BBC Celebrates Country Music with a Year of Special Programming Across TV, Radio and Digital

Image: BBC Press - Credit: Nick Maxted

By Jon Donnis

The BBC is going all out for country music in 2025, bringing fans a packed year of programmes, live broadcasts and special features across TV, radio and digital platforms. With the genre's popularity booming in the UK, it's the perfect time to dive into its rich history, evolving culture and the modern stars reshaping the sound.

One of the year's biggest highlights is Rob Brydon's Honky Tonk Road Trip, a new BBC Two series where Brydon travels through America's southern states to uncover country music's roots and meet the artists carrying the genre forward. From Nashville's Grand Ole Opry to the Appalachian Mountains and Elvis's hometown of Tupelo, it's a vibrant and personal journey through the heart of country music. Brydon, who famously topped the charts with Islands in the Stream alongside Ruth Jones, brings charm and humour to this exploration of the people and places that shaped country music into a global phenomenon.

Another major TV event is Rebel Country, a feature-length documentary on the new wave of country artists breaking boundaries and challenging the status quo. The film delves into how stars like Jelly Roll, Breland and Lainey Wilson are tackling issues of race, class and gender, while still honouring the rebellious spirit of icons like Johnny Cash.

On the radio, Radio 2 is once again the official broadcast partner for the Country to Country festival in London, Belfast and Glasgow. Veteran presenter Bob Harris will host live shows packed with performances from country's biggest names and rising stars. There will also be live broadcasts from Belfast and Glasgow, plus special showcases at iconic venues like King Tut's and The Limelight, bringing listeners exclusive acoustic sets and interviews.

Throughout the year, BBC iPlayer will host special programmes like Country Music Summer Festival, capturing highlights from Nashville's CMA Fest, while the CMA Awards will stream live in November. The festive season wraps up with Country Music Christmas, featuring performances of classic holiday songs with a Nashville twist.

The BBC's dedication to country music has been instrumental in its growing UK fanbase, and this year's programming promises to bring audiences even closer to the heart and soul of the genre. Whether you're a lifelong fan or just discovering country music, 2025 is set to be an unforgettable year filled with twang, tales and toe-tapping tunes.