Fiddle, fire & fresh bluegrass—LEONA’s brand-new EP has arrived!

Fiddle, fire & fresh bluegrass—LEONA’s brand-new EP has arrived! | September 12, 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

From Tokyo to Tennessee— LEONA’s new self-titled EP has arrived!

NASHVILLE, TN (September 12, 2025)– International Bluegrass and Americana singer-fiddler LEONA has officially released her brand-new self-titled EP, available today on all major digital platforms for fans worldwide.

LEONA features three chart-topping singles already making waves in the bluegrass community: the radio sensation “Virginia in the Springtime” (Richard Bennett, Shawn Lane), “Lemon Gap” (Leona, Richard Bennett), and “Dancing ’Round the Fire” (Joie Scott, Alaina Stacey, Blue Miller). Together, the tracks showcase the Tokyo-born artist’s distinctive artistry, blending tradition with fresh, contemporary energy.

“When we began choosing and writing material for this project, I wanted it to reflect my growth not only as a singer and fiddler, but also as a professional and International woman in bluegrass,” said Leona. “As a Japanese woman making music in America, I hope to represent strength and authenticity for others following their dreams.”

The five song collection is a vibrant mix of traditional and modern bluegrass with hints of blues, jazz, and even pop textures—an eclectic playlist that flows seamlessly from start to finish. Recorded and produced by Steve Wilson (Wilson Banjo Co.) at Oakway Music House in Upstate South Carolina, the EP captures the energy of Leona’s expressive vocals, her fiery fiddle work, and the skill of a top-tier studio band.

Leona has been performing live alongside legendary guitarist Richard Bennett, and recently appeared at Nashville’s Station Inn with him and Eli Johnston (Authentic Unlimited). Fans can also catch her live next week at IBMA World of Bluegrass in Chattanooga, TN, where she’ll take the International Stage and perform during the Bluegrass Country Radio Showcase.

“I’m so thrilled to be recording incredible music here in America with such fine musicians,” Leona shared. “The songwriters on this project are so talented, and I feel humbled that they trusted me with their work. I’m grateful for everyone who has believed in me and helped push me forward on this journey. I can’t wait to see what’s next!”

EP NAME: LEONA
BAND/ARTIST: Fiddling Leona
UPC CODE: 199519475246
RELEASE DATE: 9/12/2025

PROJECT CREDITS:

LEONA: LEAD VOCAL 1-5, FIDDLE 1-5, HARMONY 2-5
RICHARD BENNETT: GUITAR 1-5, HARMONY 1,2,5
STEVE WILSON: BANJO 1-5, HARMONY 1,2
JASON FRALEY: MANDOLIN 1,5
BLAKE YOUNG: MANDOLIN 2,3,4
GLEN CRAIN: RESO GUITAR 2-4
JAIME CARTER: BASS 1-5

PRODUCED BY: Steve Wilson
ENGINEER: Steve Wilson
MIX | MASTER: Steve Wilson
MUSIC SUPERVISOR: Melanie Wilson
DISTRIBUTION: Oakway Music House
GRAPHIC ART: Melanie Wilson, Wilson Pickins Promotions
PHOTOGRAPHER: Laci Mack
RADIO: Wilson Pickins Promotions

The LEONA EP is available now for streaming and download worldwide, HERE. Radio programmers may request direct MP3 and WAV files through Leona’s radio team, HERE. Follow @fiddlingleona on social media for updates, tour dates, and behind-the-scenes content.

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About Leona

Recording artist Leona is a vocalist, fiddler, and performer originally from Tokyo, Japan, now based in Tennessee. She began violin lessons at the age of four and grew up surrounded by music thanks to her father, guitarist Dr. K, a professional musician since the 1970s.

Her musical journey took her to the U.S. in 2004, where she first attended fiddle camps in Nashville. Two years later, she became the first international student to enroll in the Bluegrass and Country Music program at East Tennessee State University, performing with their touring ensemble across Appalachia. In 2006, she represented Japan at SXSW in Austin, TX, performing alongside shamisen player Takeharu Kunimoto.

Since then, Leona has toured internationally with bluegrass greats including Bobby Osborne, the Lonesome River Band, and J.D. Crowe, and has performed for audiences from Alaska to Hawaii to Japan, including as the headlining entertainer at the U.S. Marine Corps Futenma Flightline Festival in Okinawa. She later earned a certificate in Digital Audio Recording from the Kentucky School of Bluegrass and Traditional Music.

Leona has independently released three solo albums—A New Peace Within, Love & Peace, Leona, and On My Own—which received acclaim in both the U.S. and Japan. In 2024, she began working with producer/engineer Steve Wilson to record her new self-titled project, already home to three Top 10 singles. With her unique perspective and powerful artistry, Leona continues to bridge cultures while carving her path as one of bluegrass music’s most exciting voices.