Grab your boots and turn the volume all the way up, because Celeb Secrets Country‘s New Music Friday playlist is officially for the country music lovers. From fan-favorite anthems finally getting their moment to fresh EPs from rising stars and legendary voices revisiting iconic eras, January 23’s release slate proves country music is thriving across generations.
Leading the pack is award-winning hitmaker Parker McCollum, who’s giving fans what they’ve been begging for with a long-awaited new song that’s already a standout in his live shows. Rising Texas breakout Hudson Westbrook follows with a brand-new EP and major momentum at radio, while Reba McEntire celebrates a career milestone with a nostalgic release that hits straight in the feels. Plus, GRAMMY® Artist to Watch Kashus Culpepper officially arrives with one of the year’s most anticipated debut albums.
Parker McCollum is officially delivering on one of fans’ biggest requests with the release of “Big Ole Fancy House,” a track that’s been living in his live set for years and is now finally available everywhere.
Written by McCollum alongside Lori McKenna, Liz Rose, and Hillary Lindsey, the song leans into classic country storytelling, centering on the idea that no matter how big the dream or how fancy the house, none of it matters without someone to share it with — and honestly, we’re emotional already.
“Y’all been asking for this one for a while so I’m glad it’s finally getting to you,” McCollum shares in a statement. “Took a couple of times of cutting it before it felt good enough to release… Appreciate all the love everyone has shown this song. Means a lot.”
“Big Ole Fancy House” will appear on the upcoming Deluxe Edition of PARKER MCCOLLUM, out March 20, adding to the critically acclaimed project that showcased his signature blend of traditional country roots and modern-day grit. The timing couldn’t be sweeter either — McCollum is gearing up for a massive 2026 touring run, including his fourth consecutive appearance at the Houston Rodeo and another return to Red Rocks Amphitheatre, where he’s sold out three years in a row.
Texas country’s fastest riser Hudson Westbrook is keeping his breakout era alive with the release of his sophomore EP, Exclusive — and the timing couldn’t be better.
The five-song project, written entirely by Westbrook with collaborators including Neil Medley, Lukas Scott, Beau Bailey, and Dan Alley, blends infectious hooks with heartfelt storytelling, further cementing his status as one of country music’s artists to watch.
“This EP is different for me because I was able to write from a different perspective than my last record, while staying true to my Texas influences,” Westbrook shares in a statement. “The fans are really connecting to the songs and I’m happy this is finally out in the world.”
The release comes hot on the heels of his national performance debut on NBC’s TODAY and as his debut radio single “House Again” continues climbing inside the Top 10 — not to mention he’s already crossed one billion career streams (casual). Up next? Major tour support slots with Bailey Zimmerman and Morgan Wallen, plus a packed festival run through 2026.
Country royalty Reba McEntire is taking fans on a nostalgic ride with the release of the 30th anniversary edition of her beloved album Starting Over — and yes, it’s just as iconic as you remember.
Originally released in 1995, the project debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Country Albums Chart and went Platinum, delivering classics like “On My Own,” the powerhouse collaboration with Trisha Yearwood, Martina McBride, and Linda Davis that became one of the most unforgettable moments in country music history.
The anniversary edition features three bonus tracks, including Reba’s take on Don Williams’ “Tulsa Time,” plus “Heat Wave” and “Misty Blue,” giving longtime fans and new listeners alike a fresh way to experience one of her most cherished eras.
GRAMMY® Artist to Watch Kashus Culpepper is stepping into his star moment with the release of Act I, a stunning and soul-forward debut album that blends Americana grit, Southern rock edge, and intimate country storytelling — and honestly, it already feels like the arrival of a legacy artist.
“Creating music has been the greatest joy of my life,” Culpepper shares in a statement. “My debut album Act I serves as a beginning of that journey… thank you to every musical idol I’ve ever had.”
And speaking of idols — Culpepper’s already earned some of the most coveted co-signs in music. Elton John calls him “if Bill Withers made country music,” while John Mayer declares he’s “as good as it gets.”
The 18-track project showcases the many sides of Culpepper’s artistry — from the silky soul of “Break Me Like” and hometown love letter “Alabama Beauty Queen,” to the sweeping piano ballad “Cherry Rose” and the blues-rock fire of “In Her Eyes.” Fan-favorite “Broken Wing Bird,” featuring Sierra Ferrell, stands out as one of the album’s most emotional moments, blending their voices over stripped-back guitar in the most hauntingly beautiful way.
Recorded at the legendary Ivy Manor Studio in Muscle Shoals, Culpepper’s Alabama roots pulse through every note, channeling the same soulful energy that once filled the halls for icons like Aretha Franklin and Wilson Pickett — while still sounding entirely his own.
But that’s not all! This week’s playlist is also packed with new heat from Carly Pearce, Ashley McBryde, Conner Smith, and Tiera Kennedy, but don’t forget to scroll through the full list and let us know if you’re loving these tracks by either leaving a reaction at the bottom of the post or by sliding into our DMs on Instagram at @celebsecretscountry.
