Country music has been making waves in the UK, and this summer, it reached new heights with standout performances at two of the country’s most iconic festivals: Glastonbury 2024 and BST Hyde Park 2024.
Glastonbury 2024: A Country Music Triumph
Glastonbury 2024 saw a remarkable presence of country music, with Shania Twain taking the legendary Sunday afternoon slot on the Pyramid Stage. Twain’s performance was a nostalgic journey through her greatest hits, including “Man! I Feel Like a Woman” and “You’re Still the One”. Her set was described as an intimate joy, blending her classic hits with a nod to her roots, creating a unique and memorable experience for the audience.
Twain’s command of the stage and her ability to connect with the crowd highlighted the universal appeal of country music. Her nearly all-female band added a fresh and empowering dynamic to the performance, making it one of the standout moments of the festival.
While Shania Twain was a major highlight, several lesser-known country artists also made a significant impact at Glastonbury 2024 – the Stone Jets, a 3 piece rising star, captivated audiences with lead singer Given Nkanyane‘s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics. The Staves, known for their harmonious vocals and folk-country blend, delivered a mesmerizing performance that left a lasting impression.
BST Hyde Park 2024: Morgan Wallen’s Electrifying Performance
At BST Hyde Park 2024, Morgan Wallen headlined a night that celebrated the growing popularity of country music in the UK. The concert now holds the record for the highest audience ever in the UK for a live country music performance at 50,000 fans. Wallen’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, with fans donning cowboy hats and boots, fully embracing the country spirit.
Wallen’s set included hits like “Ain’t That Some,” “One Thing at a Time,” and “Sand in My Boots,” showcasing his versatility and ability to engage the audience. His intimate renditions of songs on a smaller stage provided a rare opportunity for fans to appreciate his vocal prowess and the band’s instrumental skills.
The energy at Hyde Park was electric, with Wallen’s charisma and stage presence captivating the crowd. His performance marked a significant milestone as he became the first country headliner at BST Hyde Park, solidifying country music’s place in the UK festival scene. His set was supported by rising stars like Ella Langley, Alexandra Kay along with country-rocker Alana Springsteen.
BST Hyde Park also featured some emerging country talents – Riley Green, known for his neo-traditional influences, made his UK debut with a performance that blended Southern charm and rock-infused country. Jessy Blakemore, another rising star, brought her unique style and powerful vocals to the stage, earning new fans with her captivating set
The Growing Influence of Country Music in the UK
The success of country music artists at Glastonbury and BST Hyde Park is a testament to the genre’s growing influence in the UK. These performances not only entertained but also highlighted the genre’s ability to connect with diverse audiences. As country music continues to gain popularity, we can expect to see more country artists headlining major festivals and captivating audiences with their heartfelt lyrics and infectious melodies.
For more updates on country music events and artists, stay tuned to countrymusic.co.uk. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the genre, there’s never been a better time to embrace the country music wave sweeping across the UK.