The Prairie States

Emerging from the heartland of Canada, The Prairie States blend rock-infused country anthems with deeply personal storytelling. Since the release of their third album and first LP on Willing Records/UMC, Trouble Is, the band has achieved remarkable success, including two charting singles and their breakout hit “Waiting On You,” which reached number 24 on the charts. Their debut LP has surpassed 6 million streams since it’s January 2024 release. Led by Indigenous singer/songwriter Mat Cardinal, The Prairie States bring a fresh, authentic sound to the country music scene. Cardinal’s musical journey began in his parents' garage, inspired by family members and rock ‘n’ roll icons like The Beatles. Despite early rock influences, country music became significant in his teenage years, shaping the band's unique sound. Mats Story - The band’s formation was serendipitous. Cardinal’s move to Edmonton a decade ago introduced him to guitarist/songwriter Jeff Dick through a mutual connection. They started writing songs together and formed the band, adding Doc De Groot on lead guitar and Jay Der on drums. Initially a cover band, they solidified their lineup and original sound. Bassist Mike Nash was the last to join, bringing unique influences from his father's eclectic music taste and record collection. The Prairie States' music is characterized by its "Arena Country" style—big vocals, duelling guitars, and narrative-rich lyrics. Their creative process is collaborative, with each member contributing different elements. Cardinal starts with a guitar hook or melody, Dick with lyrical ideas, and Nash with vocal melodies, forming a dynamic songwriting team. Their new single, “Not So Much No More,” is set to be the official breakup anthem of the summer, showcasing their evolving sound and dedication to continually raising the bar. With themes like love, loss, second chances, and the relentless pursuit of dreams, The Prairie States craft songs that are both personal and universally relatable. Looking ahead, The Prairie States are excited about upcoming releases and potential collaborations. Their goal is clear: to keep making great music, playing big stages, and connecting with fans worldwide. Their live shows are a testament to their commitment to their audience, ensuring every concert is an unforgettable experience. Reflecting on their career, the band takes pride in their growth, the connections with their audience, and their ability to inspire. They hope their legacy will be one of resilience, passion, and a profound impact on the music industry and their listeners. With sights set on international tours and creating the soundtrack to their fans' lives, The Prairie States are just getting started on their remarkable journey.