Bringing the legendary Whiskey Jam spirit north of the border, Canada’s First Whisky Jam showcased the next wave of incredible artists. Just like its Nashville roots, this event is a proving ground for raw talent. For the artists, it’s a stage to make their mark. For the audience, it’s the best place to discover original music while raising a glass in the perfect setting.

In the ever-evolving landscape of country music, a new generation of artists is making waves, bringing fresh perspectives and unique sounds to the industry. I had the opportunity to interview 4 of the performing artists and the founder of Whiskey Jam, Ward Guenther.

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Dalton Davis, a dynamic singer-songwriter, has captured audiences with his heartfelt storytelling and dedication to both his craft and his character. Having shared the stage with industry icons and achieved impressive streaming milestones, Davis continues to forge his path with a focus on staying true to himself and his roots.

You’ve had the opportunity to support big names like Dwight Yoakam, Midland, and Dasha. What’s the one key takeaway from performing alongside such iconic artists?

Dalton Davis: That if you focus just as much on being a good hang and being a good person on the road as you do on performing your craft, you’ll get asked to come back. I think that’s the biggest thing we’ve noticed. You definitely see people who take the moment a little bit for granted, and they don’t always get asked back. So we’re like, OK, how can we be as helpful as possible while we’re here so we can come back again? Just helping everyone out so that they want you back. Be a good person.

Your single “Sit Crooked” has surpassed 500,000 global streams. What was the inspiration behind that track, and how did it feel to see it resonate so well with listeners?

Dalton Davis: It’s a wild feeling for sure. “Sit Crooked” is a theme that we’ve made multiple iterations of over the years. It comes from an old-school Southern saying: “Let’s sit crooked and talk straight,” meaning let’s sit down, have a drink, and talk about our woes. The song was originally based on that. When I moved to Nashville, I got in a room with Jonathan Singleton and Eric Gillan, two legendary Nashville writers. We were talking, and I have a wild family history, so the theme lined up with it. We decided to chase that, and it turned into what we have now. Seeing the streams is unreal. I come from a very small town in North Carolina. Never did I think we’d cross half a million last month and be closing in on a million now. It’s insane, especially since I can still see my old songs from before Nashville that only had a couple hundred streams. Seeing that contrast is crazy.

Your music has been featured on prominent playlists like Today’s Country and Country Risers. How do these placements influence your career, and how do you approach your music differently, knowing it could be heard on such a wide platform?

Dalton Davis: It’s just opening up so many opportunities. Toronto, for example, is my number one streaming city in the world, which is crazy. Seeing how it’s affecting things is just insane. I don’t think I’m necessarily approaching music differently because of it, though. The goal has always been to get as many ears and eyes on what we’re doing. This is just the best avenue we have right now, and we’re going to keep going. As long as we keep approaching music the same way, I think the audience will continue to accept it.

Being sponsored by Malbon Golf and the Willie Nelson Collection is such a unique partnership. How do your personal style and interests outside of music influence your brand as an artist?

Dalton Davis: I think that’s why we got that brand partnership. Malbon reached out and said they’d love for me to be the face of the Willie Nelson Club. They also reached out to my creative agency, which I run with some friends, and instead of sending their whole production crew to Tennessee, they wanted to work with us because of our aesthetic and approach. They asked if we could shoot the campaign ourselves, so we did all of it with just our friends, creating something that appealed to us. It’s cool getting to work with such a prestigious brand through the lens of how Dalton Davis would approach country music and golf together.

You’re signed to Universal Music Publishing Group and clearly on a major trajectory. What’s next for Dalton Davis in terms of music or collaborations?

Dalton Davis: We have a new single coming out on March 21st called “So Far So Good.” I wrote it with Ryan Tyndell, who wrote “Springsteen” for Eric Church and other hits. We have a music video coming up that I’m excited to shoot—doing some acting, playing different roles, so that’ll be fun. We also have another single in April and a full record coming in June. It’s a big year ahead. We’re opening for Gary Allan on tour next month, so there are a lot of cool things happening.

If you were to give a piece of advice to anyone starting out in the industry, what would you tell them?

Dalton Davis: No matter what anyone else says, yes, the music is important—the lyrics, the sound, all of it. But if you figure out who you are as a person, everything else will fall into place. I’ve seen so many talented people who don’t know who they are yet, and it doesn’t translate into their music. Then there are some artists who might not be the most talented, but they know exactly who they are, and everything just works for them because they operate as a brand. People are attracted to authenticity when you truly know yourself.

 

Brandon Wisham’s journey to Nashville is nothing short of extraordinary. Discovered on TikTok by Bailey Zimmerman, Wisham has transformed his passion for music into a full-fledged career, landing a record deal and making a name for himself with deeply emotional songwriting. His story is a testament to the power of social media and the importance of staying consistent in the pursuit of one’s dreams.

So, your journey to Nashville is a pretty unique one with Bailey Zimmerman discovering you on TikTok and then you guys meeting up a few years later. What was that experience like and how did it change your perspective?

Brandon Wisham: I don’t know. I feel like I really, I really have the passion for music. Didn’t really know where I wanted to go with it, until I feel like, you know, just one day I wrote a song. It was the first song I ever wrote and thought I was gonna put it on TikTok to get, you know, whatever reaction I would get out of it, and little did I know Bailey Zimmerman was gonna see it. So I feel like once he kind of acknowledged it and, and like I said, with it being my first song, I kinda started seeing a bigger picture and a career that I could make out of it. And like just from there, I feel like moving to Nashville and now just seeing like everything kind of fold out this year, it definitely changed my perspective on like—I could actually make this, you know, my life and a career and make money and, you know, a job. So, you know, and I once did not think that that was even possible. It was more of a pipe dream. But other than that, it’s just been insane to even think that it could work like that.

Your debut single “Back Together” marks your first major release with Capitol Records. What inspired the song and what message did you hope that fans took from it?

Brandon Wisham: Yeah, the song was really just inspired by—obviously it’s your, you know, everyday breakup song when it comes to, you know, the storyline. But basically, I just kind of wanted to write a song. I’m really big on feeling and emotion, and I feel like that’s what my music has in it. I like just connecting on a deep level. And I feel like the song is—although it’s your, you know, heartbreak anthem—I feel like it has deeper words, a deeper meaning. You feel it a little more than you would just a typical singalong breakup song. So I think just the emotion behind it that I’ve kind of packed into it—I wanted a listener to hear it and connect deeper than just the surface.

Social media, especially TikTok, has obviously played a big role in your career as an artist. How has that platform helped shape your musical journey, and do you feel the pressure to keep creating these viral moments?

Brandon Wisham: Yeah, I honestly owe everything to TikTok and, you know, Instagram as well. I just feel like TikTok is such a good tool to use. You know, before TikTok, I feel like it was a lot harder for artists to get their music or their voice heard. And I feel like TikTok is just such a good weapon to have. Just from everything—from my personal life now to my music career—everything that I have has come from TikTok. So I think it’s definitely something that, now that I do it professionally, I take more seriously and want to put more time into, just because, you know, it’s gotten me all I have now. So I definitely think it’s important—1000%.

You’ve had the opportunity to tour with Bailey Zimmerman and Josh Ross. What has been the biggest lesson you’ve learned from being on the road with them?

Brandon Wisham: Have fun. I think—I really do think it’s just to have fun. I feel like a lot of people get in their heads, and even with stuff like this, I feel like nerves can kind of get the best of you sometimes. And I feel like Josh and Bailey are the guys who are just like, “Dude, who cares who’s looking? Just be yourself, play your music—that’s what you’re here to do. Just be creative and have fun.” I feel like that’s the biggest lesson. And I’m such a—like, I want everything to kind of be in line, perfect. I let anxiety get to me a little bit. I can let it consume me sometimes. So I think just to kind of let loose and have fun is the biggest thing I’ve learned from them, for sure.

Now that you’ve made the move to Nashville and you’re working with major names in country music, what’s next for you, and what can fans expect more of?

Brandon Wisham: Releases. We were writing when I first came to town. It was just kind of the only thing we were doing—just trying to figure out who I was as an artist. You know, like I said, the first song I ever wrote was the song Bailey cut. So I had a lot of growing to do—just figuring out what kind of music I wanted to make. We were writing everything—literally everything—rock music, pop music, country music. And I think this year, we toured heavy last year. I was on tour literally the whole year—10 months. So I think this year, we have some tour opportunities coming up, but we’re definitely more focused on releasing music and getting songs out for everybody to hear, so they can get a feel for who I am now. And yeah, that’s the plan.

If you were to give any piece of advice to someone who just wants to get their music heard and get their foot in the door, what would you say?

Brandon Wisham: Post a video. Post it every single day. I feel like—I went on a weird kick, too. The video that I had posted that Bailey saw—it only had like 10,000 views. Like, it wasn’t crazy. But, you know, the algorithm did its thing, and out of the 1,000 people that liked it, Bailey was one of them. So I think I was just posting every single day, and I think TikTok did its thing. So, just post. Consistency is everything. Even showing up to events—show up to everything, talk to everybody. Networking and being consistent are the biggest things, I think.

@brandonwishammusic

WITH THAT BEING SAIDDDD GO PRESAVE MY DEBUT SINGLE!!! 🙏🏼❤️😭 #brandonwisham #music #backtogether #countrymusic

♬ original sound – Brandon Wisham

 

Ryan Hurd, already a well-established songwriter for some of country music’s biggest names, has carved out his own space as an artist. With hit singles like “Chasing After You” and albums that blend country with rock influences, Hurd’s artistic evolution showcases his ability to connect with audiences on multiple levels. His insights into the songwriting process and industry experiences provide invaluable lessons for aspiring musicians.

You’ve written hit songs for artists like Blake Shelton, Lady A, and Luke Bryan. How does your approach to songwriting differ when you’re writing for yourself versus other artists?

Ryan Hurd: It’s a really good question. At this point in my life, I feel like I know when an idea is a Ryan idea and when an idea is a pitch idea. I also, without trying, have sort of found the writers in town that kind of understand what a Ryan album is and what a Ryan song is, and then the ones that I write more pitch songs with. So I get to really stretch my brain. I get to cover a lot of ground as a writer. And honestly, the longer I’ve done music, the more I’ve realized that writing and creating is the thing that I really love. So I’m really just, I guess, blessed to still have the opportunity to do it at the level that we still get to do it at.

Your song “Chasing After You” with Maren Morris became a huge success and was your first Top 10 country hit. Looking back, what made that song so special to you?

Ryan Hurd: Man, I think there’s just a lot of magic in that record. It was just the joy of my life to make music with Maren, and we still have a lot of great memories from that. We still talk about it a lot. Chasing was just lightning in a bottle. I just remember how much fun it was to make the record. Sometimes, a hit is just a hit. I think we’re at three or four times platinum now, which is insane. It’s been a huge part of our lives—it even got us nominated for a Grammy together. So yeah, Chasing was a massive hit, my only number one as an artist, and it will always have a very special place on the wall.

From touring with major country artists to headlining your own shows, how has performing live influenced you to grow as an artist?

Ryan Hurd: I don’t tour as much as I used to, but you do always imagine the song live when you record it—like, how’s this gonna feel with a live audience, and where would it fit in the set? Playing live definitely influences how I put albums together. I love the heavier moments in my set, which is why I think Midwest Rock & Roll is such a fun record. It sounds like an album you made in your garage when you were 16, and I want to play it as it was intended—with three electric guitars, big drums. It’s an interesting take on country music and what I do as a writer and artist.

Your debut album Pelago showcased a unique blend of country and other influences. What inspired the sound and storytelling behind that project?

Ryan Hurd: Pelago was really special because it came right after Chasing After You took off. Sony, my record label at the time, told me, “We need an album, and we need you to finish it in six weeks.” So it was a mix of songs we already had ready to record and just aiming for radio singles. I love that project. It has some incredible moments, and it’s fun to see what fans gravitate toward. Everyone seems to connect with something different on that album. The new record was made very differently. It’s more conceptual—a record about where I grew up, almost like a coming-of-age album, even though I’m a little past that phase. It’s a cool take on nostalgia and looking back. But I’m proud of both albums. Pelago took me so many places, and I’m really excited for people to hear Midwest Rock & Roll.

As someone who’s been in the industry for a number of years, what advice would you give to new songwriters and artists trying to break into country music?

Ryan Hurd: I got this from Natalie Hemby, who got it from somebody else, but she said, “Don’t be an ass on the way up and don’t be an ass on the way down.” That’s solid advice. It’s really tough to get your foot in the door in this industry, but if you focus on getting better at your craft instead of just getting somewhere, that steep climb becomes a lot more manageable. Work on yourself, improve your craft, and eventually, you’ll be so good that nobody will be able to tell you no.

 

Kalsey Kulyk rounds out this list of rising stars, bringing a bold, outlaw-country energy to the scene. With multiple hit singles, millions of streams, and a strong fashion-forward brand, Kulyk exemplifies the modern country artist who embraces both tradition and innovation. Her success highlights the impact of streaming culture, social media, and strategic branding in today’s music industry

You’ve had an exciting year with the release of You Fight Dirty and your upcoming tour with Nico Moon. How does it feel to hit the road with such a high-energy artist?

Kalsey Kulyk: I’m really excited. I’ve heard that his show is amazing, so I’m looking forward to opening for him, but also to seeing his live show and maybe picking up some tips and tricks along the way.

Your breakout single Love Me Like an Outlaw has surpassed 2 million streams and even broke into the Billboard Canada Country Top 20. What inspired that song, and did you expect it to resonate so strongly with listeners?

Kalsey Kulyk: That song actually started as just a simple idea. It was a love song, and I wrote it about my husband. I wanted to come up with something that felt really country and cool at the same time, and the phrase Love Me Like an Outlaw popped into my head. I kept it in my phone for a while, and then one day, I was writing with two songwriters I love working with, and when I brought the idea to them, they were immediately on board.

I actually wrote the song eight years ago and had it on the back burner for a long time. When I was an independent artist, I finally took it to a producer I was working with, and he absolutely crushed the production. I was so proud of it. When we decided to take it to radio, the response was just wild. It was incredible to see it break the Top 20, and for three weeks, I was the only female artist in the Top 20, which was such a cool moment.

You’ve had incredible success on streaming platforms, with over 7 million global streams. How has the digital age and streaming culture influenced your approach to making and releasing music?

Kalsey Kulyk: Well, first and foremost, I try to make music that I love and hope people resonate with. I always try to make my songs relatable without sacrificing artistic integrity.

It’s also great to have social media as a platform because you never know what’s going to take off. “Love Me Like an Outlaw” is a perfect example—the phrase has been used so many times online, which definitely helped boost the song. Social media and streaming have changed everything in music, but they’ve also created incredible opportunities for artists.

Your previous single “Big Deal” hit number one on SiriusXM Top of the Country. What was that moment like for you, and how did it shape your journey moving forward?

Kalsey Kulyk: That was really unexpected. I didn’t have any major expectations for that song, but I always really liked it—it was fun, carefree, and just a feel-good track. When it hit number one, I was shocked! That song actually gave me the opportunity to keep recording as an independent artist. It allowed me to record Love Me Like an Outlaw, which was a huge turning point for me. I’ll always be grateful that Big Deal got so much love.

As an ambassador for Idyl, you’re not just representing a brand—you’re embodying a lifestyle. How does fashion play into your identity as an artist?

Kalsey Kulyk: My sister is actually my stylist! She went to school for it, so she’s amazing at what she does. I’m so lucky to have her because she always finds the best pieces for me. Since my brand is very Outlaw Country, we sit down and brainstorm ideas to make sure my look reflects that. We’re always trying to elevate my style while staying true to the brand. It’s a really fun process, and I love that we get to work on it together.

Your self-titled album hit #2 in Canada on iTunes and Apple Music. What was your creative vision for that project, and how did it feel to see such a strong response to it?

Kalsey Kulyk: That album was really about figuring out who I was as an artist when I first moved to Nashville. It felt like the foundation of everything I’ve done since—kind of like taking baby steps toward the sound and style I wanted to create. It really set the stage for what’s coming next, like my Outlaw Poetry record and my new song You Fight Dirty. Seeing the album hit #2 and knowing that people connected with it was just an incredible feeling.

With your growing success and evolving sound, what’s next for you? Can fans expect new music or surprises?

Kalsey Kulyk: Absolutely! There’s a lot more music coming. Some of the new songs are ones I wrote years ago, but there are also brand-new ones that have been rewritten recently. I’m really excited to keep growing my brand, reaching more listeners, and sharing this next chapter of my music. Hopefully, people will connect with it and follow along for the ride!

 

Last but not least, Ward Guenther. What started as a small gathering in 2011 has grown into one of the most respected live music events in the industry, providing a stage for both rising talent and established artists. With a deep love for storytelling and a keen ear for great music, Ward has built Whiskey Jam into a proving ground where future stars get their start. Now, with Canada’s First Whisky Jam, his legacy expands beyond Nashville, bringing the same passion and energy to a new generation of artists and fans.

Why did you start Whiskey Jam in Nashville?

I had been living in Nashville for about 8 years, playing songwriter events, which were typically very subdued affairs. We found ourselves leaving these events and going to more lively bars afterwards, so I figured why not combine the two – creating a new event that was as much about having fun as it was about the music. 

What do you look for when discovering new artists? / What is your process for discovering new acts/ bringing them on a Whiskey Jam lineup?

There’s a wide and variable mix. Sometimes it’s intangible, you just KNOW. But good energy always goes a long way, especially in the area of live performance and the cultivation of a real, devoted fanbase. Energy and charisma are more important to us than streaming numbers and social followings, which can be very misleading these days.

What is your most memorable Whiskey Jam night to date and why?

Our 10th anniversary show at The Ryman Auditorium in 2021. It was the first summer after the pandemic and people were as excited and hungry as I’ve ever seen them about music. We sold out the show without announcing any performers. The audience was incredible, the performances (from Old Dominion and Randy Travis to Lainey Wilson and Chris Young) were total surprises, so every artist reveal was met with a wave of excitement. I didn’t want it to end, and I’d go back to that night in an instant.

 

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