Country music is having its moment, and it’s bigger and better than ever. No longer just for traditional fans, Country has broken through to a new level, reaching diverse audiences across the nation. At Audacy, we’re witnessing this explosion first hand, with Country music radio stations growing 11% year-over-year. What’s driving this surge? Country’s popularity is spurred on by its evolving sound, powerhouse talent, and amazing live events and experiences. And brands are getting on board, tapping into a dedicated fanbase that’s here for it all.

Wondering how to jump in and win with Country fans? Here’s a quick guide to striking gold with four smart moves.

Country radio is more than music—it’s about community, built around the relationships that listeners have with their favorite hosts and shows. Listeners tune in for familiar voices and dynamic personalities who bring them the music, plus the stories and laughter they crave. Take Katie Neal, host of “Katie & Company” and ACM National Personality Award winner. Every weekday, 2.7 million listeners join her for candid chats with country’s biggest names—Luke Combs, Carrie Underwood, Jelly Roll, you name it! Her “Superstar Power Hour” is the ultimate backstage pass, giving fans intimate access to stories behind the songs and playful banter.

Then there’s Mo & StyckMan. Their relatable personalities and stories—like Mo’s tales of parenting four young kids and StyckMan’s “empty nester” escapades—bring realness to their audience of listeners.

Audacy’s Country radio audience includes over 14 million listeners who aren’t just tuning in; they’re living and loving Country. 

Millennials and Gen X make up two-thirds of this group, and their spending power is no joke, from retail to auto to household goods. So, if you want loyal fans, these listeners are your people.

Country radio offers advertisers unique entitlements that go beyond traditional commercials, embedding brands into the experience—think studio sponsorships, host endorsements, and memorable branded segments. These are some of the most popular Country radio entitlements, allowing brands to become part of the show, building familiarity and recognition among dedicated listeners.

When it comes to bringing brands to life, nothing beats the immersive power of live concerts. For example, Audacy’s “Stars & Strings” concert is a flagship event for country fans and artists alike. This acoustic guitar-pull concert gathers Country’s biggest names on stage for a one-of-a-kind experience filled with raw performances and storytelling.

For brands, events like “Stars & Strings” offer exclusive onsite activations that bring fans face-to-face with sponsors. From branded lounges to pre-show parties, to product placement onstage, “Stars & Strings” offers countless ways for brands to join the fun. Give fans a VIP experience they’ll never forget while subtly (or boldly) reinforcing your brand’s presence. And with national flyaway contesting, you’re not just reaching the concert-goers; you’re getting attention nationwide.

If you’re wondering what contesting can do, take a page from Stella Rosa Wines. They nailed it with their “Boots and Bags” contest featuring country star Jordan Davis. Stella Rosa was looking to boost brand awareness and connect with a new demographic of women aged 21+, and they achieved it in style.

Listeners entered to win cash and an artist experience, and with host Katie Neal hyping the event, Stella Rosa hit the sweet spot. Over 33 million campaign impressions later, they saw huge lifts in brand awareness, familiarity, and favorability—plus, a brand lift study confirmed that Stella Rosa’s connection with fans was stronger than ever. 

Country music is going strong, and with a little creativity, your brand can be part of the magic. Whether you’re tapping into the power of beloved radio hosts, sponsoring crowd-favorite show segments, creating memorable live experiences, or running an unforgettable contest, the opportunities are endless. Let’s turn up the volume and show you how to make waves in the country world with Audacy!