Artist To Watch: Black Opry Residency

With looks that don’t match expectations, showing up for gigs has sometimes started with an awkward or even unpleasant welcome for country musician Tylar Bryant. But that’s not stopped him from pursuing his passion. From an unusual encounter on a school bus to a chance meeting with a visionary who gave him the community he didn’t know he needed, this Texas native finds serendipity woven throughout his budding career as a B...

Wisconsin-native and Philly-based songwriter Samantha Rise discovered the power of a simple song amidst the raw beauty of Wyoming. From their activism to their pursuits in non-profits and theater, Samantha Rise's journey through professions and song stylings, has been driven by a search for belonging.  Now as a self-proclaimed ‘songcatcher, ‘ Samantha Rise aims to inspire change, foster connections, and create a community ...

Grace Givertz, a talented songwriter living in Boston, has defied the odds in pursuit of her calling. Grace grew up in Jupiter, Florida - a wealthy, beachside Miami suburb. But her family was very much in the minority because they were Black and poor. Grace’s humble beginnings were also marked by chronic medical challenges. But she has found solace and creative inspiration through the healing power of music. In pursuing he...

The harmonizing familial duo, the Kentucky Gentlemen, have been nearly inseparable since birth. Hailing from a small town in Kentucky, twins Brandon and Derek Campbell have spent much of their lives being boxed in by in-accurate assumptions and stereotypes. After moving to Nashville, the brothers were forced to face two of their biggest obstacles: being black and gay in a historically cut-throat and exclusive scene. But th...

Denitia grew up outside of Houston, Texas in the 80’s and 90’s. As a kid, she was obsessed with country artists like George Strait and Reba McEntire. But when she started writing her own music, Denitia drew inspiration from rock bands like Matchbox 20 and Third Eye Blind. Denitia’s path to making country music passes through Nashville, Austin, NYC, and the Hudson Valley. In this final episode of Artist To Watch Season 1, y...