Afua Akoto

Sofía Ellar While Sofía Ellar is primarily known for her indie-folk and pop influences, her music often carries the same raw storytelling elements found in country and Americana. Born in the U.K. but raised in Spain, Sofía has a unique approach to songwriting, weaving deeply personal narratives into her lyrics, much like the great Nashville songwriters. Her acoustic-driven sound, paired with a warm, heartfelt vocal delivery, has drawn comparisons to artists like Kacey Musgraves and Jewel. Songs like Versión de Cobarde and Segundas Partes Entre Suicidas reflect the emotional depth and lyrical introspection characteristic of country music, even when sung in Spanish. What makes Sofía stand out is her grassroots success—she built her career independently, using social media to connect with fans rather than relying on a major label. This DIY spirit aligns with the ethos of many country and Americana artists who forge their paths outside the mainstream industry. With a strong following in Spain and Latin America, Sofía continues to prove that country music’s storytelling appeal transcends languages and borders. Daniel Minimalia Daniel Minimalia is an award-winning instrumentalist and composer whose work blends country, blues, and folk influences with cinematic soundscapes. Often referred to as the “Spanish Mark Knopfler,” his intricate guitar work and emotive compositions have won him critical acclaim, including a Latin Grammy nomination. While he doesn’t strictly fit the mold of a country artist, Daniel’s instrumental pieces echo the Americana and Western influences of artists like Ry Cooder and Ennio Morricone. His song Olas del Sur evokes the same wide-open landscapes and storytelling depth found in classic country music, making it easy to imagine his compositions as the backdrop for a modern Western film. Daniel’s ability to merge Spanish guitar techniques with country and folk elements makes him a standout figure in Spain’s growing roots music scene. Whether he’s composing sweeping instrumental tracks or collaborating with vocalists, his music captures the essence of what makes country and Americana so powerful—the ability to tell a story without words. Red Beard Hailing from the Canary Islands, Jaime Jiménez, better known as Red Beard, is one of Spain’s leading figures in country and Americana music. With a deep, gravelly voice reminiscent of outlaw country legends like Waylon Jennings and Chris Stapleton, Red Beard has developed a loyal fan base both in Spain and internationally. His music, a mix of blues, country, and rock, is steeped in American Southern influences but remains distinctly his own. Songs like All or Nothing and The Road feature twangy guitars, soulful lyrics, and a raw, unfiltered energy that captures the rebellious spirit of outlaw country. Unlike many European artists who dabble in country music, Red Beard doesn’t just imitate—he embodies the genre’s grit and authenticity. Having performed across Europe and the U.S., Red Beard is proof that country music isn’t confined to Nashville—it’s a feeling, a way of storytelling, and a universal sound that can resonate anywhere. 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: [email protected]