The triumphant return of UK Americana Music Week
Americana lands in Hackney once again – and takes over! We take a look at the week of joy, unity and togetherness that has come to make the UK Americana Association a powerful force.
For the ninth consecutive year, the UK Americana Music Association transformed Hackney into a buzzing hub for Americana enthusiasts, hosting a weeklong celebration of music, culture, and storytelling. The streets came alive with people dressed in Afghan coats, cowboy boots, and a colourful array of hats—more than you could shake a stick at—adding an eclectic, bohemian charm to the atmosphere. Passersby strolled and skipped between venues, soaking in the vibrant community spirit that has become synonymous with this annual event.
The week began with the screening of ‘I’ll Take You There’, a poignant documentary that delves deep into Alabama’s storied music scenes and their significant role in the civil rights movement. The film is a tribute to both legendary musicians and unsung heroes who not only created iconic sounds but also shaped the social and cultural fabric of America. Through intimate storytelling and powerful visuals, ‘I’ll Take You There’ underscored the resilience and creativity that define Americana. It was a stark reminder of the profound influence music has in uniting people, breaking barriers, and driving change. This striking start to the week set the tone for the festivities, with a focus on the enduring themes of hope, resilience, and the power of art to inspire.
After this cinematic journey through history, the festival transitioned into its heart and soul: the artist showcases. Tuesday brought an unforgettable performance by Julian Taylor at ‘Canada House’ (a cleverly rebranded MOTH Club for the week). Taylor’s soulful lyricism shone brightly, captivating the audience with his heartfelt delivery. A highlight of his set was the song ‘Seeds’, inspired by the discovery of the remains of 215 Indigenous children at a former residential school in Canada. The track resonated deeply with the audience, becoming a moment of shared reflection and solidarity. Taylor’s performance was not only a call to remember and honour those who have been wronged but also a celebration of growth, resilience, and the strength to keep pushing for justice and recognition.
Later that evening, Jack Francis took to the Night Tales stage, delivering a performance steeped in tradition: one man and his acoustic guitar. But Francis’s set was far from ordinary. His humour, ease on stage, and emotive songs immediately connected with the crowd. The track ‘Failure’ was a standout, offering a self-deprecating yet hopeful reflection on the timeless struggles of artists battling their own perceived shortcomings. It struck a chord with the audience, its upbeat melody masking a deeply personal narrative. With his latest album, ‘Early Retirement’, Francis seems poised for greater things, and his showcase proved he’s closer than ever to achieving his dreams.
The centrepiece of the week was, of course, the UK Americana Awards, an evening dedicated to honouring the best and brightest in the genre. Among the night’s most unforgettable moments was CMAT’s triumph. The Irish artist scooped the award for well-deserved UK/Ireland Trailblazer Award and delivered a breathtaking acoustic performance of ‘I Wanna Be A Cowboy, Baby!’. Her commanding vocals and electrifying stage presence lit up the room, leaving no doubt as to why she’s rapidly becoming one of the most talked-about names in UK and Irish country music. With her unique blend of humor, vulnerability, and raw talent, CMAT is a force to be reckoned with. Looking ahead to 2025, fans eagerly await her highly anticipated new releases, which promise to further cement her place in the Americana scene.
The awards night carried a unifying theme, celebrating the diversity and inclusivity that Americana music embraces. As the world continues to change and challenge us, the festival was a reminder of the importance of coming together through shared values and love for the music. The atmosphere of the evening felt like a “broad church,” where every performer, whether established or emerging, was celebrated equally. The inclusivity and supportiveness of the Americana community were palpable throughout the night, making it a highlight of the week for many attendees.
The grand finale brought a legendary moment to the stage. Candi Staton, an icon whose music has transcended generations, closed the awards ceremony with an unforgettable performance. Joined by nominees and winners, Staton led the room in a rousing rendition of her timeless hit, ‘You Got The Love’. The song’s message of perseverance and hope felt especially poignant in today’s challenging times, reminding everyone in the room of the transformative power of music to heal and inspire. The chorus, sung by a collective of some of Americana’s finest voices, was a fitting end to a week that celebrated unity, resilience, and the boundless creativity of the genre.
As the festival wrapped up, the streets of Hackney returned to their usual rhythm, but the spirit of the event lingered in the hearts of all who attended. From the powerful storytelling of ‘I’ll Take You There’ to the stirring performances at the showcases and the unforgettable moments at the awards, the week was a testament to the enduring magic of Americana music. It is not just a genre—it is a movement, a feeling, and a way to bring people together in times of change and challenge. With its vibrant mix of tradition and innovation, the UK Americana festival once again proved why it has become such a beloved fixture on the cultural calendar. Here’s to the sounds, stories, and spirits that will inspire us for years to come.
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