The CMA Awards 2024 Are Here!

It’s finally here—Country Music’s Biggest Night! The 58th Annual CMA Awards are set to dazzle tonight, November 20th, live from Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena. With Luke Bryan, Peyton Manning (who I'm still a little confused about!), and reigning Entertainer of the Year Lainey Wilson at the helm, this year’s event promises an unforgettable evening of stellar performances, heartfelt speeches, and surprises aplenty.

Who’s in the Running?

As with every year, the competition this year is intense, with top-tier nominees vying for the coveted titles:

• Entertainer of the Year: Heavyweights like Luke Combs, Jelly Roll, Chris Stapleton, Morgan Wallen, and Lainey Wilson are up for the honour.
• Album of the Year: Chris Stapleton’s Higher and Kacey Musgraves’ Deeper Well lead the pack alongside Cody Johnson’s Leather, Luke Combs’ Fathers & Sons, and Jelly Roll’s Whitsitt Chapel.
• Song of the Year: Chris Stapleton’s “White Horse” and Parker McCollum’s “Burn It Down” are just two of the moving tracks hoping to take home the prize.

Among the standout nominees, powerhouse Lainey Wilson shines with nine nods, making her the artist to watch, while Megan Moroney (who blessed us with her presence in the Netherlands just a few months ago!) earns her first Female Vocalist of the Year nomination. On a personal note, my all-time fave Kacey Musgraves continues to represent timeless country charm with three nominations this year - let's hope she nabs them!

Performances to Anticipate

Tonight’s show will feature performances from industry legends and rising stars alike. Chris Stapleton, Ashley McBryde, and Lainey Wilson will grace the stage alongside unique collaborations like Post Malone with Chris Stapleton (can't wait!), and Dierks Bentley teaming up with Molly Tuttle and others for a rendition of Tom Petty’s “American Girl.” With Luke Bryan performing his latest hit and a star-studded lineup, the night will be a feast for the ears.

My Picks for the Night

While all the nominees are deserving, I’m rooting for Lainey Wilson to clinch Entertainer of the Year for her unmatched contribution to the genre this year. Headlining C2C Netherlands in March next year, I think it goes without saying that Lainey is a lady who sure knows how to entertain. In terms of other categories, I’d love to see Chris Stapleton’s Higher secure Album of the Year for its soulful artistry and Kacey Musgraves triumph in Female Vocalist of the Year for her consistently innovative storytelling and unique take on country music. As for the rest, I'm excited to see who takes home the crown! 

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For Stateside fans, you can tune in live at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT on ABC or stream it afterwards on Hulu. For the rest of us, I'll see you in the YouTube comments tomorrow! Who are you hoping will take home the trophies? Let me know below!

Concert Review: C2C COUNTRY 2 COUNTRY 2023 (Day 3 Headliners), The O2, London

We returned to the Arena one more time for the final night of C2C 2024 (check out the earlier shows here), due to be full of varied performances, showmanship, and even a few surprises…

Drake Milligan, a.k.a. modern-day Elvis Presley, took the Main Stage by storm from the moment he tore onto the stage with Blue Suede Shoes. His playful rendition of the rollicking How Much Beer Can One Man Drink had the crowd dancing and singing along, endearing him to fans old and new alike. With songs like Tipping Point and Hating Everything She Tries On, I thought he absolutely showcased his versatility as an artist, effortlessly blending traditional country sounds with his own modern flair. Even for those less familiar with his music, there was still plenty to enjoy, from his high-energy cover of Pretty Woman to his adorable dance moves. And he knows how to work a crowd too - just when we thought the show was over, he called ‘you didn’t think I’d leave without playing one more song, did you?’ before treating us to Sounds Like Something I’d Do. From playing the indigo2 just a year prior to now gracing the Main Stage, it’s clear Drake is a star in the making, no doubt.

Over on the Spotlight stage, my personal fave Carter Faith took her turn to mesmerise us all. Dressed in a sleek, shiny black ensemble, Carter exuded confidence and poise as she effortlessly commanded the stage. First up was Cowboy Forever, where Carter’s angelic voice drew listeners in with each note. On Greener Pasture, her beautiful vocals filled the stadium, creating an atmosphere of intimacy and connection that shouldn’t work in a venue this large. Finally, she ended with Man, showing off some stellar songwriting skills that should have her up there with the best of the game. What a show!

Due up next on the Main Stage was Elle King, and I waited for a while after her band had taken to the stage before realising one of the people I had assumed was in her band was Elle herself, although unrecognisable since the last time I'd seen her. Unfortunately the sound quality for Elle’s set was awful, and I really couldn’t hear a word she was saying, but her confidence and coolness shone through throughout her entire set. With songs like America's Sweetheart, Worth a Shot, and the heartfelt I Got Lucky, written for her son Lucky, Elle showcased her versatility as an artist, effortlessly transitioning between genres and delivering each song with raw emotion and authenticity. A standout moment of her set was her performance of the hit single Ex's & Oh's, where Elle's charismatic stage presence and electrifying vocals left the audience in awe. Bringing Lily Rose back on stage for a lively cover of Drunk (And I Don't Wanna Go Home), Elle closed out her set on a high note, leaving the audience cheering for more despite the acoustic challenges.

Just after leaving Elle’s stage, Lily Rose was up on the Spotlight stage. Kicking off her set with the infectious hit Villain, Lily immediately had the crowd singing along. Lily's stage banter endeared her to the audience, particularly when she mentioned British fast food chain Greggs, eliciting a cheer from the crowd, as did the two new songs she played for us – Back Pew and Time Of My Life. I can’t quite put my finger on exactly what type of country Lily best fits in, but whatever it is, she’s doing it well!

Easier to fit into a specific style of country – and I’m definitely talking country-rock here – we had Brothers Osborne up next. From the moment they took the stage, Brothers Osborne were rocking out. Weed, Whiskey & Willie and Stay a Little Longer showcased their dynamic sound and undeniable stage presence with T.J.'s deep, soulful vocals resonating throughout the arena, perfectly complemented by his brother John's impressive guitar skills. As they delved into fan favorites like Shoot Me Straight and 21 Summer, the brothers kept the momentum going with nonstop music that had the crowd on their feet from start to finish. T.J. proved to be a master at engaging the audience, encouraging everyone to join in the excitement and dance along to the infectious beats. The energy reached a fever pitch during anthems like Rum and Burning Man, with the crowd erupting in thunderous cheers and applause – I really don’t think I’ve ever heard cheers quite that loud. Finishing with an insane 10-minute instrumental before It Ain’t My Fault, they highlighted that if you’re looking for a good show, you know where to find one. My ears are still ringing!

After the high-energy performance by Brothers Osborne on the mainstage, the festival continued with Annie Bosko taking the Spotlight stage. With her infectious energy and genuine gratitude, Annie kicked off her set with the feel-good anthem Life is Good, immediately getting the crowd clapping along. Transitioning seamlessly into a soulful rendition of Help Me Make It Through the Night, she showcased versatile vocal abilities and heartfelt delivery. The crowd swayed and danced to the rhythm of Neon Baby, before Annie closed with Honky Tonk Highway, leaving a lasting impression and a good feeling all around.

 

As the night reached its pinnacle, the stage was set for the headliner, Old Dominion, to deliver an unforgettable performance. The band kicked off their set with the infectious Make It Sweet, accompanied by stunning visuals that set the tone for the evening. It’s no surprise that I love Old Dominion, and they did a fantastic job of keeping us all engaged, seamlessly transitioning from upbeat anthems like No Hard Feelings to irresistible sing-along tracks like Never Be Sorry. As the setlist unfolded, Old Dominion treated the crowd to a mix of beloved hits and new tracks, including perhaps their first big hit Break Up with Him and the poignant Written in the Sand (do yourself a favour and give this a listen!)

Highlights of the night included the crowd favorite Hotel Key and a show-stopping cover of Cocaine alongside Brothers Osborne and Elle King. The energy was palpable as the band delivered one hit after another, captivating the audience with their infectious enthusiasm and undeniable chemistry on stage. As the evening drew to a close, the band returned to the stage for an encore, only to find that they couldn’t hear each other through their earphones. Nonetheless, this actually led to maybe the most special moment of the night, as they all huddled around one mic to perform Nowhere Fast – a moment that never would have happened without that difficulty! Luckly, all was fixed in time for their final song, the ‘can’t-help-but-join-in’ I Was On A Boat That Day. I loved them before and I’ll love them always, Old Dominion, please come back soon.

So there you have it, from old favourites to stars of tomorrow, another year of C2C in the books. My highlights? It’s got to be Carter Faith, Abbey Cone, Lauren Alaina and Old Dominion. If they keep bringing artists like that back (and some new ones too, please!), I’ll keep going. Were you at C2C? Let me know what you thought in the comments below :) Thanks for reading!

Concert Review: C2C COUNTRY 2 COUNTRY 2023 (Day 3), The O2, London

After a weekend that flew by, we’d already arrived at Day 3 of C2C Country 2 Country. But as the sun peeked through the clouds over London, there was still plenty of excitement in store, with a lineup that promised to showcase the diverse and vibrant tapestry of country music. Making my way back to the indigo2, I eagerly awaited the final acts on the BBC Radio 2 stage.

First up was Jordan Harvey, an Edinburgh native currently based in Nashville. Dressed in skinny jeans (which gave away his true nationality), he captivated the audience with his unique blend of Scottish charm and American twang. From the true-story song he’d written for his girlfriend, Alabama Girl to the infectious energy of his breakout hit Along for the Ride, Jordan's performance highlighted the universal appeal of country music. Claiming that there was one song he could sing better than any American out there, his cover of the Proclaimers' classic I Would Walk 500 Miles was a fitting finale, leaving the crowd cheering for more.

Following Jordan's show, the stage was set for Tanner Adell to showcase her own brand of country with a twist. Hailing from Star Valley, Wyoming, Tanner brought a fresh perspective to the genre, blending elements of R&B and pop into her sultry, seductive sound. Songs like See You at Church and Throw It Back showcased Tanner's playful spirit and dynamic vocal range, while her infectious energy and humour had the crowd on her side within minutes. I appreciated how much time she took to get us engaged, explaining that her style of country was ‘sexy and hot’ and she preferred to call it ‘funtry – fun country’. But it wasn’t all spicy songs that Tanner shared with us. My favourite? Luke Combs, a cutesy track about if she could be the girl in any country song, she’d want to be in a Luke Combs song. Well worth a listen.  

Leaving the indigo2 behind for a moment, I made my way to the Icon Stage to catch Halle Kearns, a rising star in country music and former Ciara’s Country interviewee. From the moment she stepped onto the stage, Halle's pure voice and magnetic presence captivated the audience, drawing us into her world of heartfelt storytelling and soul-stirring melodies. Songs like God Only Knows and Before He Could showcased Halle's raw emotion and vulnerability, while her cover of Maroon 5's Sunday Morning was a delightful surprise and very fitting for the drizzly Sunday morning we were all currently sharing. Closing out her set with the gorgeous ode to her husband Settling Down and the infectious Homemade Margaritas, I can only hope that this set has shown the C2C organisers that she more than deserved a place on a bigger stage next year.

Back at the indigo2, we got some new flavours of country with the next act, Redferrin. A former dirt bike rider turned country singer-songwriter, he took the audience on a wild ride with his electrifying set. From the moment he stepped onto the stage, it was clear that Redferrin was not your average country singer. With an unusual voice and undeniable charisma, he commanded the stage with ease, delivering a performance that was equal parts gritty and heartfelt. Songs like Stuck and She's Like Whiskey showcased his versatility as an artist, reminding me of the likes of Morgan Wallen and Florida Georgia Line (two artists whose music I grew up loving). But it was tracks like Midsummer and Champagne in the Morning that truly set him apart, offering a glimpse into his unique perspective and unapologetic attitude. This is a man to be reckoned with.

Switching gears from deep country to feel-good vibes, Annie Bosko was next on stage. With an infectious energy that lit up the room, her music was filled with uplifting melodies and catchy hooks, the perfect antidote to a rainy Sunday afternoon. From the breezy optimism of Life is Good to the heartfelt homage to Johnny Cash in Cash, Annie's performance was a celebration of all things country. Her cover of Patsy Cline's Crazy was a standout moment, with her voice soaring effortlessly over the timeless melody; and Dandelion, a hauntingly beautiful tribute to the victims of the Nashville school shooting, truly showcased her depth as an artist. It’s clear that Annie singing country is exactly where Annie should be, and she clearly loves it so much. Hard not to feel good after a set like that.

C2C isn’t all about new, up-and-coming artists, and sometimes we get a look at some ‘legends’ too. Having been around for many a year, Rita Wilson (also known as Mrs Tom Hanks), is more than a seasoned performer and well-known figure in Hollywood circles. Despite some vocal struggles, Rita's performance was full of charm and sincerity as she delivered a selection of heartfelt ballads and catchy tunes. From the energetic LBD to the poignant tribute to frontline workers in Where's My Country Song?, Rita showcased versatility and a love of the arts. While her songs reminded me more as those that would fit better in the background of a movie soundtrack than on a festival stage, I can see how uplifting songs like Throw Me A Party and Laugh Before I'm Gone could appeal to many.

Following Rita's performance, we had a very different style of music with Lily Rose. From the sassy swagger of Know My Way Around (just check out the way she says ‘single’) to the introspective honesty of I Don't Smoke, Lily was an artist with dynamic vocals and relatable lyrics. Her cover of Shania Twain's classic hit Man! I Feel Like a Woman! brought a nostalgic energy to the stage, while tracks like the unreleased Parking Lot offered a glimpse into Lily's own experiences and observations. Offering a mix of classic country and contemporary, she really reminded me of Ashley McBryde, and if Ashley’s career is any indication of how far Lily can go, I’ll be interested to watch.

A more than varied day on the indigo2 stage! And we still had one more night of Main Stage acts… curious to know what I thought of Elle King, Brothers Osborne, and Old Dominion? Review coming soon!

Interview: SOPHIA SCOTT, Country 2 Country (Part 2)

 

Life is good when you get to interview Sophia Scott! Check out Part 1 of my interview with the rising country star here, and read on for our discussion about life goals, new album 'Barstool Confessions', and what her and Willie Nelson have in common...

Ciara's Country (CC): I discovered you years ago on Spotify playlists, and it's nice to see your name appearing on there so often. What have been some of the biggest highlights of your career so far?

 

Sophia Scott (SS): Well, I would say this last year were two major ones, which was releasing my first ever album Barstool Confessions, and then the day after I did my debut with the Grand Ole Opry, which was quite exciting. Another highlight, of course, opening for Kelsea Ballerini and the Jonas Brothers.

 

CC: And now you’re playing C2C!

 

SS: I know, I'm so excited. I've always wanted to play here too.

 

CC: Dream come true. What else is on the bucket list?

 

SS: Red Rocks is number one on my list. I mean, obviously being from Colorado, but that venue is iconic in its own right. Being from there, having grown up going to shows there, being an outdoorsy girl.

 

CC: Oh my god, that would be an amazing hometown show, I'll make sure to get a ticket. Of course, we have to talk about Barstool Confessions. Talk me through the album title.

 

SS: The story behind that is that I used to be a bartender, and I've obviously spent a lot of time at the bar. I've been on both sides of it. I think that there's just something really beautiful and vulnerable about conversations that bartenders have or just conversations that happen at bars. People get really honest, especially the more drinks they have. I wanted the album to feel like a stranger wearing their heart on their sleeve and just telling you their life story. That's just country music to me. I went through a wild breakup this past year, and the best thing that I could do was to write about it. And then I was like, I guess I'm going to share this with the world and introduce them to me for anyone that didn't really know who I was. Being honest and vulnerable was tough but also really cathartic and a form of therapy for me.

 

CC: Do you have any songs that you wrote that were cathartic but maybe difficult to write because they bring up those memories again?

 

SS: Yeah Lipstick On You was hard for me to play at one point. Now I feel like my ex and I are actually on pretty good terms now and now I'm starting to sing it from a different point of view, it almost feels like it’s towards a different person. It's very interesting how songs change meaning, even songs that I wrote myself. They shake me. For example, I wrote Mullet Over almost eight years ago. That was the first time I wrote a song, and that was the one that got me to move to Nashville and kick-started my career. It's interesting how as life changes, those songs evolve in meaning.

 

CC: What I love about Barstool Confessions is that it shows your versatility as an artist. It's not all just one type of song, but it really takes you on a journey through so many different themes. Do you have a particular favourite?

 

SS: It changes every day. Initially, it was Watering Roses. Now, I really enjoy playing Mullet Over live. I'm sadly not playing it while I'm here because it doesn't really work as an acoustic song. But with a full band, it rips and it's fun on stage.

 

CC: You're gonna have so many people coming back to see that full band. And that's one of my favorite things about C2C - getting to see the artists that you've waited so long to see, but also discovering new ones as well. Are there any artists out there in the country music scene who you think people ought to be listening to?

 

SS: My girl, Alana Springsteen, is blowing up right now. I just went on tour with her in December. If you don't know about her, you should check her out (or read my interview with her here!). She's as lovely as a human being as she is as an artist. And I just think she's so talented, so hard-working. She's very inspiring.

 

CC: I would dig a joint tour between you two.

 

SS: It was really fun. So hopefully we can do another one in the future!

 

CC: Final question for you: what is one question you've never been asked in an interview but would love to be asked?

 

SS: Who's your style icon? Nobody ever asks me that.

 

CC: That's because we assume you are your own style icon! You’re my style icon right now.

 

SS: Haha, thank you! I actually have a couple. One is Cher, one is Posh Spice, and then of course Dolly.

 

CC: They need more turquoise though.

 

SS:  Oh, I know. I'm trying to think of who my hippie icon is. Low key Willie Nelson. He rocks the turquoise, a vintage tee and jeans. It's like my other vibe when this isn’t happening. That's the vibe.

 

CC: Thank you so much for taking the time to chat with me. It's been such a pleasure.

 

SS: That was fun!

A big thank you to Sophia for taking the time to chat with me! Looking for more country-related content and interviews! There are plenty more to come - stay tuned :) 

Interview: SOPHIA SCOTT, Country 2 Country (Part 1)

I love chatting to my favourite artists at places like C2C (did you see my interview with Carter Faith already?) and one artist I was very excited to talk with is Sophia Scott. Rising through the country ranks at an astronomical rate, she's definitely one to watch! Read on for our chat about her stay in the UK, what it means to be 'Colorado country', and how she ended up in Nashville. 

Ciara’s Country (CC): Get ready for an exciting interview, because today I’m joined by an artist making her mark on country music all across the globe. Sophia Scott has been regularly featured on Spotify's New Music playlists, has opened for the likes of the Jonas Brothers and Kelsea Ballerini, and last year released her debut album Barstool Confessions. Welcome, Sophia!

 

Sophia Scott (SS): Thank you so much. I'm so happy to be here.

 

CC: You’re joining me at C2C Country 2 Country in London - how are you feeling?

 

SS: Oh, my gosh, just energized. Honestly, I was pretty jet-lagged this morning. I didn't sleep much last night, but I just played a show and it woke me up! I'm just so happy to be here. I missed London. I love London so much.

 

CC: Maybe that's a new way to get over jet lag - jump straight into a show.

 

SS: Yeah, come on. That's the cure.

 

CC: You've already got your first taste of C2C, how does it compare to festivals back home?

 

SS: It's very unique. I honestly didn't know what to expect, I had only ever just heard about it and seen some videos, but then I walked in and the stage was so cool. The fans were incredibly engaged, there were some people singing along which made me very happy! I feel like they're very loyal. diehard fans. It was touching!

 

CC: I'd say after your performances this weekend that the fans will just grow in number! It’s your first time playing C2C but not your first time in the UK – are you happy to be back?

 

SS: I love it so much. I haven't had any Indian food yet but I'm going to tonight. And I love tea. And the shopping! I already went shopping so that was the first thing.

 

CC: Buy anything nice?

 

SS: Oh my god. Yes. A coat - it's like a cow hide fur coat, and a pair of cowboy boots.

 

CC: I would have thought they'd be easier to get back home!

 

SS: Well, it's something about here though, all the vintage stuff here. I couldn't move here because I would spend all my money on clothing.

 

CC: No, don't say that! We want you.

 

SS: For real! I've honestly thought about it a lot. Two of my friends are moving here, and they've been trying to convince me.

 

CC: Indeed, you’re a long way from your homestate of Colorado. In comparison to the likes of Tennessee and Texas, I’d say Colorado is not necessarily known necessarily as being the heartland of country music. Growing up there, what was it that appealed to you about country?

 

SS: I think what's interesting about Colorado is it's not Southern country music, but it's still Western culture. There's a lot of cowboys and a lot of horses. I grew up listening to country music, and I think what drew me to country music is the storytelling and the lyricism of it. While I also listened to R&B and blues and soul music, I made my own sort of hybrid of those sounds. I've always been a storyteller in songwriting and in life, so yeah, I think there was no real other genre for me. It was an easy path.

 

CC: And the right one it would seem! Do you think Colorado mountain country has made your music different from Southern country as well?

 

SS: Yeah, I say to people often in Nashville that being from Colorado is my whole personality. Everything I do is Colorado themed, basically. My style is very Colorado, I'm a big skier, I love nature. I love the outdoors. This country music, it's just my own version of it, I guess.

 

CC: Your style is awesome! I'm obsessed with your rings.

 

SS: Thank you. I have a ring problem. I bought a bag of them with me and I just dumped it out on the table and everyone was like, ‘oh my God, how many rings?’ I don't think I can put on anymore (laughs) But I do have more. Lots of turquoise.  My mom always wore turquoise and turquoise is also very like New Mexico, Colorado. West really. I love it.

 

CC: I feel like we're going to convert more people to go to Colorado. And indeed, Nashville wasn't the first stop on your journey into the music industry – you started out in California. Why there?

 

SS: I went to college in San Diego for a bit and I have a lot of family out there in Coronado, California and in San Diego. My roommate in college was actually working for Universal Music Group and he started a new YouTube channel. He was my biggest fan from day one and told me ‘you really need to move to LA with me and try this music thing’. So that was an easy next step. I think at that point, I was trying to  figure out who I was as an artist and musically. Then as I started formulating my sound and figuring out who I was, I started taking trips to Nashville. Every time I would go, I was like something about this just feels like it's calling my name. It just feels right. And ultimately, I was just like, why am I not there? I feel like I'm getting more done there. It's hard to be a country artist in LA, it's just not the same, you know? So then ultimately, I moved there and now I’ve been there five years!

We're not done yet! Sophia and I had so much more to talk about - check back in soon for Part 2 of our interview. Thanks for reading! 

Concert Review: C2C COUNTRY 2 COUNTRY 2023 (Day 2 Headliners), The O2, London

Saturday night is always a good time at C2C Country 2 Country, so I was excited to see what the evening’s events had in store for us after an incredible day at the smaller stages (read about them here!).

First up on the Main Stage was Priscilla Block, and let me tell you, she blew me away. Despite her relatively short time in the country music scene, Priscilla commanded the stage with the presence of a seasoned veteran. Dressed like a country Barbie, she exuded confidence as she belted out hits like My Bar and new song Hey Jack, instantly turning the arena into a rowdy dive bar. What impressed me most was her authenticity; Priscilla's genuine charm shone through as she shared personal stories behind songs like Me Part 2 – about discovering her ex’s new girlfriend looked just like her - and delivered a soulful rendition of Keith Urban's You'll Think of Me that rivalled even the original itself. But it wasn't all introspection; Priscilla brought the fun with tracks like Fake Names and the feisty empowering anthem Thick Thighs. A true force to be reckoned with in the country music scene.

Up next on the Spotlight stage, sister duo Tigirlily certainly knew what to do to get the audience engaged. From the playful Shoot Tequila to their heartfelt cover of Leona Lewis' Bleeding Love, they were commanding attention from the get-go with their infectious energy and irresistible harmonies. Ending with a performance of I Tried A Ring On, about how hard it is when you find out the one you thought was the one isn’t, struck a chord with many. Not bad for a first shot at the Spotlight stage!

Then came Brian Kelly, known to many as the ‘Florida’ behind Florida Georgia Line. Stepping into the spotlight solo, Brian showcased his own brand of country rock that had the audience on their feet from start to finish. Dressed in double denim and backed by visuals of the countryside, Brian transported us to the heart of country living with songs like Loving How We're Living and King Ranch (about a truck, of course). The biggest surprise of the night? His performance of Burning It Down, a song he penned for Jason Aldean, which showcased his songwriting prowess and undeniable charisma. As lovely as it was to have Brian in the O2 Arena, it’s clear his wheelhouse is definitely the beach, and he certainly took us all their, with songs like Party on the Beach and Beach Cowboy that truly captured the essence of summertime fun. I really didn’t know Brian’s music outside of FGL, but with this set he proved that he's more than just a member of a duo; he's a standout artist in his own right.

Next up on the Spotlight, Colbie Caillat, bringing her signature blend of breezy melodies and heartfelt lyrics to the eager crowd. Starting with the timeless hit Bubbly, Colbie's angelic vocals filled the arena with warmth and nostalgia. Her performance of I'll Be Here, a poignant duet she recorded with Sheryl Crow, was a much nicer look at the end of a relationship, whilst the uplifting Brighter Than the Sun left us feeling uplifted and inspired. From Brian’s beach party to the ray of sunshine that is Colbie Caillat, we were already all on a high, and the night was only half through!

Oh boy, talk about excitement building for the next act. Jake Owen, a familiar face from previous C2Cs, once again proved why he's a crowd favorite. From the moment he stepped onto the stage, Jake had the audience hooked with his infectious energy and catchy tunes. Sporting a fringe shirt and bold yellow trousers, Jake exuded confidence and charisma from the get-go, setting the tone for an unforgettable evening. Opening with the irresistible The One That Got Away, Jake wasted no time in getting the audience on their feet. 

Songs like Anywhere with You and Homemade showcased his ability to seamlessly blend country, pop, and rock into a captivating performance. With undeniable charisma, he took us on a musical journey from the laid-back vibes of Beachin' to the party anthem Down to the Honky Tonk (Jake, after that, we would go Anywhere With You!). As his set came to a close with hits like American Country Love Song and Barefoot Blue Jean Night, Jake left us all longing for more. Full of boundless energy and undeniable talent, Jake proved once again why he's one of the most beloved artists in country music today. A performance to remember!

Next up on the Spotlight Stage, young sensation Mason Ramsey. With his soulful voice way beyond his years, Mason captivated the audience with songs like Blue Over You and a crowd-pleasing rendition of Old Town Road. While he may have some room to grow, Mason Ramsey undoubtedly left a lasting impression, hinting at a bright future ahead in the world of country music.

And then, the moment we'd all been waiting for arrived: Brad Paisley. You know when people say ‘the atmosphere was electric’? They’re talking about the moment right before Brad Paisley comes on stage. Arriving in signature cowboy hat, guitar slung across his chest, the arena erupted in excitement, and we were immediately transported back through the many eras in which Brad has been country music’s king.  From classics like Ticks and Perfect Storm to heartwarming ballads like Waitin' on a Woman, Brad's performance was a masterclass in country music excellence, in terms of vocals, showmanship, and of course, legendary guitar skills. 

As the night progressed, Brad treated us to a journey through his illustrious career, from early hits like Online to more recent favorites like The Mona Lisa. Each song was accompanied by stunning visuals that enhanced the storytelling, whether it was Brad swimming with sharks (Water), being the worst celebrity alive (Celebrity), or embarking on a whimsical adventure with a water-skiing squirrel (Riverbank - where did he even find this video?!) Finishing up with I’m Gonna Miss Her and Alcohol – queue the arena-wide singalong – there’s a reason why the UK and the world keep clamouring for Mr Paisley to come back time and time again.

So there you have it - from up-and-coming talents to seasoned veterans, each artist brought something special to the stage on night 2 of C2C. Curious to see what happened on Day 3? Stay tuned for that, coming soon!

Concert Review: C2C COUNTRY 2 COUNTRY 2023 (Day 2), The O2, London

Feeling more refreshed than expected, I returned to the O2 for day two of C2C Country 2 Country. Day one had set the bar high, but I had a feeling that day two would offer its own unique blend of musical magic. Armed with my trusty notebook and a cup of coffee, I headed straight to catch the artists on the BBC Radio 2 stage.

The day began with an artist that I had loved the first time I saw her back at C2C in 2016, and I knew I would enjoy just as much the second time around: Brooke Eden. Despite the venue being less busy than it had been the day before, Brooke certainly didn't disappoint those of us who were there. Taking us on a chronological journey through the last few years, she kicked off her set with Whispering, a heartfelt ode to falling in love with her girlfriend while keeping it a secret. I loved how much Brooke interacted with the crowd, sharing stories and anecdotes between songs which really helped to create an intimate atmosphere in the indigo2. From the soulful Act Like You Don't to the empowering Left You for Me, Brooke's set gave us a glimpse into the progression of her life over the past few years. Each song was delivered with passion and crystal-clear vocals, before ending on the infectious Outlaw Love. Just as good now as she was eight years ago, I can’t wait to see her back on our shores again.

Next on stage was Shane Profitt, who took the stage with just him and his guitar. His down-to-earth demeanor and genuine passion for his craft immediately endeared him to the crowd. As he launched into songs like I Am Who I Am, both Shane's style and vocals reminded me of country heavyweight Luke Combs, so any Combs fans out there – Shane’s one for you! He shared with us his unconventional introduction to the music industry, running into Chris Janson in a sushi shop, sending him some songs, and being told to hand in his two-week notice and head on tour with Chris. How cool is that! His heartfelt performance of Good Luck and God got everyone illuminating the venue with their flashlights, whilst breakout hit How It Ought to Be had the audience swaying along. Humble beginnings and a bright future ahead – go Shane!

I was super excited to see the next artist – Abbey Cone – a name which had graced my Spotify Playlists more than a time or two. Making her debut appearance in Europe, Abbey brought a fresh energy and undeniable talent to the stage. She began with Who I Am Without You, her youthful voice filled the venue with a sense of raw emotion and authenticity. Het set really showcased her versatility as an artist, effortlessly transitioning between poppier songs like Hate Me to soulful ballads like the unreleased Beginning of the End (probably the best song I heard at the festival). The crowd hung onto her every word as Talk of This Town provided a poignant reflection on the highs and lows of chasing dreams in Nashville; and of course we had to finish with hit If You Were a Song which sounded just the way it does on the record. Abbey clearly has a rare talent that transcends boundaries, which undoubtedly made her one of the standout artists of the festival. Abbey’s star is on the rise, and I can't wait to see where her musical journey takes her next!

Saturday proved to be an excellent day for amazing artists, because next up was none other than Carter Faith. Despite battling food poisoning, Carter delivered an unforgettable set. With her ethereal vocals, she mesmerized the audience, drawing us into her world with songs like Cowboy Forever and Greener Pasture. If you want to get transported to a new universe, definitely check out her music. Throughout her set, Carter revealed different facets of her personality, from her crazy side in Already Crazy to her introspection in Missing You, a song she had written just two weeks prior. One of the highlights of her set was Lasso, a song inspired by the TV series Yellowstone, which showcased Carter's ability to craft compelling narratives through her music. As she closed her set with Man, a powerful anthem prefaced by her candid remarks, it was evident that Carter Faith had left an indelible mark on the festival. Carter, we’ll have you back on the Main Stage next year please.

The next name on the lineup might have surprised a few people – Mason Ramsey, formerly known as ‘Walmart yodeling kid’. 25 million views later and it was clear he was ready to showcase his talent on a bigger stage than the Walmart aisles could provide. Kicking off with Next Right Thing and the charming Falls Into Place, Mason's performance exuded a sense of maturity beyond his seventeen years. While his cover of Lil Nas X’s Old Town Road may have seemed out of place (but again, I feel like this song is one of the ones that comes up at every country festival), Mason quickly found his footing with his original track Famous, much to the delight of the crowd. However, it was his latest release, Blue Over You, that truly stole the show, transporting listeners to a bygone era of music with its nostalgic charm. It's evident that Mason shines brightest when he delves into timeless melodies. With more songs like this and a few more years under his belt, and I’m sure he has the potential to become a star in his own right.

I headed off to do some interviews with Carter Faith (check that out here) and Lakeview before returning to the indigo2 for Dylan Schneider's performance. From the moment he took the stage, it was clear that he knew how to command the crowd's attention. With boundless energy, he ran on stage, shouting at the audience, "Are you ready?”, full band behind him. Talk about late-night energy for an afternoon spot! Launching into songs like Right Girl and the poignant Two Black Exes, Dylan set the stage on fire, whilst his performance of Dustin Lynch’s Momma’s House, which he wrote, proved his skills as a songwriter. What impressed me most about Dylan was his ability to engage the crowd effortlessly, using the stage like he owned it during tracks like Bad Decisions and Ain't Missing You. Closing his set with his most famous track to date, How Does It Sound?, Dylan left the audience buzzing. With that kind of stage presence, there's no doubt that Dylan Schneider has what it takes to become one of country music’s Next Big Things.

Half of Day 2 in the books, there was still the Arena show to come. Keen to find out my thoughts on Brian Kelley, Jake Owen, Brad Paisley and more? Coming soon to this blog!