Inside Country West Fest: A Conversation with Guy Surtees

Country West Fest, Westlands' first country music festival is fast approaching. With a line up of stellar UK original country artists, this is more than a festival, it’s an authentic celebration of modern and classic country music.

If you’re looking to get to know our incredible line-up a little better, we asked Guy Surtees some quick-fire questions to help you discover more about him as an artist.

Guy is is all about sharing his soul-bearing story songs with the world, making his family and friends proud, and having a lot of fun along the way. He's a musical storyteller whose journey spans over three decades with his musical prowess extending across multiple instruments, including guitar, bass, banjo, keyboards, and drums.

Who are your biggest musical influences?

In Country music, my biggest influence has been Dwight Yoakam. I discovered him many years ago listening to the radio and when I first heard his song Guitars and Cadillacs, I was just blown away with his energy and raw Country sound. More recently I've been influenced by early Lady A and Brothers Osborne, both quite different in musical style, but both have great songs and a solid production which I like.

When did your music career begin?

I started performing when I was 14 years old, and I've had various stages to my musical career. I've played in bands, and I've made a living as a solo performer. My Country music journey began in 2023 with the release of my first single 'English Country Boy'. That year I played festivals and support slots and I met some really helpful people.

What can people expect from your set at Country West Fest?

My set at Country West Fest on Saturday 28th March will be mostly songs from my award winning album 'Long Time Coming', some new songs that will be released this year, and a couple of my favourite Country cover songs, all played acoustically, so I'll be bringing the energy and hoping for some audience participation.

What’s your favourite country song of all time?

My favourite Country song of all time is Achy Breaky Heart...! Nah, just kidding! Haha! A great Country song has to have a good story, and I think The Gambler by Kenny Rogers, even though he never wrote the song, he tells it in a way that makes you believe it was him on that train, and that's what makes it a great record.

Or any other information/facts you would like to share

Country West Fest is gonna be my second time performing in Yeovil. Last time, you guys really brought the party, and I'm looking forward to some more of that good old Somerset hospitality again! See you there!

You can catch Guy on the Acoustic Stage at 8.30pm on Saturday 28 March. 

Get your tickets here: Country West Fest