Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne, Author at STAGING Maverick

Lee Brice celebrates releases ‘Killed the Man’

Curb Records hitmaker, Lee Brice, takes a reflective look back at his life and how far he’s come in his latest release, ‘Killed the Man‘, out now. The track, written by Michael Whitworth, Troy Cartwright and Jared Conrad; and produced by Brice, Ben Glover and Jerrod Niemann, is the story of a man who takes stock of his life and reflects on the changes from who he was to who he is now with the help from the woman who made him a better man. The song’s themes also extend to anyone whose been faced with a call to change their lives and the evolution that comes alongside that change. Also out today via YouTube Premiere, is the cinematic official music video for ‘Killed the Man’ directed by Chase Lauer. Be sure to tune in on November 7th at 10am CT / 4pm GMT to Lee Brice’s YouTube channel, where he will host a special “behind the video” afterparty for fans to ask questions and get behind the scenes stories of recording ‘Killed the Man’ and its music video. “When I first heard this song, it made me look back at my own life – the man who I was, isn’t the man I am today. I think the message is something anyone can relate to as we all strive to grow through life and its challenges. For me, “Killed The Man” feels like an evolution -becoming who God intended me to be, leaning into family, faith, and something bigger than myself.” – Lee Brice LISTEN: ‘Killed the Man‘ WATCH: ‘Killed the Man’ Official Music Video This year, Lee has been releasing new tracks kicking off 2025 with the ode to vulnerable masculinity, ‘Cry’. The heartbreak anthem was then followed by ‘Said No Country Boy Ever’ where Brice calls on some of his famous friends (Jamey Johnson, Randy Houser, Jerrod Niemann, Dallas Davidson and Rob Hatch; aka The Traler Park) for a song that raises a glass to mama’s fried chicken, honest hard work and hunting season. Stay tuned for even more new music coming from Brice. For additional information on Lee Brice, including upcoming show dates and tickets, please visit LeeBrice.com.

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Platinum artist Atlus releases ‘Secondhand Smoke’

News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Platinum recording artist Atlus releases his BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville debut EP, Secondhand Smoke, today. The six-song collection marks the next chapter for the viral hitmaker whose career has grown from underground phenom to a billion-plus on-demand streams, four independent studio albums, a Platinum single, national touring, and millions of fans across social platforms. “The songs on Secondhand Smoke are more than just individual tracks; they are chapters from my life,” says Atlus. ”Each one tells a story that I’ve lived through and it’s my hope that they push somebody out there to keep fighting, dreaming, and that there is something in one of those chapters that helps them keep showing up.” Pulling back the curtain on his past to forge a new path forward, Secondhand Smoke sees Atlus writing on each track, confronting deeply personal themes, from a turbulent home life and his mother’s resilience, to his sister’s battle with addiction and his own journey with mental health. Listen to Secondhand Smoke HERE. His mother remains his biggest supporter, and much of the Secondhand Smoke EP pays tribute to her and hardworking women like her. The title track recalls how she never let circumstances define her, working long hours to make trailer and car payments, with cigarettes providing her one small comfort. “I didn’t care about secondhand smoke because I saw what she was going through. It was like therapy, and the glue that kept her held together.” Even listeners who have not had the same experience can relate to a parent leaning on something to make it through. “Baby Momma” continues that homage. The song flips its title into a triple entendre, a nod to the rap wordplay that shaped his style alongside country, pop, and rock. It even features a voice note from his mom singing a melody his grandfather wrote about him. “It’s a song my grandpa used to sing to me. My new music is really a tribute to them.” Family has always been his priority. His success has allowed him to retire his mom, but before music took off, the now 33-year-old juggled two truck-driving jobs, UPS shifts, and Uber rides to cover studio time. He wrote his first two albums behind the wheel, practicing vocals and uploading a new track or video to YouTube each week. His debut radio single, “Devil Ain’t Done,” impacts country radio this Monday, October 13. An instant fan favorite, infectious grooves and melodies highlight the former truck driver’s lyrics in “Devil Ain’t Done” as it reflects themes of self-doubt & perseverance. Grappling with relatable struggles that so many empathize with, this track expands on the singer-songwriter’s mission to make music that is both universal and uniquely him. Listen HERE / Watch Video HERE Atlus marked the release of Secondhand Smoke with a special Nashville preview performance at Cannery Hall last night to a capacity crowd.

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Janet Devlin's Houston - Maverick-country.com

Janet Devlin: “Houston, I got so many problems”

News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Janet Devlin embraces solitude in empowering new single ‘Houston’ Out July 18th, Ahead of highly-anticipated Deluxe Album ‘Not My First Emotional Rodeo’. Irish singer-songwriter Janet Devlin is making a powerful return with her explosive new single, ‘Houston’, out July 18th, igniting excitement for the upcoming deluxe edition of her critically acclaimed album, ‘Emotional Rodeo’. Now reimagined as ‘Not My First Emotional Rodeo,’ Janet unveils the first bonus track from the expanded release originally launched last November. ‘Houston’ blends Janet’s signature Nashville twang with an upbeat, sing-along anthem for people who enjoy their own company, showcasing that solitude isn’t loneliness, but liberation. “I wanted to write a song that would sum up the freedom I feel when I’m on my own. Be it solo horseback riding around the countryside or just anywhere far away from where the people are. As someone who has too many feelings and they used to bleed into most avenues of my life – emotional detachment, in this way, is actually a great and freeing thing. For some the concept of being in the vast unknown, away from civilisation is scary. The old me would’ve probably agreed. Now, for me it feels peaceful. I enjoy my own company, some may say a little too much. “I feel like super-rural living in a lot of ways is like being in outer-space. Both are on the fringes of civilisation and reality. ‘“Houston, I got so many problems” references the famous “Houston, we have a problem,” but it’s ironic. There is no mission control. Just me, alone. No panic. Just embracing relying on myself. “I wrote that line down after a therapy session. Something pretty awful had happened so I booked a one off slot with my therapist who I used to go see weekly. I went not because I felt like I needed it, more so because I felt like it was what I should do. After explaining what happened and how I was dealing with it, we both came to the conclusion that I was managing it all just fine on my own. I mean after how much money I’ve spent on getting better over the years, I’m glad it’s all paid off. It’s not that I’m hiding away from sharing things with others, it’s just that I don’t have to. “In the single version, I’ve opted for high octane, singalong fun. I wanted to hammer home the message that I’m having a good time out here on my own! I wanted something that I could hum along to when I’m out on my walks or riding around the countryside. “This song is for the people who enjoy their own space. Especially in this world where we’re connected 24/7. It’s a party song for those of us at our own solo parties. Yes, we may be a little bonkers – but who isn’t? We’re not lost, unless we’re trying to be. It’s not loneliness if we’re liberated. I promise you, we’re doing just fine!”

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Top Pick – Dan Jones

Exclusives, Top Picks / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Dan Jones – One More Whiskey for the Road, 9/10 Dan Jones’ One More Whiskey for the Road is a rich, heartfelt country rock EP that blends classic storytelling with a rugged, soulful edge. Drawing from influences like Luke Combs and Chris Stapleton, Jones crafts an authentic sound steeped in emotion and experience. The standout track, Forever Would Be Too Long, is a deeply moving ballad that showcases his storytelling prowess. With lyrics like “If forever’s all we’ve got, then I’d still need more time”, the song captures the raw ache of love that knows no bounds. His raspy yet melodic vocals deliver each line with sincerity, backed by warm piano and soaring guitar work that evoke a timeless, heartland feel. Across all four tracks, Jones demonstrates his ability to fuse personal experience with universal themes, making this EP a must-listen for fans of traditional and modern country alike. One More Whiskey for the Road proves that Jones is a voice worth hearing. 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

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Spotlight – Shanelle Rudrigo

Exclusives / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Maverick talks to Shanelle about her debut Americana song, Stay With Me, with music video now available! Stay With Me is such a heartfelt and deeply personal song. Can you share the story behind it and what inspired you to write it? As a 15-year-old, I’m at a stage where I have to start doing certain things independently. The feeling of growing up and finding my own path in life has made me realise how much easier everything feels with my mother’s guidance. Country music has a rich tradition of storytelling. The lyrics speak about nostalgia, love, and an unbreakable bond. How much of this song is drawn from your own experiences with your mother? Most of it. I often feel much happier and safer when I’m around her, which made it easy to write about. You have a very Americana country sound. How do you think ‘Stay With Me’ fits into that country ballad tradition? It’s a classic Americana country ballad because it’s rooted in my personal experiences, making it authentic. The instrumentation also stays true to that country sound. The video beautifully captures the emotions of the song, showing both memories and present moments between a mother and daughter. How involved were you in shaping the video’s concept? I really wanted to convey the deep love and bond between a mother and daughter. The fact that the actors in the video are a real-life mother and daughter makes it even more authentic and natural. For someone so young, you have the sound of an experienced artist. When did you first start singing? I started singing at the age of eight, and by the time I was 13, I was performing regularly in and around London, as well as at a few venues in the USA. What is the most emotional or memorable moment you’ve shared with your mother? While in New York last June, I had a small accident in Central Park and was rushed to the hospital. Having my mum there, holding my hand and telling me everything would be okay, gave me so much strength. Has your mother heard the song? What was her reaction? She loved it and told me that no matter what, she will always be there for me. What do you hope people take away from ‘Stay With Me’ when they listen to it or watch the video? I hope it makes them reminisce about their childhood memories and appreciate the bonds they have with their loved ones. Aside from your own music, you’re also known for covers. What has been your favorite song or artist to cover, and why? I really love playing ‘Take Me Home, Country Roads’ by John Denver. It’s such a classic, and everyone enjoys singing along. Do you see ‘Stay With Me’ as part of a larger theme in your music—songs that celebrate love, family, and nostalgia? Do you have plans to write more songs in this vein? I haven’t thought about it yet, but maybe in the future, I’ll want to write more songs along these lines. What’s next for you as an artist? Are you working on new music or planning a tour? I’m currently working on new music and planning to release my very first EP when I turn 16. For fans hearing your music for the first time, how would you describe your sound and style? My music is a fusion of country, heartfelt storytelling, and soulful, expressive vocals. What milestones would make you feel like you’ve ‘made it’? I love playing the piano and singing. The moment I perform on stage with a piano, surrounded by a crowd singing my song with me, that’s when I’ll feel like I’ve truly made it. If you could support any country artist, who would it be and why? While I was in Nashville for the Josie Music Awards in October, I met a few country artists who are now my friends. I’d love the opportunity to support all of them. Listen now here! 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

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C2C Festival will return in 2026

Live events / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

After another hugely successful festival this year with headliners; Lainey Wilson, Dierks Bentley and Cody Johnson, C2C is delighted to announce that it will return in March 2026 with early bird tickets available on Friday! C2C Festival will return on Friday 13th to Sunday 15th March 2026 to The O2, London, OVO Hydro, Glasgow and The SSE Arena, Belfast. Early bird tickets are available from Friday 21 March at 10am and can be purchased from www.gigsandtours.com, www.AXS.com and www.ticketmaster.co.uk. For Belfast tickets will be available via www.ticketmaster.ie. For Glasgow tickets will be available at www.gigsinscotland.com. Country to Country has become a staple in the UK festival calendar and has brought country music to the UK and Ireland masses, with tens of thousands of fans attending each year. The festival will bring three days of the best in country music and programming that fans have come to love and expect from the weekend, with performances from the world’s best country stars as well as emerging talent from Nashville, UK and Europe. The full line-up will be announced later in the year along with more exciting announcements and further news from the festival. 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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Jason Isbell Unveils Title Track from Upcoming Album ‘Foxes in the Snow’

News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Acclaimed singer-songwriter Jason Isbell has released ‘Foxes in the Snow’, the title track from his forthcoming solo acoustic album, set for release on 7 March. The album marks a return to a more intimate sound, showcasing Isbell’s mastery of storytelling and musicianship in a stripped-back setting. In support of the new record, Isbell embarks on his solo US tour, An Evening With Jason Isbell, kicking off on 15 February in Chicago. The tour includes two nights at New York City’s historic Beacon Theatre, a performance at LA’s renowned Disney Concert Hall, and a four-night residency at The Pinnacle in Nashville, among other dates. ‘Foxes in the Snow’ was recorded at the legendary Electric Lady Studios in New York City in October 2024. The entire album was laid down in just five days, using a single all-mahogany 1940 Martin 0-17 acoustic guitar. This minimalist approach allows Isbell’s intricate guitar work and evocative vocals to take centre stage, resulting in one of the most raw and powerful records of his career. This marks Isbell’s first new solo material since 2023’s award-winning ‘Weathervanes’, recorded with his band The 400 Unit. His breakthrough album, ‘Southeastern’, released in 2013, featured the modern classic ‘Cover Me Up’ and cemented his status as one of the most gifted songwriters of his generation. Over the past decade, he has won six GRAMMY Awards, making history as the first artist to win Best Americana Album three times. Beyond music, Isbell has recently expanded his artistic repertoire into acting, earning praise for his role alongside Leonardo DiCaprio in Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon. He is next set to appear in RZA’s upcoming film, One Spoon of Chocolate. With ‘Foxes in the Snow’, Jason Isbell reaffirms his place at the forefront of Americana music, delivering an album that is both a testament to his craft and a deeply personal artistic statement. Fans can listen to the newly released title track 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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Riley Green releases ‘Worst Way’ music video

News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Singer-songwriter Riley Green has released the official music video for ‘Worst Way’. From his latest album ‘Don’t Mind If I Do’, the track – written solely by Green— released in celebration of it’s Platinum record recognition, the passionate yet lighthearted video captures the nuances of being with someone special. With Green bringing forth an honest sense of yearning for the touch of his significant other, the video features different scenes of a romantic night out. Adding to a whirlwind year, Green is gearing up to hit the road next month on his extensive headlining ‘Damn Country Music Tour’ including major stops in Toronto, Nashville, New York, Boston and the UK, among many others. To purchase tickets, visit Green’s website and see below for a full list of tour dates. Riley Green live shows: March 5, 2025 – Houston, TX – 2025 Houston Rodeo March 8, 2025 – Statesboro, GA – GATAJAM Music Festival March 27, 2025 – Abbotsford, BC – Abbotsford Centre March 28, 2025 – Kelowna, BC – Prospera Place March 30, 2025 – Regina, SK – Brandt Centre April 3, 2025 – Kingston, ON – Slush Puppie Place April 4, 2025 – Toronto, ON – Coca-Cola Coliseum April 5, 2025 – London, ON – Budweiser Gardens April 10, 2025 – Florence, AZ – Country Thunder Arizona April 12, 2025 – Arlington, TX – American Rodeo April 26, 2025 – Ridgedale, MO – Bulls, Bands & Barrels May 1, 2025 – Athens, GA – Akins Ford Arena May 2, 2025 – Tampa, FL – Country Thunder Florida May 9, 2025 – Lake Charles, LA – Lake Charles Event Center May 10, 2025 – Tupelo, MS – Cadence Bank Arena May 16, 2025 – Gulf Shores, AL – Sand in My Boots 2025 May 24, 2025 – Norfolk, VA – Patriotic Festival May 29, 2025 – Youngstown, OH – Youngstown Foundation Amphitheatre May 30, 2025 – Cincinnati, OH – The Andrew J Brady Music Center May 31, 2025 – Detroit, MI – Michigan Lottery Amphitheatre at Freedom Hill June 1, 2025 – Lexington, KY – Railbird Music Festival June 6, 2025 – Clinton, IA – Tailgate N’ Tallboys Festival June 12, 2025 – Baltimore, MD – Pier Six Pavilion June 13, 2025 – Wilmington, NC – Live Oak Bank Pavilion June 14, 2025 – Raleigh, NC – Coastal Credit Union Music Park June 19, 2025 – Franklin, TN – FirstBank Amphitheater June 21, 2025 – Huntington, WV – Marshall Health Network Arena June 26, 2025 – Cadott, WI – Hoofbeat Country Fest June 27, 2025 – Brainerd, MI – Lakes Jam June 28, 2025 – Milwaukee, WI – Summerfest July 12, 2025 – Pendleton, OR – Pendleton Whisky Music Festival July 13, 2025 – Chicago, IL – Windy City Smokeout July 18, 2025 – Kettering, OH – Fraze Pavilion July 24, 2025 – New York, NY – The Rooftop at Pier 17 July 25, 2025 – Boston, MA – MGM Music Hall at Fenway July 26, 2025 – Gilford, NH – BankNH Pavilion August 1, 2025 – Bethlehem, PA – Musikfest August 9, 2025 – Birmingham, AL – Coca-Cola Amphitheater August 16, 2025 – Sainte-Hélène-de-Kamouraska, Canada – Lasso 2025 August 17, 2025 – Calgary, CA – Country Thunder Calgary August 21, 2025 – Bonner, MT – KettleHouse Amphitheater August 22, 2025 – Idaho Falls, ID – Mountain America Center August 23, 2025 – Nampa, ID – Ford Idaho Center Amphitheater August 25 , 2025 – Morrison, CO – Red Rocks Amphitheatre September 10, 2025 – London, UK – O2 Forum Kentish Town September 11, 2025 – London, UK – O2 Forum Kentish Town September 12, 2025 – London, UK – O2 Forum Kentish Town September 13 , 2025 – Birmingham UK – O2 Academy Birmingham September 15 , 2025 – Manchester, EN – O2 Victoria Warehouse September 16, 2025 – Glasgow, UK – O2 Academy Glasgow September 18 , 2025 – Belfast, UK – Waterfront Hall September 19, 2025 – Dublin, IE – Olympia Theatre October 4, 2025 – Winnsboro, SC – Field & Stream Festival 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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Mason Ramsey announces spring headlining tour

News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Mason Ramsey announces his new headlining tour Monster Energy Outbreak Tour Presents: Mason Ramsey. Ramsey is set to kick off the Spring run in Mount Vernon, KY on 6th April with special guest Halle Kearns and Harper Grace on select dates. Tickets for Monster Energy Outbreak Tour Presents: Mason Ramsey will go on sale to the public Friday 14th February, following the Artist Presale on 12th February. Last week, Ramsey released his new duet “Live Lonely” with Harper Grace following the premiere with US Weekly. Penned by Ramsey and Harper Grace with Michael De Lorenzis and Michael Paynter, the latest release marks the first from Ramsey of the new year. Ramsey had a whirlwind 2024 which wrapped up with the release of his debut full-length album I’ll See You In My Dream. Monster Energy Outbreak Presents: Mason Ramsey Tour Dates: * Harper Grace Support April 6 – Mount Vernon, KY April 8 – Des Moines, IA April 10 – Iowa City, IA April 11 – Rosemont, IL* April 12 – Grand Rapids, MI April 14 – Cleveland, OH April 15 – Buffalo, NY April 16 – Boston, MA* April 19 – New York, NY* April 22 – New Haven, CT April 23 – Ardmore, PA April 25 – Asbury Park, NJ* April 26 – Vienna, VA April 27 – Baltimore, MD April 29 – Memphis, TN April 30 – Kansas City, MO* May 2 – Denver, CO* May 3 – Colorado Springs, CO May 7 – Jackson, MS 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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Sierra Ferrell sweeps the GRAMMY Awards with four wins

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Sierra Ferrell entered the GRAMMY® Awards as the most-nominated roots and Americana artist, and emerged as the genre’s biggest winner. In a clean sweep of all her categories, the first-time nominee took home Best Americana Album, Best Americana Performance (‘American Dreaming’), Best American Roots Song (‘American Dreaming’) and Best American Roots Performance (‘Lighthouse’), all celebrating her multi chart-topping LP, ‘Trail of Flowers’. With four trophies, Ferrell is also the GRAMMYs’ second-most winner of 2025, behind only Kendrick Lamar’s five. Sierra Ferrell arrived at the GRAMMY® Awards wearing a custom dress encrusted with crystals, each holding its own unique properties of healing, loving and protection. The nautical-themed combination of pearls, iridescent fabrics and light-refracting prisms served as both a shield from darkness and a radiant reflection of Ferrell’s bright inner world and whimsical, enchanting spirit. Holding a powerful scepter that encased the scroll to her acceptance speech, the full outfit captured Sierra Ferrell in her true “fae” form. The concept was dreamt up by Ferrell and her creative director, Bobbi Rich, and taken to wardrobe stylist Cathy Hahn. They then enlisted the talents of Jeffrey Kelly Abess, who went above and beyond to bring it all to life. Days prior, Sierra Ferrell also gave a stunning GRAMMY® weekend performance of the Grateful Dead’s ‘It Must Have Been The Roses’. Singing alongside her friend Lukas Nelson, she honored the band during MusiCares’ Persons of The Year gala, which raised funds for wildfire recovery in Greater Los Angeles, and MusiCares’ year-round programs supporting music professionals in need. 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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