Drake Milligan Discovers Passionate Country Music Fans in Europe and Australia
Drake Milligan, a former America’s Got Talent finalist and rising country music star, is no stranger to life on the road, comparisons to legends like Elvis Presley and Roy Orbison, and navigating the challenges of a competitive music industry. However, one thing that has caught him off guard is the surprising number of country music fans he’s found far beyond the United States—in Europe and Australia.
The 26-year-old singer, who recently premiered the music video for his song “I Got a Problem” exclusively with PEOPLE, shared his amazement at discovering thriving country music communities during his overseas tours.
“You’ll find country music fans pretty much everywhere in Europe,” Milligan revealed. “I recently headlined a massive country music festival in Norway, and it was packed with thousands of people. It was me, Joe Nichols, and a lineup of Norwegian artists performing real country music, even in Norwegian. It was amazing to see how much they truly love authentic country music.”
The Texas native, who rose to fame portraying Elvis Presley in the CMT series Sun Records, later gained wider recognition after finishing third on America’s Got Talent in 2022 with his hit song “Sounds Like Something I’d Do.” Since then, Milligan’s career has taken off. His song “Honky Tonkin’ About” reached the top of the Canadian Country Music charts, and he even made a special appearance on AGT’s Results Night in 2023.
Reflecting on his whirlwind year, Milligan admitted he’s ready for a well-deserved break after an intense year-long tour. “It’s been a crazy year,” he said. “We’ve been everywhere, playing what feels like a million shows. I’m finally getting past being tired.”
Among the highlights of his international journey, Milligan pointed to Europe as a surprising hub of passionate country music enthusiasts. “The reception in Norway really blew me away,” he said. “Who would’ve thought there’d be such a huge audience for country music there? They know how to appreciate the real deal.”
Milligan also found a devoted fanbase on the other side of the globe—in Australia. “I played a festival near Brisbane in Queensland, and I couldn’t believe what I was seeing,” he said. “The crowd was full of cowboys and cowgirls—it felt like I was back in Texas. The way they live, love, and celebrate country music is so genuine. They know how to have a good time, that’s for sure!”
The singer’s connection with his fans, both at home and abroad, is evident in his performances. His heartfelt lyrics and engaging stage presence have won him admirers around the world, further solidifying his reputation as a rising star in country music.
Milligan’s ability to connect with diverse audiences speaks to the universal appeal of country music. Despite its deep roots in American culture, the genre has resonated with fans worldwide, creating communities of “true blue country fans” in unexpected places.
For Milligan, these experiences have been both humbling and inspiring. “It’s incredible to see how far country music reaches,” he said. “Whether it’s Norway, Australia, or anywhere else, the love for country music is real. It’s something that brings people together.”
As Milligan wraps up his tour, he’s taking some time to recharge and reflect on his journey. “This year has been a dream come true,” he shared. “Getting to share my music with people all over the world is something I’ll never take for granted.”
With his authentic sound and growing international following, Milligan is proving that country music knows no borders. Whether performing at festivals in Texas, Norway, or Australia, he’s capturing hearts and leaving an indelible mark on audiences everywhere.
Looking ahead, Milligan remains focused on creating music that resonates with fans both old and new. His journey may have taken him around the globe, but his passion for country music—and his roots in Texas—continue to shine through in everything he does.
