Sam Barber Drops New Single “Better Year” & Much-Awaited “Jersey Giant” Cover

Sam Barber is giving fans not one, but two new releases this week. Earlier in the week, a social media clip circulated of Barber telling a crowd that he was going to release a cover of a fan-favorite Tyler Childers song soon. Fans were surprised it happened so quickly. Barber did not delay the release—perhaps because he had already shared the news with the crowd. Fans are thrilled to have his take on Childers’ song and a new single from the Missouri native.

If you have attended a Barber show recently, you have likely heard his rendition of “Jersey Giant,” which always delights the crowd. His studio version maintains that charm. Barber’s low and smooth vocals deliver lyrics fans know by heart, reminiscent of Childers’ style. The melody composition paired with the lyrics retains the original song’s integrity while adding Barber’s unique touch, setting his version apart. Barber excelled with this cover.

While we could enjoy that cover all day, there is another stellar single to discuss. Accompanying the Tyler Childers’ song, Barber released “Better Year,” a sad country song that brings joy. In “Better Year,” the narrator grapples with letting go of a relationship strained because of his actions. He yearns for what they once had but realizes it can never be the same due to his own faults. After much thought, he decides it’s best to let the girl heal, move on, and find someone better. Although it hurts deeply, he believes it will ultimately lead to a better year with less conflict and sorrow.

“Hold on, my dear
Because I’m fighting like hell to face my fears
Someday I’ll tame the fires that brought me here
And it’ll burn like hell
But it might as well be the last time you’re in tears
I’m betting on a better year.”

Sonically, this song follows the formula for a Sam Barber hit. With an emphasis on the acoustic guitar at the forefront of the melody, as the song progresses, percussion and other elements emerge, creating a build as the story unfolds. You can feel the passion in Barber’s vocals, and the composition blends perfectly. This song feels personal to Barber, and while songwriters often draw inspiration from more than their own lives, if this wasn’t from personal experience, it showcases Barber’s talent as a prolific songwriter. Sam Barber continues to impress with each track, making this one well worth a listen.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6MfioWcUIVg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yVVjJ4J4_Dk