Madeline Merlo
Madeline Merlo, born on February 9, 1994, in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, has quickly made a name for herself in the country music scene with her signature blend of country-pop melodies and heartfelt lyrics. Her journey from a small-town singer to a celebrated artist is filled with significant milestones and unforgettable performances.
From a young age, Merlo was surrounded by music, drawing inspiration from a household that embraced everything from classic country to R&B. She started writing songs and performing locally, eventually catching the attention of RGK Entertainment and Open Road Recordings, with whom she signed in 2013. The following year, her debut single, Sinking Like a Stone, put her on the radar, paving the way for future success.
In 2015, Merlo was honored with the Canadian Country Music Association’s Rising Star Award. This recognition set the stage for the release of her debut album, Free Soul, in 2016, which featured fan-favorite tracks like Honey Jack and Whatcha Wanna Do About It. The latter became her first top-ten hit on Canadian country radio.
Throughout her career, Merlo has captivated audiences across North America with her energetic and engaging live performances. Some of her most notable appearances include:
The Road Trip Tour (2015): Opening for Canadian country icons Dean Brody and Paul Brandt, Merlo introduced her growing talent to a wider audience.
Boots and Hearts Music Festival: A frequent performer at one of Canada’s top country festivals, she hit the stage in both 2016 and 2018, sharing the lineup with acts like Florida Georgia Line and Alan Jackson.
Sunfest (2017): She electrified the crowd on the festival’s closing night, warming up the stage for headliners Little Big Town.
Grand Ole Opry Debut (October 16, 2024): A career-defining moment for any country artist, Merlo took the iconic stage, performing Champagne Night and Broken Heart Thing alongside Dustin Lynch.
Merlo has also performed in Kitchener, Ontario, including a stop at Centre in the Square on December 10, 2018, as part of a tour with Tim Hicks and Tebey. (See photos below.)
Her career has continued to soar in recent years. In 2020, she gained national recognition by winning NBC’s Songland with the song Champagne Night, which was later recorded by Lady A and became a chart-topping hit. She followed this success by signing with BBR Music Group in Nashville and releasing the EP Slide in 2022. Most recently, her 2024 project, One House Down (from the girl next door), features collaborations with artists like Dustin Lynch and showcases her evolution as a songwriter and performer.
From her early days as a small-town artist to becoming a recognized name in country music, Madeline Merlo’s journey is a testament to her passion, perseverance, and deep connection with her audience. As she continues to evolve, fans eagerly anticipate what’s next for this rising star.
