Sixteen-year-old singer-songwriter Sophie Taylor is competing for the Carolina Country Music Association’s Entertainer of the Year award. 

This recognition comes after a breakout year for the young artist who performs her original songs.

A production of the Carolina Country Music Association, the Carolina Country Music Awards honor talented musicians who grew up in or currently reside in North Carolina or South Carolina. The annual event is led by Executive Producer Sweet Tea, afternoon DJ for the Carolina Country Radio Network — 100.1 WFAY in Fayetteville and 103.7 WNMB in North Myrtle Beach. 

(Fans can help Sophie Taylor on her journey by visiting her Facebook page and voting for her in the Carolina Country Music Awards Entertainer of the Year category.  The direct link to the voting post is https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1B4JhKPRrX/)

“I can give them the canvas — the giant megaphones of our radio stations,” says Sweet Tea. “But our artists have to create their musical masterpieces. The CCMAs allow these musicians to be recognized for their hard work — and it’s also a way for fans to connect with the artists they love.”

Sophie joins a group of nominees that includes Garrett Huffman & Julia Golden, Michael Schott, Rob Cole, Katie Lynn, and Whiskey Revelation — but her story stands out not only for her age, but for her artistry.

Sophie earned her nomination after winning the February Carolina Artist Shootout with her original song, Back to You, which she wrote at 14-years-old and recorded at Direct Image Studios in Nashville, Tennessee, with producer Ken Royster. 

The song has since received airplay across the country, from Mississippi to Idaho, including on stations such as WBBN 95.9, WGCS 91.1, WSGE 91.7, and KTHK 105.5.

Growing up in a family of educators and farmers in northeastern North Carolina, Sophie has spent her teenage years blending heartfelt lyrics with country-pop melodies. 

Her songs — including Colder, Call Me Yours, Fight or Flight, and Better Luck Next Time — reflect the honesty and insight of someone far beyond her years.

Her love for music began early, singing her first solo in church at age five and picking up guitar by eight. Today, she continues to perform in churches, festivals, and local venues, connecting deeply with audiences through both her faith and her storytelling.

“Music has always been a part of me,” Sophie says. “I love writing, playing, and performing — whether it’s on stage in Nashville or here at home in Northampton County. I’m grateful for everyone who’s supported me along the way.”