Kelsea Ballerini, Cam Lead CRS New Faces Lineup
In what certainly looks like a hopeful sign for country radio, a surprisingly diverse lineup of artists has been announced as performers for the 2016 New Faces of Country Music Show on February 10th. Slated to make appearances are Brothers Osborne, Kelsea Ballerini, Cam, Old Dominion and Chris Janson.
The annual dinner showcase closes Country Radio Seminar, the industry confab of panels and showcases geared to foster the growth of the radio industry as well as introduce new artists to tastemakers. Long one of CRS week’s most anticipated events, New Faces regularly serves as a launching pad for future superstars. Past artists to play New Faces include Zac Brown Band (2009), Dierks Bentley (2004), Faith Hill (1994) and even George Strait (1982). By comparison to the 2016 lineup, the 2015 show was heavily male, with Sam Hunt, Frankie Ballard, Cole Swindell and Eric Paslay sharing a bill with Maddie & Tae.
Each of the named artists has enjoyed some significant milestones in 2015. Brothers Osborne currently have a Top 10 hit with “Stay a Little Longer” and their debut album Pawn Shop will be out January 15th, while Chris Janson will add his high intensity performances to Blake Shelton’s winter tour starting February 18th. Old Dominion will have a choice spot to support their new album Meat and Candy when they join Kenny Chesney’s summer 2016 tour. Cam’s “Burning House” has ignited on country radio and her debut album Untamed hits stores December 11th. Kelsea Ballerini previously made history with her Number One “Love Me Like You Mean It” and is bringing out pop star guests like Tori Kelly to sing with her.
Country Radio Seminar 2016 takes place February 8th through the 10th at the Omni Hotel in downtown Nashville.