Katy Hurt: A Bright Light in UK Country

I had the absolute pleasure of seeing Katy Hurt last week, June 5, 2025, at The Hot Box Live, in Chelmsford for the third gig of her UK tour. The Hot Box Live is a small intimate venue for approximately 100 vendors. It is built under a viaduct and the added atmosphere of trains going overhead made it feel cool and unique..

The support act was Two Ways Home, who were entertaining enough whilst waiting for the main act of the evening, however too much time was spent tuning guitars in between each song which was a little frustrating in my opinion.

But then Katy came on and wow! She isn’t just another singer; she is amazing. From the moment she stepped onto the stage, her infectious enthusiasm lit up the room, drawing you into her world of heartfelt lyrics and captivating melodies. It is rare to find an artist who radiates such genuine joy in their craft, and Katy possesses this quality in spades.

Beyond her undeniable passion for country music, Katy is simply bursting with talent. She even entered into the realms of singing the blues with one of her songs. Her vocals are clear and powerful, capable of conveying both vulnerability and strength with remarkable ease. Her songwriting demonstrated a maturity beyond her years and her lyrics were insightful and relatable. She clearly enjoyed playing the guitar along with her band members and she managed to strike that perfect balance between authentic country storytelling with a fresh, modern sound that everyone can enjoy.

Katy was great at connecting with the audience. She didn’t just play songs; she engaged with the room, sharing anecdotes and inviting singalongs, which the delighted crowd eagerly embraced. Beyond the undeniable crowd-pleasing presence, Katy showcased her considerable talent. She played a mix of new and old songs but they were mostly from her new album, ‘Give Me a Break’. Her songwriting, too, shone brightly, with lyrics that were both insightful and incredibly relatable, that struck a chord with many.

It was clear from the beaming smiles and enthusiastic applause that Katy Hurt had once again delivered a truly memorable experience. She’s not just a talented musician; she’s a magnetic performer who knows how to cultivate a fantastic atmosphere. Her dedication to her craft and her evolving artistry make her an artist well worth watching.

Katy was thrilled to connect with her audience after the show, happily taking selfies, posing for photos, and enthusiastically selling her merchandise.  She was happy to engage in an impromptu interview after the show with Nashville Worldwide, which was insightful and as enthusiastic as Katy always is.

For anyone wanting to see an empowered and energetic artist and seeking a compelling voice within the genre, Katy offers a fun and engaging listening experience.

Review by Kate (The Whiskey Rustler) Hardy