More Favorite Songs of 2022

   I recently listed my Top 10 Favorite Songs of 2022. Just for clarification let me explain that those songs all had to meet the eligibility for that list by reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 during 2022. I happen to be one of those people that believes that "It's not a hit until it's a hit on Billboard". Just in case you don't know, in order to reach the top of the Billboard HOT 100, a song must get the most sales, streams and radio airplay for any given week.

There were lots of other songs that I loved in 2022 that failed to make the top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 singles chart. Here's a list of some of my other favorites in 2022. One thing that I can say about all of these songs is that it's a shame it didn't get more sales and airplay to do better on the Billboard HOT 100 singles chart.

In the ideal world, great songs from Country, Pop, Dance and R and B would all find their way to the upper positions of the Billboard HOT 100.

Never Say Never - Cole Swindell and Lainey Wilson: It's always exciting when two of your favorite artists come together for a collaboration. It happens all the time and we have become accustomed to accepting that one of the artists will sing the first verse while the other takes the second. It can be a very standard cookie cutter protocol. But that's not the case with Never Say Never AT ALL. Cole and Lainey truly sing back and forth WITH each other and TO each other during the entire song! It's genuinely an exceptionally well-crafted piece of work!        

You Can Have Him Jolene - Chapel Hart: They were catapulted into the National Spotlight after singing this song on America's Got Talent. It's definitely a fun and catchy song worthy of attention and they are an extremely talented group who deserves the spotlight to keep shining on them for many years to come.        

One Mississippi - Kane Brown: For years now he has been putting out not only the catchiest and best songs, but he's also one of the top selling and most streamed artists of ANY genre. Yet, time and time again he fails to get the recognition and accolades from the Grammys, the CMA's and the ACM's. But it doesn't matter. The fans have spoken and One Mississippi - Two Mississippi... Two HOT Kane Brown songs made the top 20 of 2022 list!     

Never Wanted To Be That Girl - Carly Pearce and Ashley McBryde: These two current Queens of country music came together to deliver a new twist on good for nothing cheating husband scenario. They make it sound fresh and powerful while still packing a heartbreaking emotional punch.       

Somethin' Bout You - Mickey Guyton: She started the year singing the National Anthem at the Super Bowl and ended the year as the TIME Magazine 2022 Breakthrough Artist of the Year. This song is just one delightful taste of why she deserves all this and so much more! She has the vocal gift and the songwriting chops to earn every accolade there is.     

'Til You Can't - Cody Johnson: This was the inescapable song topping the charts and winning every award out there in 2022. Give it a listen and you'll know why. It checks all the boxes: Relatable, uplifting lyrics. A great beat. And that Passionate vocal delivery by Cody illustrates why he is now one of the most well-liked guys in the industry.     

Ghost Story - Carrie Underwood: All these years later it's easy to forget that she was the Season Four winner of American Idol. She has matured into an absolutely top tier live performer and touring act. At the same time having the most impressive vocal range in the music industry. PERIOD. This is the lead single of her latest album, Denim and Rhinestones, and every song is a showcase for her exceptional talent.     

Wishful Drinking - Ingrid Andress and Sam Hunt: Ingrid is way too talented to be a forgotten one hit wonder, so it's such a joy to see her have a hit again this year. It's well-deserved and we are wishful thinking that we will hear many more.      

Mama, Dolly, Jesus - Madeline Edwards: The best song of the year you haven't heard ... YET!!! Look it up, give it a listen and I guarantee you will be playing it on repeat well into the new year. It's fun, it's playful, and it makes you feel good, all the while celebrating what's important to us, including the Queen of Country Music - Dolly Parton!      

Like I Love Country Music - Kane Brown: His 2022 album Different Man is highly recommended. Of course it has this smash hit country anthem, but it also delivers a diverse and broad cross section of great music covering multiple genres. He's got it all.    

More Favorite Songs of 2019

I recently listed my Top 10 Favorite Songs of 2019. Just for clarification let me explain that those songs all had to meet the eligibility for that list by reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 during 2019. I happen to be one of those people that believes that "It's not a hit until it's a hit on Billboard". Just in case you don't know, in order to reach the top of the Billboard HOT 100, a song must get the most sales, streams and radio airplay for any given week.

There were lots of other songs that I loved in 2019 that failed to make the top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 singles chart. Here's a list of some of my other favorites in 2019. One thing that I can say about all of these songs is that it's a shame it didn't get more sales and airplay to do better on the Billboard HOT 100 singles chart.

In the ideal world, great songs from Country, Pop, Dance and R and B would all find their way to the upper positions of the Billboard HOT 100.

Love You Too Late - Cole Swindell: This is a super fun high energy song perfect for doing many of your favorite dances at a country bar - As a shuffle partner dance, stationary cha cha, or a county line.     

There Was This Girl - Riley Green: There was this great beat. There was this sexy country singer. There was no way this was not going to be a favorite for the year.     

Miss Me More - Kelsea Ballerini: One of the Next Women of Country continuing to climb and go to the next level with hot, fun and catchy songs.  

Good Vibes - Chris Janson: First of all, it's a great song with an inspiring and uplifting message. But you have to see this man live in concert!!! He puts on an outstanding show that will blow you away!    

Southbound - Carrie Underwood: The summer time/Spring Break anthem for this year and for the ages from one of the best singers out there.   

A No No - Mariah Carey: We all know that she dominated at Christmas time spending three weeks at #1 on the Billboard HOT 100, but she did so much more in 2019 that is worthy of attention. This song from her very critically acclaimed album Caution was described by The New York Times as showing her as perfect for this moment in R&B (Again).  

What Happens In A Small Town - Brantley Gilbert and Lindsay Ell: Two sexy country singers coming together to give us a sexy guitar driven love song.  

I Don't Know About You - Chris Lane: It's the song that always seemed to be playing every time I turned on the radio, and I liked it more and more every time.  

The Git Up - Blanco Brown: It's very rare that a song comes a long that not only inspires a viral trend #GitUpChallenge but you also know it's going to live on forever at wedding receptions for all of eternity.   

What If I Never Get Over You - Lady Antebellum: 10 years into their amazing career and they are still serving up the best music has to offer.   

More Favorite Songs of 2018

I recently listed my Top 10 Favorite Songs of 2018. Just for clarification let me explain that those songs all had to meet the eligibility for that list by reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 during 2018. I happen to be one of those people that believes that "It's not a hit until it's a hit on Billboard". Just in case you don't know, in order to reach the top of the Billboard HOT 100, a song must get the most sales, streams and radio airplay for any given week.

There were lots of other songs that I loved in 2018 that failed to make the top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 singles chart. Here's a list of some of my other favorites in 2018. One thing that I can say about all of these songs is that it's a shame it didn't get more sales and airplay to do better on the Billboard HOT 100 singles chart.

In the ideal world, great songs from Country, Pop, Dance and R and B would all find their way to the upper positions of the Billboard HOT 100.

Love Wins - Carrie Underwood gave us an anthem with a message perfect for 2018 and for every year moving forward. Let's walk hand in hand. We are made to be here for each other. #LoveWins #StrongerTogether   

High Horse - Kacey Musgraves has already won the Album of the Year for Golden Hour at the CMA Country Music Association Awards and now she is up for Album of the Year at the Recording Academy / GRAMMYs too. High Horse is just one example of why it is getting so much acclaim.   

Diane - Cam is a real find as one of the Next Women of Country. This is exactly what we are talking about when we ask why isn't country radio playing female artists. Great songs like Diane are getting overlooked.

Make A Little - Midland: Thank goodness for Midland and the amazing country music they are giving us. And you gotta love their outfits!!!  

Most People Are Good - Luke Bryan became a very entertaining judge on American Idol this year as well as maintaining his status as the leading hitmaking country superstar with songs like Most People Are Good. 

Love Someone - Brett Eldredge not only served his fans this great song for two stepping, but this video also showcases why both he and his dog, Edgar Boogie, or both social media superstars.

Done For Me - Charlie Puth has been on a roll for the past few years delivering the best in pop music and he continued the streak in 2018 with Done For Me.

You Make It Easy - Jason Aldean delivered a true work of art with beautiful and romantic waltz. The story in the wonderful three episode video series hits all the right emotional buttons.

Burning Man - The combination of Dierks Bentley and Brothers Osborne on Burning Man is absolute FIRE!!! 

Lose It - Kane Brown with his hot country pop jam Lose It. He was the hottest this to happen in country music this year and this song exemplifies all the heat and energy he generated. 

More Favorite Songs of 2017

I recently listed my Top 10 Favorite Songs of 2017. Just for clarification let me explain that those songs all had to meet the eligibility for that list by reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 during 2017. I happen to be one of those people that believes that "It's not a hit until it's a hit on Billboard". Just in case you don't know, in order to reach the top of the Billboard HOT 100, a song must get the most sales, streams and radio airplay for any given week.

There were lots of other songs that I loved in 2017 that failed to make the top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 singles chart. Here's a list of some of my other favorites in 2017. One thing that I can say about all of these songs is that it's a shame it didn't get more sales and airplay to do better on the Billboard HOT 100 singles chart.

In the ideal world, great songs from Country, Pop, Dance and R and B would all find their way to the upper positions of the Billboard HOT 100.

Unforgettable (Mariah Carey Remix) - French Montana: While the original version of this song actually was a huge Top 10 hit on the Billboard HOT 100, it didn't actually catch my attention until the far superior Mariah Carey remix was released. Her outstanding vocals are a perfect match to the thumping beat. Radio should have gotten their act together and played this version in heavy rotation.     

It Ain't My Fault - Brothers Osbourne: Get on your feet and clap your hands along with the high energy country jam. The video is a high speed chase and adventure that takes you along for the ride.     

The Fighter - Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban: We needed something to hold us over while Carrie is between albums and this pop infused country song fit the bill perfectly. 


Drinkin' Problem - Midland: These guys are keeping traditional country sounds alive with this song that is perfect for a stationary cha cha.   

What Ifs - Kane Brown and Lauren Alaina: We shouldn't drive ourselves crazy thinking about how things could be different, but this song sure captures all of the feelings very well.    

Seeing Red - Dustin Lynch: A young country artist who still wears jeans, boots and cowboy hat! So sexy and sings red hot songs too!    

I Could Use A Love Song - Maren Morris: One of the next women of country with a great song that is a perfect two step.     

Dirt On My Boots - Jon Pardi: He won the CMA Award for New Artist of the Year because of great songs like this.   

Road Less Traveled - Lauren Alaina: It's been 6 years since she was the 1st Runner Up on American Idol and she has finally had her breakthrough hit. It was worth the wait!   

Something I'm Good At - Brett Eldredge: He's got a great voice, great personality and a great sense of humor. And, of course, great songs like this one that is perfect for an energetic quick step. 

Somebody Else Will - Justin Moore: What else can I say except that it's a good song I like to hear on repeat. 

2017 Year End Charts

The #1 album on the Billboard charts for all of 2017 is DAMN by Kendrick Lamar.

It was a slow year on all of the charts for the American Idol finalists in 2017. There isn't a single one of them who had an album rank in the Top 200 Albums for the year.

Over on the Top Country Albums chart for 2017 at least the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season Four Winner Carrie Underwood had her Storyteller land at #40 for the year while Greatest Hits: Decade #1 is at #35.  

The Top 5 singles for 2017 on the Billboard HOT 100 are: #1 Shape of You by Ed Sheeran, #2 Despacito by Luis Fonsi and Daddy Yankee featuring Justin Bieber, #3 That's What I Like by Bruno Mars, #4 Humble by Kendrick Lamar and at #5 Something Just Like This by The Chainsmokers and Coldplay.

There was only one Miss American Idol finalist who managed to squeeze her way on to the 2017 Top Billboard HOT 100 hits of the year. Coming in at #100 is The Fighter by Keith Urban and Carrie Underwood.

Over on the Billboard 2016 Top Country Artists of the Year chart the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood, can be found at #23.

More Favorite Songs of 2016

I recently listed my Top 10 Favorite Songs of 2016. Just for clarification let me explain that those songs all had to meet the eligibility for that list by reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 during 2016. I happen to be one of those people that believes that "It's not a hit until it's a hit on Billboard". Just in case you don't know, in order to reach the top of the Billboard HOT 100, a song must get the most sales, streams and radio airplay for any given week.

There were lots of other songs that I loved in 2016 that failed to make the top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 singles chart. Here's a list of some of my other favorites in 2016. One thing that I can say about all of these songs is that it's a shame it didn't get more sales and airplay to do better on the Billboard HOT 100 singles chart.

In the ideal world, great songs from Country, Pop, Dance and R and B would all find their way to the upper positions of the Billboard HOT 100.

Stronger Together - Jessica Sanchez: The anthem to celebrate the first woman President of the United States. Now I know something went wrong, but it's still an inspiring anthem.    

Perfect Illusion - Lady Gaga: The public can be so harsh. It's one of her best songs ever but she set the standard for herself so high that it's like nothing is ever going to be good enough again.    

Church Bells - Carrie Underwood: Another great story about a man who has done his woman wrong and paid the ultimate price. No one delivers better than Carrie.


Forever Country - Artists of Then, Now and Forever: In celebration of the 50th Annual CMA Awards the biggest in country music all came together to perform this outstanding slice of nostalgia. John Denver would have been very proud.  

You Should Be Here - Cole Swindell: This heartfelt ballad takes you on the emotional roller coaster every time you miss someone and wish they were enjoying a festive moment with you.   

We Went - Randy Houser: A high energy two step about some country bumpkins who steal from the rich and give to the poor and it turns into a hot pursuit police chase!   

Girl Next Door - Brandy Clark: A wonderful songwriter and performer who is sadly overlooked by the masses. Her breakthrough should be coming any day now with songs this good.    

Humble and Kind - Tim McGraw: Beautiful words to live by. Plain and simple, yet completely powerful. The CMT Video of the Year and the CMA Song of the Year.   

Move - Luke Bryan: This country boy is shaking it for us and it's always good!  

Infamous - Mariah Carey and Jussie Smollett: The legendary diva made an appearance on Empire and she performed this amazing song.

American Idol Grammy Nominations

The nominations for the 59th Grammy Awards have been announced and once again there were some Miss American Idol finalists who heard their names called.

The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson is nominated for the Best Pop Solo Performance for her track Piece By Piece that she performed live this season when she was a guest judge. 

The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood, is up for Best Country Solo Performance for her track Church Bells.

The Season 3 Miss American Idol winner Fantasia is nominated for Best Traditional R&B Performance for her track Sleeping With The One I Love. 

The winners will be announced on Sunday February 12th.

2016 Year End Charts

The #1 album on the Billboard charts for all of 2016 is 25 by Adele.

There was only one Miss American Idol finalist who made an impact on the 2016 year end charts. It's no surprise at it is The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood.  The latest release from Carrie Underwood, Storyteller, finishes out the year at #36. She also comes in strong ranking at #98 with her Greatest Hits: Decade #1.

Over on the Top Country Albums chart for 2016 Storyteller lands at #4 for the year while Greatest Hits: Decade #1 is at #25.  

The Top 5 singles for 2016 on the Billboard HOT 100 are: #1 Love Yourself by Justin Bieber, #2 Sorry by Justin Bieber, #3 One Dance by Drake, WizKid and Kyla, #4 Work by Rihanna and Drake and at #5 Stressed Out by 21 Pilots.

There weren't any Miss American Idol finalists who were able to make a showing on the 2016 Top Billboard HOT 100 hits of the year.

Over on the Billboard 2016 Top Artists of the Year chart the Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner Carrie Underwood, can be found at #29. If you only look at the Top Female Artists of 2016 she ends up at #9. And if we look at the Top Country Artists of 2016 Carrie Underwood comes in at #5.

And the Season 15 Miss American Idol winner is...

We all know this is the last season of American Idol and whoever wins tonight will be the last Miss American Idol winner. So while Trent and La'Porsha wait patiently all of the fans were treated to the most fantastic parade of Miss American Idol Superstars!

The show opened with a close up on La'Porsha starting the opening line of Barry Manilow's hit, One Voice. But just like in the song, her voice was joined by one Idol alum after another. It was a rousing and spectacular opening and triggered the first of many tears to be shed throughout the night.

Way back in the finale for Season 1, Kelly Clarkson and Justin Guarini performed a duet of It Takes Two. Tonight, Trent and La'Porsha paid homage to that historic moment with a recreation of that performance.

Favorite Albums of 2015

These were my favorite new albums of 2015:

Brett Eldredge - Illinois: This is the second album from Brett and he decided to name it after his home state, Illinois. This collection is a wonderful mix of sounds from multiple musical genres while still being heartfelt country at the core. Songs like Fire and Shadow have a strong rock edge while his duet with Thomas Rhett, You Can't Stop Me, has a light and funky disco beat. And of course, with a wonderful voice like his, he had to include some amazing love songs like Wanna Be That Song and If You Were My Girl. The lead single, Lose My Mind, is a high energy song that makes you want to get up and dance and the second single, Drunk On Your Love, perfectly takes you to that drunken love place.

Carrie Underwood - Storyteller: The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood decided to show a slightly different side of herself on her 5th collection of all new material. Where earlier songs like Blown Away and Something In The Water are all out vocal showcases where she proves she can belt out the big notes more impressively than anyone else, this album shows her holding back a little more. Her songs have always been true to the great country tradition of telling the stories of people's live and she goes into it full throttle here. The drama of an abusive husband is told in Church Bells, a cheating husband in Dirty Laundry and a perfect husband in Heartbeat. The sound of the album is also more traditional country than her previous albums, but she can easily sing anything. On her third album, Play On, she did a special song about her mother, appropriately titled, Mama's Song. Here, she shows some love to her father on The Girl You Think I Am. The range of different stories she tells on this collection shows her unique ability to convincingly interpret lyrics and relate to her audience.    

More Favorite Songs of 2015

I recently listed my Top 10 Favorite Songs of 2015. Just for clarification let me explain that those songs all had to meet the eligibility for that list by reaching the Top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 during 2015. I happen to be one of those people that believes that "It's not a hit until it's a hit on Billboard". Just in case you don't know, in order to reach the top of the Billboard HOT 100, a song must get the most sales and radio airplay for any given week.

There were lots of other songs that I loved in 2015 that failed to make the top 10 on the Billboard HOT 100 singles chart. Here's a list of some of my other favorites in 2015. One thing that I can say about all of these songs is that it's a shame it didn't get more sales and airplay to do better on the Billboard HOT 100 singles chart.

In the ideal world, great songs from Country, Pop, Dance and R and B would all find their way to the upper positions of the Billboard HOT 100.

Lose My Mind - Brett Eldredge: He's tall and sexy and he sings hot new country hits.   

Make Me Wanna - Thomas Rhett: Such a great beat paired with a handsome guy singing great vocals.   

Smoke Break - Carrie Underwood: She shifts gears to show her more down home country side on this catchy hit.


Take Your Time - Sam Hunt: Talk / Singing is totally a thing thanks to this amazing ballad. 

I Still Love You - Jennifer Hudson: What a perfect song to celebrate marriage equality!!!!  

Loving Your Easy - Zac Brown Band: A throwback sound of 60's Motown updated to perfection.  

Levels - Nick Jonas: The perfect sound for a grown up boy band member going solo. So hot he makes the Queens Scream!   

Biscuits - Kacey Musgraves: More wonderful words of wisdom by a talented young lady who is bringing classic country into the new era.   

Lay Low - Josh Turner: That wonderful deep voice always pulls me in. Yes, Josh, we would love to disappear with you for a while.  

Kick The Dust Up - Luke Bryan: This two time Entertainer of the Year can always be counted on to bring the party. 

Infinity - Mariah Carey: Her outstanding show at the Colosseum in Caesars Palace in Las Vegas has her performing all 18 of her Billboard HOT 100 #1 singles. She finishes the show with this wonderful song and leaves us all wanting more.

American Idol Grammy Nominations

The nominations for the 58th Grammy Awards have been announced and once again there were some Miss American Idol finalists who heard their names called.

The Season 1 Miss American Idol winner Kelly Clarkson is nominated for the Best Pop Solo Performance for her track Heartbeat Song. She is also nominated for Best Pop Vocal Album for her latest release Piece By Piece. 

The Supreme Miss American Idol, Season 4 winner, Carrie Underwood, is up for Best Country Solo Performance for her track Little Toy Guns.

The winners will be announced on Monday February 15th.