Country Artists to Watch in 2024

Get ready to discover the next wave of country music talent! Our carefully curated list of Country Artists to Watch in 2024 features an exciting mix of new country singers and rising country stars who are poised to make a major impact on the scene. From emerging country artists with fresh perspectives to rising country stars who are blending traditional sounds with modern influences, this year’s crop of talent is sure to impress.

Whether you’re a seasoned country music fan or just starting to explore the genre, these upcoming country artists are worth keeping an eye on. So, grab your headphones and get ready to discover your new favorite country acts.

Don’t forget to follow our Country Artists to Watch playlist for the latest music from these talented artists.

And remember, we’re always on the lookout for the next generation of new country singers. If you know of any up-and-coming country artists who deserve recognition, let us know! We’re already looking ahead to 2025 and can’t wait to see who will make the list of Country Artists to Watch next year.

Past Artists to Watch

• 2023
• 2022
• 2021
• 2020

Jason Benoit

From Fox Island River, Newfoundland (population 200), Jason Benoit’s music career thrives regardless of his humble roots. A 2023 Canadian Country Music Association “Alternative Country Album of the Year” Nominee, he’s a CCMA, ECMA, and MusicNL Award winner with 4 Top 30 hits. His self-penned GOLD certified Top 10 single ‘Gone Long Gone’ amassed over 12 million global streams. Benoit shares stages with country icons like Tenille Townes, Tim Hicks, and Old Dominion. He hosted Cavendish Beach Music Festival’s Songwriter’s Circle in 2023 and now hosts “That’s Country” on 100.1 BayFM, Corner Brook, Newfoundland. Benoit embodies Canadian Country Music’s spirit.

Autumn Brooke

Autumn Brooke, the East Tennessee songstress, burst onto the country scene as a new country singer with her debut track, “Hate This Town.” Paying homage to the cowboy lifestyle, she continued her musical journey with the timeless “Hey Cowboy.” Infusing her songs with a sultry touch, she narrates tales of whiskey shots, honky-tonkin’, and unfiltered truths. Raised on the essence of country music, Autumn Brooke finds her inspiration in the soul of Red Dirt and Outlaw country.

Jake Bush

Jake Bush just released “Good Time Machine,” showcasing Nashville’s traditional country sound. Raised in Pasadena, Texas, music was his solace after losing his mother. Influenced by ’90s icons, he served in the Army Reserves before launching his music career. His 2020 album 7 produced three consecutive Texas chart-toppers amid the pandemic. In 2022, “Where 90s Meets Now” continued his success with hits like “Tractor Town” and “Cowgirl.” Bush’s journey resonates through heartfelt melodies and chart-topping singles.

Dillon Carmichael

Hailing from Burgin, Kentucky, Dillon Carmichael made waves in 2018 with his acclaimed Riser House debut, “Hell On An Angel,” produced by Dave Cobb. Praised for his “deep holler” by NPR and hailed by the New York Times for a voice that moves “with the heft and certainty of a tractor-trailer,” he shared stages with Lynyrd Skynyrd, Trace Adkins, Dwight Yoakam, and Justin Moore. In 2021, he followed up with “Son Of A,” amassing over 13 million streams and earning rave reviews for its blend of humor and raw heart. The album’s title track, debuting as the #1 most-added single at country radio, is on its way to a million YouTube plays, climbing the charts. In 2022, Carmichael continues his journey, headlining the ‘Son Of A’ Tour and sharing stages with Brooks & Dunn, Cody Johnson, Brothers Osborne, and more.

The Castellows

Neo-Traditional Country trio, The Castellows, redefine “family tradition” with sisters Ellie (lead guitar), Powell (banjo), and Lily (vocals). From rural Georgetown, Georgia, now calling Nashville home, their harmonies create a singular, angelic voice. Their debut EP, “A Little Goes A Long Way,” drops on February 9, 2024, featuring six self-penned tracks. Signed with Warner Music Nashville & Warner Records in 2023 under producer Trina Shoemaker, they make waves on 2024 ‘Watch Lists’ and embark on a 21-city tour eight days post-release. The Castellows are just getting started and are definitely country artists to watch.

Jade Eagleson

Jade Eagleson, the international country sensation, amassed 285+ million global streams and 115M+ YouTube views since his 2020 debut. With four GOLD and two PLATINUM-certified singles, Jade holds the title for the most globally streamed debut album by an internationally-signed country artist. On Canadian Country Radio, he secured four #1s, two CCMA Awards, and three GOLD-certified tracks on his sophomore album, along with the PLATINUM-certified “She Don’t Know.” His debut single, “Got Your Name On It,” marked a groundbreaking achievement for a Canadian-signed artist, going PLATINUM with over 85 million views. In 2023, Jade won a JUNO nomination, CCMA Awards for Entertainer of the Year and Male Artist of the Year, and released his third studio album, “Do It Anyway.”

Wyatt Flores

Mexican-American troubadour Wyatt Flores, born in Oklahoma, infuses his gritty country sound with old memories, loved ones’ ghosts, and dreams of a brighter future. Influenced by Turnpike Troubadours, Tyler Childers, and Jason Isbell, his unfiltered storytelling captures life’s essence. Leaving OSU during COVID, he worked on a ranch, crafting hits like “Travelin’ Kid” and “Please Don’t Go,” leading to The Hutson Sessions EP. Tracks like “Break My Bones” and “Ain’t Proud” earned millions of streams and a deal with Island Records. The title track of “Life Lessons” embodies his non-conformist outlook, urging a life fully lived. Wyatt’s music, symbolizing personal evolution, reflects his journey and growth.

Waylon Hanel

Waylon Hanel, a self-taught musician from Michigan, charms audiences with his textured vocals and captivating storytelling. Inspired by Waylon Jennings, he crafts a vintage signature style. His debut EP (Nov. 2022) and sophomore CD, “NEW OLD OUTLAWS” (May 2023), showcase his artistic depth. The bonus track, “New Old Outlaws Rewind,” hit No. 54 on the MusicRow Breakout Chart. With his second single, “He Don’t Mind,” released to country radio in June 2023, Waylon’s momentum grows. In just five years, he’s shared stages with Uncle Kracker, Travis Tritt, and others, played over 75 shows in 2023 and has an ambitious 2024 tour ahead.

Clay Hollis

Clay Hollis, born in the Rio Grande Valley and raised in San Antonio, is a Texas-native with music coursing through his veins from a young age. Starting his journey at seventeen, Clay ventured into music while selling merchandise for Jon Wolfe on tour. In 2017, his debut EP, co-written with Nashville hitmakers like Bart Butler and Jon Pardi, spawned four top ten singles. With his guitar in hand, Clay graced honky-tonks across Texas. In 2020, “Honkytonk Highway” showcased his vocals and love for honky-tonk guitars. Now, his inaugural full-length album, “No Apologies,” features 11 tracks, eight of which he co-wrote, offering a personal narrative into Clay Hollis’s life.

Zandi Holup

Born in Pennsylvania and now thriving in Nashville, Zandi Holup is an evocative artist with a wildflower spirit, echoing legends like Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, and Joni Mitchell. Her raw folk country, akin to Dolly Parton, weaves emotive vocals and unfiltered storytelling. Six years into her Nashville journey, Holup’s grassroots following catapulted her with demos and unreleased songs resonating across social media. The single “Wait for You” hit No. 1 on Spotify Fresh Finds, accumulating over a million streams solely from her TikTok following. Opening for icons like Steve Earle and Ann Wilson, she earned recognition as a 2023 Artist to Watch by The Nashville Briefing. Signing with Arthouse Entertainment, TurnTable Music, and Big Loud Records in 2023, her first label release, “Gas Station Flowers,” is out now.

Ryan Larkins

Nashville native Ryan Larkins, bitten by the music bug in his pre-teens, embarked on his songwriting journey at 12. Cultivating a distinctive baritone, he showcased his talent weekly at his home church, catching the attention of Nashville’s music community and securing a publishing deal with Sony Music Publishing. Rooted in traditional country, blended with gospel, pop, and R&B influences, Ryan’s original sound attracted industry luminaries. Collaborating with legends like Tony Lane, Tom Douglas, and Country Music Hall of Famer Bill Anderson, he earned his first Grammy nomination for co-writing “Someday It’ll All Make Sense,” a duet with Dolly Parton. Ryan’s songwriting prowess extends to cuts by Tim McGraw and Cody Johnson. With a journey marked by creativity and recognition, he continues making waves in the Nashville music scene.

Carter Lybrand

In mid-state South Carolina, Carter Lybrand’s country music journey began, inspired by his talented grandparents. A soldier in Iraq, his singing prowess earned him recognition. Since 2019, he’s graced dance halls nationwide, opening for John Anderson, Chris Lane, and others. His debut single, “I’ll Be Right Here,” surged on Texas radio charts. The music video highlights a veteran’s battle with addiction. Committed to mental health, Carter aims to make a difference.

Walker Montgomery

Walker Montgomery is a rising singer/songwriter crafting his own legacy. The son of John Michael Montgomery and nephew of Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry, emerged from Nicholasville, Kentucky, away from the spotlight. Signed to Play It Again Entertainment and produced by The Peach Pickers, he’s already made an impact with the self-penned hit “Simple Town” (over 4 Million Spotify streams). With singles like “Like My Daddy Done It” and “Saving For A Rainy Night,” Montgomery, guided by his family’s wisdom, aims for timeless music that resonates universally. Committed to lyrical honesty and a lived-in sound, he aspires to connect with people and uphold the family name.

Catie Offerman

Catie Offerman, a rising star in country music, graduated from Berklee College of Music at 19 and quickly gained recognition in Nashville’s music scene. Hailing from a horse ranch in Texas, she mastered multiple instruments, from accordion to fiddle. After declining an L.A.-based record deal, Catie found her true self in Nashville. Her publishing deal with Universal Music Group Publishing expanded her song catalog, leading to a record deal with Universal Music Group Nashville. During the pandemic, she collaborated with renowned producer Dann Huff, resulting in her debut track, “Happyland Trailer Park,” a whimsical exploration of life’s uncertainties. Catie’s mature and authentic debut reflects her Texas roots and musical prowess, positioning her as a promising modern traditionalist in the country genre.

Vinnie Paolizzi

Philly native turned Nashvillian, Vinnie Paolizzi, is a versatile singer-songwriter making waves in rock and country. From playing with Brittney Spencer to rounds with Dean Dillon, he’s a live performance standout. May’s release, “Proud of What I Did Today,” signaled his readiness for a bigger stage. His self-titled album, released November 2023, unveils Nashville’s trailblazing community. Produced by Mike Harris, it features co-writers like Meg McRee and Adam Hood. Beyond music, Paolizzi champions community with events like “Fam Jam.” Descending from Italian immigrants, he values collaboration over solo success. His record not only introduces him but also reflects Nashville’s thriving creative spirit, promising a future filled with musical brilliance.

Brit Taylor

Brit Taylor, the unyielding country artist, broke from conventions, forging her path. Her debut album, “Real Me,” swiftly climbed the charts, hailed for its authenticity and compelling lyrics. The breakout success continued with her sophomore album, “Kentucky Blue,” produced by Sturgill Simpson and David Ferguson, hitting No. 4 on the Bluegrass albums Billboard chart. Taylor’s journey, from the Kentucky mountains to Nashville’s challenges, shaped her resilient spirit. She overcame setbacks, leaving the “new Nashville” to craft music on her terms. Brit Taylor, with her refreshingly simple yet complex songs, emerges as a true, authentic force in country music.

Zach Top

Zach Top breathes new life into country music’s ‘90s spirit, channeling George Strait, Keith Whitley, and Randy Travis. Hailing from Sunnyside, Washington, and raised on a ranch, he embraces classic vibes reminiscent of Texas dancehalls and rodeo roars. For Zach, old-school country, with Marty Robbins’ cassette as childhood soundtrack, feels contemporary. At seven, he formed Top String, a bluegrass band with siblings, later playing with Modern Tradition, winners of the 2017 SPBGMA international band competition. In 2021, his Honky-Tonk dreams brought him to Nashville, securing a publishing deal with Major Bob Music. Recognized as an artist to watch, Zach debuted his country single, “Cold Beer & Country Music,” at the Grand Ole Opry, marking a promising journey from ranch life to the heart of country.

Stephen Wilson Jr.

Stephen Wilson Jr., hailing from rural Southern Indiana, brands his music as “Death Cab For Country,” blending indie rock, grunge, and country. Influenced by The National, Willie Nelson, John Mellencamp, and Nirvana, Wilson, raised by a single father, boxed competitively from age seven. He pursued Microbiology at MTSU, founding indie rock band AutoVaughn post-degree. After touring with AutoVaughn, Wilson shifted to songwriting. His songs were recorded by Caitlyn Smith, Brothers Osborne, and more. Self-releasing hits like “the devil” and “billy,” he toured globally, captivating audiences with his emotive performance and guitar prowess. Signed with Big Loud Records in March 2023, and adding him to our list of Country Artists to Watch was a no-brainer!