Rachel Neal is an independent country and Americana singer-songwriter based in Southwest Wisconsin. She wrote her first songs at 24 and immediately found her voice in storytelling that cuts straight to the bone, drawing from real-life moments, quiet strength, and unfiltered emotion.
Whether she is singing about heartbreak, identity, or resilience, Neal's music invites listeners into stories that don't need dressing up. Her influences run deep through the Americana tradition — Miranda Lambert, Patty Griffin, Brandi Carlile, and Sheryl Crow — artists who built their careers on honesty and craft over polish.
Since the release of her debut single "Wildflower," Rachel has steadily built a loyal regional fanbase and accumulated thousands of global streams. She has been nominated for Female Vocalist of the Year at the Josie Music Awards in Nashville, and nominated for Female Vocalist of the Year and Song of the Year for "Am I A Cowgirl If I Cry" at the Midwest Country Music Awards.
Jason and Rachel talk about growing up in Michigan, making the move to Southwest Wisconsin, what sparked her songwriting at 24, the stories behind her debut singles, her Josie Music Awards nomination, and what the next chapter of her career looks like. One of the most honest conversations about the independent music grind CDF has recorded.