Karley Scott Collins has recently unveiled her newest single, "Marlboro Reds". Building on this latest release, she unmistakably infuses this country tune with a rockier edge, fuelled by her soulful and gritty energy. Hailing from Florida, she has earned a spot in CMT’s Next Women of Country Class of 2024, solidifying her status as one of the most promising emerging female artists. As Karley gears up for her upcoming European tour next month, including a debut at the C2C Festival, we were intrigued to learn more about her artistic journey.

I'm liking the sound of your brand new blues-infused gritty song, "Marlboro Reds". How do you feel its reception has been so far? 

Thank you!! It’s been really cool to see how many people relate to spending time with their grandparents and hearing stories. Lots of people have reached out about Marlboro Reds and how it has brought back so many good memories for them…It’s also the first song for me that’s being played on the Highway on Siriusxm, so that’s been really cool.

I believe you got your publishing deal in 2019. What was the main catalyst that led to this?

I had been taking trips to Nashville to write for a little while. One of the days that I was there, one of the publishers walked by while I was playing one of my songs for a co-writer and asked to meet! 

What do you think being named alongside established artists like Kelsea Ballerini, Maren Morris, Carly Pearce, and Lainey Wilson in CMT's Next Women of Country Class of 2024 says about the future of your career and the direction of country music?

It was absolutely such an honor to be named one of CMT’s Next Women of Country. It’s a program that I’ve admired and dreamed of being a part of for many years, so I was very excited to get to be a part of it. I think CMT is one of the best and most intentional at picking out new female artists that have potential to succeed in country music, and it really means a lot that they gave me their vote of confidence. 

I'm looking forward to watching you at the C2C Festival in London. Is this your first time performing in Europe?

I’m so excited! Not only is it my first time performing in Europe but it’s my first time even getting to go to Europe. It is also my first time to play in an arena. So there will be a lot of firsts, I cannot wait. 

You're soon to be opening for Willie Nelson – this must be a huge deal. Does this make you nervous, or are you used to it now?

I wasn’t nervous at all, just mostly excited because he’s someone I’ve admired and looked up to for my entire life and career. I had such a great time on the road with him and his team, and he was so kind to me. He wore my shirt from my “Hands on the Wheel” EP on stage, so that was one of the coolest moments I’ve had.

I read you were brushing up on your lead guitar skills. How's the shredding coming along?

It’s coming along well! When I have full band shows, I’m playing some of the electric guitar solos live so that’s been a lot of fun! 

Who are your main influences?

Of course Willie, but also people like Stevie Nicks, Bob Dylan and Guns and Roses. I’m all over the map!

If you could pick one person to collaborate with (dead or alive), who would this be?

The ultimate one for me would probably be Chris Stapleton. He’s one of those people that the second he opens his mouth, your jaw drops. Also Nate Smith. He is someone who I really love right now…I love the rock edge he has and I’ve loved his voice and music for years, and I think we’d do something really cool together. 

What has been your most memorable show to date? 

I’d have to say getting to sing Gospel with Willie during his set was really special. Also playing Marlboro Reds live for my Nana for the first time at the House of Blues on the Larry Fleet tour was awesome.

Is there anyone new on your music radar you're really digging at the moment? 

Tyler Childers…I listen to his music a lot. There’s something about his voice and the way he sings that’s just one of a kind, and very honest.  

Have you got a message for your fans and followers?

To my fans and followers- I’d just say that them listening to my music and being so invested is the only reason that I get the opportunity to release new music that I love. They are the reason I get to stand on stage & sing my songs. I am just so grateful for all of you out there. I’m so lucky to have found a group of people who can relate to me and who I relate to as well. I can’t wait for you to hear what I have coming and what I’ve been working on!

Thanks Karley - all the best for the future!

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and Managing Director of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.