Country music has always been at the heart and soul of America. The new generation of male country artists, such as Charles Kelley, Lee Brice, and Brett Young, are carrying forward this legacy, infusing their unique styles and personal tales into the age-old genre.
As the world of country music continues to evolve, these young talents are at the forefront, blending the traditional with the contemporary, and serving up tracks that resonate with fans old and new.
Contents
- 1. Morgan Wallen
- 2. Kane Brown
- 3. Zach Bryan
- 4. Luke Combs
- 5. Bailey Zimmerman
- 6. Jordan Davis
- 7. HARDY
- 8. Thomas Rhett
- 9. Parker McCollum
- 10. Mitchell Tenpenny
- 11. Scotty McCreery
- 12. Sam Hunt
- 13. Russell Dickerson
- 14. Tyler Childers
- 15. Jackson Dean
- 16. Charles Kelley
- 17. Corey Kent
- 18. Lee Brice
- 19. Cole Swindell
- 20. Brett Young
- Final Thoughts
1. Morgan Wallen
Hailing from East Tennessee, Morgan Wallen brings a unique blend of southern rock and country soul to the table. His hit “Whiskey Glasses” doesn’t just show off his vocal range, but also his knack for picking relatable narratives that resonate with fans across the spectrum.
2. Kane Brown
Kane Brown is reshaping modern country. His ability to infuse R&B nuances into country staples is nothing short of genius. If you’ve ever felt a song speak directly to your heart, chances are you’ve listened to his chart-topper, “Heaven”.
3. Zach Bryan
With a voice that evokes raw emotion and songs that narrate the simplicity of life, Zach Bryan is undoubtedly a rising star. “Heading South” is not just a song; it’s a journey – one that beautifully encapsulates the essence of youth and wanderlust.
4. Luke Combs
Luke Combs isn’t just singing songs; he’s telling stories. With powerful vocals and a keen sense of musical storytelling, his hits, like “Beautiful Crazy”, are both anthems and narratives. Combs has a way of weaving tales that feel universally relatable yet deeply personal.
5. Bailey Zimmerman
Bailey Zimmerman may be a newer name for some, but he’s making waves with his fresh take on classic country themes. His style is both evocative and soothing, creating a musical landscape where listeners can reflect and find solace.
6. Jordan Davis
Sporting a signature beard and an even more distinct voice, Jordan Davis has made significant strides in the country music scene. With tracks like “Singles You Up,” Davis marries traditional country sounds with modern themes, making him a favorite among both new and seasoned listeners.
7. HARDY
This Mississippi native, known simply as HARDY, brings an earthy authenticity to his music. A songwriter turned singer, he penned hits for other artists before shining in his own light. His track “Rednecker” playfully embraces southern pride, showing off his unique blend of humor and musical prowess.
8. Thomas Rhett
Thomas Rhett, with his charismatic presence and heartfelt lyrics, has established a firm footprint in contemporary country. Songs like “Die a Happy Man” are testimonies to his versatility, weaving touching love stories with harmonious melodies.
9. Parker McCollum
Texas has given country music a plethora of talent, and Parker McCollum stands tall among them. With a voice that’s as expansive as the Texan plains, tracks like “Pretty Heart” have positioned him as an artist who beautifully bridges classic country sounds with fresh narratives.
10. Mitchell Tenpenny
Mitchell Tenpenny’s voice carries a richness that resonates with many. His urban-influenced tracks, coupled with poignant songwriting, make for compelling listening. “Drunk Me” stands out as a testament to his talent, melding emotion with catchy country-pop rhythms.
11. Scotty McCreery
Winner of the 10th season of “American Idol”, Scotty McCreery has a baritone voice that’s unmistakably mature and rich. His hit “Five More Minutes” isn’t just a song, it’s a memory capsule, capturing moments of youth and fleeting time. McCreery masterfully balances contemporary themes with classic country sounds.
12. Sam Hunt
Sam Hunt is the fusion artist country music didn’t know it needed. While he stands firm in his country roots, elements of pop and R&B sneak into his tracks, making hits like “Body Like a Back Road” both genre-blending and trendsetting.
13. Russell Dickerson
Radiating energy and positivity, Russell Dickerson’s tracks have a knack for turning listeners into instant fans. “Yours” is a perfect example of his uplifting style—a ballad that showcases both his vocal range and his songwriting depth.
14. Tyler Childers
Tyler Childers brings a certain raw authenticity to the table. His voice, reminiscent of traditional Appalachian tunes, carries stories of life, love, and hardships. With songs like “Feathered Indians,” Childers channels the spirit of the old country into the modern era.
15. Jackson Dean
Jackson Dean, with his rugged voice and a penchant for storytelling, is a promising addition to the country music scene. Tracks like “No Show” give listeners a taste of his grounded, narrative-driven approach to songwriting, hinting at the expansive potential of his future discography.
16. Charles Kelley
One-third of the famed country trio Lady A, Charles Kelley’s solo endeavors stand as a testament to his musical prowess. His voice, velvety and expressive, shines particularly bright in songs like “The Driver”. He brings to the country scene a blend of classic storytelling with contemporary charm.
17. Corey Kent
Corey Kent’s music is a delightful mix of feel-good rhythms and deep, introspective lyrics. Tracks like “White Caps” echo his Oklahoma roots, intertwining tales of everyday life with the universal appeal of country melodies.
18. Lee Brice
With a voice that can pull at your heartstrings and then make you tap your feet, Lee Brice stands as a versatile talent in country music. His songs, such as “Rumor”, are a showcase of his ability to convey emotion, making listeners feel every word he sings.
19. Cole Swindell
Cole Swindell, initially known for his songwriting prowess, stepped into the limelight as a singer with ease. His tracks, like “Chillin’ It”, serve up a blend of catchy hooks and relatable narratives, solidifying his spot in the contemporary country landscape.
20. Brett Young
Brett Young’s soulful renditions, like “In Case You Didn’t Know”, are as heartwarming as they are memorable. His soothing voice, combined with lyrics that touch on love and loss, makes him a favorite for both romantic ballads and introspective tunes.
Final Thoughts
These artists, with their passion and fresh perspectives, are not only honoring the roots of this beloved genre but also driving it into a promising future. While they each bring their own flavor and flair, the collective heartbeat of their music ensures that the spirit of country remains timeless.
Morgan Wallen Featured Image (Top-Left) by: Morganwallen8020, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Kane Brown Featured Image (Top-Right) by: California National Guard, Senior Airman Crystal Housman, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Luke Combs Featured Image (Bottom-Left) by: David Bergman, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Bailey Zimmerman Featured Image (Bottom-Right) by: Warner Music New Zealand, CC BY 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons