Russell, Kentucky
Rail City Fest | June 2026
EPK: https://app.sonicbids.com/epk/liz-langston
The Road to Kentucky
What started as a festival invitation became one of the most memorable weekends of my music career.
Traveling from Lexington, South Carolina, to Russell, Kentucky, gave me the opportunity to perform at Rail City Fest as the first of five artists before LANCO. While stepping onto that stage was an exciting milestone, what stayed with me long after the festival ended was everything that happened off the stage.
Discovering Kentucky's Appalachian Music Community
One of the most meaningful parts of the trip was experiencing eastern Kentucky's Appalachian music community.
From the moment I arrived, I was welcomed by artists who genuinely celebrated each other's successes. There wasn't a sense of competition or trying to outshine one another. Instead, musicians encouraged each other, shared opportunities, cheered from the side of the stage, and made every artist feel like they belonged.
It felt less like arriving at a festival and more like becoming part of a family.
That spirit reminded me why I love this genre and why I hope to continue building my career throughout Appalachia and the Southeast.
Wander Russell
The entire weekend was made possible by Wander Russell, whose team created one of the most welcoming and well-organized festivals I've experienced.
From artist hospitality to scheduling, communication, and the overall atmosphere, every detail felt intentional. They created an event that celebrated not only music but also the local community, giving visitors the chance to experience everything Russell has to offer.
Their passion for supporting artists and showcasing eastern Kentucky was evident throughout the weekend, and I'm incredibly grateful to have been part of it.
More Than a Performance
As someone who loves traveling, exploring new places, and learning about different cultures and communities, this trip reminded me why I continue pursuing music.
Every town has its own personality.
Every community has stories worth hearing.
Every mountain has something to teach you if you're willing to slow down and listen.
Russell wasn't just another stop on the map.
It became part of my story.
Favorite Memories
• Playing Rail City Fest before LANCO
• Meeting artists from across Appalachia
• Experiencing Kentucky's music community
• Exploring Russell
• Watching another small town come alive through music
Wherever the road leads next, I'll bring home another story.
