Chris Stapleton, Lainey Wilson, and additional artists reviewed for their singles at Country Central

Lainey Wilson has seen a string of successes in recent years, culminating in back-to-back Entertainer of the Year awards, a headline tour, and the release of her album Whirlwind. Her rendition of Judy Garland’s “Over the Rainbow” in “Somewhere Over Laredo” serves as a preview for her upcoming Whirlwind Deluxe album. Wilson impresses with her ability to breathe new life into a relatively slow-paced song, showcasing her soulful vocals against a backdrop of Western-inspired production that adds depth without overshadowing. The track features well-executed instrumental dropouts in the second pre-chorus, providing a brief moment of respite before building back up. The lyrics transport listeners to the sky, offering a glimpse of Wilson’s view from an airplane, where she muses about her “Lonestar-crossed” lover and yearns for a descent into Texas. While “Somewhere Over Laredo” may not redefine a genre, it stands as a strong release from Wilson, resonating emotionally, displaying solid production, and demonstrating her ability to infuse freshness without overreaching. Though it may not be a contender for ‘Song of the Year,’ Lainey Wilson’s latest offering stands out amidst the current landscape of country music.

Jon Bellion and Luke Combs delve into themes of trust and love in their collaboration “WHY.” The artists, both married with children, explore the query “Why love anything at all?”, delving into the emotional complexity surrounding relationships and the fear of heartbreak. While the lyrics may lack intricate complexity, they succeed in conveying the raw vulnerability of the narrators. Combs shines with his raspy vocals, stealing the spotlight, while Bellion’s voice, albeit heavily autotuned, provides a contrasting texture. The track veers into Disney movie soundtrack territory, culminating in a dramatic closing refrain of “Why love?” repeated ten times. Despite its bleak message, “WHY” exudes an anthemic quality, punctuated by a triumphant arrangement that hints at unresolved battles. While the track may suffer from vocal disparities, it offers a poignant exploration of love’s intricacies.

Chris Stapleton makes a triumphant return with “Bad As I Used To Be,” his first release since November 2023. The track, featured on the upcoming F1 movie soundtrack, exemplifies Stapleton’s signature blend of soulful vocals, bluesy harmonica, and electric guitar. Produced by Dave Cobb, the song maintains Stapleton’s distinct sound, reminiscent of his previous hits like “Devil Always Made Me Think Twice.” A lively guitar solo injects energy into the composition, showcasing Stapleton’s vocal prowess and magnetic presence. While “Bad As I Used To Be” may not stand out in Stapleton’s expansive catalog, it serves as a solid addition to his repertoire, offering listeners a taste of his celebrated artistry. As Stapleton continues to deliver exceptional music, “Bad As I Used To Be” reaffirms his status as a revered icon in the country music scene.