It was a privilege to sit down with one of the UK’s most promising country music talents, Rhiannon Paige, for an exclusive podcast interview. In this session, we at Ron’s Honky Tonk delved into her journey as an artist, exploring her unique challenges, inspirations, and plans for the future. With a captivating blend of country music fused with pop and rock influences, Rhiannon is carving her own path in the UK’s evolving country music scene.
Overcoming Early Challenges
Rhiannon’s story is one of resilience and passion. Born with OME (Otitis Media with Effusion) in both ears, she suffered from 70% hearing loss during the first eight years of her life. But despite this significant challenge, her desire to sing never wavered. She shared with us how, instead of succumbing to the negativity that could have surrounded her, she channelled her experiences into her music. One of her latest singles, “Lemonade,” is a reflection of this. The song isn’t about disliking the drink, but rather serves as a metaphor for the sour attitudes prevalent in today’s world—a theme that resonates with her own journey of perseverance.
A Self-Taught Talent
Despite her early struggles with hearing, Rhiannon’s passion for music sparked when she saw a fellow student singing and playing guitar at school. Inspired, she picked up her dad’s old Yamaha guitar and taught herself to play and sing, learning through YouTube tutorials. It was the start of her musical journey that would lead her to become a standout in the UK country scene.
Influences and Inspirations
During our conversation, Rhiannon shared her musical influences, and it’s clear that her sound is a unique blend of styles. Raised on the music of First Aid Kit (a Swedish folk duo), and later inspired by country stars like Kacey Musgraves and BlackBerry Smoke, she has cultivated a southern rock-inspired sound that sets her apart from the traditional country mould.
When asked in our Ron’s Honky Tonk exclusive podcast about her musical evolution, Rhiannon revealed that her best work is yet to come. She explained that she’s still on the path of discovering her true voice and identity as an artist, teasing that her future releases will showcase a more evolved version of herself.
Navigating the UK Country Scene
We also explored the growing divide between traditional US country music and the UK’s emerging country scene. Rhiannon is a firm advocate for British country fans supporting local talent, especially as American country artists often find it easier to build a following in the UK. While she acknowledges the great opportunities this brings for country fans in the UK, She believes that British country artists deserve the same recognition and support.
Rhiannon also addressed the misconception that to be a country artist, you need to fit the traditional stereotypes. “You don’t need to have grown up around pickup trucks and cowboy hats to sing country music,” she remarked, challenging the stigma against British artists who embrace the genre.
A Voice to Remember
Rhiannon’s talent isn’t just in her songwriting. Her powerful, raw voice has captivated audiences, including through her viral TikTok cover of Bonnie Tyler’s "Holding Out for a Hero." Her vocal style, reminiscent of LA blues artist Beth Hart, showcases her depth and soul—qualities undoubtedly shaped by her upbringing in a household filled with southern rock music, thanks to her dad.
What truly stands out about Rhiannon is her authenticity. She doesn’t conform to country music stereotypes, yet she exudes a southern/boho energy that feels genuine. On stage, she’s her own person—confident, bold, and unapologetically herself.
Catch Rhiannon Live!
Rhiannon will be performing at The Water Rats in London for Ron’s Honky Tonk’s second event on Friday, October 4th, 2024. Don’t miss the chance to see this rising star live! Grab your tickets here, and if you want to listen to our full podcast with Rhiannon, you can check it out here.
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