Country Artists Share What They’re Grateful For | Thanksgiving Special

Along with the video messages, several artists shared written reflections to express their gratitude.

Malachi Gagnon shared, “I’m beyond thankful for my family and close friends who have helped me stay confident in and pursue my music! I’m also so thankful for the people who listen to my music and make my dreams possible. Without them, I wouldn’t be here and where I am is such a blessing!”

John Michael Ferrari also expressed his gratitude. “In my world, appreciation is the key to happiness. I wake up thankful for another day and with the hope I will do something positive with it. Thanksgiving is the holiday to give thanks and be grateful. I’m grateful for my family and friends, my health, and for my peaceful surroundings. I am particularly pleased that I have the ability to share with others that are not as blessed as I am; not just during the holidays, but as a way of life.” He continued, “Our Thanksgiving table should always include someone with no “table” to go to that day. But mostly, it is my partner and music producer Pepper Jay and the music that God has placed in my life that have saved me. Writing and creating music is a blessing. And, now, I am specifically grateful for the extraordinary technology that is available to me.”

Photo credit: Gregg Roth

Joe Nichols has earned recognition as a three-time GRAMMY nominee and has taken home some of country music’s most coveted honors, including the ACM’s “Top New Male Vocalist” award, CMT’s “Breakthrough Video of the Year,” and the CMA’s esteemed “Horizon Award.” With over two billion combined audio streams and views, his impressive career features six chart-topping singles and ten Top 10 hits.

Inspired by his new album, Honky Tonks and Country Songs, Nichols will host two Honky Tonk Holidays™ radio specials, for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Both specials are three-hour programs that are expected to air on more than 500 local radio stations across the country. Check local guides for details.   

Photo credit: Ford Fairchild

Runaway June features the dynamic trio of Jennifer Wayne (vocals, rhythm guitar), Natalie Stovall (vocals, fiddle, mandolin), and Stevie Woodward (lead vocals, guitar, harmonica). Their GOLD-certified hit, “Buy My Own Drinks,” made history as the first Top 5 single by a female trio on the Country Aircheck/Mediabase charts since The Chicks achieved the milestone in 2003.

Their latest release, a holiday duo titled “Mary, Did You Know?” and “Santa, Send Your Reindeer,” showcases both a stunning rendition of a beloved Christmas favorite and a playful, festive original. Produced by six-time GRAMMY-winning producer Ron Fair, these tracks bring the spirit of the season to life.

Photo credit: Ford Fairchild

Nate Barnes, signed to Quartz Hill Records, made a strong entrance onto the country music scene with his debut single, “You Ain’t Pretty,” which became the #1 Most Added Song by a debut artist at U.S. Country Radio (Mediabase) and climbed into the Top 40.

His latest releases include a lively rendition of the holiday favorite “Jingle Bell Rock” and the cinematic love song “Something Else Tonight,” a track from his highly anticipated full-length debut album. Set for release in early 2025, the album is being crafted by acclaimed producers Mickey Jack Cones (Joe Nichols, Blake Shelton), Derek George (Randy Houser), and Ilya Toshinskiy (Jelly Roll).

Photo credit: Riker Brothers

Spencer Hatcher, a bluegrass-influenced country artist, joined the Stone Country Records roster in Nashville in October 2024. His recent releases showcase his traditional country roots, including Cold Beer and Common Sense, a trio of songs featuring the upbeat title track, “Has Anybody Ever,” and “This Town,” all produced by Jason Sellers, Ilya Toshinskiy (Jelly Roll), and Mickey Jack Cones (Joe Nichols).

Hatcher also brought fresh life to the holiday season with “Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus,” a duet with acclaimed country artist Aubrie Sellers. This reimagining of the George Jones and Tammy Wynette classic was written by Earl Montgomery and Dallas Frazier and produced by Jason Sellers and Ilya Toshinskiy.

Photo by Libby Danforth

California native and Spinville Entertainment artist Ashley Ryan is quickly making her mark on Nashville’s music scene. Her journey into songwriting began at 16, inspired by an early love of poetry and a meaningful gift from her grandfather—a guitar that set her creativity in motion.

Ryan’s latest single, “Better Than Leavin’,” is a bold, high-energy anthem blending raw emotion with fiery attitude. Co-written by Ryan, Larry McCoy (also the track’s producer), and Neal Coty, the song highlights her powerhouse vocals and vibrant sass while diving into the universal struggle of navigating relationships, even when sticking it out feels like the best choice.

Photo by Jen Wood

No. 1 Billboard-charting artist Lucas Hoge seamlessly blends his talents as a singer, songwriter, television host, and outdoorsman. As the host of Hoge Wild on the Sportsman Channel, Heartland Network, and American Country Network, he reaches over 155 million households annually, taking viewers on adventures around the globe. Hoge also co-founded the Belize Songwriter Festival, bringing Nashville songwriters to Hopkins, Belize, for an unforgettable two-day celebration each May.

With his signature baritone and heartfelt storytelling, Hoge is gearing up for a big 2025 with the release of Book About Me, his first full-length album since topping the Billboard charts. The lead single, “When A Cowboy Prays,” features Yellowstone actor Forrie J. Smith and delves into the role of faith in cowboy culture. As the holidays near, Hoge’s latest release, a soulful rendition of “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” produced by Kent Wells (Dolly Parton), offers a fresh yet timeless take on the beloved classic.

JD Shelburne, a Kentucky native, continues to make waves in country music with the release of his latest single, “Cars and Trucks,” from his current album Neon Hallelujah. Co-written by Jeremy Bussey, Jayce Hein, and Jason Duke, the track captures Shelburne’s signature sound. Additionally, we had the privilege of premiering his stunning version of “O Holy Night.”

Having performed over 3,000 shows and shared the stage with legendary artists like ZZ Top, JD Shelburne’s career is nothing short of impressive. He’s worked with the iconic Oak Ridge Boys and seen major success on platforms like CMT, with seven music videos, including the chart-topping hit “Church Pew Barstool.”

Photo credit: Gregg Roth

Ben Gallaher, a dynamic singer, songwriter, and guitarist signed to Stone Country Records, continues to showcase his musical prowess with his latest releases. A self-taught musician inspired by legendary guitarists, Gallaher’s music reflects his roots in Camp Hill, Pennsylvania, weaving personal stories into lyric-driven country anthems.

His recent release, “Carol of the Strings,” offers a thrilling guitar instrumental that reimagines the beloved holiday classic “Carol of the Bells,” originally composed by Mykola Leontovych in 1914. Arranged, performed, and produced entirely by Gallaher, this rendition is a must-listen. He’s also released “Cuts Like a Knife,” a standout cover of Bryan Adams’ iconic hit, produced by Neil Thrasher and Patrick Thrasher. Showcasing his reverence for the guitar, Gallaher performs every part, including the song’s legendary solo.

Photo Credit : Ranger Visual

Shari Rowe, a Southwestern storyteller with a touch of Southern grace, channels her passion for faith, family, and giving back into her music. Beyond her artistry, she serves as a Celebrity Ambassador for the Scott Foundation and the Red Note Foundation, using her platform to inspire and uplift others.

Her latest single, “Last Time,” showcases her range as a songwriter. This cinematic, ’90s country-inspired track dives headfirst into the tension between risk and regret, delivering a powerful and emotional listening experience. “Last Time” is available now.

Emerging singer-songwriter Malachi Gagnon is a 17-year-old with a deep connection to his small-town roots in New Hampshire. His musical journey began in the church worship band, where he first discovered his love for singing and songwriting. Raised on small-town values and inspired by his family’s unwavering support, Malachi found the confidence to pursue his dreams long before ever picking up his first guitar. “When I was 12, I sang out loud for the first time in front of my family during an impromptu living room talent show,” Malachi recalls. The next day, his dad took him to the music store and bought him his first Taylor guitar.

Malachi’s latest releases, “Stay” and “Reason to Live,” showcase his natural talent for storytelling through song, offering a glimpse into the heart of this rising country artist.

John Michael Ferrari is a talented singer-songwriter and performer known for his captivating stage presence. With a deep belief that there are no strangers in the audience, John Michael shares his heartfelt, emotional songs about life’s experiences with both sophistication and a sense of childlike wonder. His latest single, “Music with You,” is a tribute to his audience, expressing the love and connection he feels through his music. Passionate about songwriting, he creates emotional, story-driven songs that resonate with listeners. For John Michael, there’s no place he’d rather be than on stage, doing what he loves most.

Trey Calloway, a North Carolina native now based in Nashville, has been immersed in music since childhood, performing in church and taking the stage regularly by the age of ten. Since mid-2023, Calloway’s career has soared, earning him the Songwriter of the Year title at the Texas Country Music Awards, a featured music video spot on CMT, placement on Spotify editorial playlists, and nearly a million streams on Spotify alone.

His latest single, “Christmas with You,” highlights his warm, resonant voice and gift for storytelling. The heartfelt track blends the traditional sounds of the holiday season with the universal emotion of longing for a loved one during Christmastime.

Calloway is also celebrating the release of his album Wanted Man, a nine-track collection that channels the essence of ’90s country with a fresh, modern twist. The project solidifies his ability to honor tradition while forging his own unique path in country music.

Photo credit: Riker Brothers

Annie Bosko, inspired by classic country and The Beatles, began singing at just five years old and discovered her passion for songwriting as a teenager. Known for infusing themes of vulnerability and empowerment into her music, Bosko uses her voice to uplift and connect.

Her recent duet with multi-Platinum artist Joe Nichols, “Better Than You,” is a smoldering powerhouse ballad that became a top 5 most-added song at country radio for four consecutive weeks. Adding to her impressive catalog, the California native has released a heartfelt rendition of “Silent Night,” featuring a tender vocal performance set against an intimate acoustic arrangement with strings.