Joining the Grand Ole Opry is considered one of country music's highest honors — and it hasn't been offered to all of the genre's biggest stars.

In the ever-expanding lineup of best new country artists, there’s no shortage of up-and-coming country dudes. From folky songwriters to throwback crooners and rural rock stars, there’s something for every kind of fan – and The Tennessean is here to keep you in the know.

In this week's Country Update lead story, songwriters break down deceit in their lyrics.

Gary Stewart spent a few years on top, but was largely forgotten after his tragic death in 2003. Now a new generation is rediscovering the onetime “king of honky-tonk.”

This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more. This voice experience is generated by AI. Learn more. Ella Langley becomes the first artist to score multiple new No. 1 hits on Billboard's Country Airplay chart as "Be Her" ascends to the throne.

Andrews went viral last year for his “crash out” video in which he claimed that Trump supporters and MAGA can’t call themselves Christians. He hasn’t backed down since, and he recently released an album, “Independence Day,” in which he keeps the ball rolling.

Country music enjoyers have a chance to see some live music the weekend of July 31st to August 2nd, 2026. ACE Adventure Resort is holding their first ever country music festival, called Boots in the Gorge.

Trace Adkins is revisiting the night he nearly died after being shot by his then-wife, Julie Curtis, during an argument The Popular Country Music Star Opens Up About The Night His Ex-Wife Shot Him