Flipping a classic country phrase on its head and making it completely their own, The Prairie States turn ‘this ain’t my first rodeo’ into a vulnerable, nostalgic look back at the intensity and heartbreak of first love on their new single “My First Rodeo,” available today via Willing Records/Universal Music Canada
The release comes on the heels of a massive wave of momentum for the band. Recently nominated for 2026 CCMA Group of the Year, hitting chart peaks at country radio this year and surpassing millions of global streams, The Prairie States have solidified their standing at the forefront of the Canadian country scene. “My First Rodeo” captures that peak momentum, serving as the lead-off single to kick off their next chapter and an upcoming new body of work.
The new single is an exhilarating, adrenaline-fueled anthem that delivers on the promise of the band’s steady rise. Driven by lead singer Mat Cardinal’s powerful vocals and heavy guitars, the track delivers a high-octane sound, using the familiar phrase to show how a first real heartbreak prepares you for every one after.
Co-written by band members Jeff Dick and Mike Nash alongside Chris Yurchuck, the song originated from a note in Jeff’s notebook before taking shape in the studio. Produced by Dan Swinimer (Madeline Merlo, Tony Stevens), the recording captures the dynamic live energy that has defined the band’s recent growth.
“Instead of using the phrase to dismiss something, it became about longing and nostalgia,” the band says. “Opening yourself up to someone for the very first time is a scary, intense experience, and your first broken heart is a moment no one ever forgets. But once that initial pain subsides, you realize it was a gift. It’s a universal feeling we hope everyone can connect with.”
ABOUT THE PRAIRIE STATES
Edmonton-based country band The Prairie States blend classic country sounds with high-energy rock flair. Fronted by singer-songwriter Mat Cardinal, a member of the Bigstone Cree Nation, whose personal story of resilience following a life-saving kidney transplant fuels his passion for inspiring youth, the band has steadily risen as one of Canada’s most compelling acts. Signed to Willing Records/Universal Music and represented by Paquin Entertainment Group, they have earned 12 Country Music Alberta Awards, along with 3 CCMA nominations, including Group of the Year in 2026. Driven by top-charting Canadian country radio hits, the band – Cardinal, Jeff Dick, Mike Nash and Jay Der – continues to electrify stages across North America, sharing stages with the likes of Keith Urban, Brothers Osborne and Lainey Wilson. The release of their new song “My First Rodeo” sets the stage for their most ambitious chapter yet.
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