For Ollie Gabriel, this year’s CMA Fest in Nashville marked a milestone. Taking the Spotlight Stage for the first time, the Louisiana-born artist called the experience “an incredible event” and said it was an “honor” to meet so many smiling faces. For Gabriel, who has crossed genres throughout his career, the moment was more than just a performance—it was a homecoming of sorts.

Though country music may be his newest chapter, Gabriel’s musical journey has been anything but one-dimensional. He first made waves on the R&B charts, later found unexpected success with an EDM hit in Australia, and broke through with his soul-pop anthem “Running Man,” a track that showcased his powerful voice and songwriting chops. That versatility, he says, has always been his strength. “I think I’m very fortunate that I can do a lot of different kinds of music really well… sometimes it shows up in different genres but I’m really excited to be in country music now,” Gabriel explained.

That excitement stems from something deeply personal. Raised in Louisiana, Gabriel has long felt connected to the country lifestyle. “Even though I’ve never been a country music artist until now, I’ve always been country, ’cause it’s in my blood, it’s how I grew up,” he said. For him, country isn’t just a style of music, it’s an extension of who he is.

But if there’s one constant in Gabriel’s career, it’s the belief that music transcends boundaries. “I want to reach people with music and to reach more success with music… to me, music really is the universal language,” he shared. That philosophy has guided his collaborations across genres and now drives his work in Nashville’s vibrant country scene.

Gabriel’s latest single, “Some Girls,” reflects that ethos. Co-written with Mario Marchetti and Rob Kirsten—who also performs in his band—the track blends heartfelt storytelling with the polished production that has become Gabriel’s signature. He thrives on collaboration and has a wish list that includes stars like Kelsea Ballerini, Willie Nelson, and Hardy.