This playlist tracks what’s happening from the heart of the country scene to its outer edges. Find fan favorites you already love next to breakout stars and emerging voices. Topping the list this week is “Backup Plan,” a recently released collaboration between Bailey Zimmerman and Luke Combs. Zimmerman tells Apple Music that the first time he heard the empowering anthem, he thought Combs would “freaking crush” it. In late 2024, the pair eventually connected at the Concert for Carolina, a star-studded benefit show that raised funds for victims of Hurricane Helene. They kept in touch and Zimmerman sent the tune to Combs, who loved the track, thrilling Zimmerman and kicking off a new friendship. “Every single thing Luke says is so raw and real,” Zimmerman says. “He didn't have to do any of this stuff. He didn't have to get on my song. He didn't have to let me come play it with him at Stagecoach. He didn't have to do a music video. He did it because he really likes me, and we're actually friends.” Check back here early and often for updates, and if you hear something you like, add it to your library.