Country 102.5 Artist Interviews Podcast

In his 30 year career, this has never happened to Tim McGraw. Never has he moved up a show to make room for a sporting event. But, he's ready to be the "pep rally for Boston." As he put it "we'll just show up and rally for the Bruins and Celtics." 

Lots to talk about with the man behind all those hits. What's one of his favorite older songs to play, that he never gets tired of? Hear what McGraw had to say, Or what's one bad habit he has? Yes, that's the title of his new single, but he did share a bad and good habit. 

We look forward to seeing Tim McGraw at the TD Garden, it's been too long since he played there. Catch my interview with Tim here and he talks about his return to Boston.  

Tyler Hubbard has a renewed energy. After releasing his 2nd solo album, the longtime lead vocalist of Florida Georgia Line is excited to be starting over.

Hubbard says he loves getting back to playing some of the more intimate venues, and just announced he'll perform at Boston's House of Blues in November. He's also on the schedule for Indian Ranch this summer, in August. 

Tyler talks about bringing his family on the road, the new album, Strong, and much more. We play a game called "Back Then Right Now" in honor of his current single. 

It's fun getting to know Tyler through his answers in the game. Find out who one of his new favorite country artists is, the concert he brought his family to in Boston last summer and who's t-shirt he had as a kid. It's all right here, in talking with Tyler Hubbard. 

It's been an absolute whirlwind for Scotty McCreery, as of late. The American Idol winner and new dad has a new album coming out very soon. He was just made an official member of the Grand Ole Opry, a life long dream, and he recently brought his baby to Fenway for the first time. 

Listen here as Scotty and I talk about all the exciting things going on in his life right now. And of course, we play a game. I call it Sporty McCreery to find out more about this bigtime sports fan. 

Hot new country artist Chayce Beckham has just released his debut album. And although it's been 3 years since the California native won American Idol, it's been a much longer journey than that, and a life filled with twists and turns. It's all led Chayce right here and now with Bad For Me,the album. 

Beckham talks about a couple of his standout favorites on the record, as well as a couple of songs he didn't write but had a connection with. It's a deeply personal album, which is exactly what Chayce wanted. 

Congratulations to Chayce on his first #1 with his breakout song, "23." Listen here and find out when we will next have a chance to see Chayce Beckham performing live in the Boston area. Carolyn Kruse digs deeper with a game called "Beckham in 23" (23 seconds to get to learn more)! 

There was something different this time. There was such an sense of gratitude this time, on both ends. Kenny called. Listen to my conversation with Kenny Chesney on Born, Gillette Stadium and New England fans, here.

Since we started playing his music in 1995, starting with his first hit "Fall in Love,"  I've had the incredible opportunity to speak with Mr. Chesney on countless occasions. Trust me, I realize how lucky I am. But, this conversation with Kenny Chesney hit a little differently. This time, he just seemed overwhelmed with appreciation. He's built this unbelievable fan base in New England and genuinely values our passion for his music and shows. Kenny builds it, we come...and in very large numbers.

Jordan Davis calls in to talk about his new song and tour and also to tell the world (And Jonathan and Jim) what the gender of Ayla's second child is going to be

Rising star Ashley Cooke popped into our Country 1025 studios today for a chat with Carolyn Kruse. At the end of their discussion, "Kruser" remarked that Ashley had the gift of gab. She had never heard that expression. And so... here you can listen in to our Ashley Cooke Live in Studio Gabfest! 

Honestly, she is so smooth and articulate, it's hard to believe she is a newer artist. She officially has her first Top 20 hit, "Your Place," and has cemented her place in the world of country music. Not an easy feat for any artist. Ashley talks about the single and what it means to her. 

You can catch Cooke on tour with Jordan Davis and Mitchell Tenpenny this September at the Leader Bank Pavilion. She talks about touring with Jordan and her experiences on the road as one of the few women in a male dominated genre. 

Listen as Kruser and Ashley play "Cooking with Ashley" to learn more about this talented, entertaining and delightful person. 

Country Superstar Tim McGraw calls in to talk with Jonathan and Ayla about his new Standing Room Only tour coming to Boston, spear fishing, and what song he thinks he would do if he ever competed on American Idol

Dustin Lynch will be rolling into town May 2 to perform at the Leader Bank Pavilion, for the first time. He talked about his impressions of the venue, after searching it. 

He chats with Kruser about the Boston show, new music, questions people always ask him and more. Listen here as Lynch talks about the road, "Stars Like Confetti" and his brand new release with Jelly Roll, "Chevrolet."

They play a game called "Dustin Deets" so we can learn more about the artist who's now scored 9 #1 hits. 

Sam Hunt is a humble man. At least that's how he comes off in every conversation I've had with him. Today, was no different. The man behind 10 #1 hits was excited to talk about his kids; he's now in the 2 under 2 club. He's been releasing singles, as of late and no album for them, as the kids have kept him busy. But he did share that he'd like to focus on an album when the touring slows down. 

Listen as we talk about the tour, which has no Boston dates as of yet. We talk about the new song "Outskirts," the babies, the snow in Nashville and play a round of "Good Sam Hunting" - so we can get to know the platinum-selling artist better. Find out what he likes to hunt, what his favorite food is and more!

Mark your calendars for April 13, 2024. That's when multi-Grammy Award winning duo bring their 10 #1 hits into the TD Garden in Boston. It's a venue they love to play and as they explain here, Boston is a city they appreciate enormously. We show up, we stream and download. We are Dan + Shay people. And like Kenny Chesney, that's why the duo likes to end their tour here. 

Enjoy my chat with Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney, better known around the world as Dan + Shay. And stay until the end when one of them attempts a Boston accent. They are pumped to bring the songs on their new album, Bigger Houses to the Garden. And by the way, they said they'd love to catch a Celtics game. 

Chris Janson has got a lot going on. To start, he's on the verge of scoring another #1 hit with "All I Need Is You." Then there's the Dolly Parton, Brett Michaels topics he casually dropped on me in less than a minute between names. There's new music coming a CBS TV special appearance and a tour. 

Listen here at the "Good Vibes" guy discusses all that and much more. We have some fun playing Chris Janson Needs What? You may be surprised by a couple of answers. 

It so refreshing to talk to a star on the rise. There's an excitement and a hunger with new artists. Plus, they are  in the midst of a grind on their way up and therefore a feeling of release in their communication. At least, that's been my experience. 

Check out my conversation with "Mind On You" artist, George Birge, here. You'll hear what I'm talking about. He's the real deal; open, honest and electrified by the journey. He talks about the song, touring, where he came from and enjoying the moments. 

We play a game to get to know George Birge even better. I call it "On the Birge." Find out what other talents he has, some of his favorite spots in Boston, his favorite Christmas movie and so much more. 

There's a lot going on with Scotty McCreery, lately. All good things. He's hit some milestones, earned a bucket list accolade and has just released a song he's most proud of. 

Take a listen here as the season 10 American Idol winner dishes on "Cab in a Solo," his baby boy turning 1 year old, the Grand Ole Opry invitation and more! 

We get to know the New England sports-team loving artist better in a game called "You Time." He has a thought for the Patriots going into next season. Wait until you hear it. 

Country star Russell Dickerson is big on energy, talent a babies. He and his wife, Kailey just welcome their 2nd boy, Radford Arthur, on October 1st. Despite a lack of sleep, RD is still high octane. It's infectious, really. 

Listen here as Kruser chats with Russell Dickerson about the new baby, and how his big brother, Remington is handling it. They talk about his latest single, "God Gave Me a Girl," and how he was blown away at a recent Boston show that had everyone singing a long to it. 

Dickerson has a new album out November 3 that includes live tracks recorded in a "special place." Carolyn Kruse asks the "hard questions" in a game called Big D in 3. It's all here! 

First time Billboard Music Award nominee, for Best New Artist, Bailey Zimmerman has an energy that is infectious! He brings it from the stage to this interview.

Listen as Bailey chats with Kruser about playing Boston twice, and looking forward to coming back in March. He talks about his journey to get here and his parents love of music. 

Take a listen as Dustin Lynch shares his excitement to be bringing his new album out on the road. He's pumped to play the Leader Bank Pavilion for the first time (he even Googled it to check it out). 

Thursday, September 21 the reigning ACM and CMA Vocal Group of the Year will take over the TD Garden in what should be a phenomenal night. The harmony-tight tunesmiths have 7 #1 hit singles to their name, and have amassed numerous multi-platinum selling singles.

This isn't their first rodeo, but it is their first time headling the Garden. Old Dominion's Matthew Ramsey called Kruser before their big Boston show. They chatted about playing Boston, Kenny Chesney, jobs before music, the new album and much more.

Listen here at the award winning band leader shares his excitement and some inside scoop on life and the group. 

Country star Jameson Rodgers is really looking forward to coming to Boston with Old Dominion. The "Some Girls singer will be a part of the band's No Bad Vibes Tour. They come to the TD Garden on Thursday, September 21 along with Niko Moon and Kassi Ashton. He called to talk about it. You can listen here as Jameson Rodgers talks about playing the iconic venue, his new music, and plays a round of "Jameson and Then Some" so we can get to know him a little better. 

(Photo by Catherine Powell/Getty Images) 

Hear what country stars Justin Moore and Priscilla Block had to say about their hot new duet, "You, Me and Whiskey." They dish on how they came together, their favorite brands of whiskey, and getting close to having a #1 hit together. 

Red Sox Legend David Ortiz has a new cannabis line and he stopped by to try and convince Ayla to sample it

Old Dominion called in to talk about coming to Boston and playing the Garden in September, their go-to spot when they are in town and much more.  

It's amazing how taking a new road can bring perspective, adventure and excitement into your life. That's the vibe I got from talking to Brian Kelley. Kelley, or BK as he is know is the Florida half of one of country music's most successful acts in history. But he is out on his own and thrilled to chat about it. Let's talk Brian Kelley...The solo career, new song and Boston. 

All the new seems to never get old for Luke Combs. He keeps him going, driving, succeeding. Baby Tex is about to turn 1 year old and there's another baby on the way. 

Touring is ramping up with more shows being added across the country, including right here in New England. Luke called to talk about the 2nd show and it's supporting acts. 

Combs is also working on a new Nashville venue that he promises will be different than the rest. Listen to our conversation and hear us play the game "Combs or a Crock." 

Kip Moore released recently released an new album with 13 songs. Damn Love features some bangers, some sad songs, a duet with Ashley McBryde and is some of this artist's best work to date. 

Listen as we talk about the music, his 3 upcoming Massachusetts shows- on Cape Cod, in Cohasset and in Webster. Kip talks surfing, fishing and cooking. He also is just coming off a European tour and these are some of his first dates back in the states, and the first chance for fans to hear his new music live. 

It's been 12 years since 17 year old Scotty McCreery won American Idol. Today, he's a married man with a baby traveling the country with his heroes, Brooks and Dunn. 

Scotty called to talk about his life on the road with baby Avery, and his wife, Gabby. He is also on the verge of scoring his 6th consecutive #1 with the single, "It Matters To Her.

Also, listen as we play the game, It Matters to Scotty, to learn a little more about this talented artist. 

If you were watching the TV, The Voice, in 2018, you were likely watching a young singer from North Carolina slay! That singer has a album out, he's on tour now and coming to New England. Take a listen to my interviw with rising star Kameron Marlowe. 

From the first few notes of Kameron's blind auditon on The Voice, he inspired Kelly Clarkson to turn her chair, seconds later it was Blake Shelton with a chair turn. The young singer who was working at General Motors at the time was picked Team Blake. From then on, he cemented his place in the future of country music. 

Marlowe signed a record deal and released his debut album, We Were Cowboys, last year. He is working on a new project, as he shared in this interview and is really looking forward to heading our way this weekend. 

See Kameron Marlowe peforming live at Off The Rails in Worcester. By the way, Kameron has been practicing how to say the name of the city where he will perform Saturday night. And I'm happy to report, he nails it, as you can hear in our chat. 

Jordan Davis is on a roll. He's been cranking out the hits and the babies. Well, his wife gets most the credit for the babies. And it's a good thing the hits keep coming because, well., more mouths to feed. 

The CMA Award winning songwriter never expected to have a big singing career. He moved to Nashville to write songs. But, there was another plan for him. Davis talks about his niche in the country music world, his tour coming to Roadrunner and we play a game "Jordan's World." 

Riley Green has been collaborating lately. Currently he has a huge hit with Thomas Rhett, "Half of Me." He has a song out with Justin Moore, and now he has reworked his fan favorite "Different 'Round Here" collaborating with Luke Combs. He's currently on tour with Combs and coming our way July 22 to Gillette Stadium.

Hear our chat about the music, the tour, getting up early, football, and we play "Green Things" - a game to get to know the country star. 

Country superstar and award winning actor, Tim McGraw just dropped a new single that he describes as "just one of those great songs that comes along," noting it kind of completes a circle with "Live Like You Were Dying and "Humble and Kind." They all are strand out life-affirming powerful songs. 

Listen as Tim talks about "Standing Room" only, and what's to come. 

Getting to "Wild As Her" has been a wild ride for hot new artist, Corey Kent. From age 11, this talented singer/songwriter has been performing on stage with some of the biggest artists. The pandemic set him back and put him on the pavement, literally. 

Take a listen as Corey tells me about his journey to an opening slot on the Jason Aldean tour this summer and playing Boston for the very first time. We play the "What's Corey Wild About" game to get to know the artist who moved to Nashville on his own at age 17. 

With a love of gospel, blue grass and 90s country under his hat, rising country star Drew Parker is ready to take on Boston. He'll bring his true country vibe to the Brighton Music Hall on March 2. 

Drew called to talk about the show, the Grammy nomination, his friendship with Luke Combs and playing Boston for the first time. 

Fresh off a tour with Parker McCollum and Bailey Zimmerman that included an October 2022 Boston date at the MGM Music Hall at Fenway, Joseph Gallant is ready to rock a headline show. 

The Coastal Maine native has been making waves in Nashville and gaining fans and indusry attention with his original music, like his current," My Kinda Wild" and his soon to be released fan favorite, "TROUBLE." (Dropping March 3)

See Joseph performing in his first headling Boston show at the Sinclairon March 12. Tickets are available HERE. 

Here, we talk about the MGM Music Hall show, the new music, living in Nashville, and some of the coolest country stars he's worked with. 

Elle King is coming to Roadrunner in Boston on February 24 and she called to talk about the tour, the album, the baby and Boston. 

I always look forward to chatting with Chris Janson. He's a beacon of positivity and appreciates all he has, especially his wife, Kelly. Chris has written and recorded a new song about Kelly called, "All I Need Is You."

We talk about the new song, the new record label, and his new artist and friend, Shane Profitt. Plus, we play a game called, "All I Need Is..." Get to know Chris a little better and hear his new song. 

Details. We all wanted details. And Sam Hunt called to provide a few of those. We also get to catch up with Sam, the new dad, and find out what's ahead for the award winning, multi-platinum artist in 2023! 

Country star Joe Nichols is set to bring 20 years of music to Loretta's Last Call! Joe will play a special, intimate, power acoustic show December 15 at the famed venue on Landsdowne Street. 

Before Joe comes to Boston he called to talk about the show, his love for playing here, his kids, and even shares a touching Christmas story from his youth, that has greatly impacted his life. 

Nichols has a new song that is all about being grateful, called "Good Day for Living." He has much to be grateful for with a healthy family, an album he is proud of, and some well-deserved time off coming after he plays Loretta's. And we have this incredible show to be grateful for. 

See you there! 

It's all happening for Jackson Dean. The 22 year old from Odenton, Maryland released his first single early in the year and now he's scored his first top 5. 

Country superstar Kane Brown hit it out of the ballpark with the news he's coming to play Fenway Park, for the first time! "I never thought I'd get to play there...so excited," Kane said in an interview with Carolyn Kruse this morning. 
Hear all about the show, the lineup, the on sale date, the kids, his wife and more. It's all here in the interivew. 

Russell Dickerson is in elited company. He is the first artist to release four consecutive career-starting singles that all hit #1 on the Biillboard Country Airplay chart since Luke Combs. "Yours," "Blue Tacoma," "Every Little Thing," and "Love Me Like You Used To" all hit the top. 

Russell's latest, "She Likes It" pushes the genre envelope, embracing his soulful side and is featured on his just released album, Russell Dickerson. His 3rd studio album dropped today. Why a self-titled album, three in? Dickerson explains in our chat here, and we discuss a few of the stand out tracks.

Find out how RD's  utoddler son, Remington, is doing and how his summer on the road with Tim McGraw was. We play a game I call, "Russell Deets" and have a great conversation. You can hear it all here! 

With soon-to-be 2 year old Baylah in tow, a baby on the way, an album to complete and a concert tour with Jason Aldean wrapped up, country star Gabby Barrett may need a nap!

Kruser caught up with the busy mom, wife and superstar before her baby boy is due "in a couple of weeks." She is excited about all the good things to come next year, including new music. Her latest single, "Pick Me Up," is already in the top 10, nationally. 

Let's catch up with Gabby here:

Justin Moore has scored another big hit with his latest single, "With A Woman You Love." It's a song he wrote with his wife of 15 years, Kate, in mind. He told me he's the emotional one and Kate is the strong one, when it comes to their kids. 

We chatted about his new album, which is set to come out in the next couple of months. It still doesn't have a name, and he said he wasn't allowed talk about the 2 duets on it but he's excited to keep new music coming and it will feature "With A Woman You Love."

Take a listen as Justin talks about hearing his songs on the radio, his kids going back to school and he plays a game with me, I call "More Justin." You'll find out what he loves to do when he's in Boston, what other skills he has, and if he could only sing one of his songs, what it would be. 

Paul Reiser is coming to Boston for a stand up show, so he called in to talk to Jonathan and Danielle about Mad About You, Stranger Things, The Boys and all of the other shows and movies throughout his career

There is much to talk about with Dierks Bentley. He's got the tour, he just headlined our festival and there's a tv special he is hosting coming up next week! 

But the big news is... a brand new single! "Gold" is the new song out today. Dierks told me the song is a message to himself about "being present and grateful." It's also a nice counter balance for his songs about beer, as he put it. 

Take a listen here to all this and we play a round of The Dirt on Dierks! 

Dan + Shay are headed our way in a little over a month! They are on Kenny Chesney's Here and Now Tour, which always wraps up with 2 nights at Gillette Stadium. They are super excited and so are we. Btw, if you are going, be on the lookout for D+S in the crowd while Kenny is performing. They told me they wander around the stadium while Chesney is on stage. 

Today, the Grammy Award winning, multi-platinum duo release a new song from their album, Good Things. The song is called "You," and you can hear them talk about it here. Plus, I play a game with them called "What Do YOU Say, Dan and Shay." Find out what their D+S karaoke song would be, what they have splurged on, what they love most about Boston, and what their favorite Kenny Chesney song is. 

Country superstar Jake Owen is headed to Boston next week to play a show at the Leader Bank Pavilion (June23). He called in to talk about the show, summertime, his new song, his golf game, and played a game with Kruser called, "Best Things From Jake."

Take a listen here and get your tickets at livenation.com 

"Best Things Since Backroads" is racing up the chart. Check out his music video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOHMIWpyqfo

One of our favorite country stars is making his way back to one of his "favorite venues and places to play." Dierks Bentley is headling the 28th Country 1025 Country Music Festival this year. His high energy shows are legendary and we can't wait to welcome his back, along with his tourmates, Ashely McBryde and Travis Denning.

Listen here as Carolyn Kruse talks to him about the Festival, his love of hockey, manifesting dreams, and he plays a round of "What Was Dierks Thinkin'?"

Thomas Rhett, fresh from his American Idol finale appearance with Katy Perry, took time to call Carolyn Kruse today. He talked about about how nervous he was to sing with Katy on the finale. Rhett also shared some fun facts, like what his first concert was, ahead of his 2 shows coming up at the Bank of New Hampshire Pavilion June 17 and 18. Kruser asked him, "Why no Boston this year?" Find out what he had to say. 

Grammy Award winning country superstar Maren Morris is headed to the beautiful Leader Bank Pavilion July 8, and she called Carolyn Kruse to talk about the show.

Maren Morris made the call to Kruser to share her excitement at being back on the road. Only this time, it will be different. She will have toddler in tow. 2 year old son Hayes will be joining mommy Maren on the Humble Quest Tour, with opening act Brent Cobb. 

Hear Maren and Kruser's conversation and find out what she had to say about Boston fans, and being on the TV show, Beat Bobby Flay!

Glad You're Here is a brand new book, out today, and written by country star Walker Hayes and his best friend, Craig Cooper. If you haven't heard Walker's song "Craig," which was released on his 2017 album, Boom and re-worked and re-released on his current, Country Stuff the Album. 

The song was the basis for the book. Basically, how the two unlikely friends met, and their journey to a better life. When Walker met Craig he was an alcoholic and an atheist, with a music career that wasn't happening. Walker was also in need of a vehicle that had seat belts for all his kids. One day, Craig decided to gift the Hayes family his van. Craig's show of generosity and altruism helped to break down Walker's barriers with God and religion. And eventually the hits came. The two are more than neighbors and friends now. They are more like brothers and have co-written their story to share with the world. 

Carolyn Kruse chats with both Walker and Craig about their journey, relationship and the book. 

These are a few of my favorite things: Cole Swindell, Boston, Jodee Messina, and Cole's new album, Sterotype. 

We chatted about all of the above and so much more, when Cole called today. He is pumped for Boston to hear his new album, as he has always held a special love for us. Stereotype includes a song called, "She Had Me at Heads Carolina," a reference to Massachusetts' native Jo Dee Messina's breakout hit from 1996.

We play a round of "Let It Roll Cole," and find out how Cole likes to chill, what he is a fan of and what he thinks when he thinks of Boston. 

We wrapped up our conversation with a sneaky bomb drop. I beg him to please come to Boston (he had just played up in Hampton, NH but no Boston show). Cole's response: "I'll be there as soon as I can. I promise you. We're already looking at somthing possibly being around there in the next few months. I'm ready to play a few of these songs for y'all live." 

Country Superstar Tim McGraw calls Jonathan and Ayla to talk about his current single 7500 OBO, as well as his plans for touring this summer and his starring role in the hit TV show 1883

Awards, music, Johnny and June, Kenny Chesney, Boston...Carly Pearce covers it all in her chat with Kruser.

Where does she like to run when in Boston? What might people not know about her? 

How did her hit collab with with Ashley McBryde come to be? 

Find out here! 

Check one off the bucketlist. 

Zac Brown and his band have become icons in the music business. From platinum selling albums, millions download, legendary stage shows, Grammy Awards and more, the leader of the band has much to celebrate. But it took a pandemic for him to truly appreciate all that, and really tap into his creativity. 

Brown is in a good place in life and you can hear it. This summer he will be in a really good place, his favorite place to play, as he mentions more than once here... Fenway Park! Zac and his team have put together a set-up he said he's literally been dreaming of for years, for this show. 

Dustin Lynch called into to talk to Jonathan and Ayla about his new album and single, both dropping today, as well as why he chose Mackenzie Porter over Lauren Alaina for his hit song Thinking About You

You can just tell, in one short conversation, that Priscilla Block is a woman who eventually gets what she wants. She works hard to get it and doesn't let haters and nay-sayers stand in her way.

Here she is, 8 years after she moved to Nashville, and she is country music's "it girl." It's her energy, just the right amount of sass, plenty of talent, and a huge serving of realness that make her one of the most talked about and sought after new artists in country music. 

Her debut album, Welcome to the Block Party comes out tomorrow and she is launching it with a new single, "My Bar, a follow-up to her top 10 debut "Just About Over You."

We play a round of "Block Party Essentials," and chat about how Priscilla got discovered during the early days of the pandemic, when the world shut down. 

Today is a big day in the Walker Hayes house. Well, he's got a big family. They do things big. 

It's album release day for Walker. His latest collection is called Country Stuff, and there was a lot of hard work and stuff put into this. Take a listen as Hayes describes the journey to get here his appreciation of Applebees and plays a game with me called, "Fancy Like What?" 

Russell Dickerson is bringing the RD Party to Boston and he called in to tell Jonathan and Ayla all about what touring is like these days.

Russell is in charge of cooking all the meat. Charles is tending bar. The two longtime friends sat down about 3 years ago to write the song "Home Sweet" (a current hit for Russell), back when they were on tour together, also with Darius Rucker. 

Now Russell has re-released the song with Lady A's powerful backing vocals, giving it new life. 

But wait, you know Russell is coming to do a show here in Boston in January... wait until you hear what Charles suggested. Is this breaking news? 

Listen to find out!

If you've heard the new collaboration between Cole Swindell and Lainey Wilson, then you've heard their passionate, jump-out-of-your-speakers, hang-on-for-the-hook performance. 

"Never Say Never" brings together 2 of Nashville's hottest artists right now. It's the collab we've been waiting for! Their voices just work so well together. Before this duet, the 2 artists barely knew each other. They are having fun getting to know each other now, and excited to be shooting their video after the Thanksgiving holiday.

Who reached out to who for this alliance? What's something Cole and Lainey would never say never to? 

Find out here! 

It will certainly be a Good Time for us, and for Niko Moon when he plays his first headlining gig in Boston! 

Carolyn Kruse chatted today with the singer/songwriter from Georgia, who took his first release to #1 earlier this year with "Good Time." Niko established himself as a hit songwriter in Nashville before striking out on his own. He co-wrote 7 hit songs with Zac Brown Band,  “Loving You Easy,” “Homegrown,” “Beautiful Drug,” “Keep Me In Mind,” “Castaway, "Someone I Used To Know," and " My Old Man," Plus Moon penned Dierks Bentley's "Gone," and Rascal Flatts' "Back to Life." 

He just released a vibey new single, "Paradise to Me," and will bring it and all his other hits to the Paradise Rock Club December 18. It's an all ages show and you can find tickets HERE. 

Following up on his #1 hit, "Pretty Heart," Parker McCollum has released "To Be Loved By You."  The song came out of a remark about his now-fiancée, Hallie Ray Light, and found it's way onto his tour bus, where he wrote about it. Eventually it ended in a songwriting session with Rhett Akins.

I talked to Parker about about the song, the video, his tour with Dierks Bentley, that sadly had to be cancelled at the Xfinity Center due to Covid-19 within the band. Parker is a big Houston Astros fan, so was recently at Fenway for a game. Btw, this Texas boy is a big fan of Boston, for real! 

Of course, there's a game. Get to know Parker better by listening to his answers on a game I call, "Parker the Remarker." 

He's been a New England favorite for years. No, he's not from here, but his piano is. Country music's piano man told me he actually keeps some keys stored here for when he's in town to perform. Over the years, New Englanders have fallen in love, and taken him in as one of our own. 

Get the keys out of storage, because Phil Vassar is coming back for what is sure to be another legendary performance. Known for his high octane live performances, and catchy melodies with memorable lyrics, Phil's shows are not to be missed.

Vassar has written plenty of hits for other country stars like Massachusetts' own Jo Dee Messina ("Bye Bye" and "I'm Alright). He penned "My Next Thirty Years" and "For A Little While" for Tim McGraw, "Little Red Rodeo" for Collin Raye, "Right On The Money" for Alan Jackson, and more. 

Come see Phil Vassar perform all his hits, like "Just Another Day in Paradise," "Carlene," "In A Real Love," "I'll Take That As A Yes (Hot Tub Song," "That's When I Love You," "Six Pack Summer," "American Child," "Love is a Beautiful Thing" and many more this Friday at the Topsfield Fair!  

Admission to the show is free with your Fair ticket! 

SEE: Phil Vassar Friday, Oct 8th 7:00pm — 9:00pm

https://www.topsfieldfair.org/event/phil-vassar/

It's been 10 years since first met Scotty McCreery. He's about to turn 28, he's married now and just released his 5th studio album. 

The album, Same Truck came out last week, featuring his soon to be #1 "You Time." Scotty talks about the album, the single, and the single-to-b "Damn Strait" (A nod to George Strait.).

The New England Patriot fan (one of the few in country music) plays a round of a Kruser game, "Scotty McSpeedy." Find out what his favorite meal is, who are his all-time favorite Patriots players, and what he loves about Boston. 

Just days before his arrival, and his first show back in Boston since 2019, Dierks Bentley called Carolyn Kruse to talk about his love of playing here, for us fans, who he says are "extra crazy for some reason." We'll take that as a compliment, thanks Dierks! 

Hear Dierks Bentley talk about his tour mates, what they do offstage before a show, new music, his upcoming advisor gig on The Voice, and his recent CMA Award nominations. Dierks is a good sport, and even plays a round of a Kruser game called, "Lost In Boston," to test his knowledge of our fair city. 

DIerks Bentley brings his Beers On Me Tour to the Xfinity Center in Mansfield on Saturday September 25, and brings with him Riley Green and Parker McCollum...and lots of beer. 

Riley Green called Kruser to chat about the tour, the boys, the beers and plays a game called, "Going Green," so we can get to know him better. 

Anticipating a call from Chris Janson is a little like waiting to go to church. You know he will be preaching positivity, spreading his good vibes, and you know he will be humbled, and thankful. 

All good things. Only this time, we have new music to talk about. Plus, Chris talks about what it's been like getting back on the road and on stage with his legendary live performances, after many months. 

We chat about this, and of course there's always time for a game. Hear "Chris or Miss. here." Where else? 

Ahead of her show this Friday at the House of Blues in Boston, Ashley McBryde called in.

She's excited to return to Boston for the first time since the pandemic, and excited to share the stage with her opening act, Priscilla Black.

Find out what record she recently broke with her album, Never Will, and hear Ashley play a game Kruser titled "Ashley McLied." 

Good things are happening for country music's top duo Dan + Shay! 

Their 4th studio album, Good Things, was released on Friday, along with a hot new single, "Steal My Love." FYI: the album has already been certified Gold for sales of over 500,000!

Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney will bring their tour to a place they have long dreamed of playing, the TD Garden on December 7.

Carolyn Kruse talked to the guys today about all the good things and played a round of "What Would Dan + Shay Say," to get to know them better. 

Lady A is coming to Boston, playing the Leader Bank Pavilion for the first time, this Sunday, and member Dave Haywood is pumped!

Dave told Carolyn Kruse how much they have been looking forward to this show, in particular, touting that "Boston has the best country music fans." 

Kruser put Dave to the test with the "Lady A Game" and his brought his A game!

Find out who is the best dancer in the group, another name they considered early in their career and what he loves about Boston. 

For tickets, click HERE. 

Kruser talks with TJ Osborne before the Brothers Osborne show at Leader Bank Pavilion. 

Gabby Barrett is on a roll, experiencing all the joys available! The new mom is revealing in the everyday wonders of her newborn, Bayla May. She is onto her third hit single, and picking up plenty of awards, accolades, and country music friends along the way!

Listen as Gabby tells Carolyn Kruse all about her daughter, her busy summer, and which country star has been the most supportive.

Garth Brooks calls in to talk with Jonathan and Ayla about his stadium tour, his new single "That's What Cowboys Do" and how excited he is to play Gillette Stadium for the first time.

It feels so good to say, "we'll see you soon, in concert." That is a sentence I will never take for granted, again.

I got to say exactly that to Michael Ray today, as he is headed to the Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom on July 25. 

We chat about the show, the new music, summers as a kid, Wrigley the dog and more. Take a listen here and check out the new videos from Michael Ray.

When we last saw Michael Ray he was on stage performing live along side Gabby Barrett, Kelsea Ballerini, Kane Brown, Russell Dickerson and Chris Lane for our Country 1025 Acoustic Live show in Boston. That was over a year ago, so there was much to catch up on when I got to talk to Michael today. 

During the pandemic Ray created the YouTube series, Honky Tonk Tuesdays, where he invites some of his musical heroes to perform and talk about their music and their lives. 

Michael has been busy making music in the studio too. He wanted to get back to his roots and released the vintage vibey, "Whiskey and Rain." 

We talk about all this, and play a round of "The Ray Way." 

The snow outside today couldn't chill our warm hearts. There has been a snowball effect when it comes to concert announcements over the past week, and that's been just what we needed melt some of the frustrations of the past year. 

The first big show in Boston announced last week was Kane Brown coming to the TD Garden January 14, 2022 with Chase Rice and Restless Road.

Carolyn Kruse caught up with Chase at his home in Nashville today to talk about the tour, his pet bison, his current single, "Drinkin' Beer, Talkin' God. Amen," and play a round of the Chase Race- so we can get to know him better

Take a listen and check out the fun video Chase did with his collaborators, longtime friends and former roomies, Florida Georgia Line

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wpS2oX9ASLc

Brain Tegue from the Greater Boston Food Bank shared with us a little about his job and the Spring For Meals Fundraiser. After a continued increase in demand due to the COVID 19 crisis, the Greater Boston Food Bank is looking to reach its goal of distributing more than 24 million pounds of fresh healthy produce. Find out how you can help and find more info HERE. 

This weeks Backstage Country host, Carly Pearce, called in to chat with Carolyn Kruse today after hosting the show, her upcoming ACM Awards, performance and dress, and how her duet with Lee Brice was meant to be!

Find out what's in the works for the "Next Girl" singer, next! 

Lady A's Hillary, Dave and Charles checked in today!

It was so great to talk to the Grammy Award winning trio, following the success of their multi-week platinum "Champagne Night," and their Grand Ole Opry invitation! 

They are super excited about their hot new single, "Like A Lady," and told me they can't wait to play it for us in Boston, which Dave said was "honestly one of our favorite shows." He also leaked that "we're making some plans, and if we get the green light for this fall, we're gonna do it!" 

Find out what they have been enjoying at home during this past year, and who's got the best dance moves! 

Has it really been 7 years since Parmalee hit #1 with their infectious single "Carolina?" 

According to bandmates and best friends, Matt Thomas and Josh McSwain it has been too long! And their excited about what's next; releasing some new songs!

How did the collaboration with Blanco Brown come to be? Find out here and listen as we play a round of "Par for the Course," a fun game that plays on their name. 

When Lainey's on the line, there's never a dull moment. The "bell-bottom country" rising star has plenty to say, and an interesting life to talk about. 

From being on the soundtrack to hit TV show Yellowstone to her Hannah Montana days, and her debut album release, there's much to say and much to hear! 

Plus we all get to know Lainey a little better after a round of Kruser's game, the Lainey Gamey. 

On the verge of his 10th #1 hit country single, this rock star takes nothing for granted. 

Darius Rucker remains humble and excited for what he says, "never gets old." The Grammy Award winning has been busy working on a new project. He is happy to share a few details with Kruser, and play a game called "What's The Ruckus, Darius?" 

Take a listen here! 

The pandemic has helped Kelsea Ballerini to score her first #1 since 2017's "Legends."  "Hole in the Bottle" has been just what the world needed in our new normal. It's light, fun, not too oaky and actually quite traditional sounding, which feels like comfort food. 

Her latest single was the result of a writing and drinking session with some of her favorite writers. She talks about how it started as a joke. 

Kelsea also reveals what she and husband Morgan have been up to (think major purchase), and what she's been cooking!

Kruser's gets the all the scoop with a round of "Catching Up with Kelsea."  

So, grab a glass, kick back and take a listen...

We may not have live country concerts right now, but what we do have is country artists with a little more time on their hands. Lucky for all of us, one particular superstar had time to call the Country 1025 studio today and chat with Carolyn Kruse!

Take a listen to Tim as he talks about missing the road, and Boston. Where his kids are, and what his mama thinks about his latest hit, "I Called Mama."

Lindsay Ell calls in to Jonathan and Ayla to talk about her new album and how her recent revelations about past sexual assault have influenced her current sound.

Chris Lucas and Preston Brust, aka: LOCASH are getting closer to scoring another #1 hit with "One Big Country Song!." 

The dynamic duo got together for the first time during the pandemic, just days ago. They decided to get together again today and call us!

The boys became a country music favorite after releasing "I Love This Life" back in 2015. The song has been used for years as Red Sox outfielder Andrew Benintendi's walk up song, and recently the three have become friends. 

In 2016 LOCASH scored their first #1 with "I Know Somebody."

The duo catches up with Kruser to talk about "One Big Country Song," Benintendi, The Patriots, how it's been being at home all this time with their young children, and they play a rousing round of Kruser's "Bean To Boston" game! 

Brett Eldridge joins Jonathan and Ayla to talk about his new album coming out and the rumors that he might be interested in being on "The Bachelor"

Cole Swindell has a new single and album dropping. He calls in to talk with Jonathan and Ayla about how excited he is to have new music coming, what he's been up to for the past few months, and how to know if song is really a "hit" when writing

Gabby Barrett is dropping her new album today and called in to talk about what she's been up to since Quarantine, her new single, and growing up singing in her church

All four members of Gone West call in to talk about their new album and how they got started as a band

As their current duet "I Hope You're Happy Now" approaches #1, Carly Pearce and Lee Brice call in together to catch up with Jonathan & Ayla about how the song came about and what they've been up to.

Travis Denning chats with Jonathan and Ayla about his early career in Nashville as well as his current single "After a Few" and his new album out now

Thomas Rhett called in to talk about what he's been up to since he's been off the road this past month, as well as how he collaborated on both "Beer Can't Fix" and "Be A Light"

Kane Brown calls in to discuss his new single Cool Again, his favorite video games, and what life is like while he can't tour

Brett Eldredge checked in with Jonathan Wier and Ayla Brown to talk about his new single, life in quarantine, his appearance on Stephen Colbert's show and an old memory he shared with Ayla