Noeline Hofmann credits country legend Wynonna Judd as being her guiding “north star” and “fairy godmother” who has been kind and encouraging throughout her rapid rise in the music industry, including during their memorable joint performance at CMA Fest 2025. Hofman was just nominated for Emerging Act of the Year at the 2025 Americana Honors & Awards, and within that same week the rising Canadian country singer made her debut performances at both the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium. “I’m feeling caught in the whirlwind, but in the best way,” she reflects. “It’s just so surreal, and talk about a heck of a week in Nashville.” Hofmann, known for her debut album and lead single, Purple Gas, has made a series of high-profile live appearances at Stagecoach, Railbird, and Laurel Cove Music Festival, and was recently named the winner of the 2025 SiriusXM Top of the Country competition, in partnership with the Canadian Country Music Association. (People)