Canadian country continues to produce a new wave of artists making their mark across radio, streaming, live shows, and beyond. From emerging voices beginning to break through to artists already building serious momentum, these are 10 Canadian country artists worth keeping an eye on throughout 2026.
The Rising Names Making an Impact Across Canadian Country
1. Sully Burrows
One of the artists making a strong impression on the Canadian country scene right now, with a sound that balances traditional country influences with a modern edge. His growing profile and 2026 CCMA Breakthrough Artist nomination make him one to keep an eye on.
2. Morgan Griffiths
A fresh voice bringing plenty of personality and confidence to the Canadian country landscape. With a growing catalogue and a Breakthrough Artist nomination under his belt, he’s continuing to build a name for himself.
3. Brock Phillips
Bringing a contemporary country sound and a strong sense of identity to his music, Brock Phillips is part of the next wave of Canadian artists gaining attention. His 2026 CCMA Breakthrough Artist nomination signals that his momentum is starting to translate across the industry.
4. Zach McPhee
A rising artist carving out his own space in Canadian country with an honest, modern approach to songwriting. His Breakthrough Artist nomination puts him firmly among the emerging names worth watching this year.
5. Josh Stumpf
With a sound rooted in modern country and an emphasis on relatable songwriting, Stumpf is building a profile worth following. His 2026 CCMA Breakthrough Artist nomination adds another major milestone to an already promising run.
6. Owen Riegling
Riegling has been steadily turning early momentum into a bigger presence across Canadian country. With a string of strong releases and growing attention from fans and radio, he’s quickly establishing himself as one of the genre’s rising names.
7. Tim Hicks
A longtime favourite who continues to evolve while staying true to the energetic, feel-good sound that has made him one of Canada’s most consistent country artists.
8. Cameron Whitcomb
After making a major impression on the international stage, Whitcomb continues to bring a distinctive energy to country music. His unconventional path and growing profile make him one of the more exciting Canadian artists to watch.
9. Nate Haller
Haller continues to make his mark with a run of releases that showcase his ability to balance modern country production with honest songwriting. His growing presence at radio and across the Canadian country scene points to an artist with plenty more ahead.
10. Alycia Hebert
A fresh voice bringing personality and authenticity to the Canadian country scene, with the talent and potential to make a major impact.
You can hear the latest from these artists, plus more of the Canadian country acts making waves right now, on the Top Country Radar playlist.
