Tennessee is a vibrant hub for emerging country artists, brimming with musical heritage and talent. The state’s capital, Nashville, aptly nicknamed “Music City,” is renowned for its deep-rooted connection to country music. It’s home to iconic venues like the Grand Ole Opry, the Ryman Auditorium, and the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Nashville stands as a global center for music recording and production, drawing musicians and artists from all corners of the world. Yet, some of your favorite country stars didn’t have to journey far—they were born right here in Tennessee!
From legendary icons to rising stars, Tennessee continues to cultivate extraordinary country music talent.
Here’s a list of 10 celebrated country artists, all hailing from Tennessee:
10 Country Singers From Tennessee
Dolly Parton
Dolly Parton, born on January 19, 1946, in Sevierville, Tennessee, is a true country music legend. She began her performing career as a child, singing on local radio and television shows in East Tennessee. By age 13, she had recorded her first single and appeared at the Grand Ole Opry. After moving to Nashville post-high school, Dolly’s songwriting prowess quickly caught the attention of major artists. Her career took off with hits like “Jolene,” “9 to 5,” and the iconic “I Will Always Love You.” Beyond her music, Dolly has made significant contributions as an actress, philanthropist, and businesswoman, notably with Dollywood, her theme park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee. Her Imagination Library initiative, which provides free books to children, further showcases her dedication to giving back.
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Kenny Chesney
Born on March 26, 1968, in Knoxville, Tennessee, Kenny Chesney grew up in nearby Luttrell. His musical journey began in college at East Tennessee State University, where he performed at local venues. After graduating in 1990, he moved to Nashville and started performing at various local clubs. His hard work paid off with the release of his first album, “In My Wildest Dreams,” in 1994. Kenny has since become one of country music’s biggest stars, known for his high-energy concerts and hits like “She Thinks My Tractor’s Sexy,” “No Shoes, No Shirt, No Problems,” and “American Kids.” His career boasts numerous awards and over 30 million albums sold. Kenny’s “No Shoes Nation” fanbase is one of the most dedicated in country music, reflecting his broad appeal and enduring popularity.
Kelsea Ballerini
Kelsea Ballerini, born on September 12, 1993, in Mascot, Tennessee, spent her childhood in Knoxville. She wrote her first song at age 12 as a Mother’s Day gift. At 15, she moved to Nashville to pursue her dreams. Her debut single, “Love Me Like You Mean It,” reached number one on the Billboard Country Airplay chart in 2015, making her the first female artist since Carrie Underwood to achieve this with a debut single. Kelsea has continued to rise in the country music scene with hits like “Peter Pan,” “Dibs,” and “Miss Me More.” Her fresh sound and relatable lyrics have made her a favorite among the new generation of country fans. Kelsea’s openness about her personal life and experiences has endeared her to fans, making her not just a singer, but a relatable figure.
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Chris Young
Chris Young, born on June 12, 1985, in Murfreesboro, Tennessee, discovered his love for music early, participating in children’s theater and his high school choir. His big break came when he won the TV competition “Nashville Star” in 2006, which led to a contract with RCA Records. Chris quickly made a name for himself with hits like “Gettin’ You Home (The Black Dress Song),” “The Man I Want to Be,” and “Tomorrow.” Known for his rich baritone voice and traditional country style, Chris has earned numerous awards and nominations, solidifying his place in the country music industry. His dedication to his craft and connection with his fans have made him a staple on the country music scene, continuously releasing chart-topping albums and singles.
Kane Brown
Kane Brown, born on October 21, 1993, in Chattanooga, Tennessee, grew up in northwest Georgia and the Chattanooga area. His journey into country music began in high school after nearly winning a talent show. Kane gained initial fame through social media, posting videos of himself singing covers of popular songs. His debut single, “Used to Love You Sober,” went viral, leading to a record deal. Kane’s blend of country, R&B, and pop has produced hits like “Heaven,” “What Ifs,” and “Good as You.” As a trailblazer for diversity in country music, Kane has broken barriers and garnered a dedicated fan base. His heartfelt lyrics and genre-crossing style have brought a fresh perspective to country music, making him one of the most influential artists of his generation.
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Rodney Atkins
Rodney Atkins, born on March 28, 1969, in Knoxville, Tennessee, began writing songs while attending Tennessee Tech University. In the mid-nineties, he moved to Nashville, determined to break into the music industry. Rodney’s breakthrough came with his 2006 album “If You’re Going Through Hell,” which produced four number-one hits, including the title track and “Watching You.” Known for his relatable storytelling and down-to-earth style, Rodney has continued to produce hits like “These Are My People” and “Take a Back Road.” His music resonates with fans for its heartfelt lyrics and genuine country sound. Rodney’s ability to capture everyday moments and emotions in his songs has made him a beloved figure in country music, consistently delivering music that feels both personal and universal.
Jelly Roll
Jelly Roll, born Jason DeFord on December 4, 1984, in the Antioch neighborhood of Nashville, Tennessee, initially made a name for himself in the hip-hop and rap scenes, selling mixtapes out of his car. His pivot to country music has been marked by raw, emotional lyrics and a unique blend of styles. His breakout country hit, “Son Of A Sinner,” showcases his storytelling ability and deep connection to his roots. Jelly Roll’s journey from the streets of Nashville to mainstream success highlights his versatility and resilience, making him a compelling figure in the country music landscape. His authentic approach to music and life has earned him a loyal following, proving that genuine artistry can transcend genre boundaries.
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Hillary Scott
Hillary Scott, born on April 1, 1986, in Nashville, Tennessee, grew up surrounded by music, as her mother is country music singer Linda Davis. At 14, Hillary decided to pursue a career in country music. In 2006, she co-founded Lady Antebellum (now Lady A) with Charles Kelley and Dave Haywood. The group’s rich harmonies and blend of country, pop, and rock quickly garnered attention. Hits like “Need You Now,” “Just a Kiss,” and “American Honey” have earned Lady A multiple Grammy Awards and a dedicated fan base. Hillary’s powerful vocals and heartfelt performances are central to the band’s enduring success. Her ability to convey deep emotions through her singing has made her a standout artist, influencing countless fans and fellow musicians.
Morgan Wallen
Morgan Wallen, born on May 13, 1993, in Sneedville, Tennessee, grew up with a strong musical foundation, taking piano and violin lessons in his youth. His journey to fame began on “The Voice” in 2014, where he was a contestant. After the show, he moved to Nashville and signed with Big Loud Records. Morgan’s blend of country rock and modern country has produced hits like “Whiskey Glasses,” “Up Down,” and “7 Summers.” Despite controversies, Morgan has remained a prominent figure in country music, known for his distinctive voice and relatable lyrics. His ability to connect with listeners through his raw and honest storytelling has solidified his place in the genre, making him one of the most talked-about artists in recent years.
Dustin Lynch
Born on May 14, 1985, in Tullahoma, Tennessee, Dustin Lynch discovered his passion for music early, starting to play guitar at age 8. After a brief hiatus, he resumed playing at 15 and began performing at a local café, which inspired him to form a band. Dustin moved to Nashville to attend Lipscomb University and pursue music. His debut single, “Cowboys and Angels,” catapulted him into the spotlight in 2012. With hits like “Where It’s At (Yep, Yep),” “Small Town Boy,” and “Ridin’ Roads,” Dustin has established himself as a mainstay in country music, known for his smooth vocals and catchy tunes. His consistent ability to produce chart-topping hits and his engaging live performances have earned him a loyal fan base, cementing his status as a leading artist in the country music scene.
This list showcases just a glimpse of the remarkable talent that Tennessee has brought to the country music scene. The state’s rich musical heritage continues to inspire and cultivate exceptional artists who leave a lasting impact on the genre.
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