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Country Songs That Embody 2020

The top country songs that embody 2020…

At last, 2020 is coming to an end. Despite how crazy this year has been, country music still prevailed, bringing us new songs, records, and even livestreams to enjoy. We thought it would be fun to take a look back at some of the songs that we think personified this year.
“F2020” – Avenue Beat
“Lowkey fuck 2020 / I don’t know about everybody else / But I think that I am kinda done / Can we just get to 2021” 
Obviously, we have to start our list off with this certified jam! The ladies killed it with this viral song, personifying exactly how we all felt midway through quarantine. Of course, regardless, it’s such a bop.
“7 Summers”- Morgan Wallen
“Back then you used to love the river / And sippin’ on a mixer with me / Does it ever make you sad to know / That was seven summers ago”
This nostalgic Morgan Wallen tune is quite possibly one of his best to date. Despite the fact that it’s about a past relationship, the song brings back memories of better days and even more innocent times. It is also super catchy and Wallen’s vocals shine on the track.
“Black Like Me”- Mickey Guyton
“It’s a hard life on easy street / Just white painted picket fences far as you can see / If you think we live in the land of the free / You should try to be black like me”
One of the most poignant country songs arguable ever, Mickey Guyton spoke her truth with this powerful song. Making the country music industry and the world pay attention to the societal issues in regards to racism and disenfranchisement, we are so happy that this song was brought to life by the incredible artist.
“I Should Probably Go to Bed” – Dan + Shay
“In a crowd of strangers and lovers / Someone told me that you were coming so / I should probably go to bed”
The irony of this song just cannot be beat. Although it was not about the pandemic, we cannot help but think that we “should probably go to bed,” when we are fatigued from the whole year. Also, the song is just plain great, so it had to make our list.
“We Were Rich”- Runaway June
“I never thought that grass was greener / On the other side of our old chain link fence / Yeah, we were rich”
Runaway June’s latest single, “We Were Rich” was one of our favorites off their last project. The song reminds us to be thankful for what we have, even when times are tough. It is the perfect reminder for us during these last few months and into 2021.
“Six Feet Apart”- Luke Combs
“But there’ll be crowds and there’ll be shows / And light after dark / Someday when we aren’t six feet apart”
Luke Combs was honestly the king of quarantine, giving fans so much new music. This particular song is lyrically-genius. He reminds us all that the world will not be like this forever, a reminder that we definitely all need.
“Be A Light”- Thomas Rhett + Friends
“In a world full of hate, be a light / When you do somebody wrong, make it right”
Finally, we leave you with this impactful song by Thomas Rhett featuring Reba McEntire, Hillary Scott, Chris Tomlin, and Keith Urban. This song is the encouragement we need in our world right now. Even in the darkest of times, there is always good in the world. If you cannot find any, be the light.

As we look forward to a better 2021, we want to thank each and every one of you who show us so much love throughout the year. We are looking forward to the new year and better days together!

Fans can join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about upcoming releases in the coming weeks.

 

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SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
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Underwood, Combs, Church, Bryan, & Rhett to Open ACM Awards Show

Exclusively announced with Billboard earlier today, the 55th Annual ACM Awards unveiled what will be an epic start to the special show. 2020 Entertainer of the Year nominees Carrie Underwood, Eric Church, Luke Combs, Thomas Rhett, and Luke Bryan, will come together to perform a medley of their greatest hits.

Additionally, the awards show announced the winners of a few early awards. Thomas Rhett takes home the award for Video of the Year with his smash hit, “Remember You Young”. While Miranda Lambert earned the award for Music Event of the Year for her collaboration on “Fooled Around and Fell In Love” along with female powerhouses Maren Morris, Ashley McBryde, Tenille Townes, Caylee Hammack, and Elle King. Hit songwriter, Hillary Lindsey received the award for Songwriter of the Year.

Previously, the awards show also confirmed the winners of the New Female and New Male Artists of the Year. Tenille Townes and Riley Green earned the accolades, and will each perform during the special show.

The rescheduled 55th annual awards show will air this Wednesday, September 16th on CBS at 8PM ET.  Hosted by superstar Keith Urban, this time performances will take place at multiple iconic venues across Nashville, including the Grand Ole Opry House, the Ryman Auditorium, and the Bluebird Cafe. This is the first time that the show will be held in Nashville in the award shows history. For a full list of performers, click here.

Although it is sure to be different, we feel that this might be the most incredible ACM Awards yet. The 2020 ACM Awards, “A Night of Heart and Hits” will be exactly what the country music community needs during these times. Make sure to gear up for the big night and set your DVR’s for 8PM ET on September 16th and follow along on Twitter as we live-tweet the show, @NYCountrySwag.

Fans can also join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about the upcoming performance announcements in the coming weeks.

To keep up with the Academy of Country Music, follow along here on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

 

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on InstagramTwitter & Facebook:

Miranda Lambert, Thomas Rhett, and Hillary Lindsey Take Home Early ACM Awards

Ahead of the 55th Annual ACM Awards set to take place this Wednesday, September 16th, three early winners were revealed.

Thomas Rhett takes home the award for Video of the Year with his smash hit, “Remember You Young”. While Miranda Lambert earned the award for Music Event of the Year for her collaboration on “Fooled Around and Fell In Love” along with female powerhouses Maren Morris, Ashley McBryde, Tenille Townes, Caylee Hammack, and Elle King. Hit songwriter, Hillary Lindsey received the award for Songwriter of the Year.

Announced earlier today (Sept. 14), The awards show also unveiled a surprise performance opening the show; each of the Entertainer of the Year nominees Carrie Underwood, Eric Church, Luke Combs, Thomas Rhett, and Luke Bryan, will come together to perform a medley of their greatest hits.

Additionally, the awards show recently announced the winners of the New Female and New Male Artists of the Year. Tenille Townes and Riley Green earned the accolades, and will each perform during the special show.

The rescheduled 55th annual awards show will air this Wednesday, September 16th on CBS at 8PM ET.  Hosted by superstar Keith Urban, this time performances will take place at multiple iconic venues across Nashville, including the Grand Ole Opry House, the Ryman Auditorium, and the Bluebird Cafe. This is the first time that the show will be held in Nashville in the award shows history. For a full list of performers, click here.

Although it is sure to be different, we feel that this might be the most incredible ACM Awards yet. The 2020 ACM Awards, “A Night of Heart and Hits” will be exactly what the country music community needs during these times. Make sure to gear up for the big night and set your DVR’s for 8PM ET on September 16th and follow along on Twitter as we live-tweet the show, @NYCountrySwag.

Fans can also join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about the upcoming performance announcements in the coming weeks.

To keep up with the Academy of Country Music, follow along here on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

 

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on InstagramTwitter & Facebook:

2020 ACM Awards: What You Need to Know

The 55th Academy of Country Music Awards is ready to take on Nashville, for the first time in its history, this Wednesday night, September 16th, for its annual show that will honor the greats of country music.

Originally slated to take place last April in Las Vegas, it was postponed until September because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Instead of having the award show in one location, it’ll now air with epic performances from three different historic iconic Nashville locations: the Grand Ole Opry House, the Ryman Auditorium, and the Bluebird Cafe.

This year a new location also means a new host. Keith Urban will be hosting for the first time following in Reba McEntire’s footsteps. Urban brought home the biggest award of the show last year, the ACM Entertainer of the Year and is a 15-time ACM Award winner.

With performances by Taylor Swift, Blake Shelton featuring Gwen Stefani, Luke Bryan, Carrie Underwood and Trisha Yearwood, there is something for every country music fan.

When are the 2020 ACM Awards: Wednesday, September 16th at 8PM – 11PM ET

Where to watch the 2020 ACM Awards: CBS, live from Nashville

WHO’S PERFORMING AT THE 2020 ACM AWARDS?

Taylor Swift
Carrie Underwood
Blake Shelton featuring Gwen Stefani
Trisha Yearwood
Jimmie Allen
Kelsea Ballerini
Gabby Barrett
Kane Brown
Luke Bryan
Eric Church
Luke Combs
Dan + Shay
Florida Georgia Line
Riley Green
Mickey Guyton
Miranda Lambert
Tim McGraw
Maren Morris
Old Dominion
Thomas Rhett featuring Jon Pardi
Tenille Townes
Morgan Wallen

WHO’S PRESENTING AT THE 2020 ACM AWARDS?

Lauren Alaina
Lily Aldridge
Clint Black & Lisa Hartman Black
Bobby Bones
CAM
Darius Rucker
Runaway June

WHO’S NOMINATED FOR 2020 ACM AWARDS?

Entertainer of the Year

Luke Bryan
Eric Church
Luke Combs
Thomas Rhett ** WINNER
Carrie Underwood ** WINNER
* For the first time ever, the ACM Entertainer of the Year award ended in a tie between Carrie Underwood and Thomas Rhett.

 

Male Entertainer of the Year

Dierks Bentley
Luke Combs ** WINNER
Thomas Rhett
Chris Stapleton
Keith Urban

 

Female Artist of the Year

Miranda Lambert
Carrie Underwood
Maren Morris ** WINNER
Kacey Musgraves
Kelsea Ballerini

 

New Male Artist of the Year

Russell Dickerson
Jordan Davis
Riley Green ** Early Winner
Cody Johnson
Morgan Wallen

 

New Female Artist of the Year

Ingrid Andress
Gabby Barrett
Lindsay Ell
Caylee Hammack
Tenille Townes ** Early Winner

 

Duo of the Year

Brooks & Dunn
Brothers Osborne
Dan + Shay** WINNER
Florida Georiga Line
Maddie & Tae

 

Group of the Year

Lady Antebellum
Little Big Town
Midland
Old Dominion ** WINNER
The High Women

 

Album of the Year

Center Point Road – Thomas Rhett
GIRL – Maren Morris
Heartache Medication – Jon Pardi
What You See Is What You Get – Luke Combs ** WINNER
Wildcard – Miranda Lambert

 

Song of the Year

10,000 Hours -Dan + Shay feat. Justin Bieber
Girl Goin Nowhere – Ashley McBryde
God’s Country – Blake Shelton
One Man Band – Old Dominion ** WINNER
Some of It – Eric Church

 

Single of the Year

God’s Country – Blake Shelton ** WINNER
One Man Band – Old Dominion
Rainbow – Kacey Musgraves
Rumor – Lee Brice
What If I Never Get Over You – Lady Antebellum

 

Music Event of the Year

10,000 Hours Dan + Shay feat. Justin Bieber
Dive Bar – Garth Brooks feat. Blake Shelton
Fooled Around and Fell In Love – Miranda Lambert feat. Maren Morris, Ashley McBryde, Tenille Townes, Caylee Hammack & Elle King ** Early Winner
Old Town Road – Lil Nas X feat. Billy Ray Cyrus
What Happens in a Small Town – Brantley Gilbert feat. Lindsay Ell

 

Songwriter of the Year

Ashley Gorley
Michael Hardy
Hilary Lindsey ** Early Winner
Shane McAnally
Josh Osborne

 

Video of the Year

10,000 Hours – Dan + Shay feat. Justin Bieber
God’s Country – Blake Shelton
One Man Band – Old Dominion
Remember You Young – Thomas Rhett ** Early Winner
Sugarcoat – Little Big Town

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Although it is sure to be different, we feel that this might be the most incredible ACM Awards yet. The 2020 ACM Awards, “A Night of Heart and Hits” will be exactly what the country music community needs during these times. Make sure to gear up for the big night and set your DVR’s for 8PM ET on September 16th and follow along on Twitter as we live-tweet the show, @NYCountrySwag.

Fans can also join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about the upcoming performance announcements in the coming weeks.

To keep up with the Academy of Country Music follow along here on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

 

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on InstagramTwitter & Facebook:

BREAKING: Taylor Swift To Perform Worldwide Premiere of “betty” at ACM Awards

Announced today (Sept. 13), Taylor Swift has been confirmed to return to the ACM Awards show stage for the worldwide premiere performance of “betty” off her latest album, Folklore. This marks Swift’s first performance from the album as well as her first ACM Awards performance in seven years.

The rescheduled 55th annual awards show will air this Wednesday, September 16th on CBS at 8PM ET.  Hosted by superstar Keith Urban, this time performances will take place at multiple iconic venues across Nashville, including the Grand Ole Opry House, the Ryman Auditorium, and the Bluebird Cafe. This is the first time that the show will be held in Nashville in the award shows history. For a full list of performers, click here.

Although it is sure to be different, we feel that this might be the most incredible ACM Awards yet. The 2020 ACM Awards, “A Night of Heart and Hits” will be exactly what the country music community needs during these times. Make sure to gear up for the big night and set your DVR’s for 8PM ET on September 16th and follow along on Twitter as we live-tweet the show, @NYCountrySwag.

Fans can also join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about the upcoming performance announcements in the coming weeks.

To keep up with the Academy of Country Music, follow along here on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

 

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on InstagramTwitter & Facebook:

NYCS First Impression: Mickey Guyton EP ‘Bridges’

Mickey Guyton Bridges

2020 has been one of the most turbulent years in history. Between a pandemic, civil unrest, and natural disasters, it seems like it’s never-ending. With all the chaos comes clarity, though, and Mickey Guyton, one of country music’s best vocalists, has used her voice in every way, which resulted in her fantastic new EP, Bridges, out today, September 11th.

The current single and project opener, “Heaven Down Here” is the perfect song for uncertain times. The track was written by Guyton, and legends Gordie Sampson, Josh Kear, and Hilary Lindsay. Guyton spends the verses speaking to God, asking him to send a little light down to Earth. It’s the kind of anthem everyone wants to hear right now.

“If you got a little love/Left in your back pocket/Rain it down like pennies/In this wishing well of tears/I know that you’re busy/But if you could hear me talking/We could use a little more heaven down here,” Guyton sings hopefully on the chorus.

The title track “Bridges” captures the feeling of hope similarly to “Heaven Down Here”, but from a different lens. Guyton is not only a talented singer and songwriter, but she is constantly using her platform to lift other women up and to speak on topics that move her.

“Gonna need more than prayers and wishes to build those bridges, bridges, bridges/It’s gonna take way more work to fix it, gotta build those bridges.”

Sonically, it feels distinctly pop country, but has Gospel undertones that make Guyton’s voice particularly shine. There are fun moments like “Rosé” and “Salt” that showcase Guyton’s effortless charm and mystique. “Rosé” is a front-porch-sipping type of track, whereas “Salt” is like a leather jacket and a red lip. Both have completely different vibes and show even more sides to who Guyton is as a person and artist.

“Two years ago, this project didn’t feel like it was even a possibility,” shares Guyton. “This EP proves that in your darkest moments, you can have your biggest breakthroughs. I think back to all of the obstacles in my life and career, including writing and recording most of this EP in quarantine during a time of social unrest, and how it has all led to the birth of this beautiful project. I hope these songs provide others with the same happiness and strength they have provided me in these uncertain times.”

“What Are You Gonna Tell Her” is an absolute show stopper of a song. The introduction is haunting; the sound of a toy piano before Guyton’s precise vocal delivery comes in. “She thinks love is love and if/You work hard, that’s enough/Skin’s just skin and it doesn’t matter,” she sings softly on the first verse. As each verse builds, her voice gets louder and stronger with more intent. “And that her friend’s older brother’s gonna keep his hands to himself/And that somebody’s gon’ believe her when she tells/But what are you gonna tell her?/When she’s wrong?” Guyton states this so plain and simple, and perhaps that’s part of what makes it so heartbreaking. Because it’s the definition of three chords and the truth.

Finally, the EP closes with the critically acclaimed “Black Like Me”, a song equally catchy and thought-provoking. Released during the start of the protests in the wake of the murder of George Floyd, Guyton tells her story of being a Black person living in America. “I’m an adult. I’m a woman going through real shit – and my life isn’t light and fluffy,” she said in a press release. “Black Like Me” covers that side of Guyton; the side that faces the truth, even when it hurts.

Mickey Guyton is one of those rare artists who you know you’re lucky to be listening to their music in real-time. She has so much to say – and she says it well. Guyton freed herself from the chains of country radio, so she could figure out exactly how to use her voice. And once she did that, nothing could hold her back anymore, as heard on Bridges. “I realize the power in truth and love, the power in your voice,” she says. “What you do with it, is up to you.”

 

Bridges Track Listing:

“Heaven Down Here”* (Mickey Guyton, Gordie Sampson, Josh Kear, Hillary Lindsey)
“Bridges”* (Mickey Guyton, Karen Kosowski, Victoria Banks, Emma-Lee)
“What Are You Gonna Tell Her?”* (Mickey Guyton, Karen Kosowski, Victoria Banks, Emma-Lee)
“Rosé”** (Mickey Guyton, Victoria Banks, Karen Kosowski)
“Salt”* (Mickey Guyton, Jesse Frasure, Cary Barlowe, Steven Lee Olsen)
“Black Like Me”+ (Mickey Guyton, Nathan Chapman, Fraser Churchill, Emma Davidson-Dillon)

*Produced by Karen Kosowski
**Produced by Karen Kosowki and Forest Whitehead
+Produced by Nathan Chapman and Forest Whitehead

NYCS Staff Picks:

  1. “What Are You Gonna Tell Her?”
  2. “Bridges”
  3. “Black Like Me”

To keep up with Mickey Guyton, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

‘Bridges’ is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

 

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on InstagramTwitter & Facebook:

Carrie Underwood, Blake Shelton and More Added to ACM Awards List of Performers

 

Just when we thought the upcoming 2020 ACM Awards show couldn’t get any better, even more superstar artists have been added to the epic line-up. Announced earlier this week, the show revealed that fans can also look forward to performances from Carrie Underwood, Trisha Yearwood, Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani.

Up for Entertainer of the Year, Carrie Underwood will take the stage from the iconic Grand Ole Opry and will honor powerhouse female Opry members with a medley of hit songs from Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Barbara Mandrell, Martina McBride, Reba McEntire and Dolly Parton.  honor trailblazing female Opry members by performing a medley of songs by Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Barbara Mandrell, Martina McBride, Reba McEntire and Dolly Parton.

Trisha Yearwood joins the show to perform her classic hit “I’ll Carry You Home” from her album Every Girl, while Shelton and Stefani will perform their current single “Happy Anywhere”.

Recently, in addition to the first leg of performers being announced, as well as the second leg, we also shared the news that two of our former Swag Sessions artists, Riley Green and Tenille Townes won their perspective ACM New Artists of the Year categories and will be performing at the special show.

On September 16th, the rescheduled 55th annual awards show will air on CBS, hosted by superstar Keith Urban. This time performances will take place at multiple iconic venues across Nashville, including the Grand Ole Opry House, the Ryman Auditorium, and the Bluebird Cafe. This marks the first time that the show will be held in Nashville in the award shows history.

Superstar artists like Eric Church, Luke Bryan, Dan + Shay, Florida Georgia Line, Kane Brown, Morgan Wallen, and Mickey Guyton were recently added to the line-up. Each will perform their hits coming live from Nashville at the world-famous Grand Ole Opry.

Church is set to play his current single “Stick That In Your Country Song”, while the boys of Florida Georgia Line will perform their latest and 17th #1, “I Love My Country”. Bryan will perform his recent hit and song of the summer, “One Margarita”. Dan + Shay will take the stage to perform “I Should Probably Go to Bed”, Brown will sing “Worldwide Beautiful”, Wallen is set to perform “Whiskey Glasses” and Guyton will perform “What Are You Gonna Tell Her?”.

In addition, previously announced artists like Kelsea Ballerini, Gabby Barrett, Maren Morris, Old Dominion, Thomas Rhett, and Jon Pardi will all perform from the Ryman Auditorium, while Jimmie Allen, Luke Combs, Miranda Lambert, and Tim McGraw will give their performances from the Bluebird Cafe. Fans can look forward to a medley of hits performed by Old Dominion, while Rhett and Pardi will sing their duet “Beer Can’t Fix.”

Of course, the ladies of the night cannot be outshined, as Ballerini will be singing her new single “Hole in the Bottle,” newly pregnant Barrett will share her smash hit, “I Hope,” and Morris will perform her new single “To Hell & Back.” Lambert is also slated to share the stage with her friends and fellow songwriters Luke Dick and Natalie Hemby, singing her mesmerizing number one hit, “Bluebird,” which is sure to be a performance to watch.

Although it is sure to be different, we feel that this might be the most incredible ACM Awards yet. The 2020 ACM Awards, “A Night of Heart and Hits” will be exactly what the Nashville community needs during these times. Make sure to gear up for the big night and set your DVR’s for 8PM ET on September 16th and follow along on Twitter as we live-tweet the show, @NYCountrySwag.

Fans can also join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about the upcoming performance announcements in the coming weeks.

To keep up with the Academy of Country Music follow along here on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

 

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on InstagramTwitter & Facebook:

FULL LIST: 2020 ACM Awards Performers Announced

 

Recently, in addition to the first leg of performers being announced, we also shared the news that two of our former Swag Sessions artists, Riley Green and Tenille Townes won their perspective ACM New Artists of the Year categories and will be performing at the special show. Now, we are excited to share that the final leg of performers has been announced.

On September 16th, the rescheduled 55th annual awards show will air on CBS, hosted by superstar Keith Urban. This time performances will take place at multiple iconic venues across Nashville, including the Grand Ole Opry House, the Ryman Auditorium, and the Bluebird Cafe. This marks the first time that the show will be held in Nashville in the award shows history.

Today, superstar artists like Eric Church, Luke Bryan, Dan + Shay, Florida Georgia Line, Kane Brown, Morgan Wallen, and Mickey Guyton were added to the line-up. Each will perform their hits coming live from Nashville at the world-famous Grand Ole Opry.

Church is set to play his current single “Stick That In Your Country Song”, while the boys of Florida Georgia Line will perform their latest and 17th #1, “I Love My Country”. Bryan will perform his recent hit and song of the summer, “One Margarita”. Dan + Shay will take the stage to perform “I Should Probably Go to Bed”, Brown will sing “Worldwide Beautiful”, Wallen is set to perform “Whiskey Glasses” and Guyton will perform “What Are You Gonna Tell Her?”.

In addition, previously announced artists like Kelsea Ballerini, Gabby Barrett, Maren Morris, Old Dominion, Thomas Rhett, and Jon Pardi will all perform from the Ryman Auditorium, while Jimmie Allen, Luke Combs, Miranda Lambert, and Tim McGraw will give their performances from the Bluebird Cafe. Fans can look forward to a medley of hits performed by Old Dominion, while Rhett and Pardi will sing their duet “Beer Can’t Fix.”

Of course, the ladies of the night cannot be outshined, as Ballerini will be singing her new single “Hole in the Bottle,” newly pregnant Barrett will share her smash hit, “I Hope,” and Morris will perform her new single “To Hell & Back.” Lambert is also slated to share the stage with her friends and fellow songwriters Luke Dick and Natalie Hemby, singing her mesmerizing number one hit, “Bluebird,” which is sure to be a performance to watch.

Although it is sure to be different, we feel that this might be the most incredible ACM Awards yet. The 2020 ACM Awards, “A Night of Heart and Hits” will be exactly what the Nashville community needs during these times. Make sure to gear up for the big night and set your DVR’s for 8PM ET on September 16th and follow along on Twitter as we live-tweet the show, @NYCountrySwag.

Fans can also join our Weekly Round-Up e-newsletter here, for the latest in country music and more news about the upcoming performance announcements in the coming weeks.

To keep up with the Academy of Country Music follow along here on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

 

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on InstagramTwitter & Facebook:

Mickey Guyton Releases Heartfelt, “Heaven Down Here”

Heaven Down Here Mickey Guyton

Mickey Guyton is one of Nashville’s up and coming female singer + songwriters making a change. Throughout the duration of 2020, Guyton has been drawing attention to different causes, and her third single of the year “Heaven Down Here” asks for prayer and a little bit more love that we are all in need of.

Written by Guyton, Gordie Sampson, Josh Kear, and Hillary Lindsey, “Heaven Down Here” asks for help for our current state of the world. It’s structured as a conversation with somebody of higher power full of prayer and glimpses of hope and love.  She sings: “If you got a little love // Left in your back pocket // Rain it down like pennies // In this wishing well of tears // I know that you’re busy // But if you could hear me talking // We could use a little more heaven down here // We could use a little more heaven down here.”

Guyton shared on her Instagram page, “I wrote ”Heaven Down Here” during our lockdown and after seeing so much hate in this world. To be hated for something you cannot control is still so unfathomable to me. I wrote this asking God that if he has any love left up there to rain it down on us because we need it. I hope you can hear my heart and I hope you can find healing in this song.”

“Heaven Down Here” follows the singer + songwriter’s “What Are You Gonna Tell Her;” a call to action song recognizing the injustices of being a woman. It also follows Guyton’s single “Black Like Me” released in the aftermath of the death of George Floyd. The songstress has been very vocal on her social media platforms encouraging change and calling on fans to do the same.

Follow Mickey Guyton on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

“Heaven Down Here” is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music on our “New Country Music” playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

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The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

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Mickey Guyton Releases Emotional Single “What Are You Gonna Tell Her?”

Mickey Guyton

“What are you gonna tell her when she figures out that all this time you built her up just so the world could let her down / Yeah what do you tell her? / What are you gonna tell her?”

That’s a question Mickey Guyton implores and beckons we question ourselves in this fast-paced environment and sometimes, a society of unequal opportunities. It’s all good when we get comfortable with what’s not supposed to be comfortable, and it’s her harsh invitation to move out of the status quo that makes this a standout song.

If you’re an avid country music fan, you probably did not miss the hype in the genre surrounding her performance at this year’s Country Radio Seminar(CRS), an annual three-day gathering of industry members across all sectors in the business to learn about best practices, career development and, for the labels— to showcase new music and their emerging young artists. Guyton took the stage at her label home’s annual #TeamUMG Luncheon at the Ryman Auditorium.

With the song having been written less than three weeks ago and unrecorded, she graced the Mother Church of Country Music and wowed an entire room of industry members to their feet with a stirring live rendition of “What Are You Gonna Tell Her.” In fact, with a stellar lineup of performances from label mates Carrie Underwood, Keith Urban, Sam Hunt and more, she was the only artist that got that roaring applause and a standing ovation. It was back in 2015, that the singer got a standing ovation for her performance of debut single “Better Than You Left Me.”

2 weeks later, today, the Texas native has released the studio cut of this vulnerable song. Still very much piano-driven and stripped down, the studio version doesn’t lose the one thing Guyton was able to convey at CRS: the emotion in her voice. With songs getting so easily overproduced sometimes, producer Karen Kosowski really nailed it in capturing the essence of her aching plea in this narrative.

“This song came from the very depths of my heart. Every word is all of our story,” shared Guyton on a social media post. She later thanked fellow writers Kosowski, Victoria Banks and Emma-Lee for going to that emotional and raw place with her, and for “pouring out [their] hearts with [her] and creating a song that represents so many. ✊🏾💜”

This song’s future on country radio is promising too, with several Program Directors and DJs requesting for the studio cut on the day of her CRS performance. Over the last two weeks, too, some started to add it to their station’s playlist, long before the song goes for official radio adds. All this is despite the fact that it is a ballad and song by women; what some may think of as ’two strikes’ and two reasons why it probably won’t work on radio — whatever that means. But with all the positive reactions and buzz surrounding this gut-wrenching tune, we at NYCountry Swag are hopeful and very optimistic about the doors it’ll knockdown. (Hey, Song Of The Year contender too, maybe?!)

Country fans, men and women alike, let’s rise up and support this tune. Show your local stations you want it. Request, tweet, download, stream. This song deserves a spot in the country charts, and needless to say, the “Best of” list at the end of 2020.

Guyton’s debut record is expected to drop this summer.

To keep up with Mickey Guyton, follow her on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

“What Are You Gonna Tell Her” is available now everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist.

—————

SHOP THE HERO COLLECTION

The Hero Collection by NYCountry Swag is inspired by the men and women of the Fire, Police and Military Departments across the country. A portion of sales from each purchase is donated to different foundations that support our heroes. We are dedicated to honoring their service and remembering their sacrifice.

—————————-

Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

+ Follow our country music adventures on InstagramTwitter & Facebook