Ryan Upchurch: The Genre-Bending Rebel of Independent Music

“You either love him or hate him—either way, Ryan Upchurch isn’t going anywhere.” This statement has rung true since his debut. The numbers speak volumes, suggesting he’s only getting louder. With over 3.45 billion streams and a dedicated fan base that rivals major label efforts, Upchurch has achieved the unthinkable. He built a music empire without handouts, radio play, or apologies.

Side note: Our Top 100 Country Rappers list can be viewed at the link below. We count streaming numbers to rank the artists.

TOP 100 COUNTRY RAPPERS (click here)

Rise of the Redneck Rebel

Upchurch began his journey with raw, unfiltered videos on Facebook. That soon escalated into a full-scale takeover of the independent music world. He's not just a rapper or a country singer; he's created a genre all his own. By blending outlaw grit with Southern storytelling, he established a niche that few could fill.

Despite the industry's attempts to box him in, Upchurch defied the rules. He flipped the bird to conventions and laughed his way to the top of the charts. Millions of followers joined him on this journey, and his relentless release schedule ensures that he isn't merely part of the conversation—he is the conversation.

No Industry Co-Sign Needed

Unlike many artists waiting for Nashville to notice them, Upchurch took his destiny into his own hands. Through a smartphone and sheer determination, he created a movement. His music combines Southern rock influences as he boldly tells the industry to stay out of his way. Fans have followed him in droves.

He has outsold artists with ten times the budget, proving that independent success is possible. By building his lane, he paved the way for other aspiring artists. Upchurch's early collaborations and co-signs significantly raised the visibility of artists like Adam Calhoun, Who TF Is Justin Time?, and Katie Noel. Through viral videos and joint projects, Upchurch helped these artists gain traction, all while the industry turned a blind eye. He was not just making music; he was constructing a vibrant scene.

The Streaming Monster

Few independent artists can match Upchurch's numbers. With dozens of albums, millions of loyal followers, and a digital presence across YouTube, Spotify, and Facebook, his content doesn't just rack up views—it dominates timelines. His hustle has earned him numerous platinum and gold records, making his presence impossible to ignore.

Regardless of how you feel about him, Upchurch is often at the heart of numerous debates. His fiery lyrics and unfiltered social media posts have sparked conversations across the internet. Interestingly, each controversy seems to bolster his popularity. While some artists apologize to remain relevant, Upchurch doubles down, only attracting more fans. Critics once dismissed him as a YouTube gimmick, yet he has evolved into a genre-bending giant.

His catalog now ranges from hard-hitting rap to outlaw country and acoustic heartbreak ballads. What began as comedic relief has transformed into a body of work with significant musical depth. Ryan Upchurch's career demonstrates that success doesn't rely on industry approval; it depends on vision, grit, and a dedicated following. Whether in your corner or not, there’s one undeniable fact: Upchurch is not fading away. He is simply getting louder.

The Dixielanders

The Dixielanders

Ryan Upchurch has never limited himself to one genre. Once he made strides in country rap, he transferred his energy into rock music with his new band, The Dixielanders. This movement marks a significant step in his evolution as an artist. His earlier albums, Creeker (2018) and Creeker II (2019), showcased his love for hard and southern rock influences.

The Dixielanders have released several tracks, including “Flame & Halo,” “Massacre,” and “Honeysuckles & Rain.” These tracks feature music videos that highlight the band’s distinct southern rock aesthetic. Upchurch has expressed his enthusiasm about this new chapter, stating on Instagram, “Dude I’m so excited for this new beginning with @thedixielanders. Rock music is already a different level/realm of music in itself.”

This shift into rock isn't merely a side project. It's a testament to Upchurch’s versatility and commitment to growth. By founding The Dixielanders, he not only diversifies his musical catalog but also infuses his independent spirit into a new genre. This move further solidifies his position in the music industry and assures fans that there are many more exciting things to come. With every new release, Upchurch continues to inspire, innovate, and expand.