Ole Miss alumna and rising country artist Lauren Watkins is set to return to Oxford for a sold-out show at Proud Larry’s on Nov. 16.

Her new album, The Heartbroken Record dropped in June and features collaborations with stars like Sheryl Crow on “Set My Heart On Fire,” Ashley Monroe on “Pretend You’re Coming Home,” and Carter Faith on “Cowboys on Music Row.”

The project is a mix of heartache and resilience, showcasing Watkins’ range in storytelling and sound.

Watkins, who recently wrapped up touring stadiums with Morgan Wallen on his One Night At A Time tour, said she is thrilled to be performing her first headlining show in Oxford.

“I’m so happy to come back to Oxford, especially this time of year,” she said. “I’m excited to bring my team along, a lot of whom haven’t been before. It’s my favorite place, and I’m proud to show it off any chance I get.”

Watkins attended Ole Miss from 2017 to 2021 and majored in integrated marketing communications, a field she feels has prepared her well for the music business.

“I wasn’t exactly sure what I was going to end up doing, but looking back, IMC was perfect and targeted for what I do now,” she said.

Originally from Nashville, she dabbled in the Oxford music scene while she was at Ole Miss, occasionally joining cover bands at local spots like Rooster’s. After graduating, Watkins returned to Nashville and started performing consistently, gaining attention from fans and critics alike.

Named an artist to watch by Holler, Music Mayhem, and Country Central, she also claimed Billboard’s Country Rookie of the Month title for November 2023 and was recognized by SiriusXM’s The Highway as a “Highway Find” in May.

The show at Proud Larry’s is the first time she will be headlining in Oxford.

“I’ve had fun getting to open for people in Oxford but it’s so special and feels like coming full circle getting to do a headline show there,” she said. “This is something I wanted to accomplish.”

Watkins said she is looking forward to her night in Oxford as a chance to celebrate a successful year in a place close to her heart.

After a break from touring, she will kick off 2025 with new tours, including one with Riley Green and an appearance at the Sand in My Boots Festival with Morgan Wallen.