Jade Helliwell is one of the most talented and exciting country artists in and around the UK scene at the moment and her latest EP ‘Infatuation’ is gaining her new fans every day. The fast rising star has also played the Nashville meets London festival, has won the British Country Music Association female vocalist of the year award and was also been nominated for 4 other country awards this past year.
And she is also becoming an ambassador for grassroots music. Her role saw her supporting unsigned acts at the Firestone Road to the Main Stage Competition which was set up as a launch for grassroots music. It is took place on the 3rd of September at the Victoria Pub in Dalston, and was hosted by Abbie McCarthy from BBC Introducing featured live music from Jade.
Here we speak exclusively to Jade Helliwell to discuss the competition, UK Country scene, and upcoming plans:
Can you talk us through a little of what the Firestone’s Road to the Main Stage competition is about?
The Road To The Main Stage is a competition all about supporting unsigned and emerging artists with Firestone being longstanding supporters of grassroots music. The winners of the competition win some unbelievable prizes. Live dates (last year’s winner’s ‘Fire Fences’ played at All Points East!) A van to get around to gigs, Orange Amps, money towards equipment from PMT and also money to put towards their product. It’s a fantastic opportunity and all about Firestone bringing music lovers together for authentic music experiences!
Can you tell us a little more about the VIP night that took place earlier this month?
The VIP night was a pleasure to be a part of. We had lots of artists down to help launch the competition and hear a little more about Road To The Main Stage. Last year’s winner’s Fire Fences performed and we got to learn about their journey since winning the competition. I also had the chance to perform and joined forces with Fire Fences for a special performance of ‘Hallelujah’. We ended the night with an intimate songwriters session in the main area. Such a fun night!
Where do you feel your own music fits into the current scene?
I think my music fits into the current scene pretty well. It’s a blend of country and pop. A genre that is having a boost at the moment with success stories from the likes of Catherine McGrath, Ward Thomas, The Shires and The Wandering Hearts. I’d love to play a part in bringing the genre forward in the UK
What can we expect from you this year?
Before the year ends I hope to have some new music released. Along with that a new music video, some gig announcements also coming soon and lots of co-writing!
Make sure you follow Jade Helliwell on Twitter @jadehelliwell2 on to keep up to date with all her latest music and tour news!
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