Tim McGraw Is Back With Another Solid Gem
Tim McGraw is back with another solid gem. “Lookin’ For That Girl” (Big Machine/ Universal) should do very well as Tim and his new label seem to be making magic together. Brantley Gilbert continues to build a huge base of music fans. His new release “Bottoms Up” (Valory Music/Universal) should help to take him to even higher places. I really love the new Chris Young single. “Who I Am With You” (RCA Nashville) is just another reason to put him on the top of your list. Those Florida Georgia Line boys just keep pulling out the hits. This time out they bring us “This Is How We Roll” (Republic Nashville) and it keeps them one pace ahead of the pack. Keith Urban is not only makes waves on this year’s American Idol but his music career is also rocking strong. “Cop Car” (Capitol Nashville) is his latest and it’s fast becoming a real favorite among our music and program directors. Blake Shelton is also back with yet another smash hit. “Doin’ What She Likes” (WB/WEA) is really pulling in the phones all over radio so you may not want to be the last one on this. Jake Owen is also starting the year off in a very big way. He’s taking the single “Beachin’” (RCA Nashville) out for a spin and so far so good. We’ll see how it all plays out for Jake in the coming weeks but my guess is that this one will hit the Top5 and very soon. It’s always great to have Rascal Flatts back in the mix. We’re still raving about their little unplugged appearance a few years back at CRS. They keep the heat on just about everybody with “Rewind” (Big Machine/Universal). There should be some big numbers ahead for this excellent offering. The Eli Young Band continues to impress us in so many ways. They do it all once again in the release of “Dust” (Big Machine/Universal) that is really solid. If you get the chance to see them live you are in for a big treat. MacLear & Quinn from Meg Records that made a big splash with “Sweet Summer Days” received three New Music Award nominations. They will kick off 2014 with their new single release “Only One For Me” this week at Country Radio. Make sure you watch for this gem and give them the support they deserve. Jason Aldean keeps getting raves from his “When She Says Baby” (Broken Bow/Sony) and we love it too. George Strait is doing just fine as he continues his music history class. “I Got A Car” (MCA Nashville) is yet another gem from the great one. Thomas Rhett with his brilliant “Get Me Some Of That” (Valory Music/Universal) continues his magical ways. There are a good number of independent artists making moves on our charts. Cheryl K Warner is a familiar name in this arena and we are happy to report that her single “If You Ain’t Shootin’ From The Heart” (CKW) is off to a stellar start. Those Smokey River Boys continue their magic. This time out they are pulling in stations for “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry” (Platinum Plus) and keep your eyes and ears out for this one. Eileen Carey is back with “Let It Go” (Rolley Coaster) and that’s always a good thing. Tracy Newman keeps making bold and beautiful moves for “I Would Fly” (WHP). Gerald Smith has a good thing going and make no mistake about that. Many of our reporters are really loving the single “You Play Like Chet” (Melody Roundup Music) and for good reason. Doug Newnum & SOS Renewal has come together for some magic. “Where Would I Be” (Platinum Plus) is their latest and it’s all headed in the right direction. The label is also on our nomination list and we wish them the very best this year. A special congratulations goes out to NMA nominee Dennis Ledbetter who recently hit #1 on our Country chart with “If You Drive Me To Drinking” (Mallory Records). Nominee Michael Lynn is also having an impressive run with “Just Good Ol’ Boys” featuring Lanny McIntosh from the CMG label. Now let’s get our drink on at the Bride Bar.