The chart, which is the first genre-specific radio chart in the UK, aims to serve as a key measure of which songs are being enjoyed most frequently by listeners across the country and is produced in collaboration with music company Radiomonitor, and the UK branch of the Country Music Association.
[1] The first number one song on the UK Country Airplay chart was "Creek Will Rise" by Conner Smith.
The creation of the chart was spearheaded by the increase in popularity of country music within the UK and was described by Milly Olykan, vice president of international relations and development for the CMA, as a “pivotal initiative in a move towards more mainstream moments for the genre” and noting how the consumption of country music in the UK increased by 40% in 2023.
In a statement following the announcement of the chart, Olkyan explained “This is an incredibly exciting time for country music in the UK.
This new radio chart will provide another exposure opportunity to further elevate Country artists and allow for greater engagement with fans.