Country Universe

LeAnn Rimes, "What I Cannot Change"

August 8, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 16

Simply put, this is the finest single of LeAnn Rimes' career, which already stretches longer than a decade and has included such gems as “Blue” and “Probably Wouldn't Be This Way.” Rimes co-wrote this spin

Melissa Lawson, “What If It All Goes Right”

August 8, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 20

The good thing about reality singing competitions: a strong singer gets a shot at stardom that they might not get otherwise. The bad thing about reality singing competitions: if they win, they’re saddled with a

Josh Gracin, “Unbelievable (Ann Marie)”

August 8, 2008 Leeann Ward 6

While this song may not be quite as steamy as Sara Evans’ latest single, “Love You With All My Heart”, it seems to focus on the intimacies of the Gracin relationship. As indicated in the

Thursday Discussion: Embarrassing Albums

August 7, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 47

We all have our guilty pleasures, but some of the albums I've bought with my own money are downright embarrassing, especially now that I can buy them online. Gone are the days of avoiding eye

Sound Off: The McClymonts

August 7, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 7

Our occasional feature spotlighting new artists continues today, as we turn our attention to another Aussie country act: The McClymonts. This sister act has already gained popularity in their home country. Here's a bit of

Wednesday Discussion: CMA Female Vocalist, 2008

August 6, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 102

Following up on last night's discussion on who should be nominated for Male Vocalist this year at the CMA's, it seems logical to talk about the female vocalists next. There was a time when this

Crunching the Numbers: Sugarland Moves to #1 Overall

August 6, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 7

Sugarland will move to #1 on the overall album chart this week, following a relatively small 45 percent drop from their opening week numbers. Last week, it entered at #2 with sales of 313,600. This

Tuesday Open Thread (Part Deux): CMA Male Vocalist, 2008

August 5, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 43

Starting today, open threads will be posted in the evening as an end-of-day feature. Tonight's topic: Who do you think should be this year's five nominees for Male Vocalist of the Year at the CMA

Todd Snider, “Mission Accomplished (Because You Gotta Have Faith)”

August 5, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 7

Todd Snider has the social conscience of a Rodney Crowell, mixed with the wry, detached humor of a Mitch Hedberg. Too many artists lose their sense of humor when they attempt to make social commentary,

Random Thoughts: Melissa Lawson Wins Nashville Star

August 5, 2008 Kevin John Coyne 14

It's hard not to get a little excited over Melissa Lawson's win last night. Granted, Nashville Star hasn't been producing hitmakers by the dozen, but some truly talented artists have gotten their start on the