Megan Moroney has made headlines by being named Best New Artist at the 2024 CMA Awards, held on November 20. The 27-year-old artist expressed her excitement and disbelief during her acceptance speech, stating, “I’m freaking out.” She took a moment to thank Jesus, her fans, her team, and Kristian Bush, a country music veteran who was instrumental in her early career.
Moroney’s journey has been anything but smooth. After moving to Nashville in 2020, she faced challenges in gaining recognition, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, her hard work paid off with the release of her debut EP and the hit song “Tennessee Orange,” which catapulted her into the spotlight and led to her first record deal. Her sophomore album, “Am I Okay?,” was released in July.
This year’s CMA Awards were significant for Moroney, who was previously nominated in 2023 for the same title. Under CMA guidelines, artists can be nominated in the New Artist category multiple times, and she was also recognized in the categories of Female Vocalist of the Year and Music Video of the Year for her co-directorial project, “I’m Not Pretty.”
Born on October 9, 1997, in Savannah, Georgia, Moroney was raised in a musically inclined family that nurtured her passion for music from a young age. She began singing and playing guitar in her teenage years and pursued a career in music after shifting her college major from accounting to digital marketing and music business at the University of Georgia.
Moroney’s breakthrough came with the release of “Tennessee Orange,” a song that reflects her playful take on love and team rivalry, which quickly endeared her to fans and propelled her onto the Billboard charts. She has drawn inspiration from various artists while establishing her distinctive sound, labeled as “emo cowgirl country.”
Looking ahead, she has exciting plans for 2025 with her upcoming tour, the “Am I Okay? Tour,” set to kick off in March. This momentum shows great promise for Moroney, suggesting she may continue to solidify her place in the country music scene.
Megan Moroney’s success story illustrates how resilience, hard work, and authenticity can lead to recognition and fulfillment in the arts, even in the face of adversity. As she continues her journey, fans can look forward to more heartfelt music and performances that represent her unique perspective.
Key Takeaways:
– Megan Moroney won Best New Artist at the 2024 CMA Awards.
– She faced challenges in Nashville during the pandemic but found success with her hit song “Tennessee Orange.”
– Moroney’s journey reflects her dedication to her craft and willingness to stay true to her musical identity.
– The future looks bright for Moroney as she prepares for her upcoming concert tour.
This story serves as a reminder of the power of perseverance and passion, resonating with many aspiring artists and music lovers alike.