Parker McCollum released his latest EP Hollywood Gold today. McCollum talked about his EP in a recent press conference and we’re excited to share his insights on the new music.
Derived from a deep bond with his grandfather, the name specifically relates to his grandfather’s horse from decades ago. “My grandad was one of the best cowboys I’ve ever known – probably the best one that ever lived, in my opinion,” he shared.
McCollum co-wrote five of the six songs on Hollywood Gold including the previously released track “Young Man’s Blues” as well as his current Top 15 single “Pretty Heart.” Hollywood Gold was produced by award-winning singer, songwriter and musician Jon Randall Stewart.
“To say I’m excited for my fans to listen to this new project, Hollywood Gold, is an understatement,” said Parker. “I’m always striving to become a better songwriter and I feel like my songwriting on this EP is some of my best to date.”
Hollywood Gold Track Listing:
- “Young Man’s Blues” (Parker McCollum/Randy Montana)
- “Like A Cowboy” (Chris Stapleton/Al Anderson)
- “Pretty Heart” (Parker McCollum/Randy Montana)
- “Hallie Ray Light” (Parker McCollum)
- “Hold Me Back” (Parker McCollum/Tony Lane)
- “Love You Like That” (Parker McCollum/Billy Montana/Jon Randall Stewart)
McCollum discussed authenticity in country music and how he writes the songs during his struggles and they remain relevant in the future. “Young Man’s Blues” is his favorite song off the new EP and he said it was hard for him to admit that it resonated and even more difficult now to admit that he’s still feeling it. “I wish it would go away and I wish I could move past it,” he admitted. “It just holds a little weight with me. I think that was the most honest I was on the record.”
Good songwriting is exceptionally important to McCollum. He mentioned the prevalence of pop in country radio, but said that “Really good songwriting can still prevail on country radio. You can still make it big in country music without singing the pop side of things.”
When asked about the best piece of advice he ever received, he quoted his former manager, Randy Rogers. “Everybody you see on the way up, you’re going to see on the way down.” This prompted McCollum to ensure he handled situations in a mature way, because making it big means any encounter could go public. It’s an excellent piece of advice and a great way to grow as a person.
Where to Listen
Hollywood Gold is available on Spotify and other streaming platforms. For more information on Parker McCollum, visit https://www.parkermccollum.com/.