In a poignant instalment of Ben’s Country Music Show, the program pays a heartfelt farewell to a true pioneer, The Mavericks' frontman Raul Malo, following his passing; Ben explores the band's unique ability to blend country, rock, and Latin rhythms, specifically revisiting their massive 1998 UK breakthrough "Dance the Night Away" and sharing a final, stirring letter Malo wrote to his fans. Alongside the tribute, there's a chance to look ahead to "the biggest year ever" for country music in the UK, as Ben breaks down a staggering 2026 tour calendar that includes Garth Brooks at Hyde Park, Zach Bryan’s massive stadium dates, and Megan Moroney’s newly announced Cloud9 World Tour. Our Album of the Week is Lainey Wilson’s Peace, Love, and Cowboys (Holiday Edition), where her soulful rendition of the George Strait classic "Christmas Cookies" is a highlight. There's also a look at Kenny Chesney's new memoir Heart, Life, Music.