Here are five new country and Americana songs we have on heavy rotation.
Kellie Pickler, "If It Wasn't For a Woman"
Kellie Pickler has steady been releasing heartfelt and honest country albums. Her 2012 album 100 Proof and 2013's The Woman I Am are both triumphs for traditional, lyrics-driven country music. Though there's no word on a new album from Pickler, the singer is giving fans a glimpse of what's to come with the gorgeous autobiographical tune "If It Wasn't For a Woman." The song was written about Pickler's grandmother, who helped raise her as a child. Fair warning: you're gonna need the Kleenex for this one.
Kendell Marvel, "Watch Your Heart"
Nashville songwriting veteran Kendell Marvel released his long-awaited album Lowdown & Lonesome last week. The album, filled with gritty, southern-born tales and honky tonk lullabies, is a winner from start to finish. But the Waylon Jennings-esque "Watch Your Heart" is a candidate for the album's best moment.
Caroline Spence, "Secret Garden"
Caroline Spence's incredible album Spades & Roses was one of 2016's best releases. Needless to say, we're thrilled to hear more music from Spence from that same recording session. Last week, Spence released Secret Garden (B-Sides From Spades & Roses), a collection of acoustic cuts of songs from Spades & Roses and one stellar cover of Bruce Springsteen's 1995 single "Secret Garden." The mesmerizing take on the classic track is sure to make The Boss proud.
Turnpike Troubadours, "Pipe Bomb Dream"
The Turnpike Troubadours' upcoming album A Long Way From Your Heart (out Oct. 20) is one of the most anticipated country albums of the year. Thankfully, the boys from Oklahoma haven't been shy about sharing new tunes along the way. "Pipe Bomb Dream," a western-tinged track in the vein of Steve Earle's "Guitar Town," is one of the more upbeat tracks we've heard from the record so far. But in true Turnpike fashion, the song has a serious message.
Travis Meadows, "Hungry"
Travis Meadows has spent the last couple decades as a sought after Nashville songwriter, penning hit songs for Eric Church and Dierks Bentley and earning accolades across Music City for his raw and honest lyrics. Last week, Meadows released First Cigarette, a gripping collection of songs of hope and redemption. "Hungry," a track about pushing through the tough times to come out better on the other side.
