There’s no denying that Beyoncé’s “Cowboy Carter” has put a new spotlight on all the amazing Black artists adding their voices to country music. The album’s success has also empowered Black country fans to reclaim their place in the genre.
With the 2024 BET Awards showcasing performances from Shaboozey and Tanner Adell, it seems like we’re poised to see a fantastic surge for Black Country artists. That makes this a great time for fans to return to the genre, or jump in for the first time. Whether you’re a longtime fan, or a newcomer, these are some Black country artists you need to add to your summer playlist.
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Tiera Kennedy
Tiera Kennedy has a beautiful lilt to her voice that is reminiscent of Trisha Yearwood. It draws listeners in and makes them care about the story she’s telling.
Shaboozey
Shaboozey really has a handle on the fun aspect of country. It’s just you and your friends hanging out in a bar on a Friday night and anything can happen.
Camille Parker
Camille Parker’s pop country sound fits in perfectly alongside singers like Faith Hill and Carrie Underwood. Her voice has that feel-good country vibe that makes you smile and turn up the volume.
Amythyst Kiah
Amythyst Kiah is a fascinating storyteller whose medium just happens to be Americana and roots music. She calls it “Southern Gothic,” which feels like the perfect description. It’s simultaneously modern and fresh, while also maintaining an old school simplicity.
The War and Treaty
The sweet, pure musicality of The War and Treaty’s harmonies are hypnotizing. There’s an old school Johnny and June, George and Tammy, Dolly and Kenny quality that you can’t help getting lost in.
Allison Russell
Allison Russell’s commanding vocals draw listeners in to the story she’s weaving, making it impossible not to get invested.
Willie Jones
Willie Jones’ blend of old and new sounds is reminiscent of country stars like Brad Paisley, Luke Bryan and Hunter Hayes. He fits right in with current radio hits.
Mickey Guyton
Mickey Guyton’s powerful voice and knack for storytelling is reminiscent of artists like Faith Hill and Trisha Yearwood. Her hit “Black Like Me” was released in 2020, just when we needed an anthem encouraging us to be proud of who we are. Her songs are always thoughtful and meaningful, which keeps fans coming back for more of her message.
Darius Rucker
Darius Rucker’s music has an old school George Strait vibe, but still feels modern. It’s the kind of country you can just relax into on a Saturday afternoon.
Tanner Adell
If you’re looking for an artist who seamlessly combines the swag of Latto with the sweetness of Taylor Swift, look no further. Whether she’s invoking first love on “Luke Combs,” or telling the world exactly who she is on “Buckle Bunny,” Tanner Adell is exactly what country needs right now.
Julie Williams
One of CMT’s Next Women of Country Class of 2023, Julie Williams has a voice made for country storytelling. She draws you into every moment of the song until you find yourself completely invested, and need to hear all of her songs.
BRELAND
BRELAND blends the party atmosphere of country with hints of hip-hop, making it feel fresh and unique. This is how country music gets to the next generation without losing what fans love about it.
Loren Ryan
In addition to showcasing the flirty fun that is a staple of country love songs, Australian singer Loren Ryan also celebrates her culture by singing classics in her Gamilaraay language.
Brittney Spencer
The emotional range Brittney Spencer pours into her music commands the listener to pay attention. There’s a friendly familiarity that you only find in country music.
Kane Brown
The authenticity of Kane Brown’s music is what keeps fans coming back. When he sings, it doesn’t feel like it’s a song, he’s just telling you about his life.
RVSHVD
RVSHVD gained fame doing country covers of hip-hop songs on TikTok, but when you listen to the originals, it’s clear this is a traditional country artist in the same vein as Brooks & Dunn or Kenny Chesney.
Rodell Duff
With his everyman quality and instant emotional connection, Rodell Duff is giving serious Tim McGraw vibes.
Reyna Roberts
Country music has a long history of strong, badass women who ain’t nothin’ to mess with. And now Reyna Roberts has entered her sound into the chat.
Mike Parker
In his sweet love song “Blue Jean Masterpiece” Mike Parker brings a down to Earth vibe that makes the listener feel joyful, which is what you want from a love song.
Rhiannon Giddens
Yes Rhiannon Giddens is more of a folk artist than country singer, but there’s no way we could highlight the genre without showcasing her entrancing sound. And since she’s reportedly appearing on “Renaissance Act II,” we want the whole world to know who she is before she completely blows up.
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