Gasoline & Matches

Gasoline & Matches are a high energy, multi-award winning, dual fronted British band combining close harmonies, melodic guitar licks and serious musicianship. Fronted by Birmingham natives Sally Rea Morris and Stephen Marks, they are fierce entertainers known for their tongue-in-cheek and much-loved song "Never Have I Ever" described by Bob Harris as “Clever, funny, totally original…and it’s Country!” They built momentum after multiple spins on BBC Radio 2, and never fail to get festival goers on their feet to participate in the infamous drinking game which inspired the song. As resident hosts of Nashville Sounds in the Round, their Bluebird Cafe style songwriter round at Birmingham Symphony Hall, it’s clear to see their contribution & influence on Country and Americana music in the Midlands.

Blue Foley is a Grammy-nominated songwriter, artist, producer, and global music entrepreneur with more than two decades at the core of Nashville's songwriting community. His songs have been recorded by major-label and independent artists across multiple genres, including Ashley McBryde, Morgan Wallen, and Lainey Wilson, and have been performed on the Grand Ole Opry stage for nearly twenty years. Blue is the founder of Nashville Nights, an international songwriter platform with festivals and tours across the United States and Europe. In November 2025, he earned his 256th career cut with "Water in the River," recorded by Ashley McBryde.

Payton brings a fresh yet timeless voice to country music, blending traditional roots with soulful storytelling and a captivating stage presence. Inspired by her grandfather’s cherished record collection, she developed an “old soul” sensibility that shines through in every performance. At 15 years old, Payton moved to Nashville to pursue her dream, spending her days writing songs and her nights performing in the legendary honky-tonks of Lower Broadway. Since arriving in Music City, she has become a finalist on American Idol, collaborated with acclaimed songwriters and artists, opened for legends such as Charlie Daniels, and made her Grand Ole Opry debut at the historic Ryman Auditorium.
 

Known for delivering more than just a concert, Payton creates a live experience that blends authentic songwriting, powerful vocals, and genuine audience connection. Her dynamic performances leave audiences talking long after the final encore.
Beyond Nashville, Payton has taken her music to audiences across Europe, touring in Denmark, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and the Faroe Islands. She was also honoured to perform at the inaugural Nashville Nights Festival in Odense, Denmark, helping bring the spirit of Music City to fans across the Atlantic. Rooted in family and tradition, Payton’s powerful voice and authentic artistry resonate deeply with listeners. With her distinctive sound and growing international presence, she continues to bring her soulful take on country music to audiences around the world.

Stiko is an award-winning Swedish singer-songwriter whose Nordic Americana connects the storytelling traditions of Nashville with the landscapes and emotional honesty of Dalarna. Across eight albums, more than 25 million streams, national television appearances, and extensive Scandinavian touring, he has built a devoted audience through powerful songs, intimate storytelling, and an authentic stage presence. His remarkable career also includes 450 walking-tour concerts across Sweden that raised more than SEK 2 million for children's charities.