August 2024 - STAGING Maverick

Joakim Richardson honoured with CMA International Country Broadcaster Award

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

The Country Music Association (CMA), has announced another recipient of its prestigious 2024 CMA International Awards. On Wednesday, 28 August, Christer Modig, CEO of Viaplay Radio, along with Country artists Larry Fleet and Lauren Watkins, presented Joakim Richardson, Station Manager of Go Country Sweden, with the 2024 CMA International Country Broadcaster Award. The presentation took place at the CMA Reception prior to Morgan Wallen’s headlining concert at Strawberry Arena in Stockholm, Sweden. This accolade recognises exceptional achievements by a radio broadcaster or syndicated radio reporter outside the United States who has made significant contributions to the growth of Country Music in their respective country. Richardson has been instrumental in creating new opportunities for both international and domestic Country artists in Sweden. His recent initiatives, ‘Go Country Live’ and ‘Welcome to Sweden’, have boosted engagement opportunities for U.S. Country artists, offering promotional support, showcase events, and meet-and-greets for fans and industry professionals alike. As a key member of the CMA Nordic Task Force, a CMA Professional Member, and the first Swedish broadcaster to receive this award, Richardson continues to pave the way for Country Music in Sweden. The CMA will continue to present the remaining 2024 CMA International Awards throughout the year, recognising outstanding contributions to the Country Music industry worldwide. To read more exclusive articles and latest news, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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Podge Lane takes sonic leaps with new album ‘Multiple Dead Ends’

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Irish alt-country artist Podge Lane is back with his third full-length album, ‘Multiple Dead Ends’, released today. Known for carving out a unique niche in the alt-country scene with his brash and unapologetic sound, Lane’s latest project pushes boundaries, blending electric guitar riffs and chaotic soundscapes that question life’s big moments. After making waves with his 2023 album, ‘Common Country Misconceptions’, Lane returns with ‘Multiple Dead Ends’, a 12-track exploration of self-doubt, anxiety, and the fear of ageing. The album asks, “What have I done with the time I’ve got?” and offers no easy answers. In the past year alone, Lane has kept busy, releasing winter-themed singles ‘Snow’ and ‘Hailstone’ and embarking on a non-stop tour across Ireland and the UK. His performances included headlining iconic venues like Camden’s Green Note and sharing the stage with acclaimed acts such as The Wedding Present, The Riptide Movement, Vieux Farka Touré, and Rachael Sage. Reflecting on his latest album, Lane says, “I always planned to tell my first two albums’ stories the way I did—my past and my present—and to end the trilogy with this one, my future. As someone who used to go into my parents’ room at five or six because I was afraid of turning 40, the future can be scary. So, I tried to detail my feelings of this fear of ageing through a winding narrative that never really ends, because I guess there is no end.” Throughout ‘Multiple Dead Ends’, Lane confronts his long-standing anxieties with a bold mix of sounds. Tracks like ‘My House’ and ‘Left Foot Right Foot (Panic)’ channel a playful, Harry Nilsson-esque approach, while ‘Phobophobia’ offers panicked harmonica solos and blues slides reminiscent of The White Stripes. Lane also shows a softer side in ‘The Little Things’, a vulnerable piano ballad that lays his emotions bare. Lane has been praised for blending everyday life-induced anxiety with light-hearted, witty lyrics, drawing comparisons to musical greats like John Prine and Jimmy Buffett. His latest album promises to challenge his usual deflective humour, revealing a raw and unfiltered look at his inner world. Seeking answers to the questions that never end, Podge Lane’s ‘Multiple Dead Ends’ breaks his sound apart and boldly asks, “What is going to happen now?” The album will be launched on 28th August at Little Whelan’s, Dublin, with more dates to be announced soon. To read more exclusive articles and latest news, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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UK singer-songwriter Sadie Jemmett re-releases ‘The Blacksmith’s Girl’

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Acclaimed UK singer-songwriter Sadie Jemmett has announced the re-release of her debut album, ‘The Blacksmith’s Girl’, now available for streaming on Spotify and all major digital platforms. Originally released in 2012 on Judy Collins’s Wildflower Records, ‘The Blacksmith’s Girl’ received critical acclaim for its heartfelt lyrics and melodic storytelling. The album delves into Sadie’s personal experiences, capturing themes of love, loss, resilience, and hope. “I’ve poured my heart and soul into this album,” says Sadie Jemmett. “Each song tells a story, and I hope listeners can find something that speaks to them, whether it’s a melody, a lyric, or the emotions behind the music.” The title track, ‘The Blacksmith’s Girl’, sets the tone for the album with its evocative storytelling, showcasing Jemmett’s ability to blend emotionally raw lyrics with poignant melodies. Another standout track, ‘Up on The Heath’, is a love song that invites a special someone to Hampstead Heath, asking them to “stand still” and “watch the city crawl beneath our feet… try to beat these blues away.” The album also features contributions from renowned musician and producer Ed Harcourt and Gorillaz drummer Cass Browne. The album was recorded and mixed in Los Angeles by the late David Bianco, a Grammy Award-winning producer. With universal themes that resonate globally, Jemmett’s music has already garnered a dedicated following, and this re-release is set to cement her place in the contemporary music scene. Since relocating to France in 2021, Sadie Jemmett has expanded her artistic endeavours, composing music for film and theatre and becoming the artistic director of the iconic Anglo-French company Footsbarn Theatre. With several projects in development, she continues to write songs, perform live, and work on new music for release in 2025. Fans old and new can now rediscover ‘The Blacksmith’s Girl’ and experience Sadie Jemmett’s enduring musical journey. To read more exclusive articles and latest news, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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One To Watch: Ryan and Rory

Leave a Comment / Exclusives / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

There are duos that capture the heart and spirit of country music, and then there are those that redefine it. Ryan and Rory, the dynamic pair recently honoured as 2024 Highway Finds, fall into the latter category. Their debut EP, self-titled ‘Ryan and Rory,’ has been met with widespread acclaim, establishing them as a formidable force in the industry. The decision to name their debut EP after themselves was born out of practicality and a desire for simplicity. “I’ve always had to explain my name to everyone,” Rory explains. “Between Ryan and I, it just seemed easier to go with Ryan and Rory. It’s straightforward and memorable.” Ryan adds with a laugh, “Have you seen my last name? It’s Follesé. If you can spell it, you should go on a game show. We liked the way Ryan and Rory sounds.” When asked about their favourite tracks off the EP, the duo’s responses highlight their individual tastes and experiences. Ryan gravitates towards ‘Drunk and Lonely,’ enthusing, “There’s a really cool tempo change towards the end of the song, and I can’t wait to play it live.” Rory, on the other hand, connects deeply with ‘This Town.’ He describes it as the modern-day ‘Wide Open Spaces’ with a ‘Somebody Like You’ vibe, resonating with his recent move to Nashville to chase his musical dreams. Their journey to this point is as serendipitous as it is inspiring. Initially meeting at a LoCash concert years ago, they were later reconnected by a mutual friend who saw their potential as a duo. “It went unbelievably well,” Ryan recalls. “We write great together, we sound great together.” Rory is equally complimentary of Ryan’s songwriting prowess, a skill that runs in his family. “Ryan’s parents are monster songwriters. It’s in his genes,” Rory notes. The chemistry between them extends beyond their music. Ryan’s tattoos, a blend of personal passions and spontaneous choices, reflect his free-spirited nature. “My most recent one is a cowboy hat and boots. I’m a huge Dallas Cowboys fan,” he says. Rory, though not yet inked, muses about possibly getting a tattoo at an international festival, starting a new tradition. Their diverse interests and backgrounds complement their music-making process. Ryan, with a backlog of songs ready for Rory’s musical touch, finds their collaboration invigorating. “Since we’ve met, there’s been a lot of growth. It’s become more collaborative, and that makes it so much more fun,” he shares. Rory echoes this sentiment, praising the evolved chemistry and how it enhances their creative output. Read the full feature in our free digital magazine here: https://bit.ly/3WUe56j Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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Warren Zeiders: Mystery and multitudes

Leave a Comment / Exclusives / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Warren Zeiders is swiftly becoming a household name in the country music scene, captivating audiences with his authentic sound and deeply personal lyrics. Hailing from Pennsylvania, Zeiders has carved a niche for himself with his unique blend of country rock and heartfelt storytelling. His journey began during the pandemic, when he started sharing his music on social media platforms, quickly amassing a dedicated fan base drawn to his raw and unfiltered approach to music. His breakout single, ‘Ride the Lightning’, showcased his powerful vocals and songwriting prowess, setting the stage for a series of successful releases. Zeiders’ ability to convey universal themes through his personal experiences has resonated deeply with listeners, earning him critical acclaim and a growing following. With each song, he brings a sense of authenticity and relatability that is rare in today’s music industry, making his work stand out. Recently, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Warren Zeiders for an insightful interview. We delved into the inspiration behind his latest works, including his hit single ‘Addictions’ and his upcoming project ‘Relapse’. Our conversation revealed not only the depth of his musical talents but also his unwavering dedication to his craft. Through our discussion, it became clear that Zeiders is not just a rising star but a true artist committed to sharing his journey with the world. His passion for music, combined with his genuine connection to his fans, promises an exciting future for this talented musician. The Drive Behind ‘Addictions’ Warren Zeiders has been making waves in the country music scene with his raw, authentic sound and deeply personal lyrics. One of his latest singles, ‘Addictions’, exemplifies his approach to music. “I wrote ‘Addictions’ a while ago,” he recalls, “I kind of wrote it from a broad perspective where we all have things in our life that we might not be… how do I put this? We all have our own vices.” For Zeiders, music is both a passion and a compulsion. “My addiction is what I do for a living,” he admits. “At that stage of my life, I wasn’t able to completely give myself to a relationship because I was so focused on chasing my dream.” This intense dedication is palpable in the song, which has resonated with many listeners who recognise the struggle of balancing personal life with career ambitions. Zeiders reflects on the song’s creation, noting the fast-paced lifestyle that often leads to songs being shelved temporarily. “When we wrote it, maybe it was a year ago… we write so much music that sometimes songs can get lost in translation and sometimes they get shelved,” he explains. Despite this, ‘Addictions’ was a song he never forgot about. “I try to think about where I’m at at this stage of life, does this make sense to put out? Is it cohesive with what the rest of my messaging is in the music I’m putting out right now?” Zeiders’ ability to translate his personal experiences into universal themes is a testament to his songwriting prowess. He continues, “I chose this lifestyle because it’s what I believed I was meant to do.” His conviction and passion for music shine through every line, making ‘Addictions’ a powerful anthem for anyone driven by their aspirations. Read the full feature in our free digital magazine here: https://bit.ly/3WUe56j Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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Jelly Roll announces ‘Beautifully Broken’ album and major U.S. tour

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Award-winning and multi-genre artist Jelly Roll has announced the release of his highly anticipated new album, ‘Beautifully Broken,’ set to drop on 11th October. This album is a follow-up to his record-breaking country debut, ‘Whitsitt Chapel,’ and is named after his upcoming headlining tour, which kicks off on 27th August. ‘Beautifully Broken’ will feature the reigning CMA New Artist of the Year’s current Top 15 hit ‘I Am Not Okay,’ alongside fan-favourite track ‘Liar’ and the newly released ‘Get By,’ which has been selected as the anthem for ESPN’s 2024 College Football Season. The track is already available for streaming. Fans can now pre-order the album, with all net profits from U.S. web store pre-orders going to support organisations aiding individuals facing mental health and addiction challenges as part of the album launch. Jelly Roll first teased details of the album earlier this summer on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, and in a recent interview with New York Times Magazine, he shared further insights into the album, his connection with fans, and his ongoing quest for purpose. His single ‘I Am Not Okay’ made its debut on The Howard Stern Show in June, and has since become a Hot 100 Crossover hit, with Billboard praising the track for shedding light on a critical national issue. The ‘Beautifully Broken’ tour will commence in Salt Lake City on 27th August and will see Jelly Roll perform across major U.S. cities, including Los Angeles’ Crypto.com Arena and New York City’s Madison Square Garden. Jelly Roll ‘Beautifully Broken’ 2024 Tour Dates: 27/8/2024 – Salt Lake City, UT – Delta Center # 28/8/2024 – Nampa, ID – Ford Idaho Center # 30/8/2024 – Spokane, WA – Spokane Arena # 31/8/2024 – Seattle, WA – Climate Pledge Arena # 1/9/2024 – Portland, OR – Moda Center # 3/9/2024 – San Jose, CA – SAP Center # 4/9/2024 – Sacramento, CA – Golden 1 Center # 6/9/2024 – Los Angeles, CA – Crypto.com Arena # 7/9/2024 – Anaheim, CA – Honda Center # 9/9/2024 – El Paso, TX – Don Haskins Center # 11/9/2024 – San Antonio, TX – Frost Bank Center # 13/9/2024 – Lafayette, LA – CAJUNDOME # 14/9/2024 – New Orleans, LA – Smoothie King Center # 17/9/2024 – Orlando, FL – Kia Center # 19/9/2024 – Charleston, SC – North Charleston Coliseum # 20/9/2024 – Raleigh, NC – PNC Arena # 21/9/2024 – Washington, DC – Capital One Arena # 24/9/2024 – Albany, NY – MVP Arena # 26/9/2024 – Boston, MA – TD Garden # 27/9/2024 – New York, NY – Madison Square Garden # 28/9/2024 – Belmont Park, NY – UBS Arena # 29/9/2024 – Newark, NJ – Prudential Center # 1/10/2024 – State College, PA – Bryce Jordan Center # 2/10/2024 – Philadelphia, PA – Wells Fargo Center # 5/10/2024 – Pittsburgh, PA – PPG Paints Arena # 6/10/2024 – Buffalo, NY – KeyBank Center # 9/10/2024 – Columbus, OH – Nationwide Arena # 11/10/2024 – Chicago, IL – United Center # 12/10/2024 – Louisville, KY – KFC Yum! Center # 15/10/2024 – Wichita, KS – INTRUST Bank Arena # 16/10/2024 – Springfield, MO – Great Southern Bank Arena # 18/10/2024 – Tulsa, OK – BOK Center # 20/10/2024 – Bossier City, LA – Brookshire Grocery Arena # 22/10/2024 – Little Rock, AR – Simmons Bank Arena # 23/10/2024 – St Louis, MO – Enterprise Center # 25/10/2024 – Knoxville, TN – Thompson-Boling Arena at Food City Center # 26/10/2024 – Atlanta, GA – State Farm Arena # 27/10/2024 – Charlotte, NC – Spectrum Center # 30/10/2024 – Charlottesville, VA – John Paul Jones Arena * 1/11/2024 – Charleston, WV – Charleston Coliseum * 4/11/2024 – Cincinnati, OH – Heritage Bank Center * 6/11/2024 – Detroit, MI – Little Caesars Arena * 7/11/2024 – Indianapolis, IN – Gainbridge Fieldhouse * 8/11/2024 – Lexington, KY – Rupp Arena * 10/11/2024 – Evansville, IN – Ford Center * 12/11/2024 – Omaha, NE – CHI Health Center Arena * 13/11/2024 – Kansas City, MO – T-Mobile Center * 14/11/2024 – Oklahoma City, OK – Paycom Center * 17/11/2024 – Houston, TX – Toyota Center * 18/11/2024 – Corpus Christi, TX – American Bank Center * 19/11/2024 – Austin, TX – Moody Center * 21/11/2024 – Birmingham, AL – Legacy Arena at the BJCC 22/11/2024 – Columbia, SC – Colonial Life Arena * 23/11/2024 – Jacksonville, FL – Vystar Veterans Memorial Arena #Warren Zeiders & Alexandra Kay *ERNEST, Shaboozey & Allie Colleen To read more exclusive articles and latest news, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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Lainey Wilson’s ‘Whirlwind’ album launches

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Lainey Wilson, the Grammy Award-winning, multi-platinum artist, has released her highly anticipated new album, ‘Whirlwind’. ‘Whirlwind’ has been produced by the Grammy Award-winning Jay Joyce, known for his work with Miranda Lambert and Eric Church. The album’s 14 tracks showcase Wilson’s signature blend of storytelling and country flair. The current single, ‘Hang Tight Honey’, has already enjoyed significant success, celebrating three consecutive weeks at number one on the UK Country Radio chart and approaching the top 10 on the US Country Airplay chart. Speaking about the album, Wilson said, “‘Whirlwind’ is kind of the Western sister of ‘Bell Bottom Country’. Since that album, I have gotten to experience so many new things and meet folks from different walks of life. Because of that, I’ve become a better songwriter, and I have more understanding. I feel like I’ve truly stepped into what it is that I’m called to be doing. Ironically, I found my path within all the craziness—and that’s the whirlwind.” To celebrate the album’s release, a series of listening parties will be held across the UK this weekend. Events are set to take place at venues including Coyote Ugly and Caliendo’s Gelato, with full details available on Wilson’s official website. ‘Whirlwind’ adds to an already remarkable year for Wilson, who was recently inducted into the Grand Ole Opry and took home Best Country Album at the 2024 Grammy Awards. Her trophy cabinet has also expanded with three awards at the 59th annual ACM Awards and five awards at the 57th annual CMA Awards, where she was named Entertainer of the Year at both events. Earlier this week, she received two accolades at the ACM Honors: the prestigious Triple Crown Award and the Milestone Award, recognising her unprecedented success in country music. Originally hailing from Baskin, Louisiana, and now based in Nashville, Wilson has been on a meteoric rise since her 2016 debut. Her previous album, ‘Bell Bottom Country’, released in 2022, received widespread acclaim, with Variety calling it “one of the more irresistible collections to come out of the genre in some time” and The Wall Street Journal noting, “Lainey Wilson’s rock-tinged country songs are taking Nashville—and beyond—by storm.” A prolific songwriter, Wilson has penned seven number one singles at country radio and written for notable artists including Post Malone, Dolly Parton, Luke Combs, and Ashley McBryde. Her versatility extends to acting, with a debut role in season five of the hit series Yellowstone. With ‘Whirlwind’, Lainey Wilson is poised to further solidify her status as one of country music’s brightest stars, captivating audiences worldwide with her unique blend of authenticity and artistry. To read more exclusive articles and latest news, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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South Carolina’s Taylor McCall releases ‘The Porch Sessions EP’

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Today, South Carolina’s rising star, Taylor McCall, has unveiled his latest project, The Porch Sessions EP, offering a stripped-back, tender, and intimate rendition of four songs from his critically acclaimed album, Mellow War. Speaking about the new release, McCall shared, “The Porch Sessions are an intimate batch of outdoor recordings done with myself and Sean McConnell. The tracks are alternate versions from my second LP, Mellow War. I wanted to break down the artificial veils of the studio and bring the listeners onto my porch.” In conjunction with the EP’s release, McCall has also launched a new video for ‘Rolling Stoned Again’, which provides a behind-the-scenes glimpse into the making of The Porch Sessions. Following a successful UK debut at the renowned Cambridge Folk Festival, McCall is gearing up for his first headlining US tour, which kicks off this weekend and runs throughout September. The Mellow War Tour will begin in Mobile, Alabama, and continue through major cities including Dallas, Denver, Nashville, and New York. A full list of tour dates is available below, with more information provided here. The Mellow War album, co-produced by McCall and Sean McConnell (known for his work with Michael Franti and Wade Bowen), is deeply personal, drawing inspiration from McCall’s late grandfather, who also graces the album cover as a young man in Vietnam. Reflecting on the album, McCall said, “Mellow War pays homage to my late grandpa. The album cover is him in Vietnam. These are songs that are sort of letters to home that I imagined he might have sent. My grandpa was a life inspiration for me; it was bigger than just music. The songs are a tribute to everything he stood for and everything he taught me.” The album features standout tracks such as the swampy ‘Tide Of Love’, the heartfelt tribute ‘Rest On Easy’, and the title track ‘Mellow War’, which McCall describes as the original piece that set the tone for the album. These songs showcase McCall’s unique blend of blues-infused Americana, with the video for ‘Mellow War’, directed by McCall himself, available to watch here. McCall first made waves in the UK when he supported Robert Plant presents Saving Grace in 2023. He was subsequently invited back as a special guest for a second run of dates in March this year, which included a performance at London’s Palladium. Since discovering his voice in his late teens, McCall has built a loyal fanbase. At just 17, his debut EPs, featuring tracks like ‘Jericho Rose’, ‘Quartermaster’, ‘Waccamaw Drive’, and ‘The Devil Wants To Dance Again’, garnered 26 million plays, solidifying his reputation as a talented musician and songwriter. As an avid outdoorsman and fisherman, McCall’s music reflects his deep connection to nature and his Southern roots. The Porch Sessions EP adds another poignant chapter to his musical journey, highlighting the depth of character and soulful wisdom that belie his years. With his powerful voice and distinctive sound, Taylor McCall continues to captivate audiences, proving that he is a force to be reckoned with in the Americana scene. To read more exclusive articles and latest news, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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Beyond Nashville: Alan Fletcher takes to the stage

Leave a Comment / Exclusives / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Alan Fletcher, an Australian actor renowned for his role as Dr. Karl Kennedy in the long-running TV soap Neighbours, has successfully ventured into country music, showcasing his versatility. His latest single, ‘For The Love of Lager’, highlights his comedic talent and affinity for lager, a beloved drink among Australians and Brits. As Fletcher gears up for his tour across the UK and Ireland, fans can look forward to a blend of humor and music. Born and raised in Australia, Fletcher’s career has spanned several decades, with his role in Neighbours making him a household name. Recently, his foray into music has unveiled another layer of his artistic abilities. His debut solo album, ‘The Point’, released last year, garnered critical acclaim, establishing him as a serious contender in the music industry. Fletcher’s music, rooted in Americana and country traditions, resonates with fans of the genre. Country music in Australia blends American influences with the unique experiences and landscapes of the Australian outback. Fletcher’s music draws from this rich tradition, bridging his Australian roots with the broader country music scene. His songs often feature humor, heartfelt storytelling, and a genuine connection with his audience, hallmarks of great country music. ‘For The Love of Lager’ is a playful ode to a beverage cherished by both Australians and Brits. The song’s catchy tune and witty lyrics highlight Fletcher’s knack for engaging and entertaining music. This single is set to be a standout in his upcoming tour, which begins on July 11 at The Bedford in London and concludes at the Kendal Calling festival on August 3. Fletcher will share the stage with notable acts like Noel Gallagher’s High Flying Birds, Paolo Nutini, and Craig Charles, promising a memorable festival performance. Riley Catherall will support Fletcher on his tour, adding another layer of talent to the lineup. Fans attending the 19-date tour can expect a mix of Fletcher’s original songs, select country covers, and the crowd-pleasing ‘For The Love of Lager’. The tour offers an intimate setting where fans can enjoy music, laughter, and camaraderie, reflecting the communal spirit of country music and pub culture. Fletcher’s crossover from acting to music isn’t entirely surprising. His portrayal of Dr. Karl Kennedy often included musical performances, hinting at his passion for music. This transition has allowed him to connect with fans on a different level, bringing his storytelling abilities to his songwriting and performances. Fletcher shared his enthusiasm for his new single and the upcoming tour: “My 2023 tour of the UK was a sensational success. Fans of Neighbours have become fans of my music as well, and the 2024 tour is selling heavily in some parts of the country and selling out in others. I premiered ‘For The Love of Lager’ last year and it killed with audiences. Can’t wait to get it out in the world.” Read the full feature in our free digital magazine here: https://bit.ly/3WUe56j Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Beyond Nashville: Alan Fletcher takes to the stage Read More »

Remember Monday get into their groove

Leave a Comment / Exclusives / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

In the world of country music, the rise of Remember Monday, a captivating trio from the UK, has been nothing short of phenomenal. Their seamless harmonies, infectious energy and genuine camaraderie have carved a unique space for them in the music industry – and that space is for everyone. As they gear up for their November tour, the band, consisting of Holly-Anne Hull, Lauren Byrne and Charlotte Steele, reflect on their journey, inspirations and the evolution of their music. From Sixth Form to stardom Remember Monday’s origin story is reminiscent of a modern-day fairy tale. “We were literally the real-life Glee,” Holly recounts. “We kind of started singing together for a bit of fun and then it got really serious.” The trio met at sixth form (for those readers who are not UK-based, that is full-time education between the ages of 16 and 18), where they spent countless hours in the music room, often skipping classes to perfect their harmonies and dream big. Their teachers, far from being disapproving, were supportive, encouraging them to pursue their musical passions. This bond, formed over shared love for rearranging songs and harmonising, laid the foundation for their future success. “We started doing original music a few years into it,” Lauren explains, “and in September last year, we decided to quit our jobs and go full-time with the band.” The band’s rise to prominence has been significantly boosted by social media, particularly TikTok. “We posted [‘Hand in My Pocket’] on an absolute whim on TikTok and it went so viral,” Lauren shares. The video amassed millions of views and led to an invitation to perform on the Jennifer Hudson Show. ‘Fat Bottom Girls’ followed a similar trajectory, further solidifying their online presence and drawing in a diverse audience. One of their most touching covers, ‘Brown Eyed Girl’, holds a special place in their hearts. “My brother asked us to sing it at his wedding,” Holly reveals. “We recorded it because we knew we’d be too emotional to sing it live. It was supposed to be a private gift, but it ended up being for the world.” This personal connection strengthens the connection they have with their fans, people share their stories with the track all over the band’s social media. It’s a moment of coming together, establishing community and a space for people to share their lives. Country music is experiencing a surge in popularity in the UK and Remember Monday is riding the wave. “At first we were a little bit like, ‘oh no, are people going to try to swoop in and take the genre?’” Lauren admits. “But actually, it is so exciting. Artists that we love are now showing an interest in country music.” This broadening appeal of country music is a positive development for the trio. “It kind of shows that there is such a fan base here in the UK,” Holly observes. The genre, traditionally seen as niche across the pond, is now reaching a wider audience, much to the band’s delight. Performing at shows at C2C, Highways Festival and even their upcoming tour across the UK, give Remember Monday an opportunity to present their case to the people, the chance to show their nation that country music is here to stay. Read the full feature in our free digital magazine here: https://bit.ly/3WUe56j Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Remember Monday get into their groove Read More »