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Key Information

Madeline Rae Merlo[2] (born February 9, 1994) is a Canadian country pop singer-songwriter. She signed to Open Road Recordings in 2013 and released her debut album, Free Soul, three years later. In 2015, Merlo received the "Rising Star" award from the Canadian Country Music Association. In 2021, she signed with the Nashville-based BBR Music Group,[3] joining their imprint Wheelhouse Records, and later being re-assigned to Stoney Creek Records.[4]

Early life

[edit]

Merlo grew up in Maple Ridge, British Columbia. Growing up, her house was often filled with music.[1] She had a desire to be a performer since the first time she sang in front of a crowd of people. In public school, she took part in her school talent show. She sang "Somewhere Over the Rainbow" and after that performance she decided that she wanted to be a singer.[5]

Throughout high school, Merlo played in a band and together they began gigging around. She also continued to hone her vocal skills by performing in musical theatre productions and taking every opportunity she could to further her skills as a performer.[6]

Merlo credits seeing Shania Twain at the first concert she ever attended to be the reason she pursued the genre of country music. Seeing a successful Canadian woman from a small town gave Merlo the confidence to pursue her career.[7]

Career

[edit]

Music career

[edit]

2011–2017: Early career and Free Soul

[edit]

At the age of 17 before she was signed, Merlo wrote songs and recorded music with BC-based writer and producer Dan Swinimer.[1] Swinimer signed her to his production company "Manicdown Productions", and they worked together for nearly two years. In 2012, Swinimer invited RGK Entertainment's Ron Kitchener to Vancouver to see Merlo perform at the Railway Club. Merlo signed with RGK Entertainment and Open Road Recordings as a result in 2013. A year later in February 2014, she released her debut single, "Sinking Like a Stone" which was produced and co-written by Swinimer.[8] It charted for twenty weeks on the Billboard Canada Country chart, peaking at number 32.[9]

She released a self-titled extended play via Open Road Recordings on July 22, 2014.[10] Her single "Honey Jack" became a hit in Canada, landing her the opening slot on The Road Trip Tour alongside Dean Brody and Paul Brandt. In 2015, Merlo won the CCMA Rising Star Award, and the BCCMA Female Artist of the Year. After those big wins, Madeline released a series of singles including "War Paint", "Over and Over", and "Whatcha Wanna Do About It" which entered into the top 10 at Canadian Country Radio. Her debut album Free Soul was released in 2016.

Her single "War Paint" from Free Soul garnered fan support on social media, and was the No. 1 Most Added country song in Canada in its debut week. It was written in response to the loss of one of her friends to mental illness. She dedicated the song to all those who suffer alone, hoping it might bring them hope, and a will to battle and survive.[5] In 2017, "Motel Flamingo" was her 4th song to land in the Top 15 at Canadian Country Radio. Her next single "Neon Love" in 2018 also managed to enter the Top 15 at Canadian country radio making it her 5th single to enter in the Top 15.

2020–present: Songland appearance, Slide and One House Down (from the Girl Next Door)

[edit]

On April 13, 2020, Madeline won the first episode of the second season of Songland with her song "Champagne Night" written for Lady Antebellum and produced by Shane McAnally. She then released her seventh and eighth Top 20 singles in Canada, "Kiss Kiss"[11] and "It Didn't".[12]

In 2021, Merlo signed her debut U.S. record deal with BBR Music Group in Nashville.[3] She subsequently released the extended play Slide via their imprint Wheelhouse Records on September 23, 2022.[13] She also provided backing vocals on Cole Swindell's single "She Had Me at Heads Carolina.[14] In 2023, she released the single "Tim + Faith".[15][16] The song would become her first top five hit on the Billboard Canada Country chart.[9]

In August 2024, Merlo released the single "Broken Heart Thing" featuring Dustin Lynch.[17] The song was included on her extended play One House Down (from the Girl Next Door), which was released on October 11, 2024, via BBR's Stoney Creek Records.[18] She was nominated for "Female Artist of the Year" at the 2024 Canadian Country Music Awards.[19]

Acting career

[edit]

In 2017, Merlo starred alongside Jana Kramer and Sophie Tweed-Simmons in the musical film, Country Crush, which saw her play the lead role of a young woman trying to make it as a country singer. She also did the singing voice of Sonata Dusk in My Little Pony: Equestria Girls – Rainbow Rocks.

Personal life

[edit]

Merlo moved to Nashville, Tennessee, in 2018. On April 22, 2023, at the Long Hollow Gardens in Gallatin, Tennessee, Merlo married Nashville Attorney Chase Fann.[20]

Filmography

[edit]
Year Title Role Notes
2014 My Little Pony: Equestria Girls – Rainbow Rocks Sonata Dusk (voice) As singing voice for Maryke Hendrikse's character
2016 Country Crush Nancy Taylor
2020 Songland Herself Episode: "Lady Antebellum"

Discography

[edit]

Studio albums

[edit]
Title Details Peak
positions
CAN
[21]
Free Soul
  • Release date: April 29, 2016
  • Label: Open Road
 88

Extended plays

[edit]
Title Details
Madeline Merlo
  • Release date: July 22, 2014
  • Label: Open Road
Slide
  • Release date: September 23, 2022
  • Label: Wheelhouse
One House Down (From the Girl Next Door)
  • Release date: October 11, 2024
  • Label: Stoney Creek

Singles

[edit]
Year Title Peak positions Certifications Album
CAN Country
[9]
2014 "Sinking Like a Stone" 32 Free Soul
"Alive" 42
2015 "Honey Jack" 25
2016 "Whatcha Wanna Do About It" 10
"War Paint" 13
2017 "Over and Over" 13
"Motel Flamingo" 8 Non-album singles
2018 "Neon Love" 11
2019 "Unraveling" 23
"Dear Me" 10
2020 "Kiss Kiss" 13
"It Didn't" 17
2022 "Slide" 6 Slide
2023 "Tim + Faith" 5 Non-album single
2024 "Broken Heart Thing"
(featuring Dustin Lynch) 		6 One House Down (from the Girl Next Door)
2025 "Middle of the Bed" 8

Christmas singles

[edit]
Year Title Album
2014 "Jolly Ol' Redneck"[23] Non-album singles
2016 "White Christmas"[24]

Music videos

[edit]
Year Video Director
2014 "Sinking Like a Stone" Adam Rothlein
"Alive" John "JP" Poliquin
2016 "Whatcha Wanna Do About It" Adam Rothlein
"War Paint" (Unplugged) Rami Mikhail
2017 "Over and Over"
"Crush"
"Motel Flamingo" Jaren Hayman
2018 "Neon Love" Rami Mikhail
2019 "Dear Me" Stephano Barberis
2020 "Kiss Kiss" Brian K. Vaughn
2021 "It Didn't" The Edde Brothers
2022 "Slide" Preston Leatherman

Awards and nominations

[edit]
Year Association Category Result
2015 British Columbia Country Music Association Female Vocalist of the Year Won [25]
Canadian Country Music Association Rising Star Won [26]
2016
 British Columbia Country Music Association Female Vocalist of the Year Won [27]
Album of the Year – Free Soul Nominated
Single of the Year – "What Ya Wanna Do About It" Nominated
Video of the Year – "War Paint" Nominated
2017 Western Canadian Music Awards Country Artist of the Year Nominated [28]
Canadian Country Music Association Female Artist of the Year Nominated [29]
2018 Canadian Country Music Association Female Artist of the Year Nominated [30]
2021 Canadian Country Music Association Songwriter of the Year - "Champagne Night" (shared with Shane McAnally, Hillary Scott, Charles Kelley, Dave Haywood, Tina Parol, David Thomson, Patricia Conroy, Ryan Tedder, Esther Dean, Andrew DeRoberts) Won [31]
[32]
2024 Canadian Country Music Association Female Artist of the Year Nominated [19]
2025 Canadian Country Music Association Female Artist of the Year Nominated [33]
[34]
Musical Collaboration of the Year — "Broken Heart Thing" (with Dustin Lynch) Won
Songwriter(s) of the Year — "Broken Heart Thing" (with Zach Crowell, Lalo Guzman, James McNair, Michael Tyler) Nominated

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Madeline Merlo

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Madeline Merlo is a Canadian known for her blend of soulful influences and modern , born and raised in . Growing up in a small town surrounded by nature, she drew early inspiration from family sing-alongs, '90s country icons like and , and soul artists such as and . Discovered via as a teenager, Merlo began visiting Nashville for songwriting trips at age 16 and signed her first record deal with Open Road Recordings at 18, quickly achieving radio success in . Merlo's career gained momentum with her 2015 CCMA Rising Star Award, followed by her 2016 debut album , which included hits like "Whatcha Wanna Do About It" and "War Paint." In 2018, she relocated to Nashville and signed with , expanding her reach into the U.S. market. A pivotal moment came in 2020 when she won NBC's competition with her song "Champagne Night," co-written for , which topped the Country Airplay chart for three weeks and achieved platinum certification. This success led to her 2021 CCMA Songwriter of the Year award and further releases, including the single "It Didn't" (over 10 million streams) and the 2022 EP Slide. Continuing her rise, Merlo released the 2024 EP One House Down (from the girl next door), produced by Zach Crowell and featuring collaborations with on the title track and on "Broken Heart Thing." In 2025, she released the single "Middle of the Bed" and featured on Adam Doleac's "Day One." Her work has been recognized with inclusion in CMT's "Next Women of Country" class of 2024, highlighting her emotional lyricism and relatable storytelling in contemporary .

Early life

Childhood

Madeline Rae Merlo was born on February 9, 1994, in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, Canada. Raised in the small blueberry farming community of Maple Ridge near Vancouver, Merlo spent her childhood immersed in the surrounding natural landscape, which included frequent horseback riding and access to the ocean, woods, and mountains. This rural environment fostered a sense of adventure and connection to the outdoors, shaping her early years in a close-knit, nature-oriented setting. Merlo grew up in a musical household that profoundly influenced her early interest in performing. Her father was a touring and musician, while her mother was an avid enthusiast, and together they owned a live that filled their home with constant sounds of various genres. Multiple family members played instruments and sang, providing ongoing encouragement and exposure that sparked her passion for music from a very young age. During her early school years, Merlo began showcasing her talents publicly, performing for the first time at age six in her where she sang "Somewhere Over the Rainbow." She continued participating in musical theater productions and school performances throughout adolescence, honing her skills in local settings before pursuing broader opportunities. She declared her dream of becoming a singer in a second-grade school project. At age 10, attending her first concert—a show—further ignited her aspirations.

Entry into entertainment

Merlo's passion for , nurtured during her childhood in , evolved into active pursuit as a teenager, where she began writing her own songs by re-writing lyrics to her favorite tracks before creating original compositions. At the age of 16, she started making songwriting trips to Nashville, immersing herself in the city's creative environment to hone her craft and connect with the industry. As she progressed through high school, Merlo gained early recognition through local and school performances, including singing the at basketball games, appearing at events, and performing at her high school graduation. She also joined a band and began gigging locally, which helped build her stage presence and vocal skills in musical theater productions. These experiences in her community spotlighted her talent among peers and locals, setting the foundation for broader opportunities. By around 2011, at age 17, Merlo received her first significant industry exposure through participation in talent competitions and nights, which showcased her songwriting and performance abilities to professionals. This momentum culminated in her signing her first record deal with Open Road Recordings in February 2013, at the age of 18 (turning 19 later that year), marking her official entry into the professional scene under RGK .

Career

Music career

Merlo began her professional music career in the scene, gaining early traction with radio airplay in 2014 and 2015. Her breakthrough came with the 2015 CCMA Rising Star Award, which highlighted her momentum as a newcomer following the release of singles like "Whatcha Wanna Do About It." This pre-album success positioned her as a promising talent in the genre, leading to her full-length debut. In 2016, Merlo released her debut album Free Soul through Open Road Recordings, which featured the singles "War Paint" and "Over and Over." "War Paint" became her first major hit, peaking at number 13 on the Billboard Canada Country chart. The album showcased her blend of traditional country storytelling with pop sensibilities, receiving positive reviews for its energetic production and Merlo's vocal range, though it did not chart highly on broader Billboard lists. Merlo expanded her profile in 2020 by winning NBC's (Season 2 premiere, April 13), where she co-wrote "Champagne Night," selected by ; the song topped the Country Airplay chart for three weeks and achieved platinum certification in the U.S. This marked her first major U.S. placement as a songwriter. That success contributed to her 2021 CCMA Songwriter of the Year award. She also released singles like "It Didn't" (over 10 million streams as of 2024) and "Kiss Kiss" (peaking at #13 on Canada Country). In 2021, Merlo signed with Nashville-based (a subsidiary of BMG), following her 2018 relocation to Nashville, allowing her to pursue a broader audience while retaining her Canadian roots. This move facilitated the 2022 release of her Slide EP (via Wheelhouse Records), which included tracks "Slide," "YOUNG-ish," "Girl Where He Grew Up," and "I Need A Drink," emphasizing emotional depth over traditional country tropes. The EP underscored her evolving sound. Her career gained renewed traction in 2023 with the single "Tim + Faith," a nostalgic tribute to and that received widespread radio support across . Building on this, Merlo released the ONE HOUSE DOWN (from the girl next door) EP in 2024 via BBR, produced by Zach Crowell and featuring collaborations with on the title track and Dustin Lynch on "Broken Heart Thing." Other tracks include "," "Same Car," "Middle of the Bed," and "Good Grief." "Broken Heart Thing" debuted at number 28 on the U.S. Country chart. These tracks highlighted her growth into a more polished style, with production incorporating electronic elements and themes of resilience. The EP's release was accompanied by a 2024 CCMA for Female Artist of the Year, along with her inclusion in CMT's "Next Women of " class of 2024. Entering 2025, Merlo continued her output with the single "Day One," a collaboration featuring her vocals on a track by Canadian artist , which entered the Canada at number 15 (peaking at #17 as of 2025) and emphasized themes of new beginnings. Her transition from a Canada-focused country artist to a Nashville-based performer has broadened her appeal, incorporating pop production while preserving heartfelt narratives, as evidenced by her ongoing CCMA recognition.

Acting career

Merlo began her acting career with voice work in , providing the singing voice for the character Sonata Dusk in the 2014 film My Little Pony: Equestria Girls – Rainbow Rocks, a musical adventure produced by Studios and DHX Media where the character is part of the antagonistic Dazzlings group using siren-like powers through song. This role marked her entry into , leveraging her musical background to contribute to the film's soundtrack, including performances in songs like "Under Our Spell." In 2017, Merlo transitioned to live-action with her lead role as Nancy Taylor, an aspiring country singer navigating romance and career ambitions, in the musical film Country Crush, directed by Joe Hendrickson and produced by Good Soldier Films and First Beacon Entertainment. Filmed in Ontario, Canada, the movie features Merlo alongside actors like Jana Kramer and Munro Chambers, blending country music performances with a storyline about small-town romance and industry pressures; she has described diving into the role despite limited prior acting experience, feeling like a "fish out of water" during production. The film received mixed reception, praised for its energetic musical numbers but critiqued for predictable plotting, earning a 53% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a 5.1/10 on IMDb. No major acting roles have followed post-2017, with her endeavors primarily centered on music.

Artistry

Musical style

Madeline Merlo's music is primarily classified as country pop, characterized by its blend of traditional country elements with contemporary pop sensibilities, delivering upbeat rhythms and accessible melodies. Her songwriting emphasizes lyric-driven narratives that explore relatable themes of love, heartbreak, and personal empowerment, often drawing from everyday emotional experiences to connect with listeners on an intimate level. Merlo's style features fresh melodies paired with catchy hooks designed for broad appeal, evolving over time from the more straightforward sounds of her debut album in 2016 to increasingly pop-infused arrangements in later releases such as the 2024 EP One House Down (from the girl next door). Tracks like "Slide" showcase this approach, combining infectious choruses with subtle pop production to enhance her . A hallmark of her work is the emphasis on emotional insight in the lyrics, which she has described as a core focus in her projects, allowing for deeper explorations of self-worth and healing. Following her 2021 signing with Nashville-based , her production incorporates influences from the city's vibrant country scene, including polished instrumentation and collaborative songwriting that amplifies her vocal delivery and thematic depth.

Influences

Madeline Merlo has frequently cited Shania Twain as her primary musical inspiration, describing her as a childhood idol whose groundbreaking fusion of country and pop profoundly shaped her artistic direction. Attending Twain's concert at age 10 was a pivotal moment that convinced Merlo to pursue country music, highlighting Twain's role in blending genres and empowering female voices in the industry. Merlo's influences extend to other prominent '90s country figures, particularly and , whose harmonious partnership and emotive storytelling she has long admired. This admiration is directly referenced in her 2023 single "Tim + Faith," a track that pays homage to the duo as enduring icons of romantic country narratives and couple goals within the genre. She also draws from and soul artists such as and , which contribute to the soulful undertones in her music. Her upbringing in the rural landscapes of further molded her artistic sensibilities, where the natural surroundings of oceans, woods, and blueberry fields served as a constant backdrop to her immersion in country music. This environment, combined with early exposure to strong female country artists, fostered a deep connection to themes of nature and authenticity in her songwriting. Beginning at age 16, Merlo's regular songwriting trips to Nashville immersed her in the heart of country music's creative hub, honing her craft and instilling a disciplined professional ethos centered on and perseverance. These experiences solidified her commitment to authentic, narrative-driven songwriting that resonates universally.

Personal life

Marriage and family

Madeline Merlo met Nashville attorney Chase Fann in 2020 at the Tin Roof bar, a local live in . The pair connected quickly, with Merlo later recalling that she texted her family the day after their meeting to say she had met her future husband. Fann proposed to Merlo on April 2, 2022, during a private moment at a friend's farm in Kingston Springs, Tennessee, after they had been together for two years. Merlo, who had long sensed Fann was "the one," described the proposal as a joyful surprise, and the couple celebrated with family, including calls to Merlo's relatives in . They announced their engagement publicly shortly thereafter. The couple married on April 22, 2023, in a garden-inspired ceremony at Long Hollow Gardens in , attended by close family and friends. Merlo called the event a "dream come true," incorporating personal elements like an afterparty at the Tin Roof bar where they first met. Following the wedding, they planned a honeymoon in . Merlo and Fann marked their second wedding anniversary in April 2025, reflecting on their shared journey in Nashville.

Residence

Originally from Maple Ridge, British Columbia, Merlo relocated from Canada to Nashville, Tennessee, in 2017 to immerse herself in the heart of the country music industry, driving a U-Haul southward without prior connections in the city to chase songwriting and recording prospects. By October 2025, she marked eight years in Nashville, crediting the move for forging key professional relationships and growth in her artistry. Despite her established base in Nashville, Merlo has expressed an enduring preference for her roots, stating in a January 2025 interview that she would choose the off over any other and affirming that " will always be in her heart" even as she performs at venues like the Grand Ole Opry. Her to Nashville attorney Chase Fann in April 2023 has reinforced her settled life there, blending personal stability with career demands. Merlo maintains strong ties to Canada through performances that highlight her origins, such as headlining the family-friendly Downtown Countdown celebration in , , on 2024, where she performed amid fireworks and local festivities to ring in 2025.

Filmography

Film

Merlo made her feature film debut in the romantic musical Country Crush, released on March 14, 2017. In the film, she portrayed the lead role of Nancy Taylor, a city girl who discovers her passion for after a chance encounter in a small town. Directed by Andrew Cymek, the movie blends romance, comedy, and original country songs, with Merlo contributing vocals to the that tie into her established career. No other major feature film roles or cameos for Merlo have been credited following Country Crush.

Television

Merlo provided the singing voice for Sonata Dusk in the animated musical special My Little Pony: Equestria Girls – Rainbow Rocks, which premiered theatrically in limited release before airing on in October 2014. She appeared as a contestant and songwriter on the season 2 premiere episode of the competition series in April 2020, pitching her original composition "Champagne Night" to guest mentors Lady Antebellum. Merlo performed live with Tyler Joe Miller during the 2025 Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) Awards broadcast on September 13, 2025, from Prospera Place in , .

Discography

Studio albums

Madeline Merlo's debut studio album, , was released on April 29, 2016, by the Canadian label Open Road Recordings. The record marked her first full-length project following an earlier EP and showcased her blend of with soulful vocals and relatable themes of love, freedom, and self-discovery. Upon its release, debuted at number 88 on the Canadian Albums Chart. The album comprises 11 original tracks, co-written by Merlo alongside a team of Nashville collaborators. Key singles from the project include "Whatcha Wanna Do About It," which became a top 10 hit on the Billboard Canada Country chart, as well as "War Paint," "Over and Over," "Honey Jack," "Alive," and "Sinking Like a Stone." These songs highlight Merlo's songwriting prowess and her ability to craft anthemic hooks with emotional depth. The full track listing is as follows:
  1. Whatcha Wanna Do About It
  2. War Paint
  3. Over and Over
  4. Holding on to Freedom
  5. Tumbling
  6. Honey Jack
  7. Ready to Say Goodnight
  8. Crush
  9. Sinking Like a Stone
  10. Alive
  11. Twist of Fate
Free received recognition within the Canadian community, earning a for Album of the Year at the 2016 British Columbia Country Music Association Awards. The project solidified Merlo's rising status in the genre, contributing to her CCMA Rising Star Award win the previous year and paving the way for subsequent releases.

Extended plays

Madeline Merlo released her debut self-titled on July 22, 2014, through Open Road Recordings. The five-track project introduced her country-pop sound, featuring singles like "Sinking " and highlighting her with a mix of upbeat and introspective tracks. Her second EP, Slide, arrived on September 23, 2022, via /Wheelhouse Records. This four-track collection, produced by Zach Crowell and co-written by Merlo, explores themes of powerful female narratives, including budding romances and personal growth, with a spirited blend of country-pop energy. Merlo's latest EP, One House Down (from the girl next door), was released on October 11, 2024, under /Stoney Creek Records. The six-song project delivers deeply personal and relatable lyrics centered on self-worth and encouragement directed toward her younger self, marking a emotionally resonant evolution in her songwriting.

Singles

Merlo's debut single "Sinking Like a Stone" was released in February 2014 under Open Road Recordings, marking her entry into Canadian . Subsequent singles from her early career and album showcased her style. Following her 2020 appearance on NBC's , where she won with "Champagne Night" (later recorded by ), Merlo shifted to independent releases before signing with /Wheelhouse in 2021, leading to a string of chart-climbing singles focused on heartbreak and resilience. In the 2020s, her singles gained traction on Canadian country radio. "Kiss Kiss," released on April 24, 2020, marked an early post-Songland effort with its upbeat country pop vibe. "It Didn't," released October 28, 2020, amassed over 10 million Spotify streams with its sassy country-funk and soul vibe. By 2023, "Tim + Faith," released on September 15, became her breakthrough, peaking at No. 4 on the Billboard Canada Country chart and earning her first top-five entry. This nostalgic track paid homage to Tim McGraw and Faith Hill while resonating with audiences through its relatable romance theme. Subsequent releases under BBR/Wheelhouse amplified her visibility. "Makeup," a raw confessional about personal struggles, arrived on January 19, 2024. Later that year, "Broken Heart Thing" featuring was released on August 9, blending duet chemistry with themes of post-breakup coping. The EP One House Down (from the girl next door) followed on October 11, 2024, introducing "Good Grief" and "Middle of the Bed" as singles exploring emotional recovery. A single version of "Middle of the Bed" was issued on May 30, 2025. In 2025, Merlo collaborated on "Day One" with , released September 5, emphasizing new beginnings.
TitleRelease DateCollaborationNotes/Chart Performance
Sinking Like a StoneFebruary 2014NoneDebut single; peaked at No. 32 on Country.
Alive2014NoneFrom self-titled EP.
Honey Jack2015NoneFrom .
Whatcha Wanna Do About It2016NoneTop 10 on Country.
War PaintApril 29, 2016NoneFrom ; serviced to radio June 24, 2016.
Neon Love2017NonePost-album single.
Dear Me2019NoneTop 20 on Canadian country radio.
Kiss KissApril 24, 2020NoneIndependent release post-Songland.
It Didn'tOctober 28, 2020NoneOver 10 million streams.
Tim + FaithSeptember 15, 2023NonePeaked at No. 4 on Country.
MakeupJanuary 19, 2024NonePersonal track on vulnerability.
Broken Heart ThingAugust 9, 2024Duet on heartbreak; from One House Down EP.
Good GriefOctober 11, 2024NoneFrom One House Down EP; focuses on healing.
Middle of the BedOctober 11, 2024 (EP version); May 30, 2025 (single)NoneExplores ; single version post-EP.
Day OneSeptember 5, 2025Collaboration on optimism after loss.

Christmas singles

TitleRelease DateCollaborationNotes
Jolly Ol' RedneckDecember 2014NoneHoliday single from self-titled EP era.
White ChristmasDecember 16, 2016NoneCover released via Open Road Recordings.
Have Yourself a Merry Little ChristmasDecember 22, 2021Featured on their holiday album.

Music videos

Madeline Merlo has released several official throughout her career, often emphasizing themes of , romance, and emotional resilience in line with her country-pop style. These visuals accompany key singles and highlight her storytelling through dynamic narratives and personal performances. Early videos include "Sinking " (2014), establishing her presence, and "Whatcha Wanna Do About It" (2016), capturing playful romance. One of her notable videos is for "War Paint (Unplugged)," released on June 10, 2016, which features an intimate acoustic performance addressing struggles and self-, drawing from the song's lyrics about facing difficult days. The video's raw, unplugged format underscores Merlo's vulnerability, aligning with the track's inspirational message. In 2020, Merlo released the music video for "Kiss Kiss" on August 3, directed by Brian K. Vaughn, portraying a sultry, flirtatious party scene that captures the song's playful sensuality and romantic tension. The visuals emphasize Merlo's confident , enhancing the single's upbeat energy. The video for the title track "Slide," from her 2022 EP, premiered on October 26, 2022, showcasing an exuberant, feel-good narrative that reflects the song's catchy, dance-inspired vibe and themes of carefree enjoyment. "Tim + Faith," released on September 14, 2023, pays homage to country icons and through nostalgic imagery and heartfelt performance, evoking enduring love and musical legacy. "Makeup," released January 19, 2024, features raw emotional visuals matching the song's confessional tone. Merlo's most recent video, "Broken Heart Thing" featuring , was released on August 8, 2024, and directed by Jack Owens; it depicts the emotional turmoil of a with poignant scenes of the duo navigating post-relationship confusion. The video's thematic focus on heartbreak's complexity amplifies the duet's melodic introspection.
TitleRelease DateDirectorThematic Elements
Sinking Like a Stone2014N/AIntroduction to her sound and storytelling.
Whatcha Wanna Do About It2016N/APlayful romance and energy.
War Paint (Unplugged)June 10, 2016N/A awareness and personal empowerment through intimate acoustics.
Kiss KissAugust 3, 2020Brian K. VaughnFlirtatious romance and sensuality in a lively social setting.
SlideOctober 26, 2022N/AJoyful, carefree with energetic visuals.
Tim + FaithSeptember 14, 2023N/ANostalgic to and icons.
MakeupJanuary 19, 2024N/AVulnerability and personal struggles.
Broken Heart Thing (feat. )August 8, 2024Jack OwensEmotional fallout from romance, blending vulnerability and chemistry.

Awards and nominations

Awards won

Madeline Merlo has received several accolades throughout her career, primarily from the Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA), recognizing her contributions as a , and actress. She has also won awards from the Country Music Association (BCCMA). In 2015, she won the CCMA Rising Star Award, recognizing her early radio success with singles like "Whatcha Wanna Do About It," which preceded her debut album (2016). That year, she also received the BCCMA Female award. Merlo shared the 2021 CCMA Songwriter(s) of the Year Award with co-writers Patricia Conroy, Andrew DeRoberts, , , , and Tina Parol for the song "Champagne Night," recorded by , which achieved No. 1 status on the chart. In 2021, she also received the SOCAN No. 1 Song Award for co-writing "Champagne Night." That same year, "Champagne Night" earned an ASCAP as one of the most performed songs. At the 2025 CCMA Awards, Merlo won Musical of the Year for "Broken Heart Thing" featuring . In 2023, she won the BCCMA Top Performing Single for "Slide." In the acting realm, Merlo received the in a award at the 2016 Lake Charles for her lead role in the Country Crush.

Nominations

Madeline Merlo has received numerous nominations from the Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA), recognizing her contributions to as a performer, songwriter, and collaborator. She has been nominated for Female Artist of the Year five times, in 2016, 2017, 2018, 2024, and 2025, highlighting her consistent impact in the genre. In 2016, she competed alongside , Kira Isabella, , and . In 2017, she competed alongside Alee, , , and . The following year, her 2018 nomination placed her against , , , and . Merlo earned another nod in 2024, facing , , , and Alli Walker. Her 2025 nomination in the category continued this streak, underscoring her evolving artistry. In 2025, Merlo secured three CCMA nominations in total, reflecting a standout year. These included Female Artist of the Year, as well as Musical Collaboration of the Year for "Broken Heart Thing" featuring , and Songwriter(s) of the Year for the same track, co-written with Zach Crowell, Lalo Guzman, , and Michael Tyler. She also performed at the 2025 CCMA Awards show, further showcasing her prominence in Canadian .
YearCategoryDetails
2016Female Artist of the YearNominated
2017Female Artist of the YearNominated
2018Female Artist of the YearNominated
2024Female Artist of the YearNominated
2025Female Artist of the YearNominated
2025Musical Collaboration of the Year"Broken Heart Thing" feat.
2025Songwriter(s) of the Year"Broken Heart Thing"

References

  1. https://www.redlightmanagement.com/artists/madeline-merlo/
  2. https://www.paquinentertainment.com/artist/madeline-merlo
  3. https://www.bbrmusicgroup.com/multi-platinum-1-hit-songwriter-madeline-merlo-shares-middle-bed-single-version/
  4. https://open.spotify.com/track/3q5Z6tKzY7zY7zY7zY7zY7
  5. https://www.famousbirthdays.com/people/madeline-merlo.html
  6. https://bethanybowman.com/2024/10/11/music-spotlight-madeline-merlo/
  7. https://www.facebook.com/siriusxmcanada/videos/from-bc-to-lasso-madeline-merlos-journey-started-with-one-shania-twain-concert-m/1058932842713152/
  8. https://www.soundexchange.com/creator-hub/creator/madeline-merlo/
  9. https://americansongwriter.com/madeline-merlos-road-to-nashville-leads-to-new-ep-slide/
  10. https://www.ellecanada.com/culture/music/dreamchaser-what-it-s-really-like-to-break-into-the-country-music-scene
  11. https://www.notablelife.com/madeline-merlo-notable-young-professional/
  12. https://tennesseestar.com/news/national/music-spotlight-madeline-merlo/bbowman/2024/10/12/
  13. https://countryswag.com/who-is-madeline-merlo-the-story-behind-her-journey-to-country-music/
  14. https://www.madelinemerlo.com/videos-1/v/xyd3sg8pwzj5ej4wzjtxrp2dw8cspt
  15. https://first-avenue.com/performer/madeline-merlo/
  16. https://www.madelinemerlo.com/
  17. https://coastalradio.ca/madeline-merlo-artist-of-the-week-2/
  18. https://mapleridgenews.com/2014/09/13/rising-country-star-in-hometown-appearance/
  19. https://www.bbrmusicgroup.com/artist/madeline-merlo/
  20. https://musicrow.com/2020/04/madeline-merlo-hits-top-spot-on-itunes-with-songland-composition/
  21. https://musicrow.com/2021/01/bbr-music-group-signs-madeline-merlo/
  22. https://madelinemerlo.lnk.to/slide
  23. https://ccma.org/2024-ccma-award-nominees/
  24. https://ca.billboard.com/charts/canada-country/2025-11-15
  25. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3529198/fullcredits/
  26. https://www.behindthevoiceactors.com/movies/My-Little-Pony-Equestria-Girls-Rainbow-Rocks/Sonata-Dusk/
  27. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3901944/fullcredits
  28. https://globalnews.ca/news/3520456/singer-madeline-merlo-on-role-in-country-crush-movie-i-just-kind-of-dove-into-it/
  29. https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/country_crush
  30. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm6667186/
  31. https://amplifymusicmag.com/interview-we-sit-down-for-a-chat-with-madeline-merlo/
  32. https://www.discogs.com/master/2991242-Madeline-Merlo-Free-Soul
  33. https://entertainment-focus.com/2024/10/11/review-madeline-merlos-new-one-house-down-from-the-girl-next-door-ep/
  34. https://rocknloadmag.com/multi-platinum-1-hit-songwriter-madeline-merlo-releases-brand-new-ep-one-house-down-from-the-girl-next-door-today/
  35. https://www.nsnews.com/local-arts/old-soul-madeline-merlo-inspired-by-nashville-scene-3015833
  36. https://www.cbc.ca/music/read/shania-did-everything-how-the-record-breaking-singer-shaped-canadian-country-music-1.5046705
  37. https://www.straight.com/music/madeline-merlos-new-single-tim-faith-pays-homage-to-two-country-greats
  38. https://thenarwhal.ca/moose-questionnaire-madeline-merlo/
  39. https://www.newtimes.co.rw/events?_evDiscoveryPath=/event/105592288n-madeline-merlo-hard-oil-music-festival
  40. https://www.madelinemerlo.com/tour
  41. https://countrynow.com/madeline-merlo-reflects-on-the-moment-she-learned-she-will-be-making-her-grand-ole-opry-debut-exclusive/
  42. https://people.com/country/madeline-merlo-marries-chase-fann-wedding-photos-exclusive/
  43. https://people.com/country/madeline-merlo-engaged-to-chase-fann-proposal-photos/
  44. https://www.instagram.com/p/DIw5rwXx4bb/
  45. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQcPOiTCalA/
  46. https://www.barrie.ca/government/news-notices/media-releases/barrie-will-ring-2025-madeline-merlo-headliner
  47. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt3901944/releaseinfo/
  48. https://topcountry.ca/country-crush-trailer-madeline-merlo/
  49. https://mlp.fandom.com/wiki/My_Little_Pony_Equestria_Girls:_Rainbow_Rocks
  50. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt12043402/
  51. https://musicrow.com/2025/09/canadian-country-music-association-reveals-ccma-award-winners/
  52. https://www.soundcheckentertainment.ca/free-soul-amazing/
  53. https://music.apple.com/ca/album/free-soul/1587030005
  54. https://music.youtube.com/browse/MPREb_9YnFEZPjvOF
  55. https://genius.com/albums/Madeline-merlo/Free-soul
  56. https://www.langleyadvancetimes.com/entertainment/langley-dominates-music-awards-shortlist
  57. https://ufvcascade.ca/soundbites-madeline-merlo-and-arkells/
  58. https://musicrow.com/2022/09/madeline-merlo-slides-into-a-new-chapter-with-upcoming-ep/
  59. https://www.bbrmusicgroup.com/nbcs-songland-winner-madeline-merlo-releases-lively-new-ep-slide-available-now/
  60. https://musicrow.com/2024/10/on-the-row-madeline-merlo-finds-her-sound-on-new-ep/
  61. https://www.madelinemerlo.com/videos-1/v/g5a58efh55mjwwcbl79jt7887a8l2l
  62. https://genius.com/Madeline-merlo-kiss-kiss-lyrics/q/release-date
  63. https://music.apple.com/ca/song/tim-faith/1704972130
  64. https://genius.com/Madeline-merlo-makeup-lyrics/q/release-date
  65. https://www.bbrmusicgroup.com/award-winning-songwriter-madeline-merlo-releases-melodic-duet-broken-heart-thing-multi-platinum-9x-1-hitmaker-dustin-lynch/
  66. https://genius.com/Madeline-merlo-good-grief-lyrics/q/release-date
  67. https://songdata.io/track/1UykuOxBRThpGGvgtOlIAC/Day-One-feat-Madeline-Merlo-by-Adam-Doleac-Madeline-Merlo
  68. https://genius.com/Madeline-merlo-war-paint-lyrics/q/release-date
  69. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DCQnV1mNWZk
  70. https://topcountry.ca/madeline-merlo-war-paint-unplugged-music-video/
  71. https://countrynow.com/madeline-merlo-releases-sultry-kiss-kiss-music-video/
  72. https://www.bbrmusicgroup.com/nbcs-songland-winner-madeline-merlo-debuts-official-music-video-exuberant-title-track-just-released-ep-slide/
  73. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RyBkdtrXDKY
  74. https://celebsecrets.com/madeline-merlo-says-her-collab-with-dustin-lynch-on-new-song-broken-heart-thing-came-from-one-simple-text-message-exclusive/
  75. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4_svKpdQhvw
  76. https://completecountry.ca/madeline-merlo-releases-melodic-duet-broken-heart-thing-feat-dustin-lynch/
  77. https://musiccanada.wordpress.com/2021/11/29/the-ccma-awards-2021-winners/
  78. https://www.socanmagazine.ca/news/video-socan-honours-madeline-merlo-with-no-1-song-award/
  79. https://www.ascap.com/news-events/awards/2021/country-awards
  80. https://www.instagram.com/p/DOh4DPKjvig/
  81. https://mapleridgenews.com/2023/11/08/maple-ridge-country-music-star-takes-home-bccma-award/
  82. https://ccma.org/2025-ccma-award-nominees/
  83. https://members.ccma.org/cgi/page.cgi/_article.html/News/2016_CCMA_Awards_Nominees
  84. https://members.ccma.org/cgi/page.cgi/_article.html/News/2017_CCMA_Award_Nominees
  85. https://members.ccma.org/cgi/page.cgi/_article.html/CCMA_AWARDS/2018_CCMA_Awards_Nominees
  86. https://surreynowleader.com/2025/07/29/bc-country-star-madeline-merlo-chasing-3-ccma-awards-singing-on-awards-show/
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