Following the announcement of this year’s nominees for the 37th annual MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank, we take a closer look at the Song of the Year category.
The nominees honor Nashville writers and publishers on the craft of country songwriting, not necessarily chart performance, during the eligibility period of June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025.
This year’s winners will be announced online on all MusicRow platforms on Wednesday, Sept. 3.
Click here to see the full list of MusicRow Awards nominees.
Winners are determined solely by MusicRow Magazine subscribers. Voting is now open and closes on Aug. 15 at 5:00 p.m. To receive a ballot to vote in the MusicRow Awards, become a MusicRow subscriber here.
“Baggage”
Serving as the current single off her Patterns album, Kelsea Ballerini’s “Baggage” unpacks bringing old emotional weight into a new relationship, and learning to accept it. Penned by Ballerini with Alysa Vanderheym, Jessie Jo Dillon, Hillary Lindsey and Karen Fairchild, the track builds up with momentum about letting go past love to make room for a new relationship. “Clear out a drawer, clear out a shelf, I wouldn’t want to do it with anybody else,” Ballerini sings. “Everything that’s heavy, I check it at the door, Kind of feel like I don’t need it anymore.” As the beat picks up through the chorus, Ballerini ends her messaging with, “I got baggage, but I’m movin’ in.” The tune has had heavy streaming numbers since its release and is currently climbing up the radio chart, proving to be a fan favorite as well as a commercial hit.
“Don’t Mind If I Do”
Riley Green continues to garner success with his solo-penned tracks, including his duet with Ella Langley “Don’t Mind If I Do,” the title track of his latest studio album. The tune starts with Green assessing the progress he’s made since his breakup. “I’ve been doing better, I hardly ever think of you, lately,” he sings. But the moving on isn’t all that easy—as random moments of missing her pop into his mind. “When you cross my mind, I start missing you, like crazy. I try to numb the pain, but there ain’t no damn way. I end up in that place and I’m just one whiskey away.” Langley then chimes in, echoing the sentiment, both not minding if they miss each other.
“I Never Lie”
Breakout act Zach Top released his debut album Cold Beer & Country Music last year, filled with both feel-good and solid country tracks. “I Never Lie” is a standout from the project, eventually becoming Top’s first No. 1 radio single. Co-penned by Top, Carson Chamberlain and Tim Nichols, the tune opens up with Top seeing an old flame and commenting how they look as good as ever. “Well, it’s been some time, You still look like an angel, I heard you’re doin’ fine,” he shares initially. As the tune continues, it’s clear that Top isn’t telling the whole truth about how he’s doing. “Oh, and I ain’t been lonely since you said goodbye. I wish I could say I miss you, but you know I never lie.”
“Indigo”
First gaining traction on TikTok, Sam Barber and Avery Anna’s “Indigo” has taken on a life of its own off the app. Written by Barber, Anna and Andy Sheridan, the track starts off with Barber talking to someone from his past, sharing that his leaving left him colorless. “I used to shine bright like gold, Now I’m all indigo. My colors are darker and cold, I think it’s time that I went home,” Barber sings with Anna’s evocative vocals in the background. As the track goes on, the two wind down the dark path to feeling numb, and wondering what can save them. “And the light fades away from my face, And the tears fall like rain. So I turn my words all into faith, Hope it’s me that they save.”
“The Fall”
“The Fall” recorded by Cody Johnson is the latest in his collection of outside cuts. Written by Bobby Pinson, Jeremy Stover and Ray Fulcher, Johnson’s current radio single is an exploration of the ups and downs of life, sharing the universal truth that even a bad ending can be worth the good that happened leading up to it. “I’ve been good time drunk enough to be bad time sober. Broke a map dot’s heart when it disappeared over my shoulder,” Johnson admits. As the song builds to the chorus, he shares the powerful message, “The ride was worth the fall. The fall was worth the smiles. The smiles were worth the tears,” showing that some hard things are worth it in the end.
“Weren’t For The Wind”
Coming off a breakout year, Ella Langley has put herself on the map with her songwriting and artistry, particularly showcased in “Weren’t For The Wind.” Co-penned with Johnny Clawson and Joybeth Taylor, the song has Langley taking an introspective look at her habits, past relationships and promises broken. “I wouldn’t paint me as a heartbreaker, But I’ve said a few goodbyes, I’d make a promise but I know later, I’m bound to change my mind,” Langley sings. She admits how, like a tumbleweed, she follows the direction of the wind, even if it means never being able to settle down with someone she loves. “Maybe I’d settle down, dig in some roots, Find me a farmhouse, find me you. Maybe I wouldn’t be already gone again, If it weren’t for the wind.”
BREAKING: Kinkead Entertainment Agency Elevates Julie Devereux & Greg Scott
/by Madison HahnenPhoto: Courtesy of The Kinkead Entertainment Agency
For the celebration of their 10th anniversary as a full-service booking agency, The Kinkead Entertainment Agency has promoted Julie Devereux to CEO and Greg Scott to President of the agency.
Devereux utilizes her advertising and management expertise at the agency, having lead campaigns for mega brands Pepsi and Taco Bell, as well as management clients Tracy Nelson and Sammy Kershaw. At Kinkead, she helms overall development of the agency including film and television opportunities for the roster. Her previous career stops include companies in Dallas, Los Angeles and Nashville.
Scott holds a dual degree in music business and production, and has over 20 years of live touring experience as an artist, as well as is Co-Owner of his own record label under the Sony umbrella. Scott has been with Kinkead since its 2015 inception, and has spearheaded the company’s growth. In his new role, he will lead all live performance bookings for the agency and oversee key signings and development.
Founded by Bob Kinkead in 2015, Kinkead Entertainment has booked more than 7500 concerts nationwide since its inception. The agency’s current roster includes Lorrie Morgan, T Graham Brown, Exile, Canaan Smith, Chevel Shepherd, Cowboy Troy, Craig Campbell, Emerson Drive, Jamie O’Neal, Jerrod Niemann, Josh Gracin, Love and Theft, Skip Ewing, Taylor Hicks, Ty Herndon, Bill Engvall, Cliff Cash, Frankie Moreno, Lance Burton, Broadways Rock of Ages Band, Ranch Hands Cowboylesque, Alli Walker, Bay Simpson, BoomTown Saints, Britnee Kellogg, Casey Chesnutt, CJ Solar, Flat River Band, Hannah Ellis, Jacquie Roar, Kaylee Rose, Levi Hummon, Lewis Brice, MAYCE, Presley & Taylor, William Michael Morgan, The Band Light, New Hollow and more.
“We are proud to represent country music icons, as well as brand new emerging talent who have joined our exclusive roster here at The Kinkead Entertainment Agency,” shares Bob Kinkead, Co-CEO of The Kinkead Entertainment Agency.
Benny Brown Acquires Wide Open Music Publishing, Forms North Chapel Music
/by Lorie HollabaughPictured (L-R, back row): North Chapel Music’s Jason Sellers and Wendy Buckner. (L-R, front row): North Chapel Music’s Benny Brown and Paul Compton. Photo: Courtesy of North Chapel Music
Music industry veteran Benny Brown has acquired Wide Open Music Publishing and launched a new publishing venture, North Chapel Music.
North Chapel Music is now home to Wide Open Music’s entire song catalog, including Billboard No. 1 hits such as Brett Young’s RIAA Diamond-certified “In Case You Didn’t Know,” Matt Stell’s double-Platinum “Prayed For You,” and George Birge’s recent chart-topper, “Cowboy Songs,” as well as Birge’s Mediabase country No. 1 “Mind On You.”
Brown has signed five new writers to publishing deals with North Chapel Music: genre-blending country artist Matt Cooper, modern country traditionalist Spencer Hatcher, Hatcher’s brother and bandmate Connor Hatcher, hit country songwriter Jason Sellers, and Runaway June founding member Jennifer Wayne.
Former Wide Open Music executive Paul Compton has been tapped to serve as Executive Vice President for North Chapel Music. In his new role, Compton will be responsible for all day-to-day creative and administrative management duties. With more than 30 years of publishing experience, Compton founded the companies Music Highway Writer Services and The Songwriter Agency.
“I’m grateful to Benny for entrusting me to lead his vision of the newly formed North Chapel Music,” says Compton. “With our growing roster of established writers and developing artist writers, North Chapel will serve as a direct source of music and artistry for Benny’s QHMG record labels, as well as servicing career-elevating music and talent for the global music market.”
In addition to signing Jason Sellers as a songwriter, Brown has appointed him as North Chapel Music’s Senior Creative Director. Sellers has been in music his entire life, working as a musician, vocalist and producer since he was 18. As a songwriter, he has numerous awards and No. 1s to his credit. Sellers will continue in his role as a Partner at sister company Quartz Hill Music Group.
“Since the day we launched Brown Sellers Brown, now QHMG, I suspected Benny would wanna get back deeper into publishing,” says Sellers. “He loves our artists, he loves our teams, but he LOVES great songs. And I do too. So, whether it’s writing, or broader strategy, I’m very excited to support him in this new venture.”
Brown has also appointed Wendy Buckner as Creative Director for North Chapel Music, reporting to Compton. She brings more than 20 years of experience in publishing, music and TV production, and artist management. Her most recent role has been at BSB Management, as Day-to-Day Manager for multiple artists.
North Chapel Music is now also home to Wide Open Music’s roster of writers, including Jaron Boyer, Neal Coty, Matt Gorman, Joe Hanson, Joe Haydel, Lakelin Lemmings, Tim Owens, Chris Ray, Aaron Scherz, John Stephens and Nathan Woodard.
Wide Open Music was founded in 2013 by music industry executives Steve Williams and Ash Bowers. The launch of North Chapel Music does not affect Bowers’ role as Executive Vice President at sister company QHMG.
Industry veteran Brown’s legacy includes founding BBR Music Group (including Magic Mustang Music), which is now part of BMG, and current venture Quartz Hill Music Group, which includes Quartz Hill Records, Stone Country Records and BSB Management. North Chapel Music is not part of QHMG, but rather a sister company.
CMHOFM Opens Ed Rode Photography Exhibit
/by Madison HahnenThe Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum has revealed their new photography exhibit, Writers, Pickers and Stars: The Photography of Ed Rode. The new section features photographs from Rode’s 2024 book, Songwriter Musician: Behind the Curtain with Nashville’s Iconic Storytellers and Players.
The book combines decades of stories through Rode’s photography lense, from playing snooker with John Prine, celebrating Mardi Gras in New Orleans with Brad Paisley, to traversing Tennessee with Ketch Secor and more. Inspiration for the book struck Rode after taking a photo of Hall of Fame member Chet Atkins in 1991.
Select photographs on display include:
– Country Music Hall of Fame member Chet Atkins in his Nashville office (1991)
– John Prine at Nashville’s Melrose Billiard Parlor (1994)
– Country Music Hall of Fame member Willie Nelson on his tour bus outside Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry House (1995)
– The Chicks at Nashville’s Westwood Studios (1999)
– Clarence “Gatemouth” Brown onstage at Atlanta’s Variety Playhouse (2005)
– Country Music Hall of Fame members Cowboy Jack Clement and Kris Kristofferson in Nashville’s Green Hills neighborhood (2011)
– Country Music Hall of Fame member Loretta Lynn on Nashville’s Music Row (2018)
– Keb’ Mo’ in his Nashville home studio (2021)
– Rhiannon Giddens at Nashville’s Noelle hotel (2023)
– Country Music Hall of Fame member Vince Gill at his Nashville home studio (2023)
The exhibit is free and will be open to the public through July 2026 in the museum’s first-floor gallery.
Chase McGill Moves Into Top Five On MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart
/by Madison HahnenChase McGill
Chase McGill has entered the top five on the MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart. His current cuts on the chart include Morgan Wallen‘s “20 Cigarettes,” “I Got Better,” “Miami” and “TN,” Tucker Wetmore’s “Brunette,” Russell Dickerson’s “Happen To Me,” George Birge’s “It Won’t Be Long,” Dierks Bentley’s “She Hates Me” and Keith Urban’s “Straight Line,” all placing him at the No. 3 spot this week.
Charlie Handsome remains in the No. 1 spot for the 11th consecutive week with “Don’t We,” “Eyes Are Closed,” “I Ain’t Comin’ Back,” “I Got Better,” “I’m The Problem,” “Just In Case,” “Kick Myself,” “Kiss Her In Front Of You,” “Miami,” “Superman,” “TN,” “What I Want” and “Where’d That Girl Go.” Wallen himself stays at No. 2 with “Don’t We,” “Eyes Are Closed,” “I Ain’t Comin’ Back,” “I Got Better,” “I’m The Problem,” “Just In Case,” “Kick Myself,” “Miami,” “Superman,” “TN,” “What I Want” and “Where’d That Girl Go.”
Blake Pendergrass (No. 4) and Ashley Gorley (No. 5) round out this week’s top five.
The weekly MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart uses algorithms based upon song activity according to airplay, digital download track sales and streams. This unique and exclusive addition to the MusicRow portfolio is the only songwriter chart of its kind.
Click here to view the full MusicRow Top Songwriter Chart.
Artist Action: Kane Brown, Russell Dickerson, White House, Tyler Rich, ‘The Christmas Ring’
/by Lauryn SinkKane Brown To Guest Star On 9-1-1 Nashville
Kane Brown will guest star on ABC’s new show, 9-1-1 Nashville. The show is currently filming and is set to premier on Oct. 9.
The show is the newest entry in ABC’s 9-1-1 franchise and will feature series regulars Chris O’Donnell, Jessica Capshaw, Kimberly Williams-Paisley, LeAnn Rimes, Hailey Kilgore, Michael Provost, Juani Feliz and Hunter McVey.
Russell Dickerson Appears On The Line Item Podcast
Russell Dickerson joined The Line Item as the first guest on the new Spotify podcast, which focuses on how streaming goes beyond numbers. With over a decade of music and singles topping over 100 million streams, in this episode, Dickerson shares how those plays have translated into real-life purchases, most notably his Chevy Blazer.
White House Hosts Country Music Bowling Night
Pictured (L-R): Chad Warrix, Deborah Allen, John Berry, Neal McCoy, Janie Fricke, T. Graham Brown, Kelly Lang, Bryan White, T.G. Sheppard. Photo: Austin Smith
The White House recently hosted the first ever Country Music Bowling Night in the Truman Bowling Alley within the White House compound. Participants included Neal McCoy, John Berry, Bryan White, T.G. Sheppard, Kelly Lang, T. Graham Brown, Janie Fricke, Halfway to Hazard’s Chad Warrix and Deborah Allen.
“I had no idea that there was a bowling alley in The White House,” says Brown. “To get invited in the first group of country music artists to bowl was awesome! It was something that memories are made of.”
Tyler Rich Releases First Children’s Book
Tyler Rich has released his first children’s book, Dogs Don’t Die. The book, and Rich’s song of the same name, was written in the wake of saying goodbye to his own dog, Abby. The text was written by Rich and illustrated by Robby F.
“This book came from one of the hardest goodbyes of my life,” says Rich. “But I wanted to create something that could bring comfort, especially to kids who are experiencing that kind of loss for the first time. Dogs give us so much joy and unconditional love — this is my way of honoring that.”
The book is available now in hardback, paperback and Kindle editions.
Jessie James Decker & Debbie Winans To Join ‘The Christmas Ring’ Cast
Jessie James Decker and Debbie Winans
Jessie James Decker and Debbie Winans will join the cast of Karen Kingsbury’s The Christmas Ring, joining previously announced actors Kelsey Grammer, Benjamin Hollingsworth and Jana Kramer. The film will be released in theaters only starting Nov. 6 via Fathom Entertainment. The book version of the story will be released on Oct. 21.
“This film is inspired by the unforgettable Christmas movies from decades ago,” Kingsbury says. “Movies like While You Were Sleeping, You’ve Got Mail, Serendipity, and Miracle on 34th Street. I love those movies. Our family watches these old Christmas films every year. I wanted to make a movie like that.”
Tiny Vinyl Launches Nationwide With Pocket-Sized Records From Top Artists
/by LB CantrellTiny Vinyl. Photo: Nathan Zucker
Tiny Vinyl, a new miniature vinyl format combining the resurgence of records with the popularity of collectible culture, will launch nationally in August 2025 with releases from some of music’s biggest names.
Tiny Vinyl. Photo: Nathan Zucker
Measuring just four inches in size, each Tiny Vinyl holds two singles—one per side—at four minutes each, and is playable on 33rpm turntables. The numbered, limited-edition discs will be available through partnerships with Target and other retailers, as well as directly from exclusive artist partners. Initial releases include Sabrina Carpenter, Chappell Roan, Rihanna, Ariana Grande, Post Malone, Lainey Wilson, Kacey Musgraves, Bruno Mars, Rolling Stones and more.
Co-founded by Neil Kohler and Jesse Mann in Nashville, Tiny Vinyl grew from Kohler’s 25-year career in toys and collectibles and a meeting with Nashville Record Pressing (NRP). “In June 2023, after a 25 year career in toys + collectibles, I was introduced to the team at Nashville Record Press (NRP),” Kohler says. “I wondered if the trend for miniatures & collectibles could be combined with the resurgence in the vinyl market.” Mann, bringing a long career in live music, joined the venture, and after months of research and testing with NRP, the first Tiny Vinyl was introduced in June 2024 with artist Daniel Donato. Early tests with Rainbow Kitten Surprise, Dexter and the Moonrocks and ERNEST helped refine the product.
Tiny Vinyl. Photo: Nathan Zucker
Neil’s background in collectibles, including work with Funko Pops, informed the format’s design and appeal. “100% playable on 33rpm turntables, Tiny Vinyls are highly covetable,” Kohler notes. “And, taking a page from Funko, each is numbered by edition, so they are highly collectible.”
Artists and labels retain complete control over track selection, artwork, and release timing, while Tiny Vinyl oversees manufacturing and assigns each release a unique “TV #” printed on the spine and etched into the disc. “This individual numbering system is key for collectors and fans,” says Mann. “Since each number is specific to the release, there is a ‘collect them all’ mentality for fans accustomed to numbered products.”
Produced from 100% bio-attributed vinyl and using roughly one-tenth the material of a standard LP, Tiny Vinyl offers a more sustainable take on physical music while tapping into the growing demand for tangible fan experiences.
Become A Subscriber To Vote In 2025 MusicRow Awards
/by LB CantrellIf you are not a MusicRow subscriber, now is a great time to join.
Only MusicRow subscribers are able to vote in the 2025 MusicRow Awards and the ballot period ends this Friday (Aug. 15). New subscribers will be sent a ballot shortly after joining.
The nominees for the 2025 MusicRow Awards can be viewed in the MusicRow Nominator.
A subscription can be purchased here and includes the following:
– Six Annual Print Issues (including the coveted annual InCharge print issue, as well as the annual Publisher, Artist Roster, MusicRow Awards, Women of Music Row and Touring/Next Big Thing issues.)
– News Emails (twice daily)
– Breaking News Alerts
– The MusicRow Weekly (containing the MusicRow CountryBreakout Radio Chart)
– Top Songwriter Chart (weekly)
– Voting Eligibility in the annual MusicRow Awards
NCVC Names Leaders Of Board Of Directors
/by Lauryn SinkThe Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp has announced the leaders of its Board of Directors.
For the 2025-2026 fiscal year, the Board will be led by Marcus Whitney, Founding Partner of Jumpstart Health Investors (JHI). The Executive Committee of the Board also includes Burke Nihill, President and CEO for the Tennessee Titans, who serves as Chair-Elect. Ken Levitan, Founder and Co-President of Vector Management, serves as Immediate Past Chair.
“We’re grateful to have such dedicated and visionary leaders serving on the NCVC Board of Directors during this pivotal time for Nashville’s hospitality industry,” shares Whitney. “Their guidance and commitment are instrumental in navigating economic headwinds while continuing to drive growth and momentum across Nashville’s tourism sector. It’s an exciting moment for our city, and I’m proud to work alongside this exceptional group as we shape the future of hospitality in Music City.”
The Board’s other Executive Committee members include Claire Tucker, Independent Director at Ford Credit Bank, as the Finance and Audit Chair, Max Goldberg, Co-Founder of Strategic Hospitality, as Sales and Marketing Chair, and Deana Ivey, President and CEO of the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp. Ellen Pryor, Director of Communications and Community Relations at Frist Art Museum, has joined the Board as Chair of the Music City Inc. foundation.
The Board of Directors includes Ian Ayre, Vice Chairman, Nashville Soccer Club, Linda Chambers, CEO and Co-Founder, Musicians Hall of Fame & Museum, Dr. Robert Fisher, Past President, Belmont University, Mark Fioravanti, President and CEO, Ryman Hospitality Properties, Becky Gardenhire, Co-Head of the Nashville office of WME, Dr. Alex Jahangir, Vice Chair and Professor, Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Associate Chief Medical Officer and Senior Vice President for Provider Network Development, Vanderbilt Health, Doug Kreulen, President and CEO, Metro Nashville Airport Authority, Leesa LeClaire, Executive Director, Greater Nashville Hospitality Association, Pat Martin, Founder and Chairman, Martin Investment Group, Howie Nuchow, Co-Head, CAA Sports, Tony Phillips, General Manager, Bobby Hotel, Shannon Sanders, Executive Director, Creative at BMI Nashville, Molly Shehan, Partner and Attorney, Milom Crow Kelly Beckett Shehan, Marc Sternagel, General Manager, Grand Hyatt, Sarah Trahern, Executive Director, CMA and Ben Weprin, Founder and CEO, AJ Capital
Hallmark & Grand Ole Opry Team On New Movie & Product Collection
/by Lorie HollabaughBrad Paisley. Photo: Conner Petersen
A Grand Ole Opry Christmas, a new, original Hallmark movie starring Nikki DeLoach and Kristoffer Polaha, is premiering this year during the Hallmark Channel’s 16th annual “Countdown to Christmas” programming event.
Production on the new holiday movie begins later this month at iconic locations including the Grand Ole Opry House, and will include familiar faces from the Opry’s star-studded cast, with featured artists to be announced at a later date.
Brad Paisley has been tapped to write the original music for A Grand Ole Opry Christmas and will also perform in the film. He will also write and record the official anthem for the network’s 2025 Countdown to Christmas on-air TV campaign.
“As the Grand Ole Opry celebrates its 100th birthday this year, this is the perfect time for us to partner with this beloved, iconic American institution and create Christmas magic together,” says Darren Abbott, Chief Brand Officer, Hallmark. “Nikki and Kris are fan favorites and we know they will beautifully bring to life this emotional and heartfelt story that is sure to become an instant classic. Having the incredibly talented Brad Paisley write and perform original music for the movie is what Christmas dreams are made of. And we’re equally excited to have him write and record an original song that will be the soundtrack of our on-air campaign throughout the season.”
“The Hallmark Channel to me is a major part of finding the joy and the spirit of the holidays,” adds Paisley. “We turn it on and leave it on in our house like Christmas tree lights or decorations, it’s a major part of the atmosphere for us. I loved the challenge of creating that same magic with this music by letting it take you to the same place that these movies and this world Hallmark has built. Can’t wait for you to hear what all we’ve done. Also, knowing the Opry is the setting for one of these movies is very inspiring.”
“Our goal in this milestone year is to put the Opry, its artists and the rich songwriting traditions that have made country music a global sensation in front of more people than ever before,” shares Colin Reed, Executive Chairman of Ryman Hospitality Properties, the Opry’s parent company. “Our partnership with Hallmark brings these elements to life this holiday season through a creative and uplifting take on a uniquely Nashville story.”
2025 MusicRow Awards Nominees For Song Of The Year
/by MusicRow StaffFollowing the announcement of this year’s nominees for the 37th annual MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank, we take a closer look at the Song of the Year category.
The nominees honor Nashville writers and publishers on the craft of country songwriting, not necessarily chart performance, during the eligibility period of June 1, 2024 to May 31, 2025.
This year’s winners will be announced online on all MusicRow platforms on Wednesday, Sept. 3.
Click here to see the full list of MusicRow Awards nominees.
Winners are determined solely by MusicRow Magazine subscribers. Voting is now open and closes on Aug. 15 at 5:00 p.m. To receive a ballot to vote in the MusicRow Awards, become a MusicRow subscriber here.
“Baggage”
Serving as the current single off her Patterns album, Kelsea Ballerini’s “Baggage” unpacks bringing old emotional weight into a new relationship, and learning to accept it. Penned by Ballerini with Alysa Vanderheym, Jessie Jo Dillon, Hillary Lindsey and Karen Fairchild, the track builds up with momentum about letting go past love to make room for a new relationship. “Clear out a drawer, clear out a shelf, I wouldn’t want to do it with anybody else,” Ballerini sings. “Everything that’s heavy, I check it at the door, Kind of feel like I don’t need it anymore.” As the beat picks up through the chorus, Ballerini ends her messaging with, “I got baggage, but I’m movin’ in.” The tune has had heavy streaming numbers since its release and is currently climbing up the radio chart, proving to be a fan favorite as well as a commercial hit.
“Don’t Mind If I Do”
Riley Green continues to garner success with his solo-penned tracks, including his duet with Ella Langley “Don’t Mind If I Do,” the title track of his latest studio album. The tune starts with Green assessing the progress he’s made since his breakup. “I’ve been doing better, I hardly ever think of you, lately,” he sings. But the moving on isn’t all that easy—as random moments of missing her pop into his mind. “When you cross my mind, I start missing you, like crazy. I try to numb the pain, but there ain’t no damn way. I end up in that place and I’m just one whiskey away.” Langley then chimes in, echoing the sentiment, both not minding if they miss each other.
“I Never Lie”
Breakout act Zach Top released his debut album Cold Beer & Country Music last year, filled with both feel-good and solid country tracks. “I Never Lie” is a standout from the project, eventually becoming Top’s first No. 1 radio single. Co-penned by Top, Carson Chamberlain and Tim Nichols, the tune opens up with Top seeing an old flame and commenting how they look as good as ever. “Well, it’s been some time, You still look like an angel, I heard you’re doin’ fine,” he shares initially. As the tune continues, it’s clear that Top isn’t telling the whole truth about how he’s doing. “Oh, and I ain’t been lonely since you said goodbye. I wish I could say I miss you, but you know I never lie.”
“Indigo”
First gaining traction on TikTok, Sam Barber and Avery Anna’s “Indigo” has taken on a life of its own off the app. Written by Barber, Anna and Andy Sheridan, the track starts off with Barber talking to someone from his past, sharing that his leaving left him colorless. “I used to shine bright like gold, Now I’m all indigo. My colors are darker and cold, I think it’s time that I went home,” Barber sings with Anna’s evocative vocals in the background. As the track goes on, the two wind down the dark path to feeling numb, and wondering what can save them. “And the light fades away from my face, And the tears fall like rain. So I turn my words all into faith, Hope it’s me that they save.”
“The Fall”
“The Fall” recorded by Cody Johnson is the latest in his collection of outside cuts. Written by Bobby Pinson, Jeremy Stover and Ray Fulcher, Johnson’s current radio single is an exploration of the ups and downs of life, sharing the universal truth that even a bad ending can be worth the good that happened leading up to it. “I’ve been good time drunk enough to be bad time sober. Broke a map dot’s heart when it disappeared over my shoulder,” Johnson admits. As the song builds to the chorus, he shares the powerful message, “The ride was worth the fall. The fall was worth the smiles. The smiles were worth the tears,” showing that some hard things are worth it in the end.
“Weren’t For The Wind”
Coming off a breakout year, Ella Langley has put herself on the map with her songwriting and artistry, particularly showcased in “Weren’t For The Wind.” Co-penned with Johnny Clawson and Joybeth Taylor, the song has Langley taking an introspective look at her habits, past relationships and promises broken. “I wouldn’t paint me as a heartbreaker, But I’ve said a few goodbyes, I’d make a promise but I know later, I’m bound to change my mind,” Langley sings. She admits how, like a tumbleweed, she follows the direction of the wind, even if it means never being able to settle down with someone she loves. “Maybe I’d settle down, dig in some roots, Find me a farmhouse, find me you. Maybe I wouldn’t be already gone again, If it weren’t for the wind.”