Country Rising Presented by Cottage Springs is proud to announce that St. John’s, NL singer-songwriter Paige Penney has been named the winner of its 2026 talent search. Announced live this morning, Penney shared the news with Canada in an exclusive interview on Breakfast Television, after weeks of nationwide fan voting.
“My biggest dream has always been to release my original songs and perform them for fans all over and because of Country Rising I get to make this dream a reality,” shares Penney. “I could not have done this without the support from the fans all across Canada but especially the East Coast, including my home province of Newfoundland & Labrador, who blew up my socials with overwhelming support. From the bottom of my heart, thank you for believing in me. This is only the beginning!”
As the Country Rising winner, Penney walks away with a recording contract with Starseed Records, a $10,000 cash prize, and a full artist development program that includes one-on-one performance coaching, songwriting sessions, and a professional studio recording. She’ll also take the stage at Misty City Music Festival on Saturday, September 19.
“Country Rising is all about shining a spotlight on Canada’s incredible country music talent,” says Laura Butler Synnott, Senior Brand Manager at Cottage Springs. “Paige is a deserving winner whose fresh approach to country music stood out throughout the competition. We’re proud to have provided a platform for her talent to shine and look forward to seeing what’s next for her.”
Penney was one of three finalists in this year’s nationwide search for country music’s next big star, which also included Carson Janik (Tecumseh, ON) and Emma Kade (Radium Hot Springs, BC). The three breakout artists drew fan votes from coast to coast throughout the summer, with Penney ultimately taking the top spot when voting closed last month.
Penney is an award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist bringing a smoky, moody edge to modern country music. Originally from Newfoundland and now splitting time in Nashville, her sound blends raw, honest storytelling with distinctive melodies and a voice that lingers long after the song ends.
You can visit www.cottagesprings.ca/countryrising to learn more about Country Rising Presented by Cottage Springs and find out when the 2027 competition opens.
