After a breakout debut and a string of grassroots successes, River House Artists’ Hudson Westbrook is cementing his place among the new wave of country singer-songwriters. Entirely self-taught and unapologetically authentic, this emerging artist made waves with his viral 2024 single, “Take It Slow.” Now, Westbrook is forging ahead, breathing new life into the genuine country roots central to the Red Dirt movement—while refusing to be boxed in by his beginnings. Hailing from Stephenville, Texas, and influenced by everything from George Strait to gangsta rap, the former multi-sport standout and high school football state champ first picked up a guitar in 2020. Grounded in blue-collar grit both on and off the stage, “Take It Slow” was among the first songs Westbrook ever penned. Recorded for just $400, its raw vocal edge and inviting country-rock energy quickly turned it into a bona fide hit, amassing over 20 million global streams since release. Making his mark on today’s music scene, Westbrook followed up with the carefree anthem “Two Way Drive” and the dynamic single “5 to 9”—both highlighting his growing songwriting prowess and natural talent. With “5 to 9,” he captures the working man’s daydream through a blend of modern and traditional sounds, while the narrative-driven “Johnny Walker”—a soulful cover of fellow Texan Jacob Stelly—further showcases Westbrook’s artistic direction. November 2024 saw the release of his debut EP via River House Artists, pushing his global career streams past 96 million. “Two Way Drive” became his first number one on the Texas Regional Country Chart, and Westbrook is determined to carry the Texas country spirit far beyond state borders. After a year spent opening for acts like Midland, Cole Swindell, and the Eli Young Band, plus a featured spot at ACL Fest in October, Westbrook is gearing up for a 2025 headlining tour and will join fellow Texan Parker McCullom for select dates.
