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

There are weeks when New Music Friday feels a little overwhelming. So many releases. So many links. So many songs fighting for a spot in your rotation.

That’s why I’m keeping it simple.

These are the four songs I’ll be playing all weekend long. We have a love letter to hardworking men, a Nashville songwriting legend reimagining Bob Dylan, a Texas-sized tale of betrayal and a young artist proving that classic country is alive and very well.

Let’s get into it!

1. KARISSA ELLA — “Working Man”

“Working Man” is for the kind of man who isn’t afraid to get his hands dirty—and the person who feels lucky to have him in their corner.

Inspired by someone special in Karissa Ella’s own life, the song celebrates the men who work hard, chase their dreams and still make sure the people they love feel supported along the way.

And honestly? There is something so refreshing about a love song built around showing up.

Because the strongest relationships aren’t only made in the big, romantic moments.

They’re built in the early mornings, long days, difficult seasons and quiet decisions to keep choosing each other.

“Working Man” honors the partners who put just as much effort into building a lasting relationship as they do into building a better life. It feels genuine, grounded and made for anyone who knows that reliability can be one of the most romantic qualities of all.

Add this one to your playlist—and maybe send it to your favorite hardworking man while you’re at it. 🤎

2. MARCUS HUMMON — “Like a Rolling Stone”

When the songwriter behind “Cowboy Take Me Away” and “Bless the Broken Road” releases his own version of a Bob Dylan classic, we listen.

Marcus Hummon has spent decades helping shape the soundtrack of country music.

He is one of Nashville’s most respected songwriters and recording artists, and his interpretation of “Like a Rolling Stone” reminds us exactly why.

This doesn’t feel like someone simply covering a famous song.

It feels like one extraordinary songwriter sitting down with the work of another—honoring what made it timeless while bringing his own life, artistry and perspective to every line.

Dylan was a profound influence on Marcus’s musical journey, and you can hear that connection in this recording. There is history here. There is craftsmanship. Most of all, there is the authenticity that has defined Marcus’s career from the beginning.

The song also gives us a first glimpse of what is coming next from his upcoming EP, Swing and Miss.

If this release is any indication, we have a lot to look forward to.

3. HARPER GRACE — “what was mine (tennessee waltz)”

Harper Grace is taking one of country music’s most familiar stories of betrayal and giving it a modern Texas twist.

On “what was mine (tennessee waltz),” the Curb Records newcomer travels back to the kind of 1950s barroom where the Patti Page classic might have played from the jukebox.

But this time, Harper is telling the story in her own way.

Love is lost. A friendship is broken. Loyalty disappears somewhere between the first dance and the final goodbye.

Some heartbreak stories never get old—probably because human beings keep finding new ways to live them.

Harper blends traditional country influences with her own fresh perspective, creating a sorrowful ballad that feels nostalgic without being stuck in the past. It’s classic heartbreak for a new generation, delivered by a rising songstress who continues to show us that she understands the power of a great country story.

Put this one on when you want to stare dramatically out the window and pretend your life is a music video. We’ve all been there.

4. CARLISLE WRIGHT — “Wright Kind of Country”

This is exactly what country music needs right now.

“Wright Kind of Country” has the classic sound, playful spirit and instant sing-along quality that make you want to roll the windows down and turn the volume all the way up.

And yes, Carlisle Wright is the great-niece of Alan Jackson—the man she sweetly calls “Uncle Hat.”

Country music clearly runs in this family because this song is as catchy as one of those classic Alan Jackson hits you somehow know every word to before the second chorus is over.

But Carlisle isn’t simply leaning on a famous family name. She is building something of her own, and “Wright Kind of Country” makes a very convincing introduction.

She understands what people miss about classic country: memorable melodies, clever lyrics, personality and songs that are actually fun to sing. This track has all of it.

Carlisle is absolutely one to watch. If this is her kind of country, it’s our kind too.

Four songs. Four very different stories. One very good 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!