Who Makes The UK-CMA Work?
As Director of Education for the UK-CMA, Hannah is the driving force behind the organisations personal development programme. So what drives Hannah in her quest to help artists and others in the UK country music scene?
What spurred your involvement in the UK-CMA?
I have been involved in the UK country scene for nearly 10 years now. I started as a singer-songwriter and performer before moving into the event space with Country on the Coast Festival, and then into the radio world by hosting a weekly country radio show.
Throughout this journey, I’ve experienced the welcoming vibe of the community, but also a certain element of secrecy surrounding success and opportunities, a real contradiction at times!
I felt like I had to learn everything from scratch, as there were no supportive organisations in the UK dedicated to developing artists in this genre. While there are commonalities and growth strategies relevant to all genres, there’s something special about the country scene that deserves more support than it has received.
Having already begun to assist UK country artists with branding, social media, and artist management, I was thrilled when I was invited to be part of this exciting new organisation. I jumped at the chance!
What was your first gig, country or otherwise?
Oh gosh, that requires me to think back! I grew up immersed in musical theatre, and my parents had a very eclectic taste in music. The first live gig I attended was The Chicks during their Fly tour at the Frank Erwin Centre in Austin, Texas, in August 2000. It feels like both a lifetime ago and just yesterday!
It was at this concert that I was introduced to the more modern country sound by my cousin Jenny, who lived in Austin, and I was instantly hooked: the storytelling, the vibe, the instruments, and the performances of those three women and their band have stayed with me ever since. I was thrilled to see them again in 2023 when they came to the UK. Although Jenny has sadly passed away, her memory lives on in that shared experience and the profound influence it has had on my musical journey. I may have had a tear in my eye and a lump in my throat throughout that night in 2023!
Who is your favourite US country act, past or present?
Building on the previous question, it would have to be The Chicks! Despite the controversies surrounding them, they never gave up and remained steadfast in their beliefs and passions. Even when it felt like the world was against them, they came back fighting, consistently creating great music and performing as though their lives depend on it. Their musical talent, storytelling through songwriting, and infectious energy are among the greatest I have ever witnessed, making them my number one!
Away from country music, what are your other passions and interests?
Is there anything beyond country music?! I mentioned musical theatre earlier, and that is a huge passion of mine. I love going to the theatre and getting engulfed in the magic of the story. I’ve been performing in musicals since I was five years old, taking on lead roles in productions like Grease, Legally Blonde, and Little Shop of Horrors, as well as being part of the ensemble in Sister Act: The Musical. I've always thought that musical theatre is one of the closest genres to country music because of its rich storytelling. I also played the clarinet and piano as a child and dabbled in guitar, so my life has always revolved around music in some way.
Another passion of mine is horses. From as early as I can remember, I dreamed of having my own pony. I'm not sure if it's the love of the animal or the sense of freedom that comes with riding that captivated me, but I recently returned to horse riding after many years away. It's the one time in my week when I feel truly present! Plus, it connects to country music and the aspects of the US way of life that I adore. I may live just outside a city in the south of England, but my spirit roams the countryside and hills on horseback!
Which country song gets you through the day?
I definitely go through phases with songs at the top of my list, so narrowing it down to just one is nearly impossible! So, I’m going to be a rebel and share my top three. All of them may bring a tear to my eye, but they also remind me of the power of storytelling and the importance of inner strength!
1. ‘Not Ready to Make Nice’ by The Chicks
2. ‘Temporary Home’ by Carrie Underwood
3. ‘Second Wind’ by Maren Morris
What is one thing that, in your view, the UK country music community should be aware of?
We have incredible talent right here on UK shores, and it needs to be celebrated far and wide! More importantly, the UK has the potential to create its own distinct version of country music. We have our own inspirations and stories from country life to share; while drawing influence from the US and the country traditions we admire – I’m never far from my Western boots! – it is essential that we do so in a way that resonates with the artist's own experience. Just as Australia has developed its own unique vibe, and European countries like Sweden have done the same, let’s embrace that spirit in the UK!
