Nine Country Music Songs You Need To Hear This Week Feat. Brooks & Dunn, John Morgan, Pecos & The Rooftops And More!
Brooks & Dunn - Reboot II
The beauty of REBOOT II lies in its fearless genre experimentation. The album is a genre chameleon, transforming classic country anthems into modern marvels that span progressive country, gritty metal, orchestral pop, and beyond. Megan Moroney brings her signature sweet, Southern charm to “Ain't Nothing Bout You” while Mitchell Tenpenny’s heartfelt reinterpretation of “That Ain’t No Way to Go” is drenched in emotional depth. The Cadillac Three, Halestorm, Warren Zeiders, and others have boldly stepped into the ring, not just paying homage to Brooks & Dunn’s legacy but reshaping it for a new generation. Brooks & Dunn have always been trailblazers, and REBOOT II is further proof of their enduring influence and willingness to evolve. This project feels like a masterclass in collaboration, a triumphant handoff of the torch to artists who have undoubtedly been inspired by the duo’s unparalleled impact. As Ronnie Dunn put it, “You know, it’s a cool jam. It’s just not a place we would have naturally taken it.” In an industry that’s often hesitant to embrace change, Brooks & Dunn’s willingness to give full creative freedom to a roster of innovative musicians is not only refreshing but inspiring. It’s an all inclusive pleaser. REBOOT II stands as a celebration of musical diversity and a testament to the duo’s lasting imprint on country music. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime project that proves the magic of Music City is best when shared—and reimagined—with the world.
John Morgan - I Know Better
Music Row’s North Carolina son is back, and he's bringing his signature grit and wit to a new single that will grab your attention, get your toes tapping, and stick in your head long after it’s over. With North Carolina grit and vocals that slice through any crowd noise, he’s once again turning heads with his latest single, “I Know Better.” This new release is more than just a love song—it’s a revelation wrapped in melody, a personal anthem for the smitten that’ll make your heart race, your feet tap, and your mind reminisce. In true Morgan style, “I Know Better” takes familiar themes and flips them with a clever twist. John paints a picture of a man whose Friday nights used to mean hard drinks and speed-limit-shattering drives, only to discover that life has a new thrill, thanks to a certain someone. With an unforgettable hook—“now that I know you, I know better”—Morgan delivers a catchy, playful nod to the transformative power of love. John Morgan is a rare talent whose every release seems to get better. With an innate knack for blending innovation and authenticity, he’s breaking new ground while giving fans what they crave. The way he’s pushing his own boundaries, he’s got “stadium-ready” written all over him. “I Know Better” isn’t just a song—it’s a bold statement from an artist who knows exactly where he’s going, and he’s taking us along for the ride.
Taylor Austin Dye - Sick Of Me
Country music’s latest powerhouse, Taylor Austin Dye, has dropped her much-anticipated album Sick of Me, and it’s an 11-track journey through self-reflection and gritty empowerment. Known for her distinctive blend of sass, soul, and raw honesty, Taylor dives deep into personal growth and vulnerability, all while holding nothing back. Sick of Me is a bold testament to Taylor’s powerful storytelling—showcasing the kind of unfiltered lyrics and confidence that has firmly positioned her as one of the genre’s most captivating rising stars. Her blend of vulnerability with fierce determination establishes Sick of Me as not just an album but a rallying cry for those who, like Taylor, crave change. The album opener, “Sick Of Me” captures Taylor’s inner conflict with an electric energy that’s impossible to ignore. This fiery track is an anthem for anyone who’s struggled with self-doubt, with a chorus that channels a heart aching to find direction and the grit to keep moving forward. In this powerful entry point, Taylor doesn’t just sing about a journey; she takes us on it with her, showing both her cracks and her resolve in raw, unapologetic lyrics. On “Hurt My Feelings,” Taylor shifts gears, offering a vulnerable ballad that slows down the tempo while ramping up the emotion. Here, she faces her pain head-on, recounting life lessons and heartbreaks—from the well-intended but misguided advice of a parent to the sting of betrayal by a friend or lover. Taylor’s voice captures the weight of each hurt, but rather than lingering in the pain, she lets it fuel her path toward healing. This track is a poignant reminder of the power of resilience, making it a defining moment in the album’s narrative. Finally, “Nothing Yet To Burn” closes the album with an unforgettable, smoldering intensity. Taylor guides us through a life marked by roads taken and bridges burned, leaving her in a place of raw, unadorned self-reflection. While the flames of past decisions have faded, she’s left facing herself—and finding strength in the ashes. The song is a striking reminder that sometimes, we need to burn through our pasts to reveal who we really are. It’s the kind of storytelling that brings chills and leaves listeners in awe, capturing the essence of Taylor’s artistry. In Sick of Me, Taylor Austin Dye taps into the universal ache of self-doubt and the relentless drive for growth. It’s a candid, refreshing collection that peels back layers of self-perception and reinvention, resonating with fans who appreciate country music’s tradition of honesty. Taylor’s unfiltered approach and raw lyricism prove that she’s here to stay, carving out her own path in the landscape of modern country music. If you’re looking for an album that hits home and leaves you feeling seen, look no further—Sick of Me delivers.
Kevin Smiley - Hurts Worse
The country music landscape has long awaited a fresh, authentic voice to speak to a generation navigating both traditional values and modern complexities. Kevin Smiley is that voice. With his debut EP Hurts Worse, Smiley breaks onto the scene with a distinctive mix of classic country storytelling and soulful R&B inflections, bridging worlds and cultures to create something both heartfelt and innovative. Born and raised in the small town of Okeechobee, Florida, Smiley is no stranger to life’s highs and lows. As the youngest of six, he was homeschooled by his mother and grew up immersed in church music. It was during the pandemic that he found country music after his parents, wary of rap’s influence, banned it during his video game sessions. That’s when Smiley discovered George Strait’s “Amarillo By Morning,” a song that would lead him to explore the classic hits of Alan Jackson, Kenny Chesney, and Brad Paisley. Now, he channels these influences in his own work, giving his music a sound that’s both rooted in the past and distinctly his own. Hurts Worse kicks off with “Heart To Break,” a song that showcases Smiley’s seamless blend of country grit and smooth R&B rhythms. His voice carries the weight of longing and heartbreak as he sings of an old flame, drawing listeners into a flood of memories as the scent of her perfume lingers and fades. This track sets the tone for the EP with its reflective storytelling and rich, layered production. Next, “Sunshine State” offers a clever twist on heartbreak and resilience, giving a nod to Smiley’s Florida roots. In this song, he paints a vivid picture of a girl speeding out of his life while he stands under an umbrella, lamenting the rain she’s brought to his sunshine. It’s a track with humor and wit, underscoring Smiley’s knack for turning personal anecdotes into universally relatable lyrics. One of the EP’s standout tracks, "Paralyzed", tackles mental health in a way few country artists have dared. In an unfiltered, almost haunting delivery, Smiley lays bare the struggle of feeling trapped and unseen, a sentiment that resonates in today’s world where mental wellness has become a prominent topic. With raw lyrics like “I pop pills and drink while I drive” and “It feels like no one cares for me anymore,” Smiley doesn’t shy away from the hard truths. Instead, he brings them to the forefront, creating a space for listeners to connect with the weight of his words and the intensity of his experiences. Finally, the EP’s title track, “Hurts Worse,” is perhaps Smiley’s most vulnerable moment. Over a stripped-down arrangement that allows his vocals to shine, Smiley sings about the pain of leaving his hometown, the challenges of growing up, and the longing to spread his wings. In just over three minutes, he explores themes of loss, self-discovery, and resilience, making this track a powerful statement on the complexities of stepping into adulthood. Each song on Hurts Worse is a masterful blend of sounds and stories, with Smiley's voice adding a unique depth that cuts straight to the heart. As he continues to gain traction with over 20 million cumulative views, this 20-year-old is poised for a breakout year, capturing the struggles and triumphs of a new generation of country fans. With his authentic storytelling, deep-rooted country influence, and innovative style, Kevin Smiley is on the path to becoming a defining voice in modern country music.
Pecos & The Rooftops - Sweet Tumbleweed
In “Sweet Tumbleweed,” Texas rockers Pecos & The Rooftops deliver a haunting ballad that masterfully melds the worlds of country and rock into a sound that’s equal parts grit and grace. Known for their distinct sonic blend, Pecos & The Rooftops have always flirted with the edge where storytelling meets raw emotion, and “Sweet Tumbleweed” is a powerful addition to their growing discography. The track is as much about the nuances of leaving as it is about the people left behind. With evocative lyrics and rich instrumentation, Pecos Hurley’s vocals lead us through a vivid landscape of longing and resilience. It’s a sonic journey that feels both intimately familiar and refreshingly unique. Hurley’s voice – gritty yet tender – guides listeners from El Paso to Graceland to Havana, painting a picture of love that’s as fleeting as a tumbleweed in the Texas wind. “She leaves her boots out by the front door to let me know she needs a change of scene,” he croons, a line that lingers in the mind long after the song fades. This line encapsulates the restless spirit that defines the song’s heroine, a woman who leaves tokens of her presence even as she slips away. Instrumentally, “Sweet Tumbleweed” is layered with emotion, opening with plaintive piano notes that feel like the calm before a storm. They soon give way to the earthy strums of acoustic guitar, underscoring the sense of distance and drifting that defines the song. As the track unfolds, Hurley’s robust vocals take center stage, particularly in the hook, where he promises, “I don’t say goodbye when it comes time to let her go. I’ll catch you down the road, sweet tumbleweed.” There’s a quiet power in his delivery, as though he’s come to terms with the transitory nature of love and loss, yet refuses to let the memory vanish completely. The lyrics capture the essence of a love that’s untethered but unforgettable. “Hopped a train out of El Paso / Tried to follow, but she stole my keys” is a line that speaks to a relationship defined by a push and pull, a connection as fleeting as it is intense. And as the song progresses, we’re given glimpses into her journey – postcards from Durango, coffee cups from Graceland, dances learned in Havana – each memento a testament to a spirit too free to settle. “Sweet Tumbleweed” doesn’t just showcase Pecos & The Rooftops’ lyrical prowess; it solidifies their place as one of the most original voices in country-rock today. Their storytelling is both cinematic and raw, a nod to classic country’s heart while embracing the drive and edge of rock. As Hurley’s voice lingers on the final chorus, there’s a sense that we, too, have been on this journey, carried along by the song’s evocative melodies and visceral lyrics. For fans of the genre’s evolution, Pecos & The Rooftops’ “Sweet Tumbleweed” feels like an anthem for those who love to roam but always leave a piece of their heart behind. It’s an impressive addition to the band’s resume and a testament to their ability to turn heartbreak into hauntingly beautiful art. Whether she’s staying or flying away, this tumbleweed’s memory will keep rolling on.
Ashley Anne - Call Me When You Land
Ashley Anne, one of today’s most ethereal and creative voices, returns with her latest EP, Call Me When You Land—a soft, resonant collection that feels like a beautiful reverie. Anchored by her heavenly vocals, this EP takes listeners on an emotional journey through the stages of love, heartbreak, and the ache of vulnerability. Each song offers a snapshot of modern-day relationships, capturing feelings that are as complex as they are universal.
Greylan James and Cole Swindell "Things That I Can't Change"
They say never meet your heroes, but hey, rules are meant to be broken.
When it comes to country music collaborations, it’s all about chemistry—and you won’t find a better duo than Greylan James and Cole Swindell. Their new single, "Things That I Can't Change," is a striking and honest look at the mistakes we all make and the power those missteps hold in helping us grow. This is more than just a song; it’s a fearless confession and a hopeful anthem, delivered by two artists who know how to wear their hearts on their sleeves. Greylan James, a rising powerhouse in the world of country music songwriting, has built a reputation for his storytelling prowess. With tracks like this one, he shows that his artistry extends well beyond pen and paper; it’s personal, relatable, and undeniably real. When the idea of a collaboration with Cole Swindell first came up during a casual game of golf, it was one of those ideas that just felt right. Cole, who has championed Greylan’s career from the start, knew this wasn’t just any track—it was the one that could showcase the best of both artists. Written by James with fellow songwriters Jared Mullins, Rocky Block, and Brock Berryhill, "Things That I Can't Change" doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable truths we all face. It’s about the missteps, the regrets, and the unchangeable parts of our past. But instead of wallowing in guilt, this song flips the narrative: those mistakes aren’t weights; they’re stepping stones. Through Greylan's thoughtful lyrics and Swindell’s heartfelt delivery, the track is an anthem for everyone who’s learned the hard way and come out stronger for it. That message of forgiveness and resilience is woven throughout the song, reminding listeners that sometimes, the hardest part isn’t forgiving others—it’s forgiving yourself. The result is a vocal harmony that captures the emotional weight of the song and gives it wings. Whether it’s Swindell’s seasoned warmth or James’s fresh, reflective tone, the duo creates something greater than the sum of its parts. It’s a performance that could easily be a Song of the Year contender—one of those rare collaborations that feels as timeless as it is timely. For fans of Greylan James, "Things That I Can't Change" is a masterclass in lyrical honesty, delivered with a sense of vulnerability that only comes from a place of truth. And for those who’ve followed Cole Swindell’s career, it’s a reminder of why he’s one of the most enduring voices in country music today. Together, they’ve crafted a song that leaves a mark, urging listeners to reflect on their own journey and the things they, too, cannot change. But maybe, just maybe, the things we can’t change are the very things that end up changing us.
Hunter Hayes - Lost & Found
Hunter Hayes is back and better than ever with Lost & Found, a three-track EP that showcases the depth of his evolving sound. Known for his artistry as a multi-instrumentalist and singer-songwriter, Hayes revisits his fan-favorite hit “Somebody’s Heartbreak,” giving it a fresh, jazz-inflected twist and releasing a visualizer to accompany this nostalgic, revamped version. Originally featured on Hayes’ 2011 debut album, “Somebody’s Heartbreak” captured the vulnerability of love, loss, and the raw resilience needed to move forward. This new arrangement keeps the heart of the song alive, with Hayes’ signature guitar playing and poignant lyricism, but now carries a maturity and jazzy undertone that demonstrates his growth as an artist. Hayes’ vocals have never sounded better—his voice brims with confidence, threading warmth and wisdom into every note. Beyond this single, Lost & Found is a musical journey that celebrates Hayes’ evolution. The EP’s opening track, “In A Song,” is a soothing, melodic dive into finding solace in music amidst life’s inevitable heartbreaks. Its simple, catchy melody has an almost meditative quality, pulling listeners into a reflective moment from the very first notes. Hayes masterfully blends easy-going rhythm with profound lyrics, striking the universal chord of music as a safe haven. Then there’s “Still Fallin’,” a mid-tempo track that feels like a nostalgic nod to Hayes’ early career while marking a new level of intimacy in his songwriting. Hayes reflects on the enduring thrill of love—how it remains electric and awe-inspiring even as time goes on. His vocals soar effortlessly, lending the chorus a tender warmth that feels like a private conversation with his audience. It’s this authenticity and openness that continue to make Hayes a beloved figure in the music world. With Lost & Found, Hayes paints a story of transformation, bridging past and present, and giving fans a taste of what’s to come. Each track reflects Hayes’ journey, not just as a musician but as a person, with a newfound confidence that shines brilliantly through his voice.
John Driskell Hopkins
When it comes to weaving powerful messages into music, John Driskell Hopkins knows exactly how to strike the right chord. The multi-talented founding member of Zac Brown Band, known for his rich, earthy voice and honest songwriting, has just released a heartwarming new single, "Each Other". The song is a tender call to prioritize the people in our lives over life’s material distractions. Filled with sweet, soul-soothing fiddle arrangements, the song speaks to Hopkins’ deep belief that, at the end of the day, what really counts is our connection to one another. This new track doesn’t just offer another toe-tapping melody; it’s a personal philosophy set to music. Hopkins emphasizes that real wealth isn’t measured by the zeros in a bank account or the fame that comes with being in the spotlight. Instead, it’s about those moments shared with friends and family—the people we lean on, the loved ones who keep us grounded. For Hopkins, who has spent years pouring his heart into music, "Each Other" is a sincere reminder that our relationships are our truest riches. The song is structured around classic country instrumentation, with each fiddle line adding warmth and nostalgia, grounding listeners in the kind of down-to-earth wisdom that Hopkins is known for. The tune has an easy, flowing rhythm that pulls you in, and before you know it, you’re swept up in the message: no matter what life throws our way, the one thing that can always bring us back is each other. Fans of Zac Brown Band will likely find that Hopkins’ solo work brings a similar authenticity to the table. Yet, the song also stands as a unique testament to his personal outlook. Hopkins doesn’t sugarcoat life’s challenges, but he reminds us that having a shoulder to lean on—friends, family, partners—is the answer to weathering storms together. In "Each Other", Hopkins has crafted more than a song; he’s given us a mission statement. In a world that often pushes us to chase after what’s next or what’s “bigger,” Hopkins reminds us of a simple truth that so many overlook: the real measure of a life well-lived is found in the people around us. "Each Other" is a song for those who value community over competition and compassion over comparison, a stirring reminder that love and loyalty remain timeless priorities.