2025

Kameron Marlowe’s rise from small-town North Carolina to country music stardom is a testament to resilience, authenticity, and passion. His heartfelt storytelling and soulful voice continue to captivate audiences. Kameron Marlowe’s journey to becoming a rising star in country music is as compelling as the heartfelt lyrics of his songs. Born on 20th June 1997 in the unassuming town of Kannapolis, North Carolina, Marlowe’s life seemed destined for the everyday rather than the extraordinary. Growing up, he was surrounded by the close-knit community and values that typify small-town life, where music often served as a backdrop rather than a central focus. For Marlowe, however, music wasn’t just background noise. While he might not have grown up envisioning a life on stage, the melodies and stories inherent to country music resonated deeply with him. Still, his path to the spotlight was far from straightforward. By 2018, he was working as a car salesman, an occupation that paid the bills but offered little in the way of creative fulfilment. Yet, as fate would have it, Marlowe’s life was about to change in ways he could never have anticipated. It all began with an unexpected phone call from a recruiter for Series 15 of The Voice. The call came out of the blue, offering Marlowe a chance to audition for the popular television talent show. Initially hesitant, he eventually decided to take the leap, trading the showroom floor for the glitz and glamour of reality television. In September 2018, Marlowe stepped onto the stage for his blind audition, choosing to join Blake Shelton’s team, a fitting choice given Shelton’s own country roots. Marlowe quickly became a standout contestant, with his rich, soulful voice capturing the hearts of both the judges and the audience. His performances were marked by a blend of vulnerability and grit, qualities that would later define his music. Yet, The Voice is as much a game of strategy as it is talent, and Marlowe found himself at the centre of a dramatic twist when he was ‘stolen’ by Adam Levine. This unexpected switch added an extra layer of intrigue to his journey on the show. Unfortunately, Marlowe’s time on The Voice came to an end in November 2018 when he was eliminated from the competition. For many aspiring artists, such a public setback might have spelled the end of their musical aspirations. But for Marlowe, it was merely a stepping stone on a much larger journey. Determined to chart his own course, Marlowe returned home and began to focus on creating music that was authentic to him. In June 2019, he independently released his debut single, ‘Giving You Up’, a song that would come to define the early stages of his career. Drawing from personal heartbreak, the track was a raw and emotional exploration of love lost and lessons learned. Its stripped-down production and heartfelt lyrics resonated with listeners, marking Marlowe as a promising new voice in country music. Just a few months later, in October 2019, Marlowe followed up with ‘Take You Up On It’, a track that showcased his ability to blend traditional country themes with a fresh, modern sound. While his initial releases were modest in scope, they began to gain traction, particularly ‘Giving You Up’, which found a growing audience online…   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 Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

HunterGirl, a rising star in country music, blends traditional storytelling with a modern edge. From small-town roots to Nashville stardom, her journey is one of passion, perseverance, and authenticity. HunterGirl, born Hunter Wolkonowski in the charming town of Winchester, Tennessee, has become one of country music’s most exciting rising stars. Her story is one of grit, determination, and unrelenting passion for her craft. From her small-town roots to the bustling stages of Nashville and the global spotlight of American Idol, HunterGirl has built her career step by step, earning her place in the competitive world of country music. Her unique blend of “blue jean country” and “leather jacket country” has carved out a distinct space for her in the industry, making her an artist to watch in the years to come. HunterGirl’s connection to music began early. Growing up in a family that valued storytelling and creativity, she discovered her passion for songwriting at the tender age of nine. It didn’t take long for her to realise that music was more than just a hobby—it was her calling. The act of writing songs allowed her to explore her emotions and express herself in ways that resonated deeply, even as a child. By the time she reached her late teens, her talent was undeniable, and she made the life-changing decision to move to Nashville at the age of 18. Once in Nashville, HunterGirl set about making her dreams a reality. She enrolled at Middle Tennessee State University to study songwriting, surrounding herself with peers and mentors who understood the intricacies of creating music that connects with audiences. Her time at university was not just a period of academic growth but also an opportunity to immerse herself in a culture that celebrated creativity and individuality. Her studies sharpened her skills, helping her refine the raw talent she had nurtured since childhood. While many artists take years to find their voice, HunterGirl wasted no time in diving headfirst into the world of live performance. For six years, she performed nightly at some of Nashville’s most iconic honky-tonks, including Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge, Rippy’s Honky Tonk, and Honkytonk Central. These venues, steeped in the history of country music, became her training ground. Performing seven nights a week was no small feat, but it was in these high-pressure environments that she cultivated her stage presence and learned the nuances of entertaining an audience. HunterGirl’s relentless schedule during these years was a testament to her work ethic and determination. It also shaped her sound, a unique blend of “blue jean country”—rooted in traditional Southern storytelling—and “leather jacket country,” which added a modern, edgy twist. This duality in her music reflects her ability to honour the legacy of country music while confidently pushing its boundaries. In 2022, HunterGirl’s career took a monumental leap forward when she auditioned for Season 20 of American Idol. Performing Rascal Flatts’ “Riot,” HunterGirl delivered a rendition that captivated the judges and audience alike. Her powerful vocals, emotional depth, and undeniable stage presence earned her the coveted Platinum Ticket. This accolade, awarded to only a select few contestants, signified her potential to become a star and allowed her to bypass the first round of Hollywood Week. Throughout the season, HunterGirl proved herself to be more than just a contestant; she was a genuine artist. Her performances consistently wowed the judges, with Luke Bryan emerging as one of her biggest advocates. Bryan described her as his “favourite female country voice,” a high compliment from someone deeply ingrained in the country music scene. Under his mentorship, HunterGirl thrived, showcasing her ability to connect with audiences through authentic, emotionally charged performances. Though she ultimately finished as the season’s runner-up, her time on American Idol was far from a consolation prize. The exposure she gained on the show introduced her to a national—and even international—audience, earning her a loyal fanbase and the attention of industry insiders. For HunterGirl, American Idol was not the end of the road but the beginning of a new chapter. Her performance on the show caught the attention of Jon Loba, president of BBR Music Group, who was captivated by her talent. Loba, recognising her potential, made the decisive move to sign her to a record deal with BBR Music Group in partnership with 19 Recordings and BMG Nashville. This partnership marked a turning point in HunterGirl’s career, providing her with the resources and platform to share her artistry with a much wider audience. The next significant milestone in her career came in June 2024 with the release of her debut EP, Tennessee Girl. This six-track project, produced by the acclaimed Lindsay Rimes, showcased her growth as an artist and songwriter. Each track on the EP told a story, reflecting her experiences, values, and emotions. From introspective ballads to energetic anthems, Tennessee Girl was a testament to HunterGirl’s versatility and her ability to craft songs that resonate on a deeply personal level. Among the standout tracks was the single “Bad Boy,” a high-energy song that quickly became a fan favourite. With its infectious melody and sharp, relatable lyrics, the track captured HunterGirl’s essence as an artist—someone unafraid to speak her truth and connect with listeners on an emotional level. Other tracks, such as the reflective “Weather in Tennessee” and the empowering “Ain’t About You,” added depth to the EP, highlighting her range and ability to navigate different themes with authenticity. HunterGirl’s unique style is one of her most compelling attributes. Describing her music as a blend of “blue jean country” and “leather jacket country,” she seamlessly combines the traditional storytelling roots of country music with a modern, edgy sensibility. This fusion allows her to appeal to a broad audience, bridging generational gaps and introducing younger listeners to the rich heritage of country music. Her authenticity extends beyond her music. Despite her rising fame, HunterGirl remains deeply connected to her roots. Her small-town upbringing in Winchester and her years of hard work in Nashville honky-tonks are not just footnotes in her story—they are the

Maverick talks to Midnight Sky about their latest album release White HEat, available to listen to now! Your new single, “White Heat” presents a fiery and intense energy, a departure from the reflective tone of your previous work. What inspired this shift in musical direction?  I try to make my creative output somewhat eclectic. One day the phrase “Nero fiddled while Rome burned down” popped into my head, and I knew I wouldn’t be writing a waltz.  The phrase “Nero fiddled while Rome burned down” sparked the creation of “White Heat.” How did this imagery influence the song’s narrative and composition?   As soon as I had that line, I tried to include as many “fire” and “heat” references as I could. The title came from my understanding that white heat is the hottest heat there is.  The remix of “A Few Good Years” adds a new dimension to an already poignant track. What motivated you to revisit and reinterpret this song?  Of all the songs I’ve produced, that one has gotten the most praise. I loved the original version, which has only a grand piano and a string section as instrumentation. But my publicist, Mike Stover, suggested that I punch it up a little bit and add some more instrumentation. He was the one who suggested ramping it up after the first chorus. He was right.  How do “White Heat” and “A Few Good Years (Remix)” reflect the band’s versatility and ability to explore contrasting themes and emotions?   I never set out to write a song in a particular genre. Generally, the lyrics tend to push me in one direction or another. One of my favorite compliments is “That doesn’t sound like something you would write.”  “Last Hope for the Modern World” has been described as a collection of original songs combining emotionally charged songwriting with impressive musicianship. Can you share the overarching themes of this album and what you hope listeners take away from it?   I’m not sure that the album has a theme. But I think that, more than the first two albums, almost all the tracks are very personal. When I decided the order of the tracks, I found myself alternating upbeat songs with downbeat songs. (I’m not sure this matters since people tend not to listen to albums in sequence anymore.) If there’s a theme, I think it’s that life is sometimes happy and sometimes sad and a lot of in between.   The title track, “Last Hope for the Modern World,” was the first single sent to radio. What message does this song convey, and why was it chosen to represent the album?  Well, first, I love the title. It came out of nowhere when we were recording the album. And it was the last track written. I think the title is ambiguous: The song could be positive, or it could be dismal. It actually turned out to be a bit of both. I think it was released first because the performances are great, and it clearly crosses genres.  How did the creative process for this album differ from your previous releases, and were there any new influences or experiences that shaped its sound?   I don’t think the creative process changed, but I’ve lived four more years since the last album. Four more years of life experiences are bound to change the way you look at the world.  Midnight Sky’s music blends country and Americana with various other influences. How have your musical inspirations evolved over time, and how do they manifest in your recent work?   My response to the previous question also applies here. “Dark Stretch” was released in 2014, and “Last Hope” was released in 2023. It’s easy to list my creative influences, at least the obvious ones: Hank Sr., Guthrie, Berry, Dylan, McGuinn, Petty, Dave Alvin. But, in reality, I think most artistic inspiration is more subtle. It’s like the title card in a movie that says, “inspired by a true story.” In this case, the true story is my life.  Reflecting on your journey from your debut album “Dark Stretch of Road” to “Last Hope for the Modern World,” how has the band’s sound and artistic vision evolved?   I know the sound and vision have evolved, but it was organic rather than calculated. While Midnight Sky has a core of regulars, we use a lot of “one off” musicians who really influence the sound.  Your background includes a long career as a lawyer alongside your musical endeavors. How has this duality influenced your songwriting and perspective as an artist?  There is one thing that is critical to both legal writing and songwriting: Every word matters. For example, there might be a line in a song that could begin with “but” or “and” or “yet.” Each one works, but one works best. It should be the goal of every writer to make that choice correctly.  What can fans expect from Midnight Sky in the future? Are there any new projects or directions you’re excited to explore?  Over the past few months, we released “442,” a Beach Boys-style car song. We’ve also recorded “Dockside Jump,” which is a big band/swing number. That should be coming out soon. As long as I keep writing, we’ll keep recording!    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 Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Ringo Starr’s ‘Look Up’ blends heartfelt country with rich collaborations, marking his first full-length country album in over 50 years, produced by T Bone Burnett.  On January 10, 2025, Ringo Starr unveils ‘Look Up’, a country album that marks his first full-length venture into the genre in over five decades. With a stunning collaboration between the legendary Beatle and the iconic T Bone Burnett, this record isn’t just another star-studded country album – it’s a tribute to Ringo’s deep roots in the genre that have long been part of his musical identity. For fans of Ringo’s work with The Beatles, where country elements were always subtly present, ‘Look Up’ feels like a natural evolution. Country music has always been part of Starr’s musical DNA, with early songs like ‘Act Naturally’ and ‘Don’t Pass Me By’ standing as proof of his affection for the genre. Yet, with ‘Look Up’, Starr takes that passion to new heights, exploring modern country while paying homage to its classic roots. The 11-track album, recorded in both Nashville and Los Angeles, is a carefully crafted collection, co-written and co-produced by Burnett, with nine of the songs penned or co-penned by him. The album opens with ‘Breathless’, featuring the renowned Billy Strings, setting the tone for an album that moves with ease between traditional country, bluegrass, and even a touch of rockabilly. It’s a beautiful example of the seamless fusion that Ringo and Burnett create, where Starr’s vocals and drumming form a perfect foundation for the rich instrumental tapestry. Each track on ‘Look Up’ carries its own story. ‘Look Up’, the title track, features the unmistakable sound of Molly Tuttle, and its melancholy but uplifting lyrics resonate deeply. Written by Daniel Tashian and Burnett, it’s a stirring reminder of the power of music to transcend the moments that shape us. Then, there’s ‘Time On My Hands’, the album’s debut single, which serves as a perfect introduction to the record’s mood. Co-written by Paul Kennerly, Tashian, and Burnett, the song is a reflective piece that speaks to the passage of time, a theme that becomes a quiet motif throughout the album. Perhaps one of the standout moments of the record is ‘Never Let Me Go’, which features Billy Strings again. The track feels like a timeless classic, evoking memories of the heartfelt ballads that country music is known for. ‘Can You Hear Me Call’, another Burnett-penned track featuring Tuttle, brings the album back to its more intimate moments, with subtle arrangements that focus on Starr’s seasoned vocals and Tuttle’s angelic harmonies. However, it is on ‘Thankful’ – the closing track – that Ringo’s full emotional range comes through. This song, which he co-wrote with Bruce Sugar, features the legendary Alison Krauss. The lyrics are an expression of gratitude, with Krauss’s ethereal voice lending the track an almost celestial quality. ‘Thankful’ feels like a perfect way to close an album that balances nostalgia with fresh perspectives. In a way, it also reflects Starr’s personal journey, full of thanks for the life and career he’s had, and for the friends who have shaped it, like Burnett. Starr’s partnership with Burnett is, undoubtedly, one of the driving forces of the album’s success. In an interview, Starr himself reflected on the moment when Burnett brought him nine country tracks instead of just the one he had requested. This serendipitous shift pushed Starr to create a full album instead of just an EP, and in doing so, he found himself on a new musical path. Starr’s enthusiasm for the project is palpable. “It was a joy making it and I hope it is a joy to listen to,” he said, and as listeners press play, it’s clear that joy was at the heart of this record…   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

Americana titan Lyle Lovett finally makes the trip across the Atlantic to delight and mesmerise fans in London. With his signature blend of country, jazz, and storytelling, Lyle Lovett delighted London audiences with a performance full of charm, humour, and masterful musicianship. In the UK, Lyle Lovett remains best known to the mainstream for his brief but high-profile marriage to Julia Roberts in the mid-1990s. It’s an unfair yet inevitable footnote for an artist whose career has spanned decades, seamlessly blending country, jazz, swing, folk, and blues into a sound that is uniquely his own. Beyond the gossip pages, Lovett has earned a devoted following as a Grammy-winning songwriter, an actor (notably in Robert Altman’s The Player and Short Cuts), and, above all, a consummate live performer. His recorded output has become more sporadic in recent years—his latest album, 12th of June, was his first in a decade—but his touring schedule remains consistent, even if appearances on this side of the Atlantic are rare. That made his UK run a must-see event. With a near sell-out crowd in attendance, anticipation was high—not least because Lovett was honoured as an international trailblazer at this week’s UK Americana Awards. Taking the stage in his signature suit and tie, Lovett was preceded by a quintet of superb musicians, each a master of their craft. Over the course of more than two hours, the Texan shared the spotlight generously, revelling in the camaraderie of a band that included ace fiddler Stuart Duncan and virtuoso pianist Jim Cox. Opening with ‘On a Winter’s Morning’ from ’12th of June’, Lovett immediately showcased his deft touch with a jazz-infused arrangement. The playful energy continued with a blistering rendition of the bluegrass classic ‘Head Over Heels’, with fingers flying across strings and keys in a dizzying display of technical prowess. From the outset, Lovett’s voice was in fine form, warm and expressive. Yet, as the evening progressed, a crack began to creep into his delivery. Between songs, he requested a cup of tea—perhaps a sign that he was nursing a strain—but rather than detract from the experience, the occasional vocal fragility only added to the charm. A born raconteur, Lovett balanced any vocal limitations with his remarkable gift for storytelling. His wry, self-deprecating humour had the audience in stitches. Performing ‘Here I Am’ as a part-spoken skit, Lovett’s comedic timing was impeccable. His storytelling prowess was further on display as he delivered old favourites like ‘If I Had a Boat’ and ‘She’s No Lady’, his band stepping in seamlessly to support the more delicate moments. Any slight roughness in his voice was offset by the sheer richness of the arrangements, each song a testament to Lovett’s ability to blend musical styles without losing his signature sound. Throughout the set, the interplay between the musicians was a highlight. Duncan’s fiddle soared, Cox’s piano sparkled, and Lovett himself demonstrated nimble guitar work, though he often seemed more content to let his bandmates take the lead. It was a reminder that Lovett has never been a conventional country star—he is an artist who thrives on collaboration, whose music defies easy categorisation. By the time the final notes rang out, any concern about vocal strain had long been forgotten. The performance had been a triumph—warm, witty, and steeped in musical excellence. For UK fans, Lovett’s appearances may be few and far between, but nights like this confirm why his cult status remains firmly intact. As he continues his UK tour and prepares to receive his well-earned Americana award, one thing is clear: Lyle Lovett is far more than a footnote in celebrity history—he is one of America’s finest musical storytellers, and a live act not to be missed.   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