An Angus-born musician has struck a chord with some of the biggest names in country music.
Multi-talented musician Laura McGhee is getting set to walk the line with the Johnny Cash’s son, John Carter Cash, at a special show celebrating country legend Willie Nelson’s 80th birthday.
Laura moved to Nashville, Tennessee, to follow her dream of making it in the music world and has toured all over the United States with her unique brand of country and folk in recent years.
The singer, guitarist and fiddle player is writing with John Carter Cash, who also runs the Cash Cabin recording studio and is eagerly anticipating Tuesday’s gig in honour of Mr Nelson.
Laura said: “I’m so excited and it’s really cool to be asked to be involved in something like this.
“Willie Nelson was quite a big influence on me growing up. I knew a lot of his music so I’m learning one of his songs for the show.
“I actually saw him live, in Glasgow believe it or not, so it’ll be nice to do one of his songs.”
Laura recently embarked on an ambitious album project which would have infused her Scottish roots and Americana influences on the one CD.
However, the project, due to be recorded at the Cash Cabin, never came to fruition, though Laura has continued to work with John Carter Cash, who has been taken by her style, and is preparing new material.
“I really want to thank everyone that pledged to the project and helped support it,” she added.
“It didn’t quite make it but I’m really grateful for all the support. I met John about three years ago and we played together off and on and we always said we would write together.
“However, with people’s schedules out here it’s always hard to arrange that and tie it up. After the album didn’t work out he said there’s still a way we can work together and I’m glad we have been able to.”
Laura will be covering Willie Nelson’s He’s not for You at the intimate show on Tuesday and will play fiddle alongside John Carter Cash and friends.
Willie Nelson’s iconic long hair, bandana, voice and playing style have carved him out as one of the most instantly recognisable and revered musicians in America, even for fans outside his country style.
His most famous hits include “On The Road Again” and “To All The Girls I’ve Loved Before” but he has also gained notoriety for his support of the campaign to legalise marijuana in America.
For more information on Laura McGhee, visit www.facebook.com/laura.mcghee2.