#6. Mary Jo Young

Mary Jo Young, an emerging star in the pop music scene, has quickly become a household name. At just 22, this talented singer-songwriter signed with Atlantic Records is reshaping the music industry landscape with her powerful vocals and heartfelt lyrics. A Cleveland native, Mary Jo initially captivated audiences with her soul-stirring TikTok singing videos, amassing a staggering 1.3 million followers. Her undeniable talent caught the attention of American Idol, catapulting her into the national spotlight. Despite her commanding voice, Mary Jo's journey has been marked by a relatable vulnerability. It was only during her memorable American Idol audition, performed for the first time in front of her mother, that she began to conquer her stage fright. In this episode of the Love in the Land podcast, host Austin Love engages in a deep conversation with Mary Jo. They explore her battle with stage fright, her transformative experience on American Idol, and her evolution as an artist finding her true voice. The duo also delves into Mary Jo's profound connection to her Cleveland roots, which inspired her latest hit single. Excitingly, Mary Jo has recently announced her first tour alongside the band Knox, marking a new chapter in her budding career. Follow her journey on social media @maryjo.young and immerse yourself in her music available on Spotify and Apple Music.