Country music fans have something to look forward to this fall as three-time GRAMMY nominee and multi-platinum artist Joe Nichols has announced the release of his 11th studio album ‘Honky Tonks and Country Songs' on Friday, October 25. The album promises to be a celebration of traditional country music with a modern twist, showcasing Nichols’ signature sound that has earned him a reputation as one of Nashville's most authentic voices.
Starting Thursday, September 6, fans can pre-save or pre-add the album across all major digital streaming platforms and retail partners.
Produced by industry veterans Mickey Jack Cones (known for his work with Jason Aldean and Thomas Rhett) and Derek George (who has worked with Randy Houser), ‘Honky Tonks and Country Songs' reflects Nichols’ enduring commitment to country music’s roots while embracing its contemporary evolution. The album features 11 tracks that bridge the gap between country’s storied past and its vibrant present.
One of the standout tracks is ‘Doin’ Life with You,' set for release on September 6. This heartfelt love song, inspired by Nichols’ experiences as a father and husband, is a tender vow to stand by a partner through all of life’s ups and downs. It follows the critically acclaimed single ‘Bottle It Up,' which has already garnered praise from music critics.
Other highlights on the album include the emotional duet ‘Better Than You,' featuring label mate Annie Bosko. This powerful ballad captures the moment two lovers realise that nothing else can compare to the connection they’ve found. Another notable track is ‘Hard Fires,' a mid-tempo song featuring Stevie Woodward, lead vocalist of the ACM-nominated group Runaway June. The song explores the emotional turmoil of rekindling an old flame, blending nostalgia with the irresistible pull of passion.
‘Honky Tonks and Country Songs' also pays tribute to Nichols’ early career, with tracks like the title song reflecting his experiences performing in honky tonks. “I’ve been in a lot of honky tonks,” Nichols shared. “They’re the only places I could play for a long time, and you learn a lot about being an entertainer there, because people come wanting to hear a good song and have a good time. Country songs speak not just to those people, but to all people.”
Nichols is eager for fans to hear the new album, saying, “My job is to make people feel good. And sometimes that means with fun and happy songs, and other times with sad and sorrowful truths. But the goal is always to make them feel good. This album is meant to do exactly that. Everyone can find a good time in a honky tonk and a country song.”
The full track listing for ‘Honky Tonks and Country Songs' is as follows:
1. Honky Tonks and Country Songs – (Tyler Hubbard/Matt Jenkins/Travis Wood/Casey Brown)
2. Bottle It Up – (Josh Kear/Dan Isbell/Paul Sikes)
3. People Still Doin’ That – (Justin Lantz/Clint Daniels)
4. Helpless in a Honky Tonk – (Jared Keim/Ryan Beaver/Neil Medley/Dan Alley)
5. Country Boy Can Survive – (Hank Williams Jr)
6. Hard Fires (featuring Stevie Woodward) – (Michael Carter/Adam Craig/Matt Rogers)
7. Doin’ Life with You – (Jimmy Yeary)
8. Y’all Do – (Jake Mitchell/Michael Hardy/Mike Walker)
9. On and On – (Jason Sellers Terri Jo Box/Dan Smalley)
10. Better Than You (Joe Nichols & Annie Bosko) – (Derek George/John Pierce)
11. Amazing Ways – (Dan Isbell/Jordan Minton/Jonathan Smith)
With ‘Honky Tonks and Country Songs' Joe Nichols continues to solidify his place as one of country music’s most steadfast torchbearers, blending the traditional with the contemporary to create a sound that is timeless yet fresh. Fans can expect a mix of toe-tapping tunes and heartfelt ballads that honor the genre’s rich history while pushing its boundaries.
