Few artists embody the rise of UK country music quite like Kezia Gill. With her powerhouse voice, unshakable authenticity, and roots that run deep into the musical soil of Britain and Ireland, she’s become one of the most distinctive and respected figures on the scene. And now, with the announcement of her record deal with Snakefarm Records — part of Universal Music Group — she’s stepped into an entirely new chapter, marking a historic moment not just for her, but for UK country as a whole.
From Nottingham to Nashville (and Back Again)
Kezia Gill was born and raised in Nottingham, the daughter of a working musician who spent more than fifty years gigging across the UK and beyond. Music wasn’t just encouraged — it was inevitable. “My dad was my biggest influence,” she’s often said, recalling nights spent watching him perform and learning how to captivate an audience before she could even reach the mic stand.
That early immersion shaped her into a performer whose artistry transcends genre boundaries. Her sound blends country, blues, rock, and Irish folk, creating something uniquely her own — rich in storytelling, soul, and swagger. It’s a sound that resonates with audiences from small folk clubs to major festival stages, earning her comparisons to icons like Brandi Carlile and Gretchen Peters, yet always unmistakably “Kezia.”
Cutting Her Teeth on the Road
Before the streaming numbers, before the festival main stages, there were the pubs, the long drives, and the relentless touring schedule that built her reputation. Kezia’s years performing across the UK — sometimes night after night, guitar in hand, audience by audience — gave her the kind of stage presence that can’t be faked.
Those formative experiences also grounded her songwriting. Whether it’s the heartbreak in I’m Here or the fiery independence of Whiskey Drinkin’ Woman — the single that landed her on BBC Radio 2’s playlist for four consecutive weeks — her songs carry the lived-in honesty that defines great country music.
“It’s all about telling real stories,” she’s said. “If people see themselves in the song — if it helps them through something — that’s the magic.”
Blending Borders, Breaking Barriers
In a genre sometimes defined by its American roots, Kezia’s sound proves that “country” is more about heart and truth than geography. Her Irish heritage, folk storytelling instincts, and rock sensibility all converge into a modern British country voice that feels both familiar and fresh.
It’s a blend that’s earned her a loyal following and recognition from peers on both sides of the Atlantic. Kezia’s performances at C2C: Country to Country Festival, The Long Road, and numerous headline tours have solidified her place as one of the UK’s leading country artists — not just holding her own, but setting the pace for a new generation.
A Defining Milestone: The Snakefarm Deal
In June 2025, Kezia announced she had signed with Snakefarm Records, a Nashville-affiliated label under Universal Music Group — a powerhouse in roots and country music. The signing coincided with the announcement of her new album, All On Red, and an extensive UK headline tour planned for 2026.
The deal marks a landmark achievement. Few UK country artists have managed to attract the backing of a major Nashville-linked label, and Kezia’s signing represents a breakthrough moment for British talent in a space traditionally dominated by American acts.
“This isn’t just a deal for Kezia Gill — it’s a statement that British country music has arrived.”
Country Lowdown
With Snakefarm’s resources behind her, Kezia’s reach is set to expand internationally, introducing her fearless songwriting and genre-blending sound to a global audience.
An Artist in Full Bloom
Beyond the record deal and accolades, what continues to set Kezia apart is her emotional transparency. Her songs balance strength and vulnerability, from anthemic barnstormers to quiet reflections on loss and resilience. Each performance — whether with her full band or solo behind a piano — feels like an invitation into her world.
Her forthcoming album, All On Red, promises to capture that raw energy. “It’s about taking chances,” she told CountryMusic.co.uk in our latest interview. “Putting everything on the table, trusting your instincts, and betting on yourself. That’s where I am right now.”
It’s a fitting metaphor for an artist who’s built her career on faith — in the music, in her fans, and in the slow but steady rise of UK country.
Kezia Gill Is an Icon of UK Country
- A trailblazer: One of the few UK country artists to land a major label deal.
- A storyteller: Her lyrics carry grit, grace, and lived experience.
- A genre-bender: Country, folk, blues, and rock all converge in her sound.
- A performer: Her live shows are fiery, emotional, and unforgettable.
- A pioneer: Her success signals a broader recognition of British country talent.
The Road Ahead
With All On Red out now and a national tour in early 2026, Kezia Gill stands poised at a defining moment. Her story is one of hard work, resilience, and unshakable belief — qualities that have taken her from Nottingham pubs to the threshold of international recognition.
And yet, for all the milestones, she remains grounded, grateful, and fiercely connected to her fans. “The UK country scene is growing because people believe in it,” she says. “We’re building something special here — and I’m proud to be part of it.”
Read the Full Interview
For an in-depth conversation about her journey, inspirations, and what’s next, read our exclusive interview:
Kezia Gill: The Rising Star of UK Country Music
Kezia Gill isn’t just an artist riding a wave — she’s one of the reasons it’s rising. With a major deal under her belt and her best work ahead, she’s not just an icon of UK country music — she’s shaping its future.
