Discover the Best New Country Music and Artists in California

From the gritty honky-tonks that created the “Bakersfield Sound” to the legendary clubs of Los Angeles, California has always been a trailblazer in country music. The Golden State is home to a unique blend of West Coast cool, classic storytelling, and rock-and-roll energy. We’re here to introduce you to the up-and-coming singers, songwriters, and bands who are continuing this legacy and shaping the sound of California’s next generation.

California is currently listening to

  • Jelly Roll
  • Morgan Wallen
  • Scotty McCreery
  • Luke Combs
  • Jordan Davis

This curated list, updated for Fall/Winter, showcases the rising stars making waves across the state. From sun-drenched country pop to neo-traditional honky-tonk, listen to their latest tracks and discover the diverse sound of modern California.

Emerging in California

Austin Martin and the Herd

Hailing from the unlikeliest of places – a ranch just outside Billings, Montana – Austin’s influences are as diverse as his sound. Imagine the raw storytelling of George Strait colliding with the rhythmic energy of Migos, the stage presence of Elvis Presley infused with the lyrical heart of John Mayer, all seasoned with the classic grit of Willie Nelson. This unique blend culminates in a signature style that seamlessly weaves modern trap and urban beats with traditional instrumentation, all delivered with country lyrics and a country hip-hop flow that feels both fresh and undeniably authentic.

Explore The California Local Music Scene by County

Country music is local. Whether you’re in a major city or a small rural town, there’s a unique sound to be found. To help you discover talent in your own backyard, we’ve created a page for every county in California. Select a county below to drill down and find artists in your specific area.

  • Alameda County
  • Alpine County
  • Amador County
  • Butte County
  • Calaveras County
  • Colusa County
  • Contra Costa County
  • Del Norte County
  • El Dorado County
  • Fresno County
  • Glenn County
  • Humboldt County
  • Imperial County
  • Inyo County
  • Kern County
  • Kings County
  • Lake County
  • Lassen County
  • Los Angeles County
  • Madera County
  • Marin County
  • Mariposa County
  • Mendocino County
  • Merced County
  • Modoc County
  • Mono County
  • Monterey County
  • Napa County
  • Nevada County
  • Orange County
  • Placer County
  • Plumas County
  • Riverside County
  • Sacramento County
  • San Benito County
  • San Bernardino County
  • San Diego County
  • San Francisco
  • San Joaquin County
  • San Luis Obispo County
  • San Mateo County
  • Santa Barbara County
  • Santa Clara County
  • Santa Cruz County
  • Shasta County
  • Sierra County
  • Siskiyou County
  • Solano County
  • Sonoma County
  • Stanislaus County
  • Sutter County
  • Tehama County
  • Trinity County
  • Tulare County
  • Tuolumne County
  • Ventura County
  • Yolo County
  • Yuba County

Are You the Next Big Country Artist in California?

We want to hear from you. If you’re a local artist making original country music anywhere in California, we want to help you reach new fans. Our platform is designed to spotlight emerging talent from every corner of the country.