Megan Moroney Embraces Optimism on New Album 'Cloud 9'

The 28-year-old country star says her third LP reflects the confidence of 'getting older and knowing what I'm doing'.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Megan Moroney, the rising country star known for her 'emo cowgirl' sound, has released her third album 'Cloud 9' which strikes a more optimistic tone compared to her previous work. The album features collaborations with Ed Sheeran and Kacey Musgraves, and Moroney discusses her songwriting process, the evolution of her lyrics, and preparing for an upcoming U.S. arena tour.

Why it matters

Moroney's shift to a more upbeat and confident sound on 'Cloud 9' reflects her personal growth as an artist, moving beyond the 'degenerate' phase of her earlier work. Her ability to capture specific emotions through her songwriting has earned her a loyal following, and her willingness to experiment with her sound and persona showcases the versatility of the country genre.

The details

Moroney's new album 'Cloud 9' features a mix of upbeat, optimistic tracks like the title song and 'Beautiful Things,' as well as more melancholic tunes like the duet with Ed Sheeran, 'I Only Miss You.' The singer says she writes quickly, often starting with a hook and then building the story around it. She collaborated with several skilled Nashville songwriters on the album, including Jessie Jo Dillon, Amy Allen, and Luke Laird, who helped bring her 'insane ideas and concepts' to life. Moroney's presentation and visual aesthetic are also an important part of her artistry, which she says is 'fun' for her as a former marketing major.

  • Moroney released 'Cloud 9,' her third album, in 2026.
  • In 2023, Moroney's single 'Tennessee Orange' went to No. 1.

The players

Megan Moroney

A 28-year-old country music star known for her 'emo cowgirl' sound and her ability to capture specific emotions through her songwriting.

Ed Sheeran

A British singer-songwriter who collaborated with Moroney on the duet 'I Only Miss You' for her new album 'Cloud 9'.

Kacey Musgraves

A country music singer-songwriter who teamed up with Moroney on the track 'Bells & Whistles' from 'Cloud 9'.

Kenny Chesney

A country music star who recently commented that Moroney 'couldn't care less about being a celebrity'.

Jessie Jo Dillon, Amy Allen, Luke Laird

Skilled Nashville songwriters who collaborated with Moroney on 'Cloud 9'.

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What they’re saying

“Every single song she's released captures specific emotions.”

— Ed Sheeran

“If celebrity was my goal, I feel like I'd be failing a little bit.”

— Megan Moroney, Country Music Star (Los Angeles Times)

“A lot of comments I see are 'I hate her voice but she's a good songwriter.' I'm like, 'So you think I'm a good songwriter?'”

— Megan Moroney, Country Music Star (Los Angeles Times)

What’s next

Moroney will embark on a U.S. arena tour this summer to support the release of 'Cloud 9'.

The takeaway

Megan Moroney's evolution as an artist, moving from her 'degenerate' early work to the more confident and optimistic sound of 'Cloud 9,' showcases her growth as a songwriter and performer. Her ability to capture specific emotions and her willingness to experiment with her sound and persona have earned her a loyal following in the country music genre.