#NewMusicMonday is officially on Christmas break , but we wanted to congratulate the #NewMusicMonday featured artists Little Big Town , Cam , Elle King , Chris Stapleton , Sam Hunt , Taylor Swift , Tori Kelly , Lauren Dagle , Carrie Underwood , & Kacey Musgraves on their 2016 Grammy nominations !!!!!! Congrats y'all !!! So exciting and so deserved ! Hope you all get time to enjoy this amazing moment ! Can't wait to see the list of performers . I fully expect to see several of the names above on it . If you wanna see what all the fuss is about feel free to check the #NewMusicMonday archives here at The Faith Journals for clips and fun facts on the artists listed above as well as many others . Also , don't forget , as a radio listener and music lover you have the power to get your fave artists on air . Call , text , tweet , e-mail , insta , fb , even snail mail will work to get the songs and artists you wanna hear on rotation . This is one of the easiest / most inexpensive / and quickest ways to show support for your favorite artists . Request now !!! Here are just a few clips of a few of the nominated artists .
Perhaps one of the more difficult directives we will ever be given . It is a task to not allow ourselves to simply melt into the mold this world has created for us and the expectations it has put on us . Graduate at this age . Go to this college . Get this job . Marry . Have babies . Have grand babies . Retire comfortably . So on , so forth . But God has not called us to a neatly scheduled life . When we buck the " norm " of this world to pursue after Gods " norm " ( and I use the word lightly ) for our life it can make folks uncomfortable . It is frightening to see someone going against the grain confidently . Well , if I have learned anything in the last four years it is I do not mind to live a life that scares or makes people uncomfortable if I am living a life I am confident He is taking part in . Not falling into the worlds idea of what my life should be is a daily task . At any moment I could throw my hands in the air and say , " Fine ! I'll just do what everyone else is doing " . But I know in my heart I was called to be different . Right now that " different " is the schedule of my life . I skipped past a few things on the " worlds " list of who I should be and what I should be doing at this current time in the life line . But In a month , year , 2 years the different I am living may be , well....different . My prayer for you this week is that you would find the strength or keep hold of the strength to continue your pursuit of Gods " norm " for you and that you would not be tempted by the worlds idea of " norm " . You are not alone . He is FOR you and WITH you . If you know NOTHING else about His calling and plans for your life KNOW this , you were not called to conform to this worlds idea of " norm " . I hate to go all mom talk on ya , but if all your friends jumped off a bridge would you ??!! Square pegs rule !!! Let no one make you feel like less for being who God made you and for following His call on your life .
As you all know , I love me a holiday. Particularly Christmas . I don't exactly know why it makes me so happy, but it just does . The twinkly lights , the permission to decorate all things with glitter , the sweet treats everywhere , fond memories of Christmas ' past or maybe the excitement of a new year and fresh start ahead . Whatever it is I have found myself wanting to spread that cheer......( for all to hear , how was I to resist quoting Elf ?! ) . I've been saying Merry Christmas since December 1st . Right after thank you or have a good day or whatever other greeting is exchanged I follow it up with Merry Christmas ! Something that I have noticed , more so this year than ever before , is the actual surprise on folks face when I say it . Then the almost relieved tone in their voice when saying it back or saying " Thank You " in return . Its been so thought provoking for me . It is almost as if everyone is waiting for permission . Permission to express their joy , permission to say something semi-religious or spiritual , or just permission to be kind . I don't know . Its just so odd to me . I don't think I am even explaining it properly I am so baffled by it . I feel like with every surprised reaction the Lord is saying to me , " Yes . Keep reminding them . Keep loving them in this simple way . Keep surprising them with the reminder of the " reason for the season " . " If that makes any sense to ya . So , Merry Christmas loved ones ! I hope your holiday season is a merry and bright one . Lets not forget the true reason we have to celebrate . Spread His joy with someone today .
I am dedicating this weeks #NewMusicMonday to Santa and the wish lists we send him each year . Now , I don't know about you , but I am positive I am on the nice list . I'm almost sure of it . I mean , other than that one thing , that one time at that place ...... I have been super nice all year . Enough about me . It isn't too late to add any of these sweet selections to your wish list . Below are artists that have been featured on #NewMusicMonday , CD's or downloads that I already have and feel you should too , and/or are on my wish list as well . Cause I mean , what am I , a Rockefeller ?! SideNote : I have been struggling with a migraine all weekend . So , if any of my written thoughts make no sense , let us choose , at least for this week , to blame my #MigraineBrain . Now , onto wicked sweet tunes .
Lets go ahead and state the obvious.....
Kip Moore - Wild Ones - If you thought any other artist would be on the top of my list you have not been paying attention . First of all , the in store cut and the online cuts of this album are different . If you purchase the download deluxe version you get three more tracks than what is on the in hand version . I of course own both . I don't even care if you judge me . Going through my CD bin I found three , I repeat THREE of the same Keith Urban album . I have no clue how I got two of them . Clearly I have hoarding issues as well as musical FOMO (Fear Of Missing Out) . So , owning only two of Wild Ones is actually progress . The Wild Ones tour just finished its' Fall leg and will hit the road again in 2016 headed to mid - America , Canada , and the West Coast . I also believe they may be doing some Aussie dates . You can check Kips site www.kipmoore.net for further details , purchasing tickets , etc . would make for a great Valentines present . Yes , once again , I am already thinking of Valentines ideas . I'm a pre-planner and can't control it .
Kip Moore - Running For You - Current Single
CALL AND REQUEST IT ASAP!!!
Eric Church - Mr. Misunderstood - dropped secretly the night of the CMA's and has been charting since . I do not own this album yet , but have heard and read nothing but goodness from it . It is on my list to Santa . The fact he dropped a free copy to his die hard fans causes me to believe that despite his bad boy style , Church is on Santa's nice list .
Chris Stapelton - Traveler - Has done 2.5 million-ish , I believe I read , sales wise since his performance with Justin Timberlake on the CMA's - That's just about a month ago.....meaning that is some mad climbing . Just goes to show how much the art of craftsmanship and performance plays . It would seem that no has doubted that Stapelton could experience this kind of success . Everyone was just waiting for him to get his shot . Well , he got that shot and aimed square at the bulls eye . Sharp shooting Stapelton !
Chris Stapelton - Tennessee Whiskey fr " Traveler "
Carrie Underwood - Storytellers - Just released her second video and single from the album titled , " Heartbeat " . The audio can be found on last weeks #NewMusicMonday if you wanna take a listen . But lets all be real honest with ourselves . It's Carrie . Vocally , she can do no wrong . So . Even if you bought it without YouTubing some of the tracks I doubt you'd be disappointed . There is a YouTube video of the writers and producers listening to the final tracks while being unknowingly videoed and it's awesome . If you got time to spare and need a giggle I vote you give it a watch .
Adele - 25 - Because Adele . I mean , do I need to say more ? Hello !!! 25 seems to have broken basically every record ever . So . Just go get it . Right now . Stop reading . Like , put this on pause or whatever and go .
Little Big Town - Pain Killers - About this time last year , give or take a month " Girl Crush " was preparing to hit radio and I was blogging about the madness and idiocy of people requesting it be banned from radio play . Well , I suppose LBT and normal thinking people showed them . " Girl Crush " won song of the year at CMA's and almost immediately landed at the top of all charts . It stayed at the #1 slot on GAC - Country Countdown for weeks .
Little Big Town - Girl Crush fr Pain Killers
From one of my very first #NewMusicMonday postings , I recommend The Lone Bellow's , " Then Came the Morning " . I love the entire CD and can listen to it front to back with out feeling the need to skip a track .
Kacey Musgraves - Pageant Material - I have featured several Musgraves tunes on the #NewMusicMonday posts . I love her style !! Writing , performing , singing , fashion , I love it all !! I wanna be Kacey Musgraves when I grow up is basically what I am saying here . Pageant Material is one that I don't own the entire album yet . Mainly because I want the actual vinyl copy and I just haven't been around to look for it in stores . Not all stores carry vinyl . So .
Dierks Bentley - Riser - I have shared several of Bentlys tunes as well on #NewMusicMonday and I am still so in love with " Bourbon in Kentucky " that I listen to it on full blast while singing at the top of my lungs whiles driving to and fro . Again , you're welcome car beside me at the red light . You . Are . Welcome . I also , wanna recommend " Up On the Ridge " a more earthy , blue grassy offering Bentley did several years ago . I just kinda feel like Dierks can do no wrong . He is the guy you want to see do well .
Sam Hunt - Montevallo EP - Not a full length album , but it will not leave you disappointed . It took me a minute to warm up to Hunt . But now that I have , I can't wait to see/hear what the next album is like . Hunt is also the male BGV's on Underwood's " Heartbeat " track . Fun trivia for ya there .
The Shires - Brave - A band out of the UK , they spent several dates on tour with Little Big Town just last month . I hope they will tour in the Spring with other American bands in the US . I love the album and could so easily hear it on US radio . Their harmonies are on point , making them the perfect opener for a band like LBT . It is my understanding they have written with Kip Moore , am I the only one who would love to hear that tune ?! I didn't think so .
The Shires - Brave fr " Brave "
Cam - Burning Houses - Cam's first disc is a EP that features her current climbing hit , " Burning Houses " . I love this song so much . I get all the feels when listening to it . Her voice is gorgeous and for what is out there right now I feel it is really unique .
To Be Released : The following albums are still TBR (to be released) , but have produced a single that is currently downloadable . IDK that's a word , but I'm gonna say it is for this situation . Downloadable .
Clare Dunn - Move On - I believe that at the moment only the single or a EP (Extended Play - bigger than just one single , less than a 10-12 track CD) is available for purchase for Clare . She is a new artist and is currently touring with Chris Young on the " Coming Over " tour . I would advise looking her up on iTunes or amazon to download " Move On " . I LOVE IT !!!! And am finally starting to hear it on my local radio stations . Clare is on her way up and I highly recommend giving her a listen . Girls with guitars can't help but be awesome . It's just who they are .
The Cadillac Three - White Lightening - White Lightening vinyl is currently available for pre-order at the bands web site . TCT will be hitting some of the Spring tour dates with Kip Moore and the Slow Hearts . I feel like , we should just go ahead and call the cops , because there ain't no way you're walking out of that show anything less than fired up . I kinda can't wait to see all that comes from it . Not just the hilarious #insta's and tweets that I am confident will be shared , but also the possibility of a single coming from Moore and Johnston . They have written together in the past , but neither have recorded any of their tunes so far . Fingers crossed !!
The Cadillac Three - White Lightening
Thompson Square - Trans Am - I haven't read or heard the details of the original release for TSquares upcoming album , but the announcement of their pregnancy I am sure played a roll in scheduling . I believe the duo is taking a baby break over the holidays and preparing for T3 to arrive . You can keep up to date on all info via their site www.thompsonsquare.com . In the mean time go download " Trans Am " .
Meredith Andrews - Soar - Coming this spring Andrews will release what I believe is her 3rd or 4th studio album . The single " Soar " is currently available for download at iTunes , etc . I love all of Meredith's work . I feel , much like Underwood , vocally , she can do no wrong .
The Band Perry - Live Forever - " Live Forever " , the first single off The Band Perry's forthcoming album has been working the charts for months now . And just several weeks ago the band announced they are pushing it's release date to early 2016 sometime . Stating that after working on finishing touches they got struck by the creativity bug and ended up wanting to rework the album a bit . That's alright with me ! I love TBP and feel like if in the 11th hour they came up with something that inspired them so much they felt they needed to push the album , then I trust it is worth the wait .
AGAIN , I want to remind you that as a music lover , radio listener and TV Watcher you have POWER !!!!! Call, text , tweet , insta , facebook , e-mail or snail mail those requests to your local stations . Requesting your favorite artists tunes is one of the quickest/easiest/cheapest ways to support them . It only takes a second and can be done while waiting in traffic (on a speaker of course ) , waiting for a meeting , whatever !!!! Make the call ! Make the request ! Make the difference in your fave artists career !!! Yes , it's that big of a deal . Trust me .
I will be taking a holiday break from #NewMusicMonday for the next several weeks . I may do a few other type posts , but we will see . I have a lot swirling about in my mind . I hope that I have given you enough material to keep your ipod on shuffle for the rest of your Holiday and well into the New Year . Looking forward to what 2016 has not only for music , but for myself . Thank you all for your continued support in reading , commenting , and simply being supportive of The Faith Journals . It means a lot to me .
Merry Christmas Y'all !!!
A little throw back for ya . Maraiah Carey Christmas Album
I believe it is the best selling Christmas album of all time .
Again , another fun fact for ya . I hope you get to play some trivia over the holidays .
I have been struggling lately with something I have never , that I can recall , have ever struggled with before . Not since my salvation anyway . The fight . The desire to physically tear someone up . I recall that when I was knee high to a grass hopper I had a bit of bite to me , but that was literally decades ago . So , with this seemingly new struggle of wanting to put up my dukes I feel in my heart that I am stumbling all over the place . I know . I know !! Physical violence is NEVER the answer . I know . I know !!! But , knowledge does not always triumph over desire . Knowledge does not always triumph over instinct . Especially when it isn't about defending yourself , but another . All rules , out the window . However , I cling to the knowledge that God is higher . That vengeance is the Lords . I am doing my best to cling to the truths He has instilled in me long before this particular battle was my own . I was looking back over a few of my social media posts from the last few weeks that have come as a result of my quiet time with Him . I have posted them below in their entirety . I'm sensing a pattern . Give them a glance and you may as well .
" Do not be surprised by the fiery attacks on your mind ." " You are engaged in massive warfare , spiritually speaking ." "....; your role is simply to trust Me as I fight for you ." Jesus Calling - Proverbs 3:5 " Trust in the Lord with all your heart , and do not lean on your own understanding ." - Psalm 3:3 " But You , O Lord are a shield about me , my glory and the lifter of my head ." - Know tonight that whatever you are going through , struggling with , or are being weighed down by , He ...is fighting FOR you . We are at war on every front . It should be no surprise that it includes spiritual warfare too . " Trust the Lord with all your heart " because He fights FOR you !!!! You are not alone . He loves you . He as planned ahead for you . He fights for you . I can't seem to say that enough tonight . He . Fights . For . You .
Exodus 14:14 " The Lord will fight for you , you need only to be still . "
In the last few days I have really felt the Lord taking me to task with this verse . I had become proud thinking the "be still" part was so simple . Well, I don't think I had really known what it was to want to fight , kick , punch , smack , swear, yell , hair pull & all the other violent actions of a fight until recently . Wanting to physically come to blows with someone and having this verse brought to mind is a real genuine struggle . Put down your dukes . Quiet your tongue and your mind . No kicking . No scratching. It isn't so easy . Today , hands to myself and mind everywhere else , I am clinging , like perhaps never before to the truth of this verse . He WILL fight for you . Matter of fact . It's so important for us to know that He will stand in front of us and in place of us to take or deliver a hit that He made sure the writer of this verse used the word FIGHT . Fight and Be Still . What contradictions!!! But His directive is clear . My job = Be Still . His job = Fighting . Whatever He may be taking you to task on believe on Him to keep His word . He is the most faithful of us all .
" We must pray with our eyes on God , not on the difficulty . " Oswald Chambers
Current Struggle . I'm unsure I have ever struggled like I am now to focus on just the God part of a prayer . Some situations we just continue to stare at the issue/problem/situation afraid that if we take our eyes off of it , it will sneak off and God won't be able to find it and "fix" it . I've got it twisted . Its about keeping my eyes on God while no matter what happens knowing 1 . No sin is hidden from Him . 2. Vengeance , is the Lords . 3. He loves Me . His desires/plans for me are to prosper and keep me well . Gotta keep m'eyes on the God of the situation , not the situation . Lord come quick .
Do you see it ? The pattern . As I pray , as I struggle to leave this particular time in my life at His feet , He is speaking to me . He is answering my prayers as they leave my lips . He . Will . Fight . For . Me . So , tonight as I settle into an attempt at thankfulness over wallowing in negative thought , I will thank Him . Thank Him for fighting for me . Thank Him for providing and weaving all these truths into my heart and mind before I even knew I needed them . Thank Him for a million other things He does daily . He's got this . He's got me . Also , He has you . I share what I share on social media and this blog for 1. Selfish therapy . It feels good to get it all out of my head . I feel when we let things linger in our minds for long we give the enemy a open shot at us . 2 . I don't believe it's all about me . I think that when the Lord shows us something , shares some sort of wisdom , provision , protection , etc . it is as important as the gospel it's self . It is a reflection of His character and goodness and it is our job to share that with folks . So , even if just one person feels a little less alone in their struggle because I am sharing mine , mission accomplished .
My prayer for you this weekend is that you would stop to consider what the Lord may have been preparing for you and whatever struggle you are going through before it began . He equips us . He does not lead us astray . He is purposeful . Let us thank Him for going before us in ALL situations .
Happy Weekend !!
Happy Post Thanksgiving ! I hope you all had a wonderful holiday weekend . Now , can we talk about what is really on my mind ?! Miranda and Blake . Gwen and Gavin . Reba and Narvel . Miss Piggy and Kermit . Meredith and Derek !!!! My heart can't really take much more and let ' s face it , break ups are hard . Who exactly are they the hardest on ? That's right , the fans . Break ups are hardest on the fans . There . I said it . Someone had to !! When a artist couple breaks up we are sent into an immediate tail spin . Who did what ? Who did who ? Who are we mad at ? Who's to blame ? Who do we hate ? What about the work you made while together ? Are those songs a lie ? Do I still connect to it like before ? Am I allowed to love the song he wrote , but she sang ? When it comes on the radio do I automatically change the station ?! I mean , I have had the radio on scan for months out of sheer confusion of what to do . Can someone just freakin' tell me how to feel ??!!! And even more importantly......who gets the fans in the divorce ?! Is it one artist during the week and another on the weekend ? Do I spend a Summer following one around to all the fairs and in the Fall just show up like everything is normal to an arena show for the other ?! I am still working out the answers to these questions . I'm actually still kinda mourning most of these relationships and trying to figure out the who gets the song in the divorce , so , I ' m not 100 % when I'll get these answers to you . For now , let us let music tend to our wounded hearts while we work out the who gets what in the divorce . Thank God for pre - nups ! Am I right ?!
As mentioned , I am still in mourning over these break ups . Making my first #NewMusicMonda post a bit controversial I think . I have gone back and forth . I was a fan before the break up . I should be a fan after the break up , especially after the nanny news . Ya know , girl power and all . Ho 's over bro' s and what not . But then , your rebound guy is apart of another break up I am mourning and now what ? Now what do I do ? My loyalty even more conflicted than before . So , I may still be torturing myself over who's " team " I am actually on here , but a lyric in this song just got to me . Making it #NewMusicMonday worthy . I mean , we can't blame the music . Right ? Can we ? That would really help me sort out a few of the questions in the above paragraph ?! Anyway , Gwen Stefani's , " Use To Love You " hit me square in the love when I honed in on the chorus and actual inspiration point for the tune . " But I think it's cause I remembered for the first time since I hated you , that I used to love you " . DAAAAAAAAAAAAANNNNNNNNNNNGGGGGGGGGG GINA !!!!!! Once I focused in on that line , I was done . It all made sense . Stefani has mentioned in several interviews that writing and being creative have been one of the methods of healing she's used in this time since her divorce when everything got so public . " Use To Love You " being the first release from the singer in a while , feels directly aimed at her current situation . She has also said that the video was kind of a freak happening . She went in to do some creative photo-esq stuff for/with a friend and the video for " Use To Love You " ended up being the final and unexpected product . I am sorry , but like I said , we shouldn't punish the music for our broken hearts . So , " Use To Love You " makes the first pick for this weeks #NewMusicMonday .
Remember that time Carrie Underwood dated Tony Romo ? Me either ! Rumor has been that " Cowboy Cassanova " was inspired by the relationship . But lets be real , beyond the awesome tune , no one really cares anymore . Leading us to what we do care about , the second upcoming release from Underwoods most recent studio album " Storyteller " , titled " Heartbeat " . I have been listening to it on repeat . Something that happens when I really get into a song . A solid album usually just lives in the CD player for months . Anyway , I am not a love song person . I am not . But I can't help it . Maybe I am softening in my old age , but " Heartbeat " makes me all warm and rose colored glasses-ey inside . Fun fact , wondering who those male BGV's are on the track ?! The one and only Sam Hunt . Hunt just won the Best New Artist award at the AMA's last week , beating out artists from all genre's . I mean , the kid is here to stay no matter what genre we believe he belongs in . I think his work here on the " Heartbeat " track shows a bit of his range . Not just a talky , rap-ish , singer/writer guy . Kid can harmonize . Underwood teased a forthcoming video today on social media , but until that drops a audio vid will have do . So , take a listen to " Heartbeat " and let us know if it will make it to your Valentine mix tape next year . Yes , I am already thinking about Valentines Day .
Last , but obviously never least , Kip Moore . That's right . More Wild Ones for ya . As the Fall leg of the Wild Ones tour heads towards an end , Moore has not stopped hearing his recent release " Wild Ones " sang back to him by fans . The writer is also consistently sharing new tunes with his live audiences . It is impossible to keep up . Wild Ones is only a few months old and for whatever reason my heart is already anticipant for the next album . I blame you Moore !! Ya big tease !!! How dare you release a 15 second #insta tease of a song and expect me to be satisfied !!! You have me on a constant ledge of loving you forever or hating you forever with those #insta teases by Life in Rewind . Below is a clip from one of the VIP pre-show performances where Moore does a singer/songwriter type set for his biggest fans . This is a youtube clip of " Burn the Whole World Down " ( one of my faves from Wild Ones ) and " Play It Cool " . I may be wrong , but I think " Play it Cool " was co-written with Jaren Johnston from The Cadillac Three . A bro-mance if ever there was one . I don't foresee these two breaking up anytime soon , and I greatly appreciate it . I mean , who can a gal depend on if it isn't a solid bro - mance between two amazing writers ?! I don't even know ! Anyway , I could have it confused with another tune . My mind is still a bit jangled over this who do I support in a artist break up situation . " Play It Cool " is on neither studio albums from Moore . We can only hope it makes the cut for the next one .Though I must admit I have no idea how the guy chooses . His fans are passionate about every single song he plays . They sing them back word for word days after a clip hits youtube . I truly don't know that I have seen a following like Kip Moore's . His fans are the real deal . And I am proud to call myself one . If you haven't yet , go get Wild Ones or download the deluxe version ASAP !! It's worth the two latte's you'll have to take out of your budget . LOL !!!
Kip Moore - Youtube clip - VIP Wild Ones Tour
FOR THE LOVE OF MUSIC !!!!!!!!!!!!!! DON'T FORGET !!!!!!!!! YOU HAVE POWERRRRRRRR!!!!!!!!!!!! Call , tweet , text , facebook , e-mail , instagram and even snail mail those requests to your local DJ's and Country Music Television Stations . It TRULY MATTERS !!!!!!!! This is one of the easiest/quickest/cheapest ways to show your favorite artists your support . Save those numbers into your phone so when you are stuck in traffic you can make a quick call , on speaker of course . REQUEST ! REQUEST ! REQUEST !!!!
Happy Thanksgiving week and #NewMusicMonday !!! Today I am thankful for men.......of country music that is .
First for #NewMusicMonday is the one and only Eric Church . There was a lot happening at the CMA's and we all became undone over the Stapelton/Timberlake performance so , it is no surprise that I haven't made it to the discussion of the surprise album drop that happened that night . The surprise album drop of " Mr. Misunderstood " by Eric Church . No pre-drop promotion . No tune teases . Nothing . Day of , word started to leak that the Church Choir (Church's die hard & official fan club) had received early download copies . As the choir began to sing his praises word continued to travel and we all got a little anticipant come CMA show time what exactly would happen . Was it real ? Was it gossip ? Do dreams really come true ?! They do . At least when Eric Church is in charge anyway . So , here I share with you the title track from " Mr. Misunderstood " , the latest and surprise release from Eric Church , the Chief . Yes , this is on my list for Santa right behind Pageant Material by Kacey Musgraves . I 'm listing them for Santa in order of release not importance . Just so we are all clear and know I am not playing favorites .
Eric Church - " Mr . Misunderstood "
fr. Mr . Misunderstood
Second , Charles Kelley from Lady Antebellum's solo release of " The Driver " with Dierks Bentley and Eric Paslay . I am already a fan of his work with Lady A so , I was of course anticipant to hear what his solo tunes might sound like . With his first release off the album accompanied by the bgv and instrumental support of Dierks and Paslay , I think everyone is undeniably calling this an amazing tune . There is a bit of a darkness too it , which we all know I am a fan of . But the vocals of the three combined all by it's self is enough to admire this track . Then add in the lyrics . Forget about it !!! Take a listen and decide for yourself .
Charles Kelley " The Driver "
Last on this week of Thanksgiving I am thankful for the recent release of Wild Ones and am of course sharing another track from the album . " I'm To Blame " is the first release and only official video, so far , from Moore's second studio album , Wild Ones . I have loved the entire album so much that I'm not even mad anymore that it took 3 years to release it . Moore has said in interviews that this is very much a little insight into who he is as a person , artist and writer . If you've taken my advice and listed to any of the tunes I ' ve shared from Moore , I think you know by now that Kip is an artist that isn't afraid to speak his mind , whether you like what he has to say or not . That is something I deeply respect about the work he does and the way he has chosen to pursue a music career . I've heard him say in multiple interviews , " You can't live your life trying to please people . You be courteous and you be respectful , but you gotta do things the way you wanna do em ' . Especially in this field , if you let other people tell you how to run your career , you're gonna follow in the steps of a dozen other artists , hundreds of other artists . If you don't pave your own path and don't know in your gut what you're suppose to be and what you're suppose to say , then I don't think your music will ever see the light of day . I'm gonna march to the beat of my own drum and that's just the way it is . Ain't nothing anyone can say or do about it . " It's that thought that I relate too and that made me a fan and it is that thought , in action that will keep me a fan . While we are still a few days pre - holiday I have a sneaking suspicion that this may end up being my holiday theme song . I mean , " Where there 's a ' What'd you say ? ' , damn right I said it " .
Kip Moore & The Slow Hearts - " I'm To Blame "
fr " Wild Ones "
Happy Listening and Happy Thanksgiving !!! What tunes sound tracked your life this year ? Feel free to share in the comments . Also , DON'T FORGET!!!!!!!! You HAVE POWER as a radio listener and as a fan . Call , tweet , text , facebook , insta , and heck even snail mail into those stations and get these songs heard . It only takes a minute and is a easy/inexpensive way to support your favorite artists .
" Pay attention to the ministry you have received in the Lord . " Colossians 4:17
Yesterday as I did my devo's and journaled , in the midst of all my question asking , crying in confusion and just openly hurting to my Heavenly Father , I for some reason wrote into my journal " use my tomorrow for whatever you need " . I had already had semi planned what the day might hold , but was awoken by God taking me at my word . When we say to Him , " use ......" Fill in the blank w my day , my talent , my time , my money , etc . we best well mean it . He will take us at our word . He will call on us when we have offered our lives or resources to His plans . He has continued to remind me that in the midst of my personal chaos and testing there is still work to be done for Him . This side of Heaven there will always be work to be done in His name . I would challenge/encourage you , no matter your current situation , to consider what ministry He may have for you right where you are . Right in the midst of your greatest pain , most financially unstable week, month , year , most confounding confusion . Right there in the midst of your mess , what might He be wanting or trying to give you as a ministry . As Christians it is never gonna be about how we loved , lived and survived in the good times . Its gonna be how we loved , lived and managed to survive in the bad times . Does that make any sense to ya ? I pray so . This felt as though it was meant for more than just me . My prayer for you this week is that you would be able to sense His leading in your life . Be able to focus on what the ministry He is trying to allow you might be . Love y'all ! You are NOT alone .
" The Lord Will Fight For You , You Need Only to Be Still . " Exodus 14:14
In the last few days I have really felt the Lord taking me to task with this verse . I had become proud thinking the " be still " part was so simple . Well , I don't think I had really known what it was to want to fight , kick , punch , smack , swear , yell , hair pull & all the other violent actions of a fight until recently . Wanting to physically come to blows with someone and having this verse brought to mind is a real genuine struggle . Put down your dukes . Quiet your tongue and your mind . No kicking . No scratching . It isn't so easy . Today , hands to myself and mind everywhere else , I am clinging , perhaps like never before to the truth of this verse . He WILL fight for you . Matter of fact . It ' s so important for us to know that He will stand in front of us and in place of us to take or deliver a hit that He made sure the writer of this verse used the word FIGHT . Fight and Be Still . What contradictions !!! But His directive is clear . My job = Be Still . His job = Fighting . Whatever He may be taking you to task on believe on Him to keep His word . He is the most faithful of us all .
Now that we are starting to calm down after the awesomeness that was the Stapelton/Timberlake performance from the CMA's , I think we can return to our regularly scheduled music obsessions . I am starting this weeks #NewMusicMonday with Kip Moore 's , " What Ya Got On Tonight " from the " Wild Ones " album . Below is a quick clip of the song by Life in Rewind . I think it is a super cute song and a fun little vid . I know all Kip fans are on the edge of our seats awaiting a video for " Running for You " , Moore's current radio single . While we wait , this will do . Kip , no matter what the haters ever have to say about you , you fit the phrase " hot pink argyle knee high socks " into a song and it doesn't sound out of place . That's just skill right there . Let em' hate . They just jealous .
" What Ya Got On Tonight "
by Kip Moore fr Wild Ones
Next on #NewMusicMonday is a bit of a throw back . In anticipation of the Spring release , " Full Circle " , a new album from Loretta Lynn , I thought I would share one of my fave's from back in the day . I don't know how many people automatically associate the name Loretta Lynn with Jack White that don't already know that they collaborated . I however automatically pair them together . I personally have been a fan of Jack for years . I think he is the kind of musical genius that is going to be forever misunderstood and confusing . Hence , the surprise , but magical collaboration of he with Loretta Lynn . Together they produced the single , " Portland , Oregon " . It is still one of my favorite songs from either of them . I can't even help it . Jack helped produce the entire album for Loretta and they have every since seemed to have a undeniable connection . So much so that she accompanied him for his Nashville walk of fame ceremony . Anyway , until " Full Circle " gets here , please feel free to enjoy a little magical duet of " Portland , Oregon " .
Loretta Lynn & Jack White
" Porland , Oregon " fr Van Lear Rose
Kacey Musgraves " Dime Store Cowgirl "
fr Pageant Material
While we are discussing Loretta it is only fitting we transition to Kacey . A big fan of Loretta herself , Musgraves got to duet with her last year at the CMA's . Most people only recall the height of Musgrave's hair , but I recall the performance as well . LOL ! However , the CMA performance I am sharing today is from this years CMA's . I have Pageant Material on my list for Santa , fully expecting I have been a good enough girl to see it under my tree this year . " Dime Store Cowgirl " is another homage to Kacey's roots , style , and home state of Texas . She often writes songs that pay a certain kind of respect , truth and little tongue in cheek reference to her home state as well as who she is as a person . Her style is for sure all her own , but I definitely respect that about her . Not just anyone could perform in front of a room filled with country music legends wearing a bedazzled bathing suit and cowboy boots . Girl knows who she is and doesn't care if we like it........which automatically makes me like it . I wish I was so brazen . Anyway , enjoy a little " Dime Store Cowgirl " and consider which of you are getting this for me for Christmas ;-)
What are you all listening too this November ? Are you into the Christmas tunes yet ? Please feel free to share !!! Don't forget !!! You have the power as a fan and music lover to get your favorite tunes into radio rotation . I have my local stations saved in my phone so that I can request a tune whenever I want . It only takes a second and it is one of the easiest ways to show your favorite artists your support .
Happy Listening and #NewMusicMonday to you all !!!
This p is a recipe for Beans~N~Taters , cause I'm southern like that . idk why, but beans and taters just feel very southern to me , making them apart of what I consider comfort food . If you're looking to add a two for one to your meal I suggest these . I am all about multi-tasking , pre-planning and basically anything that makes a meal quicker and/or easier . So , here's how I fix em' up. Yes , it takes a bit of time , but it is a 2-4-1 so it balances out in my opinion .
Ingredients :
1 can Alan's green beans (I think the brand matters and Alan's is m'fave) , also French cut style beans will cook quicker so put that into consideration when picking bean/making this work for your tastes .
If you use the smaller can of beans use two smaller potatoes , but if you use the big can , depending on the size of taters use 3-4 .
You will also need about a cup to a cup and a 1/2 of Chicken broth . I use the bouillon cubes and just prep some whenever I am cooking . It is something that basically makes itself . Then I just store it in the fridge and it is already ready for use . Also , with the cubes I don't have to worry as much with them expiring quickly . Another small tip , I use reduced sodium broths so that I can better control the salt amount/taste .
Prep: Two small tabs equaling maybe a teaspoon of butter in large frying pan , 1/4 cup-ish chicken broth and chopped potatoes .
I chop mine a similar size as a nickel , thick as a grape . Let these items cook on medium for about 15-20 min (until potatoes are starting to soften) .
Add beans with their juice , add rest of chicken broth , salt and pepper (s&p up to your preference) mix and let continue to cook on med hi for another 15-20 min . Since you up the heat closer to high than medium , you gotta keep an eye that the liquid doesn't completely evaporate or that things don't burn to the pan . Once majority of liquid is gone , beans and taters are tender , its time to turn off the heat , letting them simmer a bit in the still hot pan and then serve .
I have a bad habit of eating them as they cook . I mean , someone has to sample them right . Hope you enjoy and that they add some southern comfort & warmth to your meal!!!!!
What are you cooking up for comfort meals as the weather starts to get chilly ?! That reminds me , anyone got a great recipe for chili ?!
So , I ended up getting to the CMA viewing a tad late . Not because of my utter frustration with the impending ear bleed that was a FOB/Thomas Rett mash up , but because I'd forgotten I had out of town plans that day . Anyway , I got to the T.V. about a hour into the show . Just in time to see Chris Stapelton snag his first trophy of the night for Best New Artist .
Uhm....what did I say Last Week again ? That the music nerd in me thought Chris Stapelton " may prove a first go 'round upset to other artists " , yeaaaaaaaahhhhhhhh 'bout that . My hashtag for the night was #StapeltonForTheWin....AGAIN!!!!! Coming into the night as someone that everyone in the room already knew and had quiet possibly worked with , but never nominated , Stapelton walked away with three of the most coveted awards of the night . Best New Artist , Best Male Artist , and Album of the Year . I am unsure that any of his fellow nominee's disagreed with those wins . Stapelton is a writer that has been working with his fellow nominees for years . He is an artists, artist . While I was not in the room , even through the TV I got the overwhelming vibe that the Stapelton wins and performance renewed each artist in the room . His wins give me hope that what is on " trend " will not always win . As I read other reviews , status' , tweets , etc. I see that he is giving folks hope that all that we have known as the country genre , is not lost . I think one of the things that warm my heart most is that his wife is right beside him . Literally , she was the female on stage doing bgvs' with he and Timberlake for their performance . Morgan Stapelton is a vocalist and writer as well . They actually met through their writing back grounds . Their first date was apparently a writing session . Chris thinking Morgan would never go out with him asked if she wanted to write....on a Friday....around 6 p.m. LOL !!! I'm sorry , but that's adorable . I suppose the family that writes/sings together , stays together .
This weeks #NewMusicMonday is gonna be singular . I will return to my multiple artist/tune exposure next week . But , due to the AMAZINGNESS that was the Stapelton/Timberlake performance I feel it deserves it's own #NewMusicMonday with out competition . During the show Stapelton's album "Traveler" shot to number 2 on the iTunes chart , sitting right behind the surprise album drop from Eric Church at number 1 . Still holding strong I think " Traveler " is going to break some records . For your #NewMusicMonday viewing pleasure I will be posting the CMA performance that EEEEEEEEERRRRRRRRRYYYYYYYYONE was talking about . Justin Timberlake , Chris & Morgan Stapelton covering George Jones , " Tennessee Whiskey " & Timberlakes , " I Can't Drink You Away " .
CMA 2015 - Justin Timberlake & Chris Stapelton
" Tennessee Whiskey " " Can't Drink You Away "
I don't know about you , but I had me some chur-urch during this performance . Sometimes when something is so on point , so true , so pure , so RIGHT ON , you can't help , but make some stank face and raise that hand . That was me . Justin Timberlake also an artists , artist , as always vocally was on point , stylistically this performance was nothing but a glass of perfectly aged bourbon vocalized . Why am I not as angered by a JT mash up as I am FOB . Well , as I said , Timberlake is a artists, artist . It is clear by all of his bodies of solo work that he is a coinsurer of music in every way . He has worked with varied influences that reach beyond his genre . I think if JT produced a country album , not many in the community would be mad about it . The difference between JT and other artists is that he does not abandon his " style " to fit . Many artists that mash up or try a genre hop into country try to act as though they are country . I'm sorry , but a country fan knows . Don't even try it . It worked for Darius Rucker , cause he is southern born and bread . He wasn't trying to be Hootie in a cowboy hat . It didn't work for Jessica Simpson because she was a Texas girl turned California girl who thought that because she played Daisy Duke in a movie role she could capitalize on her temporary country image . Strong words from strong feelings . I think if Timberlake released a country inspired album it would quiet possibly be respected by the genre , due to his respect of the genre . If that makes sense to ya .
Anyway , enjoy this and feel free to listen to it over and over and over . No judgment . To catch up on past #NewMusicMonday's feel free to check past links in the right side of the page in the blog archive . Follow me on #Insta for updates , deals , and my general hilarity @ https://instagram.com/stacietennessee/
So , if you know me even a teen tiny bit , then you know of my great affection for awards shows . You also are aware of my passion for music . So , imagine my uncontrollable excitement when there is a music award show......normally . The more I learn , it would seem the more irate I become about musical politics/trends . I am still on the fence about watching Wednesday nights CMA's . Several artists that 100% deserve to be nominated , presenting or performing are not . However , Fall Out Boy.......is performing . Cause that makes nothing , but sense . Is it me or is their current album full of jacked back tracks ??!! ANYWAY...Justin Timberlake is performing....I am less irate about this than the FOB thing , mainly cause I see him as a general fan and coinsure of music all around , not just his specific genre . Maybe I am being all judgy wudgy , but it is just the truth of where I am at currently . I am sad to report that only TWO of the groups in today's #NewMusicMonday are nominated this year . I believe next year we could see Cam in the New Artist of the year category . Kip Moore.....DON'T GET ME STARTED . Kip has been nominated for New Artist in years past and lost (which makes me swear at the TV ) , but this year is absent from all categories . I am unsure if it was the release date for his most recent release #WildOnes , his tendency to do his own thing , trends be damned , or what the problem is . However , as a fan of the mans music I can't help but throw in my two cents of , " Kip is selling out show after show and the fans are OBSESSED with his work . For real , you should read what some of those crazies write on his social media . Come to think of it a few may be obsessed in the need a restraining order kind of way . That's off topic for the moment so , HEY CMA !!! Get your top out of your bottom and start giving credit where credit is due !!! Stop being the not so popular kid trying to fit in with all the popular kids so you'll do whatever everyone else is doing . Mkay ?! Mkay . If you are not on the fence and are wanting to watch you can do so by tuning into ABC on November 4th (this Wednesday) at 8 p.m. EST . Brad Paisley and Carrie Underwood are hosting . In all reality I am sure I'll at least flip back and forth and 100 % will watch red carpet if it is aired . I love the clothes . I can't even help it . I ' ll step off that soapbox for a sec and now share with you my list for this weeks #NewMusicMonday .
Cam - " Burning House "
Yes , I did highlight Cam last week . I am reposting her on this weeks list because as of Friday she was added to GAC 's top twenty countdown voting page . If you like what you hear/see head over to www.greatamericancountry.com to cast your vote and get " Burning House " charting on the count down . On this moody , dreary , rainy day I have listed to this track almost ten times I think . I love it . So , I vote it hitting the voting page along with it fitting the day qualifies it for a second week in a row posting to #NewMusicMonday .
Next , leading the pack with six nominations is Little Big Town . Nominated for album of the year , I think " Pain Killers " has a strong chance . Personally I am torn between LBT and Kacey Musgraves , " Pageant Material " for the win . But then the music nerd in me believes that Chris Stapelton may prove a first go 'round upset to all the artist in the Best Album category . I plan to share a few of his tunes in the weeks ahead . However , as an accomplished writer you may have already heard some of them with out even knowing it . Back to LBT , off of one of my favorite albums this year , " Pain Killers ", I am sharing " Faster Gun " . Again , a tune that musically kinda goes with the darkness of the day and my mood . I am unsure it will be a single seeing as three songs have already been released off the album . Every artist is a bit different with how much of an album will be released . For example , Taylor Swift has released to radio 5 tracks of off 1989 and it is only a year old . So , ya just never know . I digress.....here is " Faster Gun " by Little Big Town .
Little Big Town - " Faster Gun "
fr . " Pain Killers "
Thompson Square - " Trans Am "
Up for best duo of the year is Thompson Square . For whatever reason I can not find the official video for this song , so a performance vid will have to do . " Trans Am " is the duo's first release of the year after taking a small bit of time off after number one's such as " Are You Gonna Kiss Me " , " Glass " , & " If I Didn't Have You " . Now , expecting their first child Square is up for the Best Duo award I wanna say third time , I am super bad at numbers so , it could be a give or take situation on the amount , but not for the first time they are up for Duo of The Year . Having won several years ago it would seem all duo's in the recent two years have been shut out by Florida Georgia Line . I mean , o.k. they win it once cause they crossed genre's and toured with a R&B star . O.k. I might get it . Simply due to the exposure of country music around the world through genre mixing factor . But I am now over it . I think that while Maddie and Tae are young/new they have co - written a wonderful first album and are doing well on the heels of the Sounds of Summer tour with Dierks Bently , Kip Moore and Caanan Smith . As I have said before I have a strong affection for writers . Especially writers that are performers as well . I mean , it is a scary thing to sing your own tune for folks to criticize . Considering that all of us who have access to the internet have also deemed ourselves official music critics I am unsure how a person gets that brave . Don't think I could do it . So , props ! Anyway , I kinda have my fingers crossed for TSquare , but could see it going to any set in the category . My fear is that trend will reign and FGL will win for a third year in a row . I think it's third . Third or second . UHG , WHATEVER !
Last , but as expected , I am sharing another tune from Kip Moore's #WildOnes . Small fact , Kip co - wrote , " Let's Fight " , Thompson Squares first official single to hit radio several years ago . While it didn't get all the traction it should have , it is still one of my favorite of their tunes . This week I am sharing the title track from #WildOnes , my ninth share from the 16 track deluxe album . The below video is a bit of a teaser from Life in Rewind films . Responsible for several instagram teasers & youtube, behind the scenes , etc. videos Life in Rewind seems to have been documenting Moore's climb up music row from the very beginning . I love the teaser vids so much that I hope , eventually , LIR will get the opportunity to do a full video that lands on a countdown . Wild Ones is the title track from Moore's most recent studio release . A bit of a chant , a bit of this is how we do and don't , Wild One's is no doubt an anthem . Seeing as he did not release the title track from his last album " Up All Night " , my favorite track from the record btw , I don't even know what to expect from Moore when it comes to the releases off of Wild Ones . Release to single or not I shall be chanting along to this one as I go wherever I want , whenever I want , with whomever I want , if I want . " Cause tonight we're just worried about having fun !! " . Last week I shared " Running For You " on the #NewMusicMonday post , the current single to radio from Moore . Today I called two separate radio stations to request it have some air time . I just wanna remind you that as a fan you have power . VOTE ! VOTE ! VOTE ! REQUEST ! REQUEST ! REQUEST !
Kip Moore - " Wild Ones" fr "Wild Ones"
BONUS VIDEO !!!!! - Co-Written by Kip Moore , Thompson Square's " Lets Fight "
Thompson Square - " Let's Fight "
DON'T FORGET !!!!!! You have power as a fan and music listener to get your favorite artists on radio rotation and on video countdowns . Make a call , go online and vote , tweet , text , face book , e-mail , and perhaps even some snail mail would work . Whatever method you choose make sure you are giving your favorite artists some support in this way . It literally only takes a few seconds ! The D.J.' s are always happy to hear from their community . Today one wanted to chat for a bit , but I was all , listen , stop talking to me and go play that dadjim Kip Moore's "Running for You" right this instant.....he did . Happy New Music Monday !!!! What are you listening too ? Are you planning to watch the CMA's ? Are your favorites nominated ? To see a full list of nominee's or to keep up with CMA announcements you can follow them on Facebook or head over to http://tasteofcountry.com/2015-cma-awards-nominees/ , NashWeekly , or Billboard .
With the release of Carrie Underwoods , " Storyteller " and the announcement of Adele's upcoming release , there was simply no way this weeks #NewMusicMonday was gonna remain at the usual 3 songs . I also wanted to bring Kip Moore's , "Wild Ones" back into the mix . I meant it when I said I wanna share all 16 tracks . I love the album THAT much !! But first , let us begin this #NewMusicMonday with a up and coming new country artist you need to know named , Cam .
Cam - " Burning House "
With an EP release " Burning Houses " is the first track starting to get some attention . I do my best to support all the curly haired country singing sisters out there . Kimberly Perry , love her . Kimberly Schlampan from Little Big Town , can't get enough of her . So , when I saw Cam in a line up of song writers I thought I need to hear this chicks tunes . LOL ! " Burning Houses " does not disappoint . The video above was directed by Trey Fanjoy which also got my attention . Fanjoy is known for working with such established artists like Kenny Chesney , Taylor Swift , Big and Rich , and the list just goes on and on . She is a visionary in the purest meaning of the word and her work here is an amazing example of it . I feel like the dramatics of the fire combine with sweet softness of Cam's voice are just a perfect ying and yang . Give it a look , give it a listen and decide for yourself , but whatever you do make a mental note of the name Cam . You will be hearing more from her in the future .
Second on #NewMusicMonday I am bringing back Kip Moore's , " Wild Ones " album . After leaving him off the last few weeks lists (due to themes) I thought it was a good time to bring him back . This week I am sharing my FAVORITE track off the 16 song deluxe album titled , " Magic " . I may have called every tune my favorite , but this one is for reals my FAVORITE !! I think this tune is soooooo different and creative , beginning to end . I don't know that it will make it to single status , but if it does I have high hopes for the video . I think it is a real opportunity to do something unexpected and different visually . However , with so many great songs on this album I imagine choosing which ones will be singles is going to be an impossible task . I don't envy Mr. Moore for having to make those calls . I really do have my fingers crossed on this one though . I love it so much !!! I'm not a fairy tale girl when you get to my core . So , this little story spoke to me a bit . For me to believe in or ever be capable of real true selfless love , it's gonna take some #Magic . LOL !! (Pun intended) .
Kip Moore - " Magic " fr " Wild Ones "
Carrie Underwood - " Renegade Runaway "
fr " Storyteller "
Carrie Underwood officially released , " Storyteller " this last Friday and of course it is already charting high . I believe everyone always expects nothing but quality from this particular American Idol . With her first single , " Smoke Break " still hitting number one on video and radio charts I don't even know when the second official video could be released . Each artist is so different with their crafting of their work . Some will release 3 videos at one time and others will do a slow , track by track release leading up to the complete album . So , who knows ??!!! Anyway , I am sharing " Renegade Runaway " with you this #NewMusicMonday . I just love it . Carrie does a few new things vocally on this one that I dig and even envy . As far as the lyrics I feel like I'm a bit of a moving target when it comes to romance and the idea of love . So I think just a little bit of me relates to the girl in this song . Give it a listen and tell us if you think it should be a single .
Let's all just be honest with ourselves.....OF COURSE ADELE IS ON THIS WEEKS #NewMusicMonday . OF COURSE !!!! After a 4 year wait she has finally announced that her next studio album , " 25 " will be released in November . She is quoted as saying that she feared she had lost " it " when asked about the time it has taken for a new album . I'm not gonna lie , it makes me feel better to know someone as beautiful and talented as Adele gets insecure too . She is JUST LIKE US !!!! Anyway, along with the announcement of the album was the release of the first track , " Hello " . Yes , when seeing the title my mind first went to Lionel Richie too . You're not alone . LOL !!! Adele is GORGEOUS !!!! It isn't fair that someone be this vocally talented and have that porcelain skin . It's not . But I will make my peace with God over that on another day . Feast your eyes and ears on the beauty that is Adele .
Adele - " Hello " fr " 25 "
Don't forget y'all , you have the power when it comes to radio rotation . Call in , tweet , facebook , instagram , and/or e-mail your requests . Save your local radio numbers in your phone and call when you are sitting in traffic , waiting in line at the grocery , or are in a waiting room . Basically whenever there is a lull . LOL !!! Also , when a station plays your request be sure to thank them on social media . That also helps boost an artists play time on air . I for one am tired of being in the car for 30 minutes and hearing the same song at least twice . There is so much good music out there !!!! WE gotta get it shared and requested !!!
What are your Halloween plans ? Got a playlist burned ? Please feel free to share with us in the comment section !!!! Happy Listening !!
....download these right this instant !! I just finished texting with a friend about my possible addiction to music . I mean , y'all , it's go to rehab bad . I have always loved music . But I think the older and more knowledgeable about the varied areas I get , my passion only grows . I grew up with my mom giving piano lessons to my cousins in our home . Both of my grandparents , all of my ya-ya's , uncles and cousins just about, sing or play . I took piano for a while , sang in choirs , and even worked with varied touring artists in different capacities . It has been a long while since I have been able to identify a true passion of mine . It's been a struggle to feel nothing about everything . But with every #NewMusicMonday I am reminded of how much music is apart of my DNA . I truly hope that through these posts I am sharing new songs and artists with fellow music lovers . This week there are two possibly new to you artists on the #NewMusicMonday list . I loved this music so much I have listened to it AAAAAALLLLLLLL weekend and even broke out a few bucks from the bday money fund to purchase them . I mean , it's bday money . Some of it is suppose to be for something fun and not just bill paying . Right ?! I thought so too . Here are this weeks #NewMusicMonday tunes/artists..........
The Shires - " Only Midnight "
fr " Brave " - Deluxe Album
Uhm , The Shires are the best thing from across the pond since..........( insert your favorite thing from the UK here ) . I came across The Shires when another artist I follow posted a pic after a writing session with them . Yes , that is one of the many ways folks hear about new music and artists . So , social media isn't completely useless . LOL !! I believe they are currently technically considered apart of the country music genre . However , I am unsure they fully belong there . I am not all about genre's . I feel that as most music progresses we are going to find it difficult to separate one genre from another . Anywho , this tune from the duo has been played about 50 times....so far....today.....in my house . I LOVE IT!!! I . LOVE . IT . LOVE IT !!! I'm not a " love song " person per say , but this one just has me . It has me so , that I downloaded the entire album . So far , so great !!! The Shires also do a cover on this record of " Islands in the Streams " (originally recorded by Kenny Rogers and Dolly ) that is well worth a download . It's remincent and new all at the same time . I want to start hearing this duo on my local radio so , it is on my to-do to call in and start making some requests . If you wanna find out more about The Shires or to hear some samples click on this link www.theshiresmusic.com .
Next on #NewMusicMonday is an artist called Elle King . I heard this track once by random in the car and immediately needed to YouTube it so I could hear it again.....and again and again . Girl friend has some sass and you know how I respect sass when used properly . This jam just has be dancing all over the place and singing into my hair brush . See also my " I'm not a love song " person statement from above , this song is the opposite of a love song . It's more of a " thanks . see ya later . on to the next . " kind of song.....and I kinda like that . I love the idea of it being the guy that can't seem to let go . Time they taste their own medicine kind of a vibe . Elle is so new to me that I barely could tell you anything beyond she is a platinum blond w some serious sass factor and is currently touring with Vance Joy . Someone else I need to share with you if you haven't already heard of him . I haven't heard any of her other tunes yet , but plan to do so . Anyway , give it a listen girls !! And maybe you fella's should hear it too . You know , as a warning . Some of us just aren't the attachment type . To read up on Elle for yourself click on this www.elleking.com .
Elle King - "Ex's & Oh's"
Selena Gomez - " Same ol' Love "
fr - " Revival "
Last this #NewMusicMonday is a grown up graduate from Mickey Mouse Club and former Belieber . O.K . So , we are all watching from the outside , but can I just say I am so happy for Ms . Gomez to be done with Beiber ??!!! I know , who even cares ??!!! Apparently , I do . Anyone see the clip of a backstage run in where Selena see's Justin , kisses him on the cheek and Taylor Swift , Gomez's bff keeps walking whilst rolling her eyes ??!! Well , I am Taylor Swift on this topic . If you haven't seen that clip you should YouTube it . It's basically the only mean face I've seen Swift ever make . Back to topic , Selena Gomez has released two tracks off her newest album , " Revival " . I have liked both of them , but for very different reasons . The tune I am sharing with you is called , " Same ol' Love " , and has a fun arrangement that makes all the " I'm over it " type lyrics less eye rolly . I feel like you might need to know me to fully understand that statement . Hopefully you don't and totally get what I'm trying to say . LOL !!!
All the tunes mentioned in this #NewMusicMonday post can be found on #iTunes . I am sure they can be found a few other places , but that was my downloading source .
What have you been listening to as the seasons change ? I always feel like Fall is a Mumford and Sons listening kind of season . But that's just me . Please feel free to share your play list suggestions with us in the comment section !!! Follow me on #Insta for blog post updates , etc . Don't forget that as a listener you have the power to get the tunes you love airplay . I have recently saved the local stations numbers in my phone for song requesting purposes . The power of the song cycle is in your hands !!!Happy Listening and downloading!!
" I'm a black sheep , looking for other misfits to keep me company ." j . iron word
What a gift it is not to fit in . I love that statement ! Life isn't always about finding who you are as much as it is about finding who you are not . If that makes sense to ya . I'm not concerned with having tons of friends . I am concerned with having the right kind of friends for who I am . As you head into this weekend I would challenge you to look around . Are the folks you're giving your time to lifting you up or dragging ya down ?!! I pray lifting you up . I'd rather be alone , potentially lonely and true to who God has made me than with the wrong group and still feel all alone . It isn't quantity, it's quality . Look around . Happy Weekend Y'all !!!
I have been thinking quiet a bit about insecurities the last few days . How much control they can have over even the most confident of us . Everyone has them . I don't know it is possible to not have any . But , I think my truest issue with insecurities is not just the control it can have over you , your person alone . I take issue with when our insecurities spill over onto others . I have been a victim of the insecurity spill over and I am sure I have been guilty of spilling over . That should never happen !!!! Never allow YOUR insecurity to make someone else insecure . Fighting ones own insecurities with the truth of Gods grace is difficult all on its own . The weight of yours along with mine is almost unbearable . Let grace make us secure . This is a topic I would love to expound further on , but I don't feel like I have all my thoughts in a way that they can be expressed yet . Till then , let's remind one another how fearfully and wonderfully we are made . Accepting ones self is a feeling/truth that is hard to attain and even harder to retain . Hand out a complement or two and see how it not only makes the one complemented feel good , but you too .
Apologize for the quality of pic .
This is from my #insta .
You are loved gorgeous !!! Settle for nothing or no one less than God's best for you .
I apologize for the quality . It is from my #Instagram . #regram
Something about this wording hit me hard . There is so much to be learned from the changing of the seasons . My thoughts tonight are something like , how do we truly let go and trust Him to restore what we lose in the letting go ??!! It's hard . I suppose that is why the leaves do not all fall at once . Letting go is a process . Trusting that when things on the surface look dead , there is a deeper something happening . Believing that all that is lost will be restored . It's all a process . It all takes time . 🍷 Here is to the letting go and accepting the process . There is a reason for the seasons . Take what life is giving you , one season at a time . You are loved .
Uhm , I can think of NOTHING more OG than
Willie and Merle playing cards , each with a stack of
green backs at their side . I mean......
When I started thinking on this weeks #NewMusicMonday I knew I wanted to include some Haggard since he is playing the Tennessee Theater this week . Well , that along with this pic from The Hags facebook , because yes , even The Hag has facebook , got me spiraled into a original gangster of country music kind of mindset . So , this #NewMusicMonday starts with Merle Haggards , " Think I'll Just Sit Here and Drink ". To check out his facebook you can click here .
Austin City Limits Performance
One of the things I LOVE about older tunes is the story telling , not just of the song sang , but of the artist . Merle Haggard saw Johnny Cash perform while serving time in San Quentin prison . It was after that show Haggard decided to make a go of it once released . I mean.....I can't handle the awesomeness of that thought . To catch Merle's show go to the Tennessee Theater website for details !!!! It started as a dreary cold day where I am , could be a good day to just sit there and drink . Lol!!
Second on #NewMusicMonday is #DonHenley & #Dolly with "When I Stop Dreaming", from his newest album "Cass County". This will be the only " New Music " on this weeks #NewMusicMonday . However , the folks singing it qualify it for OG status . There are several notable duets on this album (including one w Haggard) and great solo tracks as well , but at the moment I am enchanted by this tune w Dolly . I think Henley can sing with just about anyone and make it magical , but there is a belt on this tune from Dolly that is extra magical . Takes me to a Tennessee mountain music kind of place . Henley says in promo's that Cass County is the album he has been waiting and wanting to make . After hearing just a few songs I don't understand why he wasn't allowed to make it sooner . #MusicalPolitcs #ICANT!!! Nothing but good on this record ! Take a listen for yourself w this track , "When I Stop Dreaming" .
Don Henley & Dolly Parton - "When I Stop Dreaming"
Fr: Cass County
The Judds - "Grandpa ( Tell Me 'Bout the Good ol' Days )"
fr : Rockin' with the Rhythm
So , last on #NewMusicMonday is one more throw back . My Papaws 88th bday was Friday and I have been listening to this song for over a week thinking about him and how much he has meant to me . I am praying for 88 more years for/with him . There aren't enough men like him in this world . I am not just being a biased grandchild when I say that .
As much as I love progress , musical or otherwise , it is a double edged sword . With every step forward we tend to loose a piece of the past thats gotten us to where we are . So , I invite you into my musical time machine to take a trip back and maybe return with a little something from back when .
