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Jeremy Williams-Chalmers
Arts Correspondent
@jeremydwilliams
P.ublished 14th February 2026
arts
Interview

Character-Led: Nathan Carter On Papal Performances, Robbie Williams' Hitmaker And Why Country Fans Are The Most Loyal

Nathan Carter
Nathan Carter
Blending country charm with an Irish heart, Nathan Carter has become one of the most enduring and beloved figures in modern country music, building a career defined by versatility, determination and a fiercely loyal fan base.

Known for his ability to seamlessly merge pop, Irish folk and traditional country sounds, Carter has carved out a unique space in the genre. His concerts are renowned for their energetic atmosphere, drawing crowds spanning multiple generations. For many fans, his shows are less about simply watching a performance and more about being part of a shared celebration — an electric, feel-good experience that keeps audiences returning time and time again.

Carter’s rise to prominence was cemented through a string of hugely popular tracks, including Wagon Wheel and I Wanna Dance, both of which became major crowd favourites and staples of his live performances. Carter's success has been remarkable, as his album sales in Ireland have surpassed those of major international stars like One Direction, Pharrell Williams, and Michael Bublé. In 2013, Carter made history by becoming the first Irish country act since Garth Brooks to reach number one in the Irish charts, firmly establishing him as one of the country’s most influential country artists.

Nathan Carter
Nathan Carter
With his debut album released over 20 years ago, Carter has amassed a wealth of career highlights and memorable experiences. Among them is the remarkable achievement of outselling Beyoncé in Ireland during his peak chart success, a testament to his immense popularity on home soil. Another standout moment came when he performed for Pope Francis during the pontiff’s historic visit to Ireland, taking to the stage at Dublin’s iconic Croke Park, further highlighting Carter’s status as one of Ireland’s most cherished entertainers.

Despite an already impressive catalogue, Carter shows no signs of slowing down and is currently working on new material alongside renowned songwriter and producer Guy Chambers, best known for penning hits such as Angels and Rock DJ for Robbie Williams. The collaboration signals an exciting new chapter in Carter’s career and hints at a fresh evolution of his sound.

Although Carter admits he never anticipated the scale of success he has achieved, he continues to set ambitious goals. Having already performed at prestigious venues such as the London Palladium and Carnegie Hall, he now has his sights firmly set on performing at the legendary Royal Albert Hall, a venue that remains a personal dream following a visit there last December.

Nathan Carter
Nathan Carter
Carter is quick to acknowledge that his enduring career has been built largely on the strength of his dedicated audience. Despite relatively limited radio support, he has maintained remarkable popularity through touring and direct connection with fans. He notes that shifts within organisations such as the BBC, particularly the centralisation of local radio, have reduced the regional championing that once helped boost artists like himself. Carter believes country music’s loyal following has played a crucial role in sustaining his success and often reflects that had he pursued a purely pop-focused path, he might never have discovered such a devoted and supportive audience.

While celebrating his long-standing career, Carter continues to look forward. One artist currently inspiring him is rising country star Lainey Wilson, whose rich, traditional sound he greatly admires and with whom he would love to collaborate in the future. With new music on the horizon, continued touring and ambitions still burning brightly, Nathan Carter remains a leading force in Irish country music, demonstrating not only talent and versatility but also the enduring power of connection between artist and audience.

Nathan will be bringing his ‘Priceless Tour’ to Westmorland Hall on 20th Feb and 22nd Feb Manchester Bridgewater Hall.
Tickets available at ticketline.co.uk/