Luke Combs Discusses the Rise of Country Music in the UK and His Upcoming Opry Performance in London

US country music star Luke Combs, known for hits like ‘When It Rains It Pours,’ has shared his thoughts with BBC News about the growing popularity of country music in the UK. The genre is now the fastest-growing in the country, with UK listeners streaming three billion songs in the last year alone. Combs attributes this surge to country music’s universal appeal and the effort artists like him have put into connecting with UK fans. He describes UK country music fans as ‘listening crowds,’ with a different energy from American audiences. They engage deeply with the lyrics and are already familiar with entire albums, unlike US fans who are more accustomed to hearing singles promoted on the radio. Combs is currently in London, where the Grand Ole Opry is holding its first-ever performance outside the US, at the iconic Royal Albert Hall. This marks a milestone for the Opry, which has hosted legends like Johnny Cash and Dolly Parton. The event, sold out in minutes, also features other big names like Darius Rucker, Marty Stuart, and Mumford and Sons. Combs reflects on the importance of playing at the Royal Albert Hall and calls it a ‘bucket list’ moment. The event marks a significant step for country music in the UK and could pave the way for future Opry performances abroad.