Billy Dukes
New Country Music Releases – August 2012
The summer heatwave comes a with a splash of country music before the days grow shorter and the kids return to school. The new country music releases for August 2012 are no exception. While July had so many country superstars with new country music releases that it was difficult to decide where to spend your money, August has just four that look promising.
Tim McGraw vs. Eric Church – The Showdown
After thousands of votes, Tim McGraw‘s ‘Truck Yeah’ clipped Kip Moore‘s ‘Beer Money’ by fewer than 40 votes on Monday. A last second push by McGraw fans on Taste of Country Nights radio gave the country-rocker an edge that held up. That makes three in a row for the lead single from McGraw’s new album. Two more and the track will be retired to the Showdown Hall of Fame.
When Does ‘The Voice’ Season 3 Start?
Details on the next season of NBC’s ‘The Voice‘ are being revealed slowly. The network is teasing fans with small morsels, one bite at a time, but they have shared when fans can expect to start tuning in — so when does Season 3 of ‘The Voice’ start?
The Mavericks, ‘Born to Be Blue’ – Song Review
The Mavericks couldn’t have timed their reunion more perfectly. The ’90s hitmakers bring their familiar sound back to country radio with ‘Born to Be Blue,’ a track from their new ‘Suited Up and Ready’ EP. Too often, getting the old band back together produces tired rewrites of a classic sound. The Mavericks have managed to keep their signature style without alienating younger fans.
RaeLynn Signs Record Deal With Republic Nashville
Country’s latest firecracker RaeLynn has signed a recording contract on the same label that the Band Perry calls home. ‘The Voice’ contestant announced the news Friday (July 13) on Twitter, thanking the two country superstars who helped guide her through the process.
Luke Bryan’s National Anthem Performance – Readers Poll
Luke Bryan and Kellie Pickler did country music proud last night, singing the National Anthem and ‘God Bless America’ at the MLB All-Star Game in Kansas City, Mo. It’s difficult to argue each singer’s performances were anything but spectacular, but some are wondering if the ‘Drunk on You’ singer might have had some help. What do you think Bryan was peeking at while he sang?
Zac Brown Band, ‘Uncaged’ – Album Review
On paper, ‘Uncaged’ should not work as an album, let alone a country music album. The new release from Zac Brown Band redefines “something for everybody.” Country, reggae, bedroom R&B… Brown and his ever-growing motley crew stretch the Nashville sound further than any other artist. If they weren’t so talented, this project would fall apart long before the title-track.
Carrie Underwood vs. Kristen Kelly – The Showdown
Much like the storm that rips through her song ‘Blown Away,’ Carrie Underwood is unstoppable. The singer built an early lead during yesterday’s Showdown against Hunter Hayes‘ hit ‘Wanted,’ and after both songs faced off on Taste of Country Nights, she was crowned champion once again. Her new single needs two more wins to be immortalized in the Taste of Country Showdown Hall of Fame.
Favorite Toby Keith Song – Readers Poll
Toby Keith is celebrating his 51st birthday today. The singer shows no signs of slowing down, however, having just released his best album in years and embarked on another summer tour that promises to be amongst the most successful of 2012. It was one of his early hits that made the Top 100 Country Songs list, but which is your personal favorite?
Carrie Underwood vs. Hunter Hayes – The Showdown
Friday night’s Showdown between Carrie Underwood and Little Big Town was the most voted on yet, with ‘Blown Away’ edging ‘Pontoon’ by 13 percentage points. That’s two wins in a row for the title-track on Underwood’s new album. The dark and stormy cut is clearing a path to the Showdown Hall of Fame, but future tourmate Hunter Hayes‘ ‘Wanted’ is threatening to contain her fury today and tonight on T
Moonshine Bandits, ‘Super Goggles’ – Song Premiere
California hip-hop/country group Moonshine Bandits have released a new single called ‘Super Goggles’ that might describe your weekend. The edgy new song pushes the boundaries of country music, but delivers a lyric that will sound great at the club this weekend.
Delta Rae Reveal Four Genre-Bending Songs in New Medley Video
Delta Rae fits between genres. The six-piece band from Durham, N.C. is sometimes pop, sometimes country or Americana, and often folk. Usually there’s some soul, but as you’ll see in this four-song video medley, the group is never predictable. If country radio becomes their home, it’s going to be a wild ride.