Discover the Year's Most Compelling Musical Journeys
The Rise of Gracie Abrams: From Opening Act to Global Sensation
Gracie Abrams, the young artist mentored by Taylor Swift, had a meteoric rise in 2024. Her sophomore album, "The Secret of Us," released in June, marked a significant milestone in her career. The album featured standout tracks like "Close to You," which gained widespread acclaim after its inclusion in Netflix’s hit series "Emily in Paris" and the trailer for "Nobody Wants This." Following the album's success, Abrams unveiled a deluxe edition that included "That’s So True," her highest-charting single to date.
This track reached No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the U.S. and topped charts in multiple countries, including the U.K., Ireland, Australia, and New Zealand. Abrams' achievements extended beyond music; she made her debut at the Met Gala and received her first Grammy nomination for Best New Artist. Her collaboration with Swift on "Us" also earned her a Grammy nod for Best Pop Duo Performance. Abrams' journey from opening act for Swift’s "The Eras Tour" to headlining her own tour showcased her rapid ascent to stardom.
Sabrina Carpenter: From Disney Star to Global Icon
Sabrina Carpenter's transition from child actress to global music sensation was one of the most compelling stories of 2024. After gaining initial recognition through her role in Disney Channel’s "Girl Meets World," Carpenter pivoted to music, gradually building a dedicated fan base. Her breakthrough came with the release of "Espresso," which became the unofficial anthem of summer 2024. The song peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and achieved platinum status in 14 countries, earning Carpenter her first No. 1 hit with "Please Please Please."
Carpenter's sixth studio album, "Short n’ Sweet," solidified her position as a leading artist, reaching No. 1 in the U.S. and garnering six Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year and Song of the Year. Carpenter's relentless pursuit of her dreams was highlighted in interviews, where she emphasized the importance of perseverance. Her successful North American tour and upcoming European leg further cemented her status as a global icon. Carpenter's feature on Time Magazine’s 100 Next Most Influential Rising Stars issue and her MTV VMA win for "Espresso" underscored her impact on the entertainment landscape.
Richard Goodall: An Unlikely Champion at 55
Richard Goodall's story is a testament to the power of pursuing dreams at any age. At 55, the former janitor from Terre Haute, Indiana, captured the hearts of audiences nationwide when he auditioned for "America’s Got Talent." His soulful rendition of Journey’s "Don’t Stop Believin'" earned him a Golden Buzzer from judge Heidi Klum, propelling him directly to the live shows. Goodall's unexpected journey culminated in a victory, making him the oldest winner in the show's history.
Goodall's performance with Journey during the finale and his subsequent invitation to sing the National Anthem at an Indiana Pacers game highlighted his newfound fame. His message of never giving up resonated deeply with fans, inspiring many to chase their own aspirations. Goodall's success serves as a powerful reminder that it's never too late to achieve greatness, regardless of age or background.
Chappell Roan: The Quiet Arrival of a Midwest Princess
Chappell Roan's debut album, "The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess," quietly emerged as a sleeper hit in early 2024. Released in September 2023, the album initially garnered critical acclaim but didn't gain mainstream attention until later. Roan's performances at major festivals like Coachella and Lollapalooza, along with her role as an opening act for Olivia Rodrigo's "Guts World Tour," propelled her into the spotlight. Tracks like "Pink Pony Club" climbed the charts, and her latest single, "Good Luck, Babe!" reached the top 10 in the U.S.
Roan's breakthrough year was further validated by her MTV VMA win for Best New Artist and six Grammy nominations across various categories, including Record of the Year and Album of the Year. Her journey from relative obscurity to mainstream success demonstrated the unpredictable nature of the music industry and the power of persistence. Roan's unique blend of storytelling and heartfelt melodies resonated with listeners, establishing her as a rising star in the music scene.
Shaboozey: Country Music's New Frontier
Shaboozey's career took a dramatic turn in 2024, marking his entry into the mainstream music scene. Featured on two tracks from Beyoncé’s country album "Cowboy Carter," Shaboozey gained significant exposure. His breakthrough came with "A Bar Song (Tipsy)," the fourth single from his third album, "Where I’ve Been, Isn’t Where I’m Going." The song became an instant hit, holding the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 for 19 weeks, tying Lil Nas X’s record.
Shaboozey's success extended to numerous accolades, including a CMA Awards nomination for Single of the Year and wins at the People’s Choice Country Awards. His rise from a decade-long career in the shadows to becoming a household name highlighted the unpredictability of the music industry. Shaboozey's candid reflections on his journey revealed the importance of consistency and writing the right song. With nominations for Best New Artist at both the CMA Awards and Grammys, Shaboozey's future looks bright as he prepares for the European leg of his headlining tour.