Five new songs, five completely different reasons to press play — and every one of them belongs on your weekend playlist.

This week, we have an otherworldly voice inspired by a line from The Lord of the Rings, campfire vibes and crisp fall nights, a country storyteller finding her place in the world, a whimsical new favorite from an artist who simply can’t miss and a cowboy anthem that is so Chancey Williams.

Let’s get into it!

1. IZZY MAHOUBI (FEAT JAID JOICE) – “Hound Of The Strays”

The first time I heard Izzy Mahoubi’s voice, I was transfixed.

There is something truly other worldly in her sound, which is why the fact that this song was inspired by the Lord of the Rings line “Not all who wander are lost,” makes perfect sense.

This track features her friend Jaide Joice of Lost Highway Records and together they capture a perfect blend of folk, country rock, indie pop, Americana, and desert blues.

Catch Izzy on the podcast on 9/30!

2. CITYCREED (FEAT CLOE HUBBARD) – “The Barrel Of Her Gun”

This song is campfire vibes and crisp fall nights in musical form.

It makes me want to put on my oldest flannel shirt, meet some friends in the woods, and have that campfire smell in my hair all weekend.

If this one doesn’t usher fall right in, I don’t know what will.

3. LAUREN ELIZA – “The Girl From Nowhere”

Born in Alabama, Lauren Eliza grew up as a military daughter moving around the world without a true place to call home.

This experience deeply shapes the candid country storytelling at the heart of her music.

Influenced by LeAnn Womack, Sheryl Crow, and Kacey Musgraves, Eliza pairs a sharp pen with soaring vocals and infectious melodies.

Her debut EP, The Girl From Nowhere, arrives October 16, drawing from her unconventional upbringing and the experience of finding identity and belonging along the way.

4. ELIZABETH NICHOLS – “Nice Girl”

I love everything Elizabeth does — she can’t miss!

She writes music we can relate to while keeping it so whimsical that you can’t help but smile. She’s at exit/in in Nashville on 10/9.

Trust me on this one – get your tickets and see her in this intimate venue so you can tell your friends you knew her first.

5. CHANCEY WILLIAMS – “Things a Cowboy Ain’t Ever Gonna Say”

I LOVE Chancey and this song made me smile because it’s so him.

But it also took me back to one of my favorite Kellie pickler songs “things that never cross a man’s mind.” I’m thinking a mashup/collab with these two artists would be iconic!

Come see us again soon, Chancey. We can’t wait for the new album!

Five new songs, five completely different reasons to press play — and every one of them belongs on your weekend playlist.

Which one are you playing first?
Let me know over on Instagram or Facebook—and don’t forget to send me the new releases you think deserve a spot on next week’s list.
Happy New Music Friday, y’all!