New Lease Music’s New Music Roundup – 28/08/26

Welcome to another country (with a tinge of R&B) edition of NEW LEASE MUSIC’s New Music Roundup, your weekly snapshot of great music from indie and unsigned artists from around the globe.

If you’re a regular visitor to the roundup, you’ll no doubt recognise some familiar faces—true trailblazers who continue to make their mark on the Country music scene—alongside a new artist joining the lineup for the first time.

So, whether you’re here to reconnect with some familiar favourites or discover your next musical obsession, there’s plenty to get excited about.If you like what you hear, comment below!

If you are a indie or an unsigned artist and would like your music featured on the list, send your music links and a short info about the release to submit@newleasemusic.com, with NEW MUSIC ROUNDUP in the subject line.

Thank you for visiting and I hope you enjoy the music!

PAUL MINNICH – LAWN CHAIR LIVIN’

‘Lawn Chair Livin’’ is a nostalgic, country-rock celebration of the people, places, and traditions that bring us back to who we are. Minnich paints the picture from the opening verse: “It’s tailgates and dogs on grills / It’s campfire stories that scare and thrill / It’s small town fairs and their parades / That help to end our week-long charades.”

The song’s message becomes even more personal as Minnich sings, “It brings us back to who we are / And where we come from no matter how far / Life has a way of pulling us away / So grab your chair, plant yourself and stay.”

Then comes the big, easygoing chorus: “Here’s to a life, a life worth livin’ / Load up the truck, get it stuck in the weekend / If you try to find me I’ll be outside and in / My front row to life, lawn chair livin’.”

With its rock edge, catchy hook, and unmistakable small-town charm, ‘Lawn Chair Livin’’ captures the feeling of a backyard cookout, a weekend by the dirt track, or an evening spent with friends and family. At its heart, it’s a reminder to slow down, pull up a chair, and appreciate the life happening right in front of you.

‘Lawn Chair Livin’’ is out today across all leading streaming platforms.

SLAY RACHÉ – YOU MAKE ME WANNA DANCE

Independent pop and R&B artist SLAY RACHÉ enters her most ambitious chapter yet with ‘ You Make Me Wanna Dance,’ a vibrant new single out today. Blending the infectious energy of 80s pop and dance with a contemporary sense of swagger, the track captures Raché’s instinct for instantly memorable songwriting while offering another glimpse into her forthcoming self-titled debut album ‘Slay’ due in Fall 2026.

Produced at Milkboy Studio in Philadelphia, ‘You Make Me Wanna Dance’ draws directly from Raché’s long-standing admiration for Michael Jackson and the golden era of pop and dance music. The inspiration came after she and her fiancé attended the Michael Jackson musical in New York City on Valentine’s Day, an experience that sparked the idea behind the song. What followed is a polished, high-energy pop record built around movement, attraction and the unmistakable feeling of being completely swept up in the moment.

‘You Make Me Wanna Dance’ is out today via all leafing music platforms. Why not check it out below…

BRI FLETCHER – SALTED WATER (MUSIC VIDEO)

BRI FLETCHER returns with new video for latest single, Salt Water,’ an R&B leaning anthem that cleverly uses the healing properties of salt water as a remedy for heartbreak. While the production embraces a smoother, more soulful sound, Fletcher’s signature storytelling remains at the heart of the track, blending emotional honesty with undeniable vulnerability.

The video reflects the song’s message that sometimes the first step toward moving on isn’t pretending you’re okay, it’s allowing yourself to feel everything. Fletcher transforms tears into a symbol of hope: “Thought I’d never be the one to cry online / But WebMD just said I’ll be alright”

‘Salt Water’ marks another step in Fletcher’s evolving artistry, pairing contemporary R&B influences with the heartfelt lyricism that first established her as a country songwriter. It’s a reminder that growth doesn’t always come from hiding your emotions, sometimes it comes from embracing them.

With “Salt Water,” Bri Fletcher continues to carve out a lane entirely her own, proving that authentic storytelling can transcend genre while resonating with anyone who’s ever cried, healed, and found strength on the other side of a heartbreak. Watch the video below…

HOPE DOUDS – COASTAL COWGIRLS

HOPE DOUDS‘ latest single, ‘Coastal Cowgirls’ is a bright, carefree country anthem made for the girls chasing sunshine, salty air, and a little summertime escape.Blending Hope’s Southern roots with the carefree energy of the coast, the song captures that feeling of leaving your worries behind and trading the everyday for turquoise water, warm nights, and a little wild cowgirl spirit.

Hope brings that energy to life with playful lines like, “Rope them all in like a wild horse out on the beach / Want all the turquoise vibes ’gainst the sparkling Atlantic sea / All the coastal cowgirls / Come, follow me.” The song paints an instantly vivid picture of beach days, sparkling water, sun-kissed skin, drinks by the shore, and a whole lot of yee-haw energy.

At its heart, ‘Coastal Cowgirls’ is an invitation to embrace the carefree side of country living. It’s for the girls who can bring their country roots anywhere, trade their ball caps for a beachside state of mind, and turn a simple summer getaway into an adventure. With its playful attitude and feel-good spirit, the song arrives as a natural fit for summer playlists and the final stretch of the season.

‘Coastal Cowgirls’ is out now across various music platforms. Check it out below…

MADDIE LENHART – WHY IN THE WORLD

MADDIE LENHART returns with her most compelling release to date with single, ‘Why in the World’.

Produced by Brad Hill (Maren Morris, Brothers Osborne) and co-written by Maddie with Jay Knowles (Alan Jackson, Lainey Wilson) and Jen Stegall (Carter Faith), “Why in the World” is a cinematic country heartbreak song that turns grief into a search for meaning after losing the person you thought you’d spend forever with. Baritone guitar, steel guitar, fiddle, and layered harmonies meet polished, modern production, creating a sweeping record that bridges classic country storytelling with a fresh, contemporary edge.

The hook of the song lies in its escalating questions— starting with universal truths and spiraling into emotional collapse: “Summers are hot / Winter is cold / We spin on an axis / And gravity holds us down to the ground / So we can’t fly / Why? / Why do fish breathe water? / But we breathe the air? / Why do numbers add up, / But life isn’t fair? / Somebody put the word good / In goodbye / Why?”

From there, it turns inward, landing on the chorus: “There’s so many questions / That I’ve just accepted / I’ll never have answers to / But I still get stuck / On the ones about us / Why was the one thing I wanted the most the one thing I had to lose / Why is the hardest why in the world… you?”

‘Why in the World’ is the third release from her debut EP. Why not check it out below…

YINKA WILLIAMS – WE CAN’T START IT AGAIN

UK singer-songwriter YINKA WILLIAMS continues to establish herself as a compelling new voice in contemporary soul and R&B with her latest single, ‘We Can’t Start It Again’. Blending soulful storytelling with warm, contemporary production and subtle country-pop influences, the track marks a deeply personal new chapter for an artist whose music is rooted in honesty, emotional connection and self-discovery.

Built around the universal experience of closing a chapter and finding the strength to move forward, ‘We Can’t Start It Again’ is a quietly empowering reflection on resilience and knowing your worth. Yinka’s soulful delivery brings warmth and vulnerability to the track, with an expressive vocal style that recalls the timeless melodic sensibilities of 2000s R&B while maintaining a distinctly contemporary edge.

‘We Can’t Start It Again’ is out now across various music platforms. Listen below…

New Lease Music’s New Music Roundup – 14/08/26

Welcome to NEW LEASE MUSIC’s New Music Roundup, your weekly snapshot of great music from indie and unsigned artists from around the globe. In the lineup, there are two exceptional Country Music artists that are worth your time! If you like what you hear, give it a thumbs-up or say who’s your new favorite below in the comment section.

If you are a indie or an unsigned artist and would like your music featured on the list, send your music links and a short info about the release to submit@newleasemusic.com, with NEW MUSIC ROUNDUP in the subject line.

Thank you for visiting and I hope you enjoy the music!

SARAH HARDWIG – BREAKING AWAY

Fresh off a breathtaking America’s Got Talent Season 21 audition that earned four enthusiastic yes votes and a standing ovation from the judges, Nashville country singer-songwriter SARAH HARDWIG is stepping into a powerful new chapter with ‘Breaking Away,’ a fiery country-rock anthem about taking control of your future, embracing who you are, and finding the courage to forge your own path.

Hardwig introduced herself to millions of viewers with an emotional performance of Lainey Wilson’s ‘Heart Like a Truck,’ earning widespread praise from all four judges. Howie Mandel called her performance “beautiful and heartwarming” and described Sarah as “the epitome of resilience.” Mel B praised her vocal control, while Sofia Vergara told Sarah, “I wouldn’t change a thing,” adding that everyone was going to fall in love with her. Simon Cowell called the audition “really, really good” and told her she has a “natural gift.” All four judges ultimately voted yes, sending Hardwig through to the next round.

‘Breaking Away’ is out today across all music streaming platforms. Why not check it out below…

SAM PAIGE – I AM SAM

With her debut full length album, ‘I Am Sam’, SAM PAIGE delivers her most personal and fully realized work to date. Across nine tracks, Paige invites listeners into the complexities of her inner world, blending the heart of country storytelling with modern pop sensibilities and unfiltered honesty. Rather than offering polished perfection, ‘I Am Sam’ embraces vulnerability, creating a body of work that feels as relatable as it is fearless.

At the heart of the album is the standout track ‘Anxiety,’ a deeply candid exploration of invisible battles and the disconnect between outward appearances and internal struggles. Paige’s vocal performance captures the weight of those experiences with striking clarity, while track “My Tattoos” explores the duality of confidence and insecurity, reflecting on self-expression, identity, and the nonlinear process of healing.

‘I Am Sam’ is out today across various music platforms. Why not check out the video for ‘Anxiety’ below…

New Lease Music’s New Music Roundup – 07/08/26

Welcome to August’s first edition of NEW LEASE MUSIC’s New Music Roundup, your weekly snapshot of great music from indie and unsigned artists!

Once again, music was carefully selected across the genre spectrum for your pleasure! If you like what you hear, give it a thumbs-up and share your thoughts in the comment section below – your support means a lot to these rising talents!

JULIE EDDY – WHERE DOES THE TIME GO?

JULIE EDDY returns with ‘Where Does The Time Go’, an intimate country ballad that celebrates the quiet moments that define lasting love. Built around heartfelt storytelling, warm, understated production, and an unforgettable chorus, the song reflects on how life’s seemingly ordinary days become the memories that shape a lifetime.

Eddy shares,“‘Where Does The Time Go?’ explores the kind of moments that seem small and mundane at the time but end up making up the majority of your life spent together. “A continuation of the storyline from ‘BPM’ on my previous album Playing House, this song doubles down on the fact that a slow, peaceful love will stand the test of time over the one that feels like a head rush.”

‘Where Does The Time Go’ is out today across all streaming platforms. Listen below…

THBENJ – COUNT TO TEN

After stepping away from social media, THBENJ used the resulting silence to reconnect with himself—channeling that stillness directly into ‘Count to ten.’ Grounded solely on a raw vocal performance and an electric guitar, the song is a direct antidote to our relentless hustle culture and the daily distractions of modern life. It’s an intimate invitation to take a breath, drop your shoulders, and tune out a money-driven world on your own terms.

In an era of constant noise, Thbenj deliberately resists overstimulating the listener— Leaning into space, dynamic restraint, and pure honesty over wall-of-sound production. Anchored by a refusal to “grow old into bitterness, ‘Count to ten’ is a quiet, fearless rebellion-showing that the best way forward isn’t running faster, but standing still, taking a moment to take a breath.

‘Count to ten’ is out today across all streaming platforms. Why not listen below…

BULLET BRAK X MIKE MARTINEZ – SO CLOSE YET SO FAR

After months of work, ‘So Close Yet So Far’ — the new collaborative EP from BULLET BRAK & MIKE MARTINEZ — is officially out now.

Six tracks. No filler. Just real-life stories, road-tested bars, and boom-bap production built for hip-hop heads. Check it out below…

New Lease Music’s New Music Roundup – 24/07/26

Welcome to NEW LEASE MUSIC’s New Music Roundup, your weekly snapshot of great music from indie and unsigned artists!

This lineup features an assortment of styles for you to tuck in and enjoy -from loved-up EDM to the brooding post-dark punk that blends the atmospheric edge of The Cure with the rhythmic energy of The Police. Remember, If you like what you hear, give it a thumbs-up and share your thoughts in the comment section below – your support means a lot to these rising talents!

NEW LEASE MUSIC’s New Music Roundup will be featured on Mondays or Fridays. If you are a indie or an unsigned artist and would like your music featured on the list, send your music links and a short info about the release to submit@newleasemusic.com, with NEW MUSIC ROUNDUP in the subject line.

Thank you for visiting and I hope you enjoy the music featured!

BRI FLETCHER – SALT WATER

BRI FLETCHER is crying good tears on her new single, ‘Salt Water,’ an R&B leaning anthem that cleverly uses the healing properties of salt water as a remedy for heartbreak. While the production embraces a smoother, more soulful sound, Fletcher’s signature storytelling remains at the heart of the track, blending emotional honesty with undeniable vulnerability.

​The song explores the idea that sometimes the first step toward moving on isn’t pretending you’re okay, it’s allowing yourself to feel everything. Fletcher transforms tears into a symbol of hope: “Thought I’d never be the one to cry online / But WebMD just said I’ll be alright”

‘Salt Water,’ is out today on all leading platforms. Check it out below…

DAVE LENAHAN – BABY I’M GONE LP

DAVE LENAHAN delivers a collection of timeless stories on his new album, ‘Baby I’m Gone’, a roots-driven project that blends classic Americana with the spirit of Cleveland rock. Produced by Grammy-winning producer Alan Sanderson (Fleetwood Mac, Michael Jackson, Elton John, Fiona Apple, B.B. King, Weezer, and The Rolling Stones), the album showcases Lenahan’s gift for heartfelt songwriting and authentic storytelling.

Featuring standout tracks including ‘Baby I’m Gone,’ ‘Die On This Barstool,’ ‘First,’ and ‘Faces in the Glow,’ the project highlights a songwriter whose perspective has been shaped by decades of experience both in and outside of music. The title track, originally recorded by Chancey Williams, has become a fan favorite and frequent show-closer for Lenahan, while each song on the album contributes to a rich and cohesive listening experience.

The release arrives as Lenahan continues building momentum across multiple facets of his career. The album’s title track recently reached #1 on the European Academy of Country Music chart in 2026, further solidifying his growing international audience. Together, the songs serve as a testament to Lenahan’s ability to connect with listeners through themes of love, loss, resilience, and redemption.

‘Baby I’m Gone,’ is out today across all leading music platforms. Have a listen below…

BE KREATIVE – 2 SNAPS

BE KREATIVE is back for the serious hip-hop heads through latest track, ‘2 Snaps’.

Recently the Texas artist was recently interviewed on the blog for his country/Hip-Hop album, ‘Lyrics Cursive’, currently the blog’s Album of the Month. Find out more about him here…but before you head off to the interview, why not check out ‘2 Snaps’ below…

LAUREN ANDERSON – MIDNIGHT TRAIN TO MEMPHIS

LAUREN ANDERSON”s latest offering ‘Midnight Train to Memphis’, is a high-energy cover of Chris Stapleton’s hit which she famously performed during her audition on The Voice. The song tells the gritty story of a man stuck in jail counting down the days until his release.

‘Midnight Train to Memphis’ is released last Friday, 17th June across all leading platforms. Check it out below…

LORI RAYNE – WHISKEY OVER YOU

LORI RAYNE returns with a hard hitting new anthem, ‘Whiskey Over You,’ a country rock powerhouse drenched in heartbreak, whiskey, and the aftermath of a relationship gone wrong. From the opening guitar feedback, the song establishes its attitude and atmosphere, pulling listeners straight into Rayne’s signature blend of grit, emotion, and unapologetic honesty.

‘Whiskey Over You’is released last Friday, 17th June across all leading music platforms. Why not check it out below…

RAIN TO RUST – GENÇ ÖLÜM

After 3 years of silence (except for a compilation appearance), Turkish Post-Punk duo RAIN TO RUST releases their comeback single ‘Genç Ölüm’. This is the first Rain To Rust song with lyrics written in their native language. The title roughly translates into English as “Young Death”. The lyrics are inspired by Yukio Mishima’s “Spring Snow” novel – beauty found intragedy and the idealization of dying young. In band’s own words, “sometimes staying alive is a defeat.” Musically the band describes the song as “The Police and The Cure have an affair back in 1982.”

The duo is recording the follow up to their critically acclaimed album “Martyrdom: Eight Exercises” (2023 – Swiss Dark Nights Records) which should see the light of day in 2026.

‘Genç Ölüm’ was released last Wednesday, 15th July across all leading music platforms. Why not check it out below…

HANDSHAKE IN SPACE – THE ONE (THE LOVE OF MY LIFE)

Swedish EDM producer HANDSHAKE IN SPACE today announces the release of his deeply personal single, ‘The One (Love of My Life).’ The release date is no coincidence; it marks exactly 35 years since the artist became engaged to the love of his life on Midsummer Eve in 1991.

‘The One (Love of My Life)’ is a tribute to lifelong devotion, inspired by the artist’s wife, whom he met in 1987. The track merges the signature electronic sound of HANDSHAKE IN SPACE with an intimate and vulnerable narrative, creating a unique bridge between the high energy of the club and the sincerity of the heart.

“This song is more than just a production to me; it is my wife’s and my story captured in sound,” says the artist behind HANDSHAKE IN SPACE. “Releasing it on Midsummer Eve, 35 years after our engagement, brings everything full circle. It is a reminder that a great, enduring love actually exists and is worth celebrating.”

‘The One (Love of My Life)’ is now out for your pleasure! Check it out below…

A Quick Chat With…Be Kreative

Terrell Paul—better known as BE KREATIVE—has been sharing his music almost since the blog first launched, but his recent material has been hitting differently and attracting well-deserved attention. His latest album, ‘Lyrics Cursive’, is currently the blog’s Album of the Month, thanks to its seamless fusion of hip-hop and country music.

I caught up with the Texas artist to talk about the inspiration behind the well-received project, the creative journey that shaped it, and what listeners can expect from him throughout 2026.

NLM: Hey, thank you for taking part in an interview with NEW LEASE MUSIC. How is 2026 treating you so far?

BK:It’s treating me lol, I’ve just been constantly writing and recording. I landed a placement contract with The Miami Heat to have one of my songs playing in their stadium. Released 4 albums this year and wrote and produced an album for an artist named “MeloGenetic”. So just staying active and focused.

NLM: You released your album, ‘Lyrics Cursive’ back in April. What is the public’s perception of the project so far?

BK:Honestly, if I will have to say all of people love it or want more. But some songs just were not for everyone, I guess. I built around stories I felt had to be express.

NLM: What inspired you to produce the album?

BK: The title I have been having in my head since I was like 20. Growing up and now a lot of people do not understand my handwriting lol. Just like music artist. We all have unique styles and ways to express ourselves. Even if we came from the same culture with same background the way we see things will be expressed into what we experienced through our music. And that is what I wanted to highlight. Just potential.

NLM: How would you describe the album’s sound to potential fans?

BK: It starts off with my interior and exterior exposed. It is not just about my story my battles it is about my determination to believe in myself and the people around me. We are strong as the people we surround ourselves with. So be ready to feel my thoughts and emotions in every moment.

NLM: What is/are your favourite single(s) from the album and why?

BK: Honestly, my favourite song is “Scar’s” I wrote that song before I even started writing the album and I had many songs to add but no matter what. It is a song about struggling and finding the strength to stand up.

NLM: What message would you like the listeners to take away from your album (if any)?

BK: Just because you may not feel it is your best work or your strongest song. Let it flow! Music is not built around algorithms and trending songs. It is your story so, tell it the only way you know how.

NLM: If you had to feature one mainstream artist on ‘Lyrics Cursive’, who would it be and why?

BK: If I had to choice one mainstream artist it would be Kane Brown. My oldest son and Daughter brought me a concert ticket to see him and his performance was amazing. His showmanship and stage presence was incredible.

NLM: So what are your plans for 2026?

BK: To keep pushing and building my catalog. I have more albums recorded and ready but may drop at least minimum of 2 more albums. One will album will be “Exit to the Left” and “Front Porch Revaluations.” So, stay tune both will be something worth listening too, I could promise. And hopefully I find some people looking for a ghostwriter. I love to record and write but I would love to help others highlight their abilities and skills if they cannot find the words to say, I will help them.

NLM: How can potential fans contact you?

BK: My instagram is @ BeKreativemusic, all music platforms BeKreative, Facebook: Terrell Paul. If they like to reach me by email terrellpaul23@proton.me

NLM: Finally, any special shout outs to those involved in the production of ‘Lyrics Cursive’?

BK: My special shout out is always God first, my lovely Wife Michelle and my 4 lovely Kids Nina, Nate, Noah, Nickson and lovely Daughter in Law Yani. I love yall and thank yall for believing in me and being my critics when I did not know I needed one. My momma and my siblings cause y’all life was not easy and fair but God still working on us and we got this I love Yall. My in laws who I cherish with my heart and world Yall accepted me at my lowest and never turned yall back on me even when my decisions were poor thank yall. I will forever be yall favourite son in law love yall forever. And to my late brother “Fatboy” I got the family forever fly high.