Eric Church is back to his winning ways. He’s getting praise from programmers and music directors for his new single entitled “Like A Wrecking Ball” (EMI Nashville). Also having a solid run over the past week weeks is Jason Aldean. Many of our reporters can’t seem to get enough of his new “Tonight Looks Good On You” (Broken Bow). It’s actually one of his best to date if that can be possible. Mo Pitney has also been getting a lot of love from the format. “Country” (Curb) is the single that is making it all happen for Mo and watch for some breakout weeks ahead for this gem in the coming weeks.

The Eli Young Band has a good thing going and make no mistake about that. “Turn It On” (Universal Republic) is their latest masterpiece. Please make sure to add this one to your list and you’ll be glad you did. Eric Lee Beddingfield is also getting some big action from many of our music and program directors. They just can’t seem to get enough of his new “I Just Wanna Play” (Rebel Dawg). I have to admit that I’m really loving this track too.

Lady Antebellum are on fire and there is no stopping this vocal powerhouse. “Long Stretch Of Love” (Capitol Nashville) is their latest and once again it showcases their talents as they move past the rest of the pack. Dan & Shay are building their fortunes station by station. “Nothin’ Like You” (WB/WEA) is their latest offering and this one deserves your immediate attention. You won’t find two nicer kids than these two raising stars. It’s great to see that Joe Nichols is alive and well. “Hard To Be Cool” (Red Bow/Sony) is his latest and what a great song this is. We wish him the best as he moves up Country charts from coast to coast.  Joe is also one of our favorites at New Music Weekly and our stations love him.

Carrie Underwood is back with another masterpiece. “Little Toy Guns” (19 Recordings Limited/Arista Nashville) is the gem we are talking about. The  powers that be over at American Idol are watching this one closely.  Kip Moore continues his winning ways. This time out he’s pushing his new “I’m To Blame” (MCA Nashville) and it’s paying off big time for Kip. Brad Paisley is on the move with his new “Crushin’ It” (Arista Nashville). Our good pal Kenny Chesney is rocking strong with his latest in “Wild Child” (Blue Chair/Columbia Nashville). It’s set to become another #1 for this Country icon.

Rising star Eileen Carey is on the move with “Sweet Love” (RolleyCstr Music). We caught up with her at CRS and had a real nice chat. I hope to be sharing more about her in the next few issues.  Tom MacLear now  joined by his Friends are on the move with “If I Ain’t Broke” (Meg). We also caught up with this recent NMW “winner” and what a super guy he is. Pat Waters is making friends in all the right places. His “Crazy That Way” (Big Valley Agency) is just what the doctor ordered.

Tim McGraw has teamed up with Catherine Dunn for a winning combination in “Diamond Rings And Barstools” (Big Machine/Universal). Watch for some quick moves ahead to #1 for this monster smash hit single. Bobby Wills is on the move with “Never Didn’t Love You” (Willing Nashville). Matt Farris and his “She’s Done” (Skytone) appears to be getting some strong support. Jill & Julia are also getting some love at the format thanks to their new “Cursed” (Lamon) single. Sam Austin is also rocking strong with “It Looks Like Rain” (Plateau).

We had such a blast at CRS 2015 that everyone here is still recovering. In this issue we also honor the award “winners” for this year’s New Music Weekly Awards. I’d like to extend my personal congratulations to all of the winners and nominees. We’ll see you back here next time and thanks for all your kind words and messages.