New Kent, VA – The sounds of Nashville echoed through the vineyards of New Kent Winery on August 23rd, as the second annual Cannon Country Fest delivered a memorable evening of country music, community engagement, and local pride. Hosted by Cannon Country 107.9 FM, the popular radio station owned by Local Daily Media, the festival transformed the winery into a hub for country music enthusiasts, drawing a crowd eager for live performances, local flavors, and a celebration of the region’s heritage.
This year’s event, themed “A Nashville to New Kent Experience,” showcased a curated lineup of artists with deep roots in the country music scene. Headlining the festival was Justin Andrews, an Oklahoma-born artist celebrated for his “whiskey-soaked” blend of roots and truth in his music. Andrews, who moved to Nashville in 2016, has spent years honing his craft and recently released his new single, “Gone Again.” His performance, backed by a full band including fiddle and pedal steel players, was described as a high-energy, rousing showcase of his signature Oklahoma roots infused with a Nashville country twist.
Sharing the stage was Tim James, a Grammy-nominated songwriter whose impressive catalog includes hits like “Love Like Crazy” (recorded by Lee Brice), “My List” (Toby Keith), and “All I Ask For Anymore” (Bucky Covington). James has penned numerous chart-toppers for country music legends such as George Strait, Rodney Atkins, and Chris Stapleton, offering the audience a chance to hear some of the most beloved songs in country music performed live by one of their original creators.
Rounding out the musical talent was the powerhouse country duo Carvin Walls. Consisting of husband-and-wife team Kelly and Troy Walls, the Nashville-based duo has garnered attention for their unique “Country Soul” sound, blending pop-rock and soul influences with traditional country elements. Their album “Between Us” achieved success on the iTunes Country Album charts, and their singles have seen considerable radio play. They provided a “writers-round” style performance, offering a glimpse into the collaborative process behind many popular country tunes.
The festival’s connection to the community extended beyond its musical offerings. A significant highlight of the evening was the recognition of a local military family, honored as the “Military Family of the Year.” This gesture underscored the event’s commitment to celebrating those who serve, adding a poignant and patriotic dimension to the festivities. While specific details about the honored family were not released, the tradition of recognizing military families at such events speaks to the strong ties between country music and support for the armed forces.
New Kent Winery, a family-owned establishment known for its picturesque setting and commitment to hosting diverse events, provided the perfect backdrop for the festival. With ample outdoor seating, food trucks offering local fare, and a selection of the winery’s own wines and beers, attendees were treated to a complete sensory experience. The winery’s policies, which include welcoming dogs on leashes in outdoor areas but prohibiting outside food and beverages, contributed to a well-managed and enjoyable atmosphere for all guests.
Gideon Dean, Communications Director for Cannon Country 107.9 FM, expressed enthusiasm for the event’s return, stating, “We’re looking forward to bringing three stellar artists from ‘Nashville to New Kent,’ which is our theme again for this year.” He highlighted the well-rounded country music experience that the festival aims to provide, from the intimate writers’ rounds to the full-band sets featuring hit songs. The success of the festival is a testament to the growing presence of country music in the Historic Triangle area and the dedication of Cannon Country 107.9 FM to bringing quality entertainment to its listeners.
As a radio station specializing in country music from the ’90s through today, Cannon Country 107.9 FM has quickly established itself as a key player in the local media landscape since its launch in spring 2024. Owned by Local Daily Media, which also operates 92.3 FM The Tide and WYDaily.com, the station’s mission is to deliver country music, positivity, and good vibes to the community. The Cannon Country Fest serves as a cornerstone event, embodying this mission by fostering a sense of togetherness and appreciation for the genre.
The festival structure included various entry times, with VIP parking and gates opening earlier, followed by General Admission. While VIP tickets were sold out, general admission tickets remained available, allowing a broad audience to partake in the festivities. The event ran from 6:30 PM to 9:30 PM, offering a substantial evening of entertainment. The commitment to providing free water stations ensured attendee comfort throughout the night.
The positive reception of the Cannon Country Fest reinforces its status as an anticipated annual event, celebrating the rich tradition of country music while actively engaging with and honoring the local community. The festival not only highlights talented artists but also strengthens the cultural fabric of New Kent and the wider Historic Triangle region, promising continued success in the years to come.
