Artists, International, Pop

Cloud 9 Album Review: Megan Moroney’s Brightest Country-Pop Moment So Far

Artist: Megan Moroney

Release Date: February 20, 2026

Genre: Country / Country-Pop

Label: Sony Music / Columbia

Format: Studio Album (15 tracks)


🎧 Overview

Cloud 9 marks Megan Moroney’s third studio album, following her breakthrough successes with Lucky and Am I Okay?. Set for a February 20 release, this project has been teased as her most confident and personal record yet, blending her signature storytelling with broader sonic playfulness and high-profile collaborations.


🎶 What to Expect

The album features 15 tracks that showcase Megan’s evolution both lyrically and musically. It blends emotional vulnerability with vibrant melodies, moving smoothly between breakup anthems and introspective ballads.

Highlights include:

  • Cloud 9 The title track sets the tone with a buoyant, uplifting feel.
  • 6 Months Later A lead single that turns heartbreak into strength with clever lyrics and an energetic groove.
  • Beautiful Things A heartfelt ballad inspired by real life, revealing a softer and more introspective side.
  • I Only Miss You (ft. Ed Sheeran) A standout collaboration that adds international appeal.
  • Bells & Whistles (ft. Kacey Musgraves) Another high-profile feature that expands her sonic palette.

📜 Themes & Lyricism

Moroney continues her tradition of honest, diary-like songwriting. There’s a clear balance between playful sass (Stupid) and emotional depth (Who Hurt You?), maintaining her relatable voice while leaning into maturity and self-assured storytelling.

From a broader perspective, Cloud 9 feels like a natural progression from her earlier work. While Lucky and Am I Okay? explored heartbreak and self-realization, this album feels like the afterglow of that journey — confidence, healing, and embracing life after turmoil.


🌟 Sound & Production

Produced primarily by Kristian Bush, the album reframes Moroney’s country roots with modern touches. Some tracks lean toward pop-pier polish, while others retain classic country elements such as steel guitar and narrative-driven lyrics. The production enhances replay value, balancing radio-ready hooks with emotional resonance.


🤝 Collaborations That Elevate

With features from artists like Ed Sheeran and Kacey Musgraves, Cloud 9 introduces fresh textures that extend beyond traditional country audiences — a smart step toward broader global reach.


📊 Final Thoughts

Cloud 9 is shaping up to be a career milestone for Megan Moroney — an era defined by confidence, vulnerability, and versatility. Country fans and pop-leaning listeners alike should find something to connect with, whether through personal lyricism, catchy hooks, or standout collaborations.

Rating (pre-release impression): ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4/5)

If the album lives up to its singles and the narrative built around it, Cloud 9 could easily become one of the defining country albums of early 2026.