INTERVIEW WITH GINA LARNER AHEAD OF HER C2C PERFORMANCE
A few weeks ago, C2C announced their pop up artist for the festival and Gina Larner is set to play in London and recently I had the opportunity to chat with Gina about what we can expect from her set next week during her London performances.
Hi Gina, how are you today?
I'm great but exhausted as I became a first time aunt!
I have to start by saying the biggest of congratulations to you on being selected to play at C2C this year. How are you feeling about performing at the festival?
Thank you so much, I am SO excited! I've been to C2C before as an attendant and I've always absolutely loved country music which might be obvious by my own writing! and I think the festival as a whole is such an incredible event I'm honoured to be a part of it this year!
Can you please introduce yourself as to some people attending you will be a new artist to them.
Of course. I’m Gina Larner and I'm a singer-songwriter from Brighton! I released my debut album 'Something Good' in 2023 which went on to be nominated for 'Album of the Year' at the BCMA 2024. Last year, I went on to release 4 more singles, tour with James Blunt, play The Long Road Festival and the main stage of The British Country Music Festival with my gorgeous all female band.
How would you describe your musical style in 3 words?
Sarcastic, Relatable, Exciting (Or Country, Rock, Pop).
What's one thing you are the most excited about for during C2C?
To play The Big Entrance for sure. When I went last year, I was drawn to that stage in particular and loved that it was the first part of the festival you were introduced to as you got off the tube. It's such a great way to connect to your audience, and the party atmosphere is undeniable. I also am releasing my next single, 'In Love' (a sarcastic take on Disney ruining love expectations) on Friday 14th March so C2C audiences will be hearing it live the day of release, and that’s just so exciting to me.
What can fans expect from your set? Please tell me cocktail menu will be featured in your set?
They can expect FUN! I always want my sets to be more than just the music, and always try to put on a show in all areas! I’ll be joined by my gorgeous girls in a full band, and of course, there might be a joke or two. I can't tell you the setlist JUST yet (as there might be a surprise) but Cocktails might definitely be on the menu.
I have to ask you about how C2C brings country music fans all under one roof how wonderful is that for you as an artist?
It's incredible. I think it's particularly special with this genre in the UK, as up until recently, it's felt incredibly difficult as a UK Country artist to know where or who your fans are, let alone being able to reach them. Social media is great, but is worldwide. C2C is one of the most useful and rewarding events that a country artist can be a part of, and you know that everyone in that audience shares that same love of the music!
Do you enjoy getting the chance to meet so many of your fans after your sets?
I LOVE meeting fans after a set. I make sure to sell my own merch after any show no matter the size, as I think its so important to engage with your fans on a personal level, and is how you build a solid following of people who genuinely appreciate what you do. I love meeting the different types of people who are into this genre as well, as it varies so much. It's a great feeling when you come off stage after having the time of your life, and someone else comes and tells you they did too. You can't beat it.
Are there any artists you are hoping to catch over your time at the festival?
YES! If I could, I would see all of them! But I'm especially excited to catch my good friends First Time Flyers rock The Countryline Stage as well as my girls Jade Helliwell and Kezia Gill! Of course, Lainey Wilson is also at the top of the list.
You recently supported Ward Thomas on some of their tour dates, how was that for you?
It was brilliant. I supported them for 5 dates and every one had SOLD OUT! It really was a testament to the girls that they could not only bring in such a huge crowd, but such a respectful and warm crowd of people. I enjoyed every minute and am grateful for the opportunity! Of course, I had to give them a Kiss Cowboy and Drink Cocktails top!
I have to admit, I am super excited about hearing you for the very first time over the weekend.
Thank you so much. As a new artist, especially in such a niche genre, I always appreciate when anyone has heard of me/heard something they liked, and decide to come and check us out. I promise, it'll be worth the wait.
Before I let you go, I have to ask is there anything you can tease about your plans for 2025?
Teasing 2025 plans? Without getting in (too much) trouble, I think I can safely say I've got a few new songs in the pipeline that might be with you sooner than you think. I'm working with new and different people which is incredibly exciting for me as an artist, and means there might be a few new directions taken! There's also a few shows that have yet to be announced, but when they are, you'll definitely know about it!
Thank you very much for your time, it really is appreciated.
You can follow Gina on her Social Media
Love this girl! Saw her in London and the Cocoa Cola arena in Dubai with James Blunt. She rocked it! More please
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