Catching fire with her 2022 single “Tennessee Orange,” Megan Moroney is finding her place among today’s great female country artists. Next month, the CMA’s reigning New Artist of the Year embarks on her headlining Am I Okay? Tour, named for her sophomore album. Released last July, Am I Okay? lives up to Moroney’s “emo cowgirl” reputation. And recently, she performed the record’s most heartbreaking track live for the first time. Get ready to cry.
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Megan Moroney Wrote This Song For Her Late Uncle
The Country Radio Seminar hosted its annual CRS Honors Wednesday (Feb. 19) in downtown Nashville. Committed to “celebrating the accomplishments, legacy and future of country radio,” the event featured performances from Megan Moroney and Tigirlily Gold.
Taking the stage during the “In Memoriam” segment, Moroney paid tribute to those the industry lost with a somber performance of “Heaven By Noon.” Strumming along on a sparkling silver guitar, she sang the lyrics live for the first time: Did you know how much I loved you? / Did I tell you enough? / I’ve been cryin’ since I got the call / Been beatin’ myself up.
Sadly, those soul-shattering lyrics have an even more devastating backstory. Last July, Moroney shared with Today’s Country host Kelleigh Bannen that “Heaven By Noon” is a tribute to her uncle, who died in the Sept. 11, 2001 World Trade Center attacks in New York City.
“So, I kind of thought about my aunt when I was writing that song,” said Moroney, 27. “The last thing they talked about was an oil change. And so, that’s probably not what what she would have wanted to say to him if she knew it was gonna be the last time. It’s definitely a heart-wrenching song.”
[RELATED: Watch Megan Moroney & Kenny Chesney Perform “Am I Okay?” During Sun Goes Down Tour]
Unsurprisingly, many fans can connect with that particular kind of grief. “Lost my dad in September,” one TikTok user wrote. “This song has stayed on repeat since then.”
Moroney Will Be Honored at 2025 Billboard Women in Music
Hosted by actress and activist Laverne Cox, the 2025 Billboard Women in Music awards are set for March 29. This year’s event will honor artists like JENNIE, Erykah Badu, GloRilla, Gracie Abrams, and more.
Additionally, Megan Moroney will receive the Rulebreaker Award. This recognition is reserved for “female artists who use their music and platform to defy traditional industry expectations and advance a powerful message for young people.”
Fellow country star Lainey Wilson took home last year’s award.
Featured image by Shutterstock
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