The latest single from UK-based Americana rock band Morganway gets right to the heart of problems faced by bands and artists in the music industry today. Like other musicians, they constantly give of themselves, from contributing their imaginations and musical gifts to devoting their time and energy to touring. But for all they offer, the music ‘machine’ merely exploits them, gaining revenue while not giving a great deal back. With their direct words and strident message, Morganway deliver a statement about the business: “Yeah we give to the machine but we don’t get it back // Feeling all your vibrations // But I want more from our creation, yeah // Still burnt out from working late // Counting pennies for the streams they take.” The song touches on the key issues of the streaming age: the balance between creative effort and reward and the struggles of small music venues.
‘Machine’ begins in hymn-like fashion with the bandmembers singing in beautiful harmony before bursting into life. Full of energy and attitude, the song then combines strong percussion, chunky guitar and flying fiddle. Over it all, SJ Mortimer’s voice soars, rising on melodic highs with soulful character and impressive technique and control. Recorded live as a band, the song channels the chemistry and energy that fans know Morganway bring to the stage. The end result is infectiously upbeat – a defiant, resounding, uplifting anthem for determined artists that stay out on the road and continue releasing music, trying to make ends meet in an industry that seems stacked against them despite the fact that their creativity is the business’s sole saleable asset.
Mortimer describes ‘Machine’ as, “…our ‘break-up letter’ to Spotify! The release coincided with Folk Alliance International where we were showcasing in New Orleans. We’re doing things a little differently with this release by only releasing the song via BandCamp, with 10% of every download going to Music Venue Trust. ‘Machine’ is our way of saying what so many independent bands are feeling. We put our music, time, and energy into the system, and too often that support isn’t returned by the platforms themselves. Our fans, though, give back endlessly, that human connection is everything to us. This song felt like it needed to live outside of Spotify to stay honest to its message.” So, along with an official video on YouTube, ‘Machine’ can only be downloaded from BandCamp. It’s a bold decision that music-lovers should appreciate.
Of course, the Music Venue Trust is part of the machine that does give back and is very worthy of support. “Both Music Venue Trust and BandCamp are supporting artists more than ever, especially grassroots and the independent sector. We want to do our bit to support machines that do give back, as these organisations are so important in keeping the independent music scene alive and thriving.”
After a busy 2025, in which they released their acclaimed third studio album “Kill the Silence”, Morganway have just completed their first showcases in the USA, including a performance as an official showcase artist at Folk Alliance International in New Orleans. It’s a major step forward for the East Anglian band. Meanwhile the sense of purpose and style in ‘Machine’ is a real statement of intent. Give this some support.
