Read Jenn's thoughts on the new country music singles that are released for the week of November 17, 2008.
George Strait - "River Of Love"
MCA Nashville
George Strait has always been consistent in his music, but there's something about "River Of Love" that is so refreshing coming from him. He recently performed the song on the 2008 CMA Awards show. It's nice that after all these years in the business he can still release a single that makes you feel good from the first time you listen.
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Download/Purchase
Carrie Underwood - "Do You Hear What I Hear"
Sony BMG
This is a beautiful Christmas song and Carrie Underwood really does a great job with it. Being able to start with a softer sound and building it as the song progresses is a nice touch, as is ending it right back on a tender note. Makes the listener feel like the song came around full circle. This song can be found on the Hear Something Country Christmas 2007 album.
Emerson Drive - "Belongs To You"
Though the song is another one of those sappy love ballads, I would like to make a special note about Emerson Drive's lead singer Brad Mates' voice. With these kinds of songs, there's a tendency to become overly dramatic in the vocals; Brad just sings the lyrics and lets it flow naturally. Not too many singers can get away with that, but thankfully Brad has that ability. ListenMartina McBride - "Ride"
Always one to sing songs with messages to them, Martina McBride is back with the new single, "Ride." She recently performed this song on the 2008 CMA Awards show. With this type of song along with Martina's powerful vocal abilities, it would be very easy to go all-out with the lyrics and end up overpowering the production but she does a fine job balancing things. ListenRichie Fields - "Devil In The Mirror"
Joint Journey Records
This is just the sound I like in a song with its edge and a rich voice easily commanding attention. Another thing about Richie's voice is that it sounds easy and familiar, yet unique enough to stand out in a crowd if given a chance. You don't find that very often. Listen
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Download/Purchase
Whitney Duncan - "All I Want For Christmas Is You"
Warner Brothers
This is a nice change of pace from the traditional Christmas tunes. It's fun and nothing less than what I would expect from Whitney Duncan. It must be a difficult task releasing a song that Mariah Carey made famous, but tackling it was a great idea for this artist.
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Download/Purchase
