In a music landscape where genre lines often blur, Max McNown stands out as a rare and exciting talent. The Oregon native effortlessly navigates between soulful folk, raw alt-country, and catchy radio-friendly country, creating a sound that feels both fresh and distinctive. In a world where artists often fall into established categories, McNown’s versatility makes him a unique force in the evolving country genre.
Reflecting on the current state of country music, McNown notes, “There’s a ton of freedom now in the country space. It hasn’t always been that way, but for better or worse, country has embraced this country-adjacent folk world. Artists like Noah Kahan and Dylan Gossett are considered country. Country is much bigger than it used to be, and there’s a lot more variety. I like that country is becoming wider-reaching.”
McNown’s track Better Me For You (Brown Eyes) is quickly becoming a viral hit, nearing 18 million streams on Spotify in less than three months. This heartwarming ode to young love follows the success of his previous release, A Lot More Free, solidifying his place in the music scene.
His debut album, Night Diving, showcases McNown’s skill as a songsmith unafraid to reveal his true self. By eschewing genre constraints, he is carving out a space for himself that stands in contrast to the ever-changing sub-genres that dominate the market today. McNown’s authenticity ensures that he is here to stay, no matter how the industry evolves.
Looking ahead, McNown is set to make his debut performances in the UK at C2C Festival 2025. He also shared how his faith influences his songwriting and why he turned down a major talent show appearance early in his career, choosing instead to pursue his own path in the music world.
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