Released: June 3, 2016

By: Maren Morris

While country singer Maren Morris had released a few albums prior to this, Hero is the big debut on a major label that she deserves.

Although the female country scene is dominated by Miranda Lambert and Carrie Underwood, Morris has a soulful voice that’s all her own. It’s rich and feels like it could’ve belonged to a rock singer in the ‘70s or ‘80s.

The debut single “My Church” is a love letter to country music, which gave her an easy in with her audience and the stations playing the music. She describes how country music makes her feel and how it’s a real connection to her strength.

While she’s young, you can feel the strength and pain in her voice depending on how she wants to use it.

Final say: One of the best debuts from any artist. ★★★★★