“Cloud 9” by Megan Moroney Combines Fun Melodies, Heartfelt Lyrics, and Country Twang

Concept art of Megan Moroney’s latest album, “Cloud 9”, which was released on February 20, 2026. Photo Credits: Megan Moroney

Rebecca Billette, Editor-in-Chief of The Powderhorn

Singer-songwriter Megan Moroney took the country music community by storm in 2024 with her second studio album, “Am I Okay?” Since then, she has been showered with praise and accolades for her combination of conversational lyrics, polished production, and authentic but upbeat sound. On February 20, 2026, she released yet another album, “Cloud 9,” which talks about everything from heartbreak to revenge to finding love again. 

This album was once more a seamless blend of pop, country, and a whole lot of heart. I thoroughly enjoyed each of its 15 songs and think it’s some of Moroney’s best work. However, a few of the songs in particular stood out to me the most.

5. “Medicine”

It was an incredibly difficult decision to choose 5th place. If I could, I would make every single song not included on this list tied for this spot, but I felt “Medicine” deserved it the most. Moroney has an incredible ability to make each of her songs about a very specific situation or concept (for an example, just see “Heartbroken in a Hair Salon” from her EP “Pistol Made of Roses”). “Medicine” is a fun instance of this, where she describes the idea of a girl doing the same things to her ex-boyfriend as he did to her.

“Medicine” is an upbeat, dancey song, and feels like it would be great for line dancing. The bridge is a specific highlight of this song and is particularly catchy. This is one of Moroney’s songs with some strong country instrumentals, specifically during the chorus. With twangy guitars and a heavy bass and drum line, it’s hard not to feel like dancing when you hear this song.

4. “6 Months Later”

“6 Months Later” was one of two songs off the album that Moroney released in advance of “Cloud 9” coming out. This one is less of a dance song, but still upbeat and with a consistent rhythm. Moroney loves her chord changes, and this song is full of them, especially in the titular phrase “What doesn’t kill you, calls you 6 months later.”

Moroney is a master songwriter, and her lyrics in this song are some of her best. She uses many common sayings and idioms, making the writing both personal and humorous. For example, she says, “Out of six feet deep, I was five” and “Oh, how the turns have tabled.” This is likely meant for the younger Gen Z audience Moroney has appealed to so strongly, because, like most of her lyrics, “6 Months Later” feels like having a conversation with your best friend.

3. “Beautiful Things”

Purely as far as the message goes, this is probably my favorite Moroney song, simply because of the advice and empowerment it offers the young girls who listen to her. “Beautiful Things” is a heartfelt piece that describes the doubt many young women feel as they’re growing up, both when it comes to being left out by friends and having their hearts broken by first relationships. Moroney offers a sympathetic ear through this song and uplifts listeners, reassuring them, “You’re pretty and you’re smart. God made a work of art,”

As far as musicality goes, “Beautiful Things” is also expertly done. The entire song carries a bittersweet tone and has a soft tempo, much like a comforting lullaby. Additionally, Moroney’s voice in this song is authentically raw, adding to the idea that she is speaking from the heart. For its beautiful message and well-arranged instrumentation, “Beautiful Things” was an easy 3rd place.

2. “Change of Heart”

“Change of Heart” is an incredibly fun listen and is perhaps one of the best examples of Moroney’s creative songwriting. The lyrics describe being torn between anger and sympathy towards an ex-boyfriend, and the instrumentation itself is an actual manifestation of this. The verses are slow and ballad-like, reminiscing on aspects of their relationship in a sarcastic way, such as in the line, “It’s gotta be hard to get caught lying. Maybe it’s all my fault I caught you with her.” The choruses, in contrast, are angry and chant-like, boasting strong electric guitars and heavy drums.

It is always fun when the music of a song mirrors the message, and Moroney’s change-ups or “Changes of Heart” are all reflected by the instruments in the background. This is a great song when you’re feeling divided, and a great one to sing along to.

1. “Wish I Didn’t”

“Wish I Didn’t” stuck out to me for its clean melody, pop-centric instrumentation, and fun, upbeat vibe. Towards the end of this album, this song talks about new love and warns a new boyfriend not to make Moroney regret falling for him. (“Please Please Please” by Sabrina Carpenter, anyone?)

While the message is clear, and the lyrics are well-written, my favorite part of this song is simply the joy radiating from it. If I had to choose one song off this album to listen to while getting ready with friends, this would certainly be my first choice. It is certainly the light at the end of the tunnel of this album, and a song about new beginnings. For its fun melody, strong rhythm, and upbeat lyrics, this is my favorite song off Moroney’s new album.

Whether your own personal ranking of the “Cloud 9” songs aligns with mine or not, Moroney fans far and wide can agree that her newest album played to her strengths of genuine heartfelt lyrics, intentional musicality, and her signature meshing of country and pop styles.