Celebrate the Heart of Country, Americana, and Roots Music!

Drop Us A Line, Y'all

Y'all interested in advertising, partnering up, contributing stories, joining our team, or just got a question? Well, don't be shy, drop us a line!

Follow Us

Dive in Heartbreak and Melodic Embers with “World On Fire” by Nate Smith

World On Fire by Nate Smith
by
  • Riley is a Senior Country Music Journalist for Country Thang Daily, known for her engaging storytelling and insightful coverage of the genre.
  • Before joining Country Thang Daily, Riley developed her expertise at Billboard and People magazine, focusing on feature stories and music reviews.
  • Riley has a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Belmont University, with a minor in Cultural Studies.

On June 5, 2023, country music singer Nate Smith released “World on Fire” as the second single from his self-titled debut album. 

So many connected with the catchy, rock-inspired country heartbreaker that it went to No. 1 on Billboard’s Country Airplay chart while peaking at No. 8 on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart. It also ranked No. 1 in Canada’s country chart.

Meaning Behind The Song 

Written by Nate Smith alongside Lindsay Rimes, Ashley Gorley, and Taylor Phillips, “World on Fire” tells the story of a man who can’t escape memories of a love gone wrong. The woman he loves called it quits, leaving him feeling like his heart was ripped out of his chest and ruining everything around him in his hometown – including his favorite bar.

The song came to life during a songwriting session. Taylor Phillips, the creative mind behind the song name “World on Fire,” also dedicates time as a volunteer firefighter in North Carolina. 

RELATED: 10 Country Songs About Fire If You Feel The Burning Desire To Say Something

He used the phrase “world on fire” to recount a tragedy at a construction site where he helped put out a blaze. He had kept that phrase on his phone for so long and later began thinking about a heart-wrenching break-up.

“You know, you’re not just leaving that person,” Phillips said about the inspiration for the song. “You’re taking the whole town with you, leaving memories everywhere.” 

Soon enough, the group turned ashes into lyrical gold.

Nate Smith, on the other hand, lost his home in 2018 following a wildfire that happened in his hometown of Paradise, California. This wildfire holds the tragic record for being the deadliest and causing the most devastation in the history of California. The tragedy inspired him to write songs with fire themes, such as “Wildfire” and “One of These Days.”

So, embark on a sonic journey that ignites your senses and sets your world ablaze with Nate Smith’s mesmerizing song “World on Fire” – click play and let the rhythm light up your soul!

Latest Stories

Martina McBride did not call Beyoncé a 'clown in a cowboy hat'; the viral claim is false and has no evidence to support it.

Martina McBride Never Called Beyoncé a “Clown in a Cowboy Hat”

Social media has a way of turning fiction into fact overnight, and the latest victim of misinformation is country legend Martina McBride. A viral claim has been circulating that McBride ...

Chris Stapleton did not object to Beyoncé’s country Grammy win, dismissing rumors of controversy over her Cowboy Carter victory.

No, Chris Stapleton Did Not Object to Beyoncé’s Grammy Win

Rumor has spread that Chris Stapleton filed an “official objection” after Beyoncé won Best Country Album at the 2025 Grammys for Cowboy Carter. A supposed quote attributed to him suggests ...

Blake Shelton to host the Grand Ole Opry's 100th celebration, honoring a century of country music with star-studded performances.

Blake Shelton Set to Host Grand Ole Opry’s 100th Celebration

Country music’s most legendary stage is set for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. Blake Shelton is taking the reins. The Grand Ole Opry will mark its 100th anniversary with a star-studded NBC ...

Dolly Parton fights to save her Imagination Library in Indiana after budget cuts threaten its vital funding for children's literacy.

Dolly Parton Fights to Save Imagination Library in Indiana

Dolly Parton has always stood up for what she believes in—lifting people’s spirits with her music, funding major charitable efforts, and ensuring children have access to books, no matter their ...

Billy Currington maintains a private personal life, sparking speculation about his sexuality, though no public statement or evidence confirms the rumors.

Is Billy Currington Gay? What We Know About the Country Star

Billy Currington has spent decades serenading country music fans with hits like “People Are Cr𝐚zy” and “Must Be Doin’ Somethin’ Right.” His smooth vocals, laid-back charm, and undeniable talent have ...

Post Malone and Alan Jackson pose together, bridging generations of country music with their iconic styles and shared respect for the genre.

Post Malone’s Road to Country Music Started Long Ago

Post Malone didn’t just wake up one morning and decide to go country—he’s been headed down this dirt road for a long time. From his Texas roots to his early ...

Drake sparks speculation about a country music crossover, potentially releasing a country album and exploring a new genre.

Is Drake the Next Artist to Take Over Country Music?

Country music has been through a wave of change lately, and not everyone is convinced it’s for the better. Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter shook the industry, bringing country into the mainstream ...

Riley Green's 'Worst Way' music video sparks a frenzy with steamy scenes and a touch of humor, making waves in the country music world.

Riley Green Turns Up the Heat in Worst Way Music Video

Riley Green isn’t holding back in his latest music video for “Worst Way,” and fans are feeling some kind of way about it. Known for his rugged country charm and ...

Meet Lainey Wilson's fiancé, Devlin 'Duck' Hodges—former NFL quarterback and avid duck hunter—who captured the country star's heart.

Who Is Devlin ‘Duck’ Hodges? Meet Lainey Wilson’s Fiancé

Lainey Wilson is one of the biggest stars in country music right now. Still, behind the scenes, she has a steady and supportive partner in her fiancé, Devlin “Duck” Hodges. ...

Lainey Wilson announces her engagement to Devlin 'Duck' Hodges, sharing romantic proposal photos that celebrate their new chapter together.

Lainey Wilson Is Engaged to Former NFL Star Duck Hodges

Lainey Wilson has a lot to celebrate—her career is on fire, she’s gearing up for a massive world tour, and now, she’s engaged to her longtime boyfriend, former NFL quarterback ...