Ssh! Everybody is asleep in my house apart from the cat who is looking mildly annoyed at not being fed for the last half hour. I’m not tired yet, so I am dipping into my review in-tray and have pulled out two tracks by an artist that is new to me (but probably not to you) – the country artist Verna Margaret.
Here is the press pack biography that introduces her to us:
Virginia Beach-born artist Verna Margaret bridges the gap between modern country and its traditional roots, blending classic instrumentation with sincere, selfless storytelling. Her love for music began early—she wrote her first song at age three, inspired by a baby bird leaving its nest. By eight, she was captivated by the world of country music, finding comfort in watching CMT and absorbing everything she could about the genre. From ages 14 to 22, Verna Margaret honed her craft as part of a rock band, gaining invaluable experience and shaping her artistic voice. In 2016, she moved to Los Angeles and has since reconnected with her roots, writing and developing her sound, and chasing the dreams that first formed in front of a TV screen. Verna Margaret draws lyrical inspiration from songwriting legends like John Prine and Lucinda Williams, channels the musical spirit of Jerry Jeff Walker and Emmylou Harris, and evokes the timeless vocals of Patsy Cline and Linda Ronstadt.
“Paper Cut” is out June 27. I am told that “Paper Cut” reflects on self-interest, missed connections, and the strange comedy of craving something you’d never actually choose. Led by Verna Margaret’s soulful, rich vocals and accompanied by acoustic guitar, “Paper Cut” is equal parts misanthropic, edgy, and ultimately, fun.”
As I listened to this it was my introduction to Verna, the first time I had heard her music. I was taken into a sway along to the music country track that I would love to hear late at night played with the sun setting over the sea! The vocals are dreamy, the music gently uplifting. I would suggest country radio would gain from giving this a spin, it has a decent kick to it.
“White Shutters, Red Door” is an earlier single that came along in my press pack. It was released May 16, 2025 so it is a close cousin to “Paper Cut.” Playing them together is to enter the world of lonely roads and slightly haunting melodies. The stories are told infusing folk with country and this one has an interesting melodic instrumental mid track that I enjoyed.
“Tumbling Waltz” was me dipping a bit further into the back catalogue. I’m not sure when this was released but it has those folk elements combined with Verna’s vocals that soar over the gentle melody. Definitely worth a listen for a fine vocal performance, slightly musical theatre in style this one.
Taken together, these tracks map out a distinctive sound—equal parts sepia-toned nostalgia and sharp-edged wit. Verna Margaret doesn’t just sing; she narrates from the edge of a barstool, eyes on the horizon, glass half full (of heartbreak or bourbon, your guess). Prepare to tumble down a rabbit hole of sun-dappled sorrow and strangely comforting detachment. Verna’s music lingers like the last glow of dusk—gorgeous, a little sad, and somehow what you needed.
Whether you’re a sucker for sad songs or just in it for the vibes, give Verna Margaret a spin.
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You can stream music from Verna Margaret here
By Anna-Louise Burgess