Today’s Country
This playlist tracks what’s happening from the heart of the country scene to its outer edges. Find fan favorites you already love next to breakout stars and emerging voices. Topping the list this week is Hailey Whitters with “High on a Heartbreak,” a new song previewing the singer-songwriter’s just-announced forthcoming album <i>Corn Queen</i>, due June 6. “High on a Heartbreak” takes cues from <i>Golden Hour</i>-era Kacey Musgraves, pairing a loose and airy melody with ’90s-tinged production (complete with a “Neon Moon” reference) and lyrically illustrating the kind of all-consuming heartbreak that can begin to feel indulgent. There’s an ace list of players on the track, too, including bluegrass luminary Stuart Duncan on fiddle and fellow celebrated picker Bryan Sutton on acoustic guitar. Whitters’ husband and longtime collaborator Jake Gear produced “High on a Heartbreak” and the rest of the songs on <i>Corn Queen</i>, which follows 2022’s <i>Raised</i>. “High on a Heartbreak” follows previously released <i>Corn Queen</i> tracks “Prodigal Daughter,” which features Molly Tuttle, and “Casseroles.” Check back here early and often for updates, and if you hear something you like, add it to your library.