Photo Credit: Patrick Gibson

Name: Kristy Cox
Birthplace: Adelaide, Australia
Current Residence: Nashville, Tennessee, USA
Music Style: Contemporary Bluegrass / Country / Americana
Website: www.kristycox.com
Facebook: Kristy Cox | Facebook
Instagram: @kristycoxmusic

How did you get started?

I grew up in Australia, in the mountains by the sea, surrounded by music from a young age. My first real introduction to bluegrass was listening to the Grand Ole Opry in my grandfather’s old Ford Bronco. There was something about the harmonies, the acoustic instruments, and the stories that just grabbed me.

I started playing guitar and writing songs when I was 11, and music quickly became more than just a hobby. Growing up in Australia, bluegrass wasn’t exactly the most popular genre, but I fell in love with it anyway! Eventually, that love took me halfway around the world to Nashville, where I’ve been fortunate enough to build a career doing what I love.

How would you describe your music?

I’d describe my music as bluegrass with a little Australian heart and a whole lot of real life thrown in. I love traditional bluegrass, but I’m also drawn to songs that tell honest stories and connect with people emotionally.

For me, it’s always been about the song. Whether it’s something that makes you laugh, cry, or think about your own life, I want people to feel something when they listen. I love the drive and energy of bluegrass, the harmonies, and the incredible musicianship, but I also love that it gives you room to tell a story.

Who are your biggest musical influences?

Emmylou Harris has always been a huge influence on me, both musically and personally. I love artists who can deliver a song with honesty and emotion without needing to overcomplicate it.

I grew up listening to a mixture of country, bluegrass, and traditional music, and I think all of those influences have found their way into what I do today. I’m also constantly inspired by the incredible musicians and songwriters I get to work with in Nashville. There’s always something new to learn.

What sets you apart from other artists in your genre?

I think being an Australian woman making a career in American bluegrass gives me a slightly different perspective. I didn’t grow up in the heart of bluegrass country, but I grew up loving the music just as deeply.

I’ve never tried to be anything other than myself. I bring my Australian background, my country music influences, and my own life experiences into the music. I’m also a big believer that bluegrass can stay true to its roots while still reaching new audiences.

And of course, the accent probably gives me away before I even sing a note!

Tell us about your newest project. What was the inspiration behind it?

My newest album, Winds of Change, was released in October 2026 on Billy Blue Records, and it’s a particularly personal project for me.

The title really says it all. Life has a way of throwing things at you that you never saw coming, and sometimes the biggest changes are the ones that help you discover who you really are.

Over the past few years, I’ve experienced a lot of change, both personally and professionally. This album reflects some of that journey, the heartbreak, the growth, the uncertainty, and ultimately finding the strength to keep moving forward.

I wanted to make an album that felt honest and reflected where I am in my life right now. I’m incredibly proud of the songs, the musicians, and everyone who helped bring it to life.

As an independent artist, what has been your biggest obstacle?

I think one of the biggest challenges is wearing so many hats. People see you on stage doing what you love, but they don’t always see everything that goes on behind the scenes.

You’re not just an artist. You’re often your own booking agent, marketing team, social media manager, accountant, travel coordinator, and about ten other things!

Being an Australian artist working internationally has also brought its own challenges. Building a career in another country, away from family and everything familiar, takes a lot of determination.

The hardest part is probably finding the balance between being creative and running what is essentially a small business. But I’ve learned a lot along the way, and I’m incredibly grateful for the people who have supported me.

What are you most proud of so far in your music journey?

There are so many moments I’m proud of. Having a number one album on the Billboard Bluegrass Chart with Let It Burn was pretty incredible, and winning seven Golden Guitar Awards back home in Australia is something I’ll never take for granted.

But beyond the awards and chart positions, I’m probably most proud of the fact that I took a chance on a dream that seemed pretty impossible at times.

I was a girl from Australia who loved bluegrass music, and somehow that love has taken me around the world, allowed me to work with some of my musical heroes, and introduced me to people who have become lifelong friends.
I’m also proud that I’ve been able to help introduce bluegrass to audiences who may never have experienced it before. That means just as much to me as any award.

What is on your bucket list as an artist?

There are still so many places I’d love to play and people I’d love to collaborate with. I’d love to continue performing on some of the world’s biggest stages and festivals, and I’d love to see bluegrass continue to grow internationally.

One of my biggest goals is to keep creating music that stands the test of time. I’d love to have a song that people are still singing long after I’m gone.

And if I can continue traveling the world, making music with my friends, and meeting wonderful people along the way, I’ll consider myself pretty lucky!

If you could change anything about the music industry, what would it be?

I’d love to see more opportunities for artists to build sustainable careers without feeling like they have to chase trends or fit into a particular box.

There’s so much incredible music being made that doesn’t always get the attention it deserves, especially in genres like bluegrass.

I also think we need to place more value on the people behind the music, the songwriters, musicians, and independent artists who put so much time, money, and heart into creating it.

Music has become so accessible, which is wonderful, but I think sometimes we’ve forgotten the value of what goes into making it.

And I’d love to see more collaboration and support across the industry. There’s room for all of us to succeed, and I truly believe we’re stronger when we lift each other up.

What’s next for you?

Right now, I’m really excited to be sharing Winds of Change with the world. We’ve got more touring, new music, and some exciting things in the works.

I’m also passionate about continuing to help grow bluegrass internationally, connecting artists and audiences across different countries, and creating opportunities for the next generation of musicians.

More than anything, I want to keep making music that means something, keep challenging myself creatively, and enjoy the journey.

If I’ve learned anything over the past few years, it’s that life doesn’t always go according to plan, but sometimes the unexpected turns lead you exactly where you’re supposed to be.