Grace Bowers is not just another name in the contemporary music scene; she’s a force of nature, an 18-year-old award-winning guitarist and songwriter rapidly ascending to guitar hero status. Her debut album, Wine On Venus, independently released and produced by John Osborne of Brothers Osborne, has ignited widespread acclaim, solidifying her position as a significant figure in modern guitar music. Publications like Forbes have lauded the album as “an infectious, joyous party,” while Rolling Stone has already crowned Bowers as “Nashville’s new guitar hero.” This recognition is a testament to her exceptional talent and dedication to her craft, particularly her captivating guitar playing.
Bowers honed her skills in the crucible of dive bars, drawing deep inspiration from blues legends like B.B. King and the soulful funk of Sly And The Family Stone. Her career trajectory shifted dramatically when videos showcasing her guitar prowess went viral on social media during the pandemic. This digital exposure catapulted her into the limelight, transforming her into one of the most sought-after and celebrated young guitarists in the industry today. Grace Bowers has become more than just a musician; she’s an inspiration, particularly for a burgeoning generation of female guitarists worldwide, proving that passion and skill can break barriers and resonate globally.
Her recent accolades further underscore her impact. Bowers was honored with the Variety Next Gen award at their prestigious Hitmakers event in Los Angeles, a clear indicator of her rising star power. She has also graced late-night television with her debut performance on “Jimmy Kimmel Live!,” and shared her story and music on prominent platforms like “CBS Mornings” and NPR’s “All Things Considered.” Her tour schedule is equally impressive, having shared stages with The Red Clay Strays, Gary Clark Jr., The Allman Betts Family Revival, and The Roots, demonstrating her versatility and appeal across diverse musical landscapes.
Adding to her remarkable year, Grace Bowers was named Instrumentalist of the Year at the 2024 Americana Music Association Honors & Awards. She marked her eighteenth birthday with a debut performance at the legendary Grand Ole Opry, and was appointed a U.S. Global Music Ambassador by the U.S. Department of State and YouTube’s Global Music Diplomacy Initiative, showcasing her influence extending beyond music into cultural ambassadorship. Her collaborations are equally noteworthy, including performances alongside Dolly Parton on CBS and Lainey Wilson during CBS’ New Year’s Eve Live. She has also garnered attention and played with artists ranging from Tyler Childers and Susan Tedeschi to Kingfish, Slash, and Brothers Osborne, even sharing the stage with Billy Idol at the Fired Up For Summer benefit concert. Beyond her musical achievements, Bowers is committed to giving back, evidenced by the $30,000 raised at her 2nd Annual “Grace Bowers & Friends: An Evening Supporting Love, Life & Music” benefit show, with $15,000 donated to MusiCares®. Grace Bowers’ journey is a compelling narrative of talent, hard work, and rapid ascent in the guitar world, making her a prominent figure for anyone following the evolution of contemporary guitar music.
