By Amy Lewis Singer-songwriter Rylee Austin, who grew up in Luverne, made waves at the 10th annual Josie Music Awards in Nashville, taking home two honors for her work as an independent country music artist. The awards celebrate the contributions of independent musicians, working outside the mainstream music industry.

“It was held at the Grand Ole Opry, and it’s kind of like the Grammys for independent artists,” said Austin, who was awarded both Country Female Vocalist of the Year and Country Song of the Year for her single, My Side.

Austin, who began singing and performing at age eight, has long considered music her true calling, though she took detours along the way. 

“I’ve quit and done other things like law enforcement or another job but I always came back to music,” Austin said. “So about three years ago, I made it my full-time career.”

This year was Austin’s first time submitting her work for the Josie Music Awards, and the wins came as a shock, she explained. 

“I didn’t really think anything was going to come of it, but to my surprise, I got two of the three things that I submitted for,” she said. “I’m still kind of in shock. When they called out the winner for Best Country Song, I looked at the girl next to me and said, ‘Wait, what did they say?’ She asked if that was me, and I was like, ‘I think so.’ It still doesn’t quite feel real.”

The Georgiana Opry House, a notable venue in Austin’s home turf of Butler County, played a special role in her journey. Tracy Eason, owner of the Georgiana Opry House, has followed Austin’s career from its inception. 

“We are so proud of her,” Eason said. “Rylee chose the Georgiana Opry House to launch her album. She is a very talented singer/songwriter and we can’t wait to see what’s next for her.”