Eleven New Country Music Entrants with Impressive Commercial Success
Quick Facts
The Rise of Youthful Talent: The 11 Youngest Stars to Make it Big in Country Music
Country music has a way of captivating audiences with its twangy guitars, heartfelt lyrics, and toe-tapping rhythms. While many of the genre’s biggest stars have spent years honing their craft, we’ve seen an influx of talented young artists burst onto the scene, bringing their unique perspectives and sounds to the table.
1. Hannah Montana Alum, Alexis Robbins, 14
Alexis Robbins, the talented 14-year-old singer-songwriter, rose to fame as a member of the chart-topping Disney girl group, Aly & AJ. Her solo country-pop crossover sound has earned her a spot on the radio waves, and she’s already opened for major country artists like Keith Urban. With her pipes and pop sensibilities, Robbins is well on her way to becoming a country music powerhouse.
2. Riley Green, 19, Country’s Newest Heartthrob
Riley Green’s debut single, “There Was This Girl,” shot to the top of the charts, making him one of the youngest artists to have a #1 song on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. This Alabama native’s soulful voice, coupled with his boyish charm, has captured the hearts of fans everywhere. With his relatable lyrics and genre-bending sound, Green is the perfect example of country music’s evolving landscape.
3. Ashley McBryde, 27, Country’s New Queen of Honky-Tonk
Ashley McBryde’s forthright, gravelly voice and relatable songwriting have drawn comparisons to Dolly Parton and Loretta Lynn. At 27, McBryde is already a force to be reckoned with in country music, earning six Grammy nominations for her critically-acclaimed debut album, “Girl Going Nowhere.” Her authentic, no-frills approach has earned her a devoted fan base, and she’s poised to become one of country’s leading ladies.
4. Jake Worthington, 22, The Voice Alum’s Country Comeback
After placing sixth on Season 4 of NBC’s “The Voice,” Jake Worthington released his debut EP, “Lo Mejor de Mi Vida Eterna.” The Texas native’s soulful, country-rock sound has captured the attention of fans and critics alike, earning him a spot on the Grand Ole Opry stage. With his rugged vocals and genuine songwriting, Worthington is a shining example of what happens when raw talent meets hard work.
5. Carson Peters, 15, The Youngest Country Singer to Win a Recording Contract
Carson Peters, the 15-year-old country singer-songwriter, made headlines when he became the youngest artist to win a recording contract at the 2019 Country Music Association Songwriters Competition. His soulful, bluegrass-inspired sound has drawn comparisons to legends like Bill Monroe and Lester Flatt. With his meteoric rise, Peters is set to become one of country’s youngest stars.
6. Maddie & Tae, 22 and 20, The Powerhouse Songwriting Duo
The duo Maddie & Tae, consisting of Maddie Marlow (22) and Taylor Dye (20), has risen to fame with their catchy, radio-friendly pop-country sound. The pair’s witty lyrics and soaring harmonies have made them one of the genre’s most exciting young acts. With their chart-topping hits “Girl in a Country Song” and “Die From a Broken Heart,” Maddie & Tae are redefining what country radio sounds like.
7. Lauren Alaina, 25, The Teen Idol’s Country Comeback
Lauren Alaina, the former “American Idol” contestant, has spent years honing her craft, releasing three successful country albums. At 25, she’s now back with a vengeance, her latest single, “Getting Good at Being Bad,” showcasing her growth as a songwriter and artist. With her powerhouse vocals and relatable lyrics, Alaina is one of country’s most underrated young stars.
8. Mitchell Tenpenny, 29, The “Drunk Me” Sensation
Mitchell Tenpenny’s debut single, “Drunk Me,” topped the country charts, earning him a spot as one of the genre’s fastest-rising stars. With his unique blend of country, rock, and pop, Tenpenny’s music defies genre boundaries. This Nashville-based artist has collaborated with notable names like Chris Young and Jimmie Allen, solidifying his position as an exciting young talent.
9. Kassi Ashton, 28, The Singer-Songwriter’s Sophomore Slump
Kassi Ashton’s debut album, “Violins,” brought her critical acclaim and a spot on the Country Music Association’s “Next from Nashville” program. With her captivating, cinematic sound and poignant lyrics, Ashton is one of country’s most exciting up-and-coming artists. Her sophomore album, “Rent Money,” showcases her growth as a songwriter and her ability to craft hook-laden hits.
10. Lainey Wilson, 24, The “Roots and Wings” Rising Star
Lainey Wilson’s debut single, “Me,” has earned her a spot on the country charts and praise from critics like Rolling Stone Country. This Louisiana native’s raw, bluesy voice and thoughtful songwriting have drawn comparisons to legends like Dolly Parton and Waylon Jennings. With her rootsy, country sound and relatable lyrics, Wilson is poised to become one of country’s leading young voices.
11. Caylee Hammack, 24, The Songwriting Sensation
Caylee Hammack’s soulful, country-soul sound has captured the attention of fans and artists alike, earning her songwriting credits on tracks by Cam, Brett Young, and Chase Rice. Her debut album, “What Can I Do,” solidified her position as one of country’s most exciting new voices. With her moving, emotionally charged songwriting and powerful vocals, Hammack is a force to be reckoned with in the country music scene.