CMA expands partnership with Country to Country Festival

The Country Music Association (CMA) has expanded its partnership with Country to Country Festival (C2C).

The trade organisation representing the country music industry says it is committed to expanding country music’s reach worldwide.

CMA presence across London, Glasgow, Berlin and Rotterdam

The CMA attended C2C last weekend and hosted the event’s Songwriter Series in London and the CMA Spotlight Stage in London, Glasgow, Berlin and Rotterdam.

On top of this, it hosted the first International Summit in London on Wednesday, March 11, which brought together industry leaders from across Europe.

Next year, C2C will be coming to Manchester for the first time. 

Dates for the multi-location UK festival, which will also be in London and Glasgow, have already been confirmed for Friday, March 12 to Sunday, March 14 2027.

Industry leaders highlight growth of country music in Europe

The invite-only International Summit at Soho Works was attended by over 140 people from the industry who took part in panel discussions and break out sessions.

Sarah Trahern, CMA Chief Executive Officer, said: “C2C continues to be a highlight of our year. From an unforgettable Songwriters Series to the excitement around the CMA Spotlight Stage in London and Glasgow and for the first time, Berlin and Rotterdam, this week was a powerful reminder of how deeply Country Music connects with fans around the world.

“It was also incredibly meaningful to host our first International Summit in London and bring together our partners across the UK and Europe to reflect on the continued growth we’re seeing throughout the region.

“The passion from fans and partners reminds us why this genre continues to thrive, and we’re excited to build on that progress.”

Jim King, CEO of AEG Presents UK and European Festivals, said:“The CMA Summit in London was an outstanding opportunity for connection, collaboration and genuine momentum for Country Music across the UK and Europe.

“Having so many leaders, promoters and partners together with such shared purpose made the conversations both energising and productive.

“The coordination and partnership investment that CMA brings to the genre is unique, and it remains a key driver of Country Music’s continued growth internationally.

“We’re excited about the opportunities ahead and proud to support CMA’s work in strengthening the genre’s development across global markets.”

CMA Songwriters Series and showcase of emerging talent

The sold-out CMA Songwriters Series on Thursday, March 12 at indigo at The O2, London was a chance for fans to experience a stripped-back showcase of unreleased songs and storytelling.

It was hosted by Keith Urban – one of the festival’s headliners – and featured Ashley Cooke, Emily Ann Roberts and Kristian Bush.

Over the weekend, the CMA Spotlight Stage played host to a number of emerging artists including Crowe Boys, Dylan Schneider, Elizabeth Nichols, Emily Ann Roberts, The Jack Wharff Band, Jade Eagleson, John Morgan, Julia Cole, Liam St. John, Mae Estes, McCoy Moore, Noah Rinker, Solon Holt and Tyce Delk.

The previous weekend, the CMA Spotlight Stage also featured at C2C in Berlin and Rotterdam for the first time in the event’s history.