On January 23, 2026, several prominent country artists unveiled fresh music, blending nostalgia, storytelling, and rising talent. Highlights include Parker McCollum's long-requested single, Hudson Westbrook's sophomore EP, Reba McEntire's anniversary album edition, and Kashus Culpepper's debut project.
The country music scene kicked off the year with a robust New Music Friday slate on January 23, 2026, featuring releases from established and emerging artists alike.
Parker McCollum satisfied fan demands by releasing 'Big Ole Fancy House,' a track co-written with Lori McKenna, Liz Rose, and Hillary Lindsey. The song emphasizes classic country themes of love and simplicity, regardless of material success. 'Y’all been asking for this one for a while so I’m glad it’s finally getting to you,' McCollum said in a statement. 'Took a couple of times of cutting it before it felt good enough to release… Appreciate all the love everyone has shown this song. Means a lot.' This single will feature on the Deluxe Edition of his album PARKER MCCOLLUM, set for March 20, 2026. McCollum has upcoming tours, including his fourth Houston Rodeo appearance and a return to the sold-out Red Rocks Amphitheatre.
Hudson Westbrook followed with his sophomore EP, Exclusive, a five-song collection he co-wrote with Neil Medley, Lukas Scott, Beau Bailey, and Dan Alley. It draws on Texas influences and personal perspectives. 'This EP is different for me because I was able to write from a different perspective than my last record, while staying true to my Texas influences,' Westbrook stated. 'The fans are really connecting to the songs and I’m happy this is finally out in the world.' The EP arrives amid his rising profile, with a national debut on NBC’s TODAY, his single 'House Again' climbing to the Top 10 at radio, and over one billion career streams. He has tour slots with Bailey Zimmerman and Morgan Wallen, plus festivals in 2026.
Reba McEntire marked a milestone with the 30th anniversary edition of her 1995 album Starting Over, which originally topped the Billboard Country Albums Chart and achieved Platinum status. It includes classics like 'On My Own,' a collaboration with Trisha Yearwood, Martina McBride, and Linda Davis. The new version adds bonus tracks: Reba’s cover of 'Tulsa Time' by Don Williams, 'Heat Wave,' and 'Misty Blue.'
Kashus Culpepper, a GRAMMY Artist to Watch, debuted Act I, an 18-track album blending Americana, Southern rock, and country. Recorded at Ivy Manor Studio in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, it features tracks like 'Break Me Like,' 'Alabama Beauty Queen,' 'Cherry Rose,' 'In Her Eyes,' and 'Broken Wing Bird' with Sierra Ferrell. 'Creating music has been the greatest joy of my life,' Culpepper shared. 'My debut album Act I serves as a beginning of that journey… thank you to every musical idol I’ve ever had.' He received praise from Elton John, who compared him to 'if Bill Withers made country music,' and John Mayer, calling him 'as good as it gets.'
Other notable drops included Carly Pearce’s 'Church Girl' and Ashley McBryde’s 'What If We Don’t,' rounding out a diverse playlist for fans.
