NEED TO KNOW

Maddox Batson opens up to PEOPLE about being discovered at 13 years old — and how he remains grounded as his star rises

The country details his hopes for longevity

Batson released a holiday bundle, Home for the Holidays , in November

At just 13 years old, Maddox Batson knew he was born to be on stage.

The rising country star was discovered by his now-manager after his covers on TikTok went viral in 2023 — and it's been full steam ahead since. Now, 15-year-old Batson has opened for Lainey Wilson on tour, released his debut EP and made his Grand Ole Opry debut.

"It's always been in my DNA," Batson tells PEOPLE exclusively of his love for performing.

"I always thought I would go into music maybe at an older age. Did I ever think I'd do it at 13? Absolutely not. But,

See Full Page