Country rocker Koe Wetzel heads back to Country Radio with brand-new single “Hurts Like You,”serving as the first release from his upcoming album, The Night Champion, dropping June 12. The new track follows Wetzel’s massive success with hit song “High Road” featuring Jessie Murph, which spent five straight weeks at No. 1 and became the most-played song on Country Radio in 2025.
Written by Wetzel alongside Ashley Gorley, Steph Jones, Carrie K and producer Gabe Simon, “Hurts Like You” leans into the gritty, hard-hitting sound that is undeniably Koe Wetzel, while also showcasing an emotional and vulnerable side through sharp, well-placed lyrics that bring the song full circle.
“‘Hurts Like You’ was one of the first songs that we wrote for the record,” Wetzel recalls. “It’s kind of about a toxic relationship; whenever you get into those situations, you know it’s not good for you, but there’s just something about it that keeps bringing you back. It’s hard to get away from. I feel like a lot of people go through that, so I hope people can relate to the way that we felt about it.”
The Night Champion, comprised of 11 tracks, marks a new chapter for the singer/songwriter. While the new album builds off 9 Lives, it brings a fresh chapter that showcases the growth and evolution of Koe and his artistry.
“It’s a continuation of 9 Lives, from that record to now,” Koe says. “Really, it’s everything that’s happened – because you don’t go from kids playing for beer to headlining Red Rocks, arenas all over the country, partying and trying to make sense of it all and not shift. My head space is clearer now. I can look back, see how it fits together. It doesn’t make sense, exactly, but it all happened. That search for what it all means keeps bringing me back.”
“I’m not torn between the worlds,” Wetzel continues. “This is where all the fans meet. No matter when they got here, this is that moment.”
Koe Wetzel will be highlighting his new music on the road this year with The Night Champion World Tour. For a full list of tour dates and ticket information, visit KoeWetzelMusic.com.