CHELEY TACKETT (usa)
tues 22/09/2026 II carmen bar, gtr manchester
It only takes hearing Cheley Tackett once to understand why she is one of Nashville's most celebrated independent artists. Cheley's blend of lyrical intensity and melodic craftsmanship have earned her recognition and respect in a town where being a stand-out is a rare achievement.
American Country Magazine suggests Cheley's song "Play the One I Like" "...might be the best song that I've heard this year so far" while Roughstock.com describes her as "...a remarkable vocalist....Imagine Allison Moorer's blissfully soulful voice and you've got yourself a good comparison for Cheley." Maverick, the UK's leading independent country music magazine has this to say about Cheley: "One of the most powerful, soulful singers in the business, she writes with the deep confidence and total abandon that only a true artist is capable of. She draws her listeners in with comfortable ease and offers each and every one an original and deep personal experience."
Acclaimed as much for her songwriting as for her artistry, Cheley has won Merlefest's Chris Austin Songwriting contest, the prestigious Kerrville Folk Festival's New Folk competition, Just Plain Folks' Song of the Year, Country Album of the Year, & Country Song of the Year, as well as being a finalist in the Independent Acoustic Music Awards' Country Song & Female Vocal Peformance categories, and a semi-finalist in the International Songwriting Competition's Rock & Pop categories.
Also a much sought-after demo singer on Music Row and beyond, Cheley's sultry voice and velvety moments are uniquely her own. It isn't fair to say that Cheley Tackett's appeal is limited to simply one genre - - she is gifted with cross-over potential that has hugely widened her audience. She has shared the stage with Americana powerhouses like Mindy Smith and Mary Gauthier as well as country stars Ashley McBryde, Kathy Mattea, Chris Young, James Otto, and Anthony Smith and she has opened for acts ranging from country artist Doug Stone to 70s folk-rockers America.
Reese Wilson, Cheley's friend and #1 charting hit writer sums it up: "The first time I heard Cheley was around ten years ago at a writer's club in Nashville. I was instantly drawn to her voice. I've heard literally thousands of singers during my career as a songwriter/producer and I've heard a lot of very good singers. Every now and then however, you hear someone who REALLY makes you want to listen to what they're saying and Cheley does that. I'm definitely a fan and once you hear her, you will be too."
Nashville nights writer round (usa)
Tues 20th oct ii carmen, gtr manchester
Featuring Blue Foley (USA), Payton Taylor (USA) and Stiko (SWE)
Brooks herring (usa)
Tues 17/11/2026 II carmen bar, gtr manchester
Brooks Herring is an award-winning songwriter, Nashville recording artist, U.S. Navy veteran, and 2026 South Carolina Military Veterans Hall of Fame inductee whose music blends country, Southern rock, and blues with the authenticity of lived experience.
Originally from Conway, South Carolina, Brooks completed multiple combat deployments in support of operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Africa before pursuing a career in music. Drawing from his Southern roots, military service, and personal experiences, his songs explore themes of resilience, faith, loss, healing, and hope through honest storytelling and powerful performances.
Now based in Nashville, Tennessee, Brooks has earned more than 1.6 million streams across digital platforms and continues to build an international audience through his independent releases and live shows. Known for connecting deeply with listeners, his music reflects both the challenges and triumphs that shape the human experience.
Beyond music, Brooks holds a Doctorate in Physical Therapy from the University of South Carolina and a Bachelor’s degree in Songwriting from Belmont University. He remains passionate about supporting veterans, mentoring emerging songwriters, and using music as a platform for connection and purpose.
