Cottage Springs and Starseed Entertainment have officially launched Country Rising presented by Cottage Springs, a nationwide talent search to discover Canada’s next big country music star.
With support from multi-double-platinum duo The Reklaws, this competition offers an incredible opportunity for emerging artists to take their careers to the next level.
A Nationwide Search for Country’s Next Big Star
As a brand that brings people together, Cottage Springs sees country music as the perfect companion to good times with friends. “Country Rising aims to nurture homegrown talent and support the next generation of Canadian country artists,” says Laura Butler Synnott, Senior Brand Manager of Cottage Springs. “We’re proud to be helping emerging musicians find their voice, their stage, and their place in the future of country music.”
The competition will select three finalists, who will perform at Hockeyfest events across Ontario in May.
One winner will receive a record deal with Starseed Entertainment and an extensive artist development package, including songwriting workshops, media training, and a professionally produced recording session.
They’ll also receive a $10,000 cash prize and an opening performance slot for The Reklaws’ 2025 Kee to Bala shows on August 1 and 2.
The Reklaws Pay It Forward
The Reklaws, who got their own start through an artist discovery program, are thrilled to give back to the next wave of talent.
“An artist discovery program changed our lives just over a decade ago, so we’re incredibly honoured to be ambassadors for Country Rising,” the duo shared. “We know the power that resources and support can bring to someone just starting out in the industry, and that’s why we’re so excited to work with Cottage Springs to give the winning artist the opportunity of a lifetime.”
Country Rising: More Than Just a Competition
According to Starseed Entertainment CEO Adam Skuse, this initiative is about long-term development, not just a one-time prize. “Country Rising isn’t just about naming a winner and wishing them good luck—it’s about offering continued value and opportunity,” he explains. “Developing emerging artists has been the mission of Starseed since day one, and thanks to Cottage Springs, we’ve created a new opportunity to help us identify and elevate new artists.”
For aspiring country artists who have been writing songs in their bedrooms, playing small-town bars, and dreaming of a breakthrough, this competition could be life-changing.
How to Enter
Submissions are now open at CottageSprings.ca/CountryRising, with the deadline set for April 20, 2025. Don’t miss your chance to turn your country music dreams into reality!
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.
