Nine Country Music Songs You Need To Hear This Week Featuring Kameron Marlowe, Carter Faith, Randall King & More
Kameron Marlowe - Sad Songs For The Soul
Kameron Marlowe has delivered something truly special with Sad Songs for the Soul. It’s a record full of heartbreak, depth, and raw vulnerability. But more than that, it cements him as a voice the genre desperately craves—one that understands the importance of storytelling, melody, and above all, honesty. If country music thrives on emotion, then Marlowe is here to make sure it never runs dry.
Randall King - Neon Unplugged
West Texas native Randall King has always been a steadfast advocate for the honky-tonk sound, proudly wearing his traditional country roots like a badge of honor. As an “old soul” with a voice built for timeless storytelling, King has carved out a place for himself in today’s country music landscape. With his new release, Neon (Unplugged), the Warner Music Nashville artist takes his previous album Into the Neon and brings it back to its core, offering a raw and stripped-down take on his music. The result is an album that showcases Randall King at his finest—an artist who is as much a master of his craft as he is a champion for the roots of country music. What makes the album so captivating is its ability to transform the energetic, full-bodied tracks of Into the Neon into soulful, intimate moments. Take, for instance, When My Baby’s In Boots—originally a honky-tonk anthem that bursts with energy and charm. In its unplugged form, the song evolves into something far deeper than just a fun barroom banger. The acoustic arrangements allow King’s signature twang to shine through, and his heartfelt delivery adds a new layer of sincerity to the lyrics. What was once a fun, danceable hit becomes a love letter to country music’s working-class spirit, delivered with vulnerability and authenticity. But it’s not just the crowd-pleasers that benefit from this raw, unplugged treatment. Standout tracks like Hard to Be Humble and Right Things Right show King’s ability to transcend the genre’s boundaries. Hard to Be Humble, a track that celebrates living with authenticity, becomes even more relatable in this stripped-back format. Without the distraction of heavy instrumentation, the focus shifts entirely to King’s vocals and the song’s message—a theme of humility that resonates deeply in today’s world. The acoustic arrangement highlights every subtle inflection in King’s voice, giving the song a more reflective, introspective tone that makes the lyrics feel even more personal. Neon (Unplugged) ultimately proves that Randall King is much more than just a purveyor of honky-tonk anthems. He’s a skilled craftsman who knows how to breathe new life into his songs, giving them the space to breathe and allowing his audience to hear the heart of the music. This stripped-down approach reveals not only his vocal prowess but also his ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level. It’s clear that King is not only comfortable in his skin but that he’s ready to let his music stand on its own, raw and unrefined. In a time when many artists are veering toward overproduction and genre experimentation, Randall King remains steadfast in his devotion to real, authentic country music. Neon (Unplugged) is a testament to his commitment to the traditions of the genre, but it also showcases his undeniable talent as an artist who knows exactly what he wants to say and how he wants to say it. With this album, King proves that country music, in its truest form, is still alive and well—and as long as he’s in the game, that neon glow will never dim.
Alexandra Kay - Cupid's A Cowgirl
Alexandra Kay lassos in listeners with her major label debut, "Cupid’s A Cowgirl", a playful, up-tempo anthem that blends traditional country charm with modern-day sass. Known for her powerhouse vocals and deep appreciation for the genre’s roots, the Illinois native delivers a confident, flirtatious track that proves love, much like rodeoing, is not for the faint of heart. From the first strum, "Cupid’s A Cowgirl" crackles with energy, setting the stage for a sharp-witted, boot-stomping declaration of romance on her own terms. The song’s production is both vibrant and classic, with a toe-tapping melody that feels as much at home in a neon-lit honky-tonk as it does on country radio. Kay’s voice, which echoes the timeless greatness of legends like Patsy Cline and Dolly Parton, soars effortlessly over the spirited instrumentation, reaffirming her place as a torchbearer of country’s golden era while infusing it with her own fresh twist. Lyrically, Kay paints a vivid picture of love as a rodeo, capturing the thrill, unpredictability, and occasional heartache that come with giving one’s heart away. The clever wordplay and confident delivery make this an anthem for every cowgirl who’s ever taken the reins in love and life. It’s fun, flirtatious, and undeniably infectious—exactly the kind of song that will have fans dancing in their boots and singing along. With "Cupid’s A Cowgirl", Alexandra Kay not only introduces herself to a wider audience but also reaffirms why she’s one of the most exciting new voices in country music today. This track is a bold, boot-kicking debut that showcases her vocal prowess, storytelling ability, and unwavering commitment to the genre’s rich traditions—all while proving that when it comes to matters of the heart, this cowgirl is riding high and taking no prisoners.
Zach Russell - I Got Time
In a genre that sometimes struggles to find a balance between tradition and innovation, Zach Russell's "I Got Time" is a refreshing declaration of authenticity. It’s a song that doesn’t just wear its influences on its sleeve—it stitches them into the very fabric of its identity. Russell’s voice carries that rare, intangible magic—a gritty, lived-in quality that feels both weighty and effortless. It’s the kind of voice that doesn’t just sing lyrics; it inhabits them. And what a set of lyrics these are. Lines like “When the snakes are gone / And the fakes are bones” paint an evocative picture of a man who’s outlasted the noise, standing firm in his truth. The chorus, with its hypnotic repetition of “I got time, time just waiting to die,” is both existential and defiant—a meditation on patience, purpose, and the slow churn of life itself. Sonically, "I Got Time" straddles the line between dusty backroad storytelling and a more expansive, almost cosmic kind of country. The instrumentation is warm but never overproduced, leaning into a kaleidoscope of traditional and modern influences. There’s a rawness here that feels intentional—a reminder that real country music doesn’t need gloss to hit deep. But perhaps the most striking thing about "I Got Time" is its quiet confidence. It doesn’t beg for attention, nor does it try to fit into any mainstream mold. Instead, Russell stands firm, singing from the trenches of experience, making it clear that while the industry may be obsessed with fleeting trends, he’s got something it doesn’t—time. With this song, Zach Russell isn’t just making a statement; he’s planting a flag. And if "I Got Time" is any indication, country music needs more artists willing to do the same.
Carter Faith - If I Had Never Lost My Mind
Carter Faith has always been a rarity in modern country music—a songstress who doesn’t just write songs but crafts entire worlds within them. With her latest release, If I Had Never Lost My Mind, Faith once again proves why she’s one of Nashville’s most ethereal and imaginative storytellers. First introduced to fans at the hallowed Ryman Auditorium, the song is an intimate, aching reflection on the narratives we construct in times of heartache. It’s a “what if” ballad—grieving the roads not taken, the choices that altered everything, and the self we might have become had we never lost control. Yet, instead of leaning into dramatic overproduction, Faith lets the song breathe. Her smoky, cinematic vocals sit front and center, allowing every lyric to land with haunting precision. There’s an undeniable magic in the way Carter Faith paints her music into vivid portraits. The delicate instrumentation sways like a slow dance under dim lights, each note stitched together with a quiet, aching beauty. She doesn’t need sonic theatrics to command attention; her voice alone carries the weight of the story. In an era where country music can often feel formulaic, Faith stands apart—blending modern sounds with timeless, poetic songwriting. “If I Had Never Lost My Mind” is yet another golden touch from an artist who continues to redefine what contemporary country can be. It’s country, it’s cinematic, it’s pure Carter Faith—effortlessly mesmerizing.
Ashley Cooke Feat. Joe Jonas - All I Forgot
Ashley Cooke isn’t just carving her own lane in country music—she’s paving it with raw emotion and undeniable authenticity. Her latest release, "All I Forgot", featuring global pop sensation Joe Jonas, is a prime example of how she’s bringing fresh perspectives to country’s well-worn themes. Instead of the usual “drinking to forget” narrative, the track leans into the ache of memories that refuse to drown, proving that some heartbreaks are simply immune to whiskey’s numbing effects. Cooke’s signature warmth and rich storytelling pair seamlessly with Jonas’ smooth, seasoned vocals, crafting a duet that’s as haunting as it is intoxicating. The song’s melody sways with a late-night longing, an emotional push-and-pull that plays out like a conversation between two souls trying to move on—but failing, beautifully. Their harmonies ache in all the right places, each note laced with regret, resignation, and a flicker of something unresolved. Behind the song is an all-star lineup of writers—Jacob Kasher Hindlin (JKash), Griff Clawson, David Alexander, Naliya, Charlie Puth, Cooke, and Jonas himself—who masterfully sculpt a story that feels both deeply personal and universally understood. The production, airy yet weighty, allows the lyrics to breathe, amplifying the song’s emotional impact without overshadowing the rawness of the performances. "If All I Forgot" proves anything, it’s that Cooke is doing country music her way—and she’s doing it damn well. This isn’t just a collaboration; it’s a moment. A stunning collision of country storytelling and pop finesse, where heartbreak lingers long after the last note fades.
Preston Cooper - One More Place I've Never Been
Let’s get one thing straight—this is modern country done right. Preston Cooper’s latest release, "One More Place I’ve Never Been", is a masterclass in heartbreak storytelling, wrapped in a sound that’s as rugged as it is radio-ready. At just over three minutes, this track is the kind of song that lingers long after it fades out, demanding to be played again. Cooper’s gritty twang is bursting with personality, and as the ballad unfolds, his voice carves through the mix like a storm rolling in. The production is country to its core but carries an edge—one that hints at the raw emotion simmering beneath every line. And when he hits that fiery chorus? That’s the moment you realize this is a voice built for the big leagues. Lyrically, the song is a gut-punch of regret, distance, and moving on—just not together. The songwriting trio of Cooper and the legendary Warren Brothers (Brad and Brett) crafted a vivid, cinematic heartbreak anthem. Each verse unfolds like a series of snapshots—tumbleweeds in Abilene, blues bars on Beale Street, and a little white chapel in Vegas, all serving as symbols of the places he’s never been but where she’s gone without him. The imagery is sharp, the emotions run deep, and by the time the final chorus swells, you can feel every bit of that ache. Preston Cooper is not just another name in the mix—he’s a force to be reckoned with. With "One More Place I’ve Never Been", he delivers a performance that’s both intimate and anthemic, proving that he’s got the voice, the songwriting, and the presence to command a stadium-sized crowd. Keep your eyes on this guy—he’s only getting started.
Hannah McFarland - Broken Hearts
Hannah McFarland’s latest EP, Broken Hearts, cements her place as one of country music’s most compelling emerging voices. With a keen sense of storytelling, raw emotion, and a vocal delivery that demands attention, McFarland proves she is leading the charge for the next generation of powerful female artists. Each song on the project carries an undeniable weight, showcasing her ability to make even the most well-worn themes feel brand new. The standout of the collection, without a doubt, is "Whiskey Into Water." Taking on a tried-and-true theme in country music—the struggle of watching a loved one battle their demons—McFarland breathes new life into it with striking lyricism and an aching, yet resolute delivery. With a voice that effortlessly blends the warmth of early Faith Hill with the grit of the Dixie Chicks, she pulls the listener into every note, making it impossible to turn away. The song’s production is a perfect complement—classic, yet fresh, with a balance of rich instrumentation and McFarland’s unwavering vocals that echo the golden era of ‘90s country while feeling distinctly modern. Beyond "Whiskey Into Water", Broken Hearts as a whole stands as a masterclass in honest storytelling. Whether she’s painting vivid pictures of heartache, resilience, or personal redemption, McFarland’s ability to connect on a deeply human level sets her apart. She has not only crafted an EP filled with beautifully written songs, but she has also given listeners a reason to believe in the future of country music. Take four minutes out of your day to sit with "Whiskey Into Water"—really sit with it. Let it wash over you. And when you do, you’ll understand why Hannah McFarland is a name you won’t be forgetting anytime soon.
Tyler Braden - GOD & GUNS N' ROSES
Tyler Braden has always had a knack for blending grit with heart, and his latest track, "GOD & GUNS N' ROSES", is no exception. In just over three minutes, Braden takes listeners on a cinematic journey through a love story that feels both nostalgic and electrifying. With a voice that carries the weight of a thousand stories, Braden doesn't just sing—he commands attention. His smoky, soulful delivery drives the song forward, weaving vivid snapshots of late-night drives, car speakers blaring, and a romance that unfolds to the soundtrack of rock legends. The nod to Guns N’ Roses isn’t just lyrical; it’s embedded in the song’s spirit, effortlessly fusing rock influences with Braden’s deep country roots. While many country love songs stick to familiar themes, the song feels fresh. It’s not just about falling in love—it’s about the moments that shape a connection: the shared laughter, the stolen glances, and the music that scores it all. The melody serves as the backbone, steady yet understated, allowing Braden’s raw vocal power to shine. Tyler Braden proves once again why he’s one of country music’s most compelling rising stars. With "GOD & GUNS N' ROSES", he doesn’t just sing a love song—he makes you feel it, right down to your bones.
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