When Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan teamed up to perform at the 2024 ACM Awards, fans hoped the two stars might collaborate again in the future. That wish was granted, as Ballerini’s latest single, “Cowboys Cry Too”, features the “Stick Season” superstar. After penning the song—which encourages men to be in touch with their emotions—with co-writer Alysa Vanderheym, Ballerini wanted to find a male artist who fit the track’s message. Kahan was her first pick, and Ballerini left room for him to write his own verse after he agreed. “I thought, ‘I think this song could be more impactful if there was a male counterpart that would go there, that was willing to just rip open his chest and bare his soul and tell his side of that story,’” she tells Apple Music. “And I’m such a fan of Noah.” Ballerini also hinted that more new music would come this year, writing on social media, “So proud and excited to release this first song in a new chapter of music.” This playlist tracks what’s happening from the heart of the country scene to its outer edges. Check back here early and often, and if you hear something you like, add it to your library.