To mark America's Semiquincentennial, TIME asked 25 experts to share a song that captures the essence of American life today.

It felt very spiritual to do," said Brad Paisley of transforming one of Johnny Cash's poems into a song. "It felt like Johnny ...

These three artists are all considered neo-traditionalists in country music, more or less. They are bringing old Nashville ...

As soon as you hear the opening line, "Oh my God, Becky, look at her butt," you know you're about to listen to "Baby Got Back ...

Looking for the week's best new music? Check out our Songs You Need to Know playlist ...

The release party on May 2 features nine of the 16 bands, five at Tubby’s and four at West Kill Supply, beginning at 1 p.m.