Country music fan club app, CountryLine has acquired MediaCityUK-based Chris Country Radio.
The deal will create the UK’s leading country music media group.
CountryLine describes itself as the world’s “first (and only) fan club app for country.”
It was launched in 2018 by media entrepreneurs Simon Walker and Nathalie Cox, and backed by Sir Elton John. It’s now live in the US, UK and Ireland, with plans to roll out around the world over the next 24 months.
“Country music has the best fans in the world – they are passionate about the music of course, but they also love the whole Nashville lifestyle. We created CountryLine to help fans live their best country lives, and teaming up with Chris Country completes the package,” said Nathalie Cox, CountryLine’s Creative Director.
Chris Country was founded in 2013 by Chris Stevens, who also presents the station’s breakfast show. It operates on DAB in Manchester, Liverpool and became London’s first 24/7 digital country music radio station in 2016.
“Country is growing fast around the world. Joining forces with CountryLine means we can deliver an even better experience for audiences and artists alike,” he stated.
As part of the deal, Stevens will join CountryLine as Head of Global Audio, and will continue to programme and manage Chris Country Radio.
