Ladies and gentlemen, cowboys and cowgirls, the ranking of new country songs released this week has been completed. I have tormented myself making this list, there's just so much good music all the damn time.
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Before you dive into the latest bangers, I just wanted to let you know that you can always reach out to me if you'd like to highlight a new release you think may slip under my radar. I'm always scouring the internet for new releases, and want to listen to as many songs as I can for this list.
As always, our Spotify playlist has been updated with these five new songs. If you want a playlist of the best new songs to hit country music, make sure to check it out and save it.
Now, let's bless your ears.
1. Southern Lover
"Southern Lover" by Joey Myron, I think may be the song of the summer, and we're only in April.
I've gone on record extensively about my love for Joey Myron. His previous release, "Watch Me Burn," took the top spot on the very first of my weekly rankings. I was incredibly critical of this placement, as I don't want to come across as a sponsor or anything, but I couldn't justify it not taking the top spot.
"Southern Lover" is an effortlessly suave tune that blends smooth storytelling with smoother vibes.
2. HOME
Where do I begin with "HOME" by the Ian Abel Band?
It's a beautiful song that ramps up into a powerful performance that stuns me every time I listen to it. I must urge you to listen to the song in full, it hits hard. With every listen, I connect deeper to it and stop what I'm doing just to appreciate what I'm hearing.
It's what I'd call a 'proper' country tune. It's bold, it tells a raw story, and would absolutely kill live.
3. Don't Let Go
"Don't Let Me Go (Hold Me Close)" by Tanner Usrey is a slow song that I didn't expect to grow on me.
Not only is the song delivered with stellar vocals, but there is genuine grief and emotion with every word. I feel this song, even if I can't relate to it, which isn't something every artist can achieve.
It's another song that would be a blessing to listen to live.
4. Whiskey Does
"Whiskey Does" by The Kentucky Gentlemen also marks their second appearance on the weekly rankings. They previously took the top spot of my second-ever list with "Made For Movin' On."
Their latest entry takes their iconic vocals and tempers them into a more rebellious tune. It's a track I can't help but tap my feet to. It's fun, upbeat, and an overall banger.
5. Moves Like Mexico
"Moves Like Mexico" by Sammy Arriaga is a throwback to the more classical side of country.
Sammy Arriaga has also appeared on one of my lists before, with "Left My Heart In Texas." With this new release, however, he's not lamenting a love lost, but treading the familiar road of 'there's a hot girl dancing over there.'
It's a twangy song that'll be relatable to many out there. I think I could listen to him sing all day.
Quick Spotlight
It doesn't escape me that three of the artists above have been featured in previous weekly rankings. Although I stand by this week's ranking, I don't want to play favorites. So I thought to provide a quick shout-out to other contenders for this week's list that didn't make the cut due to repeat appearances.
In no particular order:
- "My Crazy" by Ashley Ryan.
- "Life Behind Bars" by The Vandoliers.
- "Painkiller" by Laura Bryna.
Check them out too, they're awesome.
Best Album - Love And A Heartbreak
Love And A Heartbreak by Hayden Coffman, I believe, is the best new album to be released this week. It's got rock, it's got country, and it's got a whole lotta heart (break).
Hayden Coffman, who's had a wholesome and refreshing rise to fame, has put his best foot forward with the 11-track album.
I think my favorite song from the LP is "Hate The Beer," although "Don't Come With A Label" has been sitting in my head. Make sure to check the album out before he becomes too famous, for bragging rights.
Well, I'll see you all next week! God, I love this job.
