New national radio station Country Hits Radio launched in the UK this morning, serving a growing community of British country music lovers.
The station set the tone by launching with first track 'Raised on Country' by Chris Young - the recently released new single from the Tennessee singer. Other songs played in the first show included 'My Church' by Maren Morris and 'Heartache on the Dancefloor' by Jon Pardi.
Esteemed broadcaster Baylen Leonard kicked off proceedings, saying: "Hello there! I'm Baylen Leonard and this is Country Hits Radio. Welcome along here, where we celebrate country for all.
Country is many things – a lifestyle, a vibe, country is cold beers on a Friday night and a pair of jeans that fit just right. Country music is something that you can sing, dance, laugh and yes, sometimes even cry along with.
Later on the station today, Drivetime host Ty Bentli will be bringing his show from one of the biggest annual country music events in Las Vegas - The Academy of Country Music Awards, also known as the ACM Awards.
Country Hits Radio is set to appeal to modern country music-lovers aged 25-44, and features a playlist of artists includingKeith Urban, Kacey Musgraves, Thomas Rhett, Maren Morris, Florida Georgia Line, Dan + Shay and Carrie Underwood.
Country Hits Radio is the UK's first national pop country music station. With a playlist catered to modern country music-lovers aged 25-44, the station plays artists including Keith Urban, Thomas Rhett, Carrie Underwood, The Shires, Lady Antebellum and Florida Georgia Line. Featuring presenters such as Baylen Leonard, Ty Bentli, and Una Healy, Country Hits Radio celebrates the vibrant and fast-growing genre, recognising the huge influence the music style has over pop music.