BEST COUNTRY ACT
NOMINEES 2024
Janet Devlin
Dublin, United Kindom
Janet Devlin, a nominee for Best Country Act, has captivated audiences with her unique blend of Northern Irish roots and heartfelt country storytelling. Rising to fame on The X Factor, her debut album Running With Scissors topped the Indie Breakers Chart, while her follow-up, Confessional, made the Billboard Top 100 in the US. Recently, she toured internationally with Russell Crowe and recorded in Nashville, further cementing her connection to country music. With her soulful vocals and introspective lyrics, Devlin continues to stand out as a refreshing and authentic voice in the country music scene.​
LUDLOW CREEK
United States, Dayton, OH
Ludlow Creek comprised of Allen Seals (guitar, mandolin, vocals), Dave Benson (guitar, vocals), Jeffrey Friend (drums, vocals), Michelle Scarpelli (keyboards, vocals), and Tom Scarpelli (bass, vocals), this group of seasoned musicians and close friends has a bond that transcends their music.With two full-length albums already making waves and a third on the horizon, Ludlow Creek is rapidly gaining recognition in the Indie/Americana/Roots Rock music scene. Their genuine approach to music, free from formulas and full of passion, makes them a standout nominee for Best Country Act.
BRAD SIMS
Canada, Grande Prairie
Brad Sims, an Alberta-born country singer, has long been a vibrant presence in the Canadian country music scene. From a young age, Brad has nurtured his passion for music, honing his skills through contests and performances in small-town shows. Over the years, his journey has seen him grace stages at numerous festivals, rodeos, charity events, and venues across Canada, especially within his home province.
A proud member of his local Metis Association, Brad is deeply committed to his community. He actively participates in traditional and addiction recovery shows, demonstrating the power of music as a medium for cultural connection and healing.
David Tucker
United States, Nashville
David Tucker’s self-titled debut EP marks an inspiring comeback for the Kentucky-born pop-country singer-songwriter, following life-altering challenges, including a rare autoimmune disease and a near-fatal car accident. This six-song collection, years in the making, showcases Tucker’s resilience and artistic evolution, blending vulnerable storytelling with his exceptional multi-instrumental talent. Co-produced with Jake Saghi and featuring contributions from top-tier songwriters like Nathan Chapman, the EP offers a soft, contemporary pop-rock sound. With tracks like Water It Down and the fan-favourite Useless, Tucker delivers a powerful, emotive experience that has earned him accolades from outlets like PEOPLE, CMT, and American Songwriter.
Samantha Rae
United States, Kingston NH
Samantha Rae, a vibrant pop-country artist from New England, has made waves as a headliner and opening act for stars like Lady A and Carly Pearce. Winning New England Country Music’s “Group of the Year” award in her first year, she’s now nominated for “Country Act of the Year” at the New England Music Awards. Collaborating with her manager Jay Dellisola, Samantha crafts her unique sound with trips to Nashville and Abbey Road Studios, bringing her energetic, sultry tone to modern country music.
BEST COUNTRY ACT
NOMINEES 2023
LUDLOW CREEK
United States, Dayton, OH
Ludlow Creek comprised of Allen Seals (guitar, mandolin, vocals), Dave Benson (guitar, vocals), Jeffrey Friend (drums, vocals), Michelle Scarpelli (keyboards, vocals), and Tom Scarpelli (bass, vocals), this group of seasoned musicians and close friends has a bond that transcends their music.With two full-length albums already making waves and a third on the horizon, Ludlow Creek is rapidly gaining recognition in the Indie/Americana/Roots Rock music scene. Their genuine approach to music, free from formulas and full of passion, makes them a standout nominee for Best Country Act.
BRAD SIMS
Canada, Grande Prairie
Brad Sims, an Alberta-born country singer, has long been a vibrant presence in the Canadian country music scene. From a young age, Brad has nurtured his passion for music, honing his skills through contests and performances in small-town shows. Over the years, his journey has seen him grace stages at numerous festivals, rodeos, charity events, and venues across Canada, especially within his home province.
A proud member of his local Metis Association, Brad is deeply committed to his community. He actively participates in traditional and addiction recovery shows, demonstrating the power of music as a medium for cultural connection and healing.
GLASS CABIN
United States, Nashville
Glass Cabin, a Nashville-based alt-country band, has made a significant impact in the music industry with their unique blend of country rock and Americana. Formed by the talented singer-songwriter Jess Brown and the versatile studio musician David Flint, Glass Cabin is known for their thought-provoking lyrics set against a rich folk-infused sonic landscape.
After a decade of co-producing other artists, Jess and David embarked on their own musical journey with the release of their self-titled album, "Glass Cabin," in October 2021. Their music has not only captured the hearts of listeners but has also gained recognition in the entertainment industry, with their songs being licensed on major networks like NBC, CBS, ABC, and streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, and Hallmark.
JIM HUDDLESTON
United States, Savannah, GA
Jim Huddleston, a Christian country singer-songwriter from Irving, Texas, whose life story deeply enriches his music. A disabled veteran, Jim's journey back to music is a testament to resilience and faith. Growing up in a small mobile home park, his early exposure to country music came through his father's participation in local bands. This early influence laid the foundation for his musical path.
After serving in the military and starting a family, Jim reignited his passion for music in 2020. His songs are expressions of his strong faith and the life experiences that have shaped him. Through his music, Jim aims to inspire and uplift, reminding listeners of the enduring power of faith and perseverance.
STEVEN HICKS
United States, Chapel Hill , N. C.
Steven Hicks, hailing from Georgia, has long been a dynamic force in the Atlanta music scene and beyond. As a founding member and the principal songwriter for The Painkillers and Truckstop Confidential, Steven has carved a niche for himself in the Americana and Roots music genres. His talent has been showcased across renowned venues like The Cotton Club, Smith’s Olde Bar, and The Masquerade, among others. He has also been a staple at various festivals in North Georgia, including multiple performances at the iconic Bubbapalooza festival.
Steven's work with Truckstop Confidential gained considerable acclaim, with their recordings being featured on over 160 radio stations nationwide and achieving success on the AMA chart. This recognition is a testament to his songwriting prowess and the resonant appeal of his music.
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