Is this rising artist Alabama’s next breakout country music star?

When Alabama native Hannah McFarland first attended the Stagecoach country music festival in California, she walked away with a singular goal: she wouldn't return until she was booked to perform on its stages. That vision became a reality on her second trip, where she found her name printed—albeit in the fine print—on the festival's official lineup T-shirt. For McFarland, that shirt is more than merchandise; it is a keepsake she plans to hang in her room forever.

A Rapid Rise

McFarland’s trajectory has been electric between 2024 and 2026. She has secured a global publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music, signed with The Core Records/Capitol Records, and performed on the iconic Grand Ole Opry stage. Beyond her solo achievements, she has shared the stage with Nashville heavyweights like Chase Rice, Riley Green, and Brett Young.

Her momentum is set to continue this summer. McFarland is scheduled to perform at the Gulf Coast Jam in Panama City Beach on May 30 and will appear as a featured act at the CMA Fest in Nashville early next month. She is also hitting the road as an opening act for Riley Green on his “Cowboy As It Gets” tour.

The Alabama Pipeline

Alabama is currently enjoying an incredible run of success in country music. Riley Green, a Jacksonville product, is dominating the screen with a role on “Marshals” and a coaching gig on “The Voice.” Meanwhile, Hope Hull’s Ella Langley is breaking records with her crossover hit “Choosin’ Texas.” Furthermore, the Red Clay Strays, who recently won Group of the Year at the Academy of Country Music Awards, are cementing the state's status as a powerhouse.

From Mobile Bars to Broadway

McFarland’s journey began in Mobile, where she was a student at UMS-Wright Preparatory School. By age 16, she was a regular performer at local spots like Bluegill and downtown Moe’s Original BBQ. She also credits her early development to venues like Callaghan’s Irish Social Club and Manci’s Antique Club in Daphne, noting the latter's co-owner, John Thompson, for his uncanny ability to spot rising talent.

After years of playing cover shows, McFarland made the move to Nashville in 2016. The turning point arrived when she realized music was her true calling. After a night of prayer and reflection, she released the song “The Bed I Made.” It became her first viral moment, and since then, she says it has been a blur of non-stop work.

Growth on the Road

While opening for established acts is a grind, McFarland finds immense value in the experience. “The biggest thing that it’s shown me is just there are people out there,” she says. Even when performing for massive crowds, connecting with fans who know her lyrics provides a surreal sense of validation.

She is also leaning on mentors, including fellow Alabama artist Jamey Johnson, to navigate the industry. Her approach to the business is refreshingly collaborative rather than competitive. She views peers like Langley not as rivals, but as trailblazers, noting, “I think there’s room for all of us.”

Looking Ahead

As she prepares for her upcoming festival appearances, including the Gulf Coast Jam featuring Muscadine Bloodline and Jessie Murph, McFarland remains focused on her original mission: using her platform to tell honest stories and connect with her audience. Whether she is performing acoustic covers like “Neon Moon” or introducing original music, her goal remains rooted in the storytelling traditions of country greats like Keith Whitley and Merle Haggard.