Biography: Janet Devlin

Janet Devlin: Viral X Factor Finalist to Authentic Country-Rock Artist at The British Country Music Festival 2025

Janet Devlin is a Northern Irish singer-songwriter and a notable newcomer to UK country music. Her journey from viral X Factor UK finalist in 2011 to authentic country-rock music artist showcases her musical evolution. Devlin’s 2021 alt-country single “Place Called Home” marked her entry into the genre, followed by her acclaimed country-infused album “Emotional Rodeo.”  

Recorded at Martina McBride’s Blackbird Studio in Nashville, Devlin’s album achieved significant success, reaching #1 on iTunes Country Charts and #4 on the UK Official Country Artists Albums Chart.  

In addition to her music career, Devlin starred in a BBC One documentary titled “Janet Devlin: Young, Female and Addicted,” addressing her struggles with alcohol addiction.

A Journey of Authenticity and Musical Growth

Throughout her career, Janet Devlin has been open about her mental health. Therefore, she uses her music to explore vulnerability and self-acceptance. Her 2020 album, ‘Confessional,’ was very personal. It came with a memoir about her struggles with addiction and mental illness. However, this was just the beginning of her musical journey.

After that, Devlin embraced her love for country music. In 2021, she released her first alt-country single, “Place Called Home.” Afterward, she worked on her third album, ‘Emotional Rodeo.’ She collaborated with talented songwriters including Ben Earle from The Shires and Kaity Rae as well as Jamie Sellers and Ian Barter. In 2022 and early 2023, she refined the tracks. Another key highlight was when Russell Crowe invited her to open for him in Australia and Europe. This touring experience further solidified her determination to make ‘Emotional Rodeo’ a reality.

Friday I’m In Love

Janet Devlin’s debut album “Running With Scissors” has achieved significant success, reaching the top spot on the UK Independent Album Charts. The record, primarily composed by Janet herself, was completed in a remarkably short six-week period. It features collaborations with notable artists, including Newton Faulkner, who co-wrote “Creatures of The Night” and “Hide And Seek,” and Jack Savoretti, who contributed to “Delicate”. 

The album also includes an unexpected rendition of The Cure’s classic “Friday I’m In Love”. Janet’s captivating cover resonated strongly with Spotify listeners, amassing nearly 20 million streams. Most of these streams are the backdrop to working in the TBCMF’s office on Friday afternoons. This particular cover showcases the distinctive quality of her voice, demonstrating her ability to bring a fresh, soulful interpretation to a well-known classic.

“Emotional Rodeo”: A Country Music Statement

Janet Devlin’s ‘Emotional Rodeo’ is more than just an album. Instead, it’s a statement of self-acceptance. The title track is a metaphor, it represents the highs and lows of relationships.

The album blends country-rock with her heartfelt lyrics. It tackles relationships, mental health, and self-discovery. It reflects Devlin’s personal battles with Borderline Personality Disorder (BPD), drawing inspiration from Chris Stapleton and Tim McGraw, and Megan Thee Stallion and Doja Cat.

Her single “Red Flag” was featured on BBC Radio 2’s playlist, elevating Devlin’s stature and showcasing the track’s universal appeal.

Nashville Roots and Modern Inspiration

Devlin collaborated with several trailblazing country music artists on her album ‘Emotional Rodeo’, including American harmonica virtuoso and multi-instrumentalist Charlie McCoy, who has worked with Bob Dylan, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Roy Orbison, and Rob McNelley, a three-time winner of the Academy of Country Music’s Guitar Player of the Year award. Rob is known for his slide guitar work with Bob Seger, Carrie Underwood, Dolly Parton, and Keith Urban.

These collaborations took place at Martina McBride’s Blackbird Studio in Nashville, adding to the authentic country sound of the album. The involvement of these seasoned musicians, who have worked with some of the biggest names in country and rock music, contributed to the album’s blend of classic Nashville country with a contemporary twist.

“What Janet has created is a collection of songs that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable, a true reflection of her evolving sound and identity as an artist.” The Luna Collective

“A Masterpiece From The Heart Of Nashville” Voice Mag

A Powerful Voice Beyond Music

In addition to music, Devlin starred in a documentary, part of the BBC One Mental Health Season . It was titled “Janet Devlin: Young, Female and Addicted.” In it, she confronts her alcohol addiction. She also meets other young women affected by problematic drinking and it became one of the platform’s top streamed documentaries. As a result, Devlin’s commitment to authenticity has made her a powerful voice in music. She resonates with listeners around the world.

Don’t Miss Janet Devlin at The British Country Music Festival on Friday 29th August 2025!

Janet Devlin’s journey is one of resilience and musical exploration. Therefore, her performance at The British Country Music Festival 2025 on Friday night is a must-see. Come and experience her unique blend of country, folk, and pop. Get ready for an unforgettable show!

Album Success

• #1 iTunes Country Charts
• #4 UK Official Country Artists Albums Chart
• #5 UK Official Indie Breakers Chart
• #21 UK Official Independent Album Chart

Breaking News: Live From Belfast Ahead of C2C

Friday 14th March 2025:  Janet was fantastic on the Radio 2 Breakfast Show with Scott Mills this morning. They had a great chat, followed by her excellent performance of “Red Flag.” After another conversation, she performed a beautiful rendition of “The Gambler” by Kenny Rogers. You can listen to the entire segment here: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sounds/play/m0028lgw 1 hour, 38 minutes, and 22 seconds.