ZFM Country

TOP 20 CMT AND #1 AUSTRALIAN HITMAKER SHEA FISHER TEAMS UP WITH WALKER HAYES FOR BOOT-STOMPING. NEW SINGLE “OW IN COWBOY” – OUT AUGUST 4 WITH MUSIC VIDEO

There’s an undeniable spark that follows Shea Fisher-equal parts grit, charm, and a deep connection to her roots. From her rodeo upbringing in Australia to her life now on a Texas ranch, Shea’s journey as a singer-songwriter has always been intertwined with real life: the highs, the heartbreaks, the hustle-and the joy. It’s that blend of authenticity and attitude that makes her newest single, “Ow in Cowboy”, the perfect next chapter in her story.

Co-written with her longtime friend and #1 country hitmaker Walker Hayes, “Ow in Cowboy” is a high-energy, boot-stomping track full of humor and heart.

“We finished it in under an hour,” says Shea. “It’ s one of those feel-good songs that had us laughing the whole time. I kept the demo tucked away for a few years, but I always felt like it was something the world needed to hear. Because let’s be honest-we could all use a little more fun these days.”

The release follows the momentum of Shea’s comeback single, “Take Me Back to Texas,” a poignant ballad co-written with Grammy Award winning Jessie Jo Dillion and Karyn Rochelle (Garth Brooks’ longtime harmony singer) that marked her return to music after several years focused on family and business. The track resonated widely, earning multiple media appearances and spotlighting Shea’s ability to blend deep emotion with strong storytelling. Its music video-filmed on her family ranch near Fort Worth-offered a glimpse into the life she’s built and the place she calls home. The success of the single sparked a major surge in online engagement (@sheafishermusic), with her social media following growing rapidly as fans reconnected with her story and sound.

Shea’s path to country music stardom has never followed a formula. Born in Australia to rodeo royalty-her father a champion bull rider, her mother a barrel racing champion-Shea spent her childhood on the rodeo circuit, competing from the age of five. A formative two-year move to the U.S. during her dad’s time on the PBR Bud Light Cup Tour took her to Nashville and Texas, planting the seeds for her future in country music.

At 19, Shea became one of Australia’s youngest country stars, earning #1 hits on the Country Charts with songs like “Just the Excuse” and “Everyday Girl.” That success brought her back to Nashville, where she signed with Stroudavarious Records and landed a Top 20 CMT video with “Don’t Chase Me,” followed by the release of “Suitcase” and “Don’t Chase Me,” both of which earned significant airplay on CMT and GAC. When the label unexpectedly closed, Shea chose to stay in the States, building her career-and life-on her own terms.

Today, Shea lives in Texas with her husband, World Champion Tie Down Roper Tyson Durfey, and their three children. She’s a successful entrepreneur, having built Shea Baby, a children’s fashion line now in over 2,500 stores nationwide, and Shea Michelle Buckles, a custom silversmith company creating one-of-a-kind rodeo buckles for clients across the country. Her wellness brand, Fit with Shea, empowers women through fitness, nutrition, and body confidence. While pursuing these ventures, Shea also returned to her rodeo roots, once again competing in barrel racing and winning several pro rodeos in recent years.

But music remains at the heart of it all.

Even with a full plate, music never left her heart. In 2024, Fisher made a conscious decision to return to the studio with a renewed sense of honesty, energy, and life experience, fueling her most authentic and dynamic music yet. Since then, she has steadily built momentum with numerous press appearances and standout performances, including singing the national anthem at the Texas Rangers game in June 2025 and captivating 20,000+ fans at the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas.

“Ow in Cowboy” is just one of several new songs slated for release, including “The Truck,” a country-pop-rock anthem co-written with hit songwriter Jaron Boyer (Jason Aldean, Rascal Flatts, Dierks Bentley).

Shea’s return isn’t just about chasing chart positions-it’s about claiming her space. “At first, I wondered if it was too late to come back,” she says. “But now I realize women like me-moms, entrepreneurs, dreamers-we have stories to tell. And people are listening.”

Victoria Crosby is a country singer-songwriter and bush balladeer from Far North Queensland. Known for her rich storytelling and heartfelt vocals, she writes songs rooted in the land, history, and people of the outback. Her third single Flowers for Annie is a haunting tribute inspired by a real-life tragedy in the early 1900s bush settlement of Mungana. With echoes of traditional bush ballads and a deeply emotional delivery, Victoria honours Annie’s legacy with grace and reverence. This release follows the success of her debut North of the Range and her second single Red Dome Dust, and continues building momentum ahead of her debut album North of the Range, due in 2026.

SINGER/SONGWRITER CAITLYN SHADBOLT RELEASES NEW SINGLE, WILDFLOWERS.

Aussie country singer/songwriter, Caitlyn Shadbolt, releases her new single, Wildflowers. An accomplished songwriter, Caitlyn penned the track with the equally prolific songwriter, Gavin Carfoot, and songstress Tori Darke. The track was produced by Caitlyn, Gavin and Jared Adlam.

This is the follow up to her most recent singles, “Where The Lemons Grow” and “Homemade Honey” which impacted the Top 50 National Country Airplay chart.

Performing at this year’s Gympie Muster, Caitlyn describes the song, “Wildflowers is for all the women who can fix a fence, dance in heels, and charm the socks off a cowboy-sometimes all in the same day. It’s a little sassy, a little sweet, and all heart.”

Caitlyn Shadbolt is an Australian contemporary country artist and songwriter. A finalist in the sixth season of The ‘X Factor’ Australia (2014), Caitlyn secured a recording deal with ABC MUSIC and released her debut album, Songs On My Sleeve (May 2017). Upon release, the album hit #1 on the ARIA Country Album chart. The first single, ‘My Break Up Anthem’, held the #1 National Country Airplay Chart for over 8 consecutive weeks and became the 2nd most played song on Country Radio (held out of the top spot by Sam Hunt’s monster hit ‘Body Like A Backroad’). Caitlyn was recognised for her achievements by winning the CMC Award for Best New Artist, along with a nomination for Female Artist of the Year. Since then Caitlyn has released two further albums, Stages, and the most recent “Bloom & Surrender.” Caitlyn recently completed her degree in Health Sciences specialising in Naturopathy as well.

After almost four years of searching for the right words, Lane Pittman has finally found the way to honour the man who meant the most. ‘Man I’m Turning Out To Be’ is a deeply personal tribute to Lane’s late father – a song born from loss, growth, and the journey of a boy forced to grow up far too soon.

What began as a raw and emotional “trauma dump,” as Lane describes it, during a writing session in Nashville with Lydia Sutherland and Aaron Pollock, became something more than just a song. It became a healing process. The track starts in a place of quiet reflection – humble lyrics wrapped in Lane’s signature acoustic grit – and grows into something powerful, anthemic, and uplifting. It’s about sorrow, yes, but more than that, it’s about pushing forward, holding onto the memories, and becoming someone your loved one would be proud of.

Lane took a leap of faith by debuting ‘Man I’m Turning Out To Be’ in front of tens of thousands during this year’s Luke Combs Stadium Tour. Night after night, the emotional weight of the song was met with overwhelming audience connection. “Grief is something everyone goes through,” Lane says. “the message is about standing tall, chasing your dreams, and making them proud – whoever ‘they’ are to you.”

This release follows the breakout success of Lane’s previous single ‘Amen For The Weekend’, which firmly planted him in the spotlight. From national TV appearances (TODAY Show, Sunrise, Good Friday Appeal) to glowing press (Rolling Stone’s Future of Music, The Music’s front cover), from streaming dominance (Spotify’s Hot Hits Australia, Viral 50 AUS/NZ, TikTok’s #1 Country) to critical acclaim (Country Radio Song of the Year, triple j Unearthed Feature Artist), Lane’s rise has been nothing short of meteoric – capped by his first Golden Guitar for New Talent of the Year.

“This song has lived in my heart for a long time,” Lane shares. “I’ve tried to write something for my dad so many times, but it never felt right – until this. There’s real stories throughout

this track, and if even one person finds peace or comfort in it, that’s enough for me. Dad, I love you. I hope I’m making you proud.”

Shanleigh Rose Heartfelt New Single “Home Girl” Celebrating Sisterhood and Friendship

Shanleigh Rose, a rising star in the music scene, has just released her latest single, “Home Girl. ” The song is a touching tribute to the friendships that form the backbone of our lives. It serves as an emotional shout-out to all the friends and ‘soul sisters’ who support us through the highs and lows of life.

Co-written by Shanleigh Rose and acclaimed songwriter Andrew Blyth, “Home Girl” takes listeners on a nostalgic journey. It highlights the bond between two women who have navigated every twist and turn together. It reflects the unique, irreplaceable connection that feels like home, despite life’s challenges and the paths that may lead them apart.

“This song is a love letter to those friendships that stand the test of time,” Shanleigh shares. “No matter how busy life gets or how far apart we are, the connections we have with our friends are what truly sustain us. ‘Home Girl’ is for every woman who has felt supported and cherished by her sisters.

With the release of “Home Girl,” Shanleigh Rose continues establishing herself as a significant voice in the industry.

“Home Girl”

The upbeat and soulful melody, along with heartfelt lyrics, makes “Home Girl” an ideal anthem for anyone who values deep friendship and shared experiences. It reminds us to appreciate the women who feel like home.

LEGENDARY COUNTRY ARTIST, WARREN H WILLIAMS, RELEASES NEW SINGLE FROM FORTHCOMING ALBUM.

NTARIA FEATURES KASEY CHAMBERS AND SHANE NICHOLSON

A legend of Australian Country Music and an Indigenous icon, Warren H Williams has created a new album in his native tongue, Western Arrarnta language. The new album is called Undar Wurmar (“Are you Listening”) and represents his 11th career album; due for release later this year. An Australian Country Music Hall of Famer and multi award winning singer songwriter, Williams has embarked on a unique album project designed to both preserve and promote indigenous language and to also gain cultural understanding and unity amongst all Australians. This will be his first full studio album in language.

The first single, Ntaria, is out now and features country music legend, Kasey Chambers, and equally prolific country artist, Shane Nicholson. Ntaria (Hermannsburg), is an Aboriginal community in the Northern Territory of Australia, west southwest of Alice Springs, on the Finke River, in the traditional lands of the Western Arrarnta people. This is where Warren H Willams was born and has lived at various stages in his life. It was also a place where Shane Nicholson sought space and penned his own song about the town. Joining Warren and Shane on this song, Kasey Chambers had spoken to Warren about doing an album in language for years.

Undar Wurmar is, without a doubt, the most important album in Warren H Williams’ career as it represents a pinnacle in a lifetime journey in music, art and culture. By the creation of this album,and standing on the platform of his 10 previous successful albums,Warren H Williams attempts to create enduring Australian and cultural legacy by revealing his true heart, culture and beginnings through language. By sharing so deeply on this record, it is Warren’s dream to completely normalise indigenous language in the mainstream and to fulfill a burning desire to continue to bridge any cultural gaps in a positive way through his music.

AUSTRALIAN BORN, NASHVILLE BASED SUCCESS STORY, SEAFORTH DROPS INFECTIOUS NEW SINGLE “THERE SHE GOES”

Australian born/Nashville based, Seaforth, release a new infectious country pop single, There She Goes. Seaforth, formerly the duo of Mitch Thompson and Tom Jordan, have had global success with streams in excess of 500 million. Moving into the next chapter, Seaforth’s Mitch Thompson will be the driving creative force.

Produced and co-written by Mitch, the song is about having that go to person by your side. As Mitch describes it, “There She Goes is about that one person who’s there though it all-when everything else is kind of a mess, they’re the one constant. No matter what I was going through, she didn’t waver. “

ABOUT SEAFORTH:

Seaforth is an Australian country-pop duo originally comprised of childhood friends Tom Jordan and Mitch Thompson. Named after their hometown of Seaforth in Sydney, the duo became known for their smooth harmonies, heartfelt lyrics, and catchy melodies that blend country and pop influences. Their breakout single, “Love That,” introduced their signature feel-good sound, quickly earning them a devoted fanbase in both Australia and Nashville.

Their subsequent releases, including the gold-certified single “Anything She Says” (featuring Mitchell Tenpenny) and the viral hit “Breakups,” solidified their place in the country scene. Their music, combined with magnetic live performances, has led to sold-out shows and festival appearances across the US, UK, and Australia. With over 500 million streams, Seaforth has cultivated a passionate fanbase that continues to resonate with their signature blend of relatable storytelling and irresistible melodies.

In 2024, the group experienced a shift when Tom Jordan decided to part ways with Seaforth to pursue solo ventures. Despite his departure, Mitch Thompson has continued to carry the Seaforth name, honouring their shared legacy while exploring new creative directions. As a solo act, Mitch remains committed to delivering the authentic and relatable music that fans have come to love, ensuring that Seaforth’s journey is far from over.

Wattmore’s Romantic Side: The Song Your Ears Didn’t Know They Were Missing

Brisbane, Australia – Wednesday 23rd July, 2025

We need to talk.

Not about your ex, not about politics, not about the fact that your lunch just got stolen from the office fridge (again). No – this is more important.

There is a song roaming the airwaves right now called Romantic Side by Wattmore, and if you haven’t played it yet… we regret to inform you: your listeners are being robbed.

This song is what happens when a heartfelt, nostalgic country anthem sneaks into a dive bar, has a drink with alt-Americana, and they decide to run off together and make something beautiful. It’s catchy. It’s authentic. It sticks to your brain like glitter to a dance floor.

This isn’t just another single – it’s a story listeners already relate to.

Fans have called it:

“The soundtrack to my best and worst decisions.”

“A song I didn’t know I needed until it ruined me in the best way.” “Like whiskey with a love note stuck to the bottle.”

And here’s the kicker:

This is already charting. Fans are already requesting it. And somewhere out there is a listener wondering why their favourite station hasn’t caught up yet.

We don’t want that to be you.

So go on – do the right thing. Spin Romantic Side. Make someone’s commute/laundry day/personal breakup montage feel like a movie scene.

Thanks for keeping good music alive.

You’re a hero already – this just seals the deal.

About Wattmore:

Wattmore are two Brisbane brothers who turn heartbreak and humour into sharp, unforgettable songs – equal parts charm, grit, and dry wit. Known for their rich harmonies, fiery guitar work, and multi-instrumental skills, they craft music that makes your ex nervous, your boots move, and your eyebrows raise (sometimes all at once).

For interviews, media inquiries, or more information

Award Winning Country Artist Cali Tucker’s single Last Name drops July 18, 2025

Cali Tucker, the award-winning country artist with a lineage steeped in Nashville tradition is back with her new single, Last Name. The single drops on all digital platforms and radio stations worldwide on July 18th. Last Name is more than just a song-it marks a bold chapter in Tucker’s artistic journey. Building on the momentum of her acclaimed singles and music videos Country Couture and Urban Cowboy, Last Name isn’t about carrying the weight of a famous family name, it’s about something deeper. Co-written by Cali Tucker alongside Derek Robertson, Tricia Battani, and Grammy-nominated G’harah “PK” Degeddingseze, this track explores the raw vulnerability of forging your own path without the safety net of family support. It’s a story of chasing dreams with relentless determination, learning to advocate for yourself in the face of loneliness, and achieving success on your own terms.

Cali shares, “I want people to know – whoever you want to be, whatever you want to do, it’s within your reach.”

Though Cali is grateful for her circle of family and friends, she is deeply aware that not everyone has that same privilege. Through Last Name, her powerful, soul-stirring vocals deliver this message with authenticity and heart – making it a true anthem for everyone fighting to be seen, heard, and valued.

As the daughter of 1970s hitmaker LaCosta Tucker and niece of the legendary Tanya Tucker, Cali embraces her family’s musical legacy while infusing it with a modern twist that resonates with today’s audience. From winning the Miss Teen All-American title to gracing the Grand Ole Opry stage and headlining top Las Vegas venues, she has steadily built a career defined by artistry and resilience. Her time as a finalist on NBC’s The Voice-mentored by Blake Shelton-launched her into the national spotlight, setting the stage for her continued success.

Over the past year, Cali’s original music has amassed millions of streams across Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube while receiving airplay worldwide. People Magazine praised her as “a blend of sweet and sassy… addictive.” She performed the National Anthem for NASCAR’s Pennzoil 400 before a crowd of 80,000 racing fans and a televised audience of over three million. Meanwhile, her music videos- Country Couture and Urban Cowboy-have swept film festivals, earning multiple Best Music Video and Best Song awards. On June 28th, she makes her debut at Aliante Casino’s Access Showroom in Las Vegas and on July 19th, she’ll take the stage alongside her iconic aunt for a special double-billed performance at Spirit Mountain Casino in Oregon.

With Last Name, Cali Tucker continues to prove that her name is one people will be talking about for years to come.

MAX MCNOWN RELEASES STIRRING NEW SINGLE “FOREVER AIN’T LONG ENOUGH” AHEAD OF DELUXE DROP OF ACCLAIMED ALBUM ‘NIGHT DIVING (THE COST OF GROWING UP)’

Rising singer-songwriter Max McNown continues to carve a path uniquely his own with the release of his latest single, “Forever Ain’t Long Enough”, out now via Fugitive Recordings/The Orchard/Columbia Records. The track is the lead offering from the upcoming deluxe edition of his celebrated sophomore album, ‘Night Diving (The Cost of Growing Up)’, out today.

A heartfelt and cinematic love song, “Forever Ain’t Long Enough” channels McNown’s signature blend of introspective lyricism and anthemic storytelling. Produced by Jamie Kenney (Colbie Caillat, Laci Kaye Booth), the single paints a picture of eternal love lived out in snapshots across the American landscape – from Catalina coastlines and Santa Fe backroads to the rain-kissed streets of Colorado and the stars above Patagonia.

“I could say forever, but forever ain’t long enough,” McNown sings in the soaring chorus, capturing the spirit of young love and limitless devotion. Reflecting on the song’s inspiration, he explains, “Some romances make you wish you could spend more than a fleeting lifetime within them, and that is the basis for ‘Forever Ain’t Long Enough.'”

The single arrives as McNown’s breakout year reaches new heights. At just 23, the Oregon-born artist has already earned an RIAA Gold certification, a Billboard Hot 100 entry, and a Top 10 Hot AC hit with his breakthrough track “A Lot More Free”. His heartfelt anthem “Better Me For You (Brown Eyes)” has surpassed 130 million streams, reached #2 on Australia’s CountrytownTop 50 Country Airplay Chart, and continues to surge at Country radio-propelling him even further into the national and international spotlight.

Following a meteoric rise from busking on Southern California piers to topping Billboard’s Emerging Artists chart, McNown’s journey remains rooted in authenticity. His soulful voice and deeply personal storytelling continue to resonate with fans, including his 2.4 million TikTok followers.

The release of “Forever Ain’t Long Enough” also ushers in the next chapter of McNown’s whirlwind year.

In May, Max completed his first-ever Australian tour with sold-out shows in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth, winning over new international fans with his heartfelt performances. Just weeks later, he took the stage at Countryfest Queensland cementing his global appeal with a standout set that lit up the festival crowd.

Back in the U.S., Max continues to build momentum with standout performances at The Grand Ole Opry and the upcoming Lollapalooza Festival, ahead of his highly anticipated “Forever Ain’t Long Enough” North American headline tour, launching August 21 in Kansas City.. The tour will be making stops in Austin at Emo’s on August 27th, Los Angeles at The Novo on September 6th, and at 9:30 Club in Washington D.C. on September 8th – see full dates below and visit maxmcnown.com/tour for tickets and more information

Reflecting on the upcoming deluxe album, McNown shared; “Even though Night Diving was the length of a full album, in my heart it never felt complete to me. These songs were all born from the same time in my life-they belong together.”

The deluxe edition of ‘Night Diving (The Cost of Growing Up)’ introduces 11 new tracks, including a moving reinterpretation of the title song – a poignant reflection on the cycles of addiction. This new version features a stirring guest verse from rising country-folk artist Cameron Whitcomb and marks a powerful milestone in the journey of a prolific young songwriter deeply rooted in his craft.

Even as his star continues to rise, McNown remains grounded in his small-town spirit – led by humility, heart, and an unwavering commitment to authentic storytelling. With every song, he furthers his mission to create music that helps listeners feel seen, heard, and understood.

As accolades pour in-including recognition as a 2025 Artist to Watch by Amazon Music, Holler, and Country Now-Max McNown remains grounded in the simple joys that fuel his artistry: community, connection, and the enduring power of honest songwriting.

“A young artist who is taking the country music industry by storm”

AL ROKER / TODAY

“…a newcomer worth watching.”

Billboard

“And while it may be easy to put McNown into some sort of box where TikTok artists go viral and then go fade away, there is a good chance that this one is different.”

People Magazine

“[one of the] brightest newly minted stars to come out of Nashville in recent years”

GRAMMY.com

‘Night Diving (The Cost of Growing Up)’, is available for pre-order on: signed D2C Exclusive Clear Black Ice Colored Vinyl, Amazon Exclusive Opaque Maroon Colored Vinyl, Indie Exclusive Opaque Bone Colored Vinyl, Opaque Tangerine Colored Vinyl, and Standard CD.