Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne, Author at Maverick Country

ACM announces Industry and Studio Recording Award winners

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

The Academy of Country Music® has announced the winners of the ACM Industry Awards and Studio Recording Awards for the 59th Academy of Country Music Awards™ through a series of video announcements. Featured presenters included Kelsea Ballerini, Dierks Bentley, Dan + Shay, Jordan Davis, Vince Gill, Cody Johnson, Parker McCollum, Justin Moore, Thomas Rhett, Tigirlily Gold, Keith Urban, and local media personalities from across the country. All award winners, along with the soon-to-be-announced Special Award recipients, will be honoured at the 17th Academy of Country Music Honors™ on Wednesday, 21 August 2024, at the historic Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, Tennessee. Details about the ACM Special Award honourees, hosts, and ticket information will be revealed on Tuesday, 18 June. Information about performers will follow in the coming weeks. Studio Recording Awards Highlights Paul Franklin secured his second ACM Specialty Instrument Player of the Year Award, marking his 18th ACM Award overall. This achievement ties him with fellow steel guitar player J.D. Maness for the most ACM Studio Recording Award wins. Dann Huff received his fifth ACM Producer of the Year Award, bringing his total ACM Award count to 11. Huff is the most-nominated non-artist in ACM Awards history with 57 nominations, surpassed only by artists such as Alabama, Brooks & Dunn, Kenny Chesney, Merle Haggard, Alan Jackson, Miranda Lambert, Tim McGraw, and George Strait. Jimmie Lee Sloas achieved his fifth win as ACM Bass Player of the Year. Rob McNelley won his first ACM Electric Guitar Player of the Year award, bringing his total ACM Award count to four; his previous three awards were in the ACM Guitar Player of the Year category, which was split into separate Electric and Acoustic categories in 2021. Jim “Moose” Brown secured his third win as ACM Piano/Keys Player of the Year. Audio Engineer Jim Cooley, piano/keys player David Dorn, and guitar player Charlie Worsham each received their second career ACM Awards for Audio Engineer of the Year, Piano/Keys Player of the Year, and Acoustic Guitar Player of the Year, respectively. Drummer Jerry Roe celebrated his first ACM Award with his recognition as ACM Drummer of the Year. Industry Awards Highlights The Ryman Auditorium and Bridgestone Arena, both located in Nashville, TN, were recognised with ACM Theater of the Year and ACM Arena of the Year, respectively. This marks the Ryman Auditorium’s eighth win and Bridgestone Arena’s sixth. Mohegan Sun Arena in Uncasville, Connecticut, took home its eighth ACM award in the Casino of the Year – Arena category. Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison, Colorado, won its third ACM Outdoor Venue of the Year award and fifth overall ACM Award. Joe’s Live in Rosemont, Illinois, received its third ACM Award for Club of the Year, and the club’s owner, Ed Warm, received his first win for ACM Talent Buyer of the Year, bringing his total personal trophy count to six. Fort Lauderdale, Florida’s Tortuga Music Festival received its third ACM Award for ACM Festival of the Year, and Durant, Oklahoma’s Choctaw Grand Theater received its third ACM Award for ACM Casino of the Year – Theater. The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo received its second ACM Award for ACM Fair/Rodeo of the Year. Adam Weiser of AEG won his first ACM Award for ACM Promoter of the Year. Complete List of Winners Industry Award Winners: Casino of the Year – Theater: Choctaw Grand Theater – Durant, OK Casino of the Year – Arena: Mohegan Sun Arena – Uncasville, CT Festival of the Year: Tortuga Music Festival – Fort Lauderdale, FL Fair/Rodeo of the Year: San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo – San Antonio, TX Club of the Year: Joe’s Live – Rosemont, IL Theater of the Year: Ryman Auditorium – Nashville, TN Outdoor Venue of the Year: Red Rocks Amphitheatre – Morrison, CO Arena of the Year: Bridgestone Arena – Nashville, TN Don Romeo Talent Buyer of the Year: Ed Warm Promoter of the Year: Adam Weiser – AEG Studio Recording Award Winners: Bass Player of the Year: Jimmie Lee Sloas Drummer of the Year: Jerry Roe Acoustic Guitar Player of the Year: Charlie Worsham Electric Guitar Player of the Year: Rob McNelley Piano/Keyboards Player of the Year: (TIE) Jim “Moose” Brown & David Dorn Specialty Instrument(s) Player of the Year: Paul Franklin Audio Engineer of the Year: Jim Cooley Producer of the Year: Dann Huff 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: [email protected]

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Beyond Nashville: BRELAND

Leave a Comment / Beyond Nashville, Exclusives / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

In the sprawling landscape of contemporary country music, one name is challenging the traditional boundaries and reshaping the genre’s landscape: BRELAND. Hailing from outside the typical confines of Nashville, BRELAND is a musical maverick whose unique blend of country, hip-hop and R&B has captivated audiences all over the world. Born in New Jersey and raised in Southern New Jersey, BRELAND’s (who’s birth name is Daniel Gerard Breland) journey to country music stardom is a testament to his versatility and vision. Growing up, he was immersed in the depths of musical influences, from the soulful sounds of Motown to the gritty beats of hip-hop. It was this eclectic mix of genres that would later become the cornerstone of his groundbreaking sound. Unlike many of his Nashville counterparts, BRELAND’s entrance into the country music scene wasn’t conventional. Instead of honky-tonks and cowboy hats, his musical upbringing was shaped by the bustling streets of New Jersey and the pulsating rhythms of urban culture. Yet, it was precisely this outsider perspective that would one day set him apart in an industry often defined by its traditions. BRELAND’s breakout hit, ‘My Truck’, is a perfect example of his genre-bending approach. With its infectious melody, catchy lyrics and seamless fusion of country twang and hip-hop swagger, the song became an instant sensation, earning him widespread acclaim and propelling him into the spotlight. The track eventually reached number 26 on the Hot Country Chart. In a genre known for its reverence for the past, BRELAND dared to break the mould and create something entirely new and refreshing. Read the full feature in our free digital magazine here: https://bit.ly/3WUe56j 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: [email protected]

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Review: Hadestown – Hadestown (Original Broadway Cast Recording) Special Edition LP :

Leave a Comment / Top Picks / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

“Welcome to the underground!” With its haunting melodies, poetic lyrics, and captivating storytelling, the original Broadway cast recording of “Hadestown” invites listeners on a journey to the depths of the human soul. From the opening chords of ‘Road to Hell’, listeners are transported to a world where the line between love and darkness blurs. Mitchell weaves together elements of folk, jazz and blues, creating a sound that feels both timeless and contemporary. Reeve Carney’s portrayal of Orpheus is filled with a tender vulnerability, while Eva Noblezada’s Eurydice exudes a raw, restless energy. Patrick Page commands as the ominous Hades, his deep baritone sending shivers down the spine. Standout tracks include ‘Wait for Me’, a haunting duet between Orpheus and Eurydice that captures the essence of longing and hope and ‘Chant’, a mesmerizing ensemble number that builds to a powerful crescendo. Read the full feature in our free digital magazine here: https://bit.ly/3WUe56j 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: [email protected]

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Josh Ross announces headlining ‘Single Again’ tour

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Country music fans, get ready! Breakout star Josh Ross is set to electrify stages across the United States this autumn with his newly announced headlining ‘Single Again’ Tour. Launching in Point Pleasant Beach, NJ, on 28th August, the tour will make stops in key cities including New York, Los Angeles, Nashville, Chicago, and more, before concluding in Indianapolis on 9th November. Joining Ross on this exciting journey is special guest Brandon Wisham. “I’m so stoked for my first U.S. headline tour,” shares Ross. “We have been opening for some of the best over the past couple years and we have worked hard to build our live show. We started our headline tour in Canada earlier this year and can’t wait to bring it to the U.S. It’s going to be so much fun being out there with y’all.” Josh Ross’s ‘Single Again’ Tour Dates: 8/28/24 – Point Pleasant Beach, NJ – Jenks Club* 8/29/24 – Dewey Beach, DE – Bottle & Cork 9/1/24 – Uncasville, CT – Wolf Den** 9/5/24 – Cambridge, MA – The Sinclair 9/6/24 – New York, NY – Mercury Lounge 9/7/24 – Washington, D.C. – The Atlantis 9/19/24 – Peoria, IL – Crusens 9/26/24 – Minneapolis, MN – Amsterdam Bar and Hall 9/27/24 – Milwaukee, WI – The Rave 9/28/24 – Sioux City, IA – Anthem at Hard Rock 10/9/24 – Los Angeles, CA – Troubadour 10/10/24 – Anaheim, CA – House of Blues 10/12/24 – Sacramento, CA – Goldfield 10/17/24 – Atlanta, GA – Eddies Attic 10/24/24 – Nashville, TN – Exit/In 11/6/24 – Oxford, OH – Brick Street 11/7/24 – Grand Rapids, MI – The Stache 11/8/24 – Chicago, IL – Carol’s Pub 11/9/24 – Indianapolis, IN – Hi-Fi 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: [email protected]

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Ward Thomas announce intimate UK tour

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Country pop music duo Ward Thomas have announced an intimate, acoustic UK tour for Winter 2025. Hailed as the UK’s most successful country act, twin sisters Catherine and Lizzy Ward Thomas will tour across the country with a 22-date tour across January and February, performing a special show with stripped back versions of songs from across their career. These unique shows will take Ward Thomas back to their early days of performing and writing together, seeing the duo perform and share the stories behind the songs that have seen them make such an impact on country music. Recording their debut album, 2014’s ‘From Where We Stand’, whilst still in school, the duo have since cemented themselves as pioneers in the UK Country and Americana scene; not least for the follow-up album ‘Cartwheels’ released in 2016 going to No.1 in the UK Album Charts, the first by a UK country act to top the charts. In 2019, the band were presented with the Country Music Association’s Jeff Walker Global Achievement Award in recognition of their success and impact on country music in the UK. Tour dates: January 2025 Tuesday 21st Newark Palace Theatre Wednesday 22nd Whitley Bay Playhouse Thursday 23rd Kendal Brewery Arts Friday 24th Crewe Lyceum Theatre Wednesday 29th Huddersfield Laurence Batley Theatre Thursday 30th Leeds City Varieties Friday 31st Leicester Y Theatre February 2025 Saturday 1st Milton Keynes The Stables Wednesday 5th Barnstaple Queen’s Theatre Thursday 6th Taunton Brewhouse Friday 7th Carmarthen Lyric Theatre Sunday 8th Worcester Huntingdon Hall Wednesday 12th Poole Lighthouse Theatre Thursday 13th Hayes Beck Theatre Friday 14th Harpenden Eric Morecombe Centre Sunday 16th Southend Palace Theatre Tuesday 18th Bury St Edmunds The Apex Wednesday 19th Aldershot Princes Hall Thursday 20th Ramsgate Granville Theatre Friday 21st Farham Fareham Live Thursday 25th London Union Chapel Friday 28th Bromley Churchill Theatre 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: [email protected]

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Review: Michael Hosier – Take Our Country Back

Leave a Comment / Top Picks / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Hosier goes patriotic with this single. An anthem for American pride and faith, Hosier’s deep, raspy voice provides the perfect amount of grit to this country rock track. Hosier’s voice alongside the distorted guitar and organ lines make this track what it is: absolutely, instantly re-playable. The Arkansas native gives it his all, with a chorus that is catchy enough to be shouted from the rooftops, this track is almost certain to become a festival hit for Hosier. With each verse, Hosier paints a vivid picture of resilience, perseverance, and the unwavering spirit that defines the nation. With its infectious melody and stirring lyrics, this track is more than just a song—it’s a celebration of the American spirit, destined to resonate with audiences far and wide. Read the full feature in our free digital magazine here: https://bit.ly/3WUe56j 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: [email protected]

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The Hello Darlins: Tour de force

Leave a Comment / Exclusives / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Manifesting is the key topic of conversation with Candace Lacina, frontwoman of The Hello Darlins. “I wish the sun was shining a little bit more today. This point in winter, I’m ready for the summer.” She laughs at me, “Just pretend it’s there and then so it will be…” She adds, suggesting that the tone of our interview will follow the pattern of hope and renewal. The Hello Darlins hail from Canada, although their collaborative efforts reach across the world, with musicians tapping in and out of the project as and when they can contribute. The main pair – Lacina and her husband Mike Little – are among the most highly requested session and touring musicians in the country, nay, in the world. As true professionals, they were on tour for a total of 187 days in 2023, with no view to stop in 2024. “Well, luckily this album was already in the works before we went on tour, so it was nice to just be able to plan for it. We had another record we were touring late [2021s ‘Go By Feel’] because of the pandemic. We hadn’t really had a chance to tour it, so this was an opportunity to kind of tour that record and also play some of the songs live in front of audiences.” Lacina explains. The ability to tour and create an album at the same time might not be unique in today’s music industry, but for The Hello Darlins, the two are intertwined: “I think ‘The Alders and the Ashes’, it’s a blend of a bunch of different things that we do live,” the music is reflective of that, with the double-LP taking the listener on a journey from acoustic, more intimate moments to the more fast-paced, bombastic anthems, Lacina reminisces, “We had a lot of midtempo, more reflective songs and our live show is very dynamic. It’s a combination of being really upbeat and playing all different styles of gospel, blues, country and even some rock. But then also the folk elements, the more acoustic sections, that are more heartfelt. We wanted an album that really represented more closely what our live shows are like.” As The Hello Darlins seek to represent their sound on record, it’s not just that that shapes their music, but also the influence of all the prestigious artists they collaborate with. “I think being a collective, from what we know from so many years of being touring musicians and being on the road is that lots of times a session and backup musician, they have a number of different gigs that they take and they may become artists themselves on their own,” Lacina’s understanding of touring life and session musicianship informs the way that her and Little work on their own music. Read the full feature in our free digital magazine here: https://bit.ly/3WUe56j 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: [email protected]

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More support announced for Morgan Wallen’s BST show

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Morgan Wallen will headline the festival on Thursday 4th July. Wallen’s performance is highly anticipated, and today, even more special guests have been announced in support. Joining Wallen will be a vibrant mix of talent, including Alana Springsteen, Alexandra Kay, Zandi Holup, Abbie Mac, The Halfway Kid, and Evan Bartels. They complement the previously announced acts Riley Green, ERNEST, and Ella Langley. Alana Springsteen, a young Nashville singer-songwriter, is leading a new generation of country stars. She released her debut album, “TWENTY SOMETHING,” last year and has been writing songs since she was nine, inspired by a Taylor Swift concert. Her track “taylor did” pays tribute to Swift, but Springsteen is making her own mark with her genuine connection with audiences both live and online. Alexandra Kay is another rising star, having built her career with millions of video views online before making her Grand Ole Opry debut at the age of 22. She has since collaborated with notable names like Tim McGraw and Randy Travis, performed at the UK’s Country to Country festival, and released her debut album, “All I’ve Ever Known,” in 2023, which has amassed over 300 million streams. Newcomer Zandi Holup brings a prolific artist-writer background reminiscent of folk icons like Dolly Parton and Joni Mitchell. Her debut song “Gas Station Flowers” last year showcased her raw, original folk country style, characterised by unfiltered storytelling and emotive vocals, which have garnered a growing grassroots following. Also performing are Derry’s teenage singer-songwriter Abbie Mac, British-Sudanese folk singer The Halfway Kid, and emerging Nebraskan artist Evan Bartels. This diverse and talented line-up joins the previously announced acts, including country star Riley Green making his first UK performance, Nashville’s unpredictable hitmaker ERNEST, and rising artist Ella Langley. Headliner Morgan Wallen expressed his excitement, saying, “Last autumn was my first time in the UK and man, I loved it. I saw so much while I was there, and the people were incredible. To play where legendary artists like Pink Floyd and The Rolling Stones have played is a huge honour for me and my band, and we can’t wait to be back.” Morgan Wallen’s meteoric rise in the music industry is evident, with 13 No. 1 hits and a recent collaboration with Post Malone on “I Had Some Help,” which soared to No. 2 on the Official Charts in the UK and held the No. 1 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 for four consecutive weeks. The New York Times has hailed him as “one of the biggest stars in pop, period,” as he continues to captivate audiences worldwide, playing to over 2.4 million fans. Earlier this year, Wallen released the “Abbey Road Sessions,” commemorating the one-year anniversary of his record-setting album “One Thing At A Time.” Recorded in London’s iconic Studio Two at Abbey Road Studios, the digital series includes five live recordings from the album, an unreleased fan-favourite “Lies Lies Lies,” and a cover of Nothing But Thieves’ “Graveyard Whistling.” The line-up for American Express presents BST Hyde Park 2024 promises to be spectacular, with headliners including SZA (June 29), Kings of Leon (June 30), Morgan Wallen (July 4), Andrea Bocelli (July 5), Robbie Williams (July 6), Shania Twain (July 7), Stevie Nicks (July 12), Kylie (July 13), and Stray Kids (July 14), with full line-ups for each day to be announced, along with All Things Orchestral on June 28. 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: [email protected]

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UK’s Music Venue Trust publishes its manifesto

Leave a Comment / News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

The Music Venue Trust (MVT), a charity representing hundreds of Grassroots Music Venues (GMVs) across the UK, has issued a pressing appeal to politicians of all parties ahead of the UK General Election on 4th July. The MVT is urging leaders to “seize the moment” and address the deepening crisis threatening the sector. In its newly published report, ‘A Manifesto for Grassroots Music’, the MVT outlines essential steps needed to halt the closure of GMVs, which currently exceed one per week, and to restore stability to the sector. Describing this as “a once in a generation opportunity to save the UK’s grassroots music venues,” the report stresses the need for immediate implementation of recommendations from the Culture Media & Sport Select Committee. These include a proposed £1 contribution from every arena and stadium ticket sold for events over a 5000 capacity to support grassroots music. The report also calls for the abolition of VAT on GMV tickets, a review of the business rates paid by venues, and changes to existing planning laws. Among its key proposals are: A £1 grassroots investment contribution from every arena and stadium ticket sold. A fan-led review to examine the long-term challenges of the live music ecosystem. The statutory implementation of the agent of change principle in the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). A reduction of VAT on cultural ticketing in GMVs to 0%, and a reduction of VAT on cultural ticketing in the live music industry to the European average (5-7%). The creation of a specific business rates premises definition for GMVs, exempting them from paying business rates. Sophie Brownlee, External Affairs Manager at Music Venue Trust, commented, “The Manifesto is being delivered to every prospective MP in the country with the request that they come out in support of it as part of their campaign to be elected. Music communities across the country will also be asking the candidates where they stand on the future of live music in our towns and cities. The time to act is now.” The CMS select committee’s recent report, which backs the £1 levy on concert tickets, highlighted the precarious situation facing grassroots music venues. It stated, “Grassroots live music venues, the local, limited capacity venues integral to the pipeline of creative and professional talent and key fixtures of our communities, are now facing a crisis of soaring costs and closures. Artists, and the people who rely on them for business, are facing a cost-of-touring crisis and finding opportunities squeezed. Promoters are less able to put on shows or make them financially viable. Festivals, electronic music venues, and even academies and arenas are not insulated from the impacts.” Mark Davyd, CEO of Music Venue Trust, underscored the severity of the issue, stating, “In 2023, of the 366 small music venues Ed Sheeran played while learning his trade, at least 150 are now closed. Another 72 grassroots music venues significantly reduced or ended their live music offer. 38% of GMVs in the UK made a loss in the last 12 months. The sector operated on a 0.5% profit margin overall while running live music events at a £115 million loss. All of this can be changed if the next government delivers the five simple steps we have set out in this report. We therefore call on all political representatives, from all parties, to seize the moment and drive forward this change. We have a chance to save UK grassroots music venues from the crisis they currently face and we should not let it slip.” As the election approaches, the fate of the UK’s grassroots music scene hangs in the balance, with the MVT’s proposals offering a potential lifeline for the struggling sector. 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: [email protected]

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CMA Fest celebrates its next 50 years

Leave a Comment / Beyond Nashville, News / Rebecca Morpeth-Spayne

Nashville was alive with the sound of Country Music as CMA Fest, the largest and longest-running Country Music festival in the world, marked its 51st celebration this past weekend. From Thursday, 6 June to Sunday, 9 June, the event brought together fans from all 50 states and 46 countries, highlighting the enduring connection between artists and their audience. The festival was a resounding success, setting the stage for the next half-century of Country Music celebrations. Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer, expressed her excitement: “What an incredible four days and nights! This year’s CMA Fest has truly been a celebration of community and collaboration. From Country icons returning to the Fest stage, to emerging acts reaching new audiences for the first time, seeing the fans and the industry embrace our genre in such a meaningful way has been the perfect way to kick off our next 50 years. We can’t wait for 2025!” The festival footprint was buzzing with activity, featuring multiple stages and more than 300 performers playing to capacity crowds. Highlights included a special appearance by Dolly Parton at Fan Fair X on Thursday morning, which saw thousands of fans lining up hours in advance for a Q&A session and impromptu sing-alongs. Shaboozey and Tucker Wetmore were among the breakout stars, with performances that spilled out into the streets of Nashville. Nissan Stadium was the epicentre of excitement, with surprise moments and unique collaborations lighting up the nights. Post Malone thrilled fans with an unannounced performance, joined by Blake Shelton for their new song “Pour Me A Drink.” Other memorable moments included Ashley McBryde’s duet with Gretchen Wilson, Lynyrd Skynyrd’s collaboration with ZZ Top’s Billy Gibbons, and Lainey Wilson’s performances with both Terri Clark and Keith Urban. The festival closed on a high note with HARDY bringing a star-studded lineup to the stage. The festival’s extensive line-up featured additional acts at Nissan Stadium, with artists like Craig Morgan, Jordan Davis, Thomas Rhett, and Lynyrd Skynyrd delivering standout performances. Each night brought its own set of highlights, from Gretchen Wilson’s high-energy opening on Friday to Jelly Roll’s eclectic mashup on Saturday. The final day saw performances from Josh Turner, Megan Moroney, Brothers Osborne, Carly Pearce, and more, culminating in HARDY’s powerful closing set. Beyond the music, CMA Fest offered fans a wealth of activities at Fan Fair X inside Music City Center. The air-conditioned venue hosted meet-and-greets, merchandise stalls, and interactive experiences. Dolly Parton’s ALL ACCESS! Pop-Up Experience was a major draw, featuring her global branding and merchandise, along with a preview of her forthcoming cookbook. The CMA Close Up Stage hosted Artist of the Day sessions with Cody Johnson, Thomas Rhett, and Lainey Wilson. Fan Fair X also featured panels and events celebrating the intersection of music and culture. Highlights included “Enlisted: Where Music Meets Military” with Craig Morgan and Gary Sinise, “Latin Roots: The ‘Equis’ Factor in Country Music,” and “50 Years at The Opry House” with Mark Willis and fellow Opry members. CMA Fest’s commitment to music education was front and centre, with performers donating their time to support the CMA Foundation. The foundation’s initiatives were showcased throughout the festival, including performances by high school marching bands and special appearances by music students at Nissan Stadium. Fitness fans also had their share of excitement with “Fitness at Fest,” featuring high-intensity workouts alongside favourite artists and celebrities. Musically Fed, an organisation fighting hunger through the music industry, donated excess food from the festival to local shelters and missions. Looking ahead, the 52nd CMA Fest is scheduled for 5-8 June 2025 in Nashville. Tickets will be available on 25 June 2024. Fans can stay updated by signing up for CMA’s Country Connection emails at CMAfest.com. Additionally, the three-hour primetime television special, “CMA Fest,” hosted by Jelly Roll and Ashley McBryde, will air on 25 June at 8/7c on ABC and stream the next day on Hulu. As CMA Fest closes one chapter and begins another, the festival continues to be a beacon of community, collaboration, and celebration for Country Music lovers around 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 Hannah Larvin, Editor, Maverick Magazine Tel: +44 (0) 1622 823 920 Email: [email protected]

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