2024 MusicRow Awards Category Profile: Breakthrough Artist Of The Year
Following the announcement of this year’s nominees for the 36th annual MusicRow Awards, presented by City National Bank, we take a closer look at the Breakthrough Artist of the Year category. This category is voted on by MusicRow’s subscribers to honor a Nashville artist who achieved significant career progress for the first time.
This year’s winners will be announced online on all MusicRow platforms on Tuesday, Aug. 27.
Click here to see the full list of MusicRow Awards nominees.
Winners are determined solely by MusicRow Magazine subscribers. Voting is now open and closes on Aug. 9 at 5:00 p.m. To receive a ballot to vote in the MusicRow Awards, becoming a MusicRow subscriber here.
Reigning CMT Music Awards Breakthrough Female Video of the Year winner Ashley Cooke is known for her skillfully-crafted lyrics, a knack for unforgettable performances, effortless vocal beauty, a bold sense of internal grit and a passion for capturing the magic between heartbeats. The Florida native has already been streamed over 270 million times globally, with hits such as “Never Til’ Now” with Brett Young and her first country radio No. 1 “Your Place.” The singer-songwriter has been on tour with Luke Bryan, Jordan Davis, Cole Swindell and Brett Young and made appearances on some of music’s most iconic stages such as the Grand Ole Opry and the Ryman Auditorium. With the release of her debut album, Shot In The Dark, Cooke shared her sun-kissed blend of two-lane pop country in the project’s 24 tracks, inspired by true tales of love, heartbreak and all the moments in between. Cooke has also already seen her first ACM nomination for New Female Artist of the Year.
Having been immersed in the world of country, folk and Americana music from an early age, Dasha is bringing her introspection and allure to the genre in a big way. The San Luis Obispo, California native is equipped with a passion for sharing her true story, evident in the release of her debut country album, What Happens Now? The eight-track collection is defined by its authenticity, raw emotion and relatability, mirroring her genuine self-expression. Featured on the project, her viral hit “Austin” has amassed over 10 billion views on TikTok, with its accompanying signature line dance. Dasha recently released her new single “Didn’t I,” which she debuted on the Platform Stage at CMA Fest. She will also make appearances at Country Concert, Lollapalooza, The Long Road Festival and more as well as support Parker McCollum and embark on her first headlining tour this fall.
With a voice that hits like thunder, Kameron Marlowe‘s sound is instantly recognizable. The Kannapolis, North Carolina native began singing in church choirs and high school bands. After gaining some attention through his online videos, he made the move to music city. His viral hit “Giving Up On You” propelled Marlowe into the spot light. He followed the single with his debut album, We Were Cowboys, which contained two Gold-certified tracks. His recently-released sophomore album, Keepin’ The Lights On, uses his scope and maturity to establish him as a true force. He is a triple-threat singer, songwriter and performer blazing his own path, marked by his distinctively soulful and resonant vocals. Marlowe uses his vulnerability to share themes of mental health, battling feelings of inadequacy and the relentless pursuit of success. He has shared the stage with Thomas Rhett, Riley Green, Morgan Wallen and Lainey Wilson as well as performed over 200 headlining shows. He will hit the road again this fall on his own tour.
Platinum singer-songwriter Bryan Martin uses his tales of past struggles to tell a compelling story of survival. Martin began singing in church in his hometown of Logansport, Louisiana, giving him the influence of hymns, while later discovering a passion for country music. Before moving to Music City, he faced personal challenges, including drugs and a suicide attempt at 19. After sustaining a brain injury from a near-fatal car accident, he used music to address his struggles and started to unapologetically embrace his scars. Now, with over 700 million streams, Martin has shared the stage with Morgan Wallen and Jason Aldean, and has made his Grand Ole Opry debut. In 2023, Martin released his sophomore album Poets & Old Souls, which includes his smash hit “We Ride.” He recently released his newest track, “Wishbone,” which dives into his battle against the allure of stardom and the rigors of touring life. Despite the challenges, Martin’s indomitable spirit perseveres, infusing his music with raw emotion and seeking refuge in art.
Multi-genre artist Shaboozey is paving his own path in the alternative country and hip-hop space. The Woodbridge, Virginia native grew up on everything from classic hip-hop and R&B to country and blues icons like Johnny Cash, Kenny Rogers, Garth Brooks and Lead Belly, to master lyricists such as Bob Dylan and Leonard Cohen. He was featured on Beyonce’s Cowboy Carter album and later released his debut album, Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going. The project debuted in the top five on the Billboard 200 chart. The standout single “A Bar Song (Tipsy)” is certified double-Platinum and reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Shaboozey, along with Beyonce, became the first Black artist to score consecutive No. 1 hits in the Billboard Hot Country Song chart’s 66-year history. He will embark on his headlining tour later this year and is on the bill for Outside Lands, among other festivals.
Nashville native Conner Smith has always had songwriting in his bones. The singer spent 15 years matching his honeyed vocal to propulsive hints of bluegrass and the warmth of ’90s country. Now, Smith’s mix of prime-of-life passion with old soul perspective can be heard on his debut album, Smoky Mountains. Featuring his Gold-certified “Take It Slow,” viral hit “I Hate Alabama” and radio smashes “Creek Will Rise” and “Roulette On The Heart” featuring Hailey Whitters, the 12-track project lays an artistic foundation for Smith to root himself in the depths of the industry. Named a part of the CRS New Faces Class of 2024, Smith has already earned an ACM nomination for New Male Artist of the Year. His fans resonate with his authentic storytelling and rich, soulful voice while on tour with Thomas Rhett, Cole Swindell, Chase Rice and Jordan Davis. Smith is set to embark on his own headlining tour this fall, while also joining Luke Bryan on the road.
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