Artist to Watch: Justin Moore

Justin Moore made a splash in 2009 with a break-out tune that went straight to the top of the charts – “Small Town USA” from his self-titled debut album.  On the strength of that single, Justin was named Billboard’s “New Country Artist of 2009.”  “Small Town USA” was a song that Justin not only sings but has lived.

Justin grew up in Poyen, Arkansas on a 20-acre farm surrounded by his family who instilled the lessons of hard work and good moral values in their young son.  His parents also urged Justin to pursue his musical gifts.  By the time he was six, Justin began performing in church and it wasn’t long until he was making the rounds at local festivals and talent contests.  When Justin’s father suggested that he give music a more serious try, Justin joined up with his uncle’s Southern rock-flavored country band and began making trips to Nashville to learn about the music business.

At 17, Justin found himself with a management deal and, after graduating high school, moved to Music City.  With his first steps of being a professional singer behind him, Justin soon started preparing to land his own record deal, but he had problems securing the best material from the songwriters in town.  So, Justin took matters into his own hand and began writing songs himself, the first of which became his number one hit.  After crafting tunes that sang the praises of simple values and the small town way of life, Justin soon signed his record deal.  

2010 looks like it’s shaping up to be an even better year for the newcomer.  Justin is on the verge of having a Top 10 hit – “Backwoods” - to go along with his chart-topper.  He will also soon be rejoining Brad Paisley on the road for the superstar’s upcoming H2O tour, and in February, Justin became a father when he and wife Kate welcomed their first child into the world Ella Kole.  The future is definitely looking bright for Justin Moore.

Nikita Palmer for Citadel Digital © 2010

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