The 12-track yuletide album, produced by Pardi himself alongside Bart Butler and Ryan Gore, is already up for pre-add/pre-save, promising a mix of traditional tunes and Pardi’s signature country charm. This festive release coincides with a significant milestone in Pardi’s career, as he’s poised to become the first California native inducted into the revered Grand Ole Opry during the same week.

Tickets for ‘A Very Merry Christmas With Jon Pardi’ at Beacon Theatre will be available for purchase starting on October 3, through Citi Presale and Pardi Animals Fan Club. General on-sale kicks off on October 6 at 10 AM via LiveNation.com or JonPardi.com, so mark your calendars for a holiday event you won’t want to miss.

But the festive fun doesn’t stop there. Pardi is set to usher in the holiday spirit at Nashville’s beloved Opry Country Christmas shows on November 26. Returning to the Grand Ole Opry House for the third consecutive year, this performance marks Pardi’s inaugural appearance as an Opry member, making it an unforgettable event for both the artist and his fans.

Make sure to secure your tickets for the December 16 holiday show at Beacon Theatre and the Opry Country Christmas festivities. It’s going to be a country Christmas to remember!

The post Jon Pardi unwraps first-ever Christmas album & announces festive shows in New York and Nashville appeared first on Entertainment Focus.

Holder, who initially gained fame on TikTok, is proving he’s more than just a social media star. His latest single has already garnered praise from All Country News, which raved about Tayler’s ability to blend fresh sonics and captivating stories, drawing in a new wave of country music enthusiasts. Speaking about ‘Someone You Knew,’ Tayler shared, “I recently went through a breakup, and this song encapsulates the emotions I felt during that time. It’s about struggling to move on and finding solace in difficult moments. I believe this song perfectly captures those raw emotions, and I can’t wait for everyone to hear it!”

In addition to his successful singles, Tayler Holder has been gearing up for his debut US tour, where he will be opening for Dylan Scott on the ‘This Town’s Been Too Good To Us’ Tour, set to kick off this Fall. Joining him on this musical journey is fellow country singer-songwriter Matt Schuster, ensuring fans are in for a night of unforgettable performances.

Tayler Holder has seamlessly transitioned from being a social media influencer to a rising star in the country music scene. With over 30 million fans across his social media platforms, Holder has garnered immense support, marking his acceptance within the Nashville community. Reflecting on his musical journey, Tayler expressed his gratitude, stating, “I am very thankful that I have been welcomed by the Nashville Community and industry alike. I am humbled every day for the continued support, and I want to keep on bringing the best I have for the people that have championed me.”

Aside from his musical achievements, Tayler Holder has captured the hearts of millions on TikTok, where he boasts nearly 20 million followers. However, he is now channeling his energy into his music, signing with Aspen Artists and prioritizing his passion for creating soul-stirring country melodies. Produced by Andy Sheridan and co-produced by Ben Williams, and written by Ben Williams, Colin Healy, and Barrett Baber, ‘Someone You Knew’ is just a taste of what Tayler Holder has in store. The track will be part of his upcoming EP, slated for release later this year, promising fans a musical journey they won’t soon forget.

The post Tayler Holder, TikTok’s biggest Country musician, releases new song ‘Someone You Knew’ appeared first on Entertainment Focus.

We were thrilled to catch up with him recently and talk all about the album and more.

Lovely to speak to you again, Dustin, thank you for giving up your time today. Congratulations on ‘Killed the Cowboy’

Thank you very much for your kind words. I’m always looking to get better and better and it’s good to hear that we hit the mark for you.

Before we get into the album, let’s dig into a couple of things, if that’s ok? You had such a big hit with ‘Thinking ‘Bout You’ in 2022. Do you ever feel the pressure to achieve that again or do you celebrate it for the unicorn that it was?

I’m very grateful when hits like that happen and you certainly can’t plan for them. There is a pressure, for sure, and a feeling that the next single has to compete with. We’re still seeing, out on tour, a real excitement for that song and so I’m still enjoying the glow and success of it and all I can hope is that we get another one at some point.

You’re having a lot of top 10 success with ‘Stars Like Confetti’ right now. It’s quite unique promoting a song from an ‘old’ album just as you release your new one!

It is. We couldn’t ask for better timing in terms of the success of that song and us going out on the ‘Killed the Cowboy’ tour. It’s a blessing. When you put out music you never know what’s going to happen: certain songs take off right away and others take a little time and you’re waiting around some before it hits. ‘Stars….’ is a big moment in our live show so it’s great to see it take off on the radio too.

It allows us to bounce straight into this next chapter of music right on the heels of ‘Stars Like Confetti.’ I’m not sure what we will follow it with, that’s the beauty of having this little window of time in terms of allowing ‘Stars…’ to let us see which songs from ‘Killed the Cowboy’ are resonating with people the most.

I spoke to both Justin Moore and Chase Rice this year and artists like those guys are your contemporaries, the guys you came up with. They have both released great albums this year and Moore, like yourself, continues to have consistent number ones rather than being someone who exploded on the scene and then faded. Do you see yourself in that same way?

That consistency has, obviously, been a goal. I’ve always wanted to build on that early success and we’ve seen our crowds grow since day 1 for sure. The rooms continue to grow and we’ve toured with the genre’s best too so I’ve been able to take what I’ve learned from those artists and put it into our tours. With the ‘Party Mode’ tour this past year I think we’ve found our sweet spot – the right mix of songs, the show and making it very interactive for the crowds too.

Country music has lurched a little bit back toward towards what it sounded like when you released your early albums in terms the grittier, more guitar-focused sound under the guidance of artists like Stapleton, Luke Combs and Lainey Wilson. Does that suit you more as an artist?

I think the genre has moved back a little towards sounding like it did when I first started, yes. As far as the fan base goes, we’re as wide open as we’ve ever been. We have a lot of fans from different places and spaces who are exploring the genre and finding other artists that they love. We’ve integrated a little Rock music into our live shows and that seems to have brought in some new people which means we’ve had the best year of touring in a long, long time.

The initial press for the ‘Killed the Cowboy’ album found you in a very reflective and honest place with regards to your personal life. What goals did you have in setting out to make this album?

I’m just trying to figure out where I am in life right now and paying attention to the conversation that I am having with myself. This ongoing battle of wanting to be a better musician and wanting to be a better person too. It left me thinking that if I didn’t have it all figured out in my personal life, what’s wrong with me, right?

It’s been an open process and what I’ve found out is that there are a lot of people out there just like me! I’m happy with my career and I’m confirmable with writing songs and who I want to be as an artist and the success we’ve had in that side of things but there remains that question mark in my mind as to why I’m still single. Is it ok to still be single after this long? There’s pressure from friends, family and even the industry that play into those doubts and questions and this new album was just me realising those things and being willing to talk about it.

My favourite songs of yours are the ones that bring drama. So, songs like ‘Helluva Night,’ ‘To the Sky’ and ‘Seein’ Red.’ The title track has that classic ‘Dustin Lynch’ drama to it – is that what drew you to it when you first heard the song?

It definitely did. I loved the title. It was from a group of writers that I trust and I love to work with. They wrote the song with me in mind as I wasn’t it town and then they sent it my way. I knew that I wanted a big, passionate moment for the show that wasn’t so much ‘horns-up rocking’ but it would hit hard and heavy in the live set and ‘Killed the Cowboy’ captured that and is a great way to encompass the songs on this project and a way to tie everything together.

I can see the visuals for the tour – there is just so much we can do with this song and concept.

‘Blue Lights’ is another big, dramatic, classic Dustin Lynch song too. I think Jameson Rodgers might have made a mistake by giving you that song!

(laughing) I’ve made him aware of that! It’s one of my favourite songs that he has ever written. He and I write a lot together but that’s another one of those songs that came in early on in the process that I knew I wanted to record. It’s quite a unique song in both the take and and the phrasing of it. Jamo is one of the best writers in town and his singing on the demo of that song gave me a framework from which to launch off from.

Talking of collaborators. Hunter Phelps has six co-writes on this album. What is it about him and his writing that you identify with so much?

He and I are, essentially, the same guy! (laughing) We’re the same dude. We like the same things, we eat the same things and we drink the same things! He’s lucked out, found a girl and had a baby but other than that, we are the same person. He’s going to be a ‘Hall of Fame’ songwriter and I want to continue to work with him for as long as I can. I’ve been lucky that I became friends with him and worked with him before it really took off.

‘Honky Tonk Heartbreaker’ puts a massive smile on my face every time I hear it. It’s a slightly different sound for you, a little bit lighter, a little 90s around the edges. Has it made it into your live set yet because it must be a fun track to play?

You nailed it! I think the same. That was a song that emerged in a unique way. It was right in the middle of deer hunting season and Hunter and I were due to write. I called him and was, like, ‘Dude, why are we writing today?’ (laughing) It was the prettiest day and I just wanted to be out in nature, you know? But that there is the reason why we do what we do and we chase the songs! The day when we could have easily taken a pass and not put in the hard yards, ‘Honky Tonk Heartbreaker’ comes out of it and it’s ended up being one of my favourite songs on the album.

There’s a lower Broadway, Nashville feel to it and the early days of my playing the honky tonks down there. Hunter got started down there too. I was playing Legends Corner and he was up at Tootsie’s so we were on different teams at that point but that song reminds us both of what it was like when we first started.

We haven’t played it yet because I’ve been waiting for the album to come out but we have been playing it in soundcheck, so we are dialled in and ready to go with it right now and I can’t wait!

The other song that really intrigues me from this project is ‘Long Way Home’, which has another, slightly different sound, for you and you use it to close down the album too.

I wanted to finish the album in a strong way and on a very positive note. It’s quite a Country-leaning song, which I love. It came out of the first batch of songs that we recorded for the project and it kinda came down to a tie-break between some songs that I couldn’t decide which to move forward with so I sent them out to a bunch of people I trust and asked them for their feedback. ‘Long Way Home’ got the majority of the votes and I think it made sense to finish the album with it.

The first time I heard ‘Chevrolet’ I was blown away by just what a clever idea it was to rework the iconic chorus of ‘Drift Away’. Tell me about the first time you heard that song.

I was taken aback, just like you! Then my second reaction was ‘And how did this get clearance with the original writers of ‘Drift Away’?’ (laughing) Did everybody involved in the original version OK this because if they did…………it’s mine! The original writers and publishers had heard it and they were really excited by it too.

There’s great songs on every album and then there are great moments and I think ‘Chevrolet’ is both for me and my career. Then the whole thing was heightened by getting a ‘yes’ from Jelly Roll on him appearing on it as well. Jelly was rocking it at the time we were recording the song but his rocket ship hadn’t quite taken off yet in the way that it has now. So, it’s absolute great timing to have him on this song with me now. We’ve spent time with each other before and we’ve partied hard together and now ‘Chevrolet’ gives us another reason to hang out!

We last saw you over here in 2019 at the C2C festival and you rocked that arena! People are still talking about your set even four years later. Is there a chance we might see you over in Europe again in this next phase of your career?

Without a doubt! We had such a great time over there and I was blown away, top to bottom, by the fan support. I didn’t get to hang out with you guys as much as I would have liked last time so I’d love to come back and get some hang time and soak up some culture. I’d like to make a big, long trip out of it and see all the things there is to see.

We planned to come back but tours have to line up way in advance and then the pandemic hit which meant we had previous obligations and shows to fulfil that were cancelled or delayed over those two years. Coming back is on our list and is an active target and bullseye that we keep trying to aim for. The stars will align one day.

You got your pilots license fairly recently. I listen to the Bobby Bones show each day and it’s so sweet how worried he is about you being up in the air. Your Instagram is also full of golf videos again too. So, are you a better pilot or golfer?

(laughing) I couldn’t believe how worried he was either! I’m a better pilot right now, for sure, although I have been practising my golf recently. I enjoy both. One of my favourite goals to achieve is to fly a small, five seater plane down to Florida with my golf bags in the back and play a round of golf and then come back in time for dinner. What a great day that would be! Maybe I could throw my fly rod in the back too?

It’s these little one day adventures that I’d love to do more of. That’s a type of freedom I haven’t had in the past but I can achieve now that I have a pilot’s license.

Check out Dustin Lynch’s ‘Killed the Cowboy’ album – which is out right now.

The post Interview: Dustin Lynch talks inspirations & ideas behind new album ‘Killed the Cowboy’ appeared first on Entertainment Focus.

Hailed as the force “leading the charge toward real country music” by Saving Country Music, ERNEST’s latest offering showcases his versatility and artistry. The collection features nine tracks co-written by the 8-time chart-topping songwriter, including a distinctive rendition of John Mayer’s ‘Slow Dancing In A Burning Room’ infused with ERNEST’s signature “country twang and twist,” as noted by American Songwriter.

From the emotionally charged ‘What Have I Got To Lose,’ a track that stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the genre’s timeless heartbreak hits (Taste of Country), to the cleverly crafted ‘Miss That Girl,’ displaying ERNEST’s unparalleled wordplay and captivating grit (CMT), this live collection vividly illustrates ERNEST’s storytelling prowess.

ERNEST & The Fellas Unplugged Tracklist:

1. ‘This Fire (Circle Sessions)’ (Ernest Keith Smith, Rocky Block, Julian Bunetta, John Ryan)
2. ‘Wild Wild West (Circle Sessions)’ (Ernest Keith Smith, Jacob Durrett, Rafe Tenpenny)
3. ‘What Have I Got To Lose (Circle Sessions)’ (Ernest Keith Smith, Brian Kelley, Dean Dillon)
4. ‘Done At A Bar (Circle Sessions)’ (Ernest Keith Smith, Josh Thompson)
5. ‘Slow Dancing In A Burning Room (Circle Sessions)’ (John Clayton Mayer)
6. ‘Feet Wanna Run (Salvage Sessions)’ (Ernest Keith Smith, Chris LaCorte, Brad Warren, Brett Warren)
7. ‘Comfortable When I’m Crazy (Salvage Sessions)’ (Ernest Keith Smith, Rodney Clawson)
8. ‘Songs We Used To Sing (Salvage Sessions)’ (Ernest Keith Smith, Justin Ebach, Charles Kelley)
9. ‘Miss That Girl (Salvage Sessions)’ (Ernest Keith Smith, Brad Clawson, Jacob Durrett)
10. ‘Unhang The Moon (Salvage Sessions)’ (Ernest Keith Smith, Grady Block, Brad Clawson, Jacob Durrett)

Fans eager for a live experience can catch ERNEST and his band, “The Fellas,” on their upcoming fall ‘This Fire Tour.’ The tour promises a dynamic set and a sound uniquely ERNEST, with support from Jake Worthington, John Morgan, and Cody Lohden. The tour kicks off in Oxford, Ohio on October 18 and concludes with back-to-back nights at Nashville’s legendary Ryman Auditorium on November 28 and 29.

This Fire Tour Dates:

• Oct. 18 – Oxford, Ohio – Brick Street Bar ^+
• Oct. 19 – Grand Rapids, Mich. – The Intersection ^+
• Oct. 20 – Rosemont, Ill. – Joe’s Live ^+
• Oct. 21 – Indianapolis, Ind. – 8 Seconds Saloon ^+
• Oct. 26 – Chattanooga, Tenn. – The Signal *^+
• Oct. 27 – Oxford, Miss. – The Lyric *^+
• Oct. 28 – Starkville, Miss. – Rick’s Café *^+
• Nov. 2 – Columbia, S.C. – The Senate *^+
• Nov. 3 – Tampa, Fla. – Dallas Bull *^+
• Nov. 4 – Fort Myers, Fla. – The Ranch *^+
• Nov. 10 – Baton Rouge, La. – Texas Club *^+
• Nov. 16 – Athens, Ga. – Georgia Theater *^+
• Nov. 18 – Greenville, S.C. – Blind Horse Saloon *^+
• Nov. 28 – Nashville, Tenn. – Ryman Auditorium *^+
• Nov. 29 – Nashville, Tenn. – Ryman Auditorium *^+

^ with Jake Worthington

• with John Morgan
• with Cody Lohden

The post Ernest & The Fellas unveil raw ‘Unplugged’ sessions: A deep dive into his ‘Flower Shops’ era appeared first on Entertainment Focus.

Thomas Rhett, recognized as “the most reliable maker of No. 1 singles in country music” by Variety, recently earned his 21st career chart-topper with ‘Angels (Don’t Always Have Wings).’ This accomplishment inspired the surprise release of ‘Mamaw’s House,’ enriching the much-anticipated number ones collection.

Reflecting on the deep-rooted inspiration behind the track, Thomas Rhett shared, “This song describes my grandmothers and Morgan’s as well – we wanted to portray a small-town piece of paradise. Growing up, I can remember going to both of my grandmothers’ houses in South Georgia. I learned so many life lessons there about hard work, manners, and respect. This song really hits home for me, and I hope everyone feels the same.”

Morgan Wallen, equally moved by the sentimental connection, added, “I dedicate this one to not only her but to my living grandmothers as well. TR had a similar experience growing up, so I’m really glad we got to write and record this song together. Hope y’all enjoy it.”

The surprise track release comes as Thomas Rhett closed out his much-lauded HOME TEAM TOUR 23 with two sold-out shows at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. The tour, spanning 40 cities in 27 states, has electrified audiences nationwide.

Thomas Rhett’s remarkable journey, marked by 21 No. 1 singles and 15 billion streams, showcases his enduring impact on the country music scene. His latest album, ‘Where We Started’ has been hailed as a musical masterpiece, commanding the attention of fans and critics alike. You can read our review of it right here.

The post Thomas Rhett releases ’20 Number Ones’ compilation & drops new collaboration with Morgan Wallen appeared first on Entertainment Focus.

Tune in and listen to the episode in-full anytime on-demand at apple.co/_TodaysCountry

John Osborne of Brothers Osborne Tells Apple Music About Writing ‘We Ain’t Good At Breaking Up’ with Miranda Lambert

You know how it is writing with other artists. Sometimes one artist, if you’re writing for them, you’re going to have to leave your artist thing at the door, and you’re writing for them. But some artists don’t do that well, no matter how hard they try. [Miranda] was amazing. She showed up as Miranda Lambert, the co-writer, period. And she was an amazing co-writer… Co-writing is an art, and you have to be willing to compromise and listen and read the room, and she was amazing at that.

TJ Osborne of Brothers Osborne Tells Apple Music About Writing ‘We Ain’t Good At Breaking Up’ with Miranda Lambert

One o’clock rolled around, we got a little stuck, and we’re like, “Okay.” And then she’s like, “All right, we need some rosé.” And then she like… just started drinking rosé and it worked. We just started popping off some more lyrics. It was a really fun process. So when we did the demo of that, she just sang a bunch of oohs and backgrounds and made it this dreamy, almost Fleetwood Mac feeling thing. So we just thought, “Man, we have to have that.” I was like, “Miranda, do you mind coming and doing that again on the song, even though you may not have a verse or a chorus?” And she came out and killed it.

Brothers OsborneTell Apple Music About Producing ‘Younger Me’

JOHN: It was basically a demo and everyone loved it and I played all the instruments on it. And then TJ sang a vocal just sitting down with an SM7 and they’re like, “We love this, we want to put it out.” And I was like, “Okay, the MIDI drums sound like crap.”

TJ: Then everyone’s like, “Well, who are we going to cut it with?” And I’m like, “You just said you loved it. Why do we have to redo this? I don’t understand why that’s a thing.”

JOHN: Yeah. So I sent it to our drummer and then he put real drums on it and then that was it. But honestly, it’s hard to produce your own stuff because I don’t know how people act and direct at the same time.

John Osborne of Brothers Osborne Tells Apple Music About Switching Producers for Self-Titled Album

The thing is you have to find the great collaborator and Jay [Joyce], he’s an amazing collaborator. He is a genius. He is a wizard. There’s no one like him. But at the same time, we don’t want ourselves to get comfortable ever. We try to change it up on our albums. We try to do different things and what more different thing can we do than to change the captain of the ship? And after the first day, it was great. [Mike Elizondo] let us do our thing. He let us be us, and he trusted our instinct, which is great. We trusted his instinct.

TJ Osborne Tells Apple Music About Releasing Music for the First Time Since He Came Out

While, with this record, we didn’t particularly talk specifically about those topics, it really was interesting to create without any of those barriers there that were even at times of whether we knew that they were there or not. They were the whole time. And I think for me, part of the reason why I particularly really loved, not only how the music turned out, but just the process was really enjoyable. The writing songs was a lot more enjoyable. The recording was, and there was just, instead of having to steer around or be fearful of how something was going to be portrayed, I think now it was like we’ve been pretty open about who we are.

TJ Osborne of Brothers Osborne Tells Apple Music About Having Fun with Social Media

What I have found is that even just my daily routine or posting things on social media — where before I was very guarded by that, I was super fearful of letting people in — and not having that anymore, I have found myself actually having fun with that. And oddly, I feel like [I’m] connecting more with our fans in a way that it just is very natural at times where I want to do it instead of overthinking. I mean literally a litany of things. So that part has been really cool. And I think having that veil kind of down now, I feel really, more than ever, closer with our fans than we ever have been.

The post Read or Listen: Brothers Osborne talk new album, working with Miranda Lambert & connecting with fans on social media appeared first on Entertainment Focus.

The title track ‘Rebel’ serves as a powerful and proud anthem, paying homage to the spirit of counter-culture. In a world where conformity often prevails, Wilson takes an unapologetically “against the grain” approach, celebrating individuality and the courage to be different. With its infectious melodies and spirited energy ‘Rebel’ is bound to resonate with listeners looking for a musical escape that defies convention on a bombastic, Carrie Underwood-adjacent song that bangs down doors with it’s huge drums, handclaps and gang vocals.

Stepping into epic power ballad mode on ‘Strong’, Wilson showcases her vocal prowess as she delivers an uplifting message of resilience. In a world filled with challenges and obstacles, ‘Strong’ reminds us of the inner fortitude that resides within us all. Wilson’s emotive performance leaves listeners feeling empowered and ready to confront whatever life throws their way. Think Tenille Townes meets Dolly Parton here as Wilson pleads to a greater power for the strength to face the obstacles that life throws us. ‘The world’s gonna try and break me, but I know the one that makes me strong,’ she sings on a big, lighters-in-the-air ballad.

‘Rain In The Rearview’ (co-written with Jaren Johnston) sees Wilson at her most vulnerable, pouring her heart into a soul-stirring anthem. As emotions gather like a distant storm, Wilson’s soaring vocals take center stage. The song is a testament to leaving behind the wreckage of the past and embarking on a journey towards a brighter future. It’s a beautiful expression of hope and renewal, delivered with unwavering passion and what is fast becoming Wilson’s trademark vocal prowess. There’s a nice nod to Carrie Underwood with a line about knowing what ‘she’ mean’t when she said ‘Jesus take the wheel’ and the vocal comparisons are obvious when Wilson launches into the huge note on the word ‘rain’ in the chorus too.

Anne Wilson’s ability to seamlessly blend elements of Country and Christian music is nothing short of remarkable. Her lyrics are infused with themes of faith, strength, and the unwavering determination to move forward, even when faced with uncertainty. This release marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in Wilson’s career, and her enthusiasm is palpable.

In her own words, Anne Wilson shares her deep connection to these songs, which reflect the season of life she has experienced over the past year. With ‘Rebel (The Beginning)’ she invites listeners to join her on a journey filled with heart, hope, Jesus, strength, faith, and the courage to navigate uncharted waters. “I am beyond excited to share brand new music with the world!!! After writing a ton over the past several months, this is just the beginning of a journey towards the release of the next chapter,” shares Wilson. “Getting to release a song to both Country and Christian radio is beyond a dream come true for me. These songs mean so much to me and truly describe the season of life I’ve been in this past year.

Just last week, Wilson celebrated her debut single ‘My Jesus’ earning RIAA certified PLATINUM status. Her momentous week extended to making her debut award show performance at the 15th Annual ACM Honors at the historic Ryman Auditorium, joining Jordan Davis to perform ‘Buy Dirt.’

As Anne Wilson opens this new chapter, we eagerly anticipate what lies ahead. ‘Rebel’ (The Beginning)’ is a compelling introduction to her evolving musical landscape, promising a blend of heartwarming Country and inspirational Christian music that will resonate with a diverse audience. It’s an invitation to embrace the unknown and find solace and strength in the power of music.

Tracklist: 1. Rebel 2. Strong 3. Rain in the Rearview Release Date: 29th September Record Label: Universal

The post Anne Wilson ‘Rebel (The Beginning)’ EP review appeared first on Entertainment Focus.

Lynch’s journey in the country music scene took flight with breakout single ‘Cowboys and Angels’ in 2012. Since then, he has consistently headlined packed venues and shared stages with some of the genre’s biggest names, including Luke Bryan, Florida Georgia Line, Brad Paisley, and Kane Brown. His impact on the industry has been recognized through his prestigious membership in the Grand Ole Opry and garnered him high-profile nominations at the Academy of Country Music Awards, American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, iHeartRadio Music Awards, and CMT Music Awards.

‘Killed the Cowboy’ serves as a compelling follow-up to ‘Blue In The Sky,’ a record that achieved the remarkable feat of delivering the platinum-certified, six-week #1 hit, ‘Thinking ‘Bout You’ (featuring MacKenzie Porter). This track emerged as the most-played song at Country radio in 2022 and secured its place at #1 on the Mediabase charts, with an impressive #2 ranking on the Billboard Year-End Country Airplay charts. Notably, ‘Blue In The Sky’ also features the current Top 5-and-rising single ‘Stars Like Confetti,’ meaning that Lynch is now promoting a Top 5 hit from a previous album as his new body of work is released, something that is quite unique in the music industry!

Latest offering, ‘Killed the Cowboy’ rides in on a wave of big, dramatic soundscapes, setting the stage for a thrilling musical journey. The opening track, also the title track, kicks things off with a bang, delivering a powerful warning as Lynch sings, “It was supposed to be me riding away, but I’m dying in the bed she made.” The song unfolds as a slow and steady anthem, punctuated by a searing fiddle solo—a clear callback to Lynch’s classic work. It’s an impressive start that sets the bar high for the rest of the album.

‘Honky Tonk Heartbreaker’ takes a lighter approach, infusing Country Rock ‘n’ Roll vibes that are both infectious and smile-inducing. With a catchy chorus that barrels along, Lynch explores the theme of a heartbreaker with a honky-tonk heart, conjuring images of classic Blake Shelton with a touch of ’90s country. It’s a radio-ready hit with its infectious cadence. Similarly, ‘Trouble With This Truck’ continues the album’s commercial appeal with a radio-friendly vibe. The concept of a truck carrying memories of a past love is relatable, and the chorus is undeniably catchy.whilst the album plays out with ‘Long Way Home,’ the last of the trio of lighter, ’90s-inspired commercial tracks. It showcases a different side of Lynch, exuding a laid-back, sing-along style with a touch of beachy charm. This mid-tempo, melodic tune is a pleasant surprise that showcases Lynch’s versatility as it closes down ‘Killed the Cowboy’ with an almost Kenny Chesney-esque charm!

Elsewhere drama is the order of the day. ‘If I Stop Drinkin’ continues in classic Dustin Lynch style, delving into post-relationship emotions and the solace found in a drink. The song boasts a snappy, melodic chorus and signature Lynch-esque storytelling whilst ‘Blue Lights’ is a powerful, dramatic ballad that builds to a grand chorus filled with memorable lines. Lynch’s delivery keeps you engaged as he races to escape a girl’s memory. The expansive production adds to the song’s overall intensity which will be fun to see live, but he’ll need to take a deep breath before he gets to each of the action-packed choruses!

No Dustin Lynch album is complete without a little modern experimentation and nightclub-esque production vibes. ‘Only Girl in this Town’ takes a modern turn with its drumbeat and production choices. Lynch pays homage to a girl who seems to be everywhere, promising her the world on this mid-tempo, dramatic track. A well-executed guitar solo adds depth to the song too whilst ‘George Straight JR’ brings a nice blend of classic early Lynch country elements and modern R&B vibes. The chorus is reminiscent of Sam Hunt, with an upbeat and catchy cadence that leaves you feeling, like the narrator of the song, on top of the world. The mix of twangy guitar and modern production elements creates a song that’s poised for radio success should it be the one that the label choose to send out there at some point.

Speaking of radio, let’s talk ‘Chevrolet.’ A clever reworking of the chorus of Dobie Gray’s 1973 hit ‘Drift Away’ is the standout feature here. This song is all about good times, good women, and the nostalgia of dirt roads and trucks. The inclusion of zeitgeist grabbing artist Jelly Roll adds a fresh touch to this laid-back, sing-along track that makes you want to raise your glasses in the air and holler out the chorus alongside the two singers! It’s now de rigueur in the Country world of 2023 to sample or rework classic songs. Blame Cole Swindell! We wrote an article about it recently (read here if you missed it) and even Kane Brown has followed suit on his new song ‘I Can Feel It’. Lynch brings something pretty weighty to the party that might well prove to be his 10th number one once ‘Stars Like Confetti’ has got there in a few weeks.

At 38 years old Dustin Lynch was faced with some big personal questions when it came to making ‘Killed the Cowboy.’ “When I’m off the road and working on my farm, I have a lot of inner dialogue. It’s a boxing match inside of me, between living in the moment and enjoying where I am, versus what’s the best version of me five, 10, or 20 years down the road,” he explains. “What do I want to be? What do I want life to look like? Who do I want to be around? Killed The Cowboy is that back-and-forth. It’s me asking myself, ‘Am I okay? Or am I weird for not having found my person yet? And is she even out there?’ It’s interesting because alongside Chase Rice, another artist who came up through the ranks with Lynch, he has made the most mature album of his career this year. There are at least five potential hit singles on ‘Killed the Cowboy’ which is damn good going. The party boys of Country are growing up at last and whilst Lynch is not yet ready to leave the limelight and razzmatazz behind for a comfy pair of slippers just yet, he is, at least, asking himself some pertinent and soul-searching questions and using that reflection to spur on his creativity.

Tracklisting: 1. Killed the Cowboy 2. Honky Tonk Heartbreaker 3. George Strait JR 4. Chevrolet 5. If I Stop Drinkin’ 6. Only Girl in Town 7. Breaking Up Down 8. Trouble With this Truck 9. Blue Lights 10. Lonestar 11. Listen to the Radio 12. Long Way Home Record Label: BMG / Broken Bow Records Release Date: 29th September Buy ‘Killed the Cowboy’ here

This article contains an affiliate link. Purchases through this link may result in us earning a commission.

The post Dustin Lynch – ‘Killed the Cowboy’ album review appeared first on Entertainment Focus.

The video provides a tantalising preview of the upcoming documentary ‘Europe – The Movie’ which the band has been diligently crafting with producer and director Craig Hooper (known for his work with Deep Purple and Saxon) under Coolhead Productions. This documentary is slated for release in early 2024 and promises to narrate Europe’s captivating journey from their inception to present day. It will recount their meteoric rise in the mid-80s, their enduring spirit through challenging times, and their triumphant return in the new millennium, showcasing the band’s current successes.

‘Hold Your Head Up’ was recorded at Atlantis Studios in Stockholm just last month, helmed by renowned producer Klas Åhlund, known for his work with Ghost and Robyn. The track is a spirited, up-tempo rocker that carries echoes of the band’s early sound. The song was expertly mixed by Stefan Glaumann, who also worked on the band’s ‘Secret Society’ album and has contributed his talents to acts like Rammstein and Def Leppard.

Joey Tempest, the band’s frontman, shared his thoughts on the new single, saying, ‘Hold Your Head Up’ is an up-tempo, guitar-driven rocker about persevering through challenging times and the profound influence my father had on me to always give my best. It’s been six years since our last release, ‘Walk The Earth,’ recorded at Abbey Road, and we had an amazing time in the studio with producer Klas Åhlund. He ignited a fiery and passionate energy within the band, and we’re eager to perform this song on tour and incorporate it into our next album. We’re immensely proud of this track.”

Currently Europe is in the midst of their ‘Time Capsule’ 40th anniversary tour, featuring 21 concerts spanning Switzerland, Italy, Germany, Norway, Sweden, France, the Netherlands, and the UK. The tour includes two nights at the illustrious London Palladium and offers fans a career-spanning “evening with” performance, showcasing all the band’s chart-toppers along with beloved deep cuts from their extensive discography.

The Time Capsule 40th Anniversary 2023 Shows:

• September 30th: Switzerland – Lausanne, Metropole
• October 1st: Switzerland – Zurich, Volkshaus – SOLD OUT
• October 2nd: Italy – Milan, Teatro Degli Arcimboldi – SOLD OUT
• October 4th: Germany – Stuttgart, Theaterhaus – SOLD OUT
• October 5th: Germany – Munich, Circus Krone – SOLD OUT
• October 6th: Germany – Berlin, Admiralspalast
• October 8th: Norway – Oslo, Opera House – SOLD OUT
• October 9th: Sweden – Stockholm, Cirkus – SOLD OUT
• October 14th: France – Paris, Salle Pleyel – SOLD OUT
• October 15th: Netherlands – Utrecht, TivoliVredenburg – SOLD OUT
• October 17th: UK – Cardiff, St. David’s Hall
• October 18th: UK – Glasgow, Royal Concert Hall
• October 19th: UK – Gateshead, The Sage
• October 21st: UK – Wolverhampton, The Halls
• October 22nd: UK – Salford, The Lowry
• October 24th: UK – Leicester, De Montfort Hall
• October 25th: UK – London, The Palladium
• October 26th: UK – London, The Palladium
• October 30th: Sweden – Stockholm, Cirkus – SOLD OUT
• October 31st: Sweden – Stockholm, Cirkus – SOLD OUT

The post Rock legends Europe release ‘Hold Your Head Up’ ahead of 40th anniversary UK shows appeared first on Entertainment Focus.

Eagleson’s journey began with the release of his debut single, ‘Got Your Name On It’ in 2018. This single catapulted him into the spotlight as a YouTube Trending ‘Artist On The Rise,’ marking a historic moment as the first Canadian-signed artist, regardless of genre, to receive this honor. ‘Got Your Name On It’ further solidified Jade’s legacy by becoming the first debut single by a Canadian artist to achieve platinum status. Most recently Eagleson received his second JUNO nomination for Country Album of the Year, a testament to his continued growth and artistic excellence. Furthermore, he garnered five nominations for the 2023 CCMA Awards, including Entertainer of the Year, Fans’ Choice, Male Artist of the Year, Video of the Year, and Innovative Campaign of the Year, walking away as the winner of three of the awards including the coveted ‘Male Artist of the Year’ and ‘Entertainer of the Year’ too.

With a cast of stellar writers like Kelly Archer, Gordie Sampson, Jacob Davis, Ashley Gorley and Larry Fleet, ‘Do It Anyway’ was always going to be a slick, smooth and engaging project but alongside that you need some heart and a spark of something different, and Eagleson has that in spades.

The album kicks off with a quintessential traditional country track, in ‘Neon Dreaming,’ that immerses us in twangy guitars and fiddles. Eagleson’s storytelling shines as he narrates a bar room rendezvous with a girl who’s “heaven in blue jeans.” The harmonies on the chorus add depth and charm to this spirited opener and the tone is set from there.

If you like a bit of bar room honky tonk then be sure to check out songs like ‘Rodeo Queen,’ ‘Some Cowboy’ and ‘Honky Talkin’. Eagleson’s deep, baritone vocals shine on ‘Rodeo Queen’, which is an infectious, foot-stomping track that captures the allure of a free-spirited woman whilst ‘Some Cowboy’ is a lighthearted song reminding us that there’s always someone worse off than we are. With fiddles, barroom guitars, and a dose of earthy advice, it’s a feel-good track with a funky guitar solo too. ‘Honky Talkin,’ meanwhile, tells the story of a girl who’s a neon legend and, similar to the protagonist of ‘Rodeo Queen’, someone who is very free-spirited and difficult to pin down! It’s another song about chasing after a girl that might just be out of your league but you’ll get a good dance with her out of the attempt before she moves on!

Elsewhere there’s a real early Dierks Bentley feel to some of the songs on ‘Do It Anyway’ and you’ll also find some prime Brooks and Dunn influences in other places. ‘Shakin in them Boots’ unleashes a burst of energy with lively fiddle work and a hoedown atmosphere reminiscent of early Dierks Bentley. The song barrels forward with a playful spirit, highlighted by impressive guitar and banjo solos that keep the energy high on a song that will be a joy to see live whilst Eagleson’s clever wordplay in ‘Telluride’ showcases the lyrical prowess of writers John Pierce, Blake Pendergrass and Travis Wood as Eagleson advises a girl to leave a toxic relationship. Smooth melodies and an authentic Bentley-esque Country feel make this track stand out on an album packed full of impressive moments. Similarly, whilst we are in that tender, mature and wistful part of ‘Do It Anyway, we should talk about ‘That’s What Love Looks Like.’ Here the album closes on a heartfelt note, featuring a conversation between a father and son about maintaining long-term relationships. Eagleson’s bluesy vocals, fiddles, and an anthemic ’80s rock guitar solo create a memorable and insightful finale in terms of both the sonics and the heartfelt nature of the lyrics and their relatability to all our own lives.

The Brooks and Dunn style fun is delivered by the double whammy punch of the title track and ‘Coulda Fooled Me’. The former bursts into life with a blaze of fiddles and barroom guitars, building to a honky-tonk chorus that’s sure to be a hit at live shows. ‘Do It Anyway’ finds Eagleson unapologetically singing about his foibles and failings, creating an infectious anthem, whilst on ‘Coulda Fooled Me’ there’s a little more of a Texan vibe eschewed by the likes of contemporary artists such as Midland. This heartbreak song delves into the feelings of being left behind by someone who acts as though the relationship never happened. It resonates with a blend of contemporary and classic Country elements whilst all the time tugging on your heartstrings in a powerful and relatable way.

Achieving a harmonious blend of contemporary and timeless elements, this 13-track compilation delves into life’s fundamental aspects: love, family, and personal development. These values have been deeply rooted in Eagleson since his upbringing as a sixth-generation farmer. With unwavering dedication to enduring ideals, ‘Do It Anyway’ emerges as an album that seamlessly melds modern ideals with an enduring and classic soundscape. Jade Eagleson is a young artist with an old soul and a glittering career ahead.

Track List: 1. Neon Dreamin’ 2. Shakin’ in them Boots 3. Telluride 4. Still Gonna Be You (Jade’s Version) 5. A Lot In A Little Town 6. Whiskey Around It 7. Do It Anyway 8. Rodeo Queen 9. Steal My Girl 10. Some Cowboy 11. Honky Tonkin’ 12. Coulda Fooled Me 13. That’s What Love Looks Like Record Label: Umusic Release Date: 29th September Buy ‘Do It Anyway’ right now

The post Jade Eagleson – ‘Do It Anyway’ album review appeared first on Entertainment Focus.

Music festivals have become a global phenomenon, attracting thousands or even millions of attendees each year. They serve as platforms for artists to reach larger audiences and create memorable moments that transcend time and place. Some festival performances are etched in the collective memory, becoming benchmarks for excellence in live music. The C2C festival in London each March has become the most iconic Country music festival outside of the USA in the decade plus that it has been running. As we approach the announcement of the 2024 line up we thought it might be worth looking back at some iconic moments. But first, let’s spread the net wider and look at the most iconic festival moments in music history.

Woodstock (1969) – Jimi Hendrix

Jimi Hendrix’s rendition of “The Star-Spangled Banner” at Woodstock in 1969 is widely regarded as one of the most iconic moments in rock history. His electrifying and distorted interpretation of the American national anthem captured the spirit of a generation and the turbulent times. Hendrix’s performance at Woodstock not only solidified his status as a guitar virtuoso but also symbolised the countercultural movement of the 1960s and its resistance to authority. It remains a symbol of the era’s social and political upheaval.

Live Aid (1985) – Queen

Queen’s set at Live Aid in 1985, held simultaneously in London and Philadelphia, is often hailed as one of the greatest live performances in rock history. Freddie Mercury’s charismatic stage presence and the band’s flawless performance captivated the massive global audience. The performance not only raised millions of dollars for famine relief in Africa but also demonstrated the power of music to unite people across borders and cultures. The band’s set is still celebrated as a defining moment in rock and philanthropy.

Monterey Pop Festival (1967) – The Who

The Who’s performance at the Monterey Pop Festival in 1967 is remembered for its explosive finale. Pete Townshend smashed his guitar, Keith Moon kicked over his drum kit, and the stage erupted in flames. This display of raw energy became a defining moment in rock and roll history. This performance at Monterey Pop set a new standard for stage theatrics in rock music. It marked the birth of the “destructive” rock star persona and had a profound influence on subsequent generations of musicians and performers.

Coachella (2018) – Beyoncé

Beyoncé’s headlining set at Coachella 2018, often referred to as “Beychella,” was a dazzling showcase of talent, creativity, and cultural significance. It featured a marching band, dancers, a powerful message of Black empowerment, and a surprise Destiny’s Child reunion. The set redefined the possibilities of what a festival headliner could achieve. It celebrated Black culture, feminism, and the art of live performance, inspiring a new generation of artists to aim higher in terms of artistic ambition and social commentary.

C2C’s Most Iconic Moments

Drake Milligan (2023)

Everywhere this Texan honky tonker went last year a little cloud of happiness and joy went with him. Whether you saw him at his raucous Indigo set or upstairs, late at night rounding off the evening with a sweaty, frantic set in All-Bar-One you were left in no doubt as to just what a charismatic and talented performer Drake Milligan was. He left it all up on stage each time he performed and spread such a sense of fun that it would be great to see him given a chance up on the main stage next year.

Zac Brown Band (2014)

The Zac Brown Band came, they saw and they rocked the C2C festival in 2014. Taking the arena by the scruff of the neck they played a bombastic set full of iconic songs and surprise covers. Ending their main set with a cover of Metallica’s ‘Enter Sandman’ showed the London crowd just what a versatile band they were and then further covers of Led Zeppelin’s ‘Kashmir’ and Charlie Daniels’ ‘The Devil Went Down to Georgia’ meant that their headline show ended with the audience somewhat breathless and with ringing ears!

Kip Moore (2015)

Moore’s debut UK show was largely played to an audience unfamiliar with his work. Nearing the completion of second album, ‘Wild Ones’ Moore took to the stage with most of the audience (apart from us given we had owned a much-loved CD copy of ‘Up All Night’ for the previous 3-4 years) in their seats but that wasn’t the case come the end of the set. The UK took Kip Moore to their hearts based on this one set alone and his promise to sign autographs in the foyer after is still the stuff of legend and saw him stuck inside the O2 arena for a long time after most of us had gone home!

Ashley McBryde (2018)

McBryde’s presence at the C2C festival in 2018 was nothing short of messianic. Everywhere she went the crowds followed in her wake and her set at the Indigo on the Saturday afternoon is still regarded by many as ‘THE’ best moment in C2C history. Hearing songs from her (then) upcoming debut album performed with Ashley’s unique sense of style, charm and humour was an absolute privilege and we also got to hear ‘Fat and Famous’ performed on request, a song she said she was in the process of ‘retiring’ at the time.

Keith Urban (2019)

Urban made his C2C debut heading in some style in 2019. He’s an infectious performer to begin with but he attacked the main stage with a sense of intensity and verve not often seen by anyone in any genre. Playing a greatest hits set, Urban wowed the crowd with his charisma and brought the house down in terms of audience participation and engagement. A truly electric performance from an entertainer at the peak of his career.

Lets hope the 2024 line up has the same level of intensity and engagement! The line up announcement should be coming in the next few weeks.

The post Iconic festival performances and the best moments of the C2C festival so far appeared first on Entertainment Focus.

Listen to the episode in-full anytime on-demand at apple.co/_KelleighBannen

Parker McCollum Tells Apple Music About the Day He Wrote ‘Burn It Down’

I was so burnt out with writing songs. I was really done. Because, Liz Rose walked into my house that day, she’s a dear friend of mine, and she said, “Well, what are we writing today P?” And I said, “I don’t know.” I said, “I don’t even want to write today. I’m kind of over it.” And, I was pretty much done with the record at the time. And she said, “Well,” this was a true story. She said, “Don’t say that. You might write the biggest song on the record today.”

Parker McCollum Tells Apple Music About Lighting His Boots on Fire for the ‘Burn It Down’ Music Video

They really lit those boots on fire. It was a brand new pair of Luccheses. They call them the peanut butter steppers… I had to take my boots off and my socks off, and he rubbed this really cold gel concoction mixture of chemicals and stuff all over, all the way up to my knees, just covered in it, like jelly… And then, [I] put my sock over that, put the boots over that. And then, we did one shot. Off camera, there’s 10 dudes with fire extinguishers, and I had a safe word, which I think was “off” or “out” or something like that. And they, “Action,” he has the torch, lights my boots on fire. I took about 20,25 steps, one take and… it started to get pretty hot.

Parker McCollum Tells Apple Music About Struggling to Relax

I really struggle to relax. I always have to be going somewhere or doing something, and it kind of becomes unhealthy at a certain point. It’s good to take some time off, but that just kind of seemed like that’s how I always felt. No matter how many, we sell 20,000 tickets in Dallas and then have a number one song and win an award and all this stuff. And then, it’s like you’re still sitting there going, “All right, what next?”

Parker McCollum Tells Apple Music About Writing ‘High Above Water‘

I remember the day I wrote that song, I had read something about John Mayer and how he’ll write songs looking in the mirror, playing guitar and write songs looking in the mirror. And, I just so happened to where I was living at this time… I had the sliding closet doors like on your closets on the wall, like in an apartment, and all four sliding doors were big glass mirrors, floor to ceiling. And so, I stood there that day and looked in the mirror and wrote Hive Above Water in 30, 40 minutes. And, I didn’t know what I was writing about. I didn’t know what the song was about. I was just trying to be a clever, poetic songwriter and put together a good melody.

Parker McCollum Tells Apple Music About Covering Tom Petty’s ‘American Girl’ for Apple Music Sessions

Everybody sang that song forever, and it’s such a massive classic hit. And, that opening lick is so, just identifiable with everybody. I think every generation’s probably heard that song and probably knows the hook at some point or another. So, it’s just a fun song. We’ve always struggled to find covers.

The post Watch, read or listen: Parker McCollum tells Kelleigh Bannen about the fiery ‘Burn it Down’ video & his cover of a Tom Petty classic appeared first on Entertainment Focus.