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Jason Aldean releases his new album HIGHWAY DESPERADO

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Jason Aldean has released his highly-anticipated 11th studio album, ‘HIGHWAY DESPERADO’, Aldean also recently wrapped a whirlwind headlining tour in Florida. ‘HIGHWAY DESPERADO’ includes fourteen total tracks, including Aldean’s breakthrough Hot 100 chart-topping single ‘Try That In A Small Town,’ which recently became his 28th career #1 single at Country radio. The album also features his next single, ‘Let Your Boys Be Country’ and three tracks co-written by Aldean. Aldean sat down with CBS Mornings last week from his Nashville-based studio, where he spoke about working on his 11th studio album including getting back in the writer’s chair, his sold-out ‘Highway Desperado Tour’, career milestones, and reaction to his new music.   ‘HIGHWAY DESPERADO’ follows Aldean’s double album ‘MACON’, ‘GEORGIA’, which earned Aldean his 27th career-charting #1 single, ‘Trouble With A Heartbreak,’ as well as a Billboard Music Award nomination for “Top Country Song” and awards from ACM, CMT, iHeart, and a GRAMMY nomination for ‘If I Didn’t Love You’ with Carrie Underwood. Since making his chart debut in 2005, the Georgia native has earned the most Top 10 songs on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart – more than any other artist – his “songs of small-town living, love and loss have resonated with a loyal fanbase” (Billboard) and have “vaulted him to the pinnacle of Country music success” (Atlanta Journal Constitution). ‘HIGHWAY DESPERADO’ Track Listing: 1. Tough Crowd – Kurt Allison, Marv Green, Tully Kennedy, Kelley Lovelace, Neil Thrasher 2. Let Your Boys Be Country – Jaron Boyer, Allison Veltz Cruz, Micah Wilshire 3. Knew You’d Come Around – Kurt Allison, Ben Hayslip, Tully Kennedy, John Morgan 4. Hungover In A Hotel – Jason Aldean, Kurt Allison, Tully Kennedy, David Lee Murphy, Neil Thrasher 5. Try That In A Small Town – Kurt Allison, Tully Kennedy, Kelley Lovelace, Neil Thrasher 6. Whiskey Drink – Kurt Allison, Jonathan Edwards, Tully Kennedy, John Morgan 7. Whose Rearview – Kurt Allison, Tully Kennedy, John Morgan, Lydia Vaughn 8. I’m Over You – Josh Phillips, Michael Tyler, Micah Wilshire 9. Rather Watch You – Jessi Alexander, Kurt Allison, Tully Kennedy, Kelley Lovelace, Neil Thrasher 10. Breakup Breakdown – Jason Aldean, Kurt Allison, Tully Kennedy, John Morgan, Lydia Vaughan 11. Get Away From You – Kurt Allison, Tully Kennedy, John Morgan, Lydia Vaughn 12. Changing Bars – Kurt Allison, Jonathan Edwards, Tully Kennedy, John Morgan 13. From This Beer On – Kurt Allison, Jonathan Edwards, Tully Kennedy, John Morgan 14. Highway Desperado – Jason Aldean, Kurt Allison, Jonathan Edwards, Tully Kennedy, John Morgan   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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Cirque du Soleil is going country

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Cirque du Soleil will bring audiences of all ages a new theatrical touring show starting in Nashville in July 2024 in collaboration with Universal Music Group Nashville. While introducing the perfect harmony of captivating acrobatics and soulful melodies of beloved country legends and contemporary stars, this ode to country music’s rich heritage promises an unforgettable experience. With deep roots in storytelling, heartfelt emotions, and the ability to resonate with audiences from all walks of life, both country music and Cirque du Soleil embody themes of love and resilience – as well as a passion for breathtaking, powerful performances. “Our collaboration with Universal Music Group Nashville presents an exciting opportunity for us to expand our creative horizons and reach new audiences, as we delve into the vibrant world of country music entertainment.” Stéphane Lefebvre, President, and CEO of Cirque du Soleil. “We are thrilled at the idea of joining forces with Cirque du Soleil to offer a one-of-a-kind show celebrating classic and modern country music. Cirque du Soleil is a shining example of making the impossible, possible through creativity, collaboration, and emotion. The opportunity to highlight our incredible catalog and bring the history of country music to life in a live theatrical setting, will allow our music to live on with a new generation of audiences and country music fans,” said Cindy Mabe, Chair and CEO of Universal Music Group Nashville. 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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The CMA early winners have been announced!

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HARDY and Lainey Wilson earn trophies for CMA Musical Event of the Year and CMA Music Video of the Year.Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning Host Country Music’s Biggest Night™ tonight – live From Bridgestone Arena in Nashville at 8/7c on ABC. The countdown to Country Music’s Biggest Night™ is on! With “The 57th Annual CMA Awards” airing in just a few short hours, early winners were revealed this morning in two categories. HARDY and Lainey Wilson earn trophies for their CMA Musical Event of the Year nomination, ‘wait in the truck,’ produced by HARDY, Joey Moi, Jordan Schmidt and Derek Wells as well as take home the win for CMA Music Video of the Year, directed by Justin Clough. The announcement took place live on ABC’s Good Morning America with Lara Spencer sharing the news live from downtown Nashville. CMA Awards hosts Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning also welcomed Spencer to Bridgestone Arena for a behind-the-scenes sneak peek before the big night. In addition, CMA New Artist and Song of the Year nominee Megan Moroney took to GMA’s Times Square studio this morning for a special two-song performance. With unforgettable performances from some of the biggest names in music, “The 57th Annual CMA Awards” airs live this evening (8:00-11:00 PM/EST) on ABC. Artists taking the CMA Awards stage to perform include Kelsea Ballerini, Luke Bryan, Kenny Chesney, Luke Combs, Dan + Shay, Jordan Davis, HARDY, Alan Jackson, Jelly Roll, Cody Johnson, K. Michelle, Little Big Town, Mac McAnally, Ashley McBryde, Megan Moroney, Old Dominion, Carly Pearce, Post Malone, Chris Stapleton, Tanya Tucker, Morgan Wallen, The War And Treaty, Lainey Wilson and Zac Brown Band. Tonight’s CMA Awards presenters include Paula Abdul, Bill Anderson, Nate Bargatze, Kevin Cahoon, Jordan Davis, Cynthia Erivo, Sara Evans, Brian Kelley, Lady A, Martina McBride, Parker McCollum, Craig Morgan, Darius Rucker, Corey Seager, Gerry Turner, Keith Urban, Hailey Whitters and Chris Young.   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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Gareth Dunlop Announces London Show on November 16th

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  Belfast-born singer-songwriter and accomplished producer, Gareth Dunlop, is set to captivate London with his soulful melodies and mesmerising Synth-pop sound. He has announced a full-band headline show at Soho’s The Lower Third, on November 16th 2023. This highly anticipated performance will be supported by powerhouse singer-songwriter Simeon Hammond Dallas.   Dunlop has a unique ability to connect with fans through his recordings, but there is nothing quite like his live performances. Over the years, his talent has been endorsed by a remarkable list of legendary artists, earning Dunlop support slots with music legends such as Van Morrison, Snow Patrol, James Morrison, Stereophonics, Bonnie Raitt, Foy Vance, and Jeff Beck, among others. A headline show from an artist of this calibre in an intimate venue like The Lower Third, is an evening not to be missed.   Gareth Dunlop’s debut album, ‘No. 79’, presented a captivating fusion of folk and soul in a stripped-back fashion. This album earned him critical acclaim and secured playlist placements on several prestigious Irish and UK radio stations. In the Republic of Ireland, the album even secured an Album of the Week slot on the prestigious RTE1. However, his second album, ‘Animal’, displayed how much his music has evolved; layering in the energy and nuances of his new synth-pop/retro sound. Listening to ‘Animal’, it’s astounding that Dunlop achieved such a broad, colourful soundscape without a full band present. Recorded during lockdown at his purpose-built Sycamore Studios in Belfast, ‘Animal’ showcases the level of both production and multi-instrumental skills Dunlop possesses. Other production credits include fellow Northern Irish singer-songwriter Foy Vance’s ‘Signs Of Life’ in 2021 and Lee Rogers’ ‘Gameblood’ in 2022.   Dunlop’s two albums (and many EPs) have become a soundtrack to life, featuring on both the big and small screens. His songs have found their way into hit TV series ‘Nashville’, among many other popular shows such as ‘Lucifer’, ‘This Is Us’, ‘Bones’, and ‘Suits’. In addition to TV, his work has been a part of major motion pictures like ‘The Best Of Me’, ‘Safe Haven’, ‘The Visitor’, as well as gracing TV commercials for Disney, Subaru, and more, solidifying his status as a versatile artist.   Spanning an impressive 15-year career, Gareth Dunlop has cultivated a dedicated following with his hit track ‘Wrap Your Arms Around Me’ reaching almost 5 million streams on Spotify.   Inspired by icons such as Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, and Tom Waits, plus a soupçon of Pink Floyd, Dunlop’s musical journey began at 14 when he picked up a guitar and began performing both covers and original songs in live venues around Northern Ireland, the Republic of Ireland, and the rest of the UK. Dunlop went on to win the Young Songwriter of the Year award in Belfast in 2011, an achievement that not only led to collaborations with seasoned writers in Nashville but also saw him employed as a staff writer for major music publishers. Splitting his time between sister cities Belfast and Nashville allowed Dunlop to extensively tour the United States, further expanding his horizons.   As the anticipation builds for Gareth Dunlop’s upcoming London show at The Lower Third, fans can’t help but wonder if this is just the beginning of what promises to be an exciting new chapter in his career. With a third album on the horizon, 2024 is shaping up to be an unforgettable year for Dunlop and his ever-growing fanbase. Watch a trailer for the show here:     To read more exclusive articles and latest news, see our last issue here. Never miss a story… Follow us on: Instagram: @Maverick.mag Twitter: @Maverick_mag Facebook: Maverick Magazine Media Contact Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: editor@maverick-country.com

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Dolly Parton Teams With TouchTunes To Celebrate National Jukebox Day

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TouchTunes, the largest in-venue interactive music and entertainment platform in the United States, is thrilled to announce a campaign with global superstar Dolly Parton for her new album ROCKSTAR (releasing November 17th via Butterfly Records/Big Machine Records). In celebration of National Jukebox Day on November 22, 2023, Parton will lead a month-long party. From November 1st through November 12th, any TouchTunes mobile app user who plays a song from Parton’s expansive catalog will be automatically entered to win a once-in-a-lifetime photo op with Dolly in Dallas, in advance of her headlining performance at the Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Day game. Fans can also play songs all month long on any TouchTunes jukebox from the “Dolly Presents” playlist, featuring her latest singles and greatest hits. On November 13th, TouchTunes and Dolly will premiere ‘Inside The Session’ – an exclusive interview series sharing insights into the creation of her new album “ROCKSTAR”, and reflection on iconic moments throughout her career. Dolly will officially announce the launch of TouchTunes’ Annual Golden Jukebox Awards, as well as its first ever Lifetime Achievement recipient. At midnight (local time) on November 17th TouchTunes and Waffle House will host a nationwide listening party for ROCKSTAR at all Waffle House locations. Fans can find the location closest to them here. As National Jukebox Day and Dolly’s headline performance at the Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Day game approach, be on the lookout for a Dolly Jukebox Takeover in select Dallas-Ft. Worth area venues the week of November 20th. “We are delighted to align with Dolly Parton for this year’s National Jukebox Day celebration all month long” said Ross Honey, President & CEO of TouchTunes. “At TouchTunes, we believe in bringing people together through the power of music, and we’re grateful for the opportunity to celebrate one of the greatest artists of our generation and her first-ever rock album, ROCKSTAR.”   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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CMA Announces Performers for 57th Awards Show

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The Country Music Association has revealed the second round of performers for “The 57th Annual CMA Awards.” Kelsea Ballerini, Kenny Chesney, Luke Combs, Dan + Shay, Jordan Davis, HARDY, Alan Jackson, Cody Johnson, Post Malone, Mac McAnally, Ashley McBryde, Morgan Wallen, The War And Treaty, and Zac Brown Band will all take the stage at this year’s star-studded CMA Awards. Hosted by Luke Bryan and Peyton Manning, Country Music’s Biggest Night™ broadcasts live from Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Wednesday Nov. 8 (8:00-11:00 PM/ET) on ABC and is available next day on Hulu. Female Vocalist and Album of the Year nominee Ballerini will perform Rolling Up The Welcome Mat’s open-hearted “Leave Me Again.” Reigning two-time Entertainer of the Year and four-time nominee this year Combs will take the stage to perform his new single “Where the Wild Things Are.” This year’s Vocal Duo of the Year nominee Dan + Shay will deliver powerful harmonies with their current hit single, “Save Me The Trouble,” while three-time nominee this year Davis will perform “Next Thing You Know.” Male Vocalist of the Year nominee Johnson will perform his touching new love-song, “The Painter.” Three-time nominee this year McBryde will perform her warm and personal single “Light On In the Kitchen,” and The War And Treaty, first-time nominee this year for Vocal Duo of the Year, will perform their impassioned single “That’s How Love Is Made.” Additional collaborations at this year’s show will include a tribute to recently passed songwriter, cultural force and CMA Award winner Jimmy Buffett, featuring good friends, 11-time CMA Award winner Chesney and 10-time CMA Award winner and longtime Coral Reefer Band member McAnally, as well as 16-time CMA Award winner Jackson and 2023 Vocal Group of the Year nominee Zac Brown Band. Four-time nominee this year HARDY, three-time nominee this year Wallen and first-time CMA Awards performer Post Malone will deliver a can’t-miss medley of Country classics, while Wallen will take the stage for a second time with a surprise guest to perform a song from his Album of the Year-nominated album. Presenters for “The 57th Annual CMA Awards” will be announced soon. Stay tuned to CMAawards.com for more details.   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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Randall King releases new album ‘Into the Neon’

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Raised on the plains of West Texas, Randall King honed his craft with countless nights spent strumming his guitar under the expansive skies, backlit by the stars’ neon glow. Flash forward to today, and King’s road warrior diet finds him revitalizing Country’s neo-traditional sound under a different kind of neon – the radiant glow from the signs of nearly 150 honky tonks he performs in across the country each year. It’s this inspiration of nature and humble establishments that have nurtured country music’s blue collar roots since its foundation that have inspired King to usher people Into the Neon, his latest album inspired by rowdy roughnecking, romantic tenderness and breathtaking emotion. The 18-track sophomore album is expected to land on 26 January, 2024 via Warner Music Nashville. “You grow wiser with age, you grow wiser while you’re working and experiencing life, and I feel like I have a deeper understanding of what my music really is,” said Randall King, in reference to the growth he’s experienced since his 2022 release, Shot Glass. “We’re moving into the neon era of country music. The pendulum is swinging, and you’re watching it happen… Now I just hope people get their mind blown.” Co-produced by King alongside Jared Conrad, the project incorporates a unique blend of the influences from icons and modern masters alike who have inspired King’s sound; inclusive of the timeless ‘80s country twang of George Strait and Keith Whitley, and the blood pumping, Y2K-era rhythms of Dierks Bentley and Gary Allan. Showcasing his ability to traverse from a toe-tapping waltzer with ‘When My Baby’s In Boots’ to the yearning lament of ‘I Could Be That Rain’, King lays it all on the line with songs that could just as easily be enjoyed while slow dancing under the starry night sky or while line dancing at a local honky tonk. With the release of ‘Hang Of Hangin’ On’, available to listen to now, King sings about finding himself graciously holding close to the girl he loves despite keeping “a goodbye up his sleeve” in the past. “Think I’m getting the hang of hangin’ all this music out there,” King added. “I sure loved this song from the first time I heard it. Go spin your lady to this one y’all!” Despite being in the studio recording new music this year, King has also stayed busy on the road, recently returning from his first-ever European tour in September, Neon Overseas, with a set of 11 shows, including sold-out stops in Cologne, London and more. He will return to Germany to play C2C Festival Berlin with Brad Paisley on 3 March, 2024. As the year winds down, King will support Jon Pardi and Ian Munsick on select tour dates, while continuing to headline stops in Paso Robles, CA; Reno, NV; Salt Lake City, UT and more. King’s 3rd Annual KingFest in Luckenbach, Texas will take place on 11 November with Gary P. Nunn, Jon Stork and Braxton Keith at the helm for support. For upcoming tour dates and more information, visit RandallKingMusic.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

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Conner Smith drops “Creek Will Rise (Acoustic)”

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Continuing to super serve his loyal fan base as he readies his forthcoming full-length debut, CONNER SMITH has dropped a fresh acoustic version of his bluegrass-inflected twang rocker “Creek Will Rise” (The Valory Music Co.). The blood-pumping single is currently US Top-20-and-rising at Country radio while amassing nearly 40 million streams to date with Country Central declaring it “an absolute barn-burner from the first note.” Smith continues to put on his signature “high energy fan forward show” (All Country News) on the road as direct support on Cole Swindell’s TWELVE TOUR, following a packed year touring coast to coast with some of Country’s biggest artists including Luke Bryan, Chase Rice and Jordan Davis. Next up, he’ll embark on his second headline trek of 2023 on the CREEK WILL RISE TOUR with special guests Lauren Watkins and John Morgan beginning November 2 in Athens, Georgia. CREEK WILL RISE US TOUR DATES November 2 | Athens, GA – Georgia Theater* November 3 | Gainesville, FL – Vivid Music Hall* November 4 | Orlando, FL – House of Blues* November 9 | Columbia, MO – The Blue Note^ November 10 | Indianapolis, IN – 8 Seconds Saloon^ November 11 | Chattanooga, TN – The Signal^ November 16 | Lexington, KY – Manchester Music Hall November 17 | Columbus, OH – The Bluestone^ November 18 | Grand Rapids, MI – The Stache^ November 30 | Charlottesville, VA – Jefferson Theater^ December 1 | Silver Spring, MD – The Filmore Silver Spring^ December 2 | Chesapeake, VA – Eagles’ Nest Rockin’ Country Bar^ January 11 | West Chester, OH – LRH Live^ January 12 | Charlotte, NC – Coyote Joe’s^ January 13 | Greenville, SC – Bling Horse Saloon^ January 18 | Boston, MA – Paradise Rock Club^ January 19 | Pittsburgh, PA – Stage AE^ January 20 | Medina, OH – Thirsty Cowboy^ January 25 | Atlanta, GA – Buckhead Theatre^ January 26 | Nashville, TN – Brooklyn Bowl Nashville^ January 27 | Tuscaloosa, AL – Druid City Music Hall^ ^ Lauren Watkins * John Morgan ABOUT CONNER SMITH: Just 23 years old and already a seasoned veteran of Nashville’s elite songwriting community, Conner Smith has become one of Country’s most hotly-anticipated new artists – an uncommon talent mixing prime-of-life passion with old-soul perspective. After penning his first song at 6 and scoring a publishing deal at 16, the Country prodigy wrote five of the six songs on his Zach Crowell-produced 2022 debut collection DIDN’T GO TOO FAR (The Valory Music Co.). Featuring his first Top 40 hit “Learn From It,” viral smash “I Hate Alabama,” and GOLD-certified fan-favorite “Take It Slow,” the charismatic effort laid an artistic foundation that earned Smith 2022 Artist to Watch status from Spotify, Amazon Music and Opry NextStage, while also making him the only Country artist on Pandora’s Ten List 2022 and securing 2023 recognition from MusicRow Next Big Thing, CMT Listen Up, and more. Deemed an “an unstoppable force to be reckoned with” by CMT, Smith’s authentic storytelling and rich, soulful voice has resonated with audiences nationwide, earning him a dedicated and passionate following. He’s come to know exactly what his fans want – and he continues to deliver “next level” music to them as reflected with his blood bumping Top-20-and-climbing single “Creek Will Rise,” which has quickly amassed nearly 40 million streams to date. Recently touring alongside Thomas Rhett, Parker McCollum, Ryan Hurd, Chase Rice and Jordan Davis. Smith spent the summer on Luke Bryan’s COUNTRY ON TOUR and is currently servicing as direct support on Cole Swindell’s TWELVE TOUR before kicking off his second headline trel of the year – CREEK WILL RISE TOUR with special guests Lauren Watkins and John Morgan. For a full list of tour dates and more, visit ConnerSmithMusic.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

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Scott Clay

Scott Clay’s new single ‘Let It All Lay Bare’

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Singer-Songwriter Scott Clay Reveals New Single ‘Let It All Lay Bare’ Out October 13th, Announces UK Tour, and Hints at New Album for 2024 Nashville-based singer-songwriter Scott Clay is poised to make a triumphant return with his upcoming single, ‘Let It All Lay Bare’, scheduled for release on the 13th of October. This eagerly anticipated release will seamlessly coincide with his October UK tour, followed by another UK tour scheduled for early 2024, with hopes of a new album to follow. As the captivating opening and title track off of his fifth studio album, ‘Let It All Lay Bare’ delves deep into introspection. What initially began as a loosely woven melody and lyrics soon transformed into a heartfelt call to intimacy, urging someone to open their heart. Drawing inspiration from the melodic tones of R.E.M. and the lyrical storytelling of Tom Petty, it takes a lightly romantic approach to its subject, but at its core, it’s about meaningful connections and was inspired by Clay’s own desire for a deeper relationship with his pensive, stoic father Clay explains that he “thought about keeping this song’s true inspiration to myself, because it is a little raw,” the artist admits, “but I am trying to push to the edge of what I feel comfortable sharing in an effort to expose a more complete, authentic version of myself to listeners.” Scott Clay’s highly anticipated sixth studio album, ‘Jade’, is due for release in May 2024. The first track from the new album ‘One for the Road’ is out on February 9th. It peeks underneath the layers of traditional Americana to reveal the Nashville songwriter immersed in the midst of his alchemical storytelling. Complex yet uncomplicated, the album’s eleven tracks roam from funky ‘60s-inspired riffs to modern experimental folk ballads, while his unabashed lyrics and distinctive voice invite listeners on an introspective journey. On his fifth studio album, ‘Let It All Lay Bare’, released in 2022, Scott Clay masterfully showcased themes ranging from significant relationships to breathtaking displays of natural beauty and even iconic historical events. Across this record, Clay treated his audience to a diverse spectrum of musical experiences, from the George Michael-inspired ‘Nothing Like the Real Thing’ to the funk-infused, organ-driven ‘Baptize Me’, and the rockabilly-influenced ‘It’s Easy’. Assisted by the skilled production and engineering of Mike Davis (known for his work with Modest Mouse and The Head and the Heart) and a roster of top-tier musicians, Clay weaved together an assortment of lively, easygoing songs as well as more emotion-provoking, mellow reflections. ‘Lay It All Bare’ proved to be an album that captured the keen interest of esteemed publications Glide Magazine, Americana UK, Americana Highways, Under The Radar, and Anti-Music, among many others. Over the years, Clay has shared the stage with notable acts such as Drayton Farley, The Brothers Reed, and Ian Jones. His journey as a performing artist sets the stage for an exciting upcoming UK tour, where he’ll be joining forces with Dave Hemingway, a member of the renowned British band, The Beautiful South. Clay’s musical exploration began during his teenage years, but it wasn’t until college that he fully committed to it. In 2005, he made the move to Seattle, and by 2007, he had already released his debut album, ‘Colorful Thing’. Since then, Clay has added four more albums and two EPs to his repertoire. His music video for ‘Time Will Tell’ received recognition, earning finalist nominations from both the American Tracks Music Awards and the Canadian Cinematography Awards. Live Dates Oct 14th – Oxfam Beeston Music Festival – Nottingham, UK Oct 18th – The Camden Club – London, UK Oct 20th – The Factory Live – Worthing, UK (Sunbirds support) Dave Hemingway Oct 24th – The Six Six Bar – Cambridge, UK (Sunbirds support) Dave Hemingway Jan 24th –  Folklore Hackney – London, UK Jan 26th – The Folklore Rooms – Brighton, UK Jan 27th –  Otford Memorial Hall – Otford, UK Jan 28th – The Hobbit – Southampton, UK Jan 31st – Map Studio Cafe – London, UK Feb 2nd – Angel Microbrewery – Nottingham UK Feb 3rd – The Acoustic Lounge – Poynton, UK Feb 4th – The Q Room – Leicester, UK Feb 6th – Lowther Pavilion – Lytham St Annes, UK Feb 7th – The Kings Arms – Salford UK Feb 8th – Leith Arches – Edinburgh, UK Feb 9th – The Blue Lamp – Aberdeen, UK Feb 11th – Blackfriars Basement – Glasgow UK Feb 13th – Bannermans – Edinburgh UK Feb 14th – The Old Hairdressers – Glasgow UK Feb 15th – The Fighting Cocks – Kingston upon Thames, UK Feb 16th – The Rising Sun Arts Centre – Reading UK 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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Maverick

Mick Flannery releases new album ‘Goodtime Charlie’

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Mick Flannery has recently released his eighth studio album, ‘Goodtime Charlie’. Recorded in Cork City with long-time collaborator and producer Christian Best, this collection of fourteen tracks spans various genres, from Folk ballads to alt-pop and Americana. Notably, it marks the first international artist to release on ‘Oh Boy Records,’ the beloved Nashville label founded by John Prine. Renowned for writing songs with fluency, expressing layered aspects of the human condition, its flaws, triumphs, and general uncertainty. Mick’s latest offering – ‘Goodtime Charlie’ is no exception. Writing for this album started pre-pandemic whilst touring in the USA in January 2020.  ‘Give Me Up,’ written in Los Angeles with producer Tony Buchen and Australian musician, producer and songwriter Justin Stanley.’ OKLA’ (“a love letter to a dead dream”) had been written in Nashville with writer Adam Landry. Amidst lockdowns, Mick turned to virtual collaborations. His weekly online sessions with Ana Egge yielded three album tracks: “Neon Tonight” (“about a band waiting to go onstage, feeling nervous and excited”), “Machine” (“a song about an emotionally distant mechanic, who just loves driving, wondering why people lead such complicated lives”) and “Someone to Tell it To” (“a song about a journey and the gratitude of having someone traveling with you”). Another virtual collaboration emerged with rising star Tianna Esperanza (the granddaughter of Punk royalty Palmolive from The Slits), on the song “Old Friend,” this would be first of three duets on the record. The second, the folk-noir track, “The Fact.”  Mick is joined by Valerie June, an American singer-songwriter whom he has previously shared the stage with on both sides of the Atlantic, most recently having Valerie as his special guest in Dublin at The National Museum of Ireland last month. The third duet is the previously released ‘Minnesota’, addressing the relationship between individuals and their state. Where Anaïs Mitchell’s voice takes the lead. Their collaboration extended to a live performance of the duet at The Cork Opera House this past weekend. Joined by Anais’ band ‘Bonny Light Horseman,’ and arranged by Bryce Dressner for the RTE Concert Orchestra. Consequently Goodtime Charlie has more collaborations and co-writes than on any previous records. “It sparks you out of your comfort zone,” Mick says, “It opens up new perspectives, you wonder ‘how would someone else do this?’ – the result is the best album of Mick’s already stellar career. Whatever the other voices add, whether on the record or in the writing, it creates a suite of songs that twist and turn surprise and engage like no others to this date. “It’s more fun too,” Mick notes, “I don’t take myself as seriously as I did when I was 20. Back then, you’re all about yourself. I’m open to more fun now, trying things, hence, Goodtime Charlie.” The song ‘Goodtime Charlie,’ the albums namesake sets the tone for a game of two halves. With ‘What They Say’, ‘Morning Rain’, the aforementioned ‘Give Me Up’ and ‘Neon Tonight’ lending to a free-spirited, 70’s feel. A nod to The Band and Van Morrison of the era.  There is a nostalgia weaved through these songs that juxtapose the deep and soulful ballads that make up the other half of this epic piece of work. Today also sees the premier of the official video for the recently released single “Young.”  The song has been described as ‘an instinctive, soulful study of adolescence, free will and finding the energy to pick the important fights.’  Directed by Mark Logan from Dublin’s CLTV Films, who has recently directed music documentaries for Fontaines DC as well as Dublin’s famous ‘The Busk’, of the process Logan said: “I believe we live in a time that is devoid of courage, the courage to stand up and speak out for what is right and what we believe in. I believe the youth have been deprived of such an important becoming. Instead they are lost in a sea of technology and isolation. From each other and themselves. In this film I’ve imagined the four distinct stages of one man’s life.”  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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