As the new year comes along, there's plenty of new country music releases to listen to - we've rounded up the best ones!
From stalwarts like Willie Nelson to country newcomers like Post Malone, there's loads of albums and singles to listen to.
Read on to find out what's hot in the world of American country music...
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Four new albums you need to stream
Riley Green: Don’t Mind If I Do
This 18 track album is a well-tuned odyssey across heartbreak and pain but also good times and laughter. Riley has been steadily building up his fan base since 2018, and there’s a reason why his concerts routinely sell out - he always delivers. The standout track of this album is still Don't Mind If I Do with newcomer Ella Langley.
Willie Nelson: Last Leaf On The Tree
This is Willie’s 153rd album, yet he still manages to create something new and masterful every time. This album is a collaboration between Nelson and his son Micah (Particle Kid), which has resulted in a more stripped down sound that allows Willie and his guitar Trigger to shine through.
Jelly Roll: Beautifully Broken (Pickin’ Up The Pieces)
Jelly Roll’s rise from underground hip hop artist to one of country’s most beloved fingers has been nothing short of meteoric. The opening track, Winning Streak, is a searingly honest look at Jelly’s battles with substance abuse and addiction, and the rest of the album is similarly vulnerable.
Kelsea Ballerini: PATTERNS
This seasoned star has really found her voice on this latest album, which is a perfect blend of traditional country and modern synthesisers. Our favourite track is the Noah Kahan duet, Cowboys Cry Too.
Three new songs you need to hear
Cody Johnson: Overdue
This country song contains elements that all fans of the genre love: a good story, traditional instruments like the steel guitar and fiddle, and a classic cadence. We love this retro sound!
Ella Langley: 20-20
This new single is off Ella’s deluxe, expanded version of her album, still hungover. This more contemporary-sounding track still allows Ella’s voice to shine through. The song recalls a lost love and lessons learned the hard way.
Belle Frantz: Hello Darlin’
This song first went viral on TikTok and it’s like Belle stepped straight out of the 1960s. This incredible cover of Conway Twitty’s classic lets Belle’s powerhouse voice take over, with simple guitar plucking complimenting her soaring vocals.
Four current country airplay top four
Post Malone and Morgan Wallen: I Had Some Help
Zach Bryan: High Road
Chris Stapleton: Tennessee Whiskey
Sam Barber: Thought Of You
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