Country music has always been popular for capturing the essence of different areas of the country but has recently seen somewhat of a renaissance over the past couple of years. Whatever the reason for this may be, it’s safe to say that the music is just as great as it’s ever been, and with more and more young talent entering the scene, it only looks to get even better. In this post, we will take a look at the top seven artists to keep an eye on, each bringing their unique style and perspective to the genre. Get ready to discover some new favorites!
Morgan Wallen
Let’s start with perhaps the most well-known contemporary country singer, Morgan Wallen. After rising to fame on the TV show The Voice, he signed with Panacea Records, and the rest is history. Morgan became so popular because of his ability to truly encompass this music style along with the emotion he wrings from his voice. Although not a stranger to controversy, he has managed to stay in the hearts and minds of those who genuinely appreciate his style of play and the music he brings forth.
Luke Combs
Combs has brought a melodic North Carolina style of country music to the masses, and the masses have responded with fervent praise. In fact, he is now considered one of the greats and is constantly ranked as one of the most popular singer/ songwriters in country music history, which says a lot, seeing as there is such a great history to dip into.
Zach Bryan
Zach is one of the more regarded artists on this list in terms of awards. Having been recognized with the Academy of Country Music Award for New Male Artist of the Year and won four Billboard Music Awards, it’s plain to see that he’s doing something right, both in terms of wooing the bigwigs and enamoring the people who live and breathe country.
Taylor Swift
Taylor Swift might be a peculiar entry at first sight, but before she rose into the rarified atmosphere well above us mere mortals, she became hugely popular as a country and Western singer. She actually excelled at this task, and many fans found it a shame when she turned more towards standard pop music, considering how her angelic voice was so ideally suited to this genre.
Bailey Zimmerman
Zimmerman had a slightly different start to his singing life than the others here. This good old boy from Illinois seemed more interested in dirt biking and baseball than making the sweet sounds he does these days. However, after being introduced to country music while traveling with his father on long-distance trips, it appears he became hooked and, lucky for us, chose a career in the biz.
HARDY
Michael Wilson Hardy (stylized as HARDY) is an interesting singer who is regularly touted as one to listen to if you haven’t already. Interestingly, he actually wrote the song “Up Down,” sung by the first entry in this post. As a result of its success, he was signed to a record label and started his career in the limelight rather than hidden from it.
Carrie Underwood
Another reality TV alumnus who ultimately rose to fame on the back of her raw talent is Carrie Underwood. After winning the fourth season of American Idol, she rapidly rose to significance and became part of the soundtrack to many people’s lives.
Country is an interesting genre since it tends to involve singers who have a knack for invoking emotions to well up in all those who listen to it. While there are plenty more stars to listen to and many more waiting in the wings, those on this list represent a great selection to start your playlist off with.