Rhys Rutherford

Rhys Rutherford is a Nashville-born singer-songwriter blending deep country roots with modern flair. The son of celebrated hit-maker Rivers Rutherford (who is in the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame), Rutherford absorbed music from legends like Tim McGraw, John Prine, Kris Kristofferson—and dabbled in ’60s–’70s rock—before writing his first song at age 16.

After two semesters at Ole Miss, Rutherford returned home to pursue music full-time. A viral cover of ERNEST’s “Feet Wanna Run” caught the mentor’s eye, and in March 2023, Rutherford signed a publishing deal with ERNEST’s Cadillac Music in partnership with Big Loud. His early cuts include Bailey Zimmerman’s “Is This Really Over?” and ERNEST’s “Hangin’ On (feat. Morgan Wallen),” showcasing his knack for emotionally resonant hooks.

He debuted with the soulful “Southern Belle”—a baritone-led, lyrically clever ode to nostalgic heartache featured on the Cadillac Sessions mixtape. He also appears on the project alongside fellow rising stars Chandler Walters and Cody Lohden.

Rutherford describes his vision as merging the storytelling of ’90s country icons like Brooks & Dunn and Toby Keith with today’s crop of artists such as ERNEST, Combs, and Wallen. With his commanding voice, rich songwriting pedigree, and a solo project in the works, Rutherford is poised to become a major presence in the next generation of country music—an artist rooted in tradition yet driven by fresh, relatable storytelling.