The arrival of a new New Music Friday always feels like a reset button for music lovers – a chance to discover new obsessions, revisit familiar voices, and soundtrack every emotion from the weekend drive to the midnight unwind. This week’s lineup delivers just that: a striking mix of pop divas reclaiming their crowns, Nashville storytellers baring their souls, and emerging artists proving they’re ready to stand shoulder to shoulder with the greats.

We’ve got passion projects years in the making, surprise collaborations that feel destined, and albums that mark defining moments in artists’ careers. From Demi Lovato’s daring pop renaissance to Priscilla Block’s most vulnerable record yet, Lauren Watkins’ quietly brilliant full-length debut, and a wave of releases spanning genres and continents – there’s a story behind every beat.

Whether you’re drawn to country anthems that hit straight to the heart, pop hooks built for the dance floor, or slow-burning songs that make you feel seen, this week’s new releases remind us why we love Fridays in the first place. Turn it up and dive in.

“Kiss” — Demi Lovato 

The pop icon reclaims her throne with “Kiss,” the latest taste of her upcoming album Deep. Flirty, fearless, and full of electric energy, the track feels like a love letter to classic pop decadence — complete with shimmering production from Zhone and tongue-in-cheek lyricism that’s impossible to resist. After previewing the song at exclusive listening parties across LA and Paris, Demi officially delivers the bold, dance-floor moment fans have been craving.

Things You Didn’t See — Priscilla Block

Priscilla Block bares it all on her sophomore album, Things You Didn’t See. Produced by David Garcia, the 14-track collection dives deep into heartbreak, healing, and the quiet triumph of self-acceptance. Block’s trademark honesty shines through every lyric — pairing powerhouse vocals with the kind of lived-in storytelling that has made her one of Nashville’s most relatable voices. It’s a vulnerable, radiant step forward from a star who wears her truth proudly.

In A Perfect World — Lauren Watkins

With In A Perfect World, Lauren Watkins crafts a stunning evolution of her artistry — one that blends cinematic country storytelling with a poetic, confessional touch. The Big Loud Records/Songs & Daughters release feels like flipping through a diary written in melody, rich with nuance and warmth. Watkins’ gentle tone and sharp emotional instincts make every track feel like a private conversation between artist and listener.

“High” — Grace VanderWaal

Grace VanderWaal returns with “High,” a delicate, dreamy ballad that captures the magic of moments that refuse to fade. Written during an impromptu studio session, the song showcases her gift for transforming fleeting emotions into timeless reflection. Minimalist and hauntingly beautiful, it’s a reminder of VanderWaal’s unique ability to make the ordinary feel extraordinary.

“Cowboy Killer” — Tyra Madison

Tyra Madison turns up the heat with “Cowboy Killer,” a clever, high-voltage anthem that redefines the modern country firebrand. With razor-sharp wordplay and powerhouse vocals, Madison flips the “Marlboro” nickname into a tongue-in-cheek metaphor for irresistible chaos. It’s bold, catchy, and undeniably hers — a radio-ready showcase of one of country’s most magnetic new voices.

“Beer Back Home” — Morgan Evans

“Beer Back Home” finds Morgan Evans reconnecting with his roots while celebrating the next phase of his journey. Co-produced with Todd Clark, the song is a breezy, feel-good anthem about nostalgia, friendship, and rediscovery. After a reflective stretch spent in his Australian hometown, Evans channels that sense of renewal into one of his most authentic and uplifting releases yet — and it’s the perfect preview of his 2026 album Steel Town.

Anna (EP) — Dasha

Dasha’s Anna EP is an unapologetic ride through heartbreak, self-discovery, and empowerment – all wrapped in country-pop swagger. Across eight tracks, she blends raw emotion with radio polish, from the stripped-down “Train” to the confident “Work on Me.” Bursting with personality and edge, Anna proves Dasha isn’t afraid to take risks or have a little fun while doing it.

Learning To Love — Jake & Shelby

The duo Jake & Shelby unveil their debut album Learning To Love, a dreamy and dynamic record that captures love in all its forms — euphoric, uncertain, and heartbreakingly human. With lush harmonies, rich production, and a heartfelt centerpiece in “Falling Out of Love,” the album feels like a cinematic soundtrack for anyone still figuring out what it means to love themselves and someone else.

Secondhand Smoke — Atlus

Viral sensation Atlus turns introspection into impact with Secondhand Smoke, his debut EP under BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville. Across six emotional tracks, he leans into vulnerability, exploring resilience, pain, and hope through a raspy, soul-charged lens. It’s a striking next chapter for the platinum hitmaker — one that proves he’s as powerful a storyteller as he is a vocalist.

“You Thought” — KIANA

Rising country-pop artist KIANA brings attitude and empowerment front and center with “You Thought.” The song is a triumphant kiss-off to anyone who’s underestimated her, pairing slick production with sharp lyricism and soaring vocals. Confident yet vulnerable, it’s a bold statement of independence that positions KIANA as one to watch on Nashville’s pop-country frontier.

“Hearts Don’t Break” — Antonio Larosa & Taylor-Rae

Canadian country risers Antonio Larosa and Taylor-Rae join forces on “Hearts Don’t Break,” a heart-wrenching duet that perfectly captures the ache of love that’s slipped away. Their chemistry is magnetic — Larosa’s soulful grit and Taylor-Rae’s powerhouse emotion intertwine over a slow-building arrangement that swells with cinematic tension. It’s heartbreak, harmony, and hope all in one.

Give Me Jesus — Trent Harmon

Trent Harmon continues his faith-driven evolution with Give Me Jesus, a deeply personal collection rooted in worship and renewal. The former American Idol winner brings his country storytelling into a spiritual space, channeling gratitude and devotion through every note. Warm, soulful, and earnest, it’s the sound of an artist coming home to his purpose.

“Make A Move” — Erin Kirby

Erin Kirby delivers an emotional knockout with “Make A Move,” a powerful single that blends heartbreak and liberation in equal measure. Co-written with Andrew Beason and Joe Clemmons and produced by Aaron Eshuis, the song finds Kirby urging an ex to move on — so she can finally do the same. With her stunning vocals and evocative delivery, Kirby makes letting go sound both painful and empowering.

“The Way You Want To Be Loved” — Timothy Howls

Plain White T’s guitarist Tim Lopez steps into a new chapter as Timothy Howls with his stirring single “The Way You Want To Be Loved.” A soulful and emotionally rich ballad co-written with Jonathan Terrell, the song reveals a rawer side of the artist — exploring the human desire to be fully seen and understood. With its vulnerable lyricism and elegant production, this is the kind of song that lingers long after it ends.

“Two Trains” — Ty Myers ft. Marcus King

Blues, soul, and southern rock collide on “Two Trains,” as breakout artist Ty Myers teams up with GRAMMY-nominated powerhouse Marcus King. A modern reimagining of Little Feat’s classic, the track roars to life with funky guitars, powerhouse vocals, and old-school grit. The chemistry between Myers and King is undeniable, delivering a collaboration that feels both nostalgic and electric.

Love & Insanity (EP) — Faith Hopkins

Faith Hopkins introduces herself in style with Love & Insanity, a debut EP that wears its heart on its sleeve. The Nashville-based singer-songwriter captures the chaos and beauty of love’s extremes — from dizzying highs to crushing lows. With honest lyrics and acoustic warmth, Hopkins establishes herself as a fearless new voice in country storytelling.

Photo Credit: Britton Webb