American Idol Winner Scotty McCreery Releases New Music Video for ‘Bottle Rockets’ Featuring Hootie & The Blowfish

Scotty McCreery has just released the official music video for his summer anthem “Bottle Rockets,” featuring legendary band Hootie & the Blowfish. The video dropped on September 19 and immediately struck a nostalgic chord with fans, capturing the spirit of long summer nights on the Carolina coast.

A Nostalgic Summer Collaboration

“Bottle Rockets” first appeared in May on Scotty’s EP Scooter & Friends, but the collaboration with Hootie & the Blowfish has now reached a new level with this visual release. In the song, Hootie & the Blowfish recorded a fresh version of the chorus from their 1994 hit “Hold My Hand,” blending it seamlessly into Scotty’s track. This marked the very first collaboration between Scotty and the South Carolina–based quartet led by Darius Rucker.

Scotty, a proud North Carolina native, explained that the track was inspired by reminiscing on youthful summers, the soundtracks that defined them, and the unforgettable nights on the Carolina coast.

Inside the “Bottle Rockets” Music Video

The music video opens on the beach, where Scotty McCreery and Hootie & the Blowfish gather around a fire pit with guitars and drinks in hand. Filmed in a polished 8mm throwback style with motion blur, the visuals perfectly capture the feeling of memories being lived in the moment.

As the video progresses, Scotty and Darius toss a football along the shoreline, before the group lights fireworks and launches them into the sea. The imagery, combined with the heartfelt lyrics, makes the video feel like a timeless summer memory brought to life.

Chart Performance and Fan Reception

“Bottle Rockets” has already proven to be a hit on the airwaves. The song reached No. 4 on Billboard’s U.S. Country Airplay chart in May and was sitting at No. 18 as of September 13.

When the single was first released, Hootie & the Blowfish posted on social media:

“We’re so excited to be a part of Scotty McCreery’s new summer jam!”

Scotty himself admitted he was “nervous” to reach out to Darius Rucker about incorporating Hold My Hand, but he was thrilled when Rucker quickly responded that he loved the idea.

Why Fans Love “Bottle Rockets”

This collaboration bridges generations of country and rock fans. With Hootie & the Blowfish’s iconic 90s nostalgia and Scotty’s modern country sound, the track feels like a celebration of summertime, friendship, and the power of music to connect across decades.

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