CMA Songwriters Series returns for second UK tour

Chris Destefano: joins the tour for his first UK performances. Pic: Jody Richfield

The annual country music tour brings a mixture of established songwriters and ‘rising stars’ to five UK venues this autumn

The Country Music Association’s Songwriters Series will return to the UK this autumn. Currently in its 14th year, the CMA has hosted over 100 shows across the US. It’s second UK tour will begin in Glasgow on 16 October and includes Liverpool, Gateshead, Manchester and London.

The tour ties in with Country Music Week which takes place between 16-22 October. The event is unique as it introduces artists to new audiences through a storytelling format, which allows music fans to get to know the artists and the stories behind their songs. The two-hour long show invites artists to take turns sharing a story before performing acoustically.

This year, tour favourite Ashley Campbell will be joined by Chris DeStefano, Kassi Ashton and Tenille Townes for their first UK performances, as the CMA continues their global expansion plan. In the UK, country music streaming increased to 50 percent in 2018 compared to figures in 2017. The rediscovery of country music is reflected on mainstream radio with British and Irish artists like Catherine McGrath, The Shires and Ward Thomas all receiving continuous airplay.

Ashley Campbell, daughter of music legend Glen Campbell, will make her fourth appearance on the tour. She is joined by this year’s host, Grammy award-winning singer-songwriter and producer, Chris DeStefano. Also, on the line-up is Kassi Ashton, who is described as a rising star in the country music scene. Canadian Tenille Townes, who’s lyrical talent has been compared to Adele, completes the line-up.

CMA Vice President, Milly Olykan, said: “The artists on this tour represent a true cross-section of country music and we’re honoured to be part of their journey as they build their international base.”

CMA Songwriter Series full tour dates and venues:

• Oct 16: St Luke’s, Glasgow
• Oct 17: St. George’s Hall, Liverpool
• Oct 18: Sage Two, Gateshead
• Oct 20: Royal Northern College Of Music, Manchester
• Oct 22: O2 Shepherd’s Bush Empire, London

Tickets are availble from axs.com

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