Big Loud’s 2026 Showcase: 6 Ascending Artists
Nashville is set to become the epicenter of heartland music this September, as Big Loud hosts its second annual AMERICANAFEST showcase at the Aviator Nation Dreamland. This free, all-ages event promises an intimate, can’t-miss experience featuring six rising artists who are redefining the boundaries of roots music.
The showcase, kicking off the first day of the annual five-day Music City conference and festival, draws attendees into a world of diverse regional sounds. Guests will be treated to an array of heartland styles, exploring everything from Texas soul and modern country to Appalachian storytelling and Americana that defies easy categorization.
The lineup features a stunning collection of talent, each bringing a distinct approach to the genre. Alabama’s Kashus Culpepper injects a magnificent soulful element into his Southern roots sound. His acclaimed 2026 album, Act I, earned widespread praise for originals like “Man of His Word,” and his work, which includes renditions of classics like Glen Campbell’s “Southern Nights,” has already caught the attention of music superstars like Elton John and John Mayer.
Further showcasing the power of collaboration is the modern country duo, Thelma & James. Consisting of married singer/songwriters MacKenzie Porter and Jake Etheridge, they have amassed thirty million global streams and recently received a ‘26 ACM nomination for Duo of the Year. After garnering recognition, they continue to build momentum, having supported stadium acts and released standout singles like “Home In Your Broken Heart.”
Adding a layer of soulful depth is Texas-bred songwriter Alex Lambert, who expertly blurs the lines between country, soul, and R&B. Influenced by legends like John Legend and Kacey Musgraves, Lambert’s single “Think I’m In Love” demonstrates the kind of soul-stirring, finger-snapping music that resonates with audiences.
The showcase also highlights the depth of tradition through Coleman Jennings, whose new Big Loud Texas debut, Lead You Home, was produced by Grammy-winning producer Dave Cobb. Jennings’ hypnotic style, drawing from touchstones like Townes Van Zandt and Willie Nelson, offers a vintage Western vibe that is undeniably original.
Rounding out the featured artists are Nashville native Waylon Payne, who has forged his own legacy while drawing from a rich musical lineage. Payne’s latest album, Wayward, is anchored by memorable tracks and demonstrates his versatility as a singer, songwriter, and actor. Meanwhile, Appalachian songwriter Nathan Bess, a Charleston, West Virginia native, brings the profound weight of Mountain State life to his captivating songs like “Flows” and “Somethin’ About the Smell,” proving himself a moving storyteller in the vein of Tyler Childers and Jason Isbell.
This afternoon showcase on September 15 is more than just a concert; it is a perfect opportunity for fans and industry insiders to witness the raw, evolving voices of today’s finest rising performers in an intimate setting. The Aviator Nation Dreamland venue is the perfect stage for these artists, designed so that the music, the sound, and the venue all become part of the unforgettable experience.
Admission is first come, first served, and free for all ages. Fans are encouraged to register and attend this exceptional event.
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