Josh Ross (born February 11, 1996) is a Canadian country singer-songwriter known for his emotional lyrics and blending contemporary country sounds with a touch of rock.
Hailing from Burlington, Ontario, Ross has rapidly gained recognition both in Canada and the United States. His authentic storytelling and heartfelt performances have positioned him as one of the most promising voices in country music today.
Early Life and Background
Josh Ross grew up in Burlington, Ontario, where sports, particularly football, played a significant role in his early life.
He pursued athletics seriously, even playing football at Western University in London, Ontario. However, after a major injury, Ross redirected his focus towards music, a passion he had fostered since childhood.
Ross relocated to Nashville, Tennessee, the epicentre of country music, to chase his musical dreams.
His move to Nashville allowed him to immerse himself in the industry, where he honed his songwriting and performance skills, taking cues from country greats while carving out his own unique sound.
Career Breakthrough and Early Singles
“Born with a Boyfriend”
Josh Ross’s career began its upward trajectory with the release of his single Born with a Boyfriend.
This 2022 release put him on the map with its infectious melody and clever lyrical take on the complexities of love and heartbreak.
“First Taste of Gone”
Ross’ ability to capture raw emotion in his music was further showcased with First Taste of Gone, also released in 2022.
This single marked a significant point in Ross’s career, becoming a breakout hit and earning a spot on country music charts in both Canada and the U.S. The ballad deals with the heartache and reflection that comes with a breakup, and it quickly resonated with fans.
In a candid interview with Front Porch Music, Ross shared that the song came from a very personal place, speaking to his experience with love and loss.
Listen To Our Conversation With Josh Ross – We Covered A LOT Of Ground
Josh Ross’ Collaborations and Touring
Tour with Parker McCollum
In 2023, Josh Ross had the opportunity to open for American country singer Parker McCollum, which further cemented his presence on the North American country scene.
The tour allowed Ross to perform in front of larger crowds across the U.S. and expand his fanbase. Ross discussed his tour experience with us, emphasizing how much he learned from performing alongside an established star like McCollum.
He credits this tour with helping him grow as an artist and strengthening his stage presence.
“Matching Tattoos”
Another pivotal release in 2023 was Josh Ross’s single Matching Tattoos, which explored the themes of love, commitment, and the memories tied to relationships. The song further showcased his ability to write relatable lyrics that resonate deeply with his audience.
Ross’s growth as an artist was evident in this release, as he continued to explore personal stories through his music.
Podcast Feature: On the Porch with Front Porch Music
Josh Ross’s journey was also featured on the On the Porch with Front Porch Music podcast, where he sat down with hosts Logan Miller and Jenna Weishar.
In this episode, Ross gave listeners a behind-the-scenes look at his creative process, discussing the inspiration behind his songs, including Born with a Boyfriend and First Taste of Gone. He also shared his experiences touring, writing new material, and the importance of staying grounded as his career continues to take off.
His appearance on the podcast further solidified his connection with fans by offering them an authentic and intimate view of his life as a musician.
Josh Wins His First CMA Award
At the 2024 CMA Awards, Josh Ross received a surprise on the red carpet when co-host Luke Bryan presented him with the Jeff Walker Global Country Artist Award. This prestigious honour celebrates international artists making a significant impact in country music.
The Burlington, Ontario, native was emotional as he accepted the award, calling it a “very special night” during his first-ever CMA Awards appearance.
Watch the moment that he was surprised with this award.
Personal Life and Influences of Josh Ross
While Josh Ross is relatively private about his personal life, his music offers insights into his emotions and experiences. He often draws from his own life when writing, with many of his songs reflecting on relationships, both past and present.
In interviews, Ross has cited country music legends as major influences, while also noting the impact of rock and pop in shaping his sound.
His ability to merge these genres has set him apart in the industry, helping him create a distinct musical identity.
In country music, the Front Porch has long been a place of reflection. A place where you can look at the life you have inside that front door. A place where time almost seems to stand still, where you can get away. It’s also a place where you can go to observe the world as it passes by you. To think about your place out there beyond the driveway.
