Joe Nichols knows exactly who to thank for his recent return to the sound that made him a country fan favorite — and it’s not a record executive or a radio programmer.

Instead, the “Brokenheartsville” singer says he owes it to the new generation of artists who are helping bring traditional country back to the spotlight.

“I think the younger guys have helped me,” Nichols shared on the Drifting Cowboy podcast.

He continued, “For me to break through with something traditional country would not be nearly as easy as it is for a Zach Top , who is doing some real country stuff. In a weird way, it’s opened doors back up for me.”

A Return to Roots

Nichols’ last few projects have marked a full-circle moment for the 48-year-old country veteran.

With albums like Good Day for Living and

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