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Living In Luke Bryan’s Shadow

Dustin Lynch is on fire with his music. Not in the way you think though... he is a bit slower than the average artist with releasing singles and even slower with his music video relate rate. Like it couldn't get worse.

Backtrack to “Seein Red” his red hot single released in summer 2016.

Dustin did not think this was going to be the first new single in the follow up to his “Where it’s At” album that came out in 2014. Yet it was. Let us reflect why.

Dustin Lynch’s “Where Its At” was a wave of new country music much needed not only for himself but the industry as a whole. You anti “pop country” fans will disagree here.

Regardless, the shows he put on for this album, prior to it coming out and right after was some of the most raw, authentic performances I have ever seen. This was probably back in the woods when the amphitheaters were smaller and the tickets were $20. He was the most underrated country artist from 2012-2013. In 2014 he came out with a stronger presence rising the bar and upping his game. Lynch was being noticed in a way bigger magnitude than he ever had before. “Where Its At” was the music video that pushed him over the edge.

The next step was going on tour with Luke Bryan and this was the golden ticket. He was adored more than ever. He was all he was cracked up to be. He was more. If only these people knew of him in 2012 because that album was some good country music. Luke fans began to bandwagon, hard.

I am not saying this got to Dustin’s head and I am not directly saying it changed him... his persona differences between the years you can use your own judgement for. Not a lot of fans personally can vouch on his personality. Ain addition, a lot of his fans did not know the difference between is 2014 performances to his 2015. All the while still more talented than any other new artist in the game.

His tour with Luke was a good thing as it got him on the map more than he ever was before. He came a long way and fast.

However, this leaves a hole for the artist and his music. He was living in Luke Bryan’s shadow. It doesn't matter if people compare them.. because either way people know him as Luke’s opening act.

See, he had to break away from this for his own “brand.” He needed to create something on his own, he needed to get who he was out there, without Luke. Who he was before the tour, which he was still that artist but he needed to do it apart from being on a big name tour so people did not associate the two.

His record label probably wanted this more than Lynch did. You cannot be the new Luke or next Luke and he was not trying to be. Yet, when you are so similar in sound, touring with him and he follows up... the fans associate you like that even if they don't want to.

Dustin Lynch needed to be his own powerhouse, especially if he wants to headline his own tour in the near future. He cannot be Luke next generation and perform in a similar way. It won't work. He knows that, he probably doesn't even want that.

This is why “Seein Red” was so imperative for his image.

He wanted to take the sexier route on this album anyway, which is a whole lot different than Dustin’s first CD.

You cannot keep doing the same thing in this day of age, understandably. Country is different in my opinion because raw country over and over is why people love it the way they do. It is the lifestyle; not the genre. Country and Western is different than other types of music where you constantly have to switch it up. Country artists - do the same thing in my opinion.

However, the fans and the times are changing. Which changes the requirements altogether.

This is why “Small Town Boy” was not the next single even though that was the initial thought. This is why it was the follow up.. bit closer to the roots. Or was? “Dancing in The Headlights” forever.

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#STB

Get excited! “Small Town Boy” known also as “Small Town Boy Like Me” by the one and only Dustin Lynch is going to be released tonight at midnight. 

Now, let us flash back to last summer. All the posts about this amazing song... I have been basically begging on social media for Dustin to release this as his next single. I deemed that it would be so. I was bold enough to make the prediction and it is now official, although it took more time than I thought.

You could only hear this song... if you heard it live. The most frustrating thing was having to look back at your own recordings or other fans’ recordings which was very shaky and audio blown by camera phone sound. 

All I know is it is going to be everything I hoped it would be.

Most importantly, I announced this before country radio or any other media outlet. I told y'all about this before Dustin did. Although, It wasn’t hard to figure out it was going to be a single; the moment he started writing and collaborating this new album... this song was everything. “Seein’ Red” was a rushed music video with a much needed image boost for the artist. 

“Small Town Boy” -

This is back to the true roots of his music. Although he stripped the twang from his voice and got more sexy with the tune... Dustin Lynch did drop hints that this new album was heading that way, so it was to be expected. Lynch really did different things with his vocals on this one.

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Jason Aldean’s Music

Let us jump inside the music.

My personal review -

First couple albums were good, right? He was different… maybe he did not shine right away but that is the best thing about being and finding a new artist. Regardless, I liked it.

Then as of late, couple years ago, things got weird. The music had a different tune, he combined other genres into his music (as most do in country these days) and every song seemed to sound the same.

Do not get me wrong… I liked his songs over the past three years. I just think they all sounded like they were apart of one, they were apart of each other?

“They Don’t Know” is Aldean’s 7th studio CD. This one seems a bit more old school; old school on a scale of country these days. He seems to be getting back to basics.

Thoughts?

Jason seems to be getting a little more down to the roots with the songs on these albums. Of course there are tracks that are the exception. The singing from the heart does not go unnoticed.

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Soul2Soul

The highly anticipated duo concert is finally happening! It is real life!

Tim McGraw and Faith Hill are going on tour together. Why the announcement so early? WHO CARES! I am a planner anyway. 

The hot country couple kicks off the tour in 2017. They announced the tour during a show in Nashville which apparently was supposed to be on the down-low… but wasn’t. This tour is going to have 65 stops, yes, 65, from New Orleans to NYC.

All you country fans know that this is not the first time they’ve toured together but it is possible it will be their last… unless you are into the reunion/goodbye tour scene. Either way, we know they will bring it, as they always have.

It is a wonderful thing when husband and wife get to travel together, work together and not put so much strain on themselves while apart. They are used to it and they have a system down. Nonetheless, it is great that they don’t have to be apart for so long. Will the constant being together bring some stress? Maybe. Although, sometimes, like the love of a new flame, you just click and the groove brings the issues to a zero count.

Faith Hill has been out of the game for a while but we know she is still a strong performer; so the hopes are high. Especially, now that the kids require less attention. 

Tim McGraw is on a role, as he has been consistent with releasing new material. As the singer once said, “don’t judge an artist by his/her single.. get the album.” The dates for the previous Soul2Soul tours were 2000 and 2006, soon we can add in 2017.

The tour stops and dates are set... so go do ya some research and find a show!

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Review Time

Move- Luke Bryan.

Let’s talk about that hair. 

Yes, this is the first thing I am brining up. He really did not look like himself there at the end. Now, i know you are going to say “well he was dressed up and in a suit.” No, guys, that is not why. I have seem him host the awards, I have seen him dressed fancy.

There was something else going on entirely. It was flipped different.

Now to the important part- I am done with the hair rant.

This music video really broke the mold with the rumors “country is going pop.” Yes, there is more pop country, yes that is still considered country. “Seein’ Red” is probably the key example. Pop sound? Yes. Country back drop? YES! Do you have that country sound in the background of that song? Gives me goosebumps the way the instrument goes.

Luke has always kept his music videos pretty country, even the songs that have a pop beat. This one changes his game. It is more classy. More Jazzy NYC underground. The girl still does a country dance but with there regular boots. Luke is bringing the sexier, classier side of his gentlemen self. 

All in all, it was different. Not the best, not the worst, not country, not.. not country. Just different. Expected a bit more with this song. The lyrics don't match the picture the lyrics painted. The only thing matched was the whole “move” aspect. Sure, I guess that makes sense as that is the bare root of the song. The song does go on to explain the yankee girl coming down from the city to the country to get in with some southern bells. I suppose it is appropriate... but there was a different way to go about it, if you were expecting more of a country... the small town. The girls. The guys. The barn?

His newer songs are getting more personal and more old school country. Check out the ones he has released thus far in September 2016. 

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Barbed Roads & Dirt Fences

Luke Bryan is on the down low but I got the scoop. The man is working on his NEXT album. Does he stop? Artists normally tour on and off. Few years here, one year there. He has been on a constant whirlwind since Tailgates & Tanlines went off the charts. Luke has been on an uninterrupted spin of tours since Crash My Party. Let us get in with that farm tour sound first! Another year, another album, another tour. We won't say no....

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It’s Hot As Hell but It’s Just Right

Yesterday marked the day Florida Georgia Line released their third album. There are reviews coming in left and right. Let me give you some of my personal opinions... 

I'm feelin’ it. As a review: This album shows the remarkable talent of these men. The first two albums weren't a let down but there was a lack of real expression. It was feel good music and that is why they quickly soared to #1 on my favorite list. Not to say they didn't give it their all but they were holding back. Only because, they knew not of what they were capable of. I think they've discovered themselves, a deeper part of their inner song writer, making this current album. 

The vocals Hubbard and BK have are strong, they've really progressed amazingly as artists. They've really put the work in to their songs and this album shows how much they've grown. Year after year.

A few songs to be on the look out for: Dig Your Roots, Heatwave, While He’s Still Around, May We All & Island. 

“Heatwave” is somethin’ else. Love seein’ this sexier side of Brian. Can we keep it together? I can dig this song about the one he loves most. “Dig Your Roots” made me proud... of them, me, my hometown. Those lyrics stand for who they are. This is FGL. “While He’s Still Around” is on an emotional level. Self explanatory. 

“May We All” has a nice crossover between the music FGL produces the influence Tim McGraw’s music and lyrics bring. As McGraw once said “don't judge an artist by his/her single.” Get the entire album. I feel like this especially goes with Dig Your Roots. There is so much more than meets the eye with the level of deep connection the songs on this album bring. These songs bring out Florida Georgia Line’s personalities more than ever before, they open up to us and we as fans feel closer. “May We All” is a song of life, it is magical. Like an open letter, if you will. 

“Island” is another one BK got down with. I think it is paired nicely with “Life Is A Honeymoon” to get anyone in a good mood. “Island” is sung in a way you think it is sang directly to you, it taps into your own feelings. As if you could close your eyes and pour your heart into singing the lyrics, like you were on a planet all to yourself. You know exactly who your singing it to. 

Tyler Hubbard turns up per usual, would we expect anything else? Keep on, keepin’ on Tyler. This CD has a nice 15 song spend on it, not the skimpy 12 song albums coming out as of late. Dig Your Roots is a win.

This entire album they've let us in but the songs mentioned show a more intimate side of Tyler and Brian and by the end you feel as if you've just watched a movie. As an album should be. 

Brian Kelley brings it all given more individual mic time. I admire Brian showcasing his voice on this album. Dig Your Roots was much anticipated.... and it delivered. 

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Tours

Kelsea Ballerini is planning a full out headlining tour. Good for her but is she ready? Can girl rock it on stage? YES. Have you ever seen her jam out and get lost in the music? Check out Youtube if not.... 

I do not think however, that she is ready to headline. Isn't she still too new? Is she “big enough.” Are these tours going to be local bar and small venue type tours? I think she is ready to headline and be the main performer if Kelsea is going to be performing at college auditoriums, local bar venues, festivals and theaters.

Arena tours are not going to work yet. The good news is though, we get to see her in concert! I think the ABC show is a great outlet and way to get out there, grow her brand as a musician and her songs known.... I think that is how you do it. With the proper following the headlining tour will come. I guess we will wait and see to know how long, how many legs, and where the concerts will be! In the meantime catch her on the road with Rascal Flatts. 

She will rock it either way! Read more here. 

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Pop ... Country?

Dustin Lynch is talented and his next album is going to be jaw dropping, I mean it is going to be “red hot.” It is causing anxiety for a lot of us to wait until tomorrow, Friday the 24th. The anticipation is burning and we need to hear the full song.

Going off of that- 

This is what I keep hearing in regards to his new single: that he has done it, he has gone pop. Not too long ago Dustin Lynch wasn't mainstream, he wasn't well known. I scored a hot ticket for 20 bucks in Flagstaff, AZ. This was in 2014, when he was introducing his then new album. Hanging out on stage after the show, talking to people.

In 2012 I already was hooked because even without the signing, Lynch has a unique voice but what he can do with his vocal cords honestly sets him apart from anyone else. Just different. It is knee dropping. How he sings with such a passion; it almost feels like his voice goes right through you. 

So is he mainstream now? From his previous albums, no.

Back to the single... it has a little twang but it has a pop kick. The more you listen to it, the more country is sounds. Listen to the first 20 seconds of this video from Dustin’s page! Analyze.

https://www.facebook.com/dustinlynchmusic/videos/10154246079604334/

What is making it pop...since this seems to be most of the concern to some fans. The way he tunes his voice and sings the lyrics might be doing it. The tone is actually country and western style. I am thinking the repeating of words is where it gets real close to the pop culture. 

It isn't just a fiddle and a voice anymore in country music. This “pop sound” is pushing a lot of long time fans away but I am going to be honest, it is catchy. I think once the full song comes out any fans not loving it have a possibility of being reeled right back in. It has a hook to it. 

We got the hands talking in this next clip. With “Small Town Boy Like Me” and “Seein Red” I think it is safe to say that this record will be hitting ‘records’ in no time. I am listening to this teaser on repeat sooooo. 

https://www.facebook.com/dustinlynchmusic/videos/10154254242619334/

That only leaves us with one more question.... did he write this song? He writes his own music, yes. However, was this one written by him? Written by a song writer? I have to know! As a country music industry person myself, this is something I will have to know!

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New Music

Dustin Lynch has released the announcement that he is going to have a new single out in one week from today! Is this really new news though? Seein’ Red will be the name of the new song.. if you couldn't catch on to the red filtered pictures or anything. 

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Game Time

Do country artist’s videos match their songs? 

Up first:

“American Country Love Song” by Jake Owen

He is truly a great artist, talented, fun, the song is amazing... but what do you think of the music video with the lyrics? What goes? What doesn't? 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WnyOOSE0z1c

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Granger Smith

ALERT***

You really wouldn't think he just got his first number one! Yet he has.

“Backroad Song” is official! 

About time... am I right? Now let us get some of these other songs on the radio. “Singles” Am I Right.

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“Takin a Little Back Road”

Ayyyy, Dierks. 

How’s the Midwest life treatin’ ya? 

Ridin’ in a Jeep around some Wisconsin country side ain’t the worst way to spend a Tuesday night. 

https://www.facebook.com/dierksbentley/photos/a.165052025132.242340.13084565132/10156985126480133/?type=3&theater

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Tinted Pictures

I am sure you have seen... the red shaded pics. It is everywhere, taking over Facebook, Instagram, I mean take a peek: https://www.instagram.com/dustinlynchmusic/?hl=en

...That my friends, is if you are a Dustin Lynch fan. Take a look at his Instagram! (link above)

You want the scoop? New music. Want another lead? New album. 

All in the works. One of his next new singles will be: “Small Town Boy Like Me”! 

I mean really, he is already introducing the songs at his shows. If you haven't seen him live, this is your call to do so as soon as you can. Dustin Lynch’s strong vocals make a statement a cappella alone and he hits every note. Not only that, but he can sure hold that note! 

May be the best live authentic country show I’ve ever seen... Oh yeah, and I am referring to the one of two times I have seen him live. (2014) Before then his shows were just as powerful as they are now I assure you. 

His voice is truly angelic. Country forever. 

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Country?

What to think about Sam Hunt’s “new” song?

I don't know if I loathe it or I like it a little.. I think it is catchy. I don't think it is considered country, unless we are warping country and another genre again.

According to country and western... it doesn't qualify. Oh, the decline of traditional country music. Maybe, let us come up with another name for combined genres. I like “new country.” This still isn't it. YOU HAVE TO KNOW WHAT RADIO STATION TO PUT IT ON!!

“COUNTRY IS EVOLVING.” YEAH, I KNOW. THIS AINT IT!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLrrhX5o34g

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Gettin’ Down With The Cigars

Luke Bryan is enjoying himself. Rarely, is he not in big smiles, tanned up and full of happy vibes. Today, Luke got a little preview, the shop opens in July, if you are around swing by! Good closer to a long, nice weekend? I would say so, Luke probably would too as he jammed out on the water to some Dierks over the weekend.

https://twitter.com/shorethingcigar/status/737752357136695297

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I Believe In Nashville

Yes, we all know the of the place the season finale left us in. While it had closure with a lot of characters, it was not a “series finale” we were looking for and I think we can all agree with that. It was an actual ending to the season and to story lines but nothing was “wrapped.” The cliffhanger showed more than enough of that. 

So, that leaves us with the mystery of, is Nashville coming back? Why would execs even leave the show in that place without the major possibility of the show being picked up by another network? OK BYE ABC. 

Why even speak about the alternate ending? Right? You didn't give it to us, you should of if there wasn't a strong “pick up” possibliity. Is the reason valid? What do you think? (No)

Lionsgate TV head gives us this answer, “There’s a little short-term pain but ultimately long-term gain because we intend and are quite focused and are in substantive and serious conversations with multiple buyers about continuing the show on another platform,” Beggs saysRead More: 'Nashville' Exec Explains Show's Shocking Ending | http://tasteofcountry.com/nashville-finale-explained/?trackback=tsmclip

Clearly, he says they would of had a different ending if they did not think the show was coming back. Is that some peace for us the fans? Is it not good enough? I have a solid feeling about it but if it doesn't come back, prepare for disappointed fans. 

Think of the fans first, the story line second. Can we cheers to that? Prepare, do not worry about the show limitations as good writers will worm around it.