A Song of the Year is not just a “song.” It’s a form of artistic expression that can change a life, that can change someone’s perspective, or that can change the world. It’s something that must be able to give you goosebumps.
It’s as big as Montana. It’s independently-owned. And it was the first festival that had the cajones to put on a massive festival with independent artists at the top of a poster. It’s Under The Big Sky Festival.
Shane Smith and the Saints evoke an epicness and weight through their songs that is virtually unparalleled in the modern era of music. It’s almost akin to Bach and Beethoven how they stir the emotions of man.
In a move that can only be characterized as unprecedented and perhaps even career-defining, Zach Bryan has refused to submit his recent album ‘The Great American Bar Scene’ to the Grammy Awards for 2025 consideration.
Since the Grammy Awards are one of the few awards that weigh artistic merit over commercial success, it makes it a bit more important to pay attention to for fans and advocates of independent artists.
The 2024 installment of AmericanaFest transpired in Nashville last week, giving fans, members of the industry, and fellow artists an opportunity to check out much of the talent in the independent side of country and roots.
We’re rounding the corner on the summer, but the hits keep coming. The last month or two has seen some of the top album releases of the year, and many of them are represented in the latest additions to the playlist.