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Jake Owen Plays Brand New Album For Sold-Out NYC Crowd

Jake Owen NYC

Last night those who were lucky enough to grab tickets early were in attendance at a New York City night club turned country music venue to catch Jake Owen’s triumphant return with brand new music and his new label, Big Loud Records. Chase Soundcheck Presented Jake Owen at Marquee NYC and fans arrived early to wait on line to get a premiere spot to catch the country star.

Rocking a new style, a green and purple western shirt, and a black fedora hat Owen took the stage confident, ready to share this new album with his fans. Greetings From…Jake was released last Friday and Owen has been promoting the new music all over the country, most recently playing the Today Show in the Artist’s Lounge. He kicked the night off with the ACM nominated song “Down To The Honkytonk” and immediately phones flew up to capture the song. Promising the crowd that he wouldn’t leave the stage before playing songs that they knew and loved, he took advantage of the moment to play almost the entire album front to back, explaining which were his favorites and why.

“I’m playing y’all a lot of these new songs off the new record tonight, I hope you know that I hope you’re prepared, I might throw an oldie or a goodie in there I promise, but I’ve really got to introduce you to this new music that I’ve been working hard on, are you guys cool with that?” The fans cheered him on, just as excited to sing along to their new favorites.

Switching gears from the debut single “I Was Jack (You Were Diane)” to “Grass Is Greener” to “Señorita”  he passionately sang 10 of the songs from Greetings From…Jake and he was pleasantly surprised when he could hear the lyrics being sung back to him. He admitted that since the record was so new, it was the very first time he and his band had played a lot of the songs live, and hoped that the audience liked what they heard.

Jake Owen NYC

Before singing one of the more touching songs on the record, Owen shared; “I’ve been playing this song for about a year or so and I’ve kind of noticed throughout the year of playing it, not only does this song mean a lot to me but I’ve noticed it means a lot to a lot of other people.”  He continued ” My buddy Michael Ray just asked me if I would sing this at his wedding for him and Carly Pearce so, I never sang at a wedding before other than my sisters wedding, and I was just a kid and I sang “Boot Scootin’ Boogie, so this will be cool to do my own song”. He then serenaded the crowd with a loving rendition of “Made For You”.

As promised, he ended the night by singing fan favorites “Barefoot Blue Jean Night”, “Beachin'”, and “Anywhere With You” as well as some incredible classic country covers like “Family Tradition”, “You Never Even Called Me By My Name”, and a rousing rendition of Elvis Presley’s “Hound Dog”.  He even had some fun by rapping Biggie’s “Juicy” and throwing in a little Fresh Prince of Bel Air theme song.

Overall, Owen brought the party on a Tuesday night in New York City at an unlikely venue for country music. His energy, passion, and talent were shining examples of Nashville meets the Big Apple and this new music will certainly carry him into the next generation of country music lovers. Head to our Instagram for exclusive clips of the show and read more about Greetings From…Jake in our First Impression review.

To keep up with Owen follow him on InstagramTwitter, and Facebook.

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ICYMI Jake Owen Performs “Down To The Honkytonk” on TODAY

Jake Owen Today Show Down To The Honkytonk

Photo Courtesy of Today.com

Florida native and ACM nominated Jake Owen stopped by NBC’s TODAY to promote his newly released full-length album, Greetings from…Jake. Giving fans something fun and upbeat to wake up to, the Big Loud Records recording artist performed a stripped-down version of his single, “Down to the Honkytonk”, taking the stage in ‘The Artist’s Lounge.’

During the third hour of the broadcast, co-anchors, Sheinelle Jones, Dylan Dreyer, and Craig Melvin welcomed Owen to the stage. Spotlighting his talent, Melvin introduced the singer as, “Country superstar Jake Owen.” Jones went on to share, “He just released his sixth studio album, and he’s up for an ACM Single of the Year for “Down to the Honkytonk.””

The co-anchors took a moment to ask Owen about his newest record and how his life has inspired the tracks. The hitmaker gushed about his girlfriend, who is currently pregnant with his daughter. “I think it [the record] just reflects where I am in my life right now, where I’ve been, and where I want to go. I have a little girl on the way right now!” he excitedly shared, just before promising “some fun” with his performance.

With a guitar in hand and two supporting band members, Owen got right into it, showing off his distinct vocals in the acoustic version of his charted single. The singer had a permanent smile on his face throughout the entire performance. Even as a slower-paced version, “Down to the Honkytonk,” is still as infectious and catchy as ever- always giving off that good party song vibe.

Check out the full performance below.

Lucky New Yorkers can catch Owen’s sold out show and all his new music tonight at Manhattan’s Marquee. Follow NYCountry Swag on Instagram for exclusive videos from the show.

To keep up with Owen follow him on Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook.

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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC & Beyond!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
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and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

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NYCS First Impression: Jake Owen ‘Greetings From…Jake’

Jake Owen Greetings From Jake

After three long years, Florida native and ACM nominated, Jake Owen, has given fans what they have wanted for so long. Greetings from…Jake is Owen’s debut full-length album with Big Loud Records who signed him in late 2017.

The cover art is stylized as a retro postcard that was inspired by postcards from Owen’s childhood and highlight his Floridian roots. This new album reunites Jake with producer Joey Moi, who was at the helm of some of his biggest hits in the past, including “Barefoot Blue Jean Night,” “Beachin’” and “Alone With You.”

The album’s lead single, “I Was Jack (You Were Diane)” was inspired by young love and also pays homage to John Mellencamp and his iconic hit. The song also became Owen’s seventh No. 1 hit when it was released to country radio in 2018. The follow-up single to the album, “Down to the Honkytonk” is currently in the Top 10 and nominated for ACM Single of the Year at the 54th Annual ACM Awards on April 7th.

“Grass is Always Greener” is a highlight on the record and not because it features the one and only Kid Rock. This feel-good track focuses on appreciating what you have and living life to the fullest without wanting for more. “We’re always gonna want a little more than we got / yeah that just the way the big world turns / ridin’ that stock market rocket, holes in your pocket, if there’s just one thing I’ve learned / If your mad at the man, or mad at the hand you were dealt, with well then you’re missing the point, the grass is always greener in somebody else’s joint.”  We can already see this being a hit during Owen’s live show and a definite hit while you are floating in your pool or on a lake this summer.

Another standout is “Homemade”, written by Bobby Pinson, Drew Parker, Jared Mullins, and Ben Goldsmith, the midtempo track will make you miss the simple pleasures of life and if you have moved away, miss your home town and all the comforts it brings. “Home made me love a dirt road / home made me crave some ice cold, homemade sweet tea only mama knows how to make, yeah homemade / home made me love a small town / home made me want to settle down in a homemade for the two of us / everything I love is homemade.” 

“In It” is Owen’s striking new ballad that was written by Jimmy Robbins, Josh Thompson, and Laura Veltz. The track is a nostalgic song about looking back on a relationship and recalling old memories, hoping the woman he set free will always think back fondly on their time together.  Like many of the songs, sonically Owen has gone back to a traditional country sound, the lyrics are smoothly laid over a simple acoustic and slide guitar.

Greetings From…Jake offers listeners the perfect songs to so many of life’s situations including, ending a relationship, drinking a cold beer, reminiscing on simpler times and recognizing that if you just slow down and take a look around, life is pretty great. Owen’s debut release on Big Loud Records brings him back to the roots where his fans first fell in love with him and we believe this album will be one that will encourage repeat spins for the entire year.

Fans can catch Owen and all of his new music on April 2nd in the big apple at Marquee for a sold-out show. To keep up with Owen follow him on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook.

Greetings from…Jake is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

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and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

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Jake Owen Releases Sultry Love Song “That’s On Me”

That's On Me

With just one week until the March 29 release of his new album, Greetings From…Jake, Jake Owen released “That’s On Me” today (March 22). On the sultry track, Owen is making some smooth vows to a special lady and promising a romantic evening. If Owen’s girl was even slightly concerned about the evening’s plans, the crooner promises that he’s got all the details under control, swearing “Loving on you, girl, that’s on me.”

Written by Laura Veltz, Benjy Davis, and Matt Dragstrem, “That’s On Me” highlights Owen’s smooth vocals over romantic guitars and is sure to become a cell-phone raising moment during Owen’s live shows. On the song, Owen promises to take care of the loving, while seeking the intercession of friends like Jack Daniels and Johnny Cash for some help. “Don’t you worry about the whiskey, that’s on Jack, Don’t you worry about the throwback, that’s on Cash…” Owen croons.

“That’s On Me” is the fourth track to be released from Owen’s forthcoming album, following “Drink All Day,” “I Was Jack (You Were Diane)” and “Down to the Honkytonk.” Greetings From…Jake marks Owen’s follow-up to 2016’s American Love album.

GREETINGS FROM…JAKE Track Listing

1. Down To The Honkytonk (Luke Laird, Rodney Clawson, Shane McAnally)
2. Ain’t Here To Talk (Jesse Frasure, Brett Tyler, Michael Hardy)
3. Catch A Cold One (Jon Nite, Josh Thompson, Justin Ebach)
4. I Was Jack (You Were Diane) (Craig Wiseman, David Ray, Jody Stevens, John Mellencamp, Tommy Cecil)
5. Grass Is Always Greener (feat. Kid Rock) (Ben Burgess, Jaren Johnston, Robert Ritchie, Alysa Vanderheym)
6. Homemade (Bobby Pinson, Drew Parker, Jared Mullins, Ben Goldsmith)
7. Drink All Day (Daniel Ross, Ernest K Smith, Brian Kelley, Josh Miller)
8. That’s On Me (Laura Veltz, Benjy Davis, Matt Dragstrem)
9. Señorita (feat. Lele Pons) (Nolan Sipe, Nathan Spicer, Ben Caver)
10. In It (Jimmy Robbins, Josh Thompson, Laura Veltz)
11. River of Time (Dallas Davidson, Ben Hayslip, Marv Green)
12. Made for You (Benjy Davis, Joey Hyde, Neil Medley)
13. Mexico in Our Minds (Jaren Johnston, Chris DeStefano, Ashley Gorley)
14. Damn (David Lee Murphy, Jake Owen, Brett James)

To keep up with Jake Owen, follow him on InstagramTwitter, and Facebook

“That’s On Me” is now available everywhere you buy or stream music. Take a listen below and check out more new recently released music here on our ‘New Country Music’ playlist. Be sure to give the playlist a follow for your weekly new country music fix.

 

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[Watch] Jake Owen Performs “Down To The Honkytonk” on Jimmy Kimmel Live!

Jake Owen Jimmy Kimmel

Photo courtesy of Jimmy Kimmel Live’s Facebook & Instagram

In honor of the 52nd Annual CMA Awards later tonight, Jimmy Kimmel Live! is featuring country music stars as the musical guests to close out each show this week. Multi-platinum selling singer-songwriter, Jake Owen returned to the Mercedes-Benz Concert Series stage last night to perform his latest single, “Down To The Honkytonk.”

Host Jimmy Kimmel, joined the outdoor audience to introduce the country superstar and gave mention to his brand new country music competition show entitled ‘Real Country’. Owen gave a quick birthday shout-out to Kimmel before vocalizing the lighthearted, fun track. Joined by his six-piece band, the Big Loud Records artist had the entire crowd clapping and dancing along to every beat while strumming along to his own guitar.

Off camera, the singer-songwriter continued the outdoor mini-concert with his hit “I Was Jack (You Were Diane)”, along with “Made For You” from his latest self-titled EP, as well as “LAX” off of his 2016 studio album entitled American Love. The country star surely brought some Nashville vibes to Los Angeles.
Owen’s new show, Real Country, also premiered last night. The brand new television singing competition series hosted by Graham Bunn features an all-star panel of judges including Owen and country music icons Shania Twain and Travis Tritt. Each week, the world-renowned panel will be joined by a celebrity guest. The judges collectively handpicked each of the twenty-nine hopeful acts who will appear on the eight-episode season in which they will battle it out to become country music’s next breakout musical act. The winning contenders of each week’s showcase will score a slot to perform at Stagecoach Music Festival, along with $10,000. You can watch the first episode here and tune in Tuesdays at 10/9c on USA Network to watch the competition unfold.

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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
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and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

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{WIN} iHeartCountry LIVE with Jake Owen Sweepstakes

Jake Owen Marathon iHeart

iHeartRadio and Marathon have teamed up to bring you their “Turn Miles into Music Sweepstakes” and if you’re a country music fan, you’ll be excited to hear about their exclusive iHeartCountry LIVE with Jake Owen Sweepstakes happening RIGHT NOW!

Owen’s latest single “Down To The Honkytonk”, is all about having a rowdy good time and hangin’ with friends. Owen is bringing the party to New York City and you can win your way in, VIP style. After all, who says you have to be in the south to go to a honky tonk?

During this intimate performance, which will take place at the iHeartRadio Theater (32 6th Ave, New York, NY 10013), Owen gets up close with a small group of his biggest fans and thanks to iHeartRadio and Marathon, you and a guest can not only be in the room to witness a magical night, but meet the country superstar as well!

Be one of only 200 fans at this exclusive and private event. The ‘Turn Miles into Music Sweepstakes’ includes roundtrip airfare, ground transportation to and from the event and two-night hotel accommodations as well as two tickets to iHeartCountry LIVE with Jake Owen… a once in a lifetime opportunity!

Marathon helps you make the most out of every mile you drive. So give your miles more meaning.

Click here to enter, by logging in with Facebook, Google or your iHeartRadio account.  This promotion runs through September 30th and a winner will be chosen and notified by iHeartRadio.

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Thank You for supporting Country Music in NYC!

Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
for ticket giveaways, meet & greet contests, upcoming events,
and all things country music in the New York metro area and beyond!

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Jake Owen Conquers Lower Broadway in “Down to the Honky Tonk” Video

Jake Owen always says you have to have a good party song and he has quite the list himself. Known for his own party songs like “Beachin”, “Real Life”, and “American Country Love Song” he surely knows how to pick them. In his video for his newest single “Down to the Honky Tonk”, Owen transforms into the king of downtown Nashville. The video takes you on a crazy, good-timing tour of the city’s famous Lower Broadway bar scene in the early hours of the morning.

Written by Rodney Clawson, Luke Laird, and Shane McAnally, the song is all about how Owen might not go down in history, but he sure knows how to feel like he’s on top of the world, or at least on top of a bar somewhere. The video is filled with pedal taverns, bachelorettes and plenty of characters with colorful personalities. The neon-themed video highlights the insanity of the downtown strip as Owen visits Broadway staples like Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge and Honky Tonk Central. Dancing on top of bars, crowd surfing, and drinking…a lot, the video highlights a good time in the chaos of downtown.

“Down to the Honky Tonk” follows Owen’s previous single, “I Was Jack (And You Were Diane),” the John Mellencamp-inspired hit which became Owen’s first Number One hit since 2016. Both new songs are expected to be part of a new upcoming album with Big Loud Records. Owen is currently out on his ‘Life’s Whatcha Make It’ Tour with Jordan Davis and Morgan Wallen, with dates scheduled through November 3rd in Pensacola, Florida. The entertainer will also be featured as a celebrity panelist, alongside Travis Tritt and Shania Twain, in the USA Network’s Real Country singing competition, which is set to premiere on November 13th.

Want to Win a VIP Trip to catch Jake Owen in New York City? Click Here for details and enter to win.

 

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NYCountry Swag’s Favorite Concerts of Summer 2018

Favorite Concerts Summer 2018

Christina Bosch: The Fest Featuring Brown and Gray, Mitchell Tenpenny, Russell Dickerson, and Dustin Lynch

This summer as Managing Editor for New York Country Swag we attended at least one show a week, sometimes two or three.  Narrowing my favorite concerts to one was a hard decision but as a big fan of rising artists, I think one of the greatest experiences we had was attending The Fest out on Long Island.  The lineup featured Brown and Gray, Mitchell Tenpenny, Russell Dickerson and Dustin Lynch.  Over the past year, we have seen each of these artists perform separately whether it was a Live Swag Session like we did here with Brown and Gray or Mitchell Tenpenny or catching Dustin Lynch at Playstation Theatre or Russell Dickerson at his sold-out NJ show.

Seeing them all on one stage was truly incredible, their unique talents and the different vibe each bring to the country music genre made for the perfect night of music.  Between Brown and Gray’s summer hit “Top Down” to Dickerson’s venue-wide sing-a-long to his latest single  “Blue Tacoma” the audience was loving these rising artists and the smash hits they are releasing.

 

 

Stephanie Wagner: Mitchell Tenpenny at Mercury Lounge

As Christina mentioned, we had the incredible opportunity to see so many amazing shows this summer. One of my favorite things to do with this company is to support rising artists which is what makes Mitchell Tenpenny’s Mercury Lounge show my favorite show of the summer.

We first worked with Mitchell back in December when we did a Live Swag Session in the heart of Times Square. This was before he had a song on the radio and before his record deal with Riser House/ Sony Nashville. I had been a fan of his since the first time I heard his music, so I was excited to work with him that day. To see how hard he has worked and watch his debut single hit the Top 20, makes me so proud of the artist and person he is. Tenpenny sold out his Mercury Lounge show two weeks before the date, which is a huge accomplishment for a new artist on a NYC play. There was a special sense of magic in the room that night catching Tenpenny’s performance while the packed house sang back every word to his hour long set. You only get to experience your ‘firsts’ once, so being in the room to experience Tenpenny’s first sold out headlining NYC show is a memory I will treasure.

 

 

Favorite Concerts Summer 2018

Crystal Fenton: Trip Around the Sun Tour Kenny Chesney

Seeing Kenny Chesney live has LONG been on my bucket list, so naturally, the Trip Around the Sun tour was my absolute favorite concert of summer 2018. Plus, with Old Dominion & Thomas Rhett as openers, even a multi-hour rain delay at MetLife stadium couldn’t damper (see what I did there?!) the vibe of No Shoes Nation. The show was amazing from start to finish. What a perfect & appropriate way to close out the summer while kicking off September, my birthday month where I’ll take another trip around the sun myself; My first Kenny show definitely won’t be the last!  For a full recap and more photos of the Metlife Stadium show, click here. 

 

 

Favorite Concerts Summer 2018

Photo by Matthew Paskert

Molly Holmberg: Jake Owen, Chris Janson, and Jordan Davis

Jake Owen has always been the barefoot blue jean icon in country music and when he takes the stage, he embraces that. During his “Life’s What You Make It” tour this summer he came out barefoot every night and ready for a party. Playing hits like “Good Company”, “Beachin’”, and even a mash-up between Eight Second Ride / Mountain Music / Tennessee River / Dixieland Delight, he puts on a show.

With opening acts Chris Janson and Jordan Davis, the night gets started with a kick. By the time Owen steps foot on stage, the fans have been on their feet the past two hours and are ready for more. The 37-year-old’s big smile with a loose and carefree attitude brings so much life and energy to the stage. He comes to not only entertain but to have a good time with the fans. He is engaging, charismatic, and an overall nice guy. His concert puts you in a feel-good mood by the end of the night. So if you are looking for a great concert, Jake Owen’s is definitely worth every penny.

Owen is putting out music that is real country. And real country is the reason Jake Owen’s future keeps looking promising. Check out his latest party song single “Down To The Honkytonk” here.

 

 

Favorite Concerts Summer 2018

Nicole Piering: The Bandwagon Tour Featuring Tenille Townes, Little Big Town, and Miranda Lambert

When it comes to summer in New York, Jones Beach is undoubtedly the best place to see a concert. While I attended quite a few this year, my favorite show of the summer was definitely Little Big Town and Miranda Lambert’s “The Bandwagon Tour.” For one, it was great to see these two superstar acts play at Jones Beach, but even better, the set they did together was electric. While both Lambert and LBT played their own shows, they also combined forces into an epic super-group for a 40-minute set that included some of their biggest hits and some incredible covers. “Boondocks” is always one of my favorite songs to hear live, and their joint covers of “Goodbye Earl,” “Say My Name,” and “Let’s Go Crazy” were all phenomenal. I’d love to see other acts join forces and make shows like this more popular in the future.  The full recap of The Bandwagon’s Jones Beach tour stop here.

 

 

Favorite Concerts Summer 2018

Nicole Sellati: CMA Fest

This year I was lucky enough to attend the music event of the summer, CMA Fest! This was easily my favorite week of the year! The week was jam-packed with amazing artists, going from concert to concert with no stopping. Some highlights for me were going inside to the fan fair as well as attend the fan parties of Michael Ray and Luke Bryan. These were the events I was looking forward to the most while in Nashville, getting to see the artists up close and personal in an intimate setting. Luke Bryan’s fan club party was in celebration of 10 years of the Nut House where he got to play an acoustic set, performing songs he hasn’t in years. CMA Fest as a whole was amazing but if I had to choose my favorite night at Nissan Stadium I would say Sunday was hands down the best. The last night had all my favorite artists starting with Brett Eldredge, Cole Swindell, Thomas Rhett, Dierks Bentley, Florida Georgia Line, and closing the night was Luke Bryan. It was a night I never wanted to end and thanks to Luke Bryan he made it last a little longer. He was just getting warmed up and ended up playing for over an hour closing out the best concert of my summer. CMA Fest was as perfect as I imagined and I can’t wait to be back next year!

 

 

Favorite Concerts Summer 2018

Shanna Vitaliano: Ashley McBryde at Taste of Country Music Festival

My favorite concert of the summer was seeing Ashley McBryde at Taste of Country Music Festival in Hunter Mountain, NY on June 9th. Ashley has an infectious personality onstage. She is down to earth, extremely humble, and her stage presence along with her sense of humor had every festival goer’s attention. Her incredible songwriting ability shined through during “The Jacket” and powerful voice captivated all during “American Scandal.” It was my first time seeing her live after being a fan of her album Girl Goin’ Nowhere and I look forward to seeing her again. Her next show in the NYC area will be December 5th at Gramercy Theatre, grab your tickets here.

 

Favorite Concerts Summer 2018

Danielle Tornatore: Sam Hunt and Kane Brown in Atlantic City

I attended almost twenty concerts this summer but my favorite had to be Sam Hunt and Kane Brown at Atlantic City BeachFest on July 1st. There are so many reasons why this was my favorite show, one being, I got to road trip there and back with two of my best friends. It’s about two and a half hours each way from us so we were able to make some great memories together. Between jamming out to some great music, sharing stories and just making each other laugh, it was overall a great trip. The day this show got announced, we knew we had to go. We’ve seen Sam Hunt together multiple times, but we had yet to see Kane Brown and he is one of our favorites. We missed Kane when he played at Irving Plaza in New York City in 2016 so we knew this was our perfect opportunity. It was literally 100 degrees out that day and the show was on the actual beach, toes in the sand and all, and despite the heatwave, both guys put on an incredible show which made me admire them even more. Myself, along with the rest of the crowd, were sweating. So much. But the two of them somehow made everyone forget about the weather and just get lost in the music. In the middle of Kane’s set, most of the sound equipment went out from the intense heat but he kept the show going and that is one of the many reasons why I am a huge fan of his. Sam was jumping all around the stage, as usual, during his entire set and maintained his high energy the whole time. It honestly was a day I will never forget and another memory I’ve gained with my best friends.

 

 

Favorite Concerts Summer 2018

Erica Zisman: CMAFest (Lee Brice at HGTV Lodge)

Public service announcement: Go to Country Music Association Fest (CMA Fest) in Nashville, Tennessee at least once. Although there are a ton of wonderful concerts held in New York, especially those good ole’ country shows at Jones Beach Amphitheater on Long Island, CMA Fest is a once (or more if you’re lucky) in a lifetime experience for any country music lover. The four-day festival combines some of the biggest names in country music, such as Florida Georgia Line and Thomas Rhett, with new artists and up and coming artists, like Dylan Scott and Morgan Wallen, into a musical extravaganza. The event is packed with free shows all day long, free shows at night, and the ticketed Nissan Stadium line up.

I was able to experience CMA Fest for the second time this summer. One of my favorite free venues is the HGTV Lodge, which is an intimate venue that gets you up close and personal with an artist, while the singer performs acoustically. I was able to see Lee Brice perform, for the first time in June. Hearing some of his hits: “Drinking Class”, “Love Like Crazy”, and his most recent single, “Rumor”, live and stripped down, was one of my favorite concert moments of the summer. Brice was extremely charming, poised, and humble; despite, his major success and even opened the doors to extra fans, who were unable to get into the lodge, due to it being over capacity. Being able to relate to Brice’s songs, but also, Brice as a human being was a really special moment for me and my friends. It was a “concert” I will never forget.

 

 

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Subscribe to our Weekly Round-Up here 
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Our Favorite Songs From Summer 2018

As summer 2018 comes to a close, our team of writers have each chosen a song that they loved to listen to this summer, whether it was a song they heard at a concert, had a special moment with a special someone, or a song they listened to while driving around with their windows down.

Check out our picks for the best songs of Summer 2018, then be sure to give our Spotify account a follow and listen to our favorite tracks!

 

Stephanie Wagner: “Blue Tacoma” – Russell Dickerson

“My favorite song of summer 2018 has to be “Blue Tacoma” recorded by Russell Dickerson who co-wrote the tune with Casey Robert Brown and Parker Welling. These are the same songwriters who brought you Dickerson’s very first single and first number one, “Yours” off his debut album.  His second single to country radio is once again a love song, but this time with being carefree, driving down the beautiful coast of California.  The picturesque lyrics make for the perfect ‘sing at the top of your lungs’ vibe and makes you want to turn the volume up to 11.  It’s no secret that I am a huge fan of Russell Dickerson after working with him on our very first event and then some, but being able to finally hear this on radio makes it one of my favorite songs of summer 2018. ”

 

Christina Bosch: “Top Down” – Brown & Gray

“I first heard this song in the dead of winter wearing a giant coat waiting for my car to heat up and thinking to myself, I can not wait to roll my windows down this summer and have this one on full volume driving to the beach.  Brown & Gray, a duo made up of Kaci Brown and Sam Gray told NYCountry Swag about their inception as a group during our Live Swag Session in December and since then they have traveled the country together performing at festivals and concerts promoting their debut EP.  “Top Down” is the quintessential summer song perfect for tailgates and the wind in your hair.”

 

Nicole Bochinis: “All to Myself” – Dan + Shay

““All to Myself” by Dan + Shay is one of those songs that I could have on repeat all day and never get tired of. I first heard it during CMA Fest in Nashville at their album listening party. This song is one of my favorites off of their self-titled album Dan + Shay, however, it didn’t mean as much to me until I met my boyfriend. It was one of the first songs we heard while driving around with the windows down. I looked at him and said “This is our song.” Since then, we listen to it every time we are driving and sing at the top of our lungs. This song is not just my favorite song of the summer, it is hands down one of my favorite songs ever.”

 

Kelly Cunningham: “If I Know Me” – Morgan Wallen

“”If I Know Me” By Morgan Wallen was my song of the summer. Even though his whole album is golden, this title track caught my attention. When I first heard it when his album came out, I knew it’d be something special. It shows his southern roots with a mix of rock. It also has that catchy, upbeat melody that would be perfect for his next single.”

 

Taylor Felvey: “Must Be the Whiskey” – Cody Jinks

“When you think of a summer country hit, nothing says summer more than a song about drinking! “Must Be The Whiskey” is a song recorded by Cody Jinks an ex-metal rocker turned country rocker.  It tells the story of a lover battling with why his relationship is over and what was real to begin with. Was it love? Was it lust? Or was it the whiskey? You can’t go into a bar in Fort Worth, Texas without hearing this song from native Texan Jinks.  Once you hear the hook you’ll find yourself humming and singing it all day long “I’ve been drinkin’ to remember and drinkin’ to forget / I got “I love you” on my mind, I got Jim Beam on my breath”.”

 

Crystal Fenton: “Talk You Out Of It” – Florida Georgia Line

“”Talk You Out Of It” by Florida Georgia Line is my favorite song of the summer. It’s got such a cool, sexy, unusual (for Florida Georgia line) vibe that conjures up (in my mind, anyway) sultry summer nights, plus the seductive tones of Barry White/Luther Vandross. Summer is all about turning up the heat and this is the perfect song to make you want to chill out, pop a bottle and call that special someone to come over, immediately.”

 

Molly Holmberg: “Downtown’s Dead” – Sam Hunt

“It had been 15 months since Sam Hunt had released music following his megahit “Body Like a Back Road,” which came out in 2017. Fans were anxiously waiting for new music from the superstar who seemed to disappear. After wiping clean his entire Instagram account, the singer/songwriter solely focused on marketing his new song with pictures of what appears to be a Spanish inspired town. Warm tones, desert vibes, and desolation were prominent, leaving fans up for interpretation.

Hunt released his new single “Downtown’s Dead”, just in time for summer – which for me was an automatic download after just one listen. The chorus has an unforgettable catchy tone and the flow of the music will make you want to put it on repeat, without even realizing it. Hunt has always given his songs a great storyline, this one included, making people want to listen to the very end.  “Downtown’s Dead” depicts the story of a girl leaving and now nothing seems alive without her. Despite being in the midst of clubs with strobe lights and house music, the feeling of emptiness is depicted with the lines “Everywhere I go looks like the place to be I see people that I know and I feel like there’s no one here but me.”  As a country/pop crossover, this is just the song to add to any playlist.”

 

Nicole Piering: “Tequila” – Dan + Shay

“For Dan + Shay, “Tequila” was a huge hit, and their first multi-week number one, but for me, the song was one of my most played and also provided one of my favorite concert moments of the summer. The duo opened for Rascal Flatts at Jones Beach in July, and while their entire set was a memorable one, it was “Tequila” that truly stood out. There is nothing like witnessing an entire crowd sing along to every word in a song, and that’s exactly what happened at this concert. In fact, it would’ve been possible for Shay Mooney to stop singing and hold the microphone out to the audience for the entire song, but he didn’t, joining the crowd in the epic singalong. Forget beer and whiskey in 2018, this year was truly the summer of “Tequila.”

 

Nicole Sellati: “Fan Girl” – Michael Ray

“After seeing Michael Ray perform “Fan Girl” five times in one week it quickly secured its spot as my favorite song of the summer. There’s something about his energy onstage that transitions into his music and this song in particular. I love the fact that it’s such a catchy upbeat song that fits perfectly with the passion fans feel when watching their favorite artists on stage. When he sings, “You give me that front-row feeling, screaming with my hands up / walk in the room and everybody stands up / you got my heart singing whoa-oh-oh-oh”, it tells the story about being a fan in that moment. As an artist, he was able to turn the table on himself showing that he truly understands what it’s like to have the passion us fans have. Because of this “Fan Girl” is one of my go-to songs to blast while driving, along with the rest of the album Amos!”

 

Danielle Tornatore: “Shoot Me Straight” – Brothers Osborne

“There were hundreds of songs on my playlist this summer and choosing just one to be my soundtrack of the past few months was a difficult decision. But, the one I could always put on whether I was getting ready to go somewhere, in the car, laying by the pool, or just hanging out in my room, was “Shoot Me Straight” by Brothers Osborne. This song is THE definition of a jam and even makes for a great tailgating song. The lyrics are great, I love when metaphors and similes are used in songs instead of being straightforward about a situation, which is ironic considering the message of this particular song. And don’t even get me started with the four minute guitar solo. Genius and insane are a few words that come to mind when trying to describe how amazing it truly is. As if I didn’t love this song enough, they recently released a hilarious music video for it and my love grew even more. I cannot wait to see and hear the song live next month when these guys open for Dierks Bentley at Madison Square Garden.”

 

Erica Zisman: “I Was Jack (You Were Diane)” – Jake Owen

“One of my favorite parts about country music is how the songs really become an anthem of your life! “I Was Jack (You Were Diane)” by Jake Owen is certainly one of those anthems. I especially enjoy the collaboration of musical inspiration the writers and Owen took from singer John Mellencamp’s previously recorded song.

I became enamored with Owen’s song, after heading to CMA Fest 2018, and meeting (by happenstance), one of the songwriters, David Ray. Besides being a great singer himself, (Bonus- check out his infectious song “Light It Up”) Ray helped co-write this number 1 single and could not be more humble about it.

The song is the perfect reminder that the innocence from our pasts help shape who we are now. Also, the music video is super fun and nostalgic. “Kind like those songs that saved our souls.””

 

 

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Jake Owen New Music

[Listen] Jake Owen Releases Two New Songs “I Was Jack (You Were Diane)” & “Something To Ride To”

Jake Owen I was Jack

Just a few days after announcing his summer tour “Life’s Whatcha Make It,” with Chris Janson and Jordan Davis, Jake Owen has released two brand new songs, “I Was Jack (You Were Diane)” and “Something to Ride To”.  These singles are the first with his new record label, Big Loud Records after over a decade with RCA Nashville.

The first is an ode in every way to the classic Mellencamp song “Jack and Diane”, filled with nostalgic moments and familiar guitar riffs.

“Do you turn it up? / Do you sing along? / Every time you hear that song / Like we did then / Like we did when, / Do you close your eyes? / Does it make you laugh? / Do the memories take you back / To six-packs and a Chevy Cheyenne / Way back / When I was Jack / And you were Diane.”

It’s already apparent that this will be a great song for Owen to sing out on tour, and fans of his earlier singles like “Beachin” and “Barefoot Blue Jean Night” will fall in love with the approach to new music.

The second single released this morning, “Something to Ride To” is definitely a track you can turn up while driving around town.  Owen sings about wanting to get his mind off of heartbreak, looking for an escape from the love songs.

“Give me something to ride to and forget about life to /  the kind you want to get high too  / lay back in the night too, Yeah used to be dance songs, slow jams and romance songs / but now that she’s gone and the radios on yeah, I just want one that don’t sing about her, give me something to ride to”

If these two songs are any indication of what’s to come from Owen, fans can look forward to great songs with even better melodies. For tour dates, tickets and more info head to jakeowen.net/events.

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