Reviewed by Harry Kaplan

For those of you that need a refresher, Ameripolitan is the moniker given to “real” country music. It encompasses such categories as honky tonk, outlaw, rockabilly, and western swing. All of the four food groups are represented. These awards are very important because this is the ONLY forum to recognize the men and women that have, and are, dedicating their lives to preserving these forms of music. This isn’t a revivalist movement at all because that would mean that these musical genres went somewhere. Not true. They have been here all along, it just needs to be returned back to the people. 

Here are the nominees for Western Swing Female 2018:

Sophia Johnson Hailing from Birmingham, England, Sophia Johnson made her mark early on as one of the UK’s leading female acoustic guitarists. She has been playing since she was seven years old, training as a classical guitarist during her formative years, and then moving into the spheres of bluegrass, western swing and gypsy jazz in her late teens.

Wendy Newcomer  A singer/songwriter originally from Asheboro, North Carolina, currently living in Nashville, Tennessee. Wendy’s music is influenced by her heroes including Emmylou Harris, Loretta Lynn, Patty Loveless, Guy Clark and Tom Petty. She made her Grand Ole Opry debut in 2000 and released her debut EP, Raised On Promises, in 2004.

Carolyn Sills Carolyn is a singer and bass player living in Santa Cruz, CA. She writes and performs original music influenced by classic jazz, western and pop songs. She heads up the blues and twang trio Boss Tweed, and in the instrumental surf combo Los Beardos Raviolis. She also fronts the Carolyn Sills Combo.

Grace Adele A native of Ohio, Grace Adele originally had her heart set on becoming a Rockette after years of classical training in ballet. With a distinct vintage style, Grace Adele sets her stage with traditional American roots drawn from classic country, western swing, bluegrass, folk, and contemporary indie rock.

Stacy Lee Guse Stacy began singing before she could talk. Ever since then, her life has been grounded in the music business. She is a sought after session vocalist for lead and backing vocals alike at studios throughout Canada. Her quick, accurate and creative touches have been included on several live stages, radio, and TV jingles.

Ameripolitan Award Western Swing Female Playlist