Claire Horton PR
Review By Darren McIntyre
Images by Scott Anderson
There’s something special about an artist who’s grown up on the road — and Alyssa Bonagura carries that spirit with effortless charm. Hailing from Franklin, Tennessee, this singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist has spent the last decade carving out a sound that stretches far beyond Nashville. From recording with Kenny Rogers at just ten years old to earning her diploma from Sir Paul McCartney and penning songs for the likes of Jessie James Decker and Steven Tyler, Bonagura arrives in Glasgow with serious pedigree – but zero ego.
St Luke’s fills quickly, the crowd buzzing with anticipation. As the lights dim, Alyssa steps onstage alongside her right-hand man – and beau – Steve Shirley. No fuss, no frills. Just guitars, stories, and songs.
No Stoppin’ This Train opens the night in beautifully understated fashion. Gentle acoustic strumming drifts through the venue as Alyssa’s soulful, honeyed vocals take centre stage. The room falls silent, hanging on every lyric. Steve’s smooth electric licks add texture, lifting the track into a toe-tapping groove that instantly warms the Glasgow crowd.
She thanks us for coming out to hear her “stories from the road”, earning a heartfelt cheer before launching into New Wings. Crisp acoustic rhythms blend seamlessly with shimmering electric tones as Alyssa showcases her knack for melody. There’s an ease about her performance — confident yet intimate — that makes the venue feel like a living room session with old friends.
A cut from her forthcoming album America’s Backroads (due June 2026), Other Side Of The World, highlights her storytelling prowess. The lyrics wrap around the audience as the crowd sways gently, fully absorbed. Her voice carries depth and clarity, each word delivered with conviction.
Foundation strips things back further, with the harmonies between Alyssa and Steve shining brightly. When she invites the crowd to sing along, Glasgow obliges enthusiastically – the room erupting with warmth and applause.
Introducing Hippies & Gipsies, inspired by a one-of-a-kind pawn shop guitar and set for a spin on Bob Harris’s show, Alyssa leans into her roots. The chemistry between the duo is undeniable; their interplay is natural and heartfelt.
Closing with I Make My Own Sunshine, written during rainy Liverpool days, Alyssa turns the grey skies into pure gold. Bright acoustic tones and soaring vocals lift the mood, and the crowd sings back with gusto — laughter and smiles all round.
In a short but sweet set, Alyssa Bonagura delivers authenticity, warmth, and beautifully crafted country storytelling. Glasgow may be miles from Tennessee, but tonight at St Luke’s, it feels like home.
Alyssa Bonagura
- Alyssa Bonagura – Vocals / Acoustic Guitar
- Steve Shirley – Electric Guitar / Backing Vocals
Setlist
No Stopping This Train
New Wings
Other Side Of The World
Foundation
Hippies & Gypsies
I Make My Own Sunshine
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