Toronto Singer-Songwriter Sam Drysdale Signs with ONErpm Nashville

ONErpm has added a new Canadian artist to its roster.

The independent distribution label has announced the signing of Toronto singer-songwriter Sam Drysdale to its Nashville arm. The signing precedes the release of his sophomore album, currently set for this fall.

Raised in Guelph, Ontario, Drysdale was introduced by his parents to music by Bruce Springsteen and Pink Floyd, and later inspired by other singer-songwriters like John Mayer. Akin to his influences, the singer's emotional and storytelling-driven style blends singer-songwriter music with country, folk and Americana influences.

His acoustic ballad "Only the Strong Survive" became his breakout hit in 2024, earning over 65 million views, 10 million streams globally and a Folk Ontario Award nomination for song of the year. Last year, he earned a radio hit with "Cold Water," which charted on several Billboard Canada airplay charts including Contemporary Hit Radio/Top 40, Hot AC and AC.

Both songs were fuelled by the singer's social media-focused strategy, which helped grow his audience online and even earned him a viral moment on TikTok with millions of views. Following their success, Drysdale performed at the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame 2025 Legends Induction in Oct. 2025 and was named a Future Star by iHeartRadio Canada that same month, continuing his forward momentum.

Now, he looks to build on it, maintaining his independence while partnering with a heavily connected label in the heart of Nashville's powerhouse music business.

"Artistic independence has always felt like a bit of a high-wire act for me. Creatively, I value having full control and take pride in doing as much as I can on my own, but the most meaningful part of this journey has been the people I've met along the way," he says. "ONErpm stood out to me because they truly respect that independence and are committed not only to supporting it, but to empowering it. So much of this industry has started to lean on data, but as an artist I still understand the power of raw belief. That's where the magic is."

Ryan Cunningham, ONErpm's director of A&R, echoes his excitement heading into this new chapter.

"From his voice to his writing, Sam Drysdale stands out immediately," he says. "There's a clear vision behind what he's building, and that came through from our first meeting. We're excited to partner with Sam and bring that vision to a wider audience.

ONErpm is also home to fellow Canadian country singer Brett Kissel, as well as American rappers Goodie Mob and Yelawolf. A full-service music industry solutions provider, the company has increased approximately sixfold since 2020.

Early this year, the company hired industry Mike Easterlin to lead its Nashville office.