Back country roads are becoming crowded this summer, with Jason Aldean's 'Night Train' the latest to take a girl and a fifth of something to a secret spot. The title track from this singer's most recent album stands out above many of the rest, however. It's a rare Aldean vocal showcase that uses a train to put a slightly different spin on this story.
Kenny Chesney's new single 'When I See This Bar' will draw comparisons to many a John Mellencamp song, and with good reason. The acoustic-electric mix sounds like something the Cougar may have cut years ago. There's an anthemic feel to his story of small (island) town life. But most importantly, the lyrics feel as genuine and honest as the rocker's best-known hits.
The top hits on the Top 40 Country Songs for June 2013 list resemble May's collection, but there is a big change at the top. Darius Rucker's 'Wagon Wheel' held down the No. 1 spot then, but this monthm a different fun, summertime jam is the undisputed hottest song in country music...
'Wild in Your Smile,' Dustin Lynch's third single from his self-titled debut album, is another vocal showcase for the 28-year-old Tennessee native. The song is a fan favorite, one many liked for the followup to 'She Cranks My Tractor.' As Lynch hashes out a familiar story, his confidence is both reliable and charming.
Dierks Bentley breaks from his longtime producer Brett Beavers to record his new single 'Bourbon in Kentucky.' Sonically, the song is more experimental than anything the Batman and Robin duo put together. Beavers and Bentley's best work shook like a rattlesnake or pierced deep into the veins with a heartbreaking poison capable of inducing painful flashbacks of past relationships. Few have been as successful over the past decade.
'Half Broke Horses' is a song many songwriters would be afraid to record. Jaida Dreyer's single is rooted in difficult memories. There's no mistaking the pain in her twang as she tells the story -- and it is a wonderful story. The problem with recording such songs is they often turn out brilliantly, and fans want to hear you sing them again... and again... and again. Blake Shelton knows this -- it's why his wife Miranda Lambert cut 'Over You' instead of him.
In 'Bleeding Out,' Zach Williams of the Lone Bellow sings with an urgency nearly unmatched in country music. Strip away an arrangement that builds to anthemic levels and you're still left with an unforgettably passionate performance.
Ronnie Dunn has taken to sampling new songs in progress for his fans, and from the sound of it, his latest one is a potential hit in the making.
Cassadee Pope didn't rush to release her debut single 'Wasting All These Tears' as so many reality show winners do. It's been six months since she won Season 3 of 'The Voice,' and the singer seems to have made the most of the time, as the track is a polished and unique semi-country arrangement.
'Whatever She's Got' represents a new sound -- and new look -- for David Nail. The 'Let It Rain' singer previously relied on a strong voice and bittersweet lyrics to work songs up the charts. The new track is pop-friendly and not nearly as deep.
