Megan Moroney came out pretty in pink to celebrate the much-anticipated release of ‘Cloud 9‘ at Raising Cane’s in Times Square.
To kick off her newest project, the ACM and CMA winner surprised fans with a pop-up listening party at the global flagship location in the heart of New York City. Known for hits like “Tennessee Orange” and “Am I Okay?,” the country music star rose to prominence in 2023 with her debut record “Lucky.” After recently honoring the album’s announcement at a Cane’s in Athens, GA, the pink-and-glittery store takeover felt full circle to fans who came out in the signature color to cheer her on across the nation.
“My favorite thing about the Cane’s partnership is that it’s just so organic,” the singer stated at the event. “My Twitter bio literally used to be ‘Can I please get a three finger combo with extra Canes sauce?’”
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – FEBRUARY 20: Megan Moroney poses with fans as she surprises them with a listening event at Raising Cane’s Times Square Global Flagship to celebrate Cloud 9 release at Raising Cane’s Times Square on February 20, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for Raising Cane’s)
Her affiliation with Cane’s goes far past a personal love for the food. Both Moroney and the restaurant’s founder, Todd Graves, attended the University of Georgia, and both share a similar passion for the Cane’s ONE LOVE® philosophy. Since then, Graves and Sophia Graves have been supportive of blending the beloved country sound with Cane’s Craveable Chicken Finger Meals. From listening parties to meet and greets, it is a passion for music and food that keeps the magic sparkling on.
“I love Todd. I love his story,” Moroney said. “He’s very hardworking and kind.”
The day got even more exciting as fans — some who had been waiting outside in the rain before dawn – received free posters, vinyl records and hats upon arrival. As Moroney strutted behind the restaurant’s front counter, the room erupted with excited screams.
“Has everybody listened so far?” Moroney beamed with a smile to the room. “This is my favorite album I’ve ever made. It’s got a little bit of everything.”
“Cloud 9,” which marks Moroney’s third studio album, showcases the singer at her most confident and self-assured. Featuring singles like “6 Months Later” and “Beautiful Things,” the album leans into the highs of falling in love and personal growth.
“It was just so effortless, I didn’t overthink anything,” Moroney shared about the creative process. “I didn’t try to make it check any boxes. I just was being myself the entire way through.”
The singer emphasized the importance of the two major collaborations on the album, which feature Kacey Musgraves and Ed Sheeran. She cited Musgraves’ “Same Trailer Different Park” album as a large inspiration for making her own albums, and noted how she was excited for fans to hear the more traditional country song “I Only Miss You,” with Sheeran.
The party continued as the artist graciously took photos with patient fans who waited in a line wrapped around the restaurant. She signed everything from posters to guitars, listening closely to each visitor who came to share stories about what her music means to them.
Raising Cane’s, which has collaborated with celebrities from Post Malone to Snoop Dogg, proved a fitting venue for Moroney’s event.. The Times Square hotspot quickly rolled out hot meals for everyone to enjoy. Fans also got the first glimpse of displays supporting “Cloud 9” which will roll out across 900+ Raising Cane’s across the country.
“The last time I came to Times Square with my family, I tried to get Cane’s, but the line was too long,” Moroney said while laughing. “I know that I’m going to be able to get some chicken today…I have the cuisine of the city, and I choose to order Cane’s.”
Even after Moroney exited, the enthusiasm for “Cloud 9” lingered as fans reveled in their new autographed merchandise and selfies, marking a perfectly pink Friday morning they won’t forget.
