CRS New Faces Of Country Music: Style

By Paige Atwell

With spring comes one of country music’s exciting events: The annual Country Radio Seminar (CRS.) Each year, CRS announces a panel of up-and-coming artist who they deem the new faces of country music. Besides their abundance of talent, another thing that draws us to these artist are their unique style and how it is reflected through their music.

Frankie Ballard-

Frankie Ballard spent a long time struggling on the road before finally making it into the public spotlight with his two top 30 singles “Tell Me You Get Lonely,” and “A Buncha Girls.” He also went on to appear at The Grande Ole Opry and played packed arenas on tour for artist such as Kenney Chesney and Taylor Swift. Ballard recently released his album Sunshine And Whiskey. Ballard’s fashion is usually as raw as his music. We often spot him in a fitted tee accessorized with an edgy jacket or jewelry piece. However, he isn’t a stranger to taking risks. At last years ACM’s Ballard was the talk of the ceremony in an electric blue tribal-stitched suit.

Eric Paslay-

Truthfully, we could ramble a while about Eric Paslay’s relatable songs, or the abundant success of his music, but the real reason we are obsessed with him can be summed up in two words: hat and beard. Eric Paslay is widely popular for his simplistic, original style. His popularity stems from the fact that despite his growing fan base, he has managed to stay one hundred percent true to himself, and it shows in his style. On an average day, we might see him strutting a wholesome flannel and tee, while for a special occasion we see him adding a textured blazer or wide belt with jeans to dress up his look.

Sam Hunt-

This football player turned country star is known for more than just his incredible sound. Lyricist turned performer, Sam Hunt has stolen the hearts of country music fans. When it comes to fashion, it doesn’t take much to make this heart throb look good. Hunt keeps it simple, usually sticking to a black and white color pallet. From awards shows to concerts, Hunt ranges from suits to tees but manages to stick to his same simplistic style. On occasion, we might find him switching it up by adding a snap back for causal appearances.

Maddie & Tae-

Whether it be style or music, these ladies have yet to disappoint. Since moving to Nashville in 2013, this duo has been lighting the music scene on fire with their feministic and truthful tunes. Their EP is now available on I tunes. Since stepping into the music scene, we have yet to have any complaints. These girls have the classic new country bohemian vibe with lace and flowey pieces while adding in some old school country aspects such as cowboy boots or light denim.

Cole Swindell-

Cole Swindell is perhaps the newest of these artists to the spotlight, but we can’t help to be obsessed with his country boy charm. His music is what some might call ‘summertime country.’ When it comes to his wardrobe, he isn’t much different than his sound. Swindell can often be spotted in a laid back Tee or Henley paired with denim. But we can’t forget the one piece that has stapled him to his fans; the hat. Hardly ever will you find Swindell without his navy infamous ‘CS’ hat. From the streets to the red carpet, this accessory is a necessity.