Unsigned Canadian country artists—this could be your moment … Boots and Hearts Music Festival is once again searching for the next big name in country music with the return of their Emerging Artist Showcase (EAS) for 2025.
Every year, this national talent search offers one up-and-coming artist the opportunity of a lifetime … and it all kicks off today.
RELATED: See the full lineup for this year’s Boots and Hearts Music Festival …
Artists from coast to coast are encouraged to apply for a shot at a massive career boost, including a $10,000 cash prize, a single release with Universal Music Canada, a J-45 Special Gibson Guitar, artist development support from RLive Management, and even a VIP tour of the Gibson Garage in Nashville.
And the perks don’t stop at the winner—each of the seven remaining finalists will also receive a one-year STRUT VIP membership, giving them access to exclusive industry tools and support to help move their music careers forward.
This Is Where Country Careers Are Made
Held annually at Burl’s Creek Event Grounds, the EAS has helped launch the careers of artists like:
- Owen Riegling (2022 winner), who headlines this year’s Front Porch Stage on Saturday night
- Josh Ross (2017 finalist), now one of Canada’s hottest country stars
- James Barker Band (2015 winner), with multiple chart-topping hits
- Tim Hicks (2012 winner), who’s now a household name in Canadian country
- Sarah Vanderzon (2024 winner), who will be performing at this year’s Kick-Off Party alongside Tyler Joe Miller and Justin Moore
“This was the launchpad to my career,” says Sarah Vanderzon of her EAS experience. “I’ve been working on my art for years, hoping for that breakthrough moment.”
For many artists, EAS is exactly that: a breakthrough. A chance to play in front of thousands of fans, network with industry professionals, and make a mark on one of Canada’s biggest country stages.
How to Apply For The Boots and Hearts Emerging Artist Showcase
Submissions are officially open, and unsigned Canadian artists can apply now.
The showcase continues to be a cornerstone of Republic Live’s mission to champion Canadian country talent. “We’re excited to continue discovering and elevating the country’s brightest new voices,” says RLive Artist Manager Kate Howse.
So if you’ve been waiting for a sign—this is it. Get that phone out, turn on the camera, and make a video!
A Look Back at the 2024 Emerging Artist Showcase
Last year’s showcase was one for the books, with eight incredible finalists lighting up the stage at Boots & Hearts 2024:
Spencer Burns, Blue Ridge Band, Alexa Goldie, Erika Rollin, Cam Galloway, Sarah Vanderzon, Maddy McKenzie, and Bradley Hale.
After an exciting first round of performances, two artists rose to the top: Sarah Vanderzon and Blue Ridge Band. Both acts earned the chance to open for Nate Smith on the main stage, performing in front of thousands of festival-goers.
Listen To Our Conversation With Last Year’s Winner
In the end, it was Sarah Vanderzon who was crowned the 2024 Emerging Artist Showcase winner.
She’ll return to the festival this year, performing at the Kick-Off Party on August 7, sharing the stage with Tyler Joe Miller and headliner Justin Moore. Not bad for someone who just a year ago was vying for her breakout moment.
We spoke to Sarah shortly after her win, and she described the experience as one of the most meaningful moments of her career so far—and just the beginning of what’s ahead.
Logan Miller
As the founder of Front Porch Music, I believe that music has the ability to connect people. I love country music, and I love the country music industry as a whole. My goal is to help music fans find new artists to fall in love with.
