Who’s RISING Now? 5 Artists to Watch in May 2019
This group of five rising country acts to keep an eye on in May 2019 can be summarized by one word: Dynamic.
There are some familiar faces on this list. "Rock On" singer Tucker Beathard recently launched a career reboot during his brief tenure as an independent artist that saw the release of his rock-leaning project, Nobody's Everything.
Alongside Beathard on our monthly list is an undeniable bluegrass star and a new country duo from in Australia who made the move to Nashville to pursue their dreams. Rounding out these fantastic artists is an all-female trio that defy their young age with a polished sound and an up-and-coming artist who almost chose pre-med school over music.
- 1
Molly Tuttle
Tuttle has been cultivating an undeniable presence in the bluegrass scene for roughly half a decade, scoring several International Bluegrass Music Awards and even being named Instrumentalist of the Year at the 2018 Americana Music Honors & Awards. But it’s her debut album When You’re Ready that best conveys her power as an expert musician, insightful lyricist, glowing vocalist and captivating artist. For fans craving the storytelling songs of country music and the organic roots of bluegrass, Tuttle is your oracle. Look for her to be an important voice in music as the brilliance of When You’re Ready resonates across genre lines.
- 2
Tucker Beathard
Though Beathard was first introduced to the country audience through his chart-topping debut single “Rock On” in 2016, his latest album Nobody’s Everything is a striking introduction of the artist he's meant to be. The dynamic project showcases an honest songwriter exploring his emotions and insecurities and turning them into art, with potent tracks like “Leave Me Alone” and “How Gone Will I Go." Beathard is bound to continue to craft a compelling story as he becomes a standout act this year.
- 3
Seaforth
Friends since childhood, the duo of Tom Jordan and Mitch Thompson ventured more than 9,000 miles from their Australian hometown from which they get their namesake to chase their dreams in Nashville. This journey has culminated in an impressive introductory EP that serves as a prelude to an upcoming album, and their sound proves they’re a natural fit in modern country music. There’s a breezy nature to their songs, as demonstrated by the way their harmonies pristinely unite on “Love That” in a way that emits positivity, while the tranquil, yet somber “Taken Your Picture” lets their vocals shine. Look for Seaforth to be a breakout duo in 2019.
- 4
Matt Stell
Matt Stell’s journey to music was anything but ordinary. After a mission trip in Haiti inspired him to pursue medicine, Still was caught at a crossroads between enrolling in a pre-medical program at Harvard or playing country music full-time. The path naturally led Stell to Music City, where he's since released a debut EP, Last of the Best, that features his hand in every song and establishes a country rock edge that differentiates him from his contemporary peers. But it’s his breakthrough song “Prayed for You” that will put him on the map. Its message of finding the person you always dreamed you would is the kind that resonates with people on a deep level, proving Stell’s gift for poignant songwriting and making for a powerful first impression on the country community, one that is bound to take him far in the genre.
- 5
Southern Halo
There's a reason the trio of Southern Halo have caught the ears of fans and the Nashville industry alike. Comprised of sisters Natalia, Christina and Hannah Morris, the young trio have a polished sound with pristine harmonies and budding songwriting. There’s an effervescent flair to the group that makes their sound so alluring, honing in on the ability to showcase their dynamic facets, whether it be words of encouragement on “Anything is Possible,” recognizing their tendency to overthink love on “I Think Too Much,” or embracing independence while missing the comfort of home on “Missing Mississippi." Watch for the young stars to continue growing their bright sound that will propel them into country stardom.
- BONUS
Jimmie Allen's "Make Me Want To" Is Addicting!