Exclusives Archives - Page 3 of 47

Morgan Wallen – The Sound of Now

From small-town ballads to streaming-era behemoths, Morgan Wallen is reshaping country music with sprawling albums, lyrical duality, and a reach few in the genre have ever matched. In a genre that has long wrestled with questions of authenticity, evolution, and mass appeal, Morgan Wallen’s career is a case study in how country music is not only surviving the streaming era, but redefining itself through it. Wallen’s trajectory from a small-town Tennessee upbringing to record-breaking global success reflects not only his own adaptability, but also a growing appetite for genre fusion, narrative depth, and emotional immediacy in modern country. His earliest musical influences were rooted in gospel and classic rock, shaped by a childhood steeped in church music and a family atmosphere that encouraged performance. Originally pursuing a career in baseball, Wallen pivoted toward music following a sports injury. His appearance on The Voice in 2014, though brief, exposed him to the mechanisms of mainstream entertainment and helped forge early industry connections. But the real transformation came later, through persistence and a careful cultivation of both sound and image. Finding early traction as a songwriter before becoming a headline act, Wallen’s storytelling sensibility was clear from the start. He has often cited lyrical depth as a guiding principle, inspired as much by the detail-rich songwriting of Eric Church as by the party-starting energy of Florida Georgia Line. That duality—introspective yet rowdy, grounded yet ambitious—would become his creative signature. While Wallen’s music has consistently drawn wide acclaim, his work ethic behind the scenes has also been pivotal. He is reportedly known for long writing sessions, extensive demo tracking, and a meticulous approach to pre-production. Producers close to him have noted his commitment to vocal takes and narrative sequencing, revealing a discipline that contrasts with his freewheeling public persona. This blend of creative freedom and studio rigour has helped him maintain both quality and quantity in his prolific output. Wallen’s 2018 debut album If I Know Me laid the groundwork. With singles like “Whiskey Glasses” and “Up Down,” he married party anthems to twangy hooks, shaping a persona that was equal parts everyman and outlaw. The album spoke to a younger demographic without alienating traditionalists. While its themes were familiar—heartache, small-town nights, and longnecks lifted high—the delivery was fresher, the phrasing more conversational. Critics were initially unsure how to categorise Wallen. Was he a bro-country holdover? A pop-country crossover? What became clear, however, was his knack for building songs that worked both acoustically and algorithmically. Tracks gained traction on playlists and social media, reflecting his growing relevance in a shifting media landscape. To read the full article, 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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Picture of Niko Moon - Photo by Matthew Berinato - Maverick

Niko Moon – Built for the Good Life

Exclusives / Editor

Fusing feel-good energy with country soul, Niko Moon has carved out a sound all his own. With a new chapter ahead, he’s doubling down on joy—without losing depth. Niko Moon strides onto the stage barefoot, a wide grin spreading across his face as he greets the crowd. It’s a signature move for the Texas-born, Georgia-raised artist, embodying the laid-back, feel-good ethos that permeates his music. From his breakout hit “Good Time” to his latest projects, Moon has consistently delivered a blend of country, pop, and R&B that invites listeners to find joy in the everyday. But beneath the sunny melodies lies a deeper narrative. Moon’s journey hasn’t been without its challenges, and he’s unafraid to share the highs and lows that have shaped his path. His commitment to positivity isn’t about ignoring life’s difficulties; it’s about choosing to focus on the light, even when the shadows loom large. Growing up in a working-class family, Moon was surrounded by music from an early age. His father, a truck driver, and his mother, a waitress, filled their home with the sounds of John Prine and Patty Griffin. These early influences instilled in him a love for storytelling and a belief in the power of music to connect and heal. Before stepping into the spotlight, Moon honed his craft behind the scenes, writing songs for artists like Zac Brown Band, Morgan Wallen, and Rascal Flatts. His transition to a solo career was a natural progression, allowing him to share his own voice and vision with the world. He’s also noted that these formative experiences gave him a rare insight into what makes a song resonate. From melody structure to lyrical themes, Moon’s time as a songwriter offered a behind-the-curtain view of the music industry—experience he’s taken with him into his solo career. His debut album, Good Time, introduced audiences to his unique sound—a fusion of country storytelling, pop hooks, and R&B rhythms. The title track became a chart-topping hit, resonating with fans seeking an escape from the stresses of daily life. Yet, Moon’s music isn’t just about having a good time. With his follow-up projects, including the albums Better Days and the EPs “These Are the Days” and “These Are the Nights,” he delves deeper into themes of resilience, mental health, and personal growth. Songs like “Keep A Light On” pay tribute to his family’s strength during tough times, while “Head Above the Water” offers a candid look at his struggles with anxiety and the importance of seeking help. Moon has described how songwriting became a kind of emotional compass for him—an outlet for both joy and vulnerability. He’s often reflected on how important it is to write songs that are honest about the human experience, explaining that while his upbeat sound draws listeners in, it’s the emotional transparency that makes them stay. This depth of feeling extends to his work offstage. Moon launched the Happy Cowboy Foundation in 2024 with the aim of destigmatising mental health issues, particularly in the music industry and rural communities. His decision to start the foundation stemmed from his own battles with anxiety and depression, and a belief that joy and struggle often coexist. He wants his music and outreach to serve as a bridge for those who feel isolated. To read the full article, 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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Mike Curb – The Man Behind the Music

Exclusives / Editor

From songwriter to record executive, Mike Curb has shaped country music history. In this candid Q&A, he reflects on his career, iconic artists, and the evolution of the genre. From his early days as a songwriter and producer to becoming one of Nashville’s most influential record executives, Mike Curb has left an indelible mark on country music. As the founder of Curb Records, he has nurtured some of the genre’s most iconic names, while consistently championing songwriters, producers, and musicians behind the scenes. Across decades, he has balanced tradition and innovation, supporting artists who respect country’s roots while pushing its boundaries. In this candid Q&A, Curb reflects on his career, the artists who helped define his label’s legacy, and how the industry has evolved in an age of streaming and global audiences. With a unique perspective shaped by personal experience in nearly every corner of the business, Curb offers insights into what makes country music resonate — and what lies ahead for the genre and his label. You’ve been a key figure in country music for decades. Looking back, what first drew you to the genre, and what made you believe in its potential? I was always excited about Nashville and particularly, Music Row. In fact, the first time I came to Nashville in 1964 I had a chance meeting with Sonny James, and he invited me to a recording session at The Quonset Hut. I watched him produce “You’re The Only World I Know”. I watched how he handled the microphones for the guitar, and how he was able to sing, play the guitar and produce the record at the same time was something that amazed me. Ironically, today we own the Quonset Hut, and I had the honour of bringing Sonny James there before he died to discuss the great history of that studio. Curb Records has supported some of the biggest names in country music. What do you look for in an artist when deciding to work with them? Talent. The greater the talent, the greater the singer. I look for the artist with the most talent and artists who have exceptional vocal abilities. The label has been home to legends like Hank Williams Jr., LeAnn Rimes, and Tim McGraw. Are there any signings or projects you consider personal milestones? Those three would be right at the top, and we’ve been blessed to have so many other great artists along the way as well. What was very special here was that Hank Williams Jr. recorded for us for 45 years, Tim McGraw for over 20 years and LeAnn Rimes for over 20 years, and we’re excited that LeAnn Rimes is releasing a new record before the end of 2025. To read the full article, 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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Encore – Noelle Toland

Exclusives / Editor

Noelle Toland brings retro charm and modern spirit to Nashville’s country scene. Here, she reflects on her musical roots, storytelling journey, and the songs that shaped her sound. With a voice steeped in classic country tradition and a knack for heartfelt storytelling, Noelle Toland has crafted a style that bridges eras. Originally from Oregon, she grew up singing James Taylor and Trisha Yearwood, honing her craft before making the move to Nashville. Known for blending a retro country feel with contemporary energy, Toland draws inspiration from childhood daydreams and the rich heritage of the genre. In this candid Q&A, she shares the songs, moments, and milestones that shaped her journey — from her earliest lullabies to her dreams of playing the Grand Ole Opry. What was the first song you ever learned all the words to? I think it was this little song called “Honey Bunny” that my mom would sing to me when I was a little girl to fall asleep. I believe she may have made it up herself! A song that always makes you think of home? “Walkaway Joe” by Trisha Yearwood always reminds me of home. I used to sing it around the house with a hairbrush microphone, performing for my mom who is also a huge fan of hers The album that made you want to pick up a guitar? Sweet Baby James by James Taylor. He was the first artist I ever saw in concert when I was seven years old. A live performance that changed the way you see music? James Taylor. The Judds. Britney Spears. I have a wide range of musical taste. One song you could play on repeat and never get tired of? James Taylor. The Judds. Britney Spears. I have a wide range of musical taste. An artist you’d love to share a stage with? Chris Stapleton! A song that reminds you of your childhood? “Don’t Take the Girl” by Tim McGraw Do you prefer writing songs in the morning or late at night? It depends. I tend to be a morning person and find I have the best ideas come to me when I first wake up, but I do love writing in the evening as well, when the inspiration strikes. A venue you dream of playing one day? The Grand Ole Opry!! To read the full article, 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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Top Pick – John Francis ‘One Man’s Meat is Another Man’s Poison’

Exclusives, News / Editor

John Francis’s One Man’s Meat Is Another Man’s Poison is a raw, soulful journey through love, loss, and identity. Across seven tracks, he pairs lyrical honesty with textured vocals to deliver a deeply personal and resonant album. John Francis delivers a raw, reflective 7-track album that explores emotional depth with honesty and grit. One Man’s Meat Is Another Man’s Poison invites listeners into his inner world, from the introspective “State of Flux” to the electric anguish of “Sleepless Nights.” “Tearing Me Apart” confronts heartbreak head-on, while “Lone Star” paints a poignant tale of youthful migration. The aptly titled “Romantic” offers fragile hope amid relational turmoil. Each song showcases Francis’s storytelling craft, pairing lyrical vulnerability with textured vocals. This is a soulful, unfiltered journey through love, loss, and identity—authentic and resonant throughout. Francis is, indeed, an open book. Download our latest issue for free 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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Top Pick – Little Lore’s “River Stories”

Exclusives, News / Editor

Blending personal memory with the fluid rhythms of nature, River Stories is a beautifully crafted six-track EP from Little Lore—an evocative journey through metaphor, emotion, and the quiet strength of British Americana. Little Lore’s River Stories is a stunning six-track EP that weaves personal memory with the shifting moods of water. From haunting reflections in “I Can Breathe Underwater” to the observational warmth of “Johnson’s Island,” Lore’s lyrics are rich with metaphor and meaning. Her voice, intimate and expressive, floats above beautifully restrained arrangements by producer Oli Deakin. This is authentic British Americana at its most poetic — contemplative, emotionally resonant, and quietly powerful. A compelling, cohesive collection that rewards repeated listening. You can listen to River Stories here Download our latest issue for free 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 – Luke Combs UK

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Certified by Luke Combs himself, The Luke Combs UK Tribute took Nashville by storm with a stellar performance at Category 10. When Luke Combs himself graced the stage of his own Nashville bar, Category 10, on April 15, the city buzzed with incredible energy. But the excitement didn’t end there; the following night saw “Luke Combs UK,” the world’s leading Luke Combs tribute act, take the spotlight, amplifying the energy and making an indelible mark on the locals and visitors alike. Having flown across the pond to participate in the grand kickoff week of Category 10, Luke Combs UK set a high standard for what a tribute act can entail. So convincing was the performance that passerby were drawn off the streets, flooding into the venue under the impression that Luke himself had taken to the stage for an encore performance. This mix-up speaks volumes of the tribute act’s near-flawless impersonation and ability to carry the torch lit by Combs the previous evening. The two acts met backstage after Luke’s show—a moment that not only symbolized a torch-passing but also highlighted a mutual respect and camaraderie that fans of both performers would appreciate. Witnessing this interaction, it was evident that Nashville, a city no stranger to star-studded encounters and heartwarming moments, had given its seal of approval. On the night of April 16, Luke Combs UK kicked off the performance with the thumping powerhouse track, “Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma,” setting a powerful tone for the evening. As the setlist unfolded, beloved hits like “Forever After All” and “Beer Never Broke My Heart” echoed through the sprawling venue, each song kindling cheers and sing-alongs amongst the growing crowd. The homage peaked with a spirited rendition of “When It Rains It Pours,” which not only got everyone on their feet but also pulled the night to its peak with the venue now crammed with over 2000 attendees all encapsulated by the familiar tunes. Luke Combs UK didn’t just sing; they narrated a story, replete with emotion and southern charm that are hallmarks of the real Luke’s allure. It was a night of celebration, not only of Combs’ music but also the shared cultural tapestry that his songs represent. The honesty of the bands educational professions back in England hit home with the Nashville crowd. They witnessed “5 normal guys who work in schools” on a huge stage in Nashville living a dream, displaying their version of one of the world’s biggest country artists in his own backyard. This event wasn’t merely a concert; it was an experience—a testament to the uniting power of country music and an unspoken bond between artist and audience, tribute and tributary. Category 10 has certainly kicked off with a show to remember, promising many more nights of joy and jubilation for Nashville’s music lovers. Luke Combs UK not only honored a music icon but also left an indelible mark on the heart of Music City. To read the full article, download our latest issue for free 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 – Janet Devlin

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Irish singer-songwriter Janet Devlin brings rural roots and fearless honesty to country music with a career defined by resilience, reinvention, and emotional truth, and hints at what is to come. Janet Devlin’s connection to country music runs deep – passed down through generations and shaped by lived experience, embedded in the rhythms of rural life and the quiet persistence of personal storytelling. With a background as textured as her lyrics, Devlin brings a unique sensibility to the genre. From her first songwriting efforts to her more recent studio work, there’s been a consistent thread of emotional honesty and melodic warmth that defines her sound. Her artistic journey hasn’t followed a linear path, but rather one marked by introspection and creative risk-taking. Devlin’s early start in the music industry, shaped by personal challenges and public scrutiny, forged a resilience that now informs her every project. With her 2024 album, Emotional Rodeo, Devlin delved deep into her roots, blending personal narratives with the rich tapestry of country music. She also hints at new music that is set to surprise fans later this year… Reflecting on how it all began, Devlin acknowledges that her path into country music was less a decision and more a natural evolution. “How did I get into it? It’s really bizarre. I mean, I’ve always listened to country music. It’s the biggest genre in Ireland.” That formative environment shaped her musical instincts from the start. Growing up in Gortin, a small village in Northern Ireland, country melodies were the soundtrack of her daily life. “You would go into the shop, there’s country music playing. You go to the petrol station, there’s country music playing. It’s just everywhere.” She recalls how that omnipresent soundscape wasn’t confined to public spaces. This pervasive presence of country tunes was more than background noise – it was a unifying force in her household. “I was exposed to a lot of genres growing up because of babysitters, my brothers and whatnot. But the one genre that we all agreed on was country.” Even before she officially entered the music industry, country music shaped her early artistic direction. She was writing her own songs as a teenager, and her instinctive pull toward the genre was unmistakable. “I was going to take a year out when I was 16 to do an EP, to go write an EP, and the music I was writing at the time when I was 15, 16 was all country. It wasn’t even a question. It was just what you did.” This early connection wasn’t only about the sound – it was about place and identity. Devlin’s surroundings offered a constant source of inspiration, both visually and emotionally. She vividly remembers the kind of solitary freedom that defined her childhood. “Even as a little girl, I would take my pony up into the mountains behind our house.” Years later, that rural spirit found a new expression in Emotional Rodeo, a record that stands as a testament to Devlin’s growth. Recorded at Nashville’s Blackbird Studio, the album showcases a blend of traditional country elements with modern sensibilities. Collaborating with industry stalwarts like Charlie McCoy and Rob McNelley, Devlin crafted a sound that’s both nostalgic and fresh. To read the full article, download our latest issue for free 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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Cover Story – Dylan Scott

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From small-town roots to country stardom, Dylan Scott opens up on fame, family, and his biggest album yet — Easy Does It is just the beginning. Dylan Scott doesn’t arrive with a roar. He doesn’t need to. While other artists blare headlines and chase virality, Scott has crafted one of the most quietly dominant careers in modern country music. With nearly five billion career streams, six No. 1 singles, and sold-out tours including his first arena headliners, the Louisiana native is a certified chart-topper. And yet, he’s never lost the aura of a grounded dreamer. “I still pinch myself every day I wake up,” Scott tells Maverick Magazine. “This life is all I dreamed as a kid. So to continue to stack number one songs is crazy to me. I get so caught up in the daily grind and touring that sometimes it’s almost like I’m numb to everything, but each time a song of mine hits number one, it takes me back to that same feeling I had as a kid when I dreamed of doing this.” That kid’s dream has become a wildly successful reality. Scott entered 2025 as the fourth most-played country artist in the format, thanks to back-to-back No. 1s — “Boys Back Home” with Dylan Marlowe and the Platinum-certified “This Town’s Been Too Good to Us.” His newest single, “What He’ll Never Have,” is already shaping up to be the biggest of his career, boasting over 300 million global streams and rising fast on the Country Airplay charts. Still, Scott isn’t one to coast on statistics. Instead, he moves with an energy rooted in family, humility and gratitude. His success isn’t wrapped in flash. It’s in the authenticity of a life lived close to the music — and even closer to home. This quiet confidence now fuels his third full-length album, Easy Does It, a collection that celebrates the calm earned through years of grinding, loving, and learning. “I’m not the 20-year-old kid anymore,” he says. “I’m 34 with kids and a wife, and I hope fans can see where I’m at in life. I just hope they see that I’m having fun and not too worried about things. Just enjoying life.” Before the platinum records and arena tours, Dylan Scott was just a small-town boy from Bastrop, Louisiana, chasing a sound that felt like home. Raised in a working-class family where hard work was the norm and music was a family affair, Scott’s roots are steeped in the grit and romance of the American South — a region where the back porch is as sacred as the stage. He grew up listening to country greats, but it was Keith Whitley who hit differently. “He’s my biggest inspiration,” Scott shares simply — a nod to the kind of emotional storytelling and vocal vulnerability Whitley mastered. That influence runs deep through Scott’s own catalogue, from his breakout ballads to the slow-burning sincerity of his latest work. To read the full article, download our latest issue for free 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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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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