My Journey into Country Music and Football
It all began with a copy of LeAnn Rimes’s Greatest Hits when I was just six years old. At that tender age, I wasn’t even fully aware that LeAnn Rimes was a country artist, but her song “How Do I Live” resonated with me on a profound level. I remember listening to that track endlessly on my portable CD player, and how it had the power to whisk me away to another world. My mum often tells people that I played that CD so frequently that I nearly wore it out. While that might be an exaggeration, it’s not too far from the truth; it was the spark that ignited my passion for all things country music.
Having family in Canada helped fuel my love for the genre. I was fortunate to visit six times during my childhood, and each time we arrived in Toronto, country music seemed to be playing everywhere—from restaurants to shops. One trip in 2007 stands out vividly; it was then that I first encountered Big & Rich’s genre-defining anthem “Save a Horse.” This song is playful and cheeky, often inappropriate, yet it never fails to bring a smile to my face.
What captivates me most about country music is the storytelling woven into each song, particularly those that evoke deep emotion. I find myself irresistibly drawn to sad music; it feels like the moments when people lay bare their true feelings and vulnerabilities. It’s not that I revel in sorrow, but rather that I find the emotional resonance behind such music profoundly compelling. We all encounter hardships in life, and discovering a musician who articulates what you’re experiencing through their lyrics is incredibly powerful. Tracks like “Pieces” by Muscadine Bloodline and Lainey Wilson, or “All I Ask” by Adele, may delve into themes of heartbreak, yet they frequently top my favorites list for this very reason.
On the pitch, I experience a similar depth of feeling. When I play football, I am enveloped by the emotions of our supporters, and it’s their passion that fuels my love for the game. Sport, much like music, is about sharing a collective experience. Every time I kick a ball, I feel that I’m performing, forging a connection with those in the stands.
I see many parallels between football and country music. Country artists exhibit unwavering dedication to their craft, infusing their songs with passion. They perform with the same commitment, hard work, and love that I aspire to embody in my sport. A memorable moment that encapsulates this was the Euros final in 2022. The day was filled with hope and anticipation, felt both in the stands and on the field. Everyone present carried the weight of that moment, alongside all the fans watching from home.
My favorite country songs play a pivotal role in my pre-match ritual. While dance music has its place—especially when I need an adrenaline boost—country music helps to calm my nerves. Whether it’s an upbeat anthem from Luke Combs or my current favorite, “4x4xU” by Lainey Wilson, country tunes provide a comforting distraction that oddly helps me focus.
As many of you may know, tradition holds immense significance in my life. I’ve spent my entire career at the same football club, and the achievements I’ve enjoyed are rooted in the incredible women who paved the way before me. Each time I step onto the field, I pay homage to their legacy. Similarly, country music honors its roots. While the genre evolves and transforms, it still cherishes the music of the past. Whether it’s the soulful sound of Chris Stapleton’s Higher or the genre-blurring lyrics of Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter, contemporary songs pay tribute to the legends that came before.
Immersing Myself in Country Music
Last year, I had the incredible opportunity to fully immerse myself in the world of country music during a trip to Nashville with my grandma and cousin. This was a journey 15 years in the making, and I felt truly fortunate that everything aligned perfectly. Our visit coincided with the CMA (Country Music Association) Fest—an annual celebration dedicated to country music. It was more than just a dream to spend our first weekend soaking up the sunshine, donning cowboy boots, and enjoying the performances of amazing artists. On that first day, we made our way to the Riverfront Stage to see Gavin DeGraw perform. Often, when you build something up in your mind, the reality can fall short of your expectations. However, Nashville and its rich country music heritage exceeded everything I had imagined.
What made the experience even more special was sharing it with my family. The demands of football create a hectic schedule, and the time I have to spend with loved ones is limited. I feel immensely grateful that we could take that time together, reveling in something we all cherish.
Both country music and football evoke emotions that help me appreciate life more profoundly. They remind me of passion, family, and the enduring bonds we share. Ultimately, as I reflect on my life, I hope to know that I’ve done everything in my power to experience it all as fully as possible. As long as I can kick a ball and my favorite artists continue to release meaningful songs, I know that the two will always go hand in hand.
Leah Williamson is a professional footballer for Arsenal and England. Her new book, written with Jordan Glover, The Wonder Team and the Space Race, is out now (Macmillan Children’s Books, £7.99). Illustrated by Robin Boyden.
This Week I Have Been . . .
Flipping… pancakes. Pancake Day is one of my favorite days of the entire year, and we celebrate it at my grandma’s house. The whole family gathers together, indulging in an array of pancakes. While there are countless toppings to choose from, I prefer to keep it simple and traditional with a generous sprinkle of sugar. Of course, I also get involved with the flipping. I’m very skilled at it. In fact, flipping pancakes is one of the few culinary skills I possess.
Preparing… Each week is filled with preparation, especially when there’s a match at the end of it. I don’t adhere to any strict rituals, but rather I have a collection of small routines that help me get into the right mindset. I listen to my favorite music, engage in sudoku, and watch feel-good TV shows. Additionally, I must pay attention to my nutrition. This week, I’ve been loading up on energy-rich carbs—think pancakes, spaghetti bolognese, and garlic bread. It may seem odd to invest so much time preparing for just 90 minutes of football, but it’s essential. The actions I take throughout the week can significantly influence the match’s outcome.
Reading… I’m currently engrossed in Elizabeth Gilbert’s City of Girls. Set in the 1940s, it follows Vivian Morris as she leaves her conservative boarding school to stay with her aunt in New York. The narrative perfectly captures that late adolescent yearning to break free and discover one’s own identity. I haven’t been this captivated by a book since I first read The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid, which is high praise coming from me!
