The First Time Flyers Biography

The Formation of First Time Flyers: A Fusion of Talent and Friendship

The story of First Time Flyers begins with four best friends who share a passion for music and a wealth of experience performing on some of the world’s most renowned stages. Tim Prottey-Jones, Vicki Manser, Jake Morrell, and Poppy Fardell each brought their unique talents and backgrounds to the table, setting the stage for something exceptional.

Individual Journeys

Individually, they had already made significant strides in their respective careers.

Tim Prottey-Jones, known for his time with the internationally successful band The Wandering Hearts, had garnered acclaim for his performances at iconic venues like Nashville’s Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium and is no stranger to The Britsh Country Music Festival.  (3 performances under his belt)

We have admired Vicki Manser, who dazzled audiences with her powerhouse vocals in West End productions like “Six” and “Beautiful: The Carole King Musical.”

While Jake Morrell had earned recognition as a solo artist, even catching the attention of Glastonbury Festival organiser Emily Eavis.  His single Home is a favourite in the TBCMF office.

Poppy Fardell, with her captivating stage presence and compelling songwriting, had made a mark with her debut EP and subsequent album release.  She gave a powerhouse performance on our Arena stage in 2022.

Their paths converged when they decided to join forces and create First Time Flyers. Combining their talents as lead vocalists, multi-instrumentalists and songwriters, the band quickly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with on the country music scene.

Debut and Triumph: First Time Flyers’ Inaugural Year

Their debut at the C2C Festival in 2023 was met with rave reviews, setting the stage for a successful inaugural year that included a sold-out UK headline tour, festival appearances, and even a coveted opening slot for Bruce Springsteen at BST Hyde Park.

Holler magazine reviewed of First Time Flyers at The Long Road festival  “The UK band’s Friday evening set felt sleek and polished, with their faultless four-part harmonies knitting together their summery blend of country-pop.

After opening with their much-loved May single, ‘Forget You’ – attendees were serenaded with an uplifting, high-energy rendition of ‘Gold’. It set the tone for what was to come, with the unbounded, euphoric energy of each band-member fizzling through to the Interstate Stage crowd.

Vicki Manser and Poppy Fardell took the lead for the first few songs, before Tim Prottey-Jones and Jake Morrell were given their chance to step into the spotlight.

As the focus flitted seamlessly between each member, there was an endearing feeling of unity and generosity, with Vicki, Poppy, Tim and Jake all visibly keen to showcase one another’s talents.

On the basis of this performance, it’s not difficult to see why First Time Flyers are quickly establishing themselves at the forefront of the UK’s proudly burgeoning country music scene.” Full review here

Looking Ahead: First Time Flyers’ Promising Future

As they gear up for another busy year in 2024, First Time Flyers show no signs of slowing down. With high-profile festival appearances on the horizon and a slate of new releases in the works, including collaborations with top Nashville songwriters, the band is poised to reach even greater heights.

Musical Alchemy: The Unique Sound of First Time Flyers

Each member’s unique talent and the synergy they create together sets First Time Flyers apart. Their harmonies, reminiscent of Fleetwood Mac, combined with a modern pop sensibility, create a sound that is both timeless and fresh. Their music resonates with audiences on a deep level, offering a soundtrack for life’s special moments – both big and small.  

A prolific seven single releases in 2023,  Gold, Happier, Your Side of The Bed, Just Friends, Forget You, Don’t Tempt Me, and Heartbreak Handshake.  That’s seven songs written, seven recording sessions, seven releases, seven videos, seven photo shoots, and seven hits.  

The philosopher Aristotle first coined the phrase the whole is greater than the sum of its parts.  He would be a huge fan of First Time Flyers.

First Time Flyers plan a stopover in Blackpool.

With their infectious melodies, soul-stirring lyrics and electrifying performances, First Time Flyers invite TBCMF’s audience to join them on their journey filled with music, friendship and pure joy.

Martin Blore, festival director, said, “We’ve admired Tim, Vicky, Jake, and Poppy as both individuals and musicians for quite some time. What First Time Flyers accomplished in 2023 was nothing short of a dream debut for any band; they exuded a sense of maturity and completeness from the outset. We’re thrilled to have secured their presence at our 2024 festival, and with their ongoing releases of new music, they continue to ascend to greater heights. The sky’s the limit for First Time Flyers.”