Music
Beds & Herts duo The Shires announce online concert
The Shires are a duo from Bedfordshire & Hertfordshire who are innately passionate about demonstrating the continued relevance of their UK perspective on country music. Made up of Ben Earle and Crissie Rhodes, the pair create music that draws from classic elements of the genre, whilst delivering singalong, mellow experiences within their forward-thinking tales.
Although 2021 sees The Shires delay their scheduled tour due to current COVID-19 restrictions, they are thrilled to announce a very special worldwide concert online for the beginning of April.
Bedfordshire & Hertfordshire duo – The Shires
About The Shires
The Shires are two relatable, exuberant friends that have confessed awe in each other’s vast skillset. With just their guitars, obsessive song-writing and vocal ability, the British duo have sold-out the prestigious Royal Albert Hall, become the first home country act to reach the top ten of the British album charts and even enjoyed a performance at the Royal Wedding on BBC Radio 2. The Shires carried this successful streak into 2020 with the release of their fourth album, Good Years. Recorded in the home of Country music, Nashville, the body of work concentrated on the authentic storytelling and the seamlessly blended vocals the duo have crafted a reputation for.
Upcoming performances by The Shires
The online concert, on the 10th April, will feature Ben and Crissie (and their band) relishing in the part of their musical career they love the most, performing. Creating an atmospheric live experience, the concert is presented with unbelievable sound quality and will boast their most prominent songs, including Daddy’s Little Girl and I Just Wanna Love You.
The Shires will be performing live at Bedford Corn Exchange. This event’s performance date was changed (the old date was Sunday, 16 May 2021 at 7:00 PM). The show will now take place on Friday, 13 May 2022 at 7:00 PM.
Tickets go on sale here. Find new tour dates linked here.
With transatlantic roots and a sound that feels both nostalgic and new, Jonny Morgan is one of the most compelling singer-songwriters to emerge from the UK indie-folk scene. His heartfelt, cinematic style will take centre stage at Henley Festival 2025, as he joins a curated list of RISE musicians lighting up the Thames.
Bridging UK Folk with Americana Depth
Jonny’s story is written in movement. Raised in the UK but deeply inspired by American roots music, his artistry blends ambient textures with emotional storytelling—earning him the 2024 UK Americana Music Association’s ‘Emerging Artist of the Year’ award.
His debut album ‘Good Luck With the Music’ (2023) showcases his distinct ability to create spacious, soul-bearing songs with wide appeal—perfectly balancing the intimate with the epic.
Henley Festival: A New Chapter in a Growing Journey
As one of the standout performers on the RISE Stage this summer, Jonny Morgan will bring his warm stage presence and deeply resonant songs to Henley’s audiences. Expect lyrical honesty, acoustic richness, and moments of shared reflection.
Whether you’re a long-time indie-folk fan or new to the genre, Jonny’s set is sure to connect.
This is music for anyone who’s ever felt caught between worlds—and found beauty in that space.
See Jonny Morgan live at Henley Festival’s RISE Stage, 9–13 July 2025.
Learn more about the full programme at henley-festival.co.uk
Darcy Winter is quietly shaking up the UK’s alternative scene—and this summer, she’ll bring her genre-defying blend of jazz-pop to the RISE Stage at Henley Festival 2025.
Hailed as a “rising star” by Wonderland Magazine, Darcy has spent the past year creating a real community on the London circuit. Her sound is equal parts sultry and bold—lush jazz chords meet heavy basslines and raw, soulful lyrics, giving listeners something both familiar and fresh.
From Bristol Roots to Festival Spotlight
Darcy’s music carries the DNA of her upbringing. With formative years spent in Bristol and a love of jazz passed down from her dad, she’s shaped her own unique blend of sonic influences. Her debut album, released earlier this year, delivers that signature warmth and depth: smoky vocals, intimate lyrics, and a live energy that translates straight into her recordings.
The Henley RISE Stage: A Natural Home
Appearing on Henley Festival’s RISE Stage is a fitting step for Darcy. The platform champions emerging artists with vision, originality, and real talent—something Darcy has in abundance. Her performance promises to be immersive, emotional and unforgettable.
“Classic with an edge” isn’t just a tagline—it’s the backbone of everything she creates.
Expect mood-driven melodies, captivating vocal runs, and a fiercely personal set.
Catch Darcy Winter at Henley Festival’s RISE Stage, 9–13 July 2025.
Find out more about the RISE programme and full line-up at henley-festival.co.uk
From Swansea to the Thames, Leila McKenzie brings bold vocal finesse and cross-genre vibrancy to the Henley Festival’s RISE Stage on Wednesday 9 July. Tipped as the UK’s next breakthrough R&B/pop voice, she’ll blend bold lyrics with fierce energy under the open skies of one of Britain’s most elegant summer festivals.
A Sonic Fusion Rooted in UK Garage, R&B & Pop
McKenzie’s craft defies simple categorization. Born in Wales to Jamaican heritage, her sound marries the tight grooves of UK garage and 2-step with smooth R&B melodies and pop-savvy structure. Henley’s description highlights her “striking vocal energy” and genre-bending style — a sound that has already resonated with listeners across the UK.
Breaking Through: Festival Booking & Social Buzz
Her performance on the RISE Stage isn’t the only sign of her rising star. Announced through her own channels, Leila excitedly shared booking news:
“Only went and booked my first festival slot of the year—catch me on the RISE stage this July at @henleyfestival”
What to Expect at Henley Festival
Attending Henley Festival? Here’s why McKenzie’s set is one to catch:
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Vocal power meets poetic flair: Soulful delivery layered over rhythms steeped in British club culture
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Festival-ready energy: Her announcement reflects a fierce, stage-ready persona
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A start of something special: As one of RISE’s highlighted acts, her presence signals real momentum
Listening In: Where to Discover Leila
Though her debut festival slot is her most public performance yet, McKenzie’s online presence is an inviting entry point: https://linktr.ee/leilamckenzie
Why Her Performance Matters
Henley Festival’s RISE initiative spotlights artists on the verge of wider acclaim, and McKenzie’s inclusion confirms her promise. Her blend of UK sounds with heartfelt expression fits the festival’s elegant yet adventurous ethos — especially in a black-tie, riverside setting.
Expect something warm, personal and musically adventurous: a set that bridges acoustic warmth and club-ready rhythms, ideal for Henley’s eclectic audience.
