If you went to the C2C festival last year you will have known that there was only one name on everybody’s lips and that was Drake Milligan. The Texas country artist became the hottest name of the weekend within seconds of walking on stage at the Indigo on the Friday afternoon, with attendees packing out All Bar One to see him and his band later that night and giving him a standing ovation for his high-energy Spotlight Stage performance on the Saturday. It’s safe to say he won over a legion of fans on this side of the pond during his visit and it was no surprise to see him promoted to the main stage for this year’s festival next month.
Inspired by legendary country artists such as George Strait, Merle Haggard, and Hank Williams, Milligan honed his craft and developed a deep appreciation for traditional country music. His soulful voice and genuine connection to the genre quickly caught the attention of music enthusiasts and industry professionals alike.
Milligan’s breakthrough moment came when he portrayed a young Elvis Presley in the critically acclaimed TV series ‘Sun Records.’ His portrayal of the iconic rock ‘n’ roll legend showcased not only his acting talent but also his remarkable vocal ability, earning him praise from audiences and critics alike. A third place finish in the 2022 season of ‘America’s Got Talent’ further propelled Milligan into the spotlight as did his excellent album ‘Dallas / Fort Worth’ and so here we are with new release ‘Jukebox Songs’ as he begins to move into the next phase of his career.
The Texan singer-songwriter delivers a refreshing blend of traditional country sounds with modern storytelling on this all-too-short new EP. It kicks off with ‘What I Couldn’t Forget,’ a catchy and upbeat track infused with rich Texan tones and fiddle-driven melodies. Milligan’s smooth vocals paint a vivid picture of love’s lingering impact, making it impossible to shake the memories of a past flame.
‘I Got a Problem’ channels the spirit of something like Garth Brooks’ ‘Friends in Low Places’ with a slow, piano-based open that soon gives way to infectious energy and a sing-along chorus. “When a guy like me gets hooked on something, it’s bad,” Milligan states before the guitars kick in and the song picks up pace. It builds momentum with rocking guitars and irresistible melodies, showcasing Milligan’s ability to hook listeners from the very first note. Meanwhile, ‘Don’t Leave Me Loving You’ tugs at the heartstrings with its plaintive lyrics and haunting instrumentation, capturing the bittersweet essence of saying goodbye on a real tear-jerker of a Country ballad with a strong chorus and an empty heart / empty beer bottles vibe. “Come leave me hurt, come leave me mad,” begs Milligan, just wanting to see the girl one more time.
The EP’s (for all intents and purposes) title track, ‘Jukebox Songs and Barstool Beers,’ transports listeners to a classic Texan honky-tonk, complete with neon lights and dancing boots. Milligan’s storytelling prowess shines through as he paints a vivid picture of a Friday night out filled with jukebox tunes, cold beers, and wooden floors. A cracking guitar solo straight out the 80s ushers in the song’s final third as it transports you deep into the heart of the Lonestar state and makes you want to reach for a beer, no matter what time of day it is that you are listening!
With its timeless sound and irresistible charm, ‘Jukebox Songs’ is sure to resonate with country music fans everywhere, cementing Drake Milligan’s place as a rising star in the genre. Alongside Randall King, Drake Milligan has the weight of potential on his shoulders and the feeling that he could take Texan Country music around the world. ‘Jukebox Songs’ only serves to add fuel to that belief that this is his time and he has the skills, the chops and the charm to pull it off. More please!
Tracklist: 1. What I Couldn’t Forget 2. I Got a Problem 3. Don’t Leaving Me Loving You 4. Jukebox Songs and Barstool Beers Release Date: 16th February Record Label: BMG ‘ Stoney Creek Buy ‘Jukebox Songs’ right here
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