As country music continues to evolve, a new wave of artists is stepping forward with fresh perspectives, fearless songwriting, and sounds that feel rooted yet forward-thinking. From traditionalists breathing new life into classic storytelling to boundary-pushers blending country with rock, pop, and Americana influences, the genre’s future is looking as vibrant as ever. 2025 has laid the groundwork, but all signs point to 2026 being a breakout year for a select group of rising talents who are already building serious momentum.
Our feature, 10 Artists to Watch Out For in 2026, shines a spotlight on the emerging country acts we believe are poised for a major year ahead. Whether it’s viral moments turning into sustained careers, acclaimed songwriting finally finding a wider audience, or relentless touring paying off in a big way, each artist on this list has something special working in their favor. These are the names you’ll likely be hearing a lot more of over the next twelve months — and the ones we think could define the next chapter of country music.
Elizabeth Nichols
Elizabeth Nichols has rapidly become one of country music’s most buzzed-about newcomers, turning viral success into a burgeoning career that shows no signs of slowing down in 2026. The 22-year-old songwriter first broke through with ‘I Got a New One,’ a witty, fiercely relatable track that exploded online and shot to No. 1 on the iTunes Country chart after The Kelly Clarkson Show featured it, amassing millions of streams and landing her as Billboard’s Country Rookie of the Month. She’s followed that with a string of smart, emotionally rich singles like ‘Daughter’ and the playful ‘Little Birds,’ each building her profile and showcasing her knack for blending humour, heart, and unfiltered storytelling that resonates with fans across social platforms. Nichols made her Grand Ole Opry debut in November 2025 in a deeply personal performance, further proving her appeal, and she’s now set to make her UK debut at C2C Festival in 2026 — a clear sign that this rising talent is ready to break out even bigger on the global stage.
Spencer Hatcher
Spencer Hatcher is rapidly emerging as one of country music’s most exciting new traditionalists, blending twang-heavy honky-tonk with heartfelt storytelling in a way that feels both timeless and immediate. Raised in Virginia and steeped in bluegrass and classic country influences, Hatcher has crafted his debut EP ‘Honky Tonk Hideaway’ into a vivid showcase of his authentic sound, from the intimate slow burn of ‘When She Calls Me Cowboy’ to the raucous barroom energy of the title track. His commitment to pure country — with pedal steel, fiddle, shuffle rhythms and lived-in narratives — has won him a growing fanbase, early radio attention and praise for staying true to the genre’s roots at a time when tradition is gaining renewed momentum among listeners.
With a clear artistic vision and strong work ethic, Hatcher isn’t chasing trends so much as revitalising a sound that resonates with both old-school fans and a new generation intrigued by real country music. His move to Nashville, radio tours, and relentless live performances reflect an artist laying the groundwork for long-term success, while songs from ‘Honky Tonk Hideaway’ have already connected deeply with audiences on the road and online. All signs point to 2026 being a breakthrough year for Hatcher as he continues to build momentum and redefine what modern traditional country can be.
Faith Hopkins
Faith Hopkins is quickly emerging as one of country music’s most promising new voices, blending heartfelt songwriting with a fresh, modern energy that feels perfectly in step with 2026’s musical landscape. Raised in California and now based in Nashville after pursuing songwriting at Belmont University, she has already made a strong impression with her debut EP ‘Love and Insanity,’ a six-song collection that explores love, heartbreak and self-discovery with sharp lyrics and soulful delivery. Her ability to craft emotionally honest, melodic stories that balance vulnerability, wit and pop-informed hooks has won her early acclaim and positioned her as an artist who can connect deeply with listeners across the genre.
Signed to Dallas Davidson’s Play It Again Music, Hopkins draws inspiration from artists like Kelsea Ballerini, Kacey Musgraves and Sabrina Carpenter yet forges a sound that is distinctly her own, combining California ease with classic Nashville storytelling. With ‘Love and Insanity’ marking a striking arrival and more new music already in the works, she’s poised for a breakthrough year, ready to expand her audience further on stages and playlists alike in 2026.
Ben Gallaher
Ben Gallaher has quickly carved out a standout place in modern country music with his high-energy blend of guitar-driven rock and classic country storytelling, making him one of the emerging artists primed for a breakthrough in 2026. Raised in small-town Pennsylvania and now based in Nashville, Gallaher built a reputation as a powerhouse guitarist and performer long before his sophomore album ‘Time’ landed, showcasing raspy vocals, fierce riffs and arena-ready hooks that nod to his influences from 90s country greats and rock icons alike. His viral riff-driven track ‘Stomp’ alone has earned over 36 million organic views on social media, helping him amass a rapidly growing fanbase and proving his music resonates far beyond traditional country circles.
‘Time’ has been praised for marrying raw rock vigour with deep emotional storytelling, spanning anthemic uptempo songs and introspective ballads that reflect his evolving artistic vision. Backed by top Nashville session players and bolstered by his own commanding guitar work on every lead solo, Gallaher’s work defies easy categorisation while remaining rooted in heartfelt narratives and infectious melodies. As he continues to expand his reach on the road and online, all signs point to 2026 being a breakout year for Gallaher, with industry buzz and fan enthusiasm pushing him toward wider recognition and a growing legacy as a dynamic frontman and modern country rock force.
Just Jayne
Just Jayne are shaping up to be one of country music’s most exciting breakout acts of 2026 thanks to their sharp songwriting, modern perspective and a momentum that already feels hard to stop. As they discussed in our recent interview, the trio’s debut EP ‘The Beginning’ is exactly that: a confident introduction rooted in friendship, authenticity and a clear creative vision, blending contemporary country with pop-leaning hooks and emotionally direct storytelling. Their rapid rise has been accelerated by the inclusion of their song ‘Climate Change’ in the Netflix series Nobody Wants This, a moment that exposed their music to a global audience and proved their songs can connect far beyond traditional country spaces. With a strong sense of identity, an openness about their journey so far and a growing platform that continues to expand with every release, Just Jayne feel perfectly positioned to turn early buzz into a genuine breakthrough year ahead.
McCoy Moore
McCoy Moore is poised to be one of country music’s brightest emerging stars in 2026 thanks to his thoughtful songwriting, genuine emotional depth and a sound that bridges classic country sensibilities with modern storytelling. In our recent interview, Moore discussed his new EP and how his writing draws from real life and personal reflection, giving his music a sincerity that resonates with listeners at every turn. His ability to craft songs that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable, paired with his growing presence on the Nashville scene, suggests a trajectory that could see him break out beyond the traditional indie circuit. With a clear artistic voice, strong work ethic and material that feels ready for wider recognition, Moore is building the kind of momentum that could make 2026 a defining year in his career.
Waylon Wyatt
Waylon Wyatt is shaping up to be one of country music’s most compelling emerging artists going into 2026, blending raw red-dirt authenticity with deeply relatable songwriting that has already earned him a devoted global following. The 19-year-old from Hackett, Arkansas first broke through with his homemade debut EP ‘Til the Sun Goes Down,’ which has racked up over 225 million streams and a Gold certification, and he followed it with a critically acclaimed second EP ‘Out Of The Blue,’ showcasing his growth as both a singer and storyteller. Wyatt’s live résumé is already impressive — he’s sold out headline shows across the US, Europe and Canada, played major festival stages, and shared stages with Zach Bryan at Hyde Park and Turnpike Troubadours at Red Rocks — proving his music resonates in both intimate club settings and on big-stage platforms. His honest, heartfelt lyrics, striking voice and ability to connect with audiences have made him one of the most talked-about young voices in country and Americana, and all signs point toward 2026 being a breakout year as he continues to expand his reach and craft.
Hudson Westbrook
Hudson Westbrook is emerging as one of country music’s most exciting new voices, and all signs point to a big 2026 ahead as he builds on the momentum from his Top 10 debut album ‘Texas Forever.’ The project showcased Westbrook’s mix of heartfelt lyrics, traditional country roots and modern sensibilities, earning praise for both its songwriting and emotional clarity while making a strong chart impact that many newcomers only dream of. Hailing from Texas and deeply influenced by the storytelling traditions of the Lone Star State, Westbrook brings a sincerity and authenticity to his music that has already begun to resonate with fans and critics alike. With his first major album under his belt, a growing fanbase, and a sound that bridges classic and contemporary country, Hudson Westbrook is poised to become a standout artist in 2026 as he continues to expand his reach on radio, streaming platforms and stages worldwide.
The Jack Wharff Band
The Jack Wharff Band have quietly built an impressive résumé that suggests 2026 could be a genuine breakout year for the Virginia-based outfit. Blending Appalachian roots, classic country storytelling and modern Americana energy, the band have earned growing national attention through relentless touring, standout festival appearances and a run of well-received releases that showcase both their musicianship and emotional depth. Their music has resonated with fans looking for something authentic and lived-in, helping them amass a rapidly expanding grassroots following and strong streaming growth. With increasing industry buzz, a reputation as a powerful live act and a sound that feels perfectly timed for country music’s continued return to its roots, the Jack Wharff Band are well positioned to take a major step forward in 2026.
Noeline Hofmann
Rising country singer Noeline Hofmann is quickly establishing herself as a force to be reckoned with, thanks to her emotive songwriting, powerhouse vocals, and authentic storytelling. Her 2024 album, ‘Purple Gas,’ showcased her ability to blend traditional country roots with a modern edge, earning critical praise and expanding her fanbase with standout tracks that highlight both her lyrical depth and dynamic performance style. With a string of singles gaining traction on streaming platforms, captivating live performances, and festival appearances, Hofmann has proven she has both the talent and work ethic to rise quickly in the industry. All signs point to 2026 being a breakout year for her as she continues to build on the momentum of Purple Gas and solidify her place as one of country music’s most exciting emerging voices.
