Homegrown Talent Contest – The Finalists

Raised in the rolling countryside of Devon, a voice and vision that’s unmistakably country. With authenticity, musicianship, and a stage presence that captivates, Josh Beer is redefining what British country music can be; his fans aren’t just growing, they’re showing up, singing loud, and bringing UK country into a new era.

Town Called Us are a UK Country Pop duo built on heart, harmony and honest storytelling. Made up of Lauren and James, real-life partners of fifteen years, their natural chemistry sits at the centre of everything they create, from the songs they write to the way their voices come together. 

Trading lead vocals and harmonies, the pair combine Lauren’s heartfelt delivery with James’ soulful edge to create a warm, dynamic sound rooted in real experiences, relationships and the moments in life that stay with you. 

Drawing inspiration from the storytelling traditions of Nashville alongside the honesty and character of British songwriting, Town Called Us bring a distinctly UK voice to modern Country Pop, proving you don’t need a Southern accent to tell a great country story. 

Their first two releases earned BBC Introducing Track of the Week, marking an exciting start for the duo as they begin to make their name within the UK Country scene. 

Authentic, down to earth and ambitious, Town Called Us are proudly flying the flag for the next generation of UK Country music. 

Will Edgar is a talented 18-year-old singer-songwriter from Bolton, UK.

He’s been making waves in the music scene with his acoustic folk and Americana-inspired sound, drawing comparisons to legendary artists like Bob Dylan (Pete Waterman, 2024) and gaining recognition from renowned songwriting figures such as Kamille (Little Mix co-writer).

Having had the opportunity to debut on national television in 2023 for The Voice Kids, Will reached the final for Team Danny Jones from McFly. He has performed for royal guests, including King Charles III and Queen Camilla, as well as on some of the UK’s biggest stages, including Manchester AO Arena supporting Calum Scott, Reading & Leeds, Camp and Furnace, and The Invisible Wind Factory.

Now, Will is carving his own path into the UK folk and Americana scene, gaining recognition from audiences for his storytelling, emotion and powerful performances.

Influenced heavily by folk artists such as Tyler Childers, Jason Isbell and Bob Dylan, Will brings elements of Western country and blues into his sound, often drawing comparisons to the likes of Zach Bryan and Sam Barber.

Having just finished an album, which is set to be released this year, Will is currently working in Nashville for a period this year. He is due back in the UK in mid-August for a series of shows later in the year.

A self-produced EP is also in the works, set for release in the ea