Few acts in modern country music have made quite the splash that Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney — better known as Dan + Shay — have over the past decade. From heartfelt ballads to radio-dominating anthems, the duo has built a catalog that resonates with fans far beyond the traditional country base.

How Dan + Shay Rose to the Top

Signed to Warner Music Nashville, Dan + Shay burst onto the scene in 2013 with their debut single “19 You + Me,” a breezy, nostalgic love song that immediately set them apart from the pack. Their knack for blending polished pop production with genuine emotional storytelling quickly earned them a loyal following and the attention of the country music establishment.

Over the years, the duo has racked up multiple Grammy Awards, ACM Awards, and CMA Awards, cementing their place among country music’s elite. Their crossover appeal — particularly with younger audiences — has helped bring new listeners into the genre, something the industry has taken notice of.

Songs That Define Their Legacy

Any honest conversation about Dan + Shay’s best work has to start with “Tequila” (2018), a stunning, stripped-back ballad that showcased their vocal chemistry and earned them a Grammy for Best Country Duo/Group Performance. It remains one of the most-streamed country songs of its era.

“10,000 Hours”, their 2019 collaboration with Justin Bieber, became a global phenomenon, crossing over into pop charts worldwide and introducing millions of new fans to their sound. The song’s warm, reassuring message about lifelong love resonated in a way few country crossovers ever have.

• “19 You + Me” — the debut that started it all
• “From the Ground Up” — a fan-favorite wedding staple
• “Tequila” — Grammy-winning perfection
• “All to Myself” — a feel-good summer anthem
• “10,000 Hours” (feat. Justin Bieber) — their biggest crossover moment
• “I Should Probably Go to Bed” — a relatable late-night love song
• “Glad You Exist” — a heartfelt pandemic-era release
• “How Not To” — silky smooth country pop at its finest
• “Early Morning Conversation” — a deep cut fans adore
• “Dance With Me Tonight” — a newer track that signals more good things ahead

Why They Matter to Country Music

Critics occasionally debate whether Dan + Shay lean too far into pop territory, but that conversation may miss the point. Their willingness to push boundaries has expanded what country music can sound like in the streaming age, and their vocal harmonies — genuinely impressive by any standard — keep them grounded in the genre’s traditions.

According to fan communities online, the duo’s live performances have only grown more compelling over time, with reports suggesting their headlining shows sell out quickly across the country. Whether you’re a lifelong country fan or a newcomer drawn in by a viral hit, there’s something in the Dan + Shay catalog worth your time.

As they continue releasing new music and evolving their sound, one thing seems clear: Dan + Shay aren’t going anywhere — and country music is better for it.