Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne, Author at STAGING Maverick

Lindsay Ell joins Shania Twain’s UK tour and reveals solo London show

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Lindsay Ell, the acclaimed singer, songwriter, philanthropist and TV host, is set to arrive in the UK and Ireland to embark on her latest venture as the lead guitarist for Shania Twain’s ‘Greatest Hits’ tour. The tour will conclude with Ell’s own solo performance at Omeara, a renowned venue in London celebrated for showcasing emerging talent. The ‘Greatest Hits’ tour commenced on 26th June and features performances across Ireland, Scotland, and England. Highlights include a special appearance in Glastonbury Festival’s coveted ‘legends slot’ on Sunday 30th June, and a major headline show at the British Summer Time festival in London’s Hyde Park on Sunday 7th July. Ell’s solo performance will take place on Monday 8th July, in London. The Canadian-American country-pop star aims to captivate fans and generate excitement for her forthcoming music releases. She will be supported by Northern Irish country singer, Abbie Mac. Expressing her excitement about the UK performances, Lindsay Ell stated: “It is such an honour to be playing guitar for Shania this year. Some of my guitar heroes have toured around the world with legends and it seems part unbelievable and part ‘completely pinch me’ that I would be able to tour with the reason I started singing in the first place. I am so grateful to be able to learn and work with the icon that I have looked up to for my entire career. I cannot wait to come back to the UK and play for the best fans. I have been working on so much new music and I cannot wait to play some of it at my solo show in London. It’s going to be such a memorable night!” New music from Lindsay Ell is expected soon – watch this space! Live show dates: Shania Twain ‘Greatest Hits’ Tour: 25 June | Musgrave Park, Cork – S Ireland 27 June | Belsonic Festival, Belfast – N Ireland 28 June | Malahide Castle & Gardens, Dublin – S Ireland 30 June | Glastonbury Festival – England 2 July | Stirling Summer Sessions, Stirling – Scotland 4 July | Lytham Festival, Lytham – England 5 July | Chepstow Summer Sessions, Chepstow – England 7 July | British Summer Time, Hyde Park, London – England Solo show: 8 July | Omeara, London – England 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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Van Morrison will release ‘New Arrangements and Duets’ in September

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Van Morrison has announced the release of his latest album, ‘New Arrangements and Duets’, scheduled to drop on 27th September. The album launch is accompanied by the release of its first single, ‘Choppin’ Wood’. ‘New Arrangements and Duets’ features a selection of unreleased material that Morrison has decided to share with his fans rather than leaving it stored away. This album is a small part of the extensive archive he plans to release in the future. The big band tracks on the album were recorded in 2014, with Paul Moran and Chris White handpicking the songs for their big band arrangements. The duets, recorded between 2018 and 2019, feature an impressive lineup of vocalists including Kurt Elling, Curtis Stigers, Joss Stone, and Willie Nelson. Notably, the Willie Nelson duets – ‘What’s Wrong With This Picture’ and ‘Steal My Heart Away’ – also highlight the guitar skills of Lukas Nelson from Promise Of The Real. The first single, ‘Choppin’ Wood’, offers a preview of the album’s sound, featuring Van Morrison’s distinctive vocals leading a vibrant big band performance. The song is a tribute to Morrison’s late father, with lyrics referencing Belfast, the Harland & Wolff shipyard, and his father’s love for jazz legends like Sidney Bechet, Louis Armstrong, and Jelly Roll Morton. The original version of this song appeared on Morrison’s 2002 album ‘Down The Road’. ‘New Arrangements and Duets’ is available for pre-order now and will be released in various formats, including black double-vinyl, orange double-vinyl, CD, and digital. Following a recent sold-out performance at the Royal Albert Hall, which earned a four-star review from The Independent, Van Morrison has several upcoming shows. Limited tickets are available for the following dates: JULY 4th – Dublin, Iveagh Gardens 7th – Gloucestershire, Westonbirt Arboretum Forest 11th – Belfast, Stormont Hotel OCTOBER 19th – Los Angeles, Orpheus Theatre The track list for ‘New Arrangements and Duets’ includes: ‘Ain’t Gonna Moan No More’ – with Kurt Elling ‘Broken Record’ – with Kurt Elling ‘Avalon of the Heart’ ‘Close Enough for Jazz’ – with Curtis Stigers ‘I’ll Be Your Lover Too’ ‘Only a Dream’ ‘So Quiet in Here’ ‘Someone Like You’ – with Joss Stone ‘The Beauty of the Days Gone By’ ‘The Master’s Eyes’ ‘So Complicated’ ‘Choppin’ Wood’ ‘You Gotta Make It Through the World’ ‘What’s Wrong With This Picture’ – with Willie Nelson ‘Steal My Heart Away’ – with Willie Nelson 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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Zach Bryan to release ‘The Great American Bar Scene’ on 4th July

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Country music sensation Zach Bryan is set to release his eagerly awaited new studio album, ‘The Great American Bar Scene,’ digitally on 4 July 2024. This 18-track collection will comprise 17 songs and a poem, promising a diverse array of new music for fans. The album, which includes the recently released singles ‘Pink Skies’ and ‘Purple Gas,’ will be available in all formats, with details on the physical release to follow soon. Fans can pre-order the album now. In an exciting promotional campaign, Zach has chosen 21 of his favourite bars across the U.S. and Canada where fans will have the unique opportunity to hear tracks from the forthcoming album before its official release. Zach shared this news with his followers on Instagram, generating buzz and anticipation. The selected venues, known as the Great American Bars, will start playing the new tracks from 24 June. The full list of these special locations includes: Brillobox, Pittsburgh, PA Eagan & Sons, Montclair, NJ Barnacle Bill’s, Rumson, NJ Blarney Stone Pub, Seattle, WA Charlotte’s Room, Toronto, ON Doobies Bar, Dewey, OK Fox & Locke, Franklin, TN Iron Horse Saloon, Oologah, OK Larry’s All American Cafe, Covington, KY McGlinchy’s, Philadelphia, PA Mercury Lounge, Tulsa, OK Million Dollar Cowboy Bar, Jackson, WY Old Mountain Tavern, Marlington, WV Polish Village, Berea, OH Rooster’s Sports Bar & Grill, Owasso, OK Sandy Hut, Portland, OR Saratoga Lanes, St. Louis, MO The Gold Mine Restaurant and Saloon, Idaho City, ID The San Fernando, Glendale, CA The Water Tank, Austin, TX Shannon Tavern, Boston, MA 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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Jenna Johnson signs exclusive publishing deal with Liz Rose Music

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Liz Rose Music has announced the signing of songwriter and artist Jenna Johnson to an exclusive publishing deal. The Meridian, Mississippi native has garnered significant attention in the music industry, earning a coveted spot on Nashville Briefing’s prestigious “25 Songwriters You Need to Know” list for 2024. Johnson’s impressive portfolio includes exclusive cuts with renowned artists such as Nate Smith, BigXThaPlug, David Guetta, Bebe Rexha, Ty Dolla $ign, A Boogie Wit Da Hoodie, The Band Camino, and Jared Benjamin. Kate Shirley, Creative Director at Liz Rose Music, expressed her excitement about the new addition, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Jenna into the Liz Rose Music family. She is a phenomenal songwriter, an incredible person, and such a valuable addition to our roster. Jenna has a very bright future in this industry, and we are honoured to work with her.” Jenna Johnson shared her enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, “I’ve admired Liz Rose as a writer and as a human for a long time, and her team at Liz Rose Music are the best people and top of their game. It’s my dream team, and I’m so grateful to be joining the fam.” Johnson is known for her versatile songwriting that spans across Country, Pop, Rock, R&B, and Alternative genres, bringing a unique and dynamic voice to the Liz Rose Music family. In addition to her solo success, she is one-third of the country trio The Breakers (formerly known as Track45), alongside her siblings Ben and KK Johnson. The trio recently opened for Tim McGraw on his ‘Standing Room Only’ tour. With such a diverse range of talents and a promising career ahead, Jenna Johnson’s signing marks a significant milestone for both the artist and Liz Rose 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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Morgan Wade returns with new single ‘Moth to a Flame’

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Morgan Wade has unveiled another glimpse into her forthcoming album ‘Obsessed’ with the release of her latest single, ‘Moth to a Flame’. Imbued with a sense of longing, ‘Moth to a Flame’ features a lilting acoustic guitar line, complemented by soulful lap steel and piano melodies. The song serves as an ode to the pursuit of dreamt-of love, placing Wade’s distinctive vocals at the forefront with a powerful yet gentle delivery. ‘Obsessed’, a 14-track collection, is entirely solo-written and stripped-down, highlighting Wade at her most raw and vulnerable. Produced by her touring guitarist Clint Wells, the album explores themes of longing for home, emotional reunions, and the intense preoccupation with a significant other. Wade’s lyrics delve into situations often considered unconventional by societal standards, showcasing her ability to write with compelling force. In ‘Obsessed’, Wade also undertakes a thorough examination of her personal journey, candidly addressing moments when she has been at fault. The album is set to be released on August 16th via Sony Music. It follows her acclaimed album’ Psychopath’, which was recognised as one of 2023’s best albums by The New York Times, Rolling Stone, and others. Following the conclusion of her headlining unplugged CROSSING STATE LINES world tour last month, Wade has joined Alanis Morissette’s TRIPLE MOON TOUR as an opening act. Sharing the stage with her musical icon and Joan Jett, Wade will continue to perform in arenas and amphitheatres across America this summer. Obsessed Tracklisting: Total Control Department Store Time to Love, Time to Kill Obsessed Juliet 2AM in London Hansel and Gretel Spin Reality Walked on Water (feat. Kesha) Halloween Crossing State Lines Moth to a Flame Deconstruction 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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Dylan Scott pays tribute to Louisiana on ‘I Owe You One’

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Dylan Scott has released his first new music since his deluxe album, ‘Livin’ My Best Life (Still)’, on 29 March. The new single, titled ‘I Owe You One’, is a heartfelt tribute to the small town in Louisiana that raised him. The song, penned by Morgan Wallen, Ernest K. Smith, Ashley Gorley, and producer Mark Holman, reflects on how Scott’s upbringing taught him valuable lessons about life, love, heartbreak, and redemption, shaping him into the person he is today. In the chorus, Scott expresses his gratitude with a humble “I owe you one!” “‘I Owe You One’ speaks right to me, the way I grew up, and the people I grew up with,” shared Scott. “I really connect with this song and think it’s a cool way to say thank you to everything and everyone who raised me.” ‘I Owe You One’ follows the release of Scott’s spring deluxe album, ‘Livin’ My Best Life (Still)’, a 26-song collection that achieved his highest chart position on the Billboard Top 200 upon its release. The album has already produced five Gold or Platinum singles, three No. 1 songs, and two radio charting singles. The expanded collection includes five highly-anticipated unreleased tracks, as well as fan favourites ‘Boys Back Home’ with Dylan Marlowe and ‘This Town’s Been Too Good To Us’, currently climbing the Country charts at No. 35 and No. 42 respectively on the Mediabase Country Airplay chart. The album also features the newly RIAA Platinum certified No. 1 hit ‘Can’t Have Mine (Find You A Girl)’ and the standout track ‘What He’ll Never Have’, which MusicRow described as a “surefire hit.” Scott continues to bring his electrifying live show to audiences as the direct support act for Cole Swindell on his Win The Night Tour, which will stop in Los Angeles in a few weeks and conclude in July. 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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Priscilla Block unleashes new EP, ‘PB2’

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Country music sensation Priscilla Block has set the stage for a thrilling new chapter in her career with the release of her latest EP, PB2, via Mercury Nashville. The highly anticipated EP features a blend of fan favourites and fresh tracks that showcase Block’s dynamic range as an artist. PB2 introduces listeners to Block’s current single, “Good On You,” which has already amassed over 14 million streams across various platforms. The EP also includes popular tracks like the gripping “Hey Jack,” alongside three new additions: “Apartment,” “Bad Guy,” and “Hell Out Of A Hometown.” Each song explores different facets of Block’s artistry, from vulnerable introspection to sassy anthems and heartfelt country storytelling. Reflecting on the EP, Priscilla Block shared her excitement, stating, “It’s been a while leading up to this next era for me and I’m so excited it’s finally here. I wanted to drop three songs that showcase three different sides of me as an artist.” Block’s co-writing contributions to four of the tracks underscore her role as both performer and storyteller, resonating deeply with her dedicated fanbase. Ahead of the EP release, Block treated fans to official lyric videos for “Apartment,” “Hell Out Of A Hometown,” and “Bad Guy,” providing an intimate visual backdrop to her evocative lyrics. In addition to her studio efforts, Priscilla Block recently wrapped up her successful headlining Hey Jack Tour, which saw sold-out shows across North America. Her international presence was also felt with performances at the C2C Music Festival in the United Kingdom and CMC Rocks Australia, solidifying her status as an “Artist to Watch” in country music. Known for her unfiltered songwriting and catchy melodies, Block has garnered acclaim for her honest approach and relatable narratives. Her previous hits, including “Just About Over You” and “You, Me, and Whiskey” (featuring Justin Moore), have resonated strongly with audiences, earning her critical praise and industry accolades. With PB2, Priscilla Block continues to redefine contemporary country music, blending elements of country pop and southern rock into what fans affectionately call “the Block Party sound.” As she embarks on this new musical journey, Block remains a compelling voice for her generation, promising more captivating stories and infectious tunes to come. For fans eager to experience PB2 and the latest from Priscilla Block, the EP is now available on all major streaming platforms. 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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Luke Bryan announces the 10th anniversary of Crash My Playa

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Promising another year of sun-soaked, music-filled memories, Luke Bryan has announced the 10th annual Crash My Playa event. The five-time Entertainer of the Year and American Idol judge will host the event from January 15-18, 2025, at the luxurious Moon Palace Cancún, a AAA Four Diamond Awarded resort. ACM-nominated Crash My Playa has delivered sold-out concert vacations featuring country’s biggest stars for a decade, and this year promises to be the most spectacular yet. Bryan will headline for two nights, with Jason Aldean returning to perform on the beach for the third time, and Kane Brown making his debut at Crash My Playa. Additional artists include Bailey Zimmerman, Dustin Lynch, Dylan Scott, Elle King, Jackson Dean, Nate Smith, Dasha, Ella Langley, Tucker Wetmore, and DJ Rock. Fans can look forward to special guests, daily pool parties, and exclusive Alumni perks designed to make the 10th-anniversary celebration unforgettable. “This is one of those pinch-me moments. The 10-year anniversary of a festival that I got to create along with the Playa Luna team,” said Luke Bryan. “It is hands down one of my favourite times on stage – period. To get to celebrate in the most beautiful setting with the most incredible Playa crashers, along with the most incredible artists – it doesn’t get much better. My artist friends always leave here wanting to come back. Gonna be the best Playa party yet.” “Reaching the ten-year milestone for Crash My Playa is a testament to the incredible community of fans and artists who come together each year,” said Brett Keber, Partner at Playa Luna. “We’re honoured to continue producing this one-of-a-kind vacation experience with Luke in Mexico.” 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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The Long Road announces day splits and more artists

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

The Long Road, the UK festival for country, Americana, and roots music, has unveiled the day splits and the third wave of artists for its highly anticipated summer event. Building on the excitement of previous announcements, the festival has detailed the performance schedule for its eclectic lineup. With tickets selling fast, the fifth edition of The Long Road promises to be its biggest yet, set to take place at Stanford Hall in Leicestershire from 23rd to 25th August 2024. The festival kicks off on Friday with a headlining performance by American country vocal group Chapel Hart. Returning by popular demand after a memorable appearance during Rissi Palmer’s Color Me Country takeover, Chapel Hart will headline the Interstate Stage. The opening night will also feature performances by alt-country band American Aquarium and hip-hop country group Gangstagrass, among others. Additionally, audiences can look forward to sets from folk duo Campbell Jensen and pop-rock artist Gina Larner, ensuring a dynamic start to the weekend. Saturday promises to be a highlight, with the Rhinestone Stage hosting a UK-exclusive headline show by the legendary Don McLean. Famous for timeless hits like “American Pie” and “Vincent (Starry, Starry Night),” McLean’s evocative storytelling and musical legacy resonate globally. The Saturday lineup is further enriched by Paula Cole and Brittney Spencer, known for her collaborations with Beyoncé. Meanwhile, the Interstate Stage will feature performances by The Red Clay Strays and Colbie Caillat, adding to the day’s diverse musical offerings. The festival culminates on Sunday with a high-energy performance by country-pop star Russell Dickerson. Known for his electrifying live shows and chart-topping hits, Dickerson will headline the Rhinestone Stage. Joining him is West Texas native Randall King. The Interstate Stage on Sunday will showcase folk-country group Flatland Cavalry and country artist Pokey LaFarge, while Ron Pope, renowned for his viral hit “A Drop in the Ocean,” will lead performances from The Front Porch Stage. Newly confirmed additions to the lineup include country singer Redferrin, whose song “Jack & Diet Coke” gained significant popularity on Spotify’s US Viral 50 Chart. Redferrin is noted for his collaborations with artists like Florida Georgia Line and Nelly. Also joining the Friday lineup are Georgia songwriter Jonah Kagen, Wood Burnt Red, Oscar Corney, Bailey Tomkinson & the Locals, and Alan Finlan. On Saturday, the festival will welcome Pearl Charles, who blends rock and country, alongside Charlotte Young. Ollie Hawkins has been added to the Sunday lineup. With an impressive array of talent across its stages, The Long Road 2024 is set to deliver an unforgettable experience in the heart of the English countryside. 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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Instrumental deep dive: Steel guitar

Leave a Comment / Exclusives / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

What is a steel guitar? Steel guitar is considered a staple of country music. The softer, lilting sound of a steel guitar can be found in country music throughout the 20th century and into the 21st. The steel guitar is usually played on the lap, by plucking the strings with one hand – as opposed to strumming – whilst running a steel bar over the strings with the other hand, hence the name. It’s known to create a smoother sound, with glissando (notes stepping up in half tones quickly) and vibrato (the ‘wobbly’ sound when a note is held), this unique tone makes it instantly recognisable to the ear and incredibly popular. Called the ‘frying pan’ in its early days, for its long neck and circular body shape, steel guitar is played sitting down. The history of steel guitar Believed to have been originally conceived by teenager Joseph Kekuku in his Lāʻie high school dormitory around 1889, the guitar hails – like Kekuku – hails from Hawaii. Hawaiian music dominated the US music charts in the 1910s. Following the fall of the Hawaiian Kingdom orchestrated by US settlers and colonialism, Hawaiians travelled to the US and took their culture, art and instruments with them. The economic hardship in Hawaii led many to leave behind their home islands in pursuit of better jobs and more security, many Hawaiians turned to music to preserve their heritage and language (which was being discouraged in Hawaii after the fall of the Kingdom). The steel guitar was an innovation on the six-string guitar, which itself was brought over to Hawaii by vaqueros (cowboys from Mexico and Spain), these Spanish-speaking cowboys taught locals to play the six-string guitar, all long before Kekuku’s invention came into being. Kekuku himself left Hawaii in 1904, setting up a shop in Seattle where he also taught local musicians about his instrument, the steel guitar. The sound of steel guitar gained popularity and by 1915, Hawaiian guitar music was outselling every other genre of music in the US. Of course, many Hawaiians moved to the Southern US. It was under the rule of segregation that the steel guitar met blues music. As native Hawaiians were banned from staying in whites-only spaces, performers – and other natives who played steel guitar – lived and worked in places where African-American, native and other immigrants also lived. The mixing together of cultures, through shared experience, sowed fertile ground for musical flowers to grow. It was here, in shared spaces that the steel guitar became a mainstay in blues, featured on tracks by Robert Johnson and Muddy Waters. Using the slide method of guitar playing, the steel guitar was quickly a mainstay in American music. Kekuku toured for many years, before settling down in Chicago and continuing to teach steel guitar. 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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