CMT unveiled the 14 emerging
artists selected as this year's Next Women of Country during a showcase event
held at City Winery Nashville.
CMT Next Women of Country: Class of 2024 |
For over a decade, the program has been dedicated to highlighting and supporting the development of female talent. The 2024 class of rising stars includes: Anne Wilson, Denitia, Ella Langley, Emily Ann Roberts, HunterGirl, Karley Scott Collins, Kylie Frey, Lauren Watkins, Madeline Merlo, Mae Estes, Tanner Adell, The Castellows, Tigirlily Gold, and Twinnie.
The announcement of this year's
lineup took place at an invite-only event co-hosted by CMT's Leslie Fram and
singer-songwriter Kimberly Perry of The Band Perry. Special guest Colbie
Caillat joined the duo, and all three will serve as mentors for the Next Women
of Country program.
Leslie Fram expressed her enthusiasm, stating, "It's an honor and a privilege to welcome this latest group of artists to CMT's Next Women of Country. For the past 10 years, this franchise has represented the best and brightest new talent in all of country music, and this year is no exception.
From the UK
and Canada to California and the deep South, these women all have their own
unique stories to tell, and we can't wait to introduce them to CMT audiences in
creative and meaningful ways."
Fram also announced a new year-long
partnership with the female singer-songwriter collective Song Suffragettes,
aiming to work towards "greater
parity for underrepresented female voices in our format."
Throughout the year, the featured artists will be highlighted across CMT's platforms, along with cross-platform opportunities on MTV. Additionally, they will participate in advocacy initiatives, focusing on voter registration and mental health.
With the inclusion of these new
artists, CMT notes that 125 female acts have been part of Next Women of
Country. Some notable alumni from the program include Ashley McBryde, Brandy
Clark, Kacey Musgraves, Kelsea Ballerini, Lainey Wilson, and Maren Morris.
A special episode of CMT Hot 20 Countdown, celebrating the 2024 class, is scheduled to air on February 10.