Country Stars Who Rose to Fame Overnight

Country Music’s Fast-Track to Fame

Country music has a long history of stars who have climbed their way to the top. But some artists seemed to skyrocket to fame almost overnight.

Their talent, timing, and a little bit of luck took them from unknowns to household names.

In this slideshow, we’ll look at some of these country music stars who suddenly found themselves in the spotlight.

1. Taylor Swift

Before rising to pop stardom, Taylor Swift first made a name for herself in the country music world. In 2006, her debut single “Tim McGraw” hit the charts, and she quickly became a sensation.

The song’s success helped her gain national attention almost overnight. Swift’s relatable lyrics and girl-next-door charm made her a fan favorite.

Her self-titled debut album went multi-platinum, and it wasn’t long before she was winning awards. Swift’s rapid rise in country music helped her transition into pop, where she became one of the biggest stars in the world.

2. Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood shot to fame in 2005 when she won the fourth season of American Idol . Her powerful voice and down-to-earth personality made her a favorite from the start.

After her victory, Underwood released her debut single, “Inside Your Heaven,” which quickly topped the Billboard Hot 100.

Her debut album, Some Hearts , became the top-selling country album of 2006, solidifying her position as a country music star. In just a few months, Underwood went from a small-town girl to one of the biggest names in country music.

3. Luke Combs

Luke Combs is another artist whose career skyrocketed in a short time. His debut single, “ Hurricane ,” was independently released and gained popularity on social media.

In 2017, the song hit No. 1 on the country charts after he signed with a record label.

Combs’ relatable lyrics and authentic country sound resonated with fans, leading to the massive success of his debut album, This One’s for You . His rise to fame was swift, and he has since become a leading voice in modern country music.

4. Kacey Musgraves

Kacey Musgraves’ rise to fame was a bit unconventional. She gained attention in 2013 with her debut album, Same Trailer Different Park , and the hit single “ Merry Go ‘Round .”

The song’s heartfelt lyrics and Musgraves’ distinct sound allowed her to shine in the competitive country music scene.

Despite not fitting the mold of a traditional country star, Musgraves quickly won over critics and fans alike. Her music, which often challenges country conventions, earned her multiple Grammy Awards and widespread recognition.

5. Scotty McCreery

At just 17 years old, Scotty McCreery won American Idol in 2011, transforming his life forever.

His deep voice and traditional country style made him a standout on the show. After his win, he released his debut single, “I Love You This Big,” which became a hit.

McCreery’s debut album, Clear as Day , went platinum, and he became one of the youngest country stars to achieve such success. His overnight fame propelled him to the top of the charts and opened doors for a long-lasting career in country music.

6. Morgan Wallen

Morgan Wallen’s journey to fame took off rapidly after the release of his breakout hit “Whiskey Glasses” in 2018. The song became a massive hit, topping the country charts and earning him widespread fame. Wallen’s unique voice and catchy tunes helped him gain a large following quickly.

Before “Whiskey Glasses,” Wallen had been a contestant on The Voice , but it wasn’t until this song that he truly broke through. His debut album, If I Know Me , became a fan favorite, solidifying his status as a rising country star.

7. Miranda Lambert

Miranda Lambert gained national attention after finishing third on Nashville Star in 2003.

Although she didn’t win, her powerful voice and fiery personality caught the attention of country fans and industry insiders. Her debut album, Kerosene , was a hit, producing several popular singles.

Lambert’s success didn’t stop there. She swiftly rose to become one of the most celebrated and popular female artists in country music. Her rise to fame was rapid, and she remains one of the genre’s top stars.

8. Chris Stapleton

Chris Stapleton had long been a respected songwriter before his big break came in 2015.

His performance with Justin Timberlake at the CMA Awards went viral, propelling him into the spotlight. Almost overnight, Stapleton became a household name.

His debut album, Traveller , released earlier that year, skyrocketed the charts. Stapleton’s raw, soulful voice and blend of country and blues made him a standout in the genre.

His rapid rise to fame earned him multiple awards and a loyal fanbase.

9. Gabby Barrett

Gabby Barrett found fame after finishing third on American Idol in 2018, but it was her debut single “I Hope” that truly launched her career.

The song turned into a crossover sensation, reaching the top of both the country and pop charts. Barrett’s powerful voice and relatable lyrics resonated with fans across genres.

Her debut album, Goldmine , was a major success, earning widespread critical acclaim and attracting a rapidly growing fanbase. Barrett’s rise to stardom was swift, and she is now considered one of the top young talents in country music.

10. Kane Brown

Kane Brown’s journey to stardom started online. He first gained attention by sharing videos of himself singing covers on social media.

In 2015, his original song “Used to Love You Sober” went viral, which led to a record deal. Brown’s mix of country and R&B influences helped him stand out in the industry.

His debut album went platinum, and he quickly became one of the biggest names in country music. Brown’s rise to fame was rapid, thanks to his unique style and strong connection with fans.

11. Maddie & Tae

Maddie & Tae burst onto the country music scene in 2014 with their debut single “Girl in a Country Song.”

The song, which humorously criticized the portrayal of women in country music, became an instant hit. The duo’s witty lyrics and fresh sound made them an overnight sensation.

Their debut album, Start Here , followed in 2015, solidifying their place in the industry. Maddie & Tae’s quick rise to fame showed that they were more than just one-hit wonders.

12. Hunter Hayes

Hunter Hayes was only 19 when he released his debut single, “Storm Warning,” in 2011.

The song quickly gained attention, but it was his next single, “Wanted,” that truly catapulted him to fame. The song topped the country charts and made Hayes a household name.

His self-titled debut album went platinum, and he became one of the youngest male country stars to achieve such success. Hayes’ swift rise to stardom highlighted his talent as both a singer and songwriter.

13. Maren Morris

Maren Morris saw her career take off in 2016 with the release of her debut single, “My Church.”

The song quickly climbed the country charts and earned her a Grammy Award. Morris’ blend of country, pop, and soul made her a standout in the industry.

Her debut album, Hero , was a commercial success, and Morris’ star continued to rise. In just a few short years, she emerged as one of the leading female artists in country music.

14. Billy Ray Cyrus

Billy Ray Cyrus is a prime example of an overnight sensation.

In 1992, his debut single “Achy Breaky Heart” became a huge hit, topping the country charts and successfully crossing over into the pop genre. The song’s success made Cyrus an instant star, and his debut album, Some Gave All , topped the charts for months.

Cyrus’ rise to fame was rapid, and while “Achy Breaky Heart” remains his most well-known hit, it launched a career that has spanned decades.

15. Jimmie Allen

Jimmie Allen’s rise to fame came with the release of his debut single “Best Shot” in 2018.

The song swiftly ascended the country charts, bringing him significant recognition. Allen’s heartfelt lyrics and smooth voice made him a favorite among country fans.

His debut album, Mercury Lane , was a commercial success, and Allen’s quick rise to fame made him one of the most promising new artists in country music.

Want to explore his biggest hits? Check out a deep dive into Jimmie Allen’s musical journey and the impact of his greatest songs.

16. Florida Georgia Line

Florida Georgia Line skyrocketed to fame in 2012 with their debut single “ Cruise .”

The song became a massive hit, topping the country charts and crossing over to pop radio. “ Cruise ” became one of the best-selling country singles in history, turning the duo into overnight sensations.

Their debut album, Here’s to the Good Times , was a huge success, and Florida Georgia Line quickly became one of the biggest acts in country music. Their unique blend of country, pop, and rock helped them stand out in the industry.

Interested in what led to their split? Take an inside look at the split of the Florida Georgia Line and what went wrong for the famous duo.