Who Makes The UK-CMA Tick?
One of the founding principles of the UK-CMA is transparency and we feel it's really important that members and other interested folks know a little about each of the team members.
In this first of a series of posts we meet Morag Finch, UK-CMA Director of Finance and Operations
What spurred your involvement in the UK-CMA?
The Chair! (who also happens to be my husband).
On a more serious note, I was dismayed last year by some of the negative replies & comments on social media when Kezia Gill said her dream was to perform on the main stage at C2C.
I feel strongly that your nationality should not dictate where you are in the pecking order. I want everyone to be able to reach as high as their talent and determination can take them.
It’s a goal of UK-CMA to support and help everyone, not just artists, involved in UK country and at all levels, achieve their dreams.
What was your first gig, country or otherwise?
Hue and Cry – My first serious boyfriend was a big fan of Hue and Cry, and also Dundee FC (for which I forgive him) and took me along to a concert at Dundee University. I was hooked and still listen to them from time to time.
Who is your favourite US country act, past or present?
Kip Moore, although Dolly and Kenny Rogers will always have a special place in my heart as I grew up listening to them as my mum was a huge fan. My first date with my husband was to see Kenny in concert in Manchester – a very special night. I got to see Miss Dolly in person in 2024 at CMA Fest in Nashville.
Away from country music, what are your other passions and interests?
Hillwalking. I find the mix of effort required to climb up and down hills, the beauty of the scenery, and the serenity of nature, is restorative – helping to clear my mind and put everything into perspective.
Have you had a fun encounter with a country music star?
Riding “Guardians of the Galaxy” at Epcot in Florida with Sally and Steve from Gasoline & Matches. It was exhilarating but I’m not sure I want to do it again!
Which country song gets you through the day?
‘9 to 5’ by Dolly Parton. The rhythm fits whatever I’m doing – even running or housework.
What is one thing the UK country music community should be aware of?
The roots of country music embedded into the history of the UK, when our forebears emigrated to the East Coast and then on to the Appalachians (don’t get John our Chair started on that one)!
