This award is for a group or individual, new to the national or international Western scene, having made considerable advances artistically and/or commercially during the eligibility period. The band or individual should be performing under its/his/her name on a regular basis and not have more than two previous finalist nominations for this award. This award recognizes the group or individual artist.
The Hanson Family
Richard Lee Cody & Mary Kaye
and Carin Mari & Pony Express (youth)
STAMPEDE! and Eli Barsi (tie)
Kip Calahan
Hot Club of Cowtown