Best Of Country
Luke Bryan is on a roll so don’t even try to stop him. Hit after hit once again and now it will be only a matter of weeks before his new “I See You” (Capitol Nashville) can be added to the long list. Toby Keith is getting a lot of love from our panel of music and program directors. They are all over his new “Drunk Americans” (Show Dog/Universal) and for good reason as its Toby Keith at his very best. Blake Shelton has pared up with recording artist Ashley Monroe and that move appears to be pure magic. “Lonely Tonight” (WB/WEA) is the duet that could be another #1 single for Blake.
Garth Brooks as we all know is back with a new album and tour. Many of our reporters are starting to spin the track called “Mom” (Sony Music Nashville) and the phones are going crazy. It seems that this one is an instant fan favorite. Florida Georgia Line seem to be as hot as ever. Their new “Sun Daze” (Republic Nashville) is just another reason to keep them in a power rotation. Newcomer Kelsea Ballerini is basking in good fortune to be sure. The single “Love Me Like You Mean It” (Black River) keeps pulling in the adds and spins and that’s the sign we are all looking for. Watch for some big things ahead for this artist who is truly on the rise and you heard about that first right here.
Jason Aldean is about as hot as any Country artist on the planet these days. He’s pulled another gem out from under his hat in “Just Gettin’ Started” (Broken Bow/Sony) & is this ever a good strong cut. I also really love that new Chase Rice single. “Gonna Wanna Tonight” (Sony Nashville) is the one with the magic and our reporters feel that very same way. Jon Pardi has a good thing going at Country radio and make no mistake about that. “When I’ve Been Drinkin’” (Capitol Nashville) is the track that keeps winning converts into his court. Be on alert that this could be another #1 single from this very talented artist.
Dustin Lynch is rocking Country strong with “Hell Of A Night” (Broken Bow). Watch for some bigger weeks ahead for this masterpiece. Jo Dee Messina is back at the format and getting lots of praise for her new “He’s Messed Up” (Dreambound) single. I’m really loving the new Billy Currington single entitled “Don’t It” (Mercury Nashville). Recording artist Faron Young is getting lots of praise and attention for the single “I Just Came To Get My Baby” (Country Rewind/Pretty World). You may want to consider some spin action on your list if you are not already on board.
Kenny Chesney is pulling no punches as his new “Till Its Gone” (Blue Chair/Columbia Nashville) as it explodes at the format. Carrie Underwood is as hot as any Country gal can be. She shows off her stuff once more with the brilliant “Something In The Water” (19 Recordings Limited/Arista Nashville). Easton Corbin has a solid gem on his hands at Country radio. The new “Baby Be My love Song” (Mercury Nashville) reminds us why this guy has a slot on Country radio. Matt Farris is back with a new single and so far so good for the track “She’s Done” (Skytone). This one may be worth your time and attention.
It’s time for those holiday songs and so the Wagonmasters are bringing you the new and delightful “Christmas Is Coming” (Bal). This is also our look at the very best for 2014. Nobody had a better debut than newcomer Ariana Hodes. Her “Brand New Key” from the Ocala Records/Big Round Music Group proved to be a great door opener. Meg Records also had a banner year thanks to masterful work of Tom MacLear. Check the Country section of this issue for something special regarding Meg Records and Tom.
Can you believe that CRS is just around the corner? New Music Weekly will be on sight for this annual event so book your interviews as soon as you can. I hope you have a great and special Christmas and even better New Year. More from me next time right here.