The United States might be the home of country music, but our own James Johnston and South Africa’s Appel prove the Americans don’t have the market cornered. These talents have teamed up for a fantastic new country single appropriately titled “Country is For Me.” It’s funny; I often say that country really isn’t for me, but then I hear a tune like this and start reconsidering my protests!
“I’ve always dreamed of sharing my music with the world and celebrating the country way of life through the lens of different cultures,” James said. “’County is For Me’ is the embodiment of that dream. Collaborating with Appel has been an incredible experience. His passion and genuine connection to his fans, family, and country have been so inspiring. At the beginning of this journey, I was searching for a kindred spirit in music, but I never could have imagined I would find a lifelong friend. The joy of creating ’County is For Me’ shines through in the recording. I’m excited to share it with the world and show that, despite being born in different places, we’re not so different.”
“Meeting James and collaborating to unite cultures through the universal language of music has been a journey neither of us realised the world needed,” Appel added. “By weaving together our stories, voices, and distinct roots, we’ve proven that when barriers come down, the music only grows stronger. It has been a truly mutual and inspiring experience, highlighting the limitless potential of music.”
James recently played the Cape Town Country Music Festival in South Africa, but he’s back home and ready to play for local crowds this summer. Catch him at all the hottest country music festivals in the coming months.
28 December 2024 – Kix Country Rockin Rocky @ Great Western Hotel, Darumbal Country/Rockhampton City
24 January 2025 – The Music That Made Me @ Tamworth Town Hall, Kamileroi Country/Tamworth
5 April 2025 – Melbourne Muster @ Caribbean Park, Wurundjeri Woi-wurrung and Bunurong Country/Scoresby
3 May 2025 – Qld Music Trails – Outback Sounds @ Charleville Showgrounds, Bidjara Country/Charleville
Image used with permission from Sony Music Australia