The Shires confirmed today that being British doesn’t mean you can’t succeed in Nashville when quizzed on BBC Breakfast this morning about the US reaction to their British take on the Nashville sound.
The British country duo, who are the only British band to ever have a hit album in the UK, worked on tracks for the album in Nashville and found that the American songwriting fraternity and artists including Little Big Town and Brad Paisley were supportive of their passion for country music, and were unfazed by their nationality.
Ben Earle stated: “They love it. Being British it’s definitely a talking point, but I think what’s great about Nashville, is when you get in the room and start writing the differences go out the window and there is a mutual respect.”
The Shires also confirmed that they are more scared about performing at their coming Nashville live debut on American radio show Grand Ole Opry, than they are of performing at this year’s Glastonbury Festival.
The Nashville based radio show, which has hosted country stars from Dolly Parton to Johnny Cash, is considered the home of country music and an invite to perform is a mark of success and respect for any country music artist. Ben Earle confirmed: “There is nothing like it in any other genre!”
The band also dismissed stereotypes of country music still held by some UK music fans. Crissie Rhodes stated: “Country music has evolved so much since the rhinestones, Stetson’s and cowboy boots, I urge everyone to listen to the sound of new country.”
The Shires also launched a twitter campaign today to get their album back in the top 10 of the UK album chart. Tweet hashtag #Ukcountry4top10 to show your support.
Finally The Shires launched an amazing competition today to win a trip to Nashville to watch them perform on the Grand Ole Opry, visit to find out more details: http://www.pulse1.co.uk/win/win-a-trip-to-nashville/
Check out the recent Music-News.com exclusive interview below.
