As a member of the UK Country scene for over 20 years, playing in various bands, duos and trios and fronting award-winning country cover band, Badlands, Russel Kitchin’s love of Country Music began from a young age; with some of his fondest and earliest memories sitting under the kitchen table, listening to his mum’s country compilation tapes. After years of curating and honing his love for country, western, rock and blues, Russel finally made his solo debut with his first album, ‘Wherever You Are’in May 2023. Russel went on to receive multiple nominations from independent radio stations, and the album was voted “Album of the Year 2024” byUKCountryradio.com 

Russel draws his influence from phenomenal country artists like Vince Gill, Marty Stuart, Brad Paisley, Luke Combs and Allan Jackson, as well as blues icons Joe Bonamassa, Eric Clapton, amongst many others. Another inspiration is long-time friend and producer Martin Smith (producer of Holly Rose Webber’s number 1 UK track, ‘Let It Out’).

Russel’s appreciation for both the UK and U.S. Country scene is reflected deeply in his music, lyrics, and message. Russel cites his music as having various Country and Americana ‘flavours’ and loves using a multitude of instruments to layer and enrich his sound, with inspiration always coming from his own real-life experiences and memories.

With a second album launch planned for March 2026, Russel is now releasing new music with his new single “Scars” released on October 13, 2025. Further releases are due in January and March, the latter coinciding with the C2C Festival weekend, and a planned album launch party at the end of March. Asked about the development and direction of his new album, Russel said “I love to blend traditional Country vibes and values with a modern sound and style, but always country at the heart of it. My mantra is, simple – if it sounds good, it is good”.

Whether as an acoustic act or as a band, Russel’s music is very much a family matter, and he is never without Heather Kitchin, his eldest daughter, on lead guitar and vocals. “She is an incredible player and singer and a massive part of my music”, he said.

With gigs already booked in 2026 and beyond, Russel is working to bring his original music to the fore, either with the intimacy of acoustic shows or as a live band! - and reach new audiences at home and abroad, with the US in his sights once again in 2026. Russel is excited for everyone to listen to the message that Country music brings:

“I hope everyone enjoys it. People love good music, and Country Music is definitely good music! I want everyone to enjoy what Country Music has to offer!”

Russel’s music is available now on all streaming platforms – or you can buy the CD here. Watch out for more new music and videos throughout 2026!