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As part of its core mission, the Country Music Association celebrates excellence not just once a year, but all year long, throughout every corner of the Country Music industry. As the premier trade association for the genre, CMA honors the artists and creatives, broadcasters, touring professionals, and industry leaders whose contributions continue to shape and elevate Country Music worldwide. With the release of its 2025 awards ballot schedule—including key dates for the CMA Awards, Broadcast Awards, Touring Awards, International Awards, and Industry Honors—CMA underscores its ongoing commitment to recognizing the talent, dedication, and innovation that define the format. “Country Music runs on the passion and hard work of so many people—on stage, behind the scenes, and in communities around the world,” says Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer. “At CMA, we take that to heart. Our awards and industry honors aren’t just about recognition; they’re about celebrating the people who make this genre what it is. We’re proud to shine a light on the incredible creativity, dedication, and teamwork that moves Country Music forward every day.” Below is a snapshot of key dates, eligibility requirements, and voting processes across CMA’s annual awards cycle. CMA Awards Balloting Timeline — “The 59th Annual CMA Awards” The CMA Awards celebrate excellence in Country Music across 12 categories, honoring artists, musicians, songwriters, producers, mix engineers, and music video directors who made a significant impact on the genre during the eligibility period. Eligibility Period: July 1, 2024 – June 30, 2025 Voting Process: All CMA Professional voting members can vote in three rounds. As of today, 6,468 Professional members are eligible to vote. Nomination Ballot: Voters write in any artist or project they think deserves a nomination. If it fits the criteria for that category, it counts. Second Ballot: The top 20 vote-getters from the first round move forward (only the top 15 for Entertainer of the Year). Members can vote for up to five candidates in each category. Final Ballot: The top 5 from the second round become the official nominees—and CMA members vote one last time to choose the winners. Members can vote for one nominee in each category. Musician of the Year: Voting in all rounds remains limited to eligible voters in the following membership categories: Musician, Artist, Composer, and Producer/Engineer/Studio. Song of the Year: New this year, only eligible voters in the following membership categories can vote in the Nomination and Second Ballots: Composer, Artist, Musician, Producer/Engineer/Studio, and Publisher/PRO. All eligible voters can vote in the Final Ballot. All three rounds of voting will be conducted online by Election Services Corp. (ESC). To ensure ballot delivery, members are encouraged to add CMAAwardsVote@mg.electionservicescorp.com to their safe senders. All balloting is tabulated by the professional services organization, Deloitte.   Nomination Ballot: Emailed to eligible CMA members on Monday, July 7 Closes Wednesday, July 16 at 6:00 PM/CT Second Ballot: Emailed on Tuesday, Aug. 5 Closes Monday, Aug. 18 at 6:00 PM/CT Final nominees in each of the 12 categories will be announced later this summer. Final Ballot: Emailed on Wednesday, Oct. 1 Closes Wednesday, Oct. 29 at 6:00 PM/CT Membership Deadline & Information: To vote in all three rounds, prospective CMA members must apply for membership by Sunday, June 1 at CMAmember.com… To read more exclusive articles and latest news, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Maverick Magazine takes a look at Wyatt Flores’ unfiltered honesty in country music and how that translates through to his lyricism and relatability. Wyatt Flores is not just another rising country star—he’s a storyteller whose music feels deeply personal, yet universally relatable. From his breakout single Please Don’t Go to his recent album Welcome to the Plains, Flores has proven that songwriting is his superpower. His music doesn’t rely on flashy production or radio-ready hooks; instead, it thrives on raw emotion, vulnerability, and an ability to put words to feelings that many struggle to express. What sets Flores apart is his willingness to dive into some of life’s darkest and most difficult topics. He has been open about his struggles with mental health, using his music as both an outlet and a way to connect with others who are fighting similar battles. Songs like Running Out of Time and Half Life reflect on the weight of anxiety, the fear of not making the most of the time we have, and the internal struggles that often go unseen. Rather than shying away from these conversations, Flores leans into them, providing a soundtrack for those searching for understanding and solace. His breakout hit Please Don’t Go, which addresses themes of loss and emotional turmoil, resonated deeply with listeners, many of whom have shared personal stories about how the song helped them cope with grief and depression. The response to his music isn’t just about streaming numbers or chart success—it’s about the way people feel seen in his lyrics. In a genre that often thrives on themes of small-town nostalgia and honky-tonk nights, Flores’ introspective songwriting offers something refreshingly different: a space where pain, healing, and self-discovery are just as much a part of the story. In an industry where commercial appeal often overshadows authenticity, Flores has taken a different path. His music explores love, loss, mortality, and self-reflection without pretense, blending the tradition of country storytelling with a modern rawness that feels completely his own. This article examines what makes Wyatt Flores stand out in today’s country music world, how his songwriting connects so deeply with listeners, and why he’s become one of the most promising voices in the genre—one who isn’t afraid to turn personal struggles into powerful songs that resonate far beyond country’s typical borders. Writing from the Heart For Wyatt Flores, songwriting isn’t just about crafting melodies—it’s about making sense of life’s hardest moments. His music doesn’t rely on overused country tropes of backroads and beer cans. Instead, it leans into something far more powerful: raw, unfiltered emotion. He takes real experiences, often painful and deeply personal, and turns them into songs that feel like intimate conversations rather than polished performances. His ability to capture vulnerability so authentically is what has drawn such a dedicated audience, particularly among those who find solace in his lyrics. Growing up in Stillwater, Oklahoma, Flores was surrounded by country, folk, and Red Dirt influences, but he was never just a product of the sounds around him—he was a storyteller in the making. His music carries the weight of lived experience, and it’s clear that he approaches songwriting as a form of catharsis. Unlike many emerging artists who focus on radio-friendly hooks, Flores allows his lyrics to lead, often prioritizing depth and emotional connection over commercial appeal… To read more exclusive articles and latest news, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Maverick Magazine takes a look at the instruments and accessories that enable country music headliners perform their best for their fans at festivals like C2C From the rich tones of the Martin D-28 to the versatility of the Kyser Quick-Change Capo, country music’s finest rely on top-tier instruments and accessories to shape their sound. Featuring gear used by artists like Dierks Bentley, Cody Johnson, and Lainey Wilson, this guide explores the must-have instruments that define modern country music—whether on stage, in the studio, or at festivals like C2C. Dierks Bentley’s Martin D-28, D-35 The Martin D-28 is an iconic acoustic guitar, renowned for its warm, balanced tone and deep resonance. With a solid spruce top, rosewood back and sides, and a dreadnought body, it delivers rich lows and sparkling highs, making it perfect for country, folk, and bluegrass. Seen in the image being played by Dierks Bentley, the D-28’s classic sound and reliability make it a go-to for professional musicians. Its timeless design and powerful projection ensure it stands out on stage, whether for intimate performances or large arena shows. Fiddlerman Master Violin The Fiddlerman Master Violin Outfit is a top-tier choice for intermediate and advanced players, offering a warm, resonant tone ideal for country music. Built with a hand-carved spruce top and flamed maple back, it provides rich projection, essential for cutting through a live band mix. Its smooth playability and balanced sound make it a favorite among fiddlers, perfect for high-energy country solos. Fiddles, violins, are commonly found in C2C bands and festival lineups, this violin blends professional quality with affordability, making it a go-to for touring and studio musicians alike. Cody Johnson’s Gibson J-45 Cody Johnson’s J-45, featured on the cover of ‘Gotta Be Me’ and in many live performances, delivers the rich, balanced sound that defines country and Americana music. With a solid spruce top, mahogany back and sides, and a classic sunburst finish, the J-45 offers deep lows, clear mids, and a warm, resonant high end. Aside from the J-45, Cody Johnson also uses one of pieces such as the Gretsch G9241 Alligator Mahogany Round Neck Acoustic Electric Resonator – 2-color Sunburst, Padauk Fingerboard specifically for his #1 single “The Painter” and has thus far only played it live for that song, as seen at the 2023 CMA Awards. Richwood RMB-906 6-String Banjo The Richwood RMB-906 6-String Banjo is a perfect crossover instrument for guitarists looking to add a twangy, bluegrass-inspired sound to their repertoire. With a mahogany resonator and removable flange, it delivers warm, punchy tones that fit seamlessly into country, folk, and Americana music. Its guitar-style tuning makes it easy to transition from six-string to banjo, making it a likely addition to C2C festival lineups and touring bands. Ideal for players who want the classic banjo sound without learning traditional tuning, it’s a standout for stage and studio alike. Lainey Wilson’s Kyser Quick-Change Capo The Kyser Quick-Change Capo is a must-have for guitarists, offering effortless key changes with a simple squeeze. Its durable, lightweight design and strong spring tension ensure a firm grip without buzzing or detuning the strings. A go-to addition for Lainey Wilson’s guitar, this capo can often be seen on her Instagram, helping her seamlessly shift between keys during performances. Perfect for country, folk, and rock musicians, the Kyser is a reliable, easy-to-use tool that enhances any guitarist’s setup, whether on stage or in the studio. To read more exclusive articles and latest news, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

How did you get into country music? I have always listened to country music—it’s the biggest genre in Ireland. Growing up, it was everywhere, from shops to petrol stations. I was exposed to different genres through my brothers and babysitters, but country was the one we all agreed on. At 16, I planned to take a year out to write an EP, and the songs I naturally wrote were all country. It wasn’t a conscious decision; it was just what I did. Even as a child, I’d take my pony into the mountains behind our house and sing country songs to the beat of her hooves. It has always been part of me. Over time, I realised that country music allows for deep emotional expression, and that’s what drew me in even more. What influences your songwriting? My songs come from personal experiences, emotions, and observations. I love storytelling, and country music lends itself perfectly to that. Sometimes I write from my own perspective, other times I draw from people around me or stories that inspire me. I enjoy playing with lyrics, making them relatable yet unique, sometimes leaning towards more silly, goofy, girly, rock’n’roll type country. There’s something special about hearing someone say a song of mine spoke to them in a meaningful way. I also take inspiration from everyday life—the people I meet, conversations I have, and places I visit. I like keeping it fresh. I like keeping myself on my toes What are some of your career highlights so far? There have been so many incredible moments. Performing on major stages, releasing albums, and connecting with fans worldwide are all huge achievements. But some of my biggest highlights were things I never even dreamed of. I try not to hyper-focus on specific goals because some of the best things that have happened in my career weren’t planned. Just working hard, having fun, and staying open to opportunities has kept me in the industry for 14 years. A couple highlights that I must mention are performing for the Dalai Lama, or in a stadium to 83,000 people at a sports game, but honestly, I cherish every moment with every fan and every gig – it’s unique. How do you balance your personal life and music career? It’s not always easy, but I try to keep a good balance. My personal goals are simple—I want a home, some land, horses, and to teach my nieces to ride. Giving my family the life they deserve is important to me. At the same time, I want to keep making music and pushing myself further. I think the key is to stay grounded and not let the industry consume you entirely. It’s important to take breaks and enjoy life outside of music. Family and close friends play a huge role in keeping me grounded. No matter how busy I get, I make sure to take time for them and for myself… To read more exclusive articles and latest news, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

The Castellows’ Place They Call Home is a heartfelt country ballad blending nostalgia, harmonies, and timeless storytelling with Flatland Cavalry’s signature sound As the country music landscape continues to evolve, The Castellows have emerged as one of the most compelling voices in the revival of traditional country harmonies. Their rise to prominence has been marked by their ability to seamlessly blend contemporary storytelling with the rich musical traditions of the American South. Rooted in a deep appreciation for bluegrass, gospel, and folk influences, the trio of sisters has carved out a distinctive sound that sets them apart in a genre that often straddles the line between modern innovation and time-honored authenticity. Their latest single, Place They Call Home, featuring Flatland Cavalry, is a stirring ode to nostalgia, identity, and the deep emotional pull of home. The song encapsulates the universal longing for familiarity and belonging, weaving evocative imagery with haunting harmonies that linger long after the music fades. More than just a collaboration, this track is a meeting of kindred spirits—both The Castellows and Flatland Cavalry are champions of organic, roots-driven country music that prioritizes emotional sincerity over commercial polish. A Song Steeped in Country Tradition At its core, Place They Call Home is a masterclass in country storytelling, weaving together themes of longing, roots, and the idea that home is more than just a place—it’s a feeling. The song’s lyrics evoke vivid imagery of small-town life, front porches, and landscapes that hold memories. Lines like “Ain’t nothing like the sound of the river running slow / It’s the only place my heart’s ever known” paint a picture that feels both deeply personal and universally relatable to country music fans. The sense of home, as depicted in the song, is not just about the physical space but the emotional and spiritual connection to a place that defines one’s identity. Beyond its lyrical depth, the song’s structure and musical arrangement amplify its themes. The interplay between The Castellows’ harmonies and Cordero’s weathered vocals creates a dynamic push and pull, mirroring the internal conflict of wanting to explore the world while feeling the magnetic pull of home. The steel guitar swells subtly throughout, providing a melancholic yet comforting undertone, reinforcing the sentiment of longing that runs through the song. The pacing of the track is deliberate, allowing each verse to unfold naturally, giving listeners time to absorb the weight of the lyrics. The acoustic strumming serves as a steady heartbeat, grounding the song in a simplicity that highlights the sincerity of its message. There’s an intimacy to the recording that makes it feel as though the listener is sitting on a porch with the artists, experiencing their story firsthand… To read more exclusive articles and latest news, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Dierks Bentley’s journey from honky-tonk rebel to country legend proves he’s still pickin’, grinnin’, and reinventin’ his sound. Maverick takes a look at Dierks Bentley’s country music journey Few artists in modern country music have demonstrated the longevity, versatility, and artistry of Dierks Bentley. Since bursting onto the scene with What Was I Thinkin’ in 2003, Bentley has remained a constant presence in the genre, skillfully navigating the ever-changing landscape of country music while staying true to his roots. His career has been a masterclass in evolution—shifting from honky-tonk anthems to deeply personal storytelling, from mainstream radio hits to experimental bluegrass projects. At the heart of Bentley’s success is his ability to adapt without losing his authenticity. Over the years, he has explored various facets of country music, from the high-energy, rebellious spirit of his early albums to the introspective lyricism of Riser and Black. His 2023 album, Gravel & Gold, was a return to form, blending the best elements of his past work while embracing new sonic textures. And now, with his latest single, She Hate Me, Bentley once again proves that he is not content to stay in one lane. This feature takes a deep dive into Bentley’s musical journey—how he transformed from a young Nashville newcomer into a seasoned artist who continues to push boundaries. By examining his sound over the years, we can better understand how Bentley has managed to remain both relevant and respected in an industry that is constantly shifting. His story is not just one of success, but of reinvention, proving that country music’s past and future can coexist in the hands of the right artist. Early Career and Breakthrough Dierks Bentley made a bold entrance into the country music world in 2003 with his self-titled debut album, which quickly established him as one of Nashville’s most exciting new voices. The album’s lead single, What Was I Thinkin’, became an instant classic, rocketing to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. With its infectious energy, rebellious lyrics, and rollicking instrumentation, the song introduced Bentley’s signature blend of honky-tonk swagger and modern country appeal. His sound resonated with both traditionalists and a younger audience eager for something fresh yet familiar. Before his breakthrough, Bentley spent years immersed in the Nashville scene, trying to carve out his place in a highly competitive industry. Unlike some of his contemporaries who found quick success through talent competitions or industry connections, Bentley’s rise was fueled by relentless determination. He worked as a researcher at The Nashville Network (TNN), where he pored over country music archives and learned about the genre’s deep roots and evolution. At night, he honed his craft by performing in local honky-tonks, slowly building a reputation as a skilled songwriter and charismatic performer. Bentley’s early sound was deeply shaped by the artists he admired. The polished yet down-to-earth storytelling of George Strait, the neotraditional twang of Alan Jackson, and the boot-stomping energy of Brooks & Dunn all left an imprint on his music. But Bentley also had a passion for bluegrass, a genre that would later influence his sound in unexpected ways. He was particularly drawn to The Del McCoury Band, whose blend of raw instrumentation and high-lonesome harmonies would resurface in Bentley’s later albums. This dual appreciation for mainstream country and bluegrass set him apart, even in his earliest records… To read more exclusive articles and latest news, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

Maverick Magazine throws back to our 2022 highlight of Alyssa Bonagura for this issue’s Blast from the Past. Alyssa grew up on the road as she joined her parents on tour from a young age, she was destined for the stage herself.  Alyssa Bonagura, now in her early thirties, has had a long and varied career which pretty much began when she was just a tot, out on the road with her parents, Michael Bonagura and Kathie Baillie. Their band, Baillie & the Boys rose to fame in the late 80’s with a string of top 20 hits on the Billboard country charts. They had originally found work as backing singers for the likes of Randy Travis whilst Michael also penned the number one hit, ‘There’s No Stopping Your Heart’ for Marie Osmond, giving themselves a taste of every side the industry had to offer. During the height of their success as a band, Michael and Kathie also welcomed Alyssa into the world and they took her everywhere with them. “My earliest childhood memory is the sound of a diesel engine on a bus,” Alyssa reflects with a grin. “My parents used to get picked up here at our house, and we live out in the countryside. So the bus would come to the end of the driveway, and my mum would come wake me up at like midnight, she’d say, let’s go the buses are here. We’d walk down the driveway, get on the bus, and then we’d be in a different city. My whole life was like that and I just loved it.” As she travelled round the country with her mum and dad she knew she wanted to be out on stage performing too. “My earliest memory of singing, I was like two years old, and my mum was playing this big festival. I ran on stage because I wanted to sing and so she let me sing ‘Take Me Out to the Ballgame’ in front of 20,000 people at this festival and so I’ve always wanted to do it.” As well as her parents, Alyssa was in good company as her parents toured with the greats of the country genre, each one welcoming Alyssa into their lives and hearts as she grew up. At the time, Alyssa didn’t realise just what a wild and crazy life she led as a child. “We were hanging out with Vince Gill or Reba McEntire, Kenny Rogers, they were on the road with George Strait. To me, they were just other people that were singers and then when you start to get older, you start going to school, and people start saying to you, your parents are famous. That’s when you start to realise who your parents actually are and what kind of business it really is. My parents, they were never the kind of people that like ever boasted or bragged about anything they did. So I was brought up in a really humble environment…” 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

Diego Dibós  Diego Dibós is a Peruvian singer-songwriter and producer known for fusing country rock with Latin American influences. Born into a musical family, he started his career in the Peruvian pop-rock scene but has since incorporated Americana elements into his work, making him one of the country’s most interesting crossover artists in Peru.  His music features the hallmark elements of country—acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and deeply personal storytelling—while also incorporating Latin percussion and Spanish lyrics. Songs like Hasta el Final and Distinto evoke the emotional weight and melody-driven sensibilities of country ballads, making them feel right at home alongside the works of Nashville songwriters.  Diego’s ability to merge cultures has made him a standout in Peru’s independent music scene. By blending country’s melancholic yet hopeful spirit with the warmth of Latin rhythms, he has created a unique sound that resonates with both Peruvian and international audiences. His music proves that country storytelling transcends borders, adapting to different cultural landscapes while retaining its emotional core.    Lucho Quequezana  Lucho Quequezana is one of Peru’s most celebrated musicians, known for his ability to mix traditional Andean sounds with a wide range of genres, including country and folk. As a multi-instrumentalist, he has a deep understanding of world music and has often incorporated the storytelling elements of country into his compositions.  His album Kuntur features tracks with country-style guitar picking blended with charango and pan flute, instruments typical of Andean folk music. Though primarily known for his world fusion approach, Lucho’s music reflects the spirit of country music’s troubadours—wandering storytellers who sing of love, hardship, and the beauty of the land. His song Carnaval captures this essence, using vivid instrumentation and dynamic melodies to tell a story that is at once deeply Peruvian and universally relatable.  Lucho has performed worldwide, bridging cultural gaps with his music. His work demonstrates that while country music has a distinct sound, its soul—the art of storytelling—can take on many forms, adapting to different traditions and finding common ground in unexpected places.    Naïa Valdez  Naïa Valdez is one of the rising stars of Peru’s indie-folk scene, bringing a fresh, heartfelt voice to the country and Americana fusion movement. With a delicate yet powerful vocal style, her music is reminiscent of folk-country artists like Brandi Carlile and Kacey Musgraves.  Her song Revolución blends country’s acoustic warmth with Latin rhythms, featuring finger-picked guitar melodies and introspective lyrics about self-discovery and change. While her style leans more toward folk, the storytelling and emotive delivery in her music align with country music’s traditions. She often sings about personal struggles, love, and the search for meaning—universal themes that resonate deeply within the genre.  Naïa has garnered attention in Peru’s indie music circles and beyond, gaining recognition for her unique approach to blending country and folk with Latin American influences. As more artists like her emerge, Peru’s contribution to the global country music scene is likely to grow, proving that country music can find a home anywhere in the world.    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

Sir Elton John says he is “blown away” after scoring the 10th UK number one album of his career. Who Believes In Angels?, a collaboration with US country star Brandi Carlile, has topped the charts 52 years after the star’s first number one. “It seems quite extraordinary that my career has gone on so long,” Sir Elton told the BBC. “It always feels good to top a chart, no matter where it is. And with this album, I’m especially thrilled because I think it’s the finest album I’ve done for a long time.” Written and recorded over three weeks in late 2023, Who Believes In Angels? has received rave reviews from critics, who have called it “a gutsy, flamboyant tearjerker, external” and a “late-career high, external”. But the album had a difficult gestation, which was captured in a warts-and-all documentary posted on YouTube. Sir Elton was seen slamming down his headphones, shouting at his collaborators, ripping up song lyrics and threatening to quit. ‘Bad behaviour moments’ The star was “nervous” and “irritable”, partly because he was recovering from a hip replacement, he said, but also because he was working in a new way – writing live in the studio with Carlile, producer Andrew Watt and long-term lyricist Bernie Taupin. “It was an enormous challenge, getting those four people together,” he told the BBC. “And the challenge really was at my feet. “I was very nervous [because] I wanted the album to stand a certain way, but you can’t always guarantee it will. “I think my nerves and my insecurities and my doubt led to a few bad behaviour moments, which was just about frustrations within myself.” Once they had recorded the opening track, The Rose of Laura Nyro, “everything fell into place”, Sir Elton said. “In two and a half weeks, we recorded 14 songs and finished them.” The album’s release was delayed last year after an eye infection left the star with vision difficulties. Last week, he told the Times he could no longer watch his sons playing rugby. With the album finally released, there has been particular praise for the single Swing For The Fences, which Carlile conceived as rallying call for the LGBTQ community. “I’m a gay woman, Elton’s a gay man and we both have families, and our dreams have come true,” she told the NME, external. “I was thinking, wouldn’t it be cool to write an anthem for young gay kids out there that calls them into a bigger, more elegant, more fabulous life? Just like, ‘Go, go! Don’t let anything hold you back!’” “It’s a tough time out there for LGBTQ+ people,” Sir Elton told BBC News. “At the moment when Brandi wrote this lyric, she wanted to say, ‘Listen, fight for yourself. Be proud of yourself who you are, never be ashamed of who you are, and you will win through.’” In the UK, the album sold more than 15,000 copies in its first two days and was the week’s best-seller on vinyl. Sir Elton has now drawn level with Abba, Queen, Kylie Minogue and Michael Jackson on the list of artists with the most UK number one albums. The Beatles and Robbie Williams share the top spot, with 15 number ones apiece… 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

China  Tang Hanxiao (Terry Tang)  Tang Hanxiao, also known as Terry Tang, is one of the most recognized names in China’s emerging country music scene. A singer-songwriter with a deep appreciation for Western music, Tang seamlessly blends country, folk, and pop influences into his songwriting. His music often features acoustic guitar, harmonica, and lap steel, reminiscent of traditional American country, but his lyrics remain rooted in personal and cultural themes unique to China.  One of his most notable songs, Don’t Be Afraid, showcases his knack for emotional storytelling, a key component of country music. The song’s reflective lyrics on love and perseverance, paired with his warm, melodic voice, have drawn comparisons to John Mayer and Keith Urban. While still largely a niche artist in China, Tang has steadily built a loyal following, proving that country music has a place in the East.  Wu Tiao Ren  Wu Tiao Ren may not be a conventional country duo, but their music reflects the heart of country storytelling. Hailing from Guangdong, this folk band has carved a unique space in China’s alternative music scene, incorporating elements of country, bluegrass, and traditional Chinese ballads into their songs.  Their lyrics often depict working-class struggles, small-town life, and the hardships of everyday existence—topics deeply intertwined with country music’s storytelling traditions. Their 2015 album Canton Girl features songs with twangy acoustic guitar and harmonica, echoing the raw sincerity of Appalachian folk. Unlike mainstream Chinese pop, Wu Tiao Ren’s music is unpolished, deeply narrative, and nostalgic, much like the early country recordings from the American South.  Their ability to merge traditional Chinese sounds with Western folk influences has made them a standout act. Songs like A Tale of Lianjiang evoke the same sentimentality found in classic country music, despite being sung in Cantonese. As a result, they’ve garnered a dedicated fan base both in China and internationally, proving that country’s storytelling traditions transcend language barriers.  Liu Dongming (Liu 2)  Liu Dongming is a Beijing-based singer-songwriter who has been making waves with his unique fusion of country, folk, and rock. A gifted lyricist, Liu’s music often explores themes of nostalgia, love, and personal struggle—hallmarks of country songwriting. While not a mainstream name, he has gained recognition for his deeply emotional performances and poetic lyrics.  His song Old Town Road (not to be confused with the Lil Nas X hit) features classic country instrumentation, including a steady acoustic guitar rhythm and harmonica accents. But what sets Liu apart is his ability to blend Mandarin lyrics with the storytelling traditions of American country music. He cites Bob Dylan, Johnny Cash, and Kris Kristofferson as major influences, and his music reflects that same introspective, narrative-driven approach.  Liu Dongming has performed at major folk and indie festivals across China, bringing his blend of country-folk to audiences who may not yet be familiar with the genre. His success shows that while country music in China remains a niche market, its heartfelt storytelling resonates with listeners worldwide.  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