Houston Bernard is a rising modern country artist with deep roots in the genre and a reputation as one of New England’s most dynamic performers. Born in Oklahoma and raised in Alaska, Bernard blends his rich musical heritage with a contemporary edge, delivering high-energy shows and heartfelt storytelling that connect with fans across the country.
Houston’s background is steeped in country tradition. His father, Donny Bernard, and uncle, Johnny Bernard, toured throughout the Oklahoma, Texas, and Nashville circuits in the 1970s, backing iconic artists such as Tanya Tucker, Wanda Jackson, and Sleepy LaBeef. His uncle co-wrote “Muddy Mississippi,” which appeared on Reba McEntire’s Reba Nell McEntire album. Further up the family line, Houston’s great-great-grandfather was infamous outlaw George “Bitter Creek” Newcomb of the Dalton Gang—the inspiration behind the Eagles’ 1973 song “Bitter Creek.” Music, storytelling, and rebellion truly run in the bloodline.
Despite a childhood spent far from the music industry in the small town of Wasilla, Alaska, Houston began performing at age 12, singing in malls and talent shows. After serving nine years in the U.S. Army as a Specialist Master Fitness Trainer and Water Purification & Petroleum Specialist, he returned to music full-time and has continued to build a powerful independent career rooted in grit, authenticity, and emotion.
Bernard has released a steady stream of singles, EPs, and albums since 2013, including his self-titled debut EP, Knockin’ Boots (2015), Lucky Man (2018), and Freedom (2020). His songs “All We Are Is Memories,” “People We Are,” and “American Dream” earned hundreds of thousands of streams and features on CMT.com, Country Rebel, The Country Network, and The Heartland Network. He has shared stages with Luke Bryan, Old Dominion, Granger Smith, Michael Ray, Montgomery Gentry, Marshall Tucker Band, and Clint Black, becoming known for shows that are both electric and emotionally grounded.
In 2024, Houston’s momentum translated into major recognition: he was named Country Act of the Year at the New England Music Awards and also won Country Act of the Year at the Josie Music Awards, the largest independent music awards show in the world. These honors solidified his reputation as a leading independent country artist with national potential.
Houston’s music draws on influences like Dwight Yoakam, Bruce Springsteen, John Mellencamp, Bryan Adams, Brothers Osborne, Queen, and Dolly Parton—artists whose emotional honesty and sonic range echo throughout his work. His forthcoming single, “Hangover,” produced by Nashville hitmaker Bill McDermott, blends 90s-country swagger with southern rock energy, showcasing his modern sound and unmistakable vocals.
“I like telling stories that matter—songs that reflect real experiences, real emotions,” Houston says. “If it connects with someone out there, that’s what makes this whole thing worth it.”
Media outlets have praised Houston for his “powerhouse vocals,” “authentic songwriting,” and “unmatched live energy,” highlighting him as one of New England’s standout country acts.
As Houston Bernard continues touring nationwide and releasing new music, he remains driven by the same mission that sparked his journey: to uplift, connect, and bring people together through honest, heartfelt country music.