Music in the Village

Written by Hilton during a holiday songwriting retreat at her parents’ farm in Norfolk County, Ontario, she later brought the track south to Muscle Shoals, Alabama, where it was recorded live off the floor. The session was engineered by Craig Alvin, known for his work on Golden Hour by Kacey Musgraves. “I Want a Cowboy” blends Hilton’s classic country influences with a modern edge and offers an early glimpse into the music she is preparing for her upcoming album.

Last year, Hilton’s breakout single “Dive Bar” earned her national attention, including from SiriusXM Canada, Breakfast Television, Global TV’s The Morning Show, CityNews and CTV’s Etalk, who called Hilton “the hottest new talent in country music.” Since then, Hilton has delivered standout performances at Country Music Week (as part of the CCMA Awards weekend) and Folk Music Week (as part of the Folk Music Canada Awards Weekend). She was also named a finalist for the 2025 Boots and Hearts Emerging Artist Showcase and made her debut at Cavendish Beach Music Festival. Just last month, she headlined The Rivoli in Toronto for the first time and sold out the venue. In 2026, she will be on the main stage at Ottawa Bluesfest as direct support for Jessie Murph and Cody Johnson, and also at Misty City Music Festival supporting Jon Pardi. She was also nominated for Country Music Ontario’s Breakthrough Artist of the Year and performed at the awards in June.

Known for her soulful voice, intimate storytelling, and captivating performances, Leah recently won the Boots & Hearts Emerging Artist Showcase, further establishing her as a rising voice in Canadian country music. Her debut EP, Patchwork, showcases her warm, expressive sound.