Country Music Rocks “Artists To Watch” In 2018

2017 paved the way for what will be an undeniably epic year for country music in 2018. The level of artistry continues to grow leaps and bounds, and the genre is on a continuous rise. We’ve got the Who, What {songs you’ve may have heard and/or need to hear} Why & Where {all the social platforms you can follow each artist on) for 12 Artists that we’ll be watching and listening to all throughout 2018! Their year is going to be huge, so be sure to follow each artist along on what will be an epic journey.

Country Music Rocks “Artists To Watch – 2018”
(listed in alphabetical order by last name)

WHO: Jimmie Allen
WHAT: “Blue Jean Baby” & “Underdogs”
WHY: Jimmie Allen’s talents knows no bounds, just like his work ethic. The hardworking country newcomer released his debut self-titled EP in the fall of 2017 without any major promotion, but with a lot of hard work and perseverance. Throughout the 5 songs on his EP, Jimmie Allen makes an impressive impact. The artist on the rise will become a recognizable name, and voice, as he starts his journey into an exciting year ahead.
WHERE: jimmieallenmusic.com, facebook.com/jimmieallenmusic, twitter.com/JimmieAllen, instagram.com/jimmieallen

Drew BaldridgeWHO: Drew Baldridge
WHAT: “Guns & Roses” & “Rebound”
WHY: Drew Baldridge is a talented artist that brings heart and soul to country music. His debut album, Dirt On Us, proves to be a well-rounded collection of music, and makes a prominent mark on the genre. The momentum will no doubt continue for Baldridge throughout 2018 as he works on his sophomore album, featuring lead single “Guns & Roses,” and continues to further expand his fan base. His live performances are ones not to be missed, so be sure to check his tour schedule often to see if he’s heading to a city near you.
WHERE: drewbaldridgemusic.com, facebook.com/DrewBaldridgeMusic, twitter.com/drewrbaldridge, instagram.com/drewbaldridgemusic

Jordan DavisWHO: Jordan Davis
WHAT: “Singles You Up” & “Take It From Me”
WHY: Louisiana native Jordan Davis is a talented singer/songwriter that fans will enjoy getting to know even further throughout this year. The artist on the rise is gearing up to release his debut album featuring hit single, “Singles You Up.” His passion for songwriting goes deep and that will certainly be highlighted on this first album. Fans will be able to see his passion even more on his just announced White Wine & Whiskey Tour this winter. As Davis gears up to embark on an exciting year, the country newcomer most definitely has a bright future ahead in country music.
WHERE:  jordandavisofficial.com, facebook.com/jordandavisofficial, twitter.com/JordanCWDavis,  instagram.com/jordandavisofficial

WHO: Devin Dawson
WHAT: “All On Me” & “Dark Horse”
WHY: With his debut album Dark Horse slated for release on January 19, Devin Dawson is set to make an impact on the genre. Co-writing all 12 tracks on his forthcoming album, listeners will really get to know the country newcomer throughout his music. Dawson has a lot of value to offer with his music, and it will be an exciting year watching the artist on the rise continue to grow and evolve.
WHERE:  devindawsonmusic.com  facebook.com/devindawsonmusic, twitter.com/zdevin,  instagram.com/zdevin

Morgan EvansWHO: Morgan Evans
WHAT: “Kiss Somebody” & “I Do”
WHY: Hailing from the land down under, Australian native Morgan Evans brings his smooth vocals to the U.S. and we are so excited. With the release of his debut single “Kiss Somebody,” Evans has already made a lasting impression, not just on Kelsea Ballerini (his wife!), but also on the genre. Morgan will further introduce his new music throughout his live performances, and will hit the road on Chris Young’s Losing Sleep Tour starting in April. The talented artist will continue to captivate the country music community all throughout the year.
WHERE: morganevansmusic.com,  facebook.com/morganevansmusic,  instagram.com/morganevansmusic, twitter.com/morgan_evans

Walker HayesWHO: Walker Hayes
WHAT: “You Broke Up With Me” & “Beer In The Fridge”
WHY: Walker Hayes is no stranger to the industry. While 2017 proved to be a turning point for the rising star, 2018 may be a complete game-changer for Walker. With his unique characteristics that he brings to his music, Hayes stands out and brings a progressive vibe for listeners to enjoy.  Walker will showcase his new music on the road throughout the year, and is set to join Kelsea Ballerini’s Unapologetically Tour staring in February.
WHERE: walkerhayes.com,  facebook.com/walkerhayes,  twitter.com/walkerhayes,  instagram.com/walkerhayes

Jillian JacquelineWHO: Jillian Jacqueline
WHAT: “Reasons” & “God Bless This Mess”
WHY: Jillian Jacqueline gives us multiple “reasons” why folks should have their ears tuned in and eyes on her. The rising star delivers a beautiful essence to the country music genre, and has a voice that many will come to know and love. 2018 will be another impressive year for Women In Country, and Jillian certainly adds to the excitement as the dynamic artist further introduces her talents and makes a distinct impact on the country music community. Catch Jillian out on the road all throughout the year, including dates with Jordan Davis’ White Wine and Whiskey Tour this winter, and Brett Eldredge’s The Long Way Tour this spring. 
WHERE: https://www.jillianjacqueline.com,  facebook.com/JillianJMusic, twitter.com/jillianjmusic,  instagram.com/jillianjacqueline

Brandon LayWHO: Brandon Lay
WHAT: “Speakers, Bleachers and Preachers” & “Let It”
WHY: Brandon Lay made a big impression at country radio with the release of his debut single, “Speakers, Bleachers and Preachers” during the summer of 2017. In fact, the song was the most added track to country radio during its release week. The artist on the rise certainly brings something special to country music, and Kenny Chesney must think so too! Lay is set to join Chesney’s massive Trip Around The Sun Tour this summer where he will further introduce himself while showcasing his fresh, new music.
WHERE: facebook.com/brandonlaymusic, brandonlay.com,  instagram.com/brandonlaymusic, twitter.com/brandonlay

WHO: Ashley McBryde
WHAT: “A Little Dive Bar in Dahlonega” & “Girl Goin’ Nowhere”
WHY: Ashley McBryde is exactly what country music needs. Her unique vocals, coupled with strong songs, gives listeners the depth they’ve been craving when it comes to music. Ashley will shine bright on the road in 2018, starting with hitting the road with Luke Combs on his Don’t Tempt Me With A Good Time Tour. McBryde makes for a valuable addition to the country music genre, and 2018 will likely be a notable year for the rising star.
WHERE:  www.ashleymcbryde.com,  facebook.com/ashleymcbryde,  twitter.com/AshleyMcBryde,  instagram.com/ashleymcbryde

Walker McGuire WHO: Walker McGuire
WHAT: “Lost” & “Til Tomorrow”
WHY: Up and coming country duo, Walker McGuire, started to introduce themselves throughout 2017 with their debut single, “Til Tomorrow.” Well, “tomorrow” has arrived and Walker McGuire is gearing up to leave their mark on country music. Comprised of Jordan Walker and Johnny McGuire, the duo will highlight their impressive harmonies throughout their self-titled debut EP, slated for release on January 12. Additionaly, Jordan and Johnny will impact country radio with their brand new single, “Lost,” on January 16. Walker McGuire is already off to a great start, and their momentum will continue to grow throughout the year.
WHERE: facebook.com/walkermcguire2102, instagram.com/walkermcguire, twitter.com/walkermcguire, walkermcguire.com

Jackson Michelson Photo Credit Cameron PowellWHO: Jackson Michelson
WHAT: “Rollin'” & “Your Love”
WHY: Jackson Michelson has been hard at work honing his craft through the years. His dedication and determination has paid off which we began to see (and hear) during 2017. With the new year upon us, Michelson is ready to get rollin’ into to 2018 and leave a lasting impression along the way.
SOCIALS: facebook.com/jacksonmichelsonmusic,  jacksonmichelson.com  twitter.com/jackmic,  instagram.com/jacksonmichelson

Carly PearceWHO: Carly Pearce
WHAT: “Every Little Thing” & “Hide The Wine”
WHY: The question really should be, why not?! Stepping into the scene in early 2017 as a solo artist on Big Machine Records label, Carly Pearce has been a force to be reckoned with. Making a signifcant impact with the release of her debut single, “Every Little Thing,” Pearce held her own on the charts as she climbed to No. 1. The momentum is set to progress for the rising star all throughout 2018 as she continues to grow and showcase her skilled artistry. Carly Pearce will be on the road all througout 2018, and is set to join  Blake Shelton’s Country Music Freaks Tour and Thomas Rhett’s Life Changes Tour.
WHERE: facebook.com/CarlyPearceMusic, twitter.com/carlypearce, instagram.com/carlypearce, carlypearce.com

Hunter Hayes To Release New Single “This Girl” on January 12

Five-time GRAMMY© nominee Hunter Hayes releases the third installment of his music series this Friday, January 12 with “This Girl.” Co-written by Jordan Schmidt, Andy Albert and Jessie Jo Dillon, the track follows the 2017 release of “More” and “You Should Be Loved (feat. The Shadowboxers)”.

With lyrics like: Yeah, I swear that I’d trade everything I chase/ They could take it all away/ long as I get to love this girl, “This Girl” highlights Hayes’ guitar-playing and his rich, up-tempo vocals.
 
“‘This Girl’ was such a fun song to write. Musically, going back to the roots of stuff I grew up listening to, and lyrically highlighting that side of someone that you only get to see when you’ve known each other for a while and how special those moments can be,” says Hayes. “I’m also extremely excited for everyone to see how ‘Pictures’ finishes with this music video!”
 
The release of “This Girl” follows two installments of his three-part mini-movie “Pictures.” Forbes launched the mini-movie in November also revealing that the culmination of “Pictures” will be a one-time, only mini-motion picture event in Nashville complete with the director, screenwriter, cast and a live performance from Hayes himself. 
 
Praised by Entertainment Weekly as “an undeniable songwriting talent,” Hayes “has proved himself seemingly effortlessly as a true musical phenomenon” (Yahoo Music) and continues to deliver innovative avenues to share his music with fans across the country. Follow along as he reveals audio for the third installment in the mini-movie this Friday.

Dan + Shay Set To Introduce Brand New Single, “Tequila”

As Dan + Shay (Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney) teased on social media last week, fans are just days away from a taste of the duo’s brand new music. “Tequila,” their first offering in nearly a year, will be available to radio and all streaming partners this Wednesday, January 10. Co-written by Smyers alongside Jordan Reynolds and Nicolle Galyon, the reflective single is much more than just your typical drinking song.

The breakout duo are amping up the momentum from an exceptional 2017, which saw them amass more than 230 million streams, sell out shows in four international territories and earn a half-dozen award nominations – all between celebrating two marriages and a baby. The first new country duo in SoundScan recorded history to debut at No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Albums Chart, Dan + Shay collected their second RIAA Platinum certification in 2017 for “From The Ground Up,” the first single off of their sophomore Warner Bros. / Warner Music Nashville release Obsessed. Soon after they notched their third consecutive No. 1 song with the Gold-certified “How Not To.”

Dan + Shay are currently in the studio working on their upcoming project, due later this year.

Brett Young Scores 3rd No. 1 Single with “Like I Loved You”

“Hitmaker” (Tennessean) Brett Young continues to take “Country radio by storm” (Billboard) earning his third consecutive No. 1 with “Like I Loved You.” Young wrote the GOLD-certified tune alongside Jesse Lee, which climbed to the top spot on both the Mediabase and Billboard Country Airplay Charts where it has remained for the past three weeks.

“This was such awesome news to start the new year,” Young said. “I’m genuinely blown away and so thankful to my fans and Country radio for their continued support of my music.”

Already earning the No. 1 spot on Shazam’s Country Chart, Marie Claire named “Like I Loved You” as the top Country Song of 2017 Worth Listening To. The trajectory follows his previous chart-toppers – PLATINUM-selling lead single “Sleep Without You” and 2X PLATINUM smash “In Case You Didn’t Know,” the first Country song released in 2017 to reach PLATINUM-certification status and one of only two Country songs released last year to earn the honor.

“Destined for mass appeal,” (Rolling Stone) Young released his “soothing, approachable” (New York Times) self-titled debut album on BMLG Records. The GOLD-certified album became an instant success leading to breakout hit “In Case You Didn’t Know” being listed in The New York Times 54 Best Songs of 2017, touted as “one of this year’s most impressive pop songs.” Amazon Music named the track as the Top Country Song of 2017 while Pandora listeners also recognized Young’s tune in the Top 50 of their all-genre Top Thumb Hundred list. The song’s official music video was greeted with matched enthusiasm, surpassing 160 million+ views since its release and landing among Vevo’s top all-genre videos of 2017. Young is also the only artist to have two videos on Vevo’s Top Country Videos Chart for 2017.

Lanco Sends New Single “Born To Love You” To Country Radio

Building on the momentum started with the multi-week PLATINUM No. One, “Greatest Love Story,” Sony Music Nashville’s buzz band LANCO releases their new single “Born To Love You” to Country radio today. Produced by Jay Joyce and written by lead singer Brandon Lancaster, Ross Copperman, Ashley Gorley and Josh Osborne, the unconventional track is the next taste of new music off their debut release, HALLELUJAH NIGHTS available January 19th.

“Born To Love You” continues the through line found across the record, as the “infectious love song” (American Songwriter) opens the sequence and immediately “puts the focus on anthems, the band’s specialty,” (Rolling Stone). HALLELUJAH NIGHTS is now available for pre-order and digital pre-save on LANCOMusic.com and at all retailers. With the digital pre-order, fans receive instant downloads of five songs from the upcoming album including “Born to Love You.” 

“‘Born To Love You’ tells another piece of LANCO’s story…who we all are, the small towns we came from and the search for what the world has to offer,” said lead singer Brandon Lancaster. “This song brings together those early experiences with finding that person who makes it all matter…the person that you were born to love. We spent a couple of weeks writing this one, and in the studio, we got to explore a lot of different sounds on it.”

“Born To Love You” “provides a bridge from the laid-back vibe of that first hit to the more energetic moments in LANCO’s musical repertoire and live show,” (Rare). As the five-man band kick off their first run of 2018 this Thursday (1/11) in Indianapolis, IN, on Chris Young’s LOSING SLEEP WORLD TOUR, they will bring that same “live show energy that is going to build their fan base in a hurry,” (Tucson Weekly). As a co-writer of all eleven songs on HALLELUJAH NIGHTS, Lancaster’s Nashville hometown roots and authentic style has resonated with fans through the warm introductory of “Greatest Love Story,” as the “gifted storyteller” (Taste of Country) solely penned the two-week PLATINUM No. One. The recent accolade marked LANCO as the only Country Band in history to earn a PLATINUM single prior to a debut album release.