5 songs you need to hear this week (January 8, 2026)

Matt Mitchell is Paste‘s editor, reporting from their home in Los Angeles.

Jim McBride, ‘Chattahoochee’ songwriter and Alan Jackson collaborator, dies at 78

Jim McBride, the country music songwriter who partnered with singer Alan Jackson to write hits like 'Chattahoochee' and ...
American Songwriter

Jim McBride, Legendary Songwriter Behind “Chattahoochee” and Other Country Standards, Dead at 78

When released, “Chattahoochee” landed No. 1 on the US Hot Country Songs chart. It also brought Jackson awards for Single of the Year and Song of the Year at the CMA Awards. But no matter the accolades ...
Whiskey Riff

Carly Pearce’s Unreleased New Song Is An Honest Anthem For Anyone Who Has Felt Condemned In Church

New year, new music. Last night, Carly Pearce shared part of an unreleased tune on Instagram seemingly titled "Church Girl," which finds her contending with the fire and brimstone kind of preaching ...
iHeart on MSN

Watch: Carly Pearce sends powerful message, fans are getting 'emotional'

Commenters said “we need it,” “I am little emotional listening to this,” “this one just hits different,” and more.