Flat River Band consists of three brothers Andy, Chad and Dennijo Sitze.

The brothers would hurry home each day to enjoy reruns of The Dukes of Hazzard. One day, as they watched Rosco’s speed trap antics in Hazard County, The Oak Ridge Boys took the stage at the Boar’s Nest. It was during this performance that the brothers first heard the song “Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight.” This experience marked a pivotal moment for the Flat River Band, bringing their journey full circle.

www.flatriverband.com

Here’s a great irony that’s testament to the musical depth and stylistic reach of Orianthi’s expansive artistry. Though the clever lyrics and spirited narrative of her fiery, kick-ass single “Attention” make it the perfect country/rock single, it seems every piece written about the famed singer, songwriter and otherworldly electric guitarist only refers to pop/rock legends she’s vibed with. Her name can’t be raised without reference to her longtime collabs with Alice Cooper, Dave Stewart and Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora – and of course, Michael Jackson.

But check out these down-home truths about Orianthi’s country bona fides. MJ chose Orianthi after seeing her perform with Carrie Underwood as a featured lead guitarist at the 2009 Grammy Awards. She later performed with the country superstar at the Hollywood Bowl and again at the CMA Awards in 2016, where they played “Dirty Laundry.” Orianthi’s not only on the record in Rolling Stone calling herself a country music fan, but the multi-faceted 2018 album she did with Sambora under the name RSO included a handful of original country tunes. She said, “The great thing about country songs is the storytelling. They’re really moving and well-crafted, and that’s something Richie and I wanted to explore.” Famed country producer Dann Huff later produced their song “Walk With Me” for Delta Rae.

In 2016, Orianthi and Sambora played the pre-game show (ahead of fellow Australian Keith Urban) at the 2016 NRL Telstra Premiership Grand Final at ANZ Stadium in Sydney. In addition, Orianthi cited modern country and blues as the main inspirations for her 2013 Stewart-produced album Heaven in This Hell, which was recorded at Nashville’s Blackbird Studio and mixed by John McBride. Orianthi later scored a hit on Disney Radio with the country single “Better With You,” also mixed by McBride.

Truly a fusion of classic styled power rocker and brilliantly rendered country songcraft, “Attention” finds the singer pointedly exposing an annoying ex lover’s habit of drunk texting to rile up her cooled passions. Penned by Orianthi, Don Miggs and Gregory Hansen, it’s her second track produced and mixed by the legendary Kevin “The Caveman” Shirley, whose extensive resume includes Joe Bonamassa, Journey, Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin, Dream Theater and countless artists from his home country of South Africa and his later adopted home of Australia.

After an edgy, rhythmic guitar intro, Orianthi uses her silky, sultry vocal tone to bring us into a compelling scenario where she’s free from a complicated relationship and living life on her own terms now: “I ain’t at the Whisky/Waiting on you/Or staring at the ceiling/Sitting in a hotel room…” Then the groove, propelled by bassist Justin Andres and drummer Demian Arriaga, kicks up, and over more rhythmic, crunchy guitar energy, she tells her former significant other, “I’m sipping on tequila/With someone you knew/And you’re out on tour/Doing what you always do.” She doesn’t specify, but it feels like code for “screwing around like you did on me.”

As the track develops, Orianthi’s increasingly emotional vocals convey frustration and exasperation, then everything explodes on the killer hook where she really lets the guy have it: “You’re so predictable/You do it every time/Drunk checking on me/In the middle of the night/You know what you put me through/U just want attention.” She wraps the chorus with the mic drop line: “I’m done thinking about you,” which is followed by a cool melodic earworm of wordless background vocals. After another run through the hook, Orianthi repeats “I’m done thinking about you” over and over as her guitar wails behind her vocals for heavier emphasis.

“Attention” is perhaps best appreciated via its dynamic performance video, which shows a few close ups of her intricate guitarisma. With every new single, Orianthi reminds us that she’s still at the top of her game in every way, finding fresh, vulnerable yet attitude-filled musical stories to tell and allowing us to experience the guitar chops that have made her a modern-day musical hero. – Jonathan Widran

“Bush Kids Don’t Do Well in the City” is a raw, heartfelt track from country artist Victoria Crosby, written about her own experience with bullying and the mental health battles that followed after moving from the bush to a city high school.

Victoria proudly serves as an ambassador for Corrine’s One More Light Foundation, created in honour of 13-year-old Corrine Lee Cheu, who tragically took her own life after relentless bullying. The foundation works to raise awareness and spread hope through signage and support in schools, shops, skateparks and beyond.

Released to coincide with World Suicide Prevention Day (Sept 10), this song is Victoria’s way of saying: speak up, reach out-and don’t let the bastards win.

Domestic Violence Highlighted in ‘Scene of the Crime’ Lyn Bowtell’s new Single shines a light on dark days

In 2023 at The Dag Songwriters Retreat in Nundle NSW a song surfaced that Lyn Bowtell never planned to write. ‘Scene of the Crime’ came to life as a co-write with The Flood’s Kevin Bennett-one of those songs that just demanded to be written.

“Sometimes songs don’t give you a choice. They arrive, and you just have to find a way to give them the attention they deserve,” Lyn said.

The track was too personal and too raw to finish alone, so Lyn brought it to KB, who helped her shape the chorus. What began as a song she never intended to release, soon revealed itself in the studio as one that absolutely cried out to be heard.

‘Scene of the Crime’ is drawn from Lyn’s own lived experience of domestic violence, coercive control and alcoholism. It is also a reflection of the countless stories she hears from women who approach her after shows: “That happened to me. That’s what my sister went through. That’s what my daughter is facing.”

“We are in a crisis as a society. I don’t have the answers, but I know change begins when we create space for these difficult truths to be told and with this song I’m opening a conversation, standing in solidarity with survivors, and encouraging action.”

The music video, directed by Tracy and Josh Beveridge of Roaming Creatives, and featuring actress Esther Sparkes, walks a delicate line between honesty and sensitivity. With careful performances and unflinching imagery, the team captured the weight of the song without crossing into gratuitousness.

“Everyone felt the heaviness and emotional weight of this story. It wasn’t easy to sing nor to film, but the subject matters too much to gloss over or dilute.”

If you or someone you know is experiencing, or at risk of experiencing domestic, family or sexual violence, call 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732), text 0458 737 732 or visit their website for online chat and video call services – available 24/7.

VoicesAgainstViolence

JAKE DAVEY DROPS A COUNTRY POP BANGER WITH HIS NEW SINGLE ‘GOT IT ALL’

Rising star Jake Davey brings the heat with his slick new single, ‘Got It All’ – a punchy country-pop anthem that captures the rush of finding someone who’s truly one in a million.

“Got It All is my feel-good love anthem that radiates energy and charm,” says the singer-songwriter. It came together effortlessly on a writing trip to the country music mothership, Nashville, while recording took place back on Aussie soil. “I co-wrote it with Tyler Bank and Bryce Sainty and co-produced it with my long-time collaborator Rhys Zacher.” It’s packed with guitars that slam, modern country-pop production, and summer vibes!”

The single follows on from his 2024 release ‘Heart Like Yours’ – another team up between Jake and Rhys – and continues to cement Jake’s place as one of Australia’s most exciting country-pop voices. Holed up at Spinlight Studio in breezy Newcastle, the duo fell into a natural rhythm when crafting ‘Got it All’ .

“Working with Rhys from Spinlight Studio is always such a smooth and inspiring process,” admits Jake. “He knows exactly how to bring my sound to life, and together we’ve created something that feels authentic and exciting. The collaboration was effortless from start to finish, and I couldn’t be happier with the result.”

The music video for ‘Got It All’ matches the song’s carefree energy. Shot on location at Elizabeth Beach in NSW, the clip was co-produced by Jackson James and Jake himself, with Jake also taking the reins on the editing side. “We had a quick one-hour window while Jackson was visiting from Nashville. Total whirlwind shoot, spontaneous, sunny, and just right.”

It’s been a whirlwind few years for Jake. A 2022 Toyota Star Maker Grand Finalist, he’s shared stages with the likes of Diesel, Daryl Braithwaite, and Rick Price, while his festival résumé includes Groundwater Country Music Festival, Savannah in the Round, and iconic Tamworth Country Music Festival. He also spent 2024 on the road with Travis Collins, opening to packed audiences across the country.

But Jake’s journey hasn’t been without its detours. Diagnosed with Cauda Equina Syndrome in 2023 and told he would never walk again, Jake endured spinal surgery and months of rehabilitation. Fast forward to 2025, and not only is he walking, he’s also performing and grooving in film clips in front of and behind the camera lens. Testament to his unshakable passion for music.

Soon to take ‘Got It All’ to the stage, Jake has an upcoming string of live shows across NSW, including Lakeside Festival Tuncurry, Wingham Music Festival, Full Throttle Ranch Newcastle, and returning to his roots at the iconic Tamworth Country Music Festival in 2026. With his signature blend of heartfelt lyrics and laid-back country-pop energy, these shows are not to be missed.

With over 1.3 million streams to date, Jake Davey is proving himself as one of Australian country music’s most versatile and determined voices. ‘Got It All’ is nothing but catchy lines and good vibes – guaranteed hit material for the rising star.

COUNTRY’S RISING STAR WAYLON WYATT RETURNS WITH “WISHBONE” AHEAD OF FIRST EVER AUSTRALIAN TOUR.

FIRST SINGLE SINCE HIS LATEST EP OUT OF THE BLUE OUT TODAY VIA MUSIC SOUP/DARKROOM RECORDS

LARGEST HEADLINE TOUR TO DATE TO KICK OFF ON SEPTEMBER 4TH IN FAYETTEVILLE, ARKANSAS.

MINI-DOCUMENTARY SPOTIFY HOMEGROWN PRESENTS: WAYLON WYATT OUT NOW.

NATIONAL TELEVISION DEBUT ON CBS SATURDAY MORNING – WATCH HERE

“Waylon Wyatt Is Putting His Own Spin on Red Dirt”

• Rolling Stone

“Simple, direct and emotionally intense…a neat summation of everything that’s great about Waylon Wyatt”

• NME

“Wyatt offers gravelly, raw vocals that unapologetically shine against his sparse sonic landscape”

• Holler Country

Today, singer, songwriter, and musician Waylon Wyatt releases his heartfelt single “Wishbone,” via Music Soup/Darkroom Records. With the new track, Waylon embarks on an exciting chapter of new music, and an upcoming expansive 35+ date headline tour. Nearly all the dates have sold out, including Waylon’s hometown shows in Fayetteville, AR – and he’s recently announced a lineup of openers for the tour, including Dom Ellis, gabrielle hope, Elizabeth Nichols, Angel White, Colton Bowlin, and Jack Van Cleaf.

“Wishbone” is a sentimental guitar waltz, chronicling despair and dissipation of optimism after a heartbreak. Waylon compares lost love to the absence of all good fortune, “No four-leaf clover on God’s green Earth helped me get over the luck I lost with her,” later lamenting that “She was that clover all along.”

Waylon says of the track: “The idea of this song came to me when I was playing a show up in NYC. Me and my pops had just come back from a show of mine and we were both exhausted as can be. We both got through the hotel room door and he thought nothing of it and sat his hat on the bed. Now anybody from the south knows sittin’ your hat on a bed is bad luck. I eventually called him out on it, and he said back to me, ‘Boy I ain’t worried, I ain’t got any luck left,’ Then I thought to myself, well… that sounds like it’d be a good song.”

This summer, Waylon played his biggest festival shows yet, including Cavendish Beach Music Festival, FairWell Festival, and to passionate fans in Hyde Park opening for one of his greatest heroes, Zach Bryan. The Daily Mirror raved, “Armed with nothing more than a guitar and a collection of raw, heart-on-sleeve songs, Wyatt drew a large and curious crowd early in the at Hyde Park.” Waylon was welcomed warmly to the UK, also playing headline shows in London, Manchester, Glasgow and Dublin.

Spotify homegrown, recently released a mini-documentary profiling Waylon during his last week of high school. The short doc covers Waylon’s upbringing, work-school balance, and culminates in a performance at his high school prom. Watch his story unfold in the full mini doc on his YouTube HERE. Last weekend, Waylon also made his national television debut on CBS Saturday Morning, performing songs across his catalog: “Jailbreak (feat. Bayker Blankenship),” “Arkansas Diamond,” and “Old Habits.”

This past June, Waylon released his sophomore EP Out Of The Blue, an amalgamation of the burgeoning country influences that carries a rustic, stripped-down quality. His innocence and warmth are captured through his honest yet piercing lyrics. The EP includes “Smoke & Embers” (with Willow Avalon), a fan favorite on tour as Waylon has been inviting a lucky fan from the crowd to sing with him on stage each night.

ABOUT WAYLON WYATT:

Waylon Wyatt is an 18-year-old folk/country artist from Hackett, Arkansas, whose raw, red-dirt sound draws inspiration from modern trailblazers like Tyler Childers and Zach Bryan. He began crafting songs as a kid, often after long days working construction with his father. Staying true to his roots, Waylon recorded and produced his debut EP Til The Sun Goes Down in his parents’ rec room-a release that has since amassed over 225 million streams and earned gold certification from “Arkansas Diamond.” Praised for his fresh take on Americana, Waylon has quickly become one of country music’s top emerging voices. His debut headlining tour sold out across the U.S., Europe, and Canada, and he recently followed up with the critically acclaimed sophomore EP Out Of The Blue, earning a 9.1 rating from Country Central. In 2025, Waylon will embark on his biggest tour yet, headlining major venues across the U.S. and appearing alongside Zach Bryan at Hyde Park and Turnpike Troubadours at Red Rocks.

Victoria Crosby – Artist Bio for ‘Red Dome Dust’

Fresh off the release of her debut single North of the Range, Far North Queensland
singer-songwriter Victoria Crosby returns with Red Dome Dust – a foot-stomping tribute to mining towns, childhood memories, and her old man’s hard yakka. A true bush balladeer with a voice full of grit and heart, Victoria blends classic country with honest storytelling shaped by life in the outback. When she’s not running her community café The Hungry Pug, she’s writing songs about small towns, red dirt roads, and the people who live there. With a string of singles rolling out in 2025 and her debut album North of the Range on the horizon, Victoria is carving out a space in Australian country music – one dust-covered tale at a time.

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.

GOLDEN GUITAR NOMINEE ABBIE FERRIS RELEASES MORGAN EVANS CO-WRITTEN SINGLE ‘ON MY WAY’. NEW EP ‘STOCKMAN’S DAUGHTER’ OUT SEP 19

Golden Guitar nominated singer-songwriter and rising country star Abbie Ferris has released her anthemic new single ‘ On My Way’. Co-written in Nashville with ARIA-winning country superstar Morgan Evans and Jeremy Dylan, the song is an infectious love letter to chasing your dreams.

“This song is my story, from growing up riding horses in a town of 600 people to playing my music on stage in Nashville” says Abbie. “As we were writing it, Morgan kept encouraging me to put more details in the lyrics about my own life, my family and what really drives me, and I’m so excited to put myself into a song like this that will hopefully inspire other dreamers out there”.

Propelled by legendary Nashville drummer Chris McHugh (Keith Urban, Carrie Underwood) and produced by longtime collaborator Michael Carpenter, the song is the follow up to Abbie’s raunchy hit ‘Bad for Business’. Both tracks will be featured on Abbie’s new EP ‘Stockman’s Daughter’, set for release on September 19.

It’s been a massive year for the South Australian native. A long way from Mallala, Abbie has spent the last eight months on the world’s biggest country music stages, from CMC Rocks to CMA Fest, touring with Kingswood and Travis Collins and winning fans around the world. In the weeks to come, she’ll hit festivals across Australia from Sunset Bash to Under the Gums to Savannah in the Round to Groundwater Festival, and things don’t look to slow down anytime soon.

ELYSE SAUNDERS DEBUTS “HEARTBREAK RODEO” AMIDST A CAREER-DEFINING SUMMER

WITH OVER 5 MILLION STREAMS AND FRESH CMA ONTARIO WINS, SAUNDERS UNLEASHES HER FEARLESS NEW SINGLE WHILE HITTING MAJOR FESTIVALS WITH BRETT YOUNG, BRETT KISSEL, KAMERON MARLOWE, BRYAN MARTIN, JAKE WORTHINGTON, AND JADE EAGLESON. “HEARTBREAK RODEO” IS QUICKLY CLIMBING CANADA’S TOP OF THE COUNTRY ON SIRIUSXM, NOW AT #3.

Country artist Elyse Saunders returns with “Heartbreak Rodeo,” a bold anthem inspired by her journey through love’s highs and lows-holding on when times get tough and riding through the hard moments together-showcasing her powerhouse vocals and sharp songwriting.

Quickly climbing Canada’s Top of the Country on SiriusXM, “Heartbreak Rodeo” is charting at #3 this August beside Jess Moskaluke and Dallas Smith. As part of its release to Australian radio, the official music video will also premiere worldwide, available on VEVO, Vimeo, Apple, and more.

Co-written in Nashville with Gold-certified songwriter Chris Buck and Danick Dupelle of the ACM Award-winning band Emerson Drive, the track nods to trailblazers like Dasha, Shaboozey, and High Valley, pairing punchy rhythms with emotionally charged lyrics that reflect Saunders’ authenticity and fire.

With nearly half a million streams and major TikTok buzz, the single fuels a milestone summer for Saunders, who joins Brett Young, Kameron Marlowe, Bryan Martin, Jake Worthington, Brett Kissel, Tebey, Jason Blaine, and Jade Eagleson on festival stages across Canada. She’s also showing a more intimate side with acoustic performances, capped by a full-band showcase at Nashville’s iconic Whiskey Jam.

“As a high school sweetheart in a long-term relationship, I know what it’s like to ride through the highs and lows and keep growing together. Life isn’t perfect – there will always be good and bad days – but you can get through anything if both people are willing to put in the work. I wanted this song to be a reminder that love takes effort, but when you’re truly in it together, it’s always worth the ride.”

ABOUT ELYSE SAUNDERS:
Rising country star Elyse Saunders is the 2024 CMAOntario Female Artist of the Year and a multi-award-winning artist with nearly 5 million streams. Known for her powerhouse vocals and standout songwriting, she’s made waves with hits like “Never Have I Ever”-a top 30 on Canada’s Country Billboard Charts and #6 on Australia’s National Airplay Charts-and “Dirt,” a top 10 SiriusXM Top of the Country single. Her music videos receive full rotation support on CMT Australia, with spotlight features on CMT Nashville. She’s also been selected as the “face-out” cover photo artist on several editorial playlists across Apple Music, Amazon Music, and Spotify. Splitting her time between Nashville and Canada, she’s built a reputation for electrifying performances at major festivals like Boots & Hearts and Sunfest, sharing stages with icons like Thomas Rhett and Jason Aldean. Heartbreak Rodeo marks the next chapter of her fearless cross-border sound, built to resonate with audiences.