Britain’s ground breaking country-pop duo Ward Thomas are set to bring their unmistakable harmonies and heartfelt song writing to Beverley Folk Festival for an unforgettable evening celebrating their remarkable journey as pioneers of British country music.
When twin sisters Catherine and Lizzy Ward Thomas released their debut album From Where We Stand in 2014, few could have predicted the impact it would have. The record received glowing reviews for its raw emotion, lyrical honesty, and exquisite vocal blend — earning UK Album of the Year at the British Country Music Awards and soaring to Number One on the UK Country Chart. This breakthrough marked the arrival of two fresh, authentic voices determined to give country music a distinctly British identity.
Their 2016 follow-up, Cartwheels, was a landmark release that made music history by becoming the first ever UK country album to reach Number One on the Official Albums Chart. Featuring radio favourites such as Carry You Home, Guilty Flowers, and Cartwheels, the album went Gold in the UK and was embraced by BBC Radio 2 and mainstream audiences alike. In the years that followed, Ward Thomas became widely recognised as Britain’s first country stars, bringing Nashville craftsmanship and English storytelling together in a way that resonated on both sides of the Atlantic.
Their success was further acknowledged when they received the Country Music Association’s prestigious Jeff Walker Global Achievement Award, recognising their role in expanding the international reach of country music. Their performances — from sold-out tours to high-profile appearances at BBC Radio 2 Live in Hyde Park — have become renowned for their warmth, charisma, and spine-tingling vocal chemistry.
In recent years, the duo have continued to evolve, pushing beyond traditional country boundaries with albums like Restless Minds and Music in the Madness. These records explore themes of resilience, connection, and hope, blending the sisters’ signature harmonies with pop, rock, and electronic influences. Collaborations with James Blunt and Jack Savoretti have further showcased their versatility and adventurous spirit.
Whether performing stripped-back acoustic numbers or soaring anthems, Ward Thomas deliver songs that speak directly to the heart — songs about home, love, and the stories that shape us. With a catalogue of hits, powerful new material, and a reputation as one of Britain’s most captivating live acts, this is a concert not to miss — a celebration of the music that redefined British country and inspired a generation of songwriters to follow.
