Afua Akoto

The Country Music Association and ABC announced that “The 59th Annual CMA Awards” will return to Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena on Wednesday, Nov. 19, airing live on ABC at 8/7c. Country Music’s Biggest Night™ will once again shine a spotlight on the genre’s most exceptional talent, honoring outstanding achievements and celebrating excellence across the industry. Details on the show’s host and ticket on-sale will be shared in the coming weeks. The ceremony will also be available to stream next day on Hulu. As previously announced, the eligibility period for the 2025 CMA Awards is July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. Prospective members must apply by Sunday, June 1 to qualify for full voting eligibility this year. The Nomination Ballot will open for voting Monday, July 7. “The 59th Annual CMA Awards” is a production of the Country Music Association. Robert Deaton is the Executive Producer, Alan Carter is the Director, and Jon Macks is the Head Writer. About the CMA Awards Since 1967, the CMA Awards have honored the outstanding achievements of Country Music’s most influential artists and creatives. What began as a small banquet has evolved into one of music’s most anticipated nights—uniting the Country Music community for a powerful, peer-voted celebration of the genre’s brightest stars, biggest moments, and most meaningful contributions. As the longest-running annual music awards program on network television, the CMA Awards shine an international spotlight on the creative excellence and cultural impact of Country Music. Produced by the Country Music Association and airing on ABC since 2006, the show serves as a cornerstone of CMA’s year-round mission to support and elevate the format. 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

Today a new beacon of hope has been birthed. The debut album from Sammyfunk – aptly titled We Are Sammyfunk – has arrived on digital platforms across the globe. Led by eccentric rock n’ roll front-man Sammy T. Taylor the album is expansive despite its relatively short track of list of 8 songs. With the album’s release, the Spanish quartet (plus a man in a cheap monkey suit), have shared an animated video for the album’s third single, “Cockney Gangster,” which transports The Pussycats to a Kray twins pub in East London. Watch + share the video here. Discussing the single Taylor notes, “‘Cockney Gangster’ was recorded to sound like a mid-90’s Britpop stomper (a genre I’m a huge fan of). The verses mimic a schoolyard style teasing rhyme, with their simple repeating melody and aloof young man arrogance. In all honesty, the chorus was an excuse (I hope) to yell the word ‘cock!’ on the radio. Of course it is only the first half of the word ‘cockney’.. but the way the word is split up by a whole 4 beat long bar of music, it comes out as ‘cock-(2..3..4..)-ney! Gangster!’ Cock-genius. And totally dumb at the same time. It’s more silly good times from Sammyfunk. But this time with louder guitars. And a rude word.” The son of another eccentric front-man and Spanish music legend – a fact Sammy did not discover until he was 30 years old – about a decade ago Sammy thought ‘oh ok, fuck it’ and moved to his father’s home country to find and form a ‘great rock n roll band’. The Seville based rock ‘supergroup’ was called Los Labios (The Lips). Sammy was highly praised in particular for his live performances with Los Labios, indeed it was enough to quickly persuade Lenny Kravitz, who saw him perform live at a mutual friend’s birthday party, to invite his band to record their first (and only) album in is multi-million dollar private studio in the Bahamas in 2016. The first act to ever do so except for Lenny himself. They remain friendly to this day, and the Sammyfunk album was produced by one of Lenny’s musicians and closest friends Yianni Giannakopoulos, and mixed back in Lenny’s studio by Craig Ross, L.K.’s lead guitarist/producer for the last 30 years. “‘We Are Sammyfunk’ was recorded in parts, over nearly 2 years in studios in LA, London, Spain and the Bahamas. Despite its 8 songs and relatively short running time it bounces around musical genres in an almost lunatic way – 2 funk songs, 2 country songs, 2 Britpop songs, a Bowie tribute, and a pop song about a Spanish Gypsy girl obsessed with hip-hop. Yes, there is a rap in that one. It’s a total genre clusterf**k, but that’s exactly the way I planned it,” continues Taylor. “Each song on the record is sung by a totally different ‘character,’ even accents are changed freely (screw it, I say- it’s only rock n roll..) After being ‘trapped’ in a straight-up rock band for most of last decade, with this record I wanted to show some of the different sides of me as a writer/performer, some of my different vocal styles, and my eclectic music genre fandoms. Be thankful there’s no death metal on there though, cause I like that too! Hmmm ..maybe on Sammyfunk II tho…..?”… 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

A testament to not settling for anything less than his truest form of self-expression, Jedd Hughes’s latest album, Nightshades, finds the Australia-born, Nashville-based songwriter and musician’s technicolor musical world blossoming into its fullest potential. Combining mesmerizingly deep and inspiring songwriting with heartbreakingly beautiful guitar playing, carrying listeners to a multitude of unique sonic landscapes, full of witty yet introspective lyrics and lilting, poignant tales of life—not unlike some of his lauded songwriter collaborators, Rodney Crowell, Jim Lauderdale, and Guy Clark, to name a few. “I came over here to make my own music––that was my dream,” Hughes says of his journey from a town of just over a thousand residents in Quorn, Australia, to the bustling music industry of Nashville, Tennessee. “I started suppressing that dream for a while in the midst of defining my artistry relative to what commerce driven aspects pushed for. To make my own music, I had to figure out what that even was. I had to get some confidence, to try it again, and believe in myself.” Recently, in a recording session among icons Emmylou Harris, Buddy Miller, and Sam Bush, Hughes had an epiphany. “I was just sitting in the room, thinking, ‘How the hell did I get from the middle of nowhere to moments like these?’” As it turns out, blazing your own path and sticking to it leads to higher heights, legendary opportunities, and the ability to carve out a singular place for one’s artistry, as Hughes has done with Nightshades. And in true fashion, the powers that be who are looking for that trailblazing authenticity tend to see it shining bright and true. Nightshades is set to be one of the inaugural releases on Truly Handmade Records, a division of Guy Clark LLC formed by Clark’s grandchildren to support artists who, in their words, “live in the spirit of Guy Clark.” The late Clark was not only one of the world’s favorite songwriters, but a dear friend to Hughes—the two co-write songs, shared stages and studios, and generally enjoyed each other’s company—making this release of Nightshades a sweet, full-circle moment for the pair. Recently nominated by the Academy of Country Music for the Electric Guitarist of the Year award, Hughes will take the stage at the Grand Ole Opry on May 2 and again at Nashville’s 3rd & Lindsley on May 4th to celebrate the release of Nightshades and will be hitting the road as a member of Vince Gill’s band throughout 2025. Nightshades Tracklist: Meet Me In the Dark Underground Nightshades Stay, Don’t Be Cruel Loving You Is The Only Way To Fly Nothing’s Gonna Bring Me Down Kill My Blues Day After Day Riff Raff Aftermath 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

Nashville-based singer-songwriter and fastest rising voice in country music, Max McNown, released his new single “Same Questions” alongside a moving performance video via Fugitive Recordings x The Orchard x Columbia Records. “”When I wrote ‘Same Questions’ I knew I wanted to write a breakup song, but in a different way – through the lens of questions that get asked in relationships.” says McNown. “From “how many kids will we have” to the early basic questions, like “where are you from. Everyone and anyone in a relationship has asked some version of these questions throughout love and loss.” This new single follows his previously released “St. Helens Alpenglow” and Call Me If You Miss Me”, and continues the story of his stunning sophomore album Night Diving (released 24th January), a graceful fusion of folk and pop produced by Jamie Kenney (Colbie Caillat, Laci Kaye Booth). One of the “brightest newly minted stars to come out of Nashville in recent years” (GRAMMY.com), McNown recently made his UK and European debut at C2C: Country to Country Festival in London, Berlin and Rotterdam and will be returning overseas for a headlining tour across the UK, the Netherlands, Germany and France in December. Full dates can be found below. UK/EU TOUR DATES: 1st December – Dublin, Ireland – 3Olympia Theatre 2nd December – Glasgow, Scotland – Barrowland Ballroom 3rd December – Manchester, England – Albert Hall 5th December – Amsterdam, Netherlands – Melkweg 6th December – Hamburg, Germany – Fabrik 8th December – Paris, France – Alhambra 9th December – London, England – O2 Forum Kentish Town McNown recently made his TV debut on The Kelly Clarkson Show with a charming performance of his current radio single “Better Me For You (Brown Eyes)” – watch here. Just one month before, host and singer-songwriter Kelly Clarkson covered his breakout RIAA Gold certified single “A Lot More Free” – watch here. His additional accolades include being named a 2025 Amazon Music Artist to Watch and Billboard’s Country Rookie of the Month for November of last year following his feature as CMT’s Next Up Now artist alongside the release of Willfully Blind. The EP landed as the Oregon-born artist made his AmericanaFest debut, and as we saw another major resurgence of his breakout hit single “A Lot More Free”. Since the single’s release it has earned Max a top spot as #1 on Billboard’s Emerging Artists chart, peaked at #1 on the iTunes singles chart and #1 on the TikTok Breakthrough USA chart, climbed the Canadian Hot 100 chart, and was placed on Spotify’s Hot Country and Viral 50 global playlists. 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

As part of its core mission, the Country Music Association celebrates excellence not just once a year, but all year long, throughout every corner of the Country Music industry. As the premier trade association for the genre, CMA honors the artists and creatives, broadcasters, touring professionals, and industry leaders whose contributions continue to shape and elevate Country Music worldwide. With the release of its 2025 awards ballot schedule—including key dates for the CMA Awards, Broadcast Awards, Touring Awards, International Awards, and Industry Honors—CMA underscores its ongoing commitment to recognizing the talent, dedication, and innovation that define the format. “Country Music runs on the passion and hard work of so many people—on stage, behind the scenes, and in communities around the world,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “At CMA, we take that to heart. Our awards and industry honors aren’t just about recognition; they’re about celebrating the people who make this genre what it is. We’re proud to shine a light on the incredible creativity, dedication, and teamwork that moves Country Music forward every day.” Below is a snapshot of key dates, eligibility requirements, and voting processes across CMA’s annual awards cycle. CMA Awards Balloting Timeline — “The 59th Annual CMA Awards” The CMA Awards celebrate excellence in Country Music across 12 categories, honoring artists, musicians, songwriters, producers, mix engineers, and music video directors who made a significant impact on the genre during the eligibility period. Eligibility Period: July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025 Voting Process: All CMA Professional voting members can vote in three rounds. As of today, 6,468 Professional members are eligible to vote. Nomination Ballot: Voters write in any artist or project they think deserves a nomination. If it fits the criteria for that category, it counts. Second Ballot: The top 20 vote-getters from the first round move forward (only the top 15 for Entertainer of the Year). Members can vote for up to five candidates in each category. Final Ballot: The top 5 from the second round become the official nominees—and CMA members vote one last time to choose the winners. Members can vote for one nominee in each category. Musician of the Year: Voting in all rounds remains limited to eligible voters in the following membership categories: Musician, Artist, Composer, and Producer/Engineer/Studio. Song of the Year: New this year, only eligible voters in the following membership categories can vote in the Nomination and Second Ballots: Composer, Artist, Musician, Producer/Engineer/Studio, and Publisher/PRO. All eligible voters can vote in the Final Ballot. All three rounds of voting will be conducted online by Election Services Corp. (ESC). To ensure ballot delivery, members are encouraged to add CMAAwardsVote@mg.electionservicescorp.com to their safe senders. All balloting is tabulated by the professional services organization, Deloitte.   Nomination Ballot: Emailed to eligible CMA members on Monday, July 7 Closes Wednesday, July 16 at 6:00 PM/CT Second Ballot: Emailed on Tuesday, Aug. 5 Closes Monday, Aug. 18 at 6:00 PM/CT Final nominees in each of the 12 categories will be announced later this summer. Final Ballot: Emailed on Wednesday, Oct. 1 Closes Wednesday, Oct. 29 at 6:00 PM/CT Membership Deadline & Information: To vote in all three rounds, prospective CMA members must apply for membership by Sunday, June 1 at CMAmember.com… 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

Maverick Magazine takes a look at Wyatt Flores’ unfiltered honesty in country music and how that translates through to his lyricism and relatability. Wyatt Flores is not just another rising country star—he’s a storyteller whose music feels deeply personal, yet universally relatable. From his breakout single Please Don’t Go to his recent album Welcome to the Plains, Flores has proven that songwriting is his superpower. His music doesn’t rely on flashy production or radio-ready hooks; instead, it thrives on raw emotion, vulnerability, and an ability to put words to feelings that many struggle to express. What sets Flores apart is his willingness to dive into some of life’s darkest and most difficult topics. He has been open about his struggles with mental health, using his music as both an outlet and a way to connect with others who are fighting similar battles. Songs like Running Out of Time and Half Life reflect on the weight of anxiety, the fear of not making the most of the time we have, and the internal struggles that often go unseen. Rather than shying away from these conversations, Flores leans into them, providing a soundtrack for those searching for understanding and solace. His breakout hit Please Don’t Go, which addresses themes of loss and emotional turmoil, resonated deeply with listeners, many of whom have shared personal stories about how the song helped them cope with grief and depression. The response to his music isn’t just about streaming numbers or chart success—it’s about the way people feel seen in his lyrics. In a genre that often thrives on themes of small-town nostalgia and honky-tonk nights, Flores’ introspective songwriting offers something refreshingly different: a space where pain, healing, and self-discovery are just as much a part of the story. In an industry where commercial appeal often overshadows authenticity, Flores has taken a different path. His music explores love, loss, mortality, and self-reflection without pretense, blending the tradition of country storytelling with a modern rawness that feels completely his own. This article examines what makes Wyatt Flores stand out in today’s country music world, how his songwriting connects so deeply with listeners, and why he’s become one of the most promising voices in the genre—one who isn’t afraid to turn personal struggles into powerful songs that resonate far beyond country’s typical borders. Writing from the Heart For Wyatt Flores, songwriting isn’t just about crafting melodies—it’s about making sense of life’s hardest moments. His music doesn’t rely on overused country tropes of backroads and beer cans. Instead, it leans into something far more powerful: raw, unfiltered emotion. He takes real experiences, often painful and deeply personal, and turns them into songs that feel like intimate conversations rather than polished performances. His ability to capture vulnerability so authentically is what has drawn such a dedicated audience, particularly among those who find solace in his lyrics. Growing up in Stillwater, Oklahoma, Flores was surrounded by country, folk, and Red Dirt influences, but he was never just a product of the sounds around him—he was a storyteller in the making. His music carries the weight of lived experience, and it’s clear that he approaches songwriting as a form of catharsis. Unlike many emerging artists who focus on radio-friendly hooks, Flores allows his lyrics to lead, often prioritizing depth and emotional connection over commercial appeal… 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

Maverick Magazine takes a look at the instruments and accessories that enable country music headliners perform their best for their fans at festivals like C2C From the rich tones of the Martin D-28 to the versatility of the Kyser Quick-Change Capo, country music’s finest rely on top-tier instruments and accessories to shape their sound. Featuring gear used by artists like Dierks Bentley, Cody Johnson, and Lainey Wilson, this guide explores the must-have instruments that define modern country music—whether on stage, in the studio, or at festivals like C2C. Dierks Bentley’s Martin D-28, D-35 The Martin D-28 is an iconic acoustic guitar, renowned for its warm, balanced tone and deep resonance. With a solid spruce top, rosewood back and sides, and a dreadnought body, it delivers rich lows and sparkling highs, making it perfect for country, folk, and bluegrass. Seen in the image being played by Dierks Bentley, the D-28’s classic sound and reliability make it a go-to for professional musicians. Its timeless design and powerful projection ensure it stands out on stage, whether for intimate performances or large arena shows. Fiddlerman Master Violin The Fiddlerman Master Violin Outfit is a top-tier choice for intermediate and advanced players, offering a warm, resonant tone ideal for country music. Built with a hand-carved spruce top and flamed maple back, it provides rich projection, essential for cutting through a live band mix. Its smooth playability and balanced sound make it a favorite among fiddlers, perfect for high-energy country solos. Fiddles, violins, are commonly found in C2C bands and festival lineups, this violin blends professional quality with affordability, making it a go-to for touring and studio musicians alike. Cody Johnson’s Gibson J-45 Cody Johnson’s J-45, featured on the cover of ‘Gotta Be Me’ and in many live performances, delivers the rich, balanced sound that defines country and Americana music. With a solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a classic sunburst finish, the J-45 offers deep lows, clear mids, and a warm, resonant high end. Aside from the J-45, Cody Johnson also uses one of pieces such as the Gretsch G9241 Alligator Mahogany Round Neck Acoustic Electric Resonator – 2-color Sunburst, Padauk Fingerboard specifically for his #1 single “The Painter” and has thus far only played it live for that song, as seen at the 2023 CMA Awards. Richwood RMB-906 6-String Banjo The Richwood RMB-906 6-String Banjo is a perfect crossover instrument for guitarists looking to add a twangy, bluegrass-inspired sound to their repertoire. With a mahogany resonator and removable flange, it delivers warm, punchy tones that fit seamlessly into country, folk, and Americana music. Its guitar-style tuning makes it easy to transition from six-string to banjo, making it a likely addition to C2C festival lineups and touring bands. Ideal for players who want the classic banjo sound without learning traditional tuning, it’s a standout for stage and studio alike. Lainey Wilson’s Kyser Quick-Change Capo The Kyser Quick-Change Capo is a must-have for guitarists, offering effortless key changes with a simple squeeze. Its durable, lightweight design and strong spring tension ensure a firm grip without buzzing or detuning the strings. A go-to addition for Lainey Wilson’s guitar, this capo can often be seen on her Instagram, helping her seamlessly shift between keys during performances. Perfect for country, folk, and rock musicians, the Kyser is a reliable, easy-to-use tool that enhances any guitarist’s setup, whether on stage or in the studio. 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

How did you get into country music? I have always listened to country music—it’s the biggest genre in Ireland. Growing up, it was everywhere, from shops to petrol stations. I was exposed to different genres through my brothers and babysitters, but country was the one we all agreed on. At 16, I planned to take a year out to write an EP, and the songs I naturally wrote were all country. It wasn’t a conscious decision; it was just what I did. Even as a child, I’d take my pony into the mountains behind our house and sing country songs to the beat of her hooves. It has always been part of me. Over time, I realised that country music allows for deep emotional expression, and that’s what drew me in even more. What influences your songwriting? My songs come from personal experiences, emotions, and observations. I love storytelling, and country music lends itself perfectly to that. Sometimes I write from my own perspective, other times I draw from people around me or stories that inspire me. I enjoy playing with lyrics, making them relatable yet unique, sometimes leaning towards more silly, goofy, girly, rock’n’roll type country. There’s something special about hearing someone say a song of mine spoke to them in a meaningful way. I also take inspiration from everyday life—the people I meet, conversations I have, and places I visit. I like keeping it fresh. I like keeping myself on my toes What are some of your career highlights so far? There have been so many incredible moments. Performing on major stages, releasing albums, and connecting with fans worldwide are all huge achievements. But some of my biggest highlights were things I never even dreamed of. I try not to hyper-focus on specific goals because some of the best things that have happened in my career weren’t planned. Just working hard, having fun, and staying open to opportunities has kept me in the industry for 14 years. A couple highlights that I must mention are performing for the Dalai Lama, or in a stadium to 83,000 people at a sports game, but honestly, I cherish every moment with every fan and every gig – it’s unique. How do you balance your personal life and music career? It’s not always easy, but I try to keep a good balance. My personal goals are simple—I want a home, some land, horses, and to teach my nieces to ride. Giving my family the life they deserve is important to me. At the same time, I want to keep making music and pushing myself further. I think the key is to stay grounded and not let the industry consume you entirely. It’s important to take breaks and enjoy life outside of music. Family and close friends play a huge role in keeping me grounded. No matter how busy I get, I make sure to take time for them and for myself… 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

The Castellows’ Place They Call Home is a heartfelt country ballad blending nostalgia, harmonies, and timeless storytelling with Flatland Cavalry’s signature sound As the country music landscape continues to evolve, The Castellows have emerged as one of the most compelling voices in the revival of traditional country harmonies. Their rise to prominence has been marked by their ability to seamlessly blend contemporary storytelling with the rich musical traditions of the American South. Rooted in a deep appreciation for bluegrass, gospel, and folk influences, the trio of sisters has carved out a distinctive sound that sets them apart in a genre that often straddles the line between modern innovation and time-honored authenticity. Their latest single, Place They Call Home, featuring Flatland Cavalry, is a stirring ode to nostalgia, identity, and the deep emotional pull of home. The song encapsulates the universal longing for familiarity and belonging, weaving evocative imagery with haunting harmonies that linger long after the music fades. More than just a collaboration, this track is a meeting of kindred spirits—both The Castellows and Flatland Cavalry are champions of organic, roots-driven country music that prioritizes emotional sincerity over commercial polish. A Song Steeped in Country Tradition At its core, Place They Call Home is a masterclass in country storytelling, weaving together themes of longing, roots, and the idea that home is more than just a place—it’s a feeling. The song’s lyrics evoke vivid imagery of small-town life, front porches, and landscapes that hold memories. Lines like “Ain’t nothing like the sound of the river running slow / It’s the only place my heart’s ever known” paint a picture that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable to country music fans. The sense of home, as depicted in the song, is not just about the physical space but the emotional and spiritual connection to a place that defines one’s identity. Beyond its lyrical depth, the song’s structure and musical arrangement amplify its themes. The interplay between The Castellows’ harmonies and Cordero’s weathered vocals creates a dynamic push and pull, mirroring the internal conflict of wanting to explore the world while feeling the magnetic pull of home. The steel guitar swells subtly throughout, providing a melancholic yet comforting undertone, reinforcing the sentiment of longing that runs through the song. The pacing of the track is deliberate, allowing each verse to unfold naturally, giving listeners time to absorb the weight of the lyrics. The acoustic strumming serves as a steady heartbeat, grounding the song in a simplicity that highlights the sincerity of its message. There’s an intimacy to the recording that makes it feel as though the listener is sitting on a porch with the artists, experiencing their story firsthand… 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

Dierks Bentley’s journey from honky-tonk rebel to country legend proves he’s still pickin’, grinnin’, and reinventin’ his sound. Maverick takes a look at Dierks Bentley’s country music journey Few artists in modern country music have demonstrated the longevity, versatility, and artistry of Dierks Bentley. Since bursting onto the scene with What Was I Thinkin’ in 2003, Bentley has remained a constant presence in the genre, skillfully navigating the ever-changing landscape of country music while staying true to his roots. His career has been a masterclass in evolution—shifting from honky-tonk anthems to deeply personal storytelling, from mainstream radio hits to experimental bluegrass projects. At the heart of Bentley’s success is his ability to adapt without losing his authenticity. Over the years, he has explored various facets of country music, from the high-energy, rebellious spirit of his early albums to the introspective lyricism of Riser and Black. His 2023 album, Gravel & Gold, was a return to form, blending the best elements of his past work while embracing new sonic textures. And now, with his latest single, She Hate Me, Bentley once again proves that he is not content to stay in one lane. This feature takes a deep dive into Bentley’s musical journey—how he transformed from a young Nashville newcomer into a seasoned artist who continues to push boundaries. By examining his sound over the years, we can better understand how Bentley has managed to remain both relevant and respected in an industry that is constantly shifting. His story is not just one of success, but of reinvention, proving that country music’s past and future can coexist in the hands of the right artist. Early Career and Breakthrough Dierks Bentley made a bold entrance into the country music world in 2003 with his self-titled debut album, which quickly established him as one of Nashville’s most exciting new voices. The album’s lead single, What Was I Thinkin’, became an instant classic, rocketing to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. With its infectious energy, rebellious lyrics, and rollicking instrumentation, the song introduced Bentley’s signature blend of honky-tonk swagger and modern country appeal. His sound resonated with both traditionalists and a younger audience eager for something fresh yet familiar. Before his breakthrough, Bentley spent years immersed in the Nashville scene, trying to carve out his place in a highly competitive industry. Unlike some of his contemporaries who found quick success through talent competitions or industry connections, Bentley’s rise was fueled by relentless determination. He worked as a researcher at The Nashville Network (TNN), where he pored over country music archives and learned about the genre’s deep roots and evolution. At night, he honed his craft by performing in local honky-tonks, slowly building a reputation as a skilled songwriter and charismatic performer. Bentley’s early sound was deeply shaped by the artists he admired. The polished yet down-to-earth storytelling of George Strait, the neotraditional twang of Alan Jackson, and the boot-stomping energy of Brooks & Dunn all left an imprint on his music. But Bentley also had a passion for bluegrass, a genre that would later influence his sound in unexpected ways. He was particularly drawn to The Del McCoury Band, whose blend of raw instrumentation and high-lonesome harmonies would resurface in Bentley’s later albums. This dual appreciation for mainstream country and bluegrass set him apart, even in his earliest records… 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