Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne, Author at STAGING Maverick

Lainey Wilson to be inducted to the Grand Ole Opry

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

GRAMMY ® Award-winning and prolific singer-songwriter Lainey Wilson was surprised by Opry member Reba McEntire tonight, live on NBC’s ‘The Voice’, with an invitation to become an official member of the Grand Ole Opry. The multi-platinum and reigning CMA and ACM Entertainer of the Year Louisiana native will be inducted into the Opry family on Friday 7th June. She made her Opry debut on Valentine’s Day 2020. Immediately following Wilson’s performance, McEntire walked to Wilson, saying, “Lainey, I am so proud of you. You did a wonderful job. I have heard that I have inspired you in what you have done so far, and I am thrilled to death if I have had anything to do with your career because you are blowing it up. I was so proud of you at the ACMs the other night and I couldn’t be more proud to be the one that helps you continue to bridge the gap between our generations. I’d like to be the person to invite you to become an official member of the Grand Ole Opry.” McEntire then presented Wilson with a gift commemorating the occasion, a custom-made belt buckle reading “Opry” and “Lainey” with “2024” emblazoned on its reverse side. “There is not a doubt in my mind that Lainey will make an impact on country music and the Grand Ole Opry for generations to come,” said Dan Rogers, Opry executive producer. “On the eve of the Opry’s 100th year, we’re so very excited to say ‘welcome home’ to one of country music’s great voices and personalities.” “I am so incredibly honored to be invited to become an official member of the Grand Ole Opry, and to have the legendary Reba McEntire surprise me during tonight’s show was such an unforgettable moment,” says Wilson. “This is something I’ve always dreamed of, ever since my first trip to the Opry when I was nine years old. I will never forget this moment!” 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, ERNEST and Ella Langley set to support Morgan Wallen at BST Hyde Park

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Morgan Wallen will be taking to the BST Hyde Park on 4th July, which promises to be his biggest UK performance to date. Today, it has been announced that he will share the stage with country superstars Riley Green, Ernest and Ella Langley – with even more artists to be announced. Riley Green will make his first UK performance on the Great Oak Stage at BST Hyde Park. Green gained popularity with his 2018 self-titled EP and hits like ‘There Was This Girl’ and ‘I Wish Grandpas Never Died’. His recent EP, Way Out Here, released in April, continues to build on his success. ERNEST, the singer/songwriter from Nashville, will also perform. Known for his unique verse style and multiple No. 1 hits, he has recently released his second album, ‘NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE’, following his acclaimed debut ‘FLOWER SHOPS (THE ALBUM)’. Ella Langley, from Alabama, brings a mix of rock and pop to her country music. Since featuring as Maverick Magazine’s One To Watch, Langley has gone from strength to strength, becoming one of the most prolific and sought after songwriters in Nashville as well as her continued chart success. With her debut EP ‘Excuse The Mess’ and upcoming debut album, Langley is set to join both Morgan Wallen and Riley Green on tour this year. Morgan Wallen expressed his excitement about returning to the UK after his visit last fall. Wallen has achieved 11 No. 1 hits and a popular world tour. His latest collaboration with Post Malone, ‘I Had Some Help’, has reached No. 2 on the UK charts. Wallen recently released the ‘Abbey Road Sessions’, featuring live recordings and a cover of Nothing But Thieves’ ‘Graveyard Whistling’. His third studio album, ‘One Thing At A Time’, dominated the Billboard 200 chart for 18 weeks and was the most-streamed album of the year on Spotify. With over 28 billion streams, hits like ‘Whiskey Glasses’, ‘More Than My Hometown’, and ‘7 Summers’ have solidified Wallen’s place in the music industry. His single ‘Last Night’ became the most-streamed song in the U.S. across Apple Music and Spotify and held the No. 1 spot on the Hot 100 for 16 weeks. BST Hyde Park promises to be a memorable event for country music fans with this impressive lineup. 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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Who won at the ACMs 2024?

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

The winners of the 59th Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards have been announced. The event, hosted by 16-time ACM Award-winner Reba McEntire, during the live broadcast, McEntire also announced her return as host for the 60th ACM Awards in 2025. The night’s top honour, Entertainer of the Year, was awarded to Lainey Wilson. Chris Stapleton led with four awards, followed by Lainey Wilson with three and Luke Combs and Jordan Davis with two each. The show featured 18 performances from 19 artists, along with collaborations and unexpected moments that captivated fans worldwide. Winner highlights: Lainey Wilson: First win for ACM Entertainer of the Year. Qualifies for the ACM Triple Crown Award. First woman to achieve the ACM Triple Crown Award in three years and first artist since The Chicks (1998-2000). Total ACM Awards count: 10. Chris Stapleton: Most awarded artist of the evening with four wins. Eighth win for ACM Album of the Year, making him the artist with the most wins in this category. Fourth win for ACM Male Artist of the Year. First win for ACM Artist-Songwriter of the Year. Total ACM Awards count: 20. Old Dominion: Seventh consecutive win for ACM Group of the Year, tying with Rascal Flatts for the most consecutive wins in the category. Total ACM Awards count: 9. New Artists: Megan Moroney, Nate Smith, and Tigirlily Gold secured their first ACM Awards in the New Artist categories. Jordan Davis won his first two ACM Awards with an artist and songwriter credit on the ACM Song of the Year, “Next Thing You Know”. Full List of Winners: Entertainer of the year: Lainey Wilson Female artist of the year: Lainey Wilson Male artist of the year: Chris Stapleton Duo of the year: Dan + Shay Group of the year: Old Dominion New female artist of the year: Megan Moroney New male artist of the year: Nate Smith New duo or group of the year: Tigirlily Gold Album of the year: ‘Higher’ – Chris Stapleton Single of the year: ‘Fast Car’ – Luke Combs Song of the year: ‘Next Thing You Know’ – Jordan Davis Visual media of the year: ‘Burn It Down’ – Parker McCollum Songwriter of the year: Jessie Jo Dillon Artist-songwriter of the year: Chris Stapleton Music event of the year: ‘Save Me’ – Jelly Roll (with Lainey Wilson) 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 Combs says there ‘Ain’t No Love In Oklahoma’

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Country music sensation and two-time CMA Entertainer of the Year, Luke Combs, has unveiled his latest single, ‘Ain’t No Love In Oklahoma’, set to feature on ‘Twisters: The Album’, a star-studded musical accompaniment to the upcoming film. Scheduled for release on July 19th, both the single and album promise an electrifying experience for fans. The adrenaline-fueled official video for the track, which includes a special appearance by NASCAR driver John Hunter Nemechek, is already generating excitement among Combs fans far and wide. Twisters, a modern-day installment inspired by the 1996 blockbuster, boasts a stellar cast including Daisy Edgar-Jones, Glen Powell, and Anthony Ramos. ‘Twisters: The Album’ will also showcase new offerings from a lineup of acclaimed artists such as Miranda Lambert, Jelly Roll and Shania Twain, among others. Combs, fresh from his highly successful World Tour, which made waves in the UK with two triumphant nights at London’s O2 Arena last October, has solidified his status as a global phenomenon. His tour, spanning 44 shows across three continents and 16 countries, stands as a record-breaking achievement in the realm of country music. The accolades continue to pour in for Combs, who leads the nominations at this year’s ACM Awards with an impressive eight nods. His memorable duet of ‘Fast Car’ with Tracy Chapman at the 66th Annual GRAMMY Awards further cemented his place in the music industry. Combs’ rendition of the song earned him Single of the Year at the 2023 CMA Awards, alongside Chapman’s Song of the Year win. 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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MP_Nobody's Born With A Broken Heart_Cover Art

MacKenzie Porter’s ‘Nobody’s Born With A Broken Heart’ makes waves

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Country sensation MacKenzie Porter has emerged triumphant with the release of her much-anticipated debut album, ‘Nobody’s Born With A Broken Heart’. The album has made an impressive debut, securing a spot in the Top 25 on the New Artist Albums chart within its first week. Garnering a staggering 83 million global streams upon its release, this ambitious 19-song project has not only dominated the iTunes Canadian Country chart but has also debuted in the Top 5 across all genres in Canada. Moreover, the track ‘Easy To Miss’ has found its place in Spotify’s Hot Country playlist, amplifying its reach to a broader audience. In response to the overwhelming support, Porter expresses her gratitude, stating, “This moment in my life I’ll truly never forget. I’m so thankful to every single person who has supported me and taken the time to listen to the album. Whether you’re healing from past heartbreak, in the thick of a difficult time right now, or building up courage to take a leap of faith, these songs are for you!” Porter’s momentum continued as she made her solo television debut on The Kelly Clarkson Show, delivering a captivating performance of ‘Pay Me Back In Change’, which received acclaim from Clarkson herself. Following this, Porter graced the revered stage of the Grand Ole Opry, enchanting audiences with renditions of album tracks including ‘Rough Ride For A Cowboy’, ‘Easy To Miss’, and ‘Pay Me Back In Change’. ‘Nobody’s Born With A Broken Heart’ not only marks an important moment in MacKenzie Porter’s career but also solidifies her position as a rising star in the global country music scene. 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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Even more stars join the CMA Fest lineup

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

The countdown to the Country Music Association (CMA) Fest is underway! The organisation has announced a lineup of additional performances and appearances set to grace multiple stages during the event. Scheduled from Thursday through Sunday, 6th to 9th June in downtown Nashville, the festival is gearing up to host over 300 acts across four days and nights. The nightly concerts at Nissan Stadium will kick off with Terri Clark, Craig Morgan, Josh Turner, and Gretchen Wilson, with the recent inclusion of Old Dominion joining the main stage lineup. Alongside these headliners, fans can expect special performances inside the stadium from artists including Jackson Dean, Shaboozey, and Brittney Spencer. Meanwhile, the venue’s Platform Stage will showcase talents such as Tanner Adell, Chapel Hart, Dasha, Wyatt Flores, Dylan Gossett, Dylan Marlowe, Puddin (K. Michelle), and Zach Top. Reyna Roberts is slated to commence Thursday night at Nissan Stadium with a rendition of the national anthem. A highlight of this year’s festivities will be the return of the Tennessee State University marching band, The Aristocrat of Bands, who will lead CMA Fest enthusiasts across the John Seigenthaler Pedestrian Bridge on Thursday morning. Moreover, additional acts are scheduled to grace various stages throughout the festival, including Sophia Scott performing the national anthem at the Chevy Riverfront Stage, and sets by Julia Cole, Allie Colleen, Shelby Darrall, Exile, Chris Housman, Willie Jones, Tiera Kennedy, Love and Theft, Dylan Marlowe, Matt Schuster, Sister Hazel, The Chattahoochies, and Louie TheSinger. In celebration of the 20th anniversary of her hit single ‘Redneck Woman’, Gretchen Wilson will host a Q&A session at the CMA Close Up Stage inside Fan Fair X. Additionally, the Spotlight Stage within Fan Fair X will feature a writer’s round hosted by Color Me Country, including Alyssia Dominguez, O.N.E The Duo, David Unlayao, and Michael B. Whit. The Canadian Country Music Association will also present a writer’s round featuring Robert Adam, Zach McPhee, and Trudy. Returning for a second year, Country Proud will grace the Hard Rock Stage, boasting performances from Denitia, Sonia Leigh, and The Kentucky Gen. 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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Post Malone and Morgan Wallen drop ‘I Had Some Help’

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Post Malone and Morgan Wallen have unveiled their highly anticipated new single ‘I Had Some Help’. The song, jointly penned by Post Malone, Morgan Wallen, Louis Bell, Ryan Vojtesak, Ashley Gorley, Ernest Keith Smith, Chandler Paul Walters, and Hoskins and produced by Louis Bell, Charlie Handsome and Hoskins (as co-producer). This release marks a significant milestone as it will be included in Post Malone’s inaugural full-length country album slated for release later this year. The announcement follows the duo’s remarkable performances at the 2024 Stagecoach Festival held in Indio, California. Post Malone took to the Stagecoach stage for the first time on Saturday, treating the audience to a set comprising country covers. The performance was punctuated by special appearances from renowned artists Brad Paisley, Sara Evans and Dwight Yoakam, adding to the excitement of the evening. Sunday saw Post Malone joining Morgan Wallen on stage for the live premiere of ‘I Had Some Help’, thrilling the sold-out crowd with their collaborative performance. With its release, ‘I Had Some Help’ is making waves across country, pop and hot AC radio stations, further solidifying the versatile appeal of both artists. 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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Lainey Wilson announces new album ‘Whirlwind’

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Multi-platinum GRAMMY®-award winning artist Lainey Wilson has unveiled her eagerly anticipated upcoming album, ‘Whirlwind’, set to be released globally on 23rd August 2024. Produced by the acclaimed GRAMMY® -award-winning producer, Jay Joyce, ‘Whirlwind’ offers a candid insight into Wilson’s life and travels across the globe while maintaining her distinctive musical style. With a blend of genres, the album promises to deliver a cohesive yet diverse selection of tracks, staying true to Wilson’s Western roots. Through her songwriting prowess, Wilson navigates through a range of emotions, crafting narratives that resonate with life’s various experiences. Reflecting on the announcement, Wilson expressed her excitement, stating, “I am so excited to finally announce Whirlwind. This album has been a long time coming, and I can’t wait for the world to have this body of work in their hands soon.” Wilson’s recent accolades include a GRAMMY® for Best Country Album, People’s Choice Award for Female Country Artist of The Year, and a CMT Music Award for Female Video of The Year. She has also made her touring debut in Australia earlier this year. Continuing her momentum, Wilson is set to perform at the Academy of Country Music Awards (ACM) later this month in Frisco, TX. 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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Elles Bailey releases ode to romance ‘Leave The Light On’

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

UK-based blues artist Elles Bailey has unveiled her latest single, ‘Leave The Light On’, hot on the heels of announcing her upcoming album and securing the ‘Vocalist Of The Year’ accolade at the recent UK Blues Awards. The track, the second release from her forthcoming album ‘Beneath The Neon Glow’, slated for 9th August, showcases Bailey’s genre-blending prowess. An infectious anthem driven by guitar melodies and brimming with emotion, ‘Leave The Light On’ captures Bailey at her zenith. Reflecting on the inspiration behind the song, Bailey shared, “You have to be a certain selfless type of person who supports another to realise their dreams and that’s exactly the type of person I married. So this is my autobiographical open and honest love letter to my husband.” The narrative behind the track stemmed from a personal experience when Bailey missed her train home from London, returning late at night consumed by guilt over her prolonged absence. However, upon arriving home, she found solace in the welcoming gesture of a light left on outside her house. This poignant moment served as the catalyst for ‘Leave The Light On’. ‘Beneath The Neon Glow’, Bailey’s upcoming album, is an amalgamation of British roots, Americana, and blues woven across ten tracks. Helmed by producer Dan Weller (known for his work with Enter Shikari) and recorded with Bailey’s proficient live band, the album delves into the multifaceted nature of love through candid lyricism. From heartbreak to the enduring bonds of friendship and romance, Bailey traverses the spectrum of human emotions with unflinching honesty, offering listeners an intimate glimpse into her journey. Asserting her commitment to a lasting career in music, Bailey remarked, “I might be new to some people, but I have been around for quite a long while. I’m not here for a flash-in-the-pan moment. I want a long-term career in music.” Expressing her passion for performing and her aspirations to reach wider audiences, Bailey is set to embark on a major UK headline tour later this year, including a performance at London’s Islington Assembly Hall on November 2nd. 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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Emo cowgirl Megan Moroney is back with a new album

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Country singer Megan Moroney has recently announced the upcoming release of her second album, ‘Am I Okay?’, set to debut on 12th July. The announcement of Moroney’s new album was made on social media. This revelation came shortly after the artist achieved the remarkable milestone of surpassing one billion total global streams across various platforms, fueled by the success of hits like ‘Tennessee Orange’. ‘Am I Okay?’ promises to build upon the success of ‘Lucky’, showcasing Moroney’s growth as both a songwriter and performer. Produced by her longtime collaborator Kristian Bush, the album delves into themes of heartbreak and personal introspection, reflecting Moroney’s distinctive style often dubbed as “the Emo Cowgirl”. Moroney’s recent performance at the Stagecoach Festival in California further solidified her status as a rising star in Country music. With a captivating set featuring chart-topping singles and newly released tracks, Moroney impressed audiences with her dynamic stage presence. Additionally, Moroney has garnered significant recognition in the music industry, emerging as the most-nominated female artist at the upcoming 2024 Academy of Country Music Awards. With six nominations to her name, including categories like Female Artist of the Year and Song of the Year for ‘Tennessee Orange’, Moroney’s talent continues to be celebrated on a grand scale. 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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