Rissi Palmer

Rissi Palmer made history in 2007 with her breakthrough single, "Country Girl," from her self-titled debut album, becoming the first Black female country artist to chart on the Billboard Hot Country Singles Chart since Dona Mason in 1987. That same year, Palmer’s digital EP ranked among iTunes' Top 5 Best-Selling Country Artists, marking a significant moment in her career.

Undeterred by the challenges of being a Black woman in mainstream country music, Palmer has charted her own path with the independent release of three albums. These include the critically acclaimed Revival (2019), named one of Rolling Stone's "Top 25 Country-Soul Albums of All Time", the soulful Back Porch Sessions EP (2015), and the children’s album Best Day Ever. In 2021, Palmer was included in Rolling Stone’s "Future 25" list, recognizing her significant impact on the music industry. She is currently finishing a new album set for release in Spring 2025.

In addition to her music, Palmer is the host of Color Me Country Radio with Rissi Palmer, on Apple Music, where she challenges listeners to rethink stereotypes surrounding people of color in country music. She also founded the Color Me Country Artist Grant Fund, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting emerging artists of color.

Palmer's influence extends beyond music. In 2023, she was featured in PBS's American Masters: In The Making series, which highlighted her cultural impact. The documentary RISSI PALMER: STILL HERE gave fans an intimate look into her life on tour, her creative process, and balancing career with family.

A recognized figure in both Country and Americana music, Palmer has performed at prestigious venues such as The White House, the Grand Ole Opry, Lincoln Center, and the Apollo Theater. She has appeared on national television shows including ABC News Live, CBS Mornings, Good Morning America, Entertainment Tonight, and PBS NewsHour, with her work earning praise from outlets like Associated Press, Rolling Stone, Essence, The New York Times, The Washington Post, and more.

Notably, Palmer is one of only nine Black female artists to have charted singles on Billboard's Country Charts, underscoring her lasting influence in the music world. She continues to tour across the U.S. and internationally and serves as a special correspondent for CMT Hot 20 Countdown. Additionally, she holds the esteemed position of Governor at the Recording Academy Nashville.