1 April 2020

The Americana Music Association UK (AMA UK) have announced that Bob Harris OBE and Mumford & Sons’ Ben Lovett will join the board. The duo will join Billy Bragg, Mary Gauthier and Ethan Johns on the board of what is an ever-growing association, with both Harris and Lovett both being long-term supporters of the genre. Speaking about the news, Lovett – who contributes on piano, keyboard, synthesiser and vocals for Mumford & Sons – said that it was an honour for him to be put onto the board and really believes in the organisation. “It’s a pleasure to be asked to join the Americana Music Association Board as one of the Artist Ambassadors,” Lovett said. “I believe in Stevie (Smith, Chief Executive) and her Board and all the good work they do to bridge community through the Americana Music Awards UK and throughout the year, with both artists and the wider industry.  I feel honoured to now be able to contribute in a small way. Adding further comment was Harris, with the iconic broadcaster – who comperes the Americana Music Association UK Awards each year – expressing his joy that he will be taking a more hands on role with the organisation. “I am so happy and proud to be joining the Ambassadors board of AMA-UK and to be a representative for the warmth and creativity of the wonderful UK Americana music community,” Harris said. 

CMA Fest 2020 has been cancelled as a direct result of the COVID-19 pandemic, with the festival pulling the plug on safety grounds. All purchased tickets will be valid for 2021, which will take place June 10-13. The four day festival, which was due to take place between June 4-7 and takes over downtown Nashville, is the biggest country music festival in the world and some of the biggest acts in the genre are frequently booked. There are a number of free stages which all feature some of country music’s best talents, while a paid ticket enables you to see the biggest names take to the stage in the Nissan Stadium at night. Speaking about the decision, the CMA released a statement which explained why they had to cancel, stressing that the health and safety of the country music community must come first. “After careful deliberation and in following the latest guidance from national, state and local authorities, we are sad to announce that CMA Fest will not take place in 2020,” the CMA said in a statement. “Whether you planned to attend CMA Fest for the first time, or you have attended many times throughout the last 48 years, we know how special this festival is for Country Music fans around the globe and that many will be disappointed by this decision. “As the world is still greatly affected by the spread of COVID-19, we cannot in good conscience risk the health and wellbeing of our fans, artists, staff and Country Music community. “We greatly appreciate your understanding and patience, as our actions are always in the best interest of our Country Music community. “In the coming weeks and months, we will continue to bring Country fans and artists together to celebrate the unique spirit and sense of unity that is at the heart of what CMA Fest stands for.”