Country music legend Kenny Chesney is releasing Silver Sands Marina, his 21st studio album, on September 25, 2026, through his new independent imprint Hey Now Records. Produced by Chesney alongside Nashville veteran Buddy Cannon, the 11-song project arrives as a statement of creative freedom, the first album Chesney has released outside of a major label deal. Featuring guest appearances from Megan Moroney, Colbie Caillat, and Lily Meola, Silver Sands Marina is already shaping up to be one of the most anticipated country albums of fall 2026.
Going Independent on Hey Now Records
Chesney’s launch of Hey Now Records is among the most significant label moves in country music in years. After decades at Columbia Nashville and then Warner Music Nashville, the 8-time CMA Entertainer of the Year decided to own every decision on his own terms. That kind of independence changes everything: release timing, creative direction, marketing spend, and royalty structure all shift in the artist’s favor. The songwriting roster backing Silver Sands Marina includes Nashville’s top writers, including Tony Lane, Tenille Townes, Matraca Berg, Shane McAnally, Brett James, Jessie Jo Dillon, and Adam Wright. That lineup reads like a Grammy ballot, and for good reason: these are the writers behind some of the biggest country songs of the past decade.
Two Singles, One Historic Milestone
Chesney has already unveiled two songs from Silver Sands Marina, each generating major buzz. The lead single, “Carry On,” landed as a landmark moment: it became his 100th entry on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, a milestone only a handful of artists in history have reached. The title track, “Silver Sands Marina,” followed as the second preview of the project, giving fans a taste of the warm, coastal atmosphere at the heart of this album. If these two songs are representative, the full 11-track record will deliver the sun-soaked energy and heartfelt storytelling that have defined Chesney’s legacy for three decades.
Megan Moroney, Colbie Caillat, and Lily Meola Join the Record
The guest appearances on Silver Sands Marina are among the most exciting details of this announcement. Megan Moroney, one of country music’s most in-demand voices over the past two years, brings the rich, emotive delivery that lifts every song she touches. Colbie Caillat, the Grammy-winning songwriter known for her warm acoustic style, adds a crossover dimension that could introduce Chesney to an entirely new audience. Lily Meola rounds out the features with her ethereal vocal presence. Together, these pairings suggest an album with real sonic range and emotional depth. For a deeper look at the albums defining country music right now, see our 10 Best Country Albums of 2026 So Far, Ranked.
- Album: Silver Sands Marina
- Release date: September 25, 2026
- Label: Hey Now Records (independent)
- Producer: Kenny Chesney and Buddy Cannon
- Tracks: 11
- Featured artists: Megan Moroney, Colbie Caillat, Lily Meola
- Lead singles: “Carry On” (his 100th Billboard Hot Country Songs entry), “Silver Sands Marina”
Frequently Asked: When does Kenny Chesney’s Silver Sands Marina album come out?
Kenny Chesney’s 21st studio album, Silver Sands Marina, releases on September 25, 2026, through his new independent label Hey Now Records. The 11-track project is co-produced by Chesney and Buddy Cannon and features Megan Moroney, Colbie Caillat, and Lily Meola as guest artists.
Silver Sands Marina is more than a 21st album. It is a declaration of creative independence from one of country music’s most decorated artists, backed by the songs, collaborators, and milestone moments to match. Mark September 25 on your calendar, and keep following Sunset Country Fest for full album coverage, new single reviews, and the latest country music news all year long.
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Sources & References
- Kenny Chesney Official Site: Silver Sands Marina Arrives September 25
- Billboard: Kenny Chesney Silver Sands Marina Release Date Revealed
- MusicRow: Kenny Chesney Slates New LP Silver Sands Marina for Fall
- Country Central: Kenny Chesney Announces New Album Silver Sands Marina
When does Kenny Chesney’s new album Silver Sands Marina come out?
Kenny Chesney’s Silver Sands Marina releases on September 25, 2026, via his new independent label Hey Now Records. It is his 21st studio album and features 11 tracks co-produced by Chesney and Buddy Cannon.
Who are the featured guests on Kenny Chesney’s Silver Sands Marina album?
Silver Sands Marina features guest appearances from Megan Moroney, Colbie Caillat, and Lily Meola. The album also includes songwriting from Tony Lane, Tenille Townes, Matraca Berg, Shane McAnally, Brett James, Jessie Jo Dillon, and Adam Wright.
What is Kenny Chesney’s new record label Hey Now Records?
Hey Now Records is Kenny Chesney’s new independent record label, which he founded after leaving Warner Music Nashville. Silver Sands Marina is the first release on the label, giving Chesney full creative and business control over his music for the first time in his career.
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Last updated: July 9, 2026 · Sunset Country Fest Editorial Team · Contact Us