Meet the Nominees: CMA Awards New Artist of the Year 2024
Shaboozey and Zach Top are once again in the running for the prestigious Country Music Association's New Artist of the Year award, as announced on Good Morning America. The category also includes Ella Langley, Tucker Wetmore, and Stephen Wilson Jr. The full list of CMA Awards nominees will be revealed later today. Despite the category's name, artists can be nominated multiple times, as seen with past winners like Megan Moroney, Morgan Wallen, and Luke Combs.
Shaboozey had a standout year in 2024 with the success of his hit song "A Bar Song (Tipsy)" and album "Where I've Been, Isn't Where I'm Going." He recently released the "Complete Edition" of the album, featuring popular tracks like "Good News" and "Blink Twice." If he wins, Shaboozey will join the ranks of Darius Rucker and Jimmie Allen as the third black artist to win the New Artist of the Year award.
Zach Top also made waves in 2024 with his debut album "Cold Beer & Country Music," which reached Number 4 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and included the hit single "I Never Lie." His sophomore album, "Ain't In It for My Health," was released in August. Tucker Wetmore's debut album "What Not To" dropped in April, featuring country hits like "Wind Up Missin' You" and "3,2,1." Ella Langley, a previous CMA Awards winner for Musical Event of the Year in 2024, collaborated with Riley Green on the hit song "You Look Like You Love Me."
Stephen Wilson Jr., a former microbiologist turned musician, is a unique nominee this year. Despite not achieving the same commercial success as his peers, Wilson has garnered a dedicated following with his blend of classic country and indie influences. His debut album "Son of Dad" was released in 2023, and he recently put out a covers EP titled "Blankets."
The competition for the New Artist of the Year award at the 59th annual CMA Awards is fierce, with each nominee bringing their own distinct style and achievements to the table. Stay tuned for the full list of CMA Awards nominees to be announced later today.