We are delighted to introduce the Artistic Director for the UK’s newest country music celebration: Country On The Eye.

Ben R. Atkinson is a broadcaster, academic, and musician with deep roots in the genre. For eighteen years, he has hosted Ben’s Country Music Show, the UK’s longest-running independent country radio programme, broadcasting to audiences across the UK and around the world.

Ben’s journey began in 2008 at Melton Mowbray’s own 103 The Eye, where he remains a cornerstone of the presenting team. A local talent, Ben attended King Edward VII School before earning his BA and MA in Media at the University of Lincoln. Following professional training with the BBC at MediaCity Salford, he returned to Lincoln to establish a successful design business, primarily supporting the charity and third sectors.

From Nashville to the East Midlands

Since his first pilgrimage to Nashville in 2011, Ben has built a formidable reputation in “Music City.” He has performed at the world-famous Bluebird Café and regularly presents his research at Belmont University’s International Country Music Conference.

His academic contributions include forthcoming publications on the history of British country music culture through Bloomsbury and with the European Journal of American Studies. Ben is also a recording artist; following the 2025 release of his album Country Folk, he is currently back in the studio working on a new project slated for late 2026.

“When invited to lead the first Country On The Eye, I knew we had to curate a lineup of original artists that bridged the gap between US and UK talent,” Ben explains. “Our goal is to bring the absolute best in country, folk, and roots music to the heart of the East Midlands.”

Curating a Unique Lineup

Ben’s personal connections in Nashville have allowed him to secure a fantastic lineup for the inaugural festival, including Karli & James and Victoria Banks, both of whom will be making their UK festival debuts.

Highlights of the festival include:

• Gary Quinn: Making his highly anticipated headline debut this summer.
• Bob Cheevers: The Emmy-winning songwriter from Austin, Texas, has come out of retirement at Ben’s personal request to fill the coveted “Legend Slot.”
• The John Montague Legend Award: Bob Cheevers will be the first recipient of this award, named in honour of the late Leicestershire folk troubadour and long-time friend of many on the East Midlands circuit.
• Song Suffragettes London: Nashville’s famous Song Suffragettes all-female acoustic showcase, bring their London satellite show to the East Midlands for a very special collaboration with CountryWomenUK.

Experience the Festival

Ben recently sat down with BBC Radio Leicester’s Ben Jackson to discuss the curation process and what fans can look forward to this year.

Attendees can catch Ben performing live on the Main Stage on Saturday morning, and he will be serving as your host throughout the entire festival weekend.

Stay Connected:

• Learn more about Ben: benratkinson.com
• Listen to the show: benscountrymusicshow.com