Music City Melodies: Ones to Watch in 2026
- Jan 1
- 3 min read
As the Nashville music scene continues to evolve, 2026 is shaping up to be a year defined by artists who blend authenticity with fearlessness. These musicians aren’t chasing trends or following in the footsteps of their peers; they’re building worlds through songwriting, performance, and an unmistakable point of view. Rooted in lived experience and shaped by different places, perspectives, and paths into Nashville’s creative community, their songs are the kind that linger: the ones you return to, the names you start seeing everywhere, and the artists whose growth is just beginning to come into focus as the year unfolds.
From rising singer-songwriters to genre-bending voices, these are our "lucky seven" Artists to Watch in 2026, each reflecting a moment in music where individuality matters more than fitting a mold.
Caryn Dixon
Caryn Dixon is quietly becoming one of Nashville’s most compelling storytellers, deeply rooted in emotional truth and Appalachian spirit. Her songs feel like conversations with old friends: warm, honest, and evocative. Dixon’s ability to balance vulnerability with strength makes her music deeply relatable, and her nuanced voice hints at lasting impact. One of our favorite artists of 2025!
Recommended songs:
“Arson Song”
“Sweet Mountain Flower”
For fans of: Lori McKenna, Brandi Carlile, The Pistol Annies
Owen Riegling
Canadian-born Owen Riegling is emerging as a strong voice in modern country, grounded in emotional storytelling and melodic instinct. His songs explore love, nostalgia, and growing pains with sincerity, giving listeners something to hold onto. Riegling’s authenticity and quirky personality continue to resonate with fans as his presence expands.
Recommended songs:
“Old Times Sake”
“Moonlight”
For fans of: Morgan Wallen, Riley Green, Zach Bryan
Mary Kutter
Mary Kutter stands out as a powerful songwriter with a sharp lyrical pen and a voice built for storytelling. Her songs pull from folklore, faith, rebellion, and Southern grit, blending dark humor with emotional depth. Kutter's music continues to go viral across social media platforms and her songwriting is her calling card: vivid, fearless, and unapologetically her own.
Recommended songs:
“Devil’s Money”
“Bootlegger’s Bible”
For fans of: Ashley McBryde, Lucinda Williams, Bonnie Raitt
Mikki Zip
Mikki Zip is redefining modern Nashville rock with sharp songwriting and unapologetic grit. His music captures the poetry of dive bars, backroad highways, and sleepless nights; equal parts heartland storytelling and raw rock energy. Zip’s songs feel built for packed rooms and late-night drives, carrying both swagger and substance. We hope to be as cool as she is one day!
Recommended songs:
“Sweethearts of the Dive Bar”
“Somethin’ to Write About”
For fans of: Chris Stapleton, Jason Isbell, The Black Crowes, Joan Jett
Laci Kaye Booth
First seen on American Idol, Laci Kaye Booth continues to evolve as one of country music’s most distinctive modern voices. With her airy vocals and emotionally precise songwriting, she balances polish with grit and vulnerability with confidence. Booth’s ability to tackle complicated family dynamics and inner conflict sets her apart from others, making her one to watch for 2026!
Recommended songs:
“Cigarettes”
“Daddy’s Mugshot”
For fans of: Maren Morris, Kacey Musgraves, Carter Faith
Maddie Lenhart
Maddie Lenhart, born and raised in the heart of Virginia’s countryside, has emerged as one of country music’s most captivating new voices. Her down-to-earth roots and rich storytelling bring classic country tradition into the present with authenticity and heart. Since her debut, she’s earned organic traction with deeply personal songs and continues gaining recognition through performances at iconic Nashville venues and major festivals like CMA Fest.
Recommended songs:
“Sober”
“Time Traveler”
For fans of: Kacey Musgraves, Ella Langley, Lainey Wilson
Cammy Barnes
Hailing from Scotland, Cammy Barnes brings an international edge to contemporary country, blending folk-leaning storytelling with soulful, modern production. His breakout track “Whiskey Roll” showcases his gift for pairing heartfelt lyrics with a sound that feels both timeless and fresh. Barnes’ growing global audience and distinctive voice position him as an artist poised to make serious waves in 2026.
Recommended songs:
“Whiskey Roll”
"Pipes of Home"
For fans of: Mumford & Sons, The War and Treaty, Teddy Swims
*All photos courtesy of Instagram
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