Jonny Morgan, the 2024 UK AMA ‘Bob Harris – Emerging Artist of the Year,’ blends ambient Americana soundscapes with heartfelt storytelling, drawing inspiration from both sides of the Atlantic.
Biography: Jonny Morgan
Jonny Morgan: UK’s Americana Rising Star Set to Shine at British Country Music Festival 2025
Jonny Morgan, the 2024 UK AMA ‘Bob Harris – Emerging Artist of the Year,’ blends ambient Americana soundscapes with heartfelt storytelling to make him one of the UK’s most exciting emerging talents. His unique transatlantic sound has earned him critical acclaim and a growing fanbase.
The Rise of Jonny Morgan
Born in Sherborne, Dorset, Jonny Morgan has quickly established himself in the UK’s Americana scene. His journey began with a childhood spent between England and America. This transatlantic upbringing heavily influenced his musical style. His early exposure to American roots music helped shape his distinctive sound.
After touring across North America in 2022, Morgan returned to London in early 2023. He then released his highly anticipated debut album ‘Good Luck With the Music’. The album received support from BBC INTRODUCING, Mahogany Sessions, and Absolute Country. Furthermore, this release cemented his reputation as a rising star in the indie-folk and Americana genres.
His talent hasn’t gone unnoticed by industry veterans. Legendary BBC Radio 2 presenter Whispering Bob Harris once said: “Every now and again comes a musician who has an indefinable something that makes them special. Call it the X factor or star quality. Whatever it is, Jonny has got it!”
Musical Style and Influences
Morgan’s sound is distinctively his own. He creates ambient and emotive soundscapes that connect deeply with listeners. His music draws inspiration from acclaimed artists like The War On Drugs, Alabama Shakes, Nathaniel Rateliff, and Michael Kiwanuka.
“Taking a contemporary singer-songwriter sound, pushing it through ambient soundscapes, washing it out until it has a hazy spaciousness, adding shimmering lush vibes and chiming, and indeed charming sonics, Jonny Morgan has created an album that is worthy of the word gorgeous,” writes Dancing About Architecture in their review of ‘Good Luck With the Music’’.
The album showcases Morgan’s range. It moves between “the almost empty spaces of Turbulence and the robust, soul-infused, swaggering folk romp of Straight and Narrow”. This versatility demonstrates his skill as both a songwriter and performer.
Notable Performances and Recognition
Morgan’s live performances have taken him to some impressive venues. He made his Glastonbury debut in 2019. Since then, he has performed at iconic venues, including Union Chapel, the Bluebird Cafe in Nashville, Black Deer, and O2 Academies.
The start of 2024 marked a significant milestone in Morgan’s career. He performed at the UK AMA Awards alongside industry heavyweights Jason Isbell, Drew Holcomb, and Michele Stodart. During this event, he received the prestigious ‘Bob Harris – Americana Emerging Artist of the Year 2024’ award. This recognition highlights his growing impact on the UK Americana scene.
According to the AMA-UK Awards announcement, “Shining a spotlight on exciting new talent, Bob Harris OBE chose Jonny Morgan for his 2024 Emerging Artist Award”. This endorsement from one of the UK’s most respected music broadcasters speaks volumes about Morgan’s potential.
Recent Releases and What’s Next
Morgan’s musical catalogue continues to grow. His latest release is “Safe Space (Feat. Fran Lusty)”. He has also released seasonal music with “It Doesn’t Feel Like Christmas (The Slightly More Festive Version)”.
Fans particularly connect with his song “Turbulence.” Morgan describes it as special:
“My favourite writes are the ones that fall out of the sky. Perhaps a bad use of the phrase for a track called Turbulence…”
The British Country Music Festival 2025
The Empress Ballroom at Blackpool’s Winter Gardens will welcome Jonny Morgan on Sunday at the British Country Music Festival 2025. This venue holds special significance in British entertainment history. When built in the late 19th century, it was one of the largest ballrooms in the world.
The festival features multiple stages throughout the Winter Gardens complex. However, the Empress Ballroom serves as the main stage and offers the perfect setting for Morgan’s ambient soundscapes on Sunday Afternoon. His performance promises to be a highlight of the festival.
This is a rare opportunity for fans of Americana and indie-folk music to see a rising star in a historic venue. Morgan’s emotive storytelling and the ballroom’s grand atmosphere will create a memorable experience.
Future of UK Americana
Jonny Morgan represents the exciting future of UK Americana music. His blend of transatlantic influences, ambient soundscapes, and heartfelt storytelling creates a unique musical experience. As he continues to build on his success and evolve as an artist, his performance at the British Country Music Festival 2025 on the main stage is sure to bring him a host of new fans.
Don’t miss seeing this rising star at the Empress Ballroom on Sunday. His performance will demonstrate why he’s earning such acclaim from industry professionals and fans.
Latest Releases: Jonny Morgan
Spotify Playlist for Jonny Morgan
Links & Socials: Jonny Morgan
For those eager to follow Jonny’s journey and stay updated on his latest releases and performances.
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