New Music Friday: July 31, 2026

I am sitting down with Onoleigh for an interview in a couple of weeks, and I cannot wait because I already have about a hundred questions.

These songs definitely came from real-life experiences, and I think every one of us will find ourselves somewhere in these lyrics.

Raw emotions, beautiful songwriting, and vocals that somehow get even better every release. Go ahead and add this one to your playlist now.

I’ve been on a huge Americana kick this summer, and this song lands right in the sweet spot.

There’s something timeless about it—it makes me want to sit on a porch with a glass of wine, good friends, and nowhere to be.

Bonus points if you turn it up just in time for the line:

“The years go by in the blink of an eye / But the days still roll by one hour at a time.”

Kat Velasco knows exactly how to write a song that makes you feel like you’re starring in your own TV show.

If you catch me strutting through the Gulch making unnecessary eye contact with strangers because I’m clearly the main character…this is probably what’s playing in my headphones.

Beth Dutton would absolutely approve.

If you’ve listened to my conversation with Hollye B on the podcast, then you already know she’s just as genuine offstage as she is on it.

That authenticity is what makes her music so interesting and powerful. “Ain’t Got Nothin’” is soulful and deep.

It will take you on a journey that is all your own.

Stephen Wilson Jr. has quickly become one of those artists I’ll listen to no matter what he releases.

Pair him with Miranda Lambert, and you know I’m pressing play immediately. “Hardwired” is gritty, honest, and packed with the kind of storytelling both artists do so well.

This one feels destined to become a fan favorite.

Nicole Croteau takes a childhood memory that could have stayed painful and somehow turns it into one of the most empowering songs you’ll hear this week.

Inspired by an experience with bullying in sixth grade, “Tajín” is nostalgic, funny, relatable, and full of confidence. I love that she reminds us the people who made us question ourselves don’t get to define who we become.

Plus, Nicole will be joining me on the podcast soon, and after hearing this song, you’ll be dying to get to know her.

Jenny Tolman has always had a gift for creating unforgettable characters, and “Big Mama” is no exception.

From the very first line, you’re invested. You know this is a story you need to hear. Then the chorus comes in and those harmonies are unmistakable – Brandon Ratcliff and Suzanne Cox come in with voices that blend so perfectly with Jenny that you feel like you’re sitting in that church pew with Big Mama and Honey Child.

If you love clever songwriting with a whole lot of personality, don’t skip this one.

Mike Thomas is another artist you’ll be hearing from on the podcast very soon, so I was excited to see this one on today’s release list.

“Cold River Runnin’” has that classic country feel that never goes out of style. It feels lived-in, honest, and like the perfect soundtrack for a drive with the windows down.

If you can listen to this one without stomping your foot to the beat, it might be time to get to the audiologist. It’s impossible to keep my feet still when this one is playing.

Kurt Stevens is coming in strong this week with a song that is just asking to be played at a tiki bar along the Florida coast.

You can hear the Bob Marley and Kenny Chesney influence in this one.

It’s perfect for these hot summer days.

After the year Shaboozey has had, this might be one of the most anticipated country releases of the summer.

The Outlaw Cherie Lee & Other Western Tales continues to showcase exactly why he’s become one of the most exciting voices in the genre.

If you’re looking for one full album to spend your weekend with, I’d start here.