Country Ties are a Brighton-born country outfit with deep roots in the UK and European festival scene. Formed in 2024 by soulful singer-songwriter Charlotte Howard and dynamic lead guitarist Mikey Bickers, the band brings together seasoned talent and fresh songwriting.
Charlotte and Mikey, long-time collaborators and mainstays of festival favourites Duncan Disorderly and the Scallywags, formed Country Ties as a return to their shared passion for classic country, bluegrass and western swing. They were soon joined by Neil Williams, a rockabilly double bassist known for his raw rhythm and stage presence, with Silvia Bacci bringing country-folk fiddle to the line-up. For selected shows, the band expands further with James Anthony on drums and original member Mr Eugene on fiddle and mandolin.
Together, they blend Charlotte’s lyrical tales of heartbreak, hope and misadventure with a rich, rootsy sound that feels both timeless and unmistakably their own. Whether it’s a foot-stomping honky-tonk number or a smoky ballad at dusk, Country Ties deliver a live show that is as heartfelt as it is infectious.
Their growing following has seen them grace stages across the South Coast of England and make festival appearances at Camp Bestival, Small World and The Magic Teapot Gathering, with more on the horizon. In summer 2026, Country Ties released their debut album, Live at The Water Rats, capturing the energy and character of the band in its natural habitat: on stage in front of an audience.