Zach Bryan to Megan Moroney: We profile 12 stars of the country music explosion
Zach Bryan (left) and Megan Moroney (right).
Zach Bryan’s rise from US Navy serviceman to country music superstar is a modern success story. While serving in the navy, he began posting stripped-back performances online, quickly attracting a loyal fanbase drawn to his honest songwriting. His 2019 debut, followed by viral breakout set the stage for mainstream success. The 2022 album propelled him into global recognition, leading to sold-out tours and chart dominance. By 2025, Bryan had become the highest-earning country artist, fuelled by a $350 million record deal and massive touring success, cementing his status as one of the genre’s defining modern voices.
American Heartbreak.
Louisiana’s Lainey Wilson draws inspiration from dirt roads, late nights, close-knit hometowns, and a deep sense of Southern belonging. With determination, she moved to Nashville and spent three years living in a camper van parked outside a recording studio. The camper had no toilet and few comforts, but Wilson refused to give up. Today, the Grammy winner is one of country music’s biggest stars, celebrated for her authenticity and storytelling. Her appearance in Taylor Sheridan’s neo-Western elevated her rise, and the awards and accolades have continued to pour in ever since.
Bell Bottom Country.
Morgan Wallen first appeared on the American version of Although he didn't win, the exposure helped launch a successful career. Wallen had major commercial success, breaking several Billboard chart records previously associated with Garth Brooks and Whitney Houston. His career has also been marked by controversy, including incidents involving racist language, public intoxication, disorderly conduct, and breaches of covid-19 restrictions. While these events led to a temporary suspension by his record label and other penalties, they had little impact on his popularity, with record sales and streaming figures soaring.
: Dangerous: The Double Album.
Jackson Dean’s powerful vocals and rugged sound set him apart in modern country music. His musical style blends country, rock and Americana influences. Dean first gained widespread attention with his breakthrough single which became a major hit on country radio and was further boosted by . Known for his energetic live performances and distinctive voice, Dean has built a growing fan base, earning praise for his authentic storytelling and traditional musical roots. His voice and songwriting display a maturity and depth that belie his 25 years.
: On the Back of My Dreams.
Shane Smith & The Saints may not have reached stadium-headliner status, but that appears to be as much a matter of choice as popularity. A powerhouse in the Red Dirt country scene, their sound blends country, folk and Americana influences, featuring prominent fiddle work and acoustic arrangements. Known for their rich storytelling and thoughtful lyrics, they offer a more roots-driven approach than many of their contemporaries. A favourite on the country festival circuit, the band spent more than a decade building a loyal following before gaining wider recognition through the bountiful boom.
: Geronimo.
Few artists captured country music's attention as quickly as Ella Langley. The Alabama native brings a distinctive mix of Southern grit, sharp songwriting, and effortless charisma that feels both classic and refreshingly modern. After building her reputation in Nashville as a respected songwriter and relentless touring artist, Langley broke into the mainstream with the success of a chart-topping hit that introduced her to a global audience. With her confident stage presence, unapologetic authenticity, and knack for turning lived experience into memorable songs, Langley is one of country music's most talked-about rising stars.
: Dandelion.
Luke Combs is one of modern country music’s defining voices, known for his booming vocals, 1990s-influenced honky-tonk sound, and stadium-sized energy. The North Carolina singer has built one of the most dominant runs in contemporary country radio history, earning multiple consecutive No. 1 hits on the Billboard Country Airplay chart, including a total of 17 chart-toppers. He will make history at Slane Castle this summer as the first artist to headline two consecutive nights at the venue. Expect tears when he belts out
: What You See Is What You Get.
Megan Moroney stands at the forefront of Gen Z country as a key figure in the “emo cowgirl” wave defined by emotionally direct, diary-style songwriting. The Georgia native first gained widespread attention with her viral hit a clever, conversational track that showcased her warm vocal tone and sharp lyrical detail. She built on that momentum with her subsequent albums, reinforcing a style that blends humour, heartbreak, and modern relationship storytelling. Often compared to Taylor Swift, Moroney reflects a similar lyric-driven approach — fittingly, given Swift’s own early roots in country music.
: Am I OK?
Kip Moore is a highly respected artist who has carved out a unique path outside the mainstream spotlight. After achieving early commercial success in the US, he shifted toward a more independent, rock-influenced outlaw country sound. While his radio presence gradually softened, his reputation as a live performer grew significantly, particularly on international stages. Known for gritty storytelling and emotional honesty, Moore is often referred to as the Springsteen of country thanks to his blue-collar themes and arena-ready energy. His career reflects artistic freedom over chart dominance, earning respect among fans and peers.
: Wild Ones.
Riley Green’s journey from Alabama to performing in packed arenas was slower than most. Far from an overnight success, Green spent years touring and releasing music independently, steadily building a loyal following. Celebrated for his rugged charm and authentic storytelling, Green is now one of the genre’s most sought-after artists. His music, rich in nostalgia and sincerity, resonates with fans across generations. With chart-climbing hits, industry recognition, and a devoted fan base, he represents the next generation of country music while staying true to the traditions and values that shaped his sound.
: Ain’t My Last Rodeo.
Take Garth Brooks, Clint Black and Vince Gill and mute them — because it’s Tim McGraw who stands as one of country’s defining figures. At 59, McGraw is a relentless touring force and embodies the country cowboy. From duetting with Taylor Swift to acting in , McGraw, with 46 No. 1 singles, is among the most successful country artists of all time. Instantly recognisable beneath his trademark cowboy hat, McGraw has spent more than three decades at the forefront of country music. Combining longevity, versatility and enduring star power, he remains a towering presence in the genre and a true country icon.
: With so many, just dive in.
Faith Hill is one of the most successful and influential female artists in country music history. Renowned for her powerful vocals and magnetic stage presence, she enjoyed enormous success throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, becoming one of the genre’s biggest crossover stars. Hits such as , and helped her reach audiences far beyond country music, earning multi-platinum sales and numerous awards. More recently, Hill impressed audiences with her acting performance alongside her husband, Tim McGraw, in the hit television western series . Married since 1996, the couple remain country music’s ultimate power pair.
: Breathe
