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March 1, 2026

Country Music News International Newsletter

Here is your Country Music News & Bluegrass Music News of the week from Country Music News International Magazine & Radio!

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Makenzie Phipps on Country Music News International Radio Show!

March 7th interviewed by Big Al Weekley for Country Music News International Radio Show https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/makenzie-phipps-on-country-music-news-international-radio-show-4/

Saturday live show will be in German & English with Presenter Frank Hammer and the best in country music! 4 pm – 6 pm (CET) GER, 9 am – 11 am (CST) USA, 3 pm – 5 pm (GMT) UK!

The Voice of Modern Tradition: How Makenzie Phipps is Redefining Country Soul

By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

Born in the picturesque town of Bluefield, Virginia, right on the border of West Virginia, Makenzie Phipps has rapidly emerged as one of the most compelling voices in modern country music. With a style that seamlessly bridges the gap between Appalachian tradition and contemporary Nashville flair, Phipps is more than just a singer; she is a storyteller whose roots run as deep as the mountain ridges she calls home.

Album Review: Kid Rock – Sweet Southern Sugar – By Jeremy Frost for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FzLl-FRtG_/

To be honest, I don’t think using the “Kid Rock” moniker was a smart move here. By sticking with that name, he likely turns off a large portion of potential fans who, like me, already have a predisposition to think he’s a bit of a tool. I tried my best to look past the persona and critique this album fairly, especially since it’s framed as a country record…

Album Review: John Mellencamp – Sad Clowns and Hillbillies – By Joe Kidd for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FzKH5-sFht/

Hardcore, old-school, fearless, and truthful—these are songs sung in an authentic, timeless American voice. If that is what you require from an artist, then this record is a sure bet…

Album Review: Joni Harms – Lucky 13 – By Preshias Harris for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FzCtjPSUlT/

Joni Harms occupies a unique space in music: a female recording artist who truly lives the cowgirl life. Residing on the same Canby, Oregon, farm homesteaded by her great-great-grandfather, her songs about ranching carry the weight of real experience…

Album Review: Ben Reel – Land of Escape – By Jeremy Frost for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FzBD4rnjom/

So, let me take a listen. This album is exactly what I was looking for at exactly the right time. The musical talent is on full display, the production is top-tier, and lyrically, it is a masterpiece…

Album Review: Runway 27 left – Triple Story – By Jeremy Frost for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FzzOgE-T5A/

As I was scanning the albums in my folder, I came upon this band. They really hit all of my checkboxes: they were a band I hadn’t heard of, they had an intriguing name, and I had no preconceived notions about their sound. Finding a “blind buy” that actually delivers is rarer than you’d think…

Album Review: Hatful of Rain – Songs of the Lost and Found – By Jeremy Frost for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Fzzfnl5IvY/

The album opens with some rather impressive banjo picking that immediately sets the stage. At first, you might think you’ve been transported to the hills of West Virginia, but you soon realize you’ve actually landed in Brighton and Shoreham-by-Sea, Sussex, England. What begins as Appalachian Bluegrass quickly evolves into pure English folk…

Album Review: Parmalee – 27861 – By Jeremy Frost for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Fzyvs2FKY8/

You really should pay attention to how you treat people, because sometimes you might just want to find out how that person is doing later down the line. That happened to me this week—and hey, back then I was young and stupid. What can I say? Anyway, let’s talk about Parmalee…

Genre-Bending and Chart-Topping: Dustin Lynch Sets the “Current Mood” – By Jeremy Frost for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FyiO0xrG9V/

Sometimes, you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover—or an artist by your first impression. Dustin Lynch has officially shattered expectations with his third studio album, Current Mood. It’s a record that feels less like a traditional country collection and more like a high-definition snapshot of modern life, complete with the highs of a bonfire party and the lows of a complicated text thread…

From the Opry Wings to the Center Stage: Tim Atwood is Finally “Livin’ The Dream” – By Preshias Harris for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FyhymzzFaZ/

Traditional Country fans often have to hunt for new releases that honor the genre’s roots, but Tim Atwood’s third studio album, Livin’ The Dream, is the treasure they’ve been waiting for. After 38 years of playing piano in the Grand Ole Opry staff band—literally watching the backs of country music’s biggest icons—Atwood has finally stepped out from the fringe and into the spotlight…

From Bluesy Depths to Country-Pop Heights: Steve Young Finds the Sweet Spot in A Little North of Nowhere – By Jeremy Frost for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FygOi7NFP7/

There is a specific kind of magic that happens when an artist knows exactly how to set a mood. From the very first note of his latest project, A Little North of Nowhere, Steve Young proves he is a master of atmosphere. Whether he’s dragging you into the soulful trenches of the blues or lifting you up with a radio-ready chorus, Young navigates the emotional landscape of the “North” with seasoned precision…

Bourbon-Fueled Brilliance: The Kentucky Headhunters Conquer England with “Live at the Ramblin’ Man Fair” – By Preshias Harris for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Fygep9vaCa/

It seems almost impossible in an industry that prizes the “next big thing,” but it’s the truth: The Kentucky Headhunters just keep getting better with age. Having known these guys since our FFA days back in Kentucky, I’ve watched them evolve from local legends into the definitive bridge between hard-nosed Country, Southern Rock, and the Blues…

Cinematic Soul and Americana Heart: Jenny Van West Smolders on Happiness to Burn – By Jeremy Frost for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Fyf4SrwjFg/

If you’re anything like me, you might occasionally cast a skeptical eye toward artists who sport the “triple-barrel” first-middle-last name combo. It can feel a bit… formal? But I’m here to tell you that bypassing Jenny Van West based on a naming convention would be a massive mistake. Her latest project, Happiness to Burn, is an absolute masterclass in genre-transcending storytelling that demands your attention…

A Roadhouse Requiem: Hilary Scott Bares Her Soul in Don’t Call Me Angel – By Jeremy Frost for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FyexDpYH7x/

If you’re looking for the polished, radio-ready sheen of Nashville’s bright lights, you might want to keep driving. On her latest project, Hillary Scott (best known as the powerhouse co-lead of Lady A) pulls off the highway and pulls up a stool at a dimly lit roadhouse…

Tiona Campbell is Makin’ Cowboys Cry with her new release – By Alan Shipston for Country Music News International Magazine

Tiona Campbell has released her new single, Makin’ Cowboys Cry, a song seen through the eyes of this Texas country singer/ songwriter.

Tiona Campbell is Makin’ Cowboys Cry with her new release – By Alan Shipston at Country Music News International Magazine https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/tiona-campbell-makin-cowboys-cry/

The Weight of Love and Longevity: Dale Watson Bares His Soul in “If You Really Love Me (Outlive Me)” – By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

While much of country music is preoccupied with the thrill of the chase or the sting of a breakup, Dale Watson is looking further down the road—at the quiet, heavy reality of what it means to grow old together.

The Weight of Love and Longevity: Dale Watson Bares His Soul in “If You Really Love Me (Outlive Me)” – By Christian Lamitschka at Country Music News International Magazine https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/dale-watson-if-you-really-love-me-outlive-me/

Dialing Up the Truth: Kylie Morgan Delivers a Bold Wake-Up Call in “1-800-Dump Him” – By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

If you’ve ever stayed a little too long in a relationship that felt like a slow-motion car crash, Kylie Morgan is about to become your new favorite person.

Dialing Up the Truth: Kylie Morgan Delivers a Bold Wake-Up Call in “1-800-Dump Him” – By Christian Lamitschka at Country Music News International Magazine https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/kylie-morgan-1-800-dump-him/

Stephen Styles Bares His Soul in the Raw, Reflective New Single “Whiskey And Vinyl” – By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

While many country artists are content to stay within the lanes of high-octane stadium anthems, California country-rocker Stephen Styles is proving he has the emotional range to do much more.

Stephen Styles Bares His Soul in the Raw, Reflective New Single “Whiskey And Vinyl” – By Christian Lamitschka at Country Music News International Magazine https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/stephen-styles-whiskey-and-vinyl/

Fragile Beauty and Resilient Strength: A Deep Dive into Beth Nielsen Chapman’s Hearts of Glass – By Adrian Clark for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Fx6fmjglM2/

In the world of Nashville songwriting, Beth Nielsen Chapman is a titan. If you’ve hummed along to Faith Hill’s “This Kiss,” Martina McBride’s “Happy Girl,” or Trisha Yearwood’s “Down on My Knees,” you’ve already lived inside her melodies. But as a solo artist, Chapman has always operated in a more delicate space—one defined by the “healing powers” of a woman who has navigated the deep waters of grief and survival…

The King Reclaims His Crown: A Definitive Review of the Elvis ’68 Comeback Special 50th Anniversary Box Set – By Preshias Harris for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Fx6Id0lI2f/

In the history of rock and roll, few moments are as pivotal as the night of December 3, 1968. Originally titled simply ELVIS, the television event we now know as the ’68 Comeback Special was a high-stakes gamble that redefined a legacy…

Rhinestones and Reckonings: A Deep Dive into Carrie Underwood’s Cry Pretty – By Adrian Clark for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Fx4TclUAm0/

When Carrie Underwood announced her sixth studio album, Cry Pretty, in early 2018, the stakes were impossibly high. It was her first project under UMG Nashville, co-produced with David Garcia, and touted as her “most personal album yet.” Coming off the back of a highly publicized accident and the emotional weight of three miscarriages, the world was ready for a raw, unfiltered Carrie…

Beyond the Idol Stage: Jimmy Charles Delivers a Powerful Anthem of Hope in Hard Way To Go – By Preshias Harris for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Fx3bwasDUd/

Jimmy Charles first captured the national spotlight when American Idol punched his ticket to Hollywood. But with his latest seven-song collection, HARD WAY TO GO, Charles proves he’s far more than a reality TV alumnus. Produced by the acclaimed Paul David (known for his work with CeCe Winans and Jonny Lang), this EP is a masterclass in musical versatility, pivoting seamlessly from soul-stirring ballads to grit-infused rockers…

The Maverick of Arlington: Mark Wayne Glasmire Finds His Authentic Voice in “Can’t Be Denied” – By Preshias Harris for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Fx2rNJGAjo/

If Mark Wayne Glasmire had been running around Southern California a few decades ago, there is a high probability he would have found himself sharing a stage—or a recording booth—with the Eagles. It isn’t that his sound is “old-school” in a dusty way; rather, he possesses that rare, effortless, laid-back vibe that defined an era of high-fidelity harmony and easy-going rock…

From Blue-Eyed Soul to Banjo Picking: A Porch-Side Breakdown of John Oates’ Arkansas – By Jeremy Frost for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FwXovNa11A/

Let’s be real for a second: starting a new company is a genuine pain in the neck. Between the licensing fees, the logo design drama, and the endless “convenience fees” that keep piling up, it’s enough to make anyone want to quit the grid. But when the paperwork gets too heavy, sometimes the only remedy is a glass of something cold and a record that sounds like a humid afternoon in a New Orleans alleyway…

From Southern Drawls to Bluesy Riffs: A Deep Dive into Greg Hudik’s “She Loves Kissing Girls” – By Jeremy Frost for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FwWRnqMpO_/

I’ll be honest: I picked up this album purely because I loved the title. Now, conventional wisdom says you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover—and you certainly shouldn’t choose an album (or anything else in life) based solely on a catchy name. It’s a bit like pointing blindly at a menu in a foreign language; you might end up with something unexpected. But sometimes, that blind luck leads you to a feast rather than “cow tongue.” In the case of Greg Hudik, it was definitely the former…

The Song as a Sanctuary: Linc Phelps’ “Country Singer” is a Masterclass in Musical Empathy – By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

If you take the stories out of country music, what exactly is left? Is it just a melody stripped of its memory?

The Song as a Sanctuary: Linc Phelps’ “Country Singer” is a Masterclass in Musical Empathy – By Christian Lamitschka at Country Music News International Magazine https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/linc-phelps-country-singer/

The Spirit of the West Reborn: Angel White Delivers a Blues-Soaked Masterpiece with “LONESTAR GIRL” – By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

There is a specific kind of magic that happens when a musician stops trying to fit into a genre and starts trying to honor a lineage.

The Spirit of the West Reborn: Angel White Delivers a Blues-Soaked Masterpiece with “LONESTAR GIRL” – By Christian Lamitschka at Country Music News International Magazine https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/angel-white-lonestar-girl/

Tucker Wetmore Claims His Throne: Country Breakout Announces Career-Defining Red Rocks Debut – By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

The meteoric rise of country music’s newest powerhouse shows no signs of slowing down. Adding a massive exclamation point to his breakout year, Tucker Wetmore has officially announced his first-ever headline show at the legendary Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado.

Tucker Wetmore Claims His Throne: Country Breakout Announces Career-Defining Red Rocks Debut – By Christian Lamitschka at Country Music News International Magazine https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/tucker-wetmore-red-rocks-debut/

Neon Lights and Real Life: James Robert Webb Breathes New Life into the Honky Tonk – By Jeremy Frost for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FvCeWKf6QV/

In the shifting landscape of country music, there is a constant tension between the “New Nashville” pop sound and the smoke-filled traditions of the past. On his album Honky Tonk Revival, James Robert Webb firmly plants his boots in the red dirt, delivering a collection of songs that feel both disciplined and rowdy. Webb possesses a “cowboy deep” vocal—rich and resonant without being overly raspy—that serves as the perfect anchor for this high-energy revival…

Beyond the Pumpkins: William Patrick Corgan Reclaims His Voice on Ogilala – By Jeremy Frost for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FvBHtfBR_i/

It started as a moment of curiosity while scrolling through a long list of potential albums to review. I’d play a song, think “not this one,” and move on. Then I saw the name: William Patrick Corgan. It sounded familiar. William… Will… Bill… Billy? A quick search confirmed it: this was the solo effort from the legendary Smashing Pumpkins frontman…

Honky-Tonk Soul with a Modern Edge: A Review of ‘Texas’ Bobby Dean’s Out of Hand – By Shelly Wilson for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FvBdAC3wqN/

In the landscape of country music, fans often find themselves divided into two camps: those who cling to the traditional “golden era” sound and those who embrace today’s polished, modern radio hits. Occasionally, an artist emerges who manages to carry the torch of the past while keeping their boots firmly planted in the present. ‘Texas’ Bobby Dean is exactly that kind of artist, delivering music that feels just as at home in a local honky-tonk as it does on a contemporary playlist…

The Queen of Country Pop Returns: A Review of Shania Twain’s Now – By Alexander Schulz for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FvAHkSnsb1/

After a 15-year hiatus that left the music world wondering if she’d ever return, Shania Twain has finally delivered her fifth studio album, Now. It is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a sonic document of survival, resilience, and a legendary artist reclaiming her voice…

A Direct Line to Peace: The King James Boys Strip it Down on “Power of Prayer” – By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

In an era where production often leans on high-octane arrangements to grab attention, The King James Boys are proving that the most profound impact often comes from the quietest moments.

A Direct Line to Peace: The King James Boys Strip it Down on “Power of Prayer” – By Christian Lamitschka at Country Music News International Magazine https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/the-king-james-boys-power-of-prayer/

The Legacy Lives On: Belles and Dolly Parton Build a Generational Bridge in “Son of Jolene” – By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

In the hallowed halls of country music history, few names carry the weight of Jolene. Since 1973, she has been the auburn-haired specter of heartbreak, a woman whose “beauty is beyond compare” and whose shadow has loomed over the genre for half a century.

The Legacy Lives On: Belles and Dolly Parton Build a Generational Bridge in “Son of Jolene” – By Christian Lamitschka at Country Music News International Magazine https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/belles-dolly-parton-son-of-jolene/

A Victory Lap with Friends: Tracy Lawrence Reimagines a Legend on Good Ole Days – By Preshias Harris for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Fux8Wbm24H/

Tracy Lawrence isn’t just a country singer; he’s a cornerstone of the 1990s country explosion. With 22 Billboard Top 10 singles, a Grammy nomination, and a shelf full of CMA and ACM awards, his legacy is ironclad. Yet, rather than simply letting his mantle “sag under the weight” of past trophies, Lawrence has returned with Good Ole Days (released November 10, 2017)—a collaborative project that bridges the gap between the legends of the 90s and the superstars of today…

The Architect’s Final Blueprint: Chuck Berry Takes One Last Victory Lap on CHUCK – By Preshias Harris for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FuwfWX4xuW/

They say Elvis Presley was the King of Rock n’ Roll, but if you’re looking for the man who actually drew up the blueprints, built the foundation, and wired the house for sound, you’re looking at Chuck Berry. He wasn’t just a performer; he was the Father of Rock n’ Roll. Every teenager who ever locked themselves in a bedroom to mimic a guitar lick owes a debt to Berry. From the Beatles and the Rolling Stones—who never missed a chance to champion his genius—to Johnny Rivers, who built a career on Berry’s catalogue, his influence is the very DNA of modern music…

A Master Class in the Human Condition: Doyle Lawson and Quicksilver Spin Musical Gold on Life Is a Story – By Preshias Harris for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FuvCBw60o4/

With a career spanning over 40 albums and a legacy that has essentially defined the “Bluegrass Gospel” and “Drive” standards, Doyle Lawson is more than just a bandleader—he is a monumental architect of American acoustic music. His latest project with the ever-sharp Quicksilver, titled Life Is a Story (Mountain Home Music Company), is a breathtaking affirmation of why Lawson remains at the pinnacle of the genre…

Blue-Collar Poetry and Pedal Steel Tears: Levi Massie Finds Truth in the Tradence of The Crazy Waltz – By Bibi Adell for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Fuuz5o5KRD/

In a world of manufactured country superstars, Levi Massie is the real deal—a man whose calloused hands are as familiar with pine planks as they are with guitar strings. Massie’s story is the stuff of country music legend: a hard-working man who starts his day at 6:00 AM “chucking wood” for an assembly crew, jotting down lyrics between pallets of lumber. It is this grit, combined with a soul-deep connection to the poetic traditions of the genre, that fuels his 2017 EP, The Crazy Waltz (The Orchard/Sony)…

The Shadow of the Outlaw: Steve Earle’s Brutal Truth on So You Wannabe An Outlaw – By Joe Kidd for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FutMGPPspC/

For decades, Steve Earle has been more than just a musician; he has been a North Star for those wandering the outskirts of country, rock, and folk. From his early days as a Nashville rebel to his evolution into a political firebrand and literary songwriter, Earle’s work has traditionally spoken to the heart, soul, and mind. However, his 2017 release, So You Wannabe An Outlaw (Warner Bros. Records), presents a different kind of challenge for the long-time listener. It is a record that demands to be reconciled with the legend of the “outlaw” itself…

Unstoppable Momentum: SaraBeth Finds Her Groove and Her Grace in Full Speed Ahead – By Stella Tabelon for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FutaaxG_wB/

In the fast-paced world of modern country music, it’s easy to get swept up in the noise. But for SaraBeth, an artist who has spent years building a bridge between Nashville’s polish and a truly global audience, the path forward is clear. Her project, Full Speed Ahead, is more than just a collection of songs—it’s a roadmap for the heart, blending resilience, romantic joy, and a deep-seated spiritual groundedness…

Mastery in Motion: Andy Leftwich and “The Aces” Raise the Bar for Modern Acoustic Music with Aced – By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

In the world of contemporary bluegrass and acoustic music, there are players who perform, and then there are architects who build.

Mastery in Motion: Andy Leftwich and “The Aces” Raise the Bar for Modern Acoustic Music with Aced – By Christian Lamitschka at Country Music News International Magazine https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/andy-leftwich-aced/

Louisiana’s Fiddle Sweetheart Claims Her Crown: Amanda Shaw Radiates Independence in the Spunky New Single “Buy Myself” – By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

For decades, Amanda Shaw has been the face of Louisiana’s vibrant musical heritage.

Louisiana’s Fiddle Sweetheart Claims Her Crown: Amanda Shaw Radiates Independence in the Spunky New Single “Buy Myself” – By Christian Lamitschka at Country Music News International Magazine https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/amanda-shaw-buy-myself/

From Predators to Prayers: The Evolution of Chase Rice in Lambs & Lions – By Grace Ferrell for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Ft9Iv0Njed/

When Chase Rice released Lambs & Lions, it was more than just a new collection of music; it was a necessary pivot. Coming three years after his 2014 breakout Ignite the Night, this project traded some of the “bro-country” party tropes for a more nuanced, inventive, and vulnerable look at a man growing into his own…

Dusty Roads and Cinematic Soul: Quiles & Cloud Redefines the Americana Landscape in Shake Me Now – By Jeremy Frost for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Ft8AnPXGgf/

From the first notes of their album Shake Me Now, the duo-turned-trio Quiles and Cloud transports the listener. What began as a collaboration between Maria Quiles and Rory Cloud (both on vocals and guitar) has been bolstered by the addition of upright bassist Oscar Westesson, creating a sound that is as expansive as the American West…

Mountain Melodies and Modern Edge: Dugger Band Defines a Region in East Tennessee Son – By Preshias Harris for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Ft83LsVxNj/

If there’s a way to breathe fresh life into the “traditional” country sound, the Dugger Band has found the secret sauce. Their EP, East Tennessee Son, is a six-song masterclass in home-grown storytelling, revolving around the grit and grace of coming of age in the shadow of the Great Smoky Mountains…

Sophisticated Harmonies and Heartland Soul: A Look at Acoustic Garden’s Concept Emotional – By Jeremy Frost for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Ft7mZPvuvN/

After a long bout with a stubborn flu, there is no better remedy than discovering a project that is as mellow as it is musically complex. While digging through my recent finds, I came across Acoustic Garden, a German outfit whose album Concept Emotional proved to be the perfect companion for a quiet morning of recovery…

Saltwater Soul and Nashville Grit: Parker Willingham Hits His Stride with You Get Me Every Time – By Preshias Harris for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Fs-GoA2OSP/

In his new 11-track project, You Get Me Every Time, Parker Willingham proves he is far more than just another voice in the Music City crowd. He emerges as a rare hybrid: an insightful storyteller with a compelling, gravel-touched vocal that feels earned, not manufactured…

Faith, Resilience, and the Heartland: A Reflection on Sammy Kershaw’s I Won’t Back Down – By Stella Tabelon at Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/Fs_-pXTqD2/

For decades, Sammy Kershaw has been a staple of American country music, but what truly draws a listener into his 2017 album, I Won’t Back Down, isn’t just the honky-tonk instrumentation—it’s the profound life lessons woven into the storytelling…

No Slump in Sight: Erin McLendon Masters the Pivot on “Making It Up As We Go” – By Preshias Harris for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FsZTaxuR7o/

The “sophomore slump” is a common ghost in the music industry, but indie Americana artist Erin McLendon has effectively exorcised it with her latest offering, Making It Up As We Go. Following her 2015 debut Fire and Wine, this seven-track set sees McLendon reuniting with producer Stephen Leiweke, whose steady hand ensures her distinctive vocals and sharp-witted storytelling remain the focal point from start to finish…

Ray Jones is searching for Simple Times – By Alan Shipston for Country Music News International Magazine

Ray Jones adds his voice to legions before him who question the actions of our ancestors with his new song, Simple Times.

Ray Jones is searching for Simple Times – By Alan Shipston at Country Music News International Magazine https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/ray-jones-simple-times/

Pulse-Pounding and Pure Grit: Clark Hill Sets 2026 Ablaze with “Helluva Heartbeat” – By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

There’s a specific kind of momentum in country music that you can’t manufacture with a marketing budget—it’s the kind earned through 500 shows, 14 countries, and a work ethic that treats every stage like the Grand Ole Opry.

Pulse-Pounding and Pure Grit: Clark Hill Sets 2026 Ablaze with “Helluva Heartbeat” – By Christian Lamitschka at Country Music News International Magazine https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/clark-hill-helluva-heartbeat/

Between the Blue Line and the Blues: Tryg Strand Finds His Voice in “Love & War” – By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

There is a specific kind of resonance that only comes from a life lived in two different worlds.

Between the Blue Line and the Blues: Tryg Strand Finds His Voice in “Love & War” – By Christian Lamitschka at Country Music News International Magazine https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/tryg-strand-love-war/

Boots, Beats, and Better Halves: Adam and Brooke Prove They Are ‘Two Of A Kind’ – By Stella Tabelon for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FrWkPNbOS1/

If you’re looking for the ultimate soundtrack for a night at the local honky-tonk, look no further. Adam and Brooke have delivered a high-energy, floor-filling collection with their album, Two Of A Kind. This record isn’t just a listening experience; it’s a rhythmic invitation to get out on the dance floor…

From Men at Work to a Master of Mercy: Colin Hay Explores the Human Condition on ‘Fierce Mercy’ By Stella Tabelon for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FrVu_R_U1w/

The Scottish-born Colin Hay is a true citizen of the world. After migrating to Australia and finding global superstardom as the voice of Men at Work, Hay successfully transitioned into a prolific solo career that has seen him become one of the most respected storytellers in the industry….

A Tapestry of Truth: Jimmy Fortune Finds Peace in ‘Hits and Hymns’ – By Stella Tabelon for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FrUPNgRBQU/

With the release of Hits and Hymns, legendary vocalist Jimmy Fortune has crafted an album that feels less like a mere collection of songs and more like a “waterfall of enlightenment.” Deeply rooted in the beauty of Truth and Light, Fortune—known for his storied tenure with the Statler Brothers—partners with Gaither Music to deliver a record that is both a nostalgic retrospective and a spiritual compass…

Crossing the Pond: Why Blake Shelton’s ‘If I’m Honest’ is the Ultimate Country Conversion for European Listeners – By Isabel Blanco for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FrUgY5zRl9/

To much of the world, Blake Shelton is the charismatic coach on The Voice with the sharp wit and the winning streak. But in Europe, where modern country often struggles to pierce the mainstream charts, Shelton’s musical pedigree remains a hidden gem. His 2016 release, If I’m Honest, changes that narrative entirely…

The Voice of Heartbreak and Hope: George Jones Finds Eternal Resonance on ‘The Great Lost Hits’ – By Stella Tabelon for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FrSuwYU1nV/

There are voices that define a genre, and then there is George Jones. Often called the greatest living country singer during his lifetime, “The Possum” possessed a baritone that could plumb the depths of despair and scale the heights of romantic devotion with equal ease…

Searching for the Horizon: Darden Smith Delivers a Masterpiece of Quiet Trust on ‘Everything’ – By Stella Tabelon for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FrRZ1jW7RR/

In an era of high-decibel production, singer-songwriter Darden Smith remains a master of the understated. On his album Everything, Smith masterfully weaves together folk, rock, and country influences to create a tapestry of “wisdom and inspiration.” The record serves as a sonic sanctuary, encouraging listeners to slow down, search the horizon, and find the “extraordinary” within the “ordinary”…

Rooted and Radiant: High Valley Celebrates the Journey on ‘Dear Life’ – By Stella Tabelon for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FrPYvJd62l/

Hailing from the small community of Blumenort, Alberta, Canada, brothers Brad and Curtis Rempel—better known as High Valley—have carved out a unique space in the modern music landscape. With their major-label debut, Dear Life, the duo delivers a masterclass in “Pop-Grass,” a seamless blend of high-energy pop, driving rock, and unmistakable bluegrass roots…

Boundaries Blurred and Hearts Stirred: American Young Delivers a Masterpiece of Modern Country on ‘AY’ – By Stella Tabelon for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FrP3PFtQkB/

When two seasoned architects of the Nashville sound join forces, the result is bound to be something special. Kristy Osmunson and Jon Stone, better known as the duo American Young, have officially expanded the boundaries of the genre with their self-titled album, AY…

Hooks, Heart, and High Energy: Old Dominion Serves Up a Masterclass on ‘Meat and Candy’ – By Stella Tabelon for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FrNthwI5xv/

When a band consists of five of Nashville’s most sought-after songwriters, you don’t just get an album—you get a clinic in hit-making. Old Dominion’s debut studio album, Meat and Candy, is a rare 11-track collection where every single song was co-written by the band members themselves…

Celestial Steel and Neon Lights: Vince Gill & Paul Franklin Honor the Kings of ‘Bakersfield’ – By Joe Kidd for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FrMQyfCaCQ/

In the world of music, it is a rare occurrence when the stars align to create a “celestial event” that is both unique and unforgettable. Sometimes this happens in the sky, but in this case, it happened on a multi-track recorder in Nashville…

Resilient Rhythms: Macy Martin Finds the Silver Lining in ‘Broke Down’ – By Stella Tabelon for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FrIRiv3Uvk/

Whether you believe love makes the world go round or that it’s more akin to a volatile roller coaster, Macy Martin’s latest single, “Broke Down,” explores the moment the ride comes to a grinding halt. It’s a track that navigates the “tricky tightrope” of a relationship on the rocks, offering a masterclass in how to pair a “painfully desperate” message with a sound that feels like a breakthrough…

Between the Beach and the Bible: Little Big Town Finds a Polished Middle Ground on ‘The Breaker’ – By Adrian Clark for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FrHI7nGtAV/

After 2016’s Wanderlust—an electronic experiment with Pharrell Williams that left country purists scratching their heads and the charts lukewarm—Little Big Town has returned to familiar soil. Sort of…

Turning the Page: Jana Kramer Finds Her Voice and Her Power on ‘Thirty One’ – By Stella Tabelon for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FrGDGoQM20/

With her sophomore album, Thirty One, Jana Kramer proves that she is far more than just a screen star turned singer. Named for the age at which she felt she finally found her true self, the record is a vulnerable, high-energy, and deeply relatable journey through the wreckage of past heartbreaks and the triumph of self-discovery…

Faith, Fiddle, and the “Solid Rock”: Darin & Brooke Aldridge Reach New Heights on ‘Faster and Farther’ – By Stella Tabelon for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FrE_X-2pT0/

In the world of bluegrass and acoustic music, few pairings possess the crystalline harmony and spiritual resonance of Darin and Brooke Aldridge. With their fifth studio album, Faster and Farther, the husband-and-wife duo continues to cement their reputation as the “Sweethearts of Bluegrass,” blending virtuosic musicianship with a message that aims straight for the soul…

Gainesville Icons Go Acoustic: Sister Hazel Captures Lightning in a Bottle at Daryl’s House Club – By Stella Tabelon for Country Music News International Magazine https://fb.watch/FrEj-6e_Ip/

There is a specific kind of magic that happens when a band with three decades of history strips away the distortion and sits down in an intimate room. Sister Hazel has done exactly that with their latest release, Unplugged From Daryl’s House Club…

From the Mines to the Main Stage: Trent Richardson Finds His Light in ‘World Comes Alive’ – By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

If you were looking for the antithesis of a manufactured pop star, you’d find him in Trent Richardson.

From the Mines to the Main Stage: Trent Richardson Finds His Light in ‘World Comes Alive’ – By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/trent-richardson-world-comes-alive/

From Honky-Tonk to Holy Ground: Gareth Leach & the Narratives of Hope Deliver a Raw Masterclass on ‘Blues, Grass & Gospel’ – By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

Fresh off the momentum of a 2023 ARIA-charting album and a 2024 Golden Guitar nomination, Gareth Leach & the Narratives of Hope are stepping back into the spotlight with their latest offering, Blues, Grass & Gospel.

From Honky-Tonk to Holy Ground: Gareth Leach & the Narratives of Hope Deliver a Raw Masterclass on ‘Blues, Grass & Gospel’ – By Christian Lamitschka at Country Music News International Magazine https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/gareth-leach-the-narratives-of-hope-blues-grass-gospel/

From the Heart of Europe: How Country Music News International Radio Became a 24/7 Oasis for Americana Sounds

In a world increasingly saturated with fleeting trends and genre-bending experiments, there’s a comforting steadfastness in the enduring appeal of country, bluegrass, and gospel music. For enthusiasts of these authentic American sounds residing in Europe and beyond, a beacon has emerged from an unlikely locale: Bad Vilbel, a charming town nestled in the heart of Germany. Country Music News International Radio, or CMNI Radio as it’s affectionately known, has blossomed from a local endeavor into a 24/7 online haven, offering a continuous stream of the music they love, accessible via app, direct stream, and their dedicated website. While the term “overnight success” often implies a sudden, almost magical rise, the story of CMNI Radio is one of passion, dedication, and a keen understanding of a dedicated, yet perhaps underserved, audience.

From the Heart of Europe: How Country Music News International Radio Became a 24/7 Oasis for Americana Sounds https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/from-the-heart-of-europe/

Country Music News International Radio: A Global Hub for Country Music

Country Music News International Radio is more than just a radio station; it’s a vibrant platform dedicated to celebrating and promoting the rich tapestry of country music around the world. With a focus on delivering a diverse listening experience, the station caters to fans of all sub-genres, from classic country to the latest hits, and everything in between.

Country Music News International Radio: A Global Hub for Country Music https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/country-music-news-international-radio-20/

Country Music News International Magazine: A Top 5 Hit on FeedSpot

For ardent followers of the country music scene, staying updated on the latest happenings, emerging artists, and industry trends is paramount. In this digital age, online magazines have become a go-to source for such information, and among them, Country Music News International Magazine has carved a niche for itself. Recently, the magazine has been recognized for its excellence yet again, securing a spot in the top 5 country music magazines on FeedSpot, a leading platform for curating and ranking online content. This accolade is a testament to the magazine’s commitment to delivering high-quality content and its significant contribution to the country music community.

Country Music News International Magazine: A Top 5 Hit on FeedSpot https://countrymusicnewsinternational.com/country-music-news-international-magazine-a-top-5-hit-on-feedspot/

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