Emerging from the heartland of Canada in 2017, The Prairie States bring a signature rock flair to their country sound. This Edmonton-based band, composed of Mat Cardinal, Jeff Dick, Mike Nash and Jay Der, is known for its authentic storytelling and high-energy live shows.

With twelve Country Music Alberta Awards, including Rising Star in 2018 and Group/Duo of the Year in 22024, and a 2024 CCMA nomination for Video of the Year2, The Prairie States are undeniably moving in the right direction.

Their debut album, Lost In The Right Direction, independently released in 2018, was nominated for CMAB Album Of The Year. Since then, singles like "Waiting On You" have climbed the Canadian country radio charts. "Rebel Phase" has garnered over a million global streams. Their latest single, "Not So Much No More," explores themes of love, loss, and second chances.

Since signing with Willing Records/Universal Music in 2022, The Prairie States have expanded their reach, sharing stages with acts like Keith Urban, Brothers Osborne, and Lainey Wilson. With more shows and new music on the horizon, The Prairie States continue to captivate audiences with their energetic live performances.

Mat Cardinal, a member of the Bigstone Cree Nation, is the lead singer/songwriter of the acclaimed country band, The Prairie States. Hailing from Wabasca, Alberta, Mat's journey has been one of resilience and determination. Diagnosed with kidney disease at the age of 10, he underwent a life-saving kidney transplant, inspiring him to pursue his dreams and share his story of strength with others. Mat wanted to give back and the band just put on the first Second Chance Songs Benefit for the University Hospital Foundation.

Together with bandmates Jeff Dick, Mike Nash and Jay Der, The Prairie States was formed in 2017 with a vision to infuse classic country sounds with a fresh, contemporary twist. Their meteoric rise in the country music scene has been marked by numerous accolades, including twelve Country Music Alberta Awards, including 2018 Rising Star and 2024 Group/Duo Of The Year, along with a nomination for the 2024 CCMA Video of the Year.

The band's debut album, "Lost In The Right Direction," released independently in June 2018, garnered critical acclaim and earned a nomination for the CMAB Album Of The Year. Their subsequent radio singles, including hits like "Rebel Phase" and "Waiting On You," have consistently charted in the top 100 on Canadian country radio, with "Rebel Phase" amassing over 1.8 million global streams.

With a signature blend of infectious melodies and heartfelt lyrics, The Prairie States have captivated audiences nationwide. Their latest release, "Not So Much No More," produced by Erik Dylan and Bobby Wills, showcases their knack for crafting anthemic, feel-good country tunes.

In 2022, The Prairie States inked a recording contract with Willing Records/Universal Music, propelling them to new heights. In 2025 they signed a deal with the Paquin Entertainment Group for agency representation. They've shared stages with industry heavyweights like Aaron Goodvin, Brothers Osborne and Lainey Wilson electrifying audiences with their dynamic live performances.

Continuing to tour extensively, including tours with Jess Moskaluke and The Washboard Union, The Prairie States are poised for even greater success. With fresh recordings in the works and a busy schedule ahead, the band's future looks brighter than ever as they continue to make their mark on the country music landscape.

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