Garrett Bradford Unveils Heartache and Honky-Tonk Grit with New Single “She Loves Horses”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Texas country artist Garrett Bradford is offering a poignant glimpse into his upcoming EP, Honkiest of Tonkers – Part II, with the release of his new single, “She Loves Horses.” Now available on all major streaming platforms, this ballad of love lost and lessons learned showcases Bradford’s talent for weaving classic storytelling with a raw, country soul.
“She Loves Horses” paints a vivid picture of a relationship that blossoms with promise only to wither under the weight of heartbreak. Bradford’s evocative lyrics tell the story of a man who finds his ideal woman, only to be the architect of their demise, watching as her affection transforms into resentment. The track’s emotional depth is heightened by its seamless blend of traditional country narrative and a contemporary sensibility, a balance that has become a hallmark of Bradford’s sound.
Adding to the song’s pedigree is its co-writing credit with Nashville veteran Tammy Hyler, known for penning hits for artists like Martina McBride, Collin Raye, and Sheryl Crow. This collaboration underscores Bradford’s commitment to crafting songs with both emotional resonance and lyrical craftsmanship.
“She Loves Horses” serves as the first taste of Honkiest of Tonkers – Part II, an EP slated for full release on May 23, 2025. Fans won’t have to wait long for more new music, as Bradford is set to drop another single, “Firefly,” on May 2nd, building anticipation for the complete project.
Adding an exciting element for longtime fans, the EP will also feature a brand-new radio version of Bradford’s breakout hit, “This Way of Life.” The song, which gained significant traction after its appearance in Season 3, Episode 9 of the critically acclaimed television series Yellowstone, became a cultural moment, even claiming the title of the most Shazammed country song in the U.S. the day after it aired. Its inclusion in the new EP underscores its enduring popularity and its pivotal role in Bradford’s burgeoning career.
Honkiest of Tonkers – Part II follows the release of Honkiest of Tonkers – Part I earlier this year, which garnered considerable praise for its unapologetically traditional Texas country sound. Standout tracks from the first installment, such as “Watching You Burn,” “Do You (I Do),” and “Bad Girl Good,” landed Bradford on prominent playlists across major streaming platforms, including Spotify’s All New Country, CMT’s Roundup, ACM’s Fresh New Finds, and Apple Music’s New in Country. He was also recognized as one of Country Evolution’s Artists to Watch in 2025, further solidifying his rising star status.
Echoing the positive reception, The Rocking Magpie lauded Bradford’s sound as “Pure, classically old-fashioned, 100% hardcore Texas honky tonk,” declaring him “the real deal.” This sentiment speaks to the authenticity that permeates Bradford’s music, a quality deeply rooted in his upbringing.
Raised on a ranch in Weatherford, Texas, Bradford’s connection to the Western and rodeo lifestyle is not just a persona; it’s an integral part of his identity. His firsthand experience in ranching, rodeo, and working with bucking stock lends a genuine understanding of the cowboy way of life to his songwriting and performance. He is a natural storyteller, capturing the heart and soul of the West with an undeniable authenticity.
Bradford’s journey into the Texas music scene began in 2020 with his debut EP. However, it was the serendipitous placement of “This Way of Life” on Yellowstone that catapulted him into the national spotlight. The song’s immediate impact, reaching #32 on the iTunes Country Top 40 Chart, demonstrated the power of his music to connect with a broad audience.
A significant influence in Bradford’s career has been Taylor Sheridan, the acclaimed writer, producer, and director behind Yellowstone and its successful prequels, as well as other notable series. Sheridan’s mentorship and belief in Bradford’s authentic storytelling played a crucial role in reigniting his passion for music and opening doors for his work to reach a wider audience.
Further validating his talent, Bradford was recognized as the songwriting winner of Texas Songwriter U in 2023, a prestigious program hosted by esteemed songwriters Jack Ingram, Liz Rose, and BMI. With a growing fanbase evidenced by over 60,000 monthly streams and a relentless touring schedule of over 600 shows across Texas, Bradford has firmly established his presence in the Texas country music landscape.
Now dividing his time between Nashville and Texas, Bradford continues to hone his craft by collaborating with some of the industry’s most respected songwriters, including Leslie Satcher (“Troubadour”/George Strait, “Prove You Wrong”/Sheryl Crow), Tom Douglas (“House That Built Me”/Miranda Lambert, “We Made Love”/Alabama), and Phil O’Donnell (“Give It All We Got Tonight”/George Strait, “Doin’ What She Likes”/Blake Shelton). These collaborations are undoubtedly shaping and refining his songwriting, promising even greater depth and nuance in his future work.
With the release of “She Loves Horses” and the impending arrival of Honkiest of Tonkers – Part II, Garrett Bradford is poised to further solidify his position as a compelling voice in Texas country music. His ability to blend authentic Texas grit with compelling lyrics and dynamic performances makes this upcoming EP a highly anticipated project for true country music enthusiasts.