In the world of country music, not many newcomers have the same southern charm as the country greats like Kenny Chesney, Garth Brooks and King George. New country is more of a cross between pop and a little bit of country — often referred to as "stadium country." This type of music is OK, but nothing beats the twangy sound of that old southern charm. These are some newcomers that have been able to completely revamp the country music genre, while still remaining true to the core of the genre.
1. Drake White
He just released his first album, titled "Spark," last week after his hit single, "It Feels Good," released. I instantly fell in love with his raspy tone and his true testament to the twang of country. From the upbeat party anthem, "It Feels Good," to the bluesy crooning of "Making Me Look Good Again," this newcomer has everything it takes to be a country super star.
2. Maren Morris
My personal favorite on this list. This Texas native took the country music world by storm with her hit "My Church." Like Drake White, Maren also sings with a soulfulness that not many artists have the ability to do. There isn't a single song on this album that I don't want to listen to on repeat. If you liked "My Church," I recommend "Drunk Girls Don't Cry" or "Rich." If you like Miranda Lambert, you'll love Maren Morris. She has the same "girls rule" attitude that women in country have to have to make it. Maren sings with a vibe that makes you want to forget the world and go for a drive.
3. The Cadillac Three
Not necessarily a new group, but they aren't superstars quite yet, although they should be. This group entered the country music scene with an amazing tribute to the south appropriately titled, "The South," which is a southern pride song with country stars Dierks Bentley and Florida Georgia Line accompanying the group. Their new songs, "White Lightning" and "Drunk Like You," prove the old raspy country is still lingering, and they add their own flare, which I can only describe as grit.
4. Kane Brown
I first heard Kane Brown on random Facebook videos that people would share. Now, he's quickly rising as cream of the newcomer crop. His initial release of "Used To Love You Sober" was a pretty well known hit throughout country music radio. Now with the release of "Thunder In The Rain," I believe that Kane Brown is going to prove that you can mix stadium country with classic country and get something amazing from it.
5. Whiskey Myers
Honestly, when trying to pick my fifth artist for this list, nobody stood out. I started listening to some new country music and ran across this charm of a group. They are amazing. I recently downloaded the song "Stone," and I cannot stop listening to it. They have a vibe like Chris Stapleton and command respect with the first note that they belt out on the track. Talk about goosebumps! This band deserves to be as big as they want to be.
