Nashville, TN – The weekend of July 12th through July 14th, 2025, proved to be a significant period for new music, particularly within the vibrant country music scene. Several prominent artists delivered highly anticipated projects, offering fans a diverse range of sounds and collaborations that are already making waves.
Riley Green Unveils Intimate ‘Midtown Sessions’
CMA and ACM Award-winning singer-songwriter Riley Green treated his fanbase to “Midtown Sessions,” a brand-new acoustic EP released on July 12th. Produced by Erik Dylan and distributed via Nashville Harbor Records & Entertainment, this collection serves as a stripped-back showcase of Green’s undeniable artistry. The EP follows his well-received October 2024 album, “Don’t Mind If I Do,” and offers listeners a more intimate look at his songwriting prowess and vocal delivery, highlighting the raw emotion that has become a hallmark of his career.
Lambert and Stapleton Deliver First True Duet, ‘A Song To Sing’
In a landmark collaboration, country music powerhouse Miranda Lambert joined forces with the legendary Chris Stapleton for their first true duet, “A Song To Sing.” Dropped on July 14th, the track was penned by the accomplished trio of Jesse Frasure, Jenee Fleenor, and Stapleton himself. The song immediately captivated listeners with its rich sonic tapestry, characterized by the evocative blend of smoky Wurlitzer clouds and the silken strumming of guitars. This powerful pairing reflects a deep, shared connection not only to the craft of music but also to the very essence of home, resonating with a profound sense of place and belonging.
Yelawolf and J. Michael Phillips Merge Worlds on ‘Whiskey & Roses’
Further expanding the genre’s boundaries, hip-hop artist Yelawolf partnered with rising urban country artist J. Michael Phillips for their collaborative album, “Whiskey & Roses.” This 10-track collection, released under Yelawolf’s independent label Slumerican on July 13th, was masterfully produced by Taysty. Recorded at the renowned East Iris Studios in Nashville, the album represents a bold fusion of their distinct musical styles. “Whiskey & Roses” promises a fresh and compelling take on country music, bridging the gap between urban beats and traditional country sensibilities, creating a soundscape that is both familiar and entirely new.
Ian Flanigan’s AI-Free ‘Earth and Airwaves’ Offers Soothing Melodies
Adding another layer of sonic diversity, “The Voice” finalist Ian Flanigan announced the release of his instrumental EP, “Earth and Airwaves.” This project, carefully crafted and entirely AI-free, was created with a deeply personal intention: to soothe his newborns. Released on July 12th, the EP masterfully blends natural field recordings with melodic compositions, offering a tranquil and organic listening experience. Flanigan’s commitment to creating a pure, human-centric sound for his children is evident in every track, providing a peaceful respite for listeners seeking a connection to nature and genuine musical artistry.
This past weekend undoubtedly showcased the dynamic and evolving nature of country music, with established stars and emerging talents alike delivering projects that underscore the genre’s continued creativity and widespread appeal. The releases from Riley Green, Miranda Lambert, Chris Stapleton, Yelawolf, J. Michael Phillips, and Ian Flanigan collectively highlight a rich tapestry of sounds, from intimate acoustic performances to genre-bending collaborations and pure, nature-inspired soundscapes.
