Max McNown’s Heartfelt Folk Stirs Railbird Festival 2025 Day 2

By on June 17, 2025

The Kentucky afternoon was golden on June 1, 2025, when Max McNown took the Elkhorn Stage at Railbird Festival. His 2:45 p.m. set brought raw, introspective folk to Lexington’s Red Mile, tugging at the crowd’s heartstrings. Consequently, fans, now gathering in the infield, hushed for his tender voice. For 45 minutes, this Montana-born songwriter spun stories of love and loss, adding soul to Day 2.

File Photo: Max McNown and his band performs in Lexington Kentucky at the Railbird Festival on June 1, 2025. (Photo Credit and Copyright; Larry Philpot/SoundstagePhotography.com)

His performance was a blend of quiet power and honest lyrics. For instance, he opened with “A Lot More Free,” its gentle strum hooking listeners fast. Meanwhile, McNown’s vocals carried a soft, weathered ache, like a late-night confession. His band—small but tight—kept the sound warm, with Caleb Harris’ guitar adding subtle twang. Moreover, “Worry ’Bout My Wandering” had fans swaying, its emotional depth sparking nods. By the end, with “Better Days,” the crowd clapped softly, moved by his sincerity.

From Montana Prairies to Nashville Stages

Max McNown, born around 1998 in Kalispell, Montana (exact date unavailable), grew up on a ranch under wide skies. Music found him young; at 12, he picked up guitar, inspired by his dad’s Johnny Cash records. Consequently, he started writing songs, drawn to folk’s storytelling. By high school, he was playing local coffee shops, honing a sound rooted in Montana’s rugged beauty.

File Photo: Max McNown and his band performs in Lexington Kentucky at the Railbird Festival on June 1, 2025. (Photo Credit and Copyright; Larry Philpot/SoundstagePhotography.com)

McNown moved to Nashville in 2020, chasing a music career. His 2023 debut EP, A Different Kind of Blue, caught attention, with “A Lot More Free” gaining streams. For example, his 2024 single “Worry ’Bout My Wandering” broke through, hitting country-folk playlists. Now based in Nashville, he blends folk, country, and Americana, often compared to Zach Bryan for his raw, poetic style. His grassroots rise has landed him festival slots like Railbird.

Bands and Bandmates

McNown performs under his own name, backed by a rotating touring band, with no other major band affiliations noted. His current lineup includes:

  • Max McNown – vocals, guitar
  • Caleb Harris – guitar
  • Evan Davis – bass
  • Tyler Thompson – drums

He’s shared stages with acts like Charles Wesley Godwin but hasn’t formed formal collaborations. Meanwhile, his personal life stays private, with no news of romantic ties to other artists. For instance, McNown’s interviews focus on his songwriting, often mentioning his Montana roots. His low-key demeanor keeps the spotlight on his music, not drama.

Television, Film, and Awards

McNown’s media presence is modest, fitting his early career. He appeared on a 2024 episode of Acoustic Sessions, a Nashville web series, performing “Worry ’Bout My Wandering.” Additionally, his song “A Lot More Free” was featured in a 2024 indie film, Montana Roads, about a drifter’s journey. For awards, he hasn’t won major ones yet, but he was nominated for the 2025 Americana Music Association’s Emerging Act. Moreover, he won the 2023 Montana Music Awards for Best New Artist, a nod to his hometown. Hall of fame talks are far off, but his buzz suggests growth.

File Photo: Max McNown and his band performs in Lexington Kentucky at the Railbird Festival on June 1, 2025. (Photo Credit and Copyright; Larry Philpot/SoundstagePhotography.com)

Biggest Songs

McNown’s music thrives on streaming platforms and festival stages, with a few tracks gaining traction:

  • “A Lot More Free” – Written by Max McNown, this 2023 single has millions of streams, a folk favorite.
  • “Worry ’Bout My Wandering” – Penned by McNown and Ben Chapman, this 2024 track hit country-folk playlists.
  • “Better Days” – Written by McNown, this 2023 song from his EP is a live-show staple.

Controversies

McNown has stayed clear of trouble, keeping his image clean. However, in 2024, he faced mild online criticism after a festival set ran short due to vocal strain. Some fans grumbled, but he apologized, citing a cold, and rescheduled a free local show. Consequently, the issue faded quickly, with most supporters backing him. Otherwise, his focus on music and quiet life keep him out of headlines, letting his songs speak.

The Railbird Reflection

At Railbird, McNown turned the Elkhorn Stage into a quiet haven. His set felt like a campfire storytelling session. For instance, “A Lot More Free” opened with his gentle strums, pulling fans into his world. Meanwhile, his banter—about Montana sunsets and lost love—drew soft nods from the crowd. Harris’ guitar in “Worry ’Bout My Wandering” added a warm layer, sparking sways.

The stage setup was minimal—acoustic guitar, bass, and light drums—but it suited his sound. As a result, the crowd, a mix of folk fans and festivalgoers, leaned in, some closing eyes to listen. During “Better Days,” McNown’s voice cracked with emotion, earning soft applause. Moreover, his cover of Townes Van Zandt’s “Pancho and Lefty” was a surprise hit, its raw delivery connecting with purists.

Yet, the set had a small snag. A brief sound mix issue muddled “Worry ’Bout My Wandering’s” intro, but McNown’s grin kept the mood light. Additionally, the 2:45 p.m. slot meant some fans were still navigating food lines, missing the start. Nevertheless, those present were captivated, snapping photos and humming along. By the end, the Elkhorn Stage glowed with intimacy, fans buzzing about his lyrics.

McNown’s performance was a Day 2 gem, blending folk heart with festival spirit. For example, his story about writing “A Lot More Free” on a ranch felt real, resonating with the crowd. Meanwhile, his music carried a gentle weight, appealing to young and old. Consequently, he proved he’s a rising star, holding his own among louder acts. His set was a nod to Railbird’s love for honest songwriting.

As he left the stage, fans lingered, swapping tales of his voice and hunting for merch. His performance showed why Railbird champions new talent. McNown brought soul, simplicity, and a touch of Montana calm, making the Elkhorn Stage his own. As a result, his music echoed across the infield, a tender pause in Day 2’s fire. The Kentucky afternoon seemed to soften as his notes faded.

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