August 2024 - Page 2 of 4 - STAGING Maverick

Julian Taylor kicks off UK headline tour tomorrow

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Award-winning Canadian singer-songwriter Julian Taylor is set to begin his highly anticipated UK headline tour tomorrow (22 August) in Shoreham-by-Sea. The eight-date tour will see Taylor performing at two festivals and six headline venues across the country. Fans can find full details and purchase tickets on his official website. “UK friends, I am looking forward to seeing you,” Taylor shared ahead of the tour. “Every time I visit, I feel invigorated, and I’m excited to perform with my amazing band, which includes Michelle Stodart, Raevennen Husbands, and Sian Monaghan.” The tour coincides with the release of Taylor’s brand-new single, ‘Pathways’, which dropped today (21 August). The track, which features GRAMMY award-winning artist Allison Russell, serves as the title track for Taylor’s forthcoming album, Pathways, slated for release on 27 September 2024 under his label Howling Turtle, Inc. Co-written by Taylor alongside Robert Priest and Rosanne Baker, ‘Pathways’ aims to offer listeners a message of hope and resilience. “I hope this song brings you hope,” Taylor says. “The journey of life puts us all on our own respective pathways to find out who we are, and how we can strive to overcome any struggles we experience. Pathways is meant to be a letter from a person who’s gone through many experiences and is trying to be there for someone else.” The album Pathways, co-produced by Taylor and Colin Linden (noted for his work with Emmylou Harris, Bruce Cockburn, and Blackie and The Rodeo Kings), is a reflective exploration of life’s challenges and the pursuit of inner peace. Taylor describes the album in three words: “righteousness, acceptance, and enlightenment,” adding, “On this record, I’m sharing in the struggles we all face, and I’m trying to make it better through these songs.” Full UK Tour Dates: 22nd August – Shoreham-by-Sea (Ropetackle Arts Centre) 24th August – Lutterworth (The Long Road Festival) 25th August – London (Water Rats) 28th August – Liverpool (The Music Room) 29th August – Shrewsbury (Shrewsbury Abbey) 30th August – Blackpool (The British Country Music Festival) 31st August – Gainsborough (Kirton in Lindsey Diamond Jubilee Town Hall) 1st September – Barnoldswick (Barnoldswick Music & Arts Centre) 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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Morgan Wade releases acclaimed third album ‘Obsessed’

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Country music sensation Morgan Wade has unveiled her highly anticipated third studio album, ‘Obsessed’, to widespread critical acclaim. This 14-track collection, entirely penned by Wade herself, strips back the layers to reveal the raw essence of her identity as a musician, storyteller, and human being. The album, produced by her touring guitarist Clint Wells, showcases Wade’s ability to connect deeply with her audience through her poignant lyrics and distinctive voice. Wade’s songwriting on ‘Obsessed’ delves into themes of longing for home, the emotional weight of reuniting with loved ones, and the complexities of relationships that challenge societal norms. Her introspective lyrics provide an unflinching look at her personal journey, laying bare the moments when she has faltered, all while showcasing the resilience that has made her a standout in the world of country music. The album also marks a significant milestone in Wade’s career with her first-ever collaboration, featuring pop icon Kesha on the haunting ballad ‘Walked on Water’. The track highlights the duo’s vocal chemistry as they explore the theme of costly mistakes and the painful process of self-realisation. The chorus resonates with Wade’s trademark authenticity: “People like me, we don’t do well at sea, because I thought I walked on water.” ‘Obsessed’ has been met with praise from critics, who have hailed Wade’s honest songwriting and powerful vocal delivery. As Wade continues to solidify her place as one of country music’s most compelling voices, ‘Obsessed’ stands as a testament to her growth as an artist and her fearless approach to storytelling. 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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Koe Wetzel announces UK and European tour

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Platinum-selling Texan singer-songwriter Koe Wetzel is set to make his much-anticipated debut in the UK and Europe this year. The acclaimed artist will bring his ‘Damn Near Normal World Tour’ to major cities across the region, including London, Manchester, Glasgow, Birmingham, and Leeds, as well as Amsterdam, Hamburg, Berlin, and Cologne. Reflecting on his journey from humble beginnings, Wetzel shared, “We started out nearly 10 years ago playing bars in Texas for tips and a case of beer, and have slowly seen that grow to sold-out venues across the U.S. as fans share the music. Bringing our tour to Europe is honestly hard to wrap my head around — we can’t wait to party with you all.” This string of UK and European shows comes hot on the heels of Wetzel’s latest album, 9 Lives, released last month to widespread acclaim. The album debuted at No. 15 on the all-genre Billboard 200 and No. 5 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, making it his fourth Top 10 entry. Notably, it ranked No. 2 among new releases, trailing only the soundtrack for the film Twisters. 9 Lives has been making waves with fans, particularly through its standout tracks ‘High Road’, featuring Jessie Murph, and the rising chart favourite ‘Sweet Dreams’. Wetzel, reflecting on the album’s success, noted, “We’ve been honing and growing a certain sound, and we’re hitting it: it’s what the people have been expecting from me, but we hadn’t gotten there yet.” Wetzel’s excitement about the connection with his audience is palpable: “This weekend we saw thousands of people singing the lyrics to every single song from the time we get onto that stage until we were done. When you see that, you realise what you’re saying means something to people – and that’s more important than anything.” Fans across the UK and Europe will soon have the chance to experience Wetzel’s dynamic live performances firsthand as he kicks off his tour in Manchester on 26th October, concluding in Cologne on 7th November. Full UK & Europe tour dates: 26th October – Manchester, UK – Manchester Academy 3 27th October – London, UK – The Garage 30th October – Glasgow, UK – Oran Mor 31st October – Birmingham, UK – O2 Academy Birmingham 1st November – Leeds, UK – Brudenell Social Club 3rd November – Amsterdam, NL – Melkweg 5th November – Hamburg, DE – Bahnhof Pauli 6th November – Berlin, DE – Frannz Club 7th November – Cologne, DE – Club Volta 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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Mitski goes country for All Points East festival

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

The All Points East festival in east London showcased a day rich with country influences and Americana sounds, offering a lineup that captivated audiences with its depth and diversity. Mitski’s country-inspired tunes were the undisputed highlight as the first weekend of the festival wrapped up. Making her debut as a festival headliner in London, the acclaimed singer-songwriter delivered a deeply moving set that spanned over a decade of her celebrated career. Her performance was enhanced by the inclusion of instruments like the pedal steel, accordion, and organ, which brought a warm and colourful dimension to her music. Mitski expertly balanced different tempos and moods, moving from the introspective ‘I Don’t Like My Mind’ to the rhythmic energy of ‘Happy’. The delicate acoustic vibes of ‘The Frost’ contrasted beautifully with the brooding atmosphere of ‘I Bet on Losing Dogs’, where Mitski’s theatrical stage presence, including a moment where she mimicked a dog on all fours, left the audience spellbound. The evening was a testament to the power of country and Americana in modern music, with Mitski’s set being a standout example of how these genres can captivate and resonate with a contemporary audience. TV Girl brought their unique brand of indie pop to the festival, showcasing the quirky charm that has won them a devoted following online. Their set was a lively journey through their four-album catalogue, filled with infectious melodies and witty banter. Songs like ‘Blue Hair’, ‘Not Allowed’, and ‘Cigarettes Out the Window’ sparked loud reactions from a crowd that knew them well, proving that TV Girl is far more than just a viral sensation. By the time they closed with ‘Lover’s Rock’, the band had left a lasting impression, solidifying their place in the festival’s lineup. Arlo Parks, a London native, took to the Cupra North Stage, offering a soulful performance that highlighted the depth of her songwriting and the power of her live band. Her poetic lyrics and the band’s rich sound created an intimate atmosphere, even within the confines of a festival tent. Standout moments included a rocked-up version of ‘Hurt’ and the funky grooves of ‘Too Good’. Parks dedicated her breakout single ‘Black Dog’ to the crowd, reinforcing the personal connection she shares with her audience. Her set was a masterclass in how to deliver an emotionally charged and immersive live experience. Ethel Cain brought her dark, gothic Americana to the East Stage, captivating a large and enthusiastic audience. Her performance featured tracks from her acclaimed debut album ‘Preacher’s Daughter’, including a haunting rendition of ‘Thoroughfare’ and an atmospheric cover of ‘Bette Davis Eyes’. Cain’s set was filled with dynamic and dramatic moments, leaving fans eager for her next visit to London. Other notable performances included Suki Waterhouse, who wowed the crowd with a mix of her own hits and a special cover of ‘Don’t Look Back in Anger’, and Lucius, who brought their 60s-inspired indie pop to life on the East Stage. Strawberry Guy and Good Neighbours also made their mark, delivering performances that left a lasting impression on the festival’s attendees. Overall, All Points East 2024 proved to be a celebration of country and Americana sounds, showcasing a diverse array of artists who brought these genres to life in the heart of east London. 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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We are Hung Up on Ella Langley’s ‘Hungover’

Leave a Comment / Exclusives / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

As the release date for Ella Langley’s much-anticipated album approaches on 2nd August 2024, fans and critics alike are abuzz with excitement especially after the debut of her latest single ‘Hungover.’ This track offers a tantalising glimpse into what promises to be an album filled with soulful melodies, compelling lyrics and the distinctive voice that has firmly positioned Langley in the contemporary country music scene. A melody to remember ‘Hungover’ is an earworm in the best possible way. The song opens with a catchy, upbeat guitar riff that immediately grabs your attention. The instrumentation is quintessentially country with a modern twist. It’s clear that Langley and her producers have taken great care in crafting a sound that is both familiar and fresh. The melody is infectious, the kind that stays with you long after the song has ended. The upbeat tempo and the use of traditional country instruments like the banjo and steel guitar blended with more modern elements create a soundscape that is both nostalgic and contemporary. The chorus is particularly memorable, with a sing-along quality that is sure to make it a favourite at live performances. The melodic structure of ‘Hungover’ showcases Langley’s ability to write hooks that are both catchy and meaningful, a skill that sets her apart in the crowded country music landscape. It is this blend of the old and new, the traditional and the contemporary that gives ‘Hungover’ its unique charm. The song not only pays homage to the roots of country music but also pushes the genre forward, introducing new sounds and ideas that make it accessible to a wider audience. The production quality of the single is also noteworthy. Each instrument is meticulously placed in the mix, allowing every element of the song to shine. The production team has done an excellent job of ensuring that Langley’s voice remains front and centre, supported by a rich tapestry of sound that enhances the emotional impact of the song. This attention to detail is a testament to the high standards that Langley sets for her music and it bodes well for the quality of the upcoming album. Langley’s songwriting shines in ‘Hungover.’ The lyrics are a vivid depiction of post-party regret, a theme that is universally relatable yet delivered with a fresh perspective. Lines like ‘Woke up in last night’s clothes, head pounding like a drum,’ paint a vivid picture of the aftermath of a wild night. Langley’s ability to capture the small details of an experience gives the song a sense of authenticity and relatability. Her storytelling is both poignant and humorous, capturing the duality of emotions that come with a hangover. The chorus with its catchy refrain ‘Hungover and heartbroken, wishing I was still drunk,’ perfectly encapsulates the bittersweet nature of the song. It’s a clever play on the double meaning of being ‘hungover’—both physically from alcohol and emotionally from a relationship. This lyrical depth is a testament to Langley’s growth as a songwriter, showcasing her ability to tackle common themes with a unique twist. The song delves into the complex emotions of regret and longing, exploring how they intertwine in the aftermath of both a night of drinking and a failed relationship. 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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CMT celebrates legendary band Alabama with star-studded tribute

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

In a two-hour special, ‘CMT GIANTS: ALABAMA’, the iconic country music band Alabama was honoured in a star-studded tribute that featured once-in-a-lifetime performances and heartfelt tributes from some of the biggest names in the music industry. The event, which aired on CMT, celebrated the band’s storied career, marking their indelible influence on the country music scene. The evening’s performances included renditions of Alabama’s greatest hits, with Blake Shelton teaming up with Steve Wariner and Kara Britz for a powerful version of ‘Old Flame’, while Brad Paisley delivered a rousing performance of ‘Old Alabama’. Jason Aldean’s rendition of ‘Love in the First Degree’ and Jamey Johnson’s soulful take on ‘Angels Among Us’ also captivated the audience. Other performances included Little Big Town’s version of ‘The Closer You Get’, Old Dominion’s energetic take on ‘Roll On (Eighteen Wheeler)’, and Pam Tillis and Lorrie Morgan’s duet of ‘Feels So Right’. Sam Hunt rounded off the musical tributes with his version of ‘Song of the South’. In addition to the musical performances, the special featured appearances by some of Alabama’s long-time friends and fans, including boxing legend Evander Holyfield, country stars Luke Bryan and Martina McBride, and music icons Lionel Richie and Vince Gill. The evening also included exclusive sit-down interviews with Randy Owen and Teddy Gentry, reflecting on their remarkable journey in the music industry. For those who missed the live broadcast, ‘CMT GIANTS: ALABAMA’ is available on CMT VOD starting Friday, 16th August. Fans can also catch encores on CMT, MTV Live, and CMT Music over the coming days, with scheduled airings on Saturday, 17th August, and Sunday, 18th August, among other dates. This celebration of Alabama’s legacy is not to be missed, offering a rare opportunity to see some of the biggest names in country music honour one of the genre’s most influential bands. How to Watch: 16th August: Available on CMT VOD 17th August: 12pm/11c on CMT 18th August: 6pm/5c on MTV Live 21st August: 2pm/1c on MTV Live 23rd August: 8pm/7c on MTV Live 24th August: 8pm/7c on CMT Music 25th August: 8pm/7c on CMT Music, 5pm/4c on CMT Music 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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Kristian Bush of Sugarland set for UK solo tour

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Kristian Bush, the multi-platinum selling, Grammy-winning singer and songwriter, is set to bring his solo act to the UK at the end of August, ahead of Sugarland’s much-anticipated relaunch this autumn. Bush, a founding member of the country duo, will embark on a seven-show UK tour starting on 24th August at The Long Road Festival in Leicestershire. The tour includes performances in London, Manchester and Liverpool, as well as a festival in Paisley, Scotland. Bush’s relationship with the UK music scene stretches back decades, beginning in 1994 when he opened for Melissa Etheridge at the iconic Royal Albert Hall. However, this tour marks his first UK performances since Sugarland headlined the C2C Festival in 2018. The year is proving to be one of the busiest of Bush’s career. In March, he made his Grand Ole Opry debut with his duo Billy Pilgrim. Additionally, he produced Megan Moroney’s second album, ‘Am I Okay?’, which received rave reviews upon its release. July also saw the release of an island remix of his hit single ‘Trailer Hitch’, featuring Boots Rock Reggae master Cas Haley. Following his UK stint, Bush is set to rejoin Sugarland for the co-headlining ‘Take Me Home’ arena tour with Little Big Town in the United States. The tour, named after the groups’ collaborative version of Phil Collins’ classic ‘Take Me Home’, is scheduled to launch in October in Greenville, South Carolina and conclude in December at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. The tour celebrates Little Big Town’s 25th anniversary as a group and marked 20 years of Sugarland, with The Castellows set to open for the shows. 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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Russell Dickerson to release ‘Bones The EP’ on 30 August

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Russell Dickerson, the multi-platinum selling artist renowned for his “top-notch vocals and earnest songwriting” (Billboard), is gearing up to release his highly anticipated project, ‘Bones The EP’. Set to drop on 30 August, this collection of tracks delves into the relationships and experiences that have shaped the country superstar into the artist he is today. Fans can pre-save the EP now. The EP, which shares its name with Dickerson’s latest single ‘Bones’, has been described as a “gothic love song masquerading as a country-pop banger” (PopCulture). The project offers listeners a journey through some of the most significant relationships in Dickerson’s life, all while maintaining his signature country-pop sound. Across five tracks, the EP explores themes of love in various forms, from late-night bonfires with friends to the bittersweet memories of past romances and the profound connections forged over a cold beer. A visualiser accompanying the release sets the tone for this deeply personal project and is available to watch now. Reflecting on the EP, Dickerson shared, “‘Bones The EP’ is a nostalgic collection of songs that take me back to some of the best times of my life. Those nights that you don’t want to end with the people you love most. Relationships that didn’t work out and hurt at the time, but turned out for the best. I hope people hear these songs and get transported to a place with people they love.” Russell Dickerson’s UK headline tour begins on 23 August in Belfast, leading up to the release of ‘Bones The EP’ a week later. Fans across the UK can look forward to experiencing these new songs live, just days before they become available 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

Russell Dickerson to release ‘Bones The EP’ on 30 August Read More »

Elles Bailey climbs the UK charts with ‘Beneath The Neon Glow’

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Elles Bailey’s latest album, ‘Beneath The Neon Glow’, has made an impressive debut, peaking at #5 in the UK midweek Official Albums Chart. Competing against heavyweights like Taylor Swift and Eminem, this is a remarkable achievement for the independent artist. Bailey’s new album has already garnered significant praise, with Maverick giving the release a 10/10 review. Produced by Dan Weller, ‘Beneath The Neon Glow’ showcases Bailey’s powerful vocals and emotionally resonant songwriting, exploring themes of love, heartbreak and resilience. Despite the strong midweek performance, the battle is far from over. As Bailey faces competition from artists with massive streaming numbers, every single download and physical sale becomes crucial in securing her spot in the top 10. This is a pivotal moment in Bailey’s career, and her fans have the chance to make a real difference. Bailey’s supporters are rallying together, urging everyone to download or purchase the album before the chart closes tonight. Currently in the midst of an August in-store release tour, Bailey is set to embark on a 16-date UK headline tour this autumn, including a show at London’s Islington Assembly Hall on 2nd November. With glowing early reviews and a growing fanbase, Bailey’s rise in the music industry seems inevitable. 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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Megan Moroney returns to tour the UK

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

One of country music’s biggest breakout stars in recent years, Megan Moroney, is set to return to the UK for a seven-date headline tour next month. The tour follows the release of her critically acclaimed sophomore album, Am I Okay?, which debuted at No. 9 on the Billboard 200 in July. Moroney, who is fast approaching 1.5 billion career streams, continues to make waves in the industry with her distinctive sound and compelling songwriting. The Georgia native has already set impressive records, including the biggest debut for a female country song in streams in the US with ‘No Caller ID’, which garnered 8.4 million global streams within its first week of release in January. The track, Moroney’s fastest streaming song to date, also made its mark on the Billboard Hot 100 and Spotify’s US Top 100 (all-genre). Fans were treated to a live acoustic version of the hit in June as part of her “Emo Cowgirl Live Sessions” series. Moroney’s musical journey began during her time studying accounting at the University of Georgia, where she started writing her own songs. Her debut album, Lucky, released last year, received widespread critical acclaim, featuring on best-of-the-year lists from prestigious outlets such as the New York Times, Rolling Stone (which named it the #1 country album of 2023), Billboard, and the Associated Press, who praised her as a “Gen Z songwriter with Taylor Swift-level acuity.” The album also included her breakout single, ‘Tennessee Orange’, which has been certified 2x Platinum and has amassed over 256 million streams on Spotify. The single became her first US #1 hit and was highlighted by the Los Angeles Times in their “100 best songs of 2023” list. Moroney’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. She was recently featured on Forbes’ ’30 Under 30′ list and MusicRow’s ‘Next Big Thing Class of 2024’. She has also earned nominations from the CMA, ACM, and Billboard Music Awards, and was featured at The GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles as part of its prestigious SPOTLIGHT series. MEGAN MORONEY – UK 2024 TOUR DATES: Wed., 4 Sep – Cardiff, UK – Tramshed Thur., 5 Sep – Manchester, UK – O2 Ritz Sat., 7 Sep – Belfast, UK – Telegraph Building Mon., 9 Sep – Glasgow, UK – Barrowland Ballroom Tues., 10 Sep – Birmingham, UK – O2 Institute Thur., 12 Sep – Cambridge, UK – Junction Fri., 13 Sep – London, UK – O2 Forum Kentish Town Moroney’s UK tour promises to be a highlight of the country music calendar, with fans eagerly awaiting the chance to experience her live performances following the success of her recent releases. 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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