Waylon Jennings Tribute Album Volume II - CountryMusicRocks.net

The late Waylon Jennings truly is an icon of country music.  Waylon’s songs are still well known & widely enjoyed, and often times they are included on artist’s performance set lists.  This February marks the 10 year anniversary of the passing of Waylon.  The Music Inside: A Collaboration Dedicated To Waylon Jennings Volume II is set for release on February 7th to celebrate the Waylon’s legacy in country music. 

Volume II serves as a fantastic follow up to the first collaboration collection.  The artists selected, paired with the songs they present, serves as a brilliant lineup on this album.  Each artist found their inner outlaw, and the influence speaks volumes within their performance.  Dierks Bentley’s take on “Lonesome, Onry and Mean” is top-notch, while Montgomery Gentry’s “Good Ol Boys” is absolutely fitting on this album.  Josh Thompson’s tribute with “Love Of The Common People” is remarkable and Hank Williams, Jr. is in his element with “Waymore’s Blues”.  The dedication album wouldn’t be complete without a track from Jenning’s wife, Jessi Colter, who takes on Waylon’s hit song “Mama”.

This collection serves as a testament to Waylon’s legacy as each artist delivered passion & dedication.  These songs are a great reminder to what Waylon brought to country music.

Pick up your copy of The Music Inside: A Collaboration Dedicated To Waylon Jennings Volume II at on Tuesday, February 7th.  You can also pre-order your copy now on iTunes by clicking HERE.

The Music Inside: A Collaboration Dedicated To Waylon Jennings Volume II  Track List
1) Lonesome, On’ry and Mean – Dierks Bentley
2) Waymore’s Blues – Hank Williams Jr.
3) Good Ol’ Boys – Montgomery Gentry
4) I Ain’t Livin’ Long Like This – Justin Moore
5) Bob Wills Is Still The King – Jack Ingram
6) Only Daddy That’ll Walk The Line – Colt Ford
7) Rainy Day Woman – Pat Green 
8)Love of the Common People – Josh Thompson
9) Mama – Jessi Colter
10) Dreaming My Dreams With You – Jewel
11) A Long Time Ago – Wyatt McCubbin (BONUS TRACK)

Kellie Pickler 100 Proof - CountryMusicRocks.net

Kellie Pickler is gearing up to release her third studio album, 100 PROOF, on Tuesday, January 24.  The new album is comprised of 11 tracks, 7 of which were co-written by Pickler, and includes her current hit single “Tough”.  Pickler’s musical influences played a significant role in her music on this album and she does a fantastic job honoring her country music heroes.

“I love traditional country music because that’s what I grew up listening to,” she says. “My grandpa Pickler taught me my first country song, ‘My Bucket’s Got A Hole In It,’ by Hank Sr. Tammy Wynette is one of the biggest reasons why I even do this. I wish so bad that I could have been born in that generation and sang country music then.  To be able to have shared the stage with Tammy and sing one of her songs would have been magical. I love Tammy, Dolly, Loretta, and Kitty Wells. I love all the classics. That’s where my soul is, so hopefully with this record it translates that through to the music.”

Pickler kicks off 100 PROOF with “Where’s Tammy Wynette?” which immediately sets the tone of the album & showcases her love for traditional country music.  The feisty song is fun & upbeat, while paying tribute to the country music icon.  Pickler is sassy & fired up on “Unlock That Honky Tonk” where she wants the bar opened, lights turned on, & the good stuff being poured (even if it is only Tuesday night).  “Tough” served as a fantastic debut single from the new album which fans quickly embraced upon its release.  “Mother’s Day” is one of many standout tracks on the album and is written by both Pickler and husband Kyle Jacobs.  The track is about a strained mother/daughter relationship, or lack thereof.  With lyrics such as “Maybe someday I will let go, But right now I’m still hanging on, Maybe one day God’ll bless me with a daughter of my own, We’ll have a love I’ve never known…” the emotional song, coupled with Pickler’s sweet/soft voice, will tug at your heart strings.  Album titled track “100 Proof” is another standout song that beautifully displays Pickler’s passion.  There are two couples displayed in this song and Kellie says she has been on both sides.   “I’ve been both girls in this song,” she says. “I’ve been the girl that I’m singing about in the verses that is not in a good place and not in a good relationship. I’ve been in there so if I would have heard this song four or five years ago, I would never have cut it because I didn’t have that love. I didn’t have 100 proof, but Kyle came along and now I’m the girl in the chorus. I’m that girl and we are that couple.  I’m glad to be on the other side.”

100 PROOF represents Pickler’s growth as an artist as well as a songwriter.  Kellie does an impressive job sticking to her roots on this album.  Her vocals are strong and the songs are fulfilling, making this album certifiably 100 Proof Country!

Pick up your copy of Kellie’s new album 100 PROOF in stores starting January 24th or online at iTunes by clicking HERE.  Keep up with Pickler by visiting her official website, www.KelliePickler.com.

Tim McGraw Emotional Traffic - CountryMusicRocks.net

Tim McGraw’s highly anticipated new album, Emotional Traffic, is finally hitting the shelves on Tuesday, January 24th.  McGraw once again steps up to the musical plate and scores BIG with this new album.  Emotional Traffic houses 12 strong tracks including “Felt Good On My Lips” and new single “Better Than I Used To Be”.  McGraw coins this as “my best album ever” and once you take a listen, you will hear just what he is talking about.

Emotional Traffic is full of strength, soul and passion.  The album has a strong beginning kicking things off with haunting ballad “Halo”.  Right from the start Tim’s vocals are captivating on this track as he sings about a depressing love that just can’t be held together any longer. “Right Back Atcha Babe” is a fun upbeat tune with a soul-filled sound and catchy chorus.  “I Will Not Fall Down” is another standout track that was co-written by Tim McGraw, Martina McBride, Brett Warren & Brad Warren. McGraw’s delivery of this song is brilliant as his passion radiates from start to finish.  Current single at country radio, “Better Than I Used To Be”, is a song that longtime McGraw fans will connect to as it is holds his traditional sound that we have grown accustomed to over the years.  “Touchdown Jesus” is sure to make an impact.  The message is strong in this song as Tim sings about miracles such as an alcoholic who quit drinking, a single mom at her child’s graduation, a little girl who was ill as a child and is now 21, all symbolizing “touchdowns”.  Hopefully this song will be included in McGraw’s set list this summer on the Brothers of the Sun Tour, as the setting will be perfect in football stadiums across the US.  

“Felt Good On My Lips” has been a fan favorite since its release and has since reached digital Gold status with over 500,000 copies downloaded. “Only Human” features Hip-Hop/R&B artist Ne-Yo.  Both voices blend together perfectly on this song making it a track that could potentially be a crossover hit. “Die By My Own Hand” concludes Emotional Traffic and is one that will resonate with fans long after the song is over.   This is another track that will hopefully be on McGraw’s set list, as the power and passion delivered in the studio on this track is sure to be reflected & quite possibly magnified in a live performance.   

Emotional Traffic is a collection of upcoming hits, it’s no wonder McGraw feels as this is his best album ever.  It is evident that there is no plateau in sight for McGraw, his talents continue to grow and transcend with each project.    

Be sure to pick up your copy of Emotional Traffic on Tuesday, January 24th at your favorite retail store.  Keep up to date with Tim by visiting his official website www.TimMcGraw.com.

Phil Vassar NOEL - CountryMusicRocks.net

Phil Vassar knows how to get folks in the holiday spirit with his newly released holiday album NOEL.  Vassar’s charasmatic personality shines through on this album as he sings classic Christmas tunes as well as fun and new holiday music. 

NOEL is the first full length album produced on Vassar’s own record label, Rodeowave Entertainment.  The album is comprised of 10 songs, 5 are classic tunes that we all know & love during this time of year and the additional 5 tunes were written/co-written by Vassar as he brings the holiday season to life.  “Doesn’t Feel Like Christmas Without You” kicks the album off with a jazzy feel to it that will remain timeless over the years to come.  Phil’s rich vocals on the medley of “Oh Come All Ye Faithful/Angels We Have Heard On High” is top notch quality.  The musical arrangement coupled with his rich voice gives this medley of classic holiday music the recognition it deserves. “I Save Christmas”, “Big Ol’ Texas Christmas” & “Santa’s Gone Hollywood” showcase the fun, energetic, charming side of Phil that we have all come to know and love.  You can almost hear Phil’s smile as he sings these songs, knowing he is having just as much fun as you will when your listening.  Vassar does a fabulous job on “I”ll Be Home For Christmas”.  He once again takes a popular holiday tune and gives it a whole new sound. His smooth, slow approach on this song was effective as he captured the true message that belongs with this classic song.  “Away In A Manager” will always be a testament to the holiday season and Vassar’s duet with Kellys Collins gives justice to this song.  Their harmonies are strong and their voices blend together beautifully.  “Let’s Make A Little Christmas Tonight” is another tune co-written by Vassar and serves as a perfect holiday love song as it is romantic not only with the lyrics and presentation, but the musical arrangement that is once again – excellent.

NOEL offers listeners a well rounded holiday album as it includes the holiday songs that will always be a part of this season and it also offers something new to enjoy.  Vassar nails it on this album with his song choices and music arrangements, making this holiday album unique, fun & timeless.  NOEL is a must-have for the holiday season. Pick up a copy on Vassar’s official site by clicking HERE or on iTunes HERE.  Spread the holiday cheer and pick up a copy for your family members, friends, co-workers, etc… Stuff their stockings early so they can enjoy this great holiday album throughout the season.

Keep up to date with Phil Vassar by visiting his official website www.PhilVassar.com.

Joey & Rory A Farmhouse Christmas - CountryMusicRocks.net

Husband and wife duo Joey + Rory have recently released their new holiday album A Farmhouse Christmas.  The duo does a perfect job capturing the holiday spirit on their 12-track CD which includes traditional classics such as “Blue Christmas” and “Away In A Manger”.  Of the album, Joey says “We made this record with hopes of trying to bring the listener into our home and share a small piece of our world at Christmas time with them”.  Rory adds, “It brings on so many feelings that other times of the year just don’t.  We seem to laugh (and eat) more, think deeper, reminisce more, and for a short time, most of our priorities all to come into perspective”.

Joey + Rory start things off with “It’s Christmas Time” which was written by Rory Feek.  Joey’s sweet voice immediately gets you in the holiday spirit as she sings about the holiday season from trimming the tree, to making room at the table for extra guests.  “If We Make It Through December” is a track that was originally recorded by Merle Haggard.  While the song is not intended to be an actual “holiday” tune, this track is definitely fitting on this album.  Having Haggard join in on the song is another bonus.  “We can’t even begin to tell you what an honor it is to have Merle singing on it with us,” said Joey.  “There are some dreams that even when they come true, you still think you must be dreaming… and this is one”“Remember Me” is another standout track on the album, showcasing Rory’s smooth vocals.  The song holds a deep message that should be remembered not only during the holiday season, but also year around.  “Diamond O” holds a classic “western” tune, coupled with Joey’s impressive yodeling skills while “What The Hell (It’s The Holidays)” also holds a classic sound that includes a modern day excuse that we all tend to use during this time of year, “it’s the holidays…”  The duo did an excellent job on their rendition of well known holiday tune “Blue Christmas” with Joey taking the lead vocal on this track. Joey + Rory’s impeccable harmonies absolutely sparkle on “Away In A Manager”. Both vocals are showcased on this track as they do an amazing presentation of a Christmas song that will always be a part of this holiday.  

A Farmhouse Christmas serves as a well balanced holiday album.  It is filled with holiday spirit that holds a timeless sound that is sure to get put you in the mood for the holidays.  A Farmhouse Christmas is available in retail stores now and on iTunes by clicking HERE.  Be sure to pick up a copy this holiday season and spread the holiday joy & pick up one for family and friends.

Keep up to date with Joey + Rory, and see if they are coming to your area for their holiday tour by visiting their official website www.JoeyandRory.com.

David Nail The Sound Of A Million Dreams Album Cover - CountryMusicRocks.net

David Nail is gearing up to release his second studio album, The Sound Of A Million Dreams, on Tuesday, November 15.  The new release is comprised of 11 fantastic songs, 3 of which David wrote/co-wrote including album debut single “Let It Rain”.   Several well-known artists/songwriters have also taken part on The Sound Of A Million Dreams, including Keith Urban, Eric Palsay, Charles Kelley, David Haywood and Phil Vassar.  David absolutely “nails” it on this album as he captivates listeners right from the start.  The Sound Of A Million Dreams is an album that is set to make an evident impact in country music, and CountryMusicRocks.net considers it one of the top album releases for 2011.

Nail kicks things off with “Grandpa’s Farm,” immediately showcasing his talents with his blues-esque tone that is prominent on this album & factors in nicely with his country twang.  “Songs for Sale” features Lee Ann Womack and their voices blend together nicely as they sing about their calling as musical artists.  “Desiree” is a standout track on the album where Keith Urban serves as a co-writer.  David captures the story perfectly as he tells the tale of losing “Desiree” to a rich man.  With lyrics such as “I can’t hold you any longer, you love his money more than me”, coupled with a well balanced music arrangement, the track is one that will standout to listeners well after the song is over.  “I Thought You Knew,” written by David Nail, Charles Kelley & Dave Haywood of Lady Antebellum and Monty Powell, will fit in nicely on country radio.  The song is a great reminder to tell the one you love that you do in fact love them, even if you think they already know.  “Half Mile Hill” is another captivating track on the album showcasing David’s talents.  While the music is simple in the background, David’s vocals speak volumes throughout the entire song as he sings about this hill that serves as an escape where one can go to think & reflect back on past experiences.  Album titled track “The Sound Of A Million Dreams,” written by Phil Vassar & Scooter Carusoe, is a song that lives up to it’s title, especially when delivered by David Nail.   The chorus serves as a testimony to David’s hard work, not only on this album but also to his career.  I labor for hours cause I know the power of a song when a song hits you right, pouring my soul into stories of life, hoping someone’ll hear one tonight. Maybe my voice will cut through the noise and stir up an old memory. And out of these piano keys comes the sound, the sound of a million dreams.  His vocals are strong, rich, & powerful making you want to hit repeat and listen to the song again.  “Catherine” closes out the album and is a beautiful dedication to David’s wife.  The track was written solely by David as he honors his wife Catherine telling her she is all he will ever need.  It goes without saying that Catherine is one of his dreams come true.

Be sure to pick up your copy of The Sound Of A Million Dreams at your favorite retail store or on iTunes by clicking HERE.  This is definitely an album you will want to have in your collection as you are sure to enjoy it just as much as we did.  The Sound Of A Million Dreams will also make a perfect holiday gift this season!

Keep up to date with David by visiting his official website, www.DavidNail.com.

BNA recording artist Wade Bowen just released his new single, “Saturday Night”, on iTunes.  Bowen has a great solid sound that will fit in nicely on country radio.  His new single has a unique view on one of the most sought out days of the week, Saturday Night.  While most weekend-type songs are about partying & living-it-up, this new single is quite the opposite. 

“Saturday Night” is a tale of a guy who is at the bar but not having a good time like everyone else.  He is lonely, even though there is a crowd, and has nothing waiting for him at home; other than Sunday morning.  As he sits at the bar thinking about his sad goodbye, he is wondering  why everybody loves Saturday night.  The new the tune is one that is catchy and is sure to make an impact on country radio with lyrics such as  “‘Why does everybody love Saturday night, Stale smell of beer and the smoke in your eyes, I keep sittin’ and drinken’ and thinkin’ about a sad good-bye, So tell me why is everybody so in love with Saturday night.” 

Wade is currently busy touring in Texas, but he will be making his way out to country radio stations promoting his new single “Saturday Night”.  You can start enjoying his new single now by taking a listen and then be sure to pick up your copy of “Saturday Night” available on iTunes now by clicking HERE.

Get to know Wade Bowen by “liking” him on Facebook, following him on Twitter and visiting his official website www.WadeBowen.com.

Joe Nichols It's All Good - CountryMusicRocks.net

Joe Nichols released his sixth studio album, It’s All Good, today, November 8, and the album is exactly that – it’s ALL good! In fact, its great!!  The new album houses 10 solid tracks, including his hit single “Take It Off”.  Nichols’ rich voice once again captures listeners on this album from start to finish. Joe sticks to his roots resulting in the album maintaining a traditional country sound. 

Nichols’ kicks the album off with his lead single “Take It Off”.  The carefree tune serves as a great summer anthem making you want to “dig your hand down in the cooler, grab a cold one & twist the top – take it off”“Somebody’s Mama” is a unique song about the love that got away.  As he remenices about about the girl he loved, he figures that she has moved on, married a rich man and is a mother by now.  Title track “It’s All Good” has a classic country sound that is laid back and easy going. While things don’t always work or go as planned, it’s still all good.  “I Can’t Take My Eyes Off You” is a standout track on the album.  Between the music arrangement and Joe’s solid vocals along with Alison Krauss singing in the background, the song intrigues you right from the start.  “No Truck, No Boat, No Girl” once again showcases Nichols fun personality as does “Never Gonna Get Enough” where you can almost hear Joe’s bright smile in the song.

It’s All Good is a definite must-have for your country collection.  Visit your favorite retail store or download your copy from iTunes by clicking HERE.

Keep up to date with Joe by visiting his official website, www.JoeNichols.com.