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Kristian Bush solo tour

Kristian Bush of Sugarland set for UK solo tour

Kristian Bush, the multi-platinum selling, Grammy-winning singer and songwriter, is set to bring his solo act to the UK at the end of August, ahead of Sugarland’s much-anticipated relaunch this autumn. Bush, a founding member of the country duo, will embark on a seven-show UK tour starting on 24th August at The Long Road Festival in Leicestershire. The tour includes performances in London, Manchester and Liverpool, as well as a festival in Paisley, Scotland. Bush’s relationship with the UK music scene stretches back decades, beginning in 1994 when he opened for Melissa Etheridge at the iconic Royal Albert Hall. However, this tour marks his first UK performances since Sugarland headlined the C2C Festival in 2018. The year is proving to be one of the busiest of Bush’s career. In March, he made his Grand Ole Opry debut with his duo Billy Pilgrim. Additionally, he produced Megan Moroney’s second album, ‘Am I Okay?’, which received rave reviews upon its release. July also saw the release of an island remix of his hit single ‘Trailer Hitch’, featuring Boots Rock Reggae master Cas Haley. Following his UK stint, Bush is set to rejoin Sugarland for the co-headlining ‘Take Me Home’ arena tour with Little Big Town in the United States. The tour, named after the groups’ collaborative version of Phil Collins’ classic ‘Take Me Home’, is scheduled to launch in October in Greenville, South Carolina and conclude in December at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. The tour celebrates Little Big Town’s 25th anniversary as a group and marked 20 years of Sugarland, with The Castellows set to open for the shows.     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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russell dickerson bones ep

Russell Dickerson to release ‘Bones The EP’ on 30 August

Russell Dickerson, the multi-platinum selling artist renowned for his “top-notch vocals and earnest songwriting” (Billboard), is gearing up to release his highly anticipated project, ‘Bones The EP’. Set to drop on 30 August, this collection of tracks delves into the relationships and experiences that have shaped the country superstar into the artist he is today. Fans can pre-save the EP now. The EP, which shares its name with Dickerson’s latest single ‘Bones’, has been described as a “gothic love song masquerading as a country-pop banger” (PopCulture). The project offers listeners a journey through some of the most significant relationships in Dickerson’s life, all while maintaining his signature country-pop sound. Across five tracks, the EP explores themes of love in various forms, from late-night bonfires with friends to the bittersweet memories of past romances and the profound connections forged over a cold beer. A visualiser accompanying the release sets the tone for this deeply personal project and is available to watch now. Reflecting on the EP, Dickerson shared, “‘Bones The EP’ is a nostalgic collection of songs that take me back to some of the best times of my life. Those nights that you don’t want to end with the people you love most. Relationships that didn’t work out and hurt at the time, but turned out for the best. I hope people hear these songs and get transported to a place with people they love.” Russell Dickerson’s UK headline tour begins on 23 August in Belfast, leading up to the release of ‘Bones The EP’ a week later. Fans across the UK can look forward to experiencing these new songs live, just days before they become available 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 Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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Elles Bailey climbs the UK charts with ‘Beneath The Neon Glow’

Elles Bailey’s latest album, ‘Beneath The Neon Glow’, has made an impressive debut, peaking at #5 in the UK midweek Official Albums Chart. Competing against heavyweights like Taylor Swift and Eminem, this is a remarkable achievement for the independent artist. Bailey’s new album has already garnered significant praise, with Maverick giving the release a 10/10 review. Produced by Dan Weller, ‘Beneath The Neon Glow’ showcases Bailey’s powerful vocals and emotionally resonant songwriting, exploring themes of love, heartbreak and resilience. Despite the strong midweek performance, the battle is far from over. As Bailey faces competition from artists with massive streaming numbers, every single download and physical sale becomes crucial in securing her spot in the top 10. This is a pivotal moment in Bailey’s career, and her fans have the chance to make a real difference. Bailey’s supporters are rallying together, urging everyone to download or purchase the album before the chart closes tonight. Currently in the midst of an August in-store release tour, Bailey is set to embark on a 16-date UK headline tour this autumn, including a show at London’s Islington Assembly Hall on 2nd November. With glowing early reviews and a growing fanbase, Bailey’s rise in the music industry seems inevitable.     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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megan moroney album

Megan Moroney returns to tour the UK

One of country music’s biggest breakout stars in recent years, Megan Moroney, is set to return to the UK for a seven-date headline tour next month. The tour follows the release of her critically acclaimed sophomore album, Am I Okay?, which debuted at No. 9 on the Billboard 200 in July. Moroney, who is fast approaching 1.5 billion career streams, continues to make waves in the industry with her distinctive sound and compelling songwriting. The Georgia native has already set impressive records, including the biggest debut for a female country song in streams in the US with ‘No Caller ID’, which garnered 8.4 million global streams within its first week of release in January. The track, Moroney’s fastest streaming song to date, also made its mark on the Billboard Hot 100 and Spotify’s US Top 100 (all-genre). Fans were treated to a live acoustic version of the hit in June as part of her “Emo Cowgirl Live Sessions” series. Moroney’s musical journey began during her time studying accounting at the University of Georgia, where she started writing her own songs. Her debut album, Lucky, released last year, received widespread critical acclaim, featuring on best-of-the-year lists from prestigious outlets such as the New York Times, Rolling Stone (which named it the #1 country album of 2023), Billboard, and the Associated Press, who praised her as a “Gen Z songwriter with Taylor Swift-level acuity.” The album also included her breakout single, ‘Tennessee Orange’, which has been certified 2x Platinum and has amassed over 256 million streams on Spotify. The single became her first US #1 hit and was highlighted by the Los Angeles Times in their “100 best songs of 2023” list. Moroney’s achievements have not gone unnoticed. She was recently featured on Forbes’ ’30 Under 30′ list and MusicRow’s ‘Next Big Thing Class of 2024’. She has also earned nominations from the CMA, ACM, and Billboard Music Awards, and was featured at The GRAMMY Museum in Los Angeles as part of its prestigious SPOTLIGHT series. MEGAN MORONEY – UK 2024 TOUR DATES: Wed., 4 Sep – Cardiff, UK – Tramshed Thur., 5 Sep – Manchester, UK – O2 Ritz Sat., 7 Sep – Belfast, UK – Telegraph Building Mon., 9 Sep – Glasgow, UK – Barrowland Ballroom Tues., 10 Sep – Birmingham, UK – O2 Institute Thur., 12 Sep – Cambridge, UK – Junction Fri., 13 Sep – London, UK – O2 Forum Kentish Town Moroney’s UK tour promises to be a highlight of the country music calendar, with fans eagerly awaiting the chance to experience her live performances following the success of her recent releases.   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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little big town greatest hits

Little Big Town celebrate 25 years with UK tour and new album release

Country music fans in the UK are set for a special treat this September as Little Big Town, the GRAMMY® and CMA Award-winning quartet, mark their 25th anniversary with a headline tour across the nation. The band, made up of Karen Fairchild, Phillip Sweet, Kimberly Schlapman, and Jimi Westbrook, have built a strong following in the UK, and their return is highly anticipated. Little Big Town have performed at the Country to Country festival three times, including the inaugural event in 2013, as well as in 2016 and 2018, when they headlined to solid reviews. More recently, they played at major UK stadiums and London’s Hyde Park in 2022, supporting the Eagles at the British Summer Time festival. The upcoming UK tour will see them performing in Manchester, Bristol, Cambridge, Newcastle, London, Birmingham, and Glasgow. The tour dates span from 10th to 19th September. This tour coincides with the release of their ‘Greatest Hits’ album, which collects some of the band’s most well-known tracks. The album features songs like ‘Pontoon,’ ‘Boondocks,’ ‘Better Man,’ and the popular ‘Girl Crush.’ It reflects on the band’s journey over the past two decades. Speaking about the album, Karen Fairchild commented, “This ‘Greatest Hits’ album is all about reflecting on some of the songs that have meant the most to us throughout the band’s incredible journey. These last 25 years have been an absolute whirlwind, and we’re so thankful to have our fans along for the ride – this album is truly a love letter to them.” The album also includes a few special collaborations. Miranda Lambert joins the band on a new version of their 2010 hit ‘Little White Church,’ which retains the feel of the original while adding Lambert’s touch. Kelsea Ballerini features on the track ‘Shut Up Train,’ and Sugarland collaborates with the band on a cover of Phil Collins’ ‘Take Me Home,’ which they performed together at the 2024 CMT Music Awards. The ‘Greatest Hits’ album provides a broad overview of Little Big Town’s career, offering long-time fans a chance to revisit some of their favourite songs, while also serving as a good introduction for new listeners.   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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cmt giants

CMT to premiere ‘CMT Giants: Alabama’ on 15th August

Music fans across the US are in for a treat as CMT prepares to premiere “CMT Giants: Alabama,” a star-studded tribute to one of the most iconic country groups in history. The special airs this Thursday, 15th August, at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT, exclusively on CMT. This once-in-a-lifetime event will feature some of the biggest names in music paying homage to Alabama’s legendary career. Performances include Blake Shelton with Steve Wariner, Brad Paisley, Jamey Johnson, Jason Aldean, Little Big Town, Old Dominion, Pam Tillis with Lorrie Morgan, Riley Green, and Sam Hunt. The tribute will highlight some of Alabama’s most beloved hits, such as “Mountain Music,” “My Home’s in Alabama,” “Dixieland Delight,” and “Song of the South.” The performances were recorded live before an exclusive audience at the Fisher Center in Nashville. Alongside the live renditions, the special will include appearances from stars such as Evander Holyfield, Lionel Richie, Luke Bryan, Martina McBride, and Vince Gill, who will share personal stories and reflections on Alabama’s lasting impact on music. The programme will also feature rare archival footage and an exclusive interview with the band members themselves, offering insights into their storied career. Following its premiere, the special will be available on CMT VOD from Friday, 16th August, with several encore showings scheduled on CMT MUSIC and MTV LIVE throughout the month. Fans won’t want to miss this heartfelt celebration of Alabama’s contribution to the music world. “CMT Giants: Alabama” is executive produced by CMT’s Margaret Comeaux and Taillight’s Tom Forrest. The programme is overseen by Jackie Barba, Heather D. Graffagnino, Leslie Fram, Suzanne Bender, and Donna Duncan.     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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timbaland x universal

UMG Nashville partners with Timbaland’s Mosley Music

UMG Nashville has officially announced a strategic partnership with Mosley Music, the independent record label founded by the renowned producer, artist, and songwriter Timbaland. This collaboration aims to explore and nurture new talent, with a focus on bridging cultural and genre gaps within the music industry. “Over the past year, we have been working with Timbaland on the shared goal of developing great artists together as well as bridging the gaps in sound and culture in country music,” stated Cindy Mabe, UMG Nashville’s Chair and CEO. “I am so happy to finally announce our collaboration with Mosley Music on the heels of his prestigious induction into the Songwriters Hall of Fame. Timbaland is one of the most iconic producers, songwriters, and artists in the last 30 years, merging genres and opening the doors to magnify cultural impact across genres. Hailing from Norfolk, VA, Timbaland’s reach and impact have been felt across pop, hip-hop, and country music, including working with and bridging sounds for artists like Bubba Sparxxx, For King + Country, and Brad Paisley. Timbaland continues to push open the doors making innovative cultural impact by pushing boundaries, and I am excited to join forces in breaking barriers in country music.” Timbaland, who has been a prominent figure in the music industry for decades, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “I’ve been aligned with Universal Music Group the majority of my career as an artist and with my label Mosley Music, so UMG Nashville felt like the right place to partner for us in Country. I love their mission of taking chances on special artists to meet culture. Cindy, Chelsea, Charlene, Rob, Lori, Mike, and the rest of the team at UMG Nashville understand our vision and I know will be a great partner for us to continue to break artists.” This partnership is expected to yield exciting developments in the music industry, with both entities committed to discovering and promoting fresh talent that challenges traditional genre boundaries.   To read more exclusive articles and latest news, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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luke bryan mind of a country boy

Luke Bryan announces release date for ‘Mind Of A Country Boy’

Luke Bryan, the five-time Entertainer of the Year and country music superstar, has announced the release of his highly anticipated eighth studio album, ‘Mind Of A Country Boy’, set to drop on 27th September. The 14-track album, a product of the successful collaboration between father and son producers Jeff and Jody Stevens. To mark the announcement, Bryan has also released a new track, ‘Closing Time In California’, which coincides with his ongoing ‘Mind Of A Country Boy Tour’ in California, with concerts lined up in San Diego and Los Angeles this week. The album, ‘Mind Of A Country Boy’, comes after a four-year hiatus since Bryan’s last release, and it reflects a culmination of his life experiences and his 17-year career in the industry. Known for his love of country music, hunting, fishing, and his dedication to family, Bryan’s new album promises a mix of playful familiarity and sophisticated growth, with songs that resonate with his journey and the lifestyle of his fans. “I’ve been able to take my time and really compile songs for this album,” Bryan shared. “If it’s a song that I cut two or three years ago, and I still love it, and it still sounds fresh, then I feel like it’ll stand the test of time.” He added, “I think this album, as I’ve tried to do with all my albums, just has a little bit of everything. I do some things different vocally on this one that I’ve not done before. It’s about each song having its place and having its meaning. It’s trying not to be overly redundant with songs. I think that’s why I’ve been blessed to have a long career and what I feel like this album’s going to do.” Bryan’s passion for live performances remains undiminished. His legacy includes iconic concert events, from the massive ‘Spring Break’ shows on Florida beaches, which attracted over 200,000 fans, to his 15 years of Farm Tour and the popular Mexico destination concert experience ‘Crash My Playa,’ which will celebrate its ten-year anniversary next January. His headline tours have drawn over 14 million fans to date. “I’m still having a lot of fun in my concerts, and it’s still a big ole party. But I think as you grow older and mature, subject matters change and things that you can sing about change. But the love of trying to find the right song and a song that moves people is still at the forefront of what I want to do as an artist,” Bryan reflected. His current single, ‘Love You, Miss You, Mean It’, has swiftly climbed the charts, with industry expert Bob Oermann of Music Row describing the song as “written with panache and hooks a-plenty” and “hit bound.”   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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Dawn Landes brings ‘The Liberated Woman’s Songbook’ to the Barbican

On 7th September, the acclaimed singer-songwriter Dawn Landes will grace the Barbican in London with a live performance of her widely praised album, ‘The Liberated Woman’s Songbook’. This special event will feature esteemed guests, including folk legend Peggy Seeger, US indie-rock songwriter Skylar Gudasz, folk singer Lail Arad, Roots/R&B singer and actress Bridgette Amofah, violinist MaGuire and jazz-influenced singer-songwriter Sylvie Lewis. In an effort to amplify women’s voices, Landes released ‘The Liberated Woman’s Songbook’ in March during Women’s History Month. The album reimagines music from the women’s liberation movement, featuring songs originally published in ‘The Liberated Woman’s Songbook’ in 1971. Landes, alongside producer Josh Kaufman, has highlighted 11 musical stories from the canon of women’s activism spanning from 1830 to 1970. These narratives remain as pertinent today as ever, reflecting centuries of women’s struggle for their voices to be heard. “The project began while I was grounded at home during the pandemic and came across this intriguing book at a thrift shop,” said Landes. “With the overturn of Roe v. Wade rolling back women’s autonomy by 50 years, I turned to the songbook for inspiration. We’re suddenly back in 1971 all over again. I know we’re in for a long fight, and it helps to find solidarity where you can.” Josh Kaufman added, “Working with my old friend, Dawn Landes, on this collection of tunes was a real creative and collaborative gift. Many of these songs were already powerful in message but musically were never meant to travel beyond the picket line. I hope our work helps to amplify their message of freedom and equity anew.” ‘The Liberated Woman’s Songbook’ was recorded in Upstate New York at Little Pink and The Garage in Chapel Hill, NC, with Landes leading on vocals, guitar, and organ, and Kaufman steering guitars, keys, drums, bass, mandolin, and percussion. Landes enlisted an array of powerful voices to accentuate the album’s vital messages, including Emily Frantz of Watchhouse, Kanene Pipkin of The Lone Bellow, Rissi Palmer, Charly Lowry, Annie Nero, and Lizzy Ross of Violet Bell. In July 2023, Landes and Kaufman captivated audiences with a live performance of ‘The Liberated Woman’s Songbook’ at the Newport Folk Festival. Landes has established herself as one of music’s premier independent singer-songwriters, exploring a wide variety of styles from indie pop and folk to the French-language album “Mal Habillée.” She has collaborated with artists such as Justin Townes Earle, Will Oldham, and Norah Jones, and has shared the stage with Ray LaMontagne, Feist, Andrew Bird, Sufjan Stevens, Suzanne Vega, and other notable artists. Her work also includes numerous film and TV credits. Landes is currently based in Chapel Hill, NC.   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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folkonthecoastlineup

Folk Music Legends Headline Folk On The Coast Festival

World-renowned artists and rising stars from the Folk Music scene are set to perform at a new weekend-long festival at Floral Pavilion in Wirral from 13th to 15th September. The event promises to bring performances, workshops, exhibitions, and special talks, offering an immersive experience for attendees. The lineup includes an eclectic mix of performances from folk legends such as Martin Carthy, Martyn Joseph, Martin Simpson, The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican, Jackie Oates, and John Spiers. Other notable artists include Jon Wilks, Mikey Kenney, Gilmore & Roberts, Joe Topping, Maddie Morris, James Delarre & Saul Rose, and Jack Rutter. Folk music pioneer Martyn Joseph is set to host a songwriting talk alongside Q&As with Cole Stacey and Keith Wilson. Attendees will also have the chance to enjoy a performance by Mind The Step Appalachian Dancers and participate in DADGAD and poetry workshops. The inaugural festival will utilise the Floral Pavilion’s multiple performance spaces as well as local music venues such as Future Yard in Birkenhead. This approach aims to create a dynamic and engaging atmosphere throughout the event. Floral Pavilion’s Venue Manager, Pauline Campbell, expressed her excitement, saying, “We are so excited to see the venue come alive with Folk music. We’re proud to launch a festival that celebrates the genre and provides a welcome and immersive space. With a beautiful coastal backdrop and world-renowned artists, it is going to be a weekend to remember.” Programme manager, Tom Forth, added, “This September we’re thrilled to welcome some of the world’s finest artists to the first Folk On The Coast festival. Expect diversity from right across the genre; from the contemporary to the traditional, electrifying performances to intimate storytelling and Folk royalty to some of Merseyside’s most promising folk purveyors.” FULL WEEKEND LINE-UP Friday: Ceilidh – The Final Nails, Split Level (Phil Chisnall & Lynne Strange), John Walsh, Gerry Murphy, Keith Wilson, The Skylarks, Raphael Callaghan, Bread Hotel Workshop: An Introduction to DADGAD with Phil Chisnall Workshop: Sea Themed Poetry with Alison Schultz Special Event: Mind The Step Appalachian Dancers Saturday: Martin Carthy, Martyn Joseph, Cole Stacey, James Delarre & Saul Rose, Mikey Kenney, Katie Nicholas, Keith Wilson, The Far North Q&A: Keith Wilson Q&A: Cole Stacey Special Event: Martyn Joseph Songwriting Talk Sunday: Martin Simpson, Jackie Oates and John Spiers, Jon Wilks, Maddie Morris, The Bar-Steward Sons of Val Doonican, Gilmore & Roberts, Joe Topping, Jack Rutter, Douglas and Moss, Mark Pountney, Danny Bradley   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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