Courtlin’s 10 Favorite New Country Songs of 2026 (So Far)

So far, 2026 has been a strong year for country music! Especially for the ladies…

I’ve put together a list of ten of my favorite country songs to be released this year. But, before we get to it, you should know that I purposely chose songs that aren’t currently getting radio airplay. Although, I do hope that some of them get chosen as radio singles! You’ll also notice that most of my list contains songs from women. That was actually a happy accident. The ladies of country music are absolutely KILLING IT right now!

Ok, here we go! These are 10 of my absolute favorite country songs to be released in the first half of 2026 (in no particular order):

1. “Loneliest Girl” – Kacey Musgraves

To be honest, I could put Kacey’s entire new album Middle of Nowhere on this list. But, if I had to choose just ONE song, it would probably be this one. As an eternally single person, it’s so nice to hear a song about being alone that ISN’T negative. It’s already one of my most-listened to songs of 2026.

2. “You Can Have Him” – Carly Pearce

I don’t understand why Carly Pearce doesn’t get more hype. I mean, seriously. She’s insanely talented, her voice is incredible, and she puts out bops like this? What more could you want?! She will forever be one of my favorite ladies in country music.

3. “Bottom Of Your Boots” – Ella Langley

Ella is another artist whose entire new album could be on this list, but, once again, I’m narrowing it down to just one song. “Bottom Of Your Boots” got a lot of attention right after Dandelion was released in April, so I’m really hoping she will make it her next radio single!

4. “Rethink Some Things” – Luke Combs

Out of all the new songs on Luke Combs’ latest album, this one is easily my favorite. It actually might be one of my favorite songs from him EVER. I don’t know what it is, but I just can’t get enough of it!

5. “Medicine” – Megan Moroney

The word I would use to describe Megan’s latest album Cloud 9 is… FUN. Sure, there are a few slow, serious songs on there, but I’ve been spending my time jamming to the more upbeat tracks, like this one. I can’t wait to hear it live at the Great Jones County Fair this summer!

6. “Time Goes On” – Koe Wetzel

The more I listen to Koe Wetzel, the more I love him! I’ve been hooked on “Rocky Mountain Low” since he and Corey Kent released it, but this song definitely deserves some love, too. I can’t wait to hear his entire new album on June 12th!

7. “B*****s” – Kassi Ashton

Within the first 15 seconds of hearing this song, I knew I would become obsessed with it. I also come from a long line of strong women, so I made some of those women listen to this song. Guess what? They loved it, too! Kassi Ashton is SO underrated. I couldn’t love her more!

8. “high school sweetheart” – Ashley Cooke

Ever since she released her album ace last year, I’ve been hooked on Ashley Cooke. Her voice is beautiful, she’s beautiful, and her songs are so relatable! This is the latest release from her upcoming album, which is due out in August.

9. “Empty Words” – Corey Kent

I don’t know what it is about this song that gets me, but it gives me goosebumps every time. This song alone has made me a fan of his!

10. “Blood Runs Thicker” – Anna Avery

Out of all the songs on the list, this one is my newest obsession. I had never heard this song until she performed at the ACMs last week, and now I can’t get enough! I love the combination of rock and country.

What new songs are you absolutely LOVING right now? Let me know in the comments or by sending me a message on our station app!

Vinyl Record Stores in Eastern Iowa

Wondering where you can get new and used records here in Eastern Iowa? There are plenty of options! Here are some of the record stores and other shops with vinyl here in our half of the state:

Gallery Credit: Courtlin