Here with a Pawn Shop Guitar The BEST HEARTS Are Broken In Your Eyes

Hello, my favorite Monday peeps! Weekends just never seem to be long enough! One of these days I’m going to find time for some downtime…just not today. 😄 Somehow we’re already in the middle of July, and I’m still trying to figure out who’s in charge of the pause button—or better yet, pry someone’s finger off the fast-forward button!

It’s a freebie week, which means anything goes…and you know what that means! It’s the perfect excuse to share some of the newest songs I’ve discovered lately. This week’s playlist is filled with heartfelt storytelling, uplifting anthems, and a few tunes that have been living rent-free in my head.

Whether you’re looking for your next favorite song or simply stopping by to see what’s been playing on my speakers lately, I hope you’ll discover something worth adding to your own playlist. So grab your favorite beverage, turn up the volume, and let’s get this week’s Monday’s Music Moves Me party started! 🎶😊

Let’s start with a brand new song that’s a collaboration. Some collaborations just make perfect sense, and this one is a shining example. Bringing together two artists known for their powerful storytelling and unmistakable voices, this song explores what it means to face your past with honesty and humility.

Rather than running from regret, the song invites listeners to acknowledge the moments that have shaped them—the victories, the mistakes, the heartaches, and everything in between—as part of the journey that made them who they are today.

What makes this song especially compelling is its quiet vulnerability. With stripped-back instrumentation and beautifully blended harmonies, the focus remains on the emotion behind every lyric. At its heart, the song is about letting go of shame, finding acceptance, and realizing that healing often begins the moment we’re willing to tell our story.

It’s a powerful reminder that we don’t have to carry every burden alone, and sometimes simply being seen and understood is the first step toward finding peace.

Give a listen to Mumford & Sons and Chris Stapleton with “Here”:

Next up is a brand-new song from this favorite artist. Sometimes the biggest dreams begin with one small leap of faith. Inspired by a true story from the artist’s own life, this song looks back at the moment when a young college student made the bold decision to trade something valuable for the chance to pursue an even bigger dream.

What seemed like a simple purchase—a well-worn guitar from a pawn shop—would eventually become the first step on an incredible musical journey. It’s a heartfelt reminder that life-changing moments often begin with ordinary choices and a willingness to believe in yourself.

What makes this song especially meaningful is its message of hope and perseverance. Rather than focusing on fame or success, it celebrates the courage to chase a dream, even when the odds seem stacked against you. Filled with nostalgia, gratitude, and authentic storytelling, the song reminds us that our greatest adventures often start with humble beginnings.

Sometimes all it takes is a little faith, a lot of determination, and the courage to follow your heart wherever it leads.

I think this is one of the most authentic songs he’s recorded in a long time. It’s not about being a country superstar—it’s about the kid before the fame, who believed a $20 guitar (paid for by pawning his class ring) might open a door to a different future. Knowing that the story is rooted in his own life makes the song feel even more genuine.

Get ready for goosebumps; here’s Tim McGraw with “Pawn Shop Guitar”:

Next up is a brand-new song from this favorite artist. Sometimes the people with the biggest hearts are the ones who have experienced the deepest pain. Inspired by a true story shared by a listener, this song celebrates those who continue to show kindness, compassion, and strength even while carrying burdens of their own.

Rather than allowing life’s hardships to harden their hearts, they choose empathy, hope, and love—a beautiful reminder that our greatest struggles can often become our greatest source of compassion for others.

The artist also released a powerful new music video that beautifully brings the song’s message to life. Rather than relying on flashy effects, the video shines a light on the quiet strength found in everyday people and the unseen challenges so many are carrying. It’s a moving visual reminder that we never truly know what someone else is going through—and that a little kindness can make a world of difference.

Paired with the song’s uplifting message and heartfelt storytelling, the video transforms an already meaningful song into an experience that’s likely to stay with you long after the music ends.

Get ready for more goosebumps; here’s Andy Grammer with “The BEST HEARTS Are Broken”:

Last but certainly not least, some musical partnerships are simply meant to be, and this long-awaited reunion proves that time hasn’t diminished the chemistry one bit. More than a decade after first creating some of the most memorable dance-pop anthems of the 2010s, these artists have come together once again with a song that captures the same uplifting energy while adding a fresh, modern twist.

Built around themes of love, devotion, and the joy of finding someone who makes the world feel a little brighter, it’s a reminder that some creative collaborations only get stronger with time.

What makes this song especially enjoyable is the balance between emotion and pure feel-good energy. Sweeping melodies, soaring vocals, and an infectious beat come together to create the kind of track that begs to be played with the windows down on a sunny day. Whether you’re a longtime fan of their earlier collaborations or discovering this musical partnership for the first time, the song is a celebration of reconnecting, embracing the moment, and appreciating the people who bring light into our lives.

Sometimes the best reunions are the ones that remind us exactly why we fell in love with the music in the first place.

Get ready to dance, here’s Alesso and OneRepublic with “In Your Eyes”:

That’s a wrap for this week – have a great Monday! See you on the dance floor!

Now, onto the particulars of Monday’s Music Moves Me:

I have the supreme honor and privilege of being a co-host with the inimitable Xmas Dolly and our musical cohort, the awesome Cathy from Curious as a CAThy, and Alana of Ramblin’ with AM!

Want to join in the fun? It’s easy – just find a tune that rocks your boat, post it and link up – don’t forget to grab Xmas Dolly…er, um, I mean her button…over at her place here. Check out Xmas Dolly’s sidebar for the random themes we sport each week – and you can always ask for a specific theme of music you like, too. Check out the other music lovahs and let’s jam!