Tucker Wetmore’s Ascendant Star: “3,2,1” Rockets to No.1 Most-Added, Album on the Horizon
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Tucker Wetmore’s meteoric rise in the country music landscape continues unabated. Fresh off his chart-topping success with “Wind Up Missin’ You,” the Washington-born singer-songwriter has once again captured the attention of Country radio with his latest single, “3,2,1.” The track debuted as the No. 1 most-added song, securing a staggering 73 first-week stations, a testament to Wetmore’s burgeoning popularity and the undeniable appeal of his music. This impressive feat solidifies Wetmore’s position as one of the genre’s most exciting and sought-after new artists.
“3,2,1,” penned by Josh Miller, Summer Overstreet, and Jordan Reynolds, delves into the familiar territory of regret and missed romantic opportunities. The song’s clever wordplay and catchy melody create an immediate connection with listeners. The poignant refrain, “3 words, 2 late, damn girl you’re the one that got away,” encapsulates the song’s emotional core, resonating with anyone who has experienced the sting of lost love. Country Central’s assessment of Wetmore being “just a heartbeat away from being a household hit” feels particularly apt, as “3,2,1” seems destined for widespread acclaim. The accompanying lyric video further enhances the song’s impact, allowing listeners to immerse themselves in its narrative.
The radio success of “3,2,1” arrives just weeks before the highly anticipated release of Wetmore’s debut album, “What Not To,” on April 25th. This 19-song collection promises to be a comprehensive exploration of the experiences that have shaped Wetmore’s 25 years. Produced by Chris LaCorte, “What Not To” weaves together a tapestry of interconnected themes, creating a cohesive narrative that reflects the complexities of life. As Wetmore himself describes, the album’s songs are linked “like red yarn connecting a bunch of pins on a wall,” suggesting a deep sense of introspection and thematic unity.
At the heart of “What Not To” lies the title track, a deeply personal song that addresses themes of struggle, compassion, and redemption. The poignant lyric, “Momma said you don’t pray no more/breaks my heart, so I do it for you,” reveals a vulnerability and emotional depth that resonates powerfully. This track, in particular, showcases Wetmore’s ability to craft songs that are both relatable and emotionally impactful.
Wetmore’s rapid ascent is nothing short of remarkable. In just one year, he has transitioned from a promising newcomer to a bona fide star. His RIAA PLATINUM-certified No. 1 hit, “Wind Up Missin’ You,” dominated the charts, earning him an iHeartRadio Music Awards nomination for Best New Country Artist and a national television debut on NBC’s TODAY with Jenna & Friends. His selection as a 2025 Opry NextStage Artist further underscores his growing prominence in the genre.
Currently, Wetmore is captivating audiences across Europe with performances at Country 2 Country (C2C), showcasing his international appeal. His extended WAVES ON A SUNSET TOUR 2025 includes a sold-out show at London’s Electric Ballroom, demonstrating his ability to connect with fans on a global scale. Adding to his already busy schedule, Wetmore will join Thomas Rhett’s BETTER IN BOOTS TOUR 2025 as direct support across 33 dates this summer, providing him with a platform to reach an even wider audience.
Wetmore’s journey to stardom has been fueled by a string of successes, including back-to-back Billboard Hot 100 hits with “Wine Into Whiskey” and “Wind Up Missin’ You.” His debut EP, “Waves on a Sunset,” released in October, has amassed over 810 million global streams, earning him spots on prestigious Artist to Watch lists from Spotify, Billboard, VEVO, MusicRow, and numerous others.
Wetmore’s musical background is as diverse as his appeal. He draws inspiration from a wide range of genres, including country, reggae, rock, and hip-hop, all while maintaining a foundation in classic country storytelling. This eclectic approach to music allows him to create a sound that is both familiar and fresh, appealing to a broad spectrum of listeners.
With his debut album on the horizon and a packed touring schedule, Tucker Wetmore is poised for even greater success. His talent, hard work, and genuine connection with his audience have propelled him to the forefront of the country music scene. As he continues to release new music and perform for fans around the world, there is no doubt that Tucker Wetmore’s star will continue to rise.
Photo credit: Tanner Johnson