The song appears on his upcoming album Anthem
Country hitmaker Jason Michael Carroll releases his stirring new single “What Ever Happened to Heroes,” a song that challenges listeners to reflect on the state of justice, courage, and morality in today’s world. The track is available now on all streaming platforms and is one of the standout songs from his forthcoming album Anthem, due later this year via For the Lonely Records. It is the powerful follow-up to his genre-blending anthem “Nothin’ But Country” featuring Petey Pablo, whose video was released this week as well.
Written by Carroll and Garrett Bradford, the song began when Bradford, a fellow Texas-born artist and friend, sent Carroll a few lyrical ideas and told him to “pick one.” Carroll was immediately drawn to the title “What Ever Happened to Heroes.”
“This one stopped me in my tracks,” Carroll shares. “I don’t watch the news much anymore because the state of the world often depresses me. Where’s the justice? Where’s the accountability? What happened to right and wrong? What happened to common sense? Whatever happened to heroes?”
With vivid western-inspired storytelling and a melody that builds from quiet reflection to cinematic intensity, “What Ever Happened to Heroes” speaks to the longing for integrity and courage in uncertain times. Through heartfelt verses and a rousing chorus, Carroll revives the spirit of the classic cowboy hero, then challenges us all to become the heroes we’re missing.
“I still like to think that the cowboys are holed up, bandaging wounds, making plans to return… One of these nights, they’ll ride in, clouds of gun smoke, giving those bad guys what they deserve.”
The release follows the success of “Nothin’ But Country,” a bold, pride-fueled track that bridges rural grit and hip-hop swagger—uniting two North Carolina natives to celebrate the roots that shaped them. The newly released music video for “Nothin’ But Country” brings that anthem to life with energy, attitude, and undeniable Southern pride.
Together, the two singles set the stage for Carroll’s forthcoming album Anthem, a deeply personal collection exploring faith, family, and resilience through his signature storytelling.
The song captures the honesty and grit that have long defined Carroll’s career. Since breaking out with his chart-topping debut album Waitin’ in the Country, which featured hits like “Alyssa Lies” and “Livin’ Our Love Song,” Carroll has become known for his fearless storytelling and heartfelt authenticity. With Anthem, he continues to evolve, proving that country music’s heart still beats strongest in stories of truth, grit, and hope.
