This New Music Friday delivers one of the most exciting release slates of the year. Global superstars are making bold statements, beloved artists are revealing their most personal work yet, and fresh voices are stepping into the spotlight with projects that demand attention.

From Cardi B’s long-awaited sophomore album to Miley Cyrus’ emotional ballad for her father, and a wave of groundbreaking country and pop releases, today’s drops capture the full spectrum of music in 2025.

Am I the Drama? — Cardi B

Cardi B returns in explosive fashion with her long-awaited sophomore album Am I the Drama?, arriving seven years after her groundbreaking debut. The 23-track set is packed with collaborations from icons like Janet Jackson, Lizzo, Selena Gomez, Megan Thee Stallion, and more, making it as star-studded as it is unapologetic. True to its title, the record plays into the whirlwind of scrutiny and spectacle that has followed her career, channeling it into raw power and razor-sharp wit. It’s a defiant, theatrical reminder of why Cardi remains one of pop culture’s most magnetic figures.

“Secrets” — Miley Cyrus

Miley Cyrus bares her soul on “Secrets”, a ballad written for and dedicated to her father, Billy Ray Cyrus. After years of rumored estrangement, Miley’s lyrics open the door to forgiveness and healing, accompanied by the legendary touch of Fleetwood Mac’s Lindsey Buckingham and Mick Fleetwood. The song’s stripped-back intimacy showcases Miley at her most vulnerable, weaving themes of love, freedom, and reconciliation into every line. It’s a powerful reminder of her ability to balance personal storytelling with universal resonance.

ELDORA — Chase Rice

With ELDORA, Chase Rice digs deep into the rugged authenticity of the American West. This album marks a new creative direction, prioritizing raw honesty and storytelling over formula, and it shows Rice at his most unfiltered yet. Fifteen years into his career, Rice proves he still has mountains left to climb, exploring the wilderness of sound and subject matter with renewed purpose. It’s a bold, windswept chapter in the journey of an artist who refuses to stay still.

Later Tonight — Josh Ross

Rising country star Josh Ross drops his debut full-length album Later Tonight, a 15-track collection produced by longtime collaborator Matt Geroux. The project builds on the rock-infused country style that has made Ross a breakout name, balancing arena-ready hooks with emotional depth. Standouts include the Akon collaboration “Drunk Right Now (Na Na Na)” and Ross’s chart-topping hit “Single Again.” With its scale and polish, Later Tonight feels like the start of Ross’s next big chapter.

New Kind of Emotion — Runaway June

Runaway June unleashes their sophomore album, New Kind of Emotion, a 13-track record showcasing the trio’s evolution and creative chemistry. Members Jennifer Wayne, Natalie Stovall, and Stevie Woodward co-wrote 11 songs, giving the album a deeply personal core. They enlisted a powerhouse production team — Kristian Bush, Ron Fair, Mickey Jack Cones, Stone Aielli, and Austin Moody — to bring their adventurous sound to life. It’s a dynamic blend of roots, harmony, and edge that affirms their place as country innovators.

Lost Ones — Chase McDaniel

Chase McDaniel’s debut album Lost Ones arrives with remarkable timing during National Suicide Prevention Month. The record bravely unpacks his struggles with depression and suicidal ideation, while also celebrating resilience and the journey toward healing. McDaniel’s raw lyricism is paired with electrifying instrumentation, making the songs feel both deeply personal and universally urgent. It’s a debut that not only entertains but also seeks to comfort and inspire those who need it most.

“Dog Years” — HARDY

HARDY finally releases “Dog Years," a song fans have clamored for ever since he performed it at Miranda Lambert’s MuttNation charity event. Written over a decade ago before his publishing deal, the track feels both timeless and fresh, a snapshot of his journey as a songwriter. Its release is a testament to HARDY’s instinct for connecting with fans on a visceral level. By blending grit with heartfelt reflection, “Dog Years” delivers the kind of authenticity only HARDY can pull off.

“Every Piece” — Hunter Hayes

Hunter Hayes shares “Every Piece,” a heartfelt anthem about being truly seen and loved. Written with Sam Ellis and John Mark Nelson, the single explores the rare and powerful feeling of being embraced in full by someone special. Hayes delivers it with soaring vocals and sincerity, making the track one of his most moving in years. Paired with a touching music video, it marks a poignant new entry in his catalog.

“Move On” — Shaboozey, Kevin Powers

Shaboozey teams up with Kevin Powers for “Move On,” the first single under his new American Dogwood imprint with EMPIRE. The track, dubbed “Southern Pop,” blends breakup anthem energy with a genre-crossing sound that perfectly introduces Powers as the label’s first signee. The accompanying video — featuring the duo in a beat-up RV — underscores its restless, transitional spirit. It’s another reminder of Shaboozey’s knack for pushing boundaries while keeping things undeniably catchy.

Everything I Wanted — Evan Honer

Evan Honer unveils Everything I Wanted, his third studio album recorded in a Nashville-area garage studio he built himself. The 13-track LP blends gritty DIY spirit with widescreen polish, featuring strings, horns, pedal steel, and contributions from his Cloverdale Records circle. Pulling from indie and alt-pop influences, Honer pushes beyond his Americana roots into more eclectic territory. It’s an ambitious effort that confirms his place among indie’s most exciting young voices.

“Life Ain’t Always Beautiful” — Cyndi Thomson

Cyndi Thomson reclaims “Life Ain’t Always Beautiful,” the song she co-wrote two decades ago that became a hit for Gary Allan. This new recording offers her own perspective as both the original writer and a woman who has lived through the ups and downs the lyrics capture. With honesty and grace, Thomson breathes new life into the ballad, reminding listeners of its timeless resonance. It’s a moving return from an artist reconnecting with her roots.

Starting Over (EP) — Thelma & James

Thelma & James — MacKenzie Porter and Jake Etheridge — release their debut EP Starting Over, a heartfelt eight-song project. The EP introduces their unique blend of married-life harmonies, country-pop melodies, and cinematic storytelling. The standout track “Parking Lot Prayers” arrives with a powerful video, showcasing the duo’s chemistry and vision. It’s a striking first step from a partnership with serious staying power.

“John, Dear” — Baylee Lynn

Seventeen-year-old Baylee Lynn makes a strong impression with her new single “John, Dear.” The track balances sensitivity with playful sass, showcasing the rising artist’s ability to bring fresh perspective to country storytelling. With only two songs released so far, Lynn is already proving herself one to watch. “John, Dear” is an exciting taste of her potential.

“Train” — Dasha

RIAA multi-Platinum artist Dasha returns with “Train,” a reflective song about the meaning of home. The track offers a sweetly wistful preview of her upcoming Anna EP, set for release on October 10. Arriving just as she launches her Canadian headline tour, “Train” underscores her knack for combining heartfelt lyrics with irresistible hooks. It’s a reminder of why Dasha is quickly becoming one of country-pop’s most magnetic voices.

“Coincidence” — Maddox Batson

At only 15, Maddox Batson drops “Coincidence,” a sentimental track about young love’s inevitability. Written with Nashville heavyweights Beau Bailey, Casey Brown, and Travis Wood, the song balances vulnerability with charm. Batson’s fresh perspective makes it a standout, especially as he continues his rise following his I Need A Truck Tour. With its upbeat energy and earnest storytelling, “Coincidence” showcases just how bright his future is.

“When She Calls Me Cowboy (Western Version)” — Spencer Hatcher

Spencer Hatcher strips his fan-favorite down to its emotional core with the Western Version of “When She Calls Me Cowboy.” Gone are the honky-tonk flourishes of the original; in their place is an intimate, acoustic take. By highlighting the song’s lyricism and heart, Hatcher creates a version that feels both lonely and deeply resonant. It’s a refreshing reminder of how simplicity can amplify meaning.

“Gypsy” — Ash Ruder

Riser House’s newest signing Ash Ruder reimagines Fleetwood Mac’s classic “Gypsy” with haunting intimacy. Her version captures the bittersweet tug-of-war between past and present, transforming Stevie Nicks’ anthem into a poignant reflection on coming of age. Alongside the single, Ruder announces her debut EP Miss California, due October 25, which promises to expand on these themes of identity and growth. With her soulful delivery and modern edge, Ash Ruder makes “Gypsy” feel both timeless and brand new.

Photo Credit: Jora Frantzis