Hudson Westbrook: New Country’s Rising Star Shines Bright

By on April 25, 2025

As the Two Step Inn Festival rolled into the late afternoon on April 5, 2025, Hudson Westbrook took the stage, drawing a massive crowd of young fans to San Gabriel Park. His “new country” sound—blending singer-songwriter introspection with radio-ready hooks—had the audience buzzing. For me, his performance of an original song (with lyrics like “Oh yea, yea, yea, you ain’t mine, I’ll do whatever it takes”) was a highlight, showcasing his knack for catchy, heartfelt anthems. Westbrook’s popularity with the younger set was undeniable, and his set marked him as a breakout star of the festival.

File Photo: Country artist Hudson Westbrook performs in Georgetown, Texas at the Two Step Inn Festival on April 5, 2025. (Photo Credit and Copyright; Larry Philpot/SoundstagePhotography.com)

Background and Bio: A Texas native, Hudson Westbrook emerged in the early 2020s as part of the new wave of country artists. His debut singles, “5 to 9” and “Take You Home,” earned airplay on Texas radio and spots on Spotify’s Hot Country playlist. His music, rooted in small-town storytelling, appeals to fans of Zach Bryan and Parker McCollum. Westbrook’s rise has been grassroots, with no major TV or movie credits yet, though he’s performed at festivals like SXSW. Awards are still forthcoming, but his 2025 festival appearances signal a meteoric trajectory.

File Photo: Country artist Hudson Westbrook performs in Georgetown, Texas at the Two Step Inn Festival on April 5, 2025. (Photo Credit and Copyright; Larry Philpot/SoundstagePhotography.com)

Performance Review: Westbrook’s set was a high-octane blend of charisma and craft. From the opening chords of “5 to 9,” he had the crowd—especially the under-30 contingent—singing every word. His stage presence, all cowboy hat and easy smiles, radiated authenticity. The standout was the unnamed original you mentioned, likely a new track, with its infectious “Oh yea, yea, yea” hook and lyrics about chasing love. The song’s energy had fans dancing, and Westbrook’s emotive delivery made it a festival highlight. He also leaned into crowd favorites like “Take You Home,” its driving beat perfect for the Texas sunset. His band, tight and polished, complemented his vocals with soaring harmonies and crisp guitar riffs. Westbrook’s connection with the audience—shouting out Georgetown’s “real country folks”—cemented his appeal. As you noted, his popularity with younger fans was evident in the sea of phone cameras capturing every moment.

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