Joe Nichols is working on new music, and he tells Taste of Country he'll stay true to the truest of country sounds.

"Trying to top everything we've done," Nichols says when asked of his goal with his TBA next album. "It's important to grow on what we've done with Sunny and 75 sonically ... it's also important that we keep an element of traditional country alive."

"I think that's what distinguishes me a little bit from other people," he continues, "As long as I can stay true to that somewhat, I think it gives us a shot to be at least unique."

While Nichols admits that it can be difficult to avoid the temptation to cut music just because it will enjoy commercial success, he notes that he wants to make quality music that is country at its core. And when asked about the trajectory of his career, the 38-year-old says he was somewhat surprised by the newfound success he experienced after several years in the music business.

"This is probably the biggest success I've ever enjoyed," he shares, speaking of the releases from the 75 record. "If there was ever a formula for how to have success, I'm not it. I don't know that there's been a story written quite like mine, and I'm proud of that. It's not an everyday story, and I'm very thankful."

Nichols did not disclose a release date for the music he's working on.

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