COUNTRY RISING
PRESENTED BY COTTAGE SPRINGS
In 2025, Cottage Springs and Starseed Entertainment launched Country Rising Presented by Cottage Springs, a nationwide search for Canada’s Next Country Music Star, endorsed by multi-double-platinum duo The Reklaws.
More than a competition
Country Rising was built as a launchpad for emerging Canadian talent - giving new artists the opportunity to find their voice, take the stage, and shape the future of country music. From over 280 submissions across the country, four standout finalists were selected, each performing live while fans voted nationwide.
2025 Alumni
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MAC RUMBOLT
Mac Rumbolt of Hantsport, Nova Scotia, was crowned the 2025 winner. His raw, deeply personal songwriting - shaped by a life-altering accident at age 18 - stood out for its honesty and emotional impact. As the winner, Rumbolt earned a record deal with Starseed Records, a $10,000 cash prize, artist development support, and the opportunity to perform alongside The Reklaws at two Kee to Bala shows.
2026 Winner
Returning for its second year in 2026, Paige Penney was crowned the 2026 Country Rising winner after weeks of fan voting from coast to coast, with the announcement made live on Breakfast Television.
Originally from Newfoundland and now splitting her time between St. John's and Nashville, Penney's sound blends raw, honest storytelling with distinctive melodies and a voice that lingers long after the final note.
Her victory marks another milestone in Country Rising's mission to discover and elevate the next generation of Canadian country artists - and the journey continues, with more to come in early 2027.
Originally from Newfoundland and now splitting her time between St. John's and Nashville, Penney's sound blends raw, honest storytelling with distinctive melodies and a voice that lingers long after the final note.
Her victory marks another milestone in Country Rising's mission to discover and elevate the next generation of Canadian country artists - and the journey continues, with more to come in early 2027.
