ZFM Country

‘The Bush Takes Care Of Its Own’ is a heartfelt Australiana ballad written and recorded by Golden Guitar winning singer songwriter, Matt Scullion.

The track is the second single from Matt’s chart topping album ‘Nation Of Abbreviation’, which was produced by Matt at his recording studio in the Northern Tablelands of NSW. It was written on the Ukulele which features prominently throughout the song.

‘The Bush Takes Care Of Its Own’ captures not only the resilience of hardworking people in the bush, but the feeling of community spirit that is still alive and kicking in rural Australia.

People around here keep to themselves
They’d rather be left alone
But when there’s a problem, they’re happy to help
Cause The Bush Takes Care Of Its Own

With three successful albums under his belt, and 26 number one songs to his credit, Golden Guitar winning Australiana singer songwriter Matt Scullion has plenty to sing about.

Matt’s songs are a mix of witty old school storytelling and tongue in cheek Aussie humour as he sings up all things Australian. His lively yet intimate shows tug on your green and gold heartstrings as he swaps between acoustic guitars, banjo, and ukulele.

Matt’s tours regularly and can often be heard on Australian radio, while his songs have been recorded by the likes of Lee Kernaghan, Travis Collins, Sara Storer and Cold Chisel.

GRAMMY-winning duo Brothers Osborne release Brothers Osborne, their self-titled fourth studio album via EMI Records Nashville. The album was named one of the most anticipated albums of the year by the Los Angeles Times who call it “a lively self-titled” album which adds “fresh sounds and textures to the Osbornes’ solidly built songs.” The duo is currently on the cover of American Songwriter who say a “sense of comfortable confidence echoes through all eleven tracks on Brothers Osborne, which builds off the duo’s trademark meld of classic Southern rock and polished modern country.” Brothers Osborne is available in all formats here.

Last week, Brothers Osborne, the reigning CMA Vocal Duo of the Year, were nominated again in this category. They are five-time winners of this award and have six CMA awards in total. John Osborne of the band was additionally nominated in the Album of the Year category for his work as producer on Ashley McBryde Presents: Lindeville.

For their self-titled release, the brothers enlisted Mike Elizondo (Sheryl Crow, Turnstile, Dr. Dre, Twenty One Pilots, Lin-Manuel Miranda) to produce, entrusting him with curating his own band of studio musicians, including Paul McCartney’s drummer Abe Laboriel Jr. behind the kit. Miranda Lambert provides the LP’s sole guest vocals on “We Ain’t Good At Breaking Up,” after co-writing the song with Brothers Osborne and Jesse Frasure.

The brothers co-wrote every song on the album, including their chart-climbing current single “Nobody’s Nobody,” penned with Elizondo and Kendell Marvel, capturing a message of inclusion and acceptance.

Brothers Osborne are one of music’s most consistently adventurous bands, a duo connected by not just blood, but also a lifetime of performing together, and a shared working-class upbringing in Deale, Maryland. The reigning CMA and ACM Duo of the Year winners are leaders of a progressive and still classic school of country music, and the faces of the new generation of Nashville. Anchored by TJ’s baritone and John’s guitar, every one of the album’s 11 tracks are distinctly Brothers Osborne songs – the album is also their most musically diverse yet, along with a new producer’s direction, it features synthesizers, and a piano ballad.

“We are always pushing ourselves, always evolving and not afraid to change,” John says. “But at the end of the day, we are also who we are.”

“This is a defining record at this point in our career, where we needed to put it all on our shoulders,” TJ says. “And we did. Like it was when we were growing up, it’s just John and me.”

Brothers Osborne Track Listing:

1. “Who Says You Can’t Have Everything” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Casey Beathard)
2. “Nobody’s Nobody” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Mike Elizondo, Kendell Marvel )
3. “Might As Well Be Me” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Corey Crowder, Julian Bunetta)
4. “Sun Ain’t Even Gone Down Yet” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Corey Crowder)
5. “Goodbye’s Kickin’ In” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Lee Miller, Mike Elizondo)
6. “Love You Too” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Jessie Jo Dillon, Jesse Frasure)
7. “New Bad Habit” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Lee Miller)
8. “We Ain’t Good At Breaking Up” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Jesse Frasure, Miranda Lambert)
9. “Back Home” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Lee Miller)
10. “Ain’t Nobody Got Time For That” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Jaren Johnston, Lee Miller)
11. “Rollercoaster (Forever And A Day)” (John Osborne, TJ Osborne, Jamie Hartman)

ABOUT BROTHERS OSBORNE:

Brothers Osborne are one of music’s most consistently adventurous bands, a duo connected by not just blood, but also a lifetime of performing together, and a shared working-class upbringing in Deale, Maryland. The reigning CMA and ACM Duo of the Year winners, John and TJ Osborne are leaders of a progressive and still classic school of country music, and the faces of the new generation of Nashville.

The siblings took home their first GRAMMY in 2022, winning Best Country Duo/Group Performance for their song “Younger Me,” inspired by TJ’s recent coming out. The song is featured on the deluxe version of their GRAMMY-nominated album, Skeletons. The band has been nominated for 10 GRAMMYs in total, standing as five-time CMA Vocal Duo of the Year, and are four-time ACM Duo of the Year. Overall, they have collected six CMA awards, seven ACM trophies and received the ASCAP Vanguard Award in 2019. Their critically acclaimed hit songs have tallied multiple RIAA Gold and Platinum certifications, while surpassing more than 2.8 Billion global streams.

Previously sharing the bill with Chris Stapleton, Eric Church, Little Big Town and Miranda Lambert, Brothers Osborne’s latest headlining We’re Not For Everyone Tour hit more than 50 markets. Last fall, John Osborne produced Ashley McBryde Presents: Lindeville, and Brothers Osborne contributed the song “Play Ball.” They wrapped 2022 with a limited-edition collaboration with WhistlePig Whiskey, launching the WhistlePig PiggyBack Legends Series: Brothers Osborne Barrel. Their fourth studio album, Brothers Osborne, released September 15th (EMI Records Nashville), featuring the chart-climbing single “Nobody’s Nobody,” out now.

A force-of-nature talent with the passion to match, emerging country singer-songwriter Finnian Johnson has a deep love for country music. Over the past few years, he has been honing his craft and building a solid reputation performing at shows and festivals, combined with national television exposure on Season 11 of the popular television series The Voice Australia, where he made the Top 12.

Winning hearts and fans across the country with his deep and dulcet tone, it now seems fitting for Finnian to release his own original music, a self-penned soulful pop-country track called ‘Dishonest’.

“I wrote this this about a year ago, sitting in bed with my guitar trying to write anything. In country style, I pulled inspiration from the struggles of moving on after a breakup. What started out as just my voice and guitar, has turned into this awesome sound with Nashville pedal steel and soft acoustic guitar. I’m beyond excited to announce my first original single! It’s been a long time coming and I hope you love it as much as I do!”

Finnian has performed at Tamworth Country Music Festival and Gympie Music Muster, singing alongside country music legends such as Troy Casser-Daley, Bill Chambers and Troy Kemp. Earlier this year, he toured with Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley on their ‘Country Music, You and Beer Tour’ along the East Coast of Australia from January to May. Finnian went on to release his debut single ‘July’ receiving over 250,000 streams to date.

2023 has given Finnian continued exposure as a Top 10 Finalist in Toyota Star Maker at Tamworth Country Music Festival and was recently announced as a Finalist in the 2023 NAB Talent Search at the Gympie Music Muster.

Watch this space as Finnian Johnson embarks on a new journey of releasing his own music. His star is bound to shine bright and Australian audience are ready to embrace this exciting new talent.

Finnian Johnson’s new single ‘Dishonest’ is out at radio on Tuesday 19th September and all digital services on Friday 22nd September.

Mixing nostalgia and passion of young love into a blast of upbeat Country Rock, the Josh Thompson, Thomas Rhett, and Zach Crowell penned track is tailor-made for his exhilarating live shows. Also produced by Crowell, the ringing guitars and classic dobro meet a pounding pulse as the heartbeat to Lynch’s bursting vocal, full of energy and ready to move fans by the tens of thousands. Likewise, the Chris Hickey directed music video shows the supernova in his element, surrounded by festivalgoers from Country Jam USA 2022 as the life of the party – like he’s done for 10 years straight. Whether connecting before the concert, thrilling a crowd onstage, or creating the soundtrack to a starry-eyed couple’s love story, the proven entertainer has never been more magnetic or more in tune with the moments that define forever-kind of memories.

“Literally, I was at the lake when I heard it the first time. I was in a great headspace; the day was beautiful. All of my friends were, ‘Play that again’ which is a good sign. It doesn’t have to be one girl, but just that feeling coming over you.” – Dustin Lynch.

First heard on his fifth studio album “Blue in The Sky”, which delivered the history-making PLATINUM, six-week #1 collaboration “Thinking ‘Bout You (feat. MacKenzie Porter)” and hit single “Party Mode”, Lynch is taking these smashes and more to the stage. “Stars Like Confetti” was featured in E! News’ The MixtapE! and Entertainment Tonight’s New Music Releases lists was praised as a “feel-good song” by All-Access.

“You can’t help but smile. This good-time banger captures being dizzy in love so marvellously. Get up and bop around the room or turn it up on the open road.” – MusicRow.

ABOUT DUSTIN LYNCH:

Dustin Lynch has “built one of the most consistent recording careers in modern country music” (Billboard), achieving eight #1’s, four Top 5 albums, 10 GOLD and PLATINUM certified singles, and tallying over 4.04 BILLION global on-demand streams. Lynch’s fifth studio album, “Blue in The Sky” (Broken Bow Records), feature current-single “Stars Like Confetti”, in addition to the history-making PLATINUM, six-week #1 “Thinking ‘Bout You (feat MacKenzie Porter)”, and latest hit “Party Mode”.

“Dustin Lynch’s new music will have you embracing the party 24/7”, hails E! News, as the good tine follow up to TULLAHOMA – which delivered consecutive PLATINUM chart-toppers “Ridin’ Roads” and “Good Girl”, in addition to GOLD, Top 5 “Momma’s House”. Since his PLATINUM breakout “Cowboys and Angels” in 2012, Lynch’s headlined packed venues and toured with country’s biggest names like Luke Bryan, Florida Georgia Line, Brad Paisley, and Kane Brown this spring. Likewise, the Tennessee native has earned industry recognition as a Grand Ole Opry member, as well as high-profile nominations for the American Music Awards, Billboard Music Awards, iHeartRadio Music Awards, and CMT Music Awards.

A luminary in the world of music, Andrew Farriss has dedicated over four decades to writing, producing, and performing songs that have left indelible marks on audiences worldwide. Known for his integral role as the co-founder and key songwriter for INXS, his solo career has been just as impactful. His self-titled solo album released in 2021 gained acclaim and spawned hits like “Come Midnight” and “Good Momma Bad”.

2023 is an exhilarating year for Andrew, as he participated in Don McLean’s nationwide Australian tour, served as a featured showcase artist at SXSW in Austin, Texas, and sat on the Eurovision Australian judge’s panel. These achievements come on the heels of a Golden Guitar nomination in 2022 and a Top-40 Billboard Indicator chart hit “You Are My Rock”.

Now, Andrew is gearing up for the release of his new single, “Someone For Everyone”, which is set to premiere on radio on September 18, 2023, and will be available on all streaming platforms by September 22. This poignant ballad explores themes of love and companionship, affirming that there is someone out there for everyone.

In less than eighteen months since the release of her debut single, Sara Berki has established herself as one of the most exciting and prolific new artists in Australian country music and she continues the momentum with her fiery new single, “Favour”. The self-penned track, her eighth track release overall, follows the success of previous single, “A Boy That’s Into Trucks”, which reached #3 on the CountryTown Hot50 Airplay chart (Australia’s official country airplay chart).

Sara also today announces her headline Tamworth Country Music Festival show, taking place at the Tamworth Hotel on Sunday 21st January, 3.30pm. Sara will make a triumphant return to the Tamworth Hotel following her sold-out show at the 2023 festival.

“Favour” is a U-turn for Sara, a bold and empowering song about being cheated on but ultimately being stronger for the experience. The track features the most electric production of Sara’s releases to date.

Sara commented, “Favour is a song written from a past experience of being cheated on. I was hurting and even though my friends would tell me that I was so much better off, I just couldn’t see it at the time. There are so many things you can do to try and get over someone, but the best feeling is reaching the point when you realise that you’ve healed and that they’ve ultimately done you a favour.”

“Production wise, I wanted to do something different to anything I’ve released before.” Sara continued. “It’s heavy and I really think it’s a surprising choice of production, which I was so keen to tap into. Inspirations have come from my rock and roll upbringing. It’s super dynamic, the bass and drums are punchy, and I love that there’s fiddle and banjo following the riff. This is a fun song to play live!”

The Bundaberg born, Southern Highlands raised singer-songwriter made an impressive debut in 2022 with her first three singles, “Fallin’ Off the Heartline”, “Good Enough” and “Drinking for Free” reaching the Top 20 of the CountryTown Hot 50 airplay chart, while “A Boy That’s Into Trucks”

became Sara’s highest charting single so far, at #3. Sara released her debut EP, “Heartline” in January and her catalogue has achieved over 1.6 million total streams to date.

Sara has enjoyed a great run of live shows throughout 2023 and will top it off with appearances at Groundwater Country Music Festival at the Gold Coast in October and the inaugural Ridin’ Hearts Festival at Sydney and Melbourne in November and headlined by U.S star, Bailey Zimmerman. Sara is the only Australian female artist on the massive Ridin’ Hearts line-up

Country singer-songwriter Peter Chapman returns with a new offering after releasing ‘That Kinda Bar’ earlier this year. Known for his quick wit and tongue in cheek humour, ‘Pick You Up’, again showcases Chapman’s fun personality.

“‘Pick You Up’ is a song written about a time in my life that I was working in a bar and one of the many situations I found myself in while working in that type of environment”.

Raised on music legends such as Creedence Clearwater Revival, Bryan Adams, Cold Chisel and Lee Kernaghan, Peter Chapman is a Brisbane-based Country Music artist who likes to tell stories and has a damn good time in the process.

He has toured Western Queensland on three occasions where he swam with crocs in Adels Grove, performed from the bar top in Quilpie, performed at the iconic Birdsville Races and the Birdsville Pub and even laced up the gloves for a few rounds in the World-Famous Fred Brophey Boxing Tent.

In 2022, Chappo (as he’s affectionally called) toured with Golden Guitar winning Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley for 21 shows in NSW and Queensland, as well as opening for legendary band Dragon.

Touring continued into 2023, with performances at Tamworth Country Music Festival, Stock Route Country Music Festival and further touring with Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley on their Queensland leg of their tour. Chappo then jumped on Busby Marou’s ‘Tiny Towns Tour’ for a month of shows through regional Queensland including outback towns. With upcoming shows and festivals in Texas, QLD, Newcastle, Armidale, and Ballina just around the corner, Peter Chapman is looking forward to being back on the road and performing ‘Pick You Up’ live.

Chappo loves a good time and that’s exactly what he wants to share with his audience every time he walks on stage.

Peter Chapman’s new single ‘Pick You Up’ is out at radio and all digital platforms on Monday 18th September.

Country music newcomer James Keith has unveiled his latest single ‘This Town’ offering listeners a tantalizing glimpse into his formative years on his family vineyard in Orange, NSW.

‘This Town’ is just the kind of upbeat country rock James Keith has become known for. Radiating positivity and nostalgia, James cleverly leads listeners down memory lane in this ode to his hometown. “This dynamic track cleverly sprinkles clues about the town without outright disclosing its name,” he smiles. “Those familiar with Orange will recognize it instantly, while others will enjoy the guessing game.”

The creation of ‘This Town’ was as organic and dynamic as the memories it captures. Taking place at Dotted Eight studios, the single came to life under the watchful eye of producer Craig Honeysett . “When we initially started, without much knowledge of recording and producing, my band and I dove in, recording the entire track in just one day.”

They finalized elements on the fly, creating a piece that is as spontaneous as it is genuine. However, James enlisted the ears of ARIA award winning maestro Matt Fell (Troy Cassar-Daley, Fanny Lumsden), for the final piece of the puzzle. “Skip ahead 8 months, and after interacting with numerous industry experts during the journey, I decided to send the track to Matt Fell for his finishing touches. His expertise has undoubtedly elevated the track to a new level.”

The accompanying music video offers a greater depth to the memories imbued in ‘This Town’, weaving together clips of James and his brothers as they navigated their youth on the family vineyard, Mortimers of Orange. James also manages to showcase some of Orange’s most beloved landmarks.

Fans were treated to a live rendition of ‘This Town’ earlier this year when James Keith and his band supported Jon Stevens during his INXS/Noiseworks tour, as a part of the Corowa concert series. Next he has his sights set on a run of shows in Wagga Wagga.

‘This Town’ is more than music; its an experience – a love letter to the chilly wine country that James Keith calls home. This musical memoir is set to resonate deeply with anyone who cherishes their hometown memories and holds family close to their heart.

Country singer and entertainer Josh Setterfield continues his impressive journey with the release of his newest single ‘Feelin’ Love’, strengthening his position as a prominent figure in the country music landscape. The compelling contemporary country love song is set to ignite the hearts of fans with its highly relatable “boy meets girl romance” theme.

Set against a backdrop of modern country pop melodies, this heartfelt ballad explores the new emotions that surround a man as he finds himself captivated by a brunette girl he has just started seeing. The song beautifully captures the essence of curiosity, vulnerability, and the excitement of new love that could last a lifetime.

The single comes as Josh resumes the “Kinda World Tour,” and his Nashville debut; which sees him take his high energy stage show across the US and Canada; following previous map dots over the UK earlier this year and cementing his status as an unforgettable live act.

Carving out a unique and authentic space within the genre, ‘Feelin’ Love’ complements well known previous singles ‘Life Ain’t So Bad’, ‘Better Off’ and ‘Right About Now’. Already an impressive array of accolades to his name including back to back CMT #1’s, multiple top 20 radio singles over 2.5 million streams on well-known single ‘Right About Now’ and a recent nomination for ‘Best Live Performance’.

From humble beginnings, Josh’s rise in the music industry has been nothing short of extraordinary. Each release has garnered him greater attention as a songwriter and entertainer. His name is spreading far and wide as he continues to light stages up globally to a rapidly growing fan base. The enormity of success to date is a true testament to Josh – his unwavering commitment, passion and ability to connect as an artist makes him one of the most promising future country stars.

Powerhouse Country Pop Singer-Songwriter Chloe Swannell Releases Debut Single ‘Strange Love’.

There’s a fresh new country pop singer-songwriter on the scene and she’s about to turn heads. Chloe Swannell is a multi-instrumentalist hailing from Oberon in the Central West of NSW. Her debut single ‘Strange Love’ is an upbeat country pop track produced by Tarquin Halls-Corbett featuring Chloe’s impressive vocals and tells the story of a love/hate relationship with an ex.

“I think we have all been through a “Strange Love” situation. When I first heard this track, I fell in love with the lyrics and felt it was a song a lot of people could relate to. I know I certainly can! ‘Strange Love’ is a country/pop anthem for anyone who has found themselves in the impossible situation of simultaneously hating and yet still being madly in love with their ex. That is a truly strange kind of love”.

Chloe’s passion for music extends beyond her own career as the founder of a well-known music studio in the Central West. No stranger to the stage, she has shared the spotlight with artists such as Beccy Cole and Amber Lawrence, as well as performing at the Australian War Memorial, Government House, and The Sydney Opera House. Chloe will be making her debut appearance at the Tamworth Country Music Festival 2024 performing at a variety of venues across the week.

Chloe Swannell’s new single ‘Strange Love’ is out at radio and all digital platforms on Friday 15th September.

‘Love Is Friendship, Set To Music’ – Jackson Pollock.

‘Clear, Like A Bell’ is the feature track from the brand new album ‘Ghosts’ by Jeremy Edwards. The song sees him teaming up with his dear friends Felicity Urquhart, Kevin Bennett and Josh Cunningham (The Waifs) in a gorgeously sweet melancholic tale of love and learning on the road to redemption.

Written by Edwards for The Song Club after a weekly prompt by Nashville based songwriter and musician, Sam Hawksley, Edwards states, “Sam’s prompt for the week was ‘Queen of hearts’ … we all rolled our eyes and then got on with it. That put me on this 70’s Dylan-esque train of thought and before I knew it, within a few hours, the song was finished”. The Golden Guitar winners and close friends of Edwards then were roped in after the Bennett idea of the verses being split into the two protagonists and an observer. The narrator, singing to the two, to all of us perhaps …

To let love in the door you’d better have your house ready
To let love in the door, you’d better have your house clean

Good advice indeed. Pair this with Josh Cunningham’s trademark beautifully cascading acoustic guitar and gorgeous gentle accompaniment and production by Josh Schuberth; ‘Clear, Like A Bell’ rings sweet and true, just like the music on Jeremy Edwards’ fourth album release ‘Ghosts’.

Like many songwriters, the recent ‘world gone mad years’ gave producer, singer-songwriter, guitarist Jeremy Edwards, a chance to slow down on the shows, and focus on the prose.

“2021-22 was a prolific time for me regarding writing and collaboration. Being able to create through this period was such a gift and was often with dear friends who I admire greatly, friends with who I’ve shared much joy and sadness in the last years”.

These collaborations became a critical part of Edwards’ new record ‘Ghosts’. Three of the album’s songs were penned with long-time friend and irrepressible leader of The Flood, Kevin Bennett (KB), a band Edwards has been a permanent member of since 2019.

The songs with Bennett; ‘Gomeroi’, ’18’ and ‘Nothin’ But The Blues’, stand tall. ‘Gomeroi’ drips of menace and heeds the dangers for a First Nations boy trapped in a doomed relationship with a girl in a small regional town. The story could be set in 1950’s, or modern-day Australia – a fact which adds an extra layer of poignancy. Edwards says, “to speak or write about deeply complex, subtle or overt racism regarding First Nations people in Australia feels so complex at times. Placing a love story around that complexity made it easier for me somehow”.

’18’ was a first for both writers – a melody and progression sent to Bennett on a whim, who came back with the lyrics, a moving ode to adolescent anxieties and the road ahead. “KB had seen me go through some ups and downs as a dad of a fiery daughter … he’d been there too. Problem was when I tracked the vocal for the song, I could barely get through the bloody thing without crying!”

‘Nothin’ But The Blues’ became a reality after the confronting experience of a very public ‘live co-write’ as song writing mentors. As members of an annual song writing mentoring event with Shane Nicholson, Luke O’Shea, Felicity Urquhart, Jen Mize and others, two of the mentors have to write a song from scratch in front of their peers and up to thirty other writers live. “Possibly the most terrifying thing in the world for a lot of people”, Edwards laughs. “Well, we got a bloody good song out of that I reckon!”.

The ‘tune in, drop out’ Black Crowes vibes of ‘Edge Of The World’ (featuring singer and Rough N’ Tumble band mate Jen Mize) and the Trumpian dystopia blues ‘Good Morning America’ highlight the album’s production by multi-instrumentalist Josh Schuberth; at times beautifully lush and subtle, and at other times wrapping snug and tight around Edward’s more visceral roots-based incursions. Schuberth can be found playing on most records made by comrades Matt Fell and Shane Nicholson and was introduced to Edwards through the crew’s mutual brother in arms lost to suicide, Glen Hannah.

Hannah and Edwards had planned to make Edwards’ new album together after the success of their rock album with the collective Teisco (pronounced Thai-sko) West, (with drummer Steve Fearnley, Nicholson, Fell, Bennett, Lyn Bowtell and regular collaborator with Edwards, Felicity Urquhart).

Title track ‘Ghosts’ features another Golden Guitar winning amigo and Edward’s band leader in The General Waste – Shane Nicholson, who brings a beautifully gentle and Bon Iver-esque touch to the ‘hope after tragedy’ song penned by Edwards for friend Felicity Urquhart.

The album signs off with Edwards and Jen Mize (who also plays cello here) in a song initially penned for Edward’s father, singing …

Maybe it’s people, who you need the most
These last days been good you know
So good for the soul
With people

The lyrics in the song may be singing back to Edwards, reminding him and us of the real deal here, the ties, the shared history, the love that connect people, and connect him.

Brisbane singer songwriter, Sorensen, releases his new single ‘Roar’ on September 15th, 2023.

‘Roar’ is a song written by Sorensen that comes from his deep passion for motorsport.

“I have been a keen follower and lover of motorsport for a long time now. The excitement of these machines being driven to the extreme, in close quarters with each other, is very exhilarating. There is nothing like being at the track on race day”.

‘Roar’ is an up-tempo, catchy country rock song, with a supercharged chorus that will be an anthem for any motorsport fan. The lyrics will resonate with any petrolhead.

There’ll be sparks flying, rubber burning
Doors banging, tempers rising
Can’t wait to hear those engines roar

Sorensen worked closely with Supercars race winning team Matt Stone Racing for the promo of ‘Roar’, with the team using the song as their anthem for their upcoming enduro campaign, culminating in the Bathurst 1000.

New single, a Two Way Street.

The Two Way Street of life is brought to song in Sari Abbott’s new single, out on September 8th.

The Sunshine Coast artist co-wrote Two Way Street with 2022 Toyota Star Maker Max Jackson, while attending The CMAA Academy of Country Music senior course in Tamworth in January this year.

“The whole idea of Two Way Street is to acknowledge that sometimes you need to take the plunge and go it alone especially when relationships come to an end. You’ve just gotta have the courage to do your own thing”.

The singer-songwriter said, as well as being about growing up on her street where she’d lived all her life until recently, the song refers to her taking to the road and sometimes having to leave people behind.

“Two Way Street also holds memories about growing up with my neighbours who I’ve known forever and having fond memories of building tree houses on a spare block of land on our street,” Sari said.

“I’m hoping other people can find inspiration from the song because it’s very relatable with most people having a treehouse, growing up with awesome neighbours, and there comes a time when you leave the nest”.

“My song deals with that idea that it’s okay to be nervous about exploring new places and meeting new people, and when you leave some people behind in your life, you’re not cutting them out forever you’re just going on a journey for a little while. I want to inspire people to do what they want in life while their young and don’t hold back. I’m looking forward to hitting the open road and exploring my country while I’m young.”

Catch Sari at the Gympie Music Muster from August 24 performing her new single and her many other originals.

Sari hits the road in October in her beloved Toyota Troopy named Bob, heading from Queensland to Victoria for Christmas before heading across the Nullabor with friends to continue on her music journey.

Brendan McMahon Recalls His Childhood Memories With ‘Send In The Clowns’.

Growing up in a small country town is fantastic. Most of the time you can make your own fun and adventures, but every now and then something incredibly exciting would happened … the circus would come to town!

When you listen to Brendan McMahon’s music, you gain a strong sense of the man behind the songs. An inveterate traveller and astute observer, possessed of an enquiring and open mind – these are just some of his personality traits that shine through.

McMahon is a multi-award-winning singer-songwriter with over twenty years’ experience. Not afraid to defy expectation, his music is eclectic, adventurous, and blessed with a ‘limitless fluidity’. Having visited over fifty unique and varied countries, his travel experiences, specifically his observations of history, cultures, people, architecture, and nature, are at the root of his creativity and song writing.

Brendan grew up in the small town of Kapunda near South Australia’s Barossa Valley. He discovered his love of music at the tender age of 15 after being “awed and floored” seeing Jimi Hendrix play on television; amazed by the sounds that Jimi could pull from a guitar and captivated by the iconic performer’s showmanship. Borrowing money from his mother (and paying it back at $2 a week) he promptly bought himself a $60 guitar and amp rig from a mate.

Initially wanting to be a glam-rock superstar in the 80s and 90s (think Van Halen, Kiss, Def Leppard), McMahon later transitioned to the more storytelling driven tunes of songwriters such as Paul Kelly, Harry Manx, Richard Thompson and Garth Brooks, artists that continue to inspire him today.

Spending his late teens and early twenties as a lead singer/lead guitarist in rock cover bands playing across Adelaide and country Victoria, McMahon honed his skills the hard way – in front of demanding Australian pub and club crowds. In 1998, and now bitten by both the song writing and performance bug, McMahon released a 7-track EP called ‘Picture This’ with his band The Cunning Stunts.

In 2015 and 2016, Brendan released the solo albums ‘Falling To Earth’ and ‘Marker 7-58′ under the moniker of Satellite Gods, and in doing so was fortunate enough to collaborate and work with some renowned Australian musicians including Peter Maslen (Boom Crash Opera), Jason Vorherr (Darryl Braithwaite), Bob Spencer (The Angels), Simon Hosford (Vanessa Amorosi) and Wilbur Wilde (Ol’ 55).

After supporting artists such as Boom Crash Opera, Russell Morris, Wendy Stapleton and The Chantoozies in Australia, Brendan released the LP ‘On This Fine Occasion’ in 2017, which received great reviews both locally and internationally.

In 2019, McMahon, who now calls Melbourne home, released ‘In The Moment’ – his 4th solo album. Maturity, reflection and drawing on his personal experiences, his inspired yet refined lyrics again take listeners on a captivating journey.

Recorded with Steve Vertigan at Soggy Dog Recording Studios, and again drawing upon Australian music royalty in its creation – namely Dave Leslie (Baby Animals), Danny Spencer (Jimmy Barnes Band), Brett Kingman (James Reyne Band), and Peter Maslen and Jason Vorherr, plus a string trio from the Melbourne Symphony Orchestra (Sarah Curro, Gabi Halloran and Paul Zabrowarny), this powerful album embraces the essence of story-telling and leaves you thinking about the songs long after the last track finishes.

2020 seen the release of ‘No Rush Today’, an album that debuted at No. 2 on the iTunes country music chart on release. McMahon feels his 5th solo offering cemented him in the Country Rock space. The album delivered 3 top 10 AMRAP singles, ‘Jack’, ‘Sugar Cane Man’ and ‘Wired To The Moon’ along with strong charting on many other Australian charts including a No.4 position in France with ‘Sugar Cane Man’.

June, 2022, marked the release of ‘As The Road Unfolds’, the most successful record to date. It debuted as the highest selling Australian album on the iTunes Country chart and has also delivered no less than six chart topping singles – ‘Jenni J’, ‘When I See You Tonight’, ‘I Feel A Change’, ‘Skin & Bone’, ‘Gundry’s Track’ and ‘Back Roads’.

Where to from here? With three chart topping tracks from his highly anticipated 7th solo album already released, ‘New Country Morning’, ‘Time Rolls On’, and ‘It’s Good To Be Alive’, and the powerful and poignant ‘I Hear Your Voice (The Soldier)’ featuring the very talented Montana Sharp, it’s full steam ahead for the remainder of 2023.

Mackenzie Carpenter is channelling her inner Cyndi Lauper with the release of “Country Girls (Just Wanna Have Fun)” available now via The Valory Music Co. Almost 40 years to the day since its release (September 6th in 1983), Carpenter has reimagined the lyrics and added a fresh Country spin to the iconic ’80s anthem. True to the young songwriter’s style, the new version aims to sprinkle just enough cleverality and amusement to create a fun tune that can be cranked up and danced to.

“I showed up to a write one day saying I wanted to write the country version of ‘Girls Just Wanna Have Fun’ and next thing you know we started ad-libbing and ended up re-writing the ’80s classic…but with a whole lot of country flair,” shared Carpenter. “It all came together in a really fun, colorful way and I hope people feel like they can crank it up and have some fun-the boys too!”

Paying homage to the harmless rebellion in the original tune, “Country Girls (Just Wanna Have Fun)” brings everything a fun night out honky tonking could need, neon lights, whiskey, a cowboy, and of course, the girls. “Want a cowboy to take my hand and boot scoot and two-step me to a cover band,” sings Carpenter. “I’ll whiskey wink, he’ll think that he stands a chance, and kiss him just because country girls just wanna have fun.”

Despite the ability to write a vulnerable heartbreaker like “Jesus I’m Jealous,” Carpenter’s knack for cheeky lyrics accompanied by a healthy dose of sass shines bright across her self-titled debut EP in tracks like the TikTok-viral, “Huntin’ Season,” and her advisory “Don’t Mess With Exes.” This next release is no exception and is meant to be a soundtrack to going out and having a blast with friends.

Fueled by an upbringing consisting of a rowdy support system, back porch hootenannies and juicy drama that feeds any plot, the affable and kind Carpenter continues to embrace the crazy and “tacky” aspects that make life a little more fun. Since signing her record deal with The Valory Music Co. last year, Mackenzie is recognized in Country music as an artist to watch, being included in several spotlight programs including the CMT Next Women of Country class of 2023 and Nashville Briefing’s Artists To Watch 2023. This summer, she took the stage at major events like CMA Fest, Country Thunder, Tortuga Music Festival, Stagecoach and also made her Grand Ole Opry debut June 20th

Canadian Country Trio Petric Join Up With Powerhouse Vocalist Christie Lamb To Release ‘Single Problem’ And Get Set To Tour Australia.

Multi award-winning Canadian act Petric are gearing up to bring their special blend of Canadian pop country to Australian audiences. To celebrate in the lead up to their first Australian tour, the three-piece outfit is set to release ‘Single Problem’, a catchy country pop track which features Australia’s powerhouse vocalist, Golden Guitar and CMC Award winner, Christie Lamb.

“‘Single Problem’ has always had a special place in our hearts. It was one of our biggest charting hits in Canada, a couple of years ago. Having the opportunity to take a fresh approach to the song and collaborate with Christie has felt really great. Her voice is beautiful, and we love the way this track has turned out.” Jason Petric

The Manitoba based act have released a succession of successful singles in Australia including ‘Déjà Vu, ‘KIDS’, “White Lyin’, ‘Night Up’, ‘Beach Please’ and the Australian Top 23 chart-topping single ‘Flirtin’ . (with Hayley Jensen). They are excited for their upcoming Australian tour which will see them performing their catchy hook-driven tracks to Australian fans. With shows in Brisbane and Sydney, Petric then board the 7-night Royal Caribbean Country Music Cruise, Cruisin’ Country which features Australian Country Music heavyweights such as The Wolfe Brothers, James Johnston, Casey Barnes, Beccy Cole, Adam Eckersley and Brooke McClymont, McAlister Kemp, Amber Lawrence, Hayley Jensen and Australian born, Canadian raised Gord Bamford and more.

Meanwhile Australia’s very own Christie Lamb is excited to be collaborating with Petric on this single.

“I am so excited for you all to hear my brand new single ‘Single Problem’. I loved working on this track with the guys from Petric. It’s such a cute, fun, and fresh track about how good it feels when you find the one.” Christie Lamb.

The vibrant multi-instrumental award-winning singer has performed at high profile and iconic events such as CMC Rocks, Gympie Music Muster, The Big Red Bash, Groundwater Country Music Festival, NQ’s Rockin’ Country, Savannah in the Round, Cruisin’ Country, Country Rocks Festival and more and is known as one of Australia’s leading female country music entertainers.

Passion, and persistence, combined with raw talent and high expectations, has been the formula for success for Petric. The band have accumulated over 15 million worldwide online streams, 10 charting singles, and 3 Top 20 hits. Petric’s latest album ‘Flashbacks’ alone has accumulated 3 million online streams and has opened doors to multiple international markets including Australia.

Petric and Christie Lamb’s new single ‘Simple Problem’ is out at radio on Monday 4th September and all digital services on Friday 8th September.

Jake Whittaker shows a different side to his music with his new single, ‘Later’.

Written with best mate and producer, Jared Adlam, ‘Later’ was inspired by how the two friends met their respective partners.

“The first verse is about how I met my fiancée, as we sat out under the stars and chatted on the concrete water tank at the back of the property,” Jake said.

“‘Later’ was the first word we came up with for the song, then pulled the inspiration from that. We wanted a song with some depth to show that there’s more to me than just the mullet, moustache, and party song.”

Following on from singles, ‘Round Here’ and ‘Drink To That’, ‘Later’ shows a more lyrical and storytelling side to Jake’s music.

The radio-friendly single has also aided in Jake getting ‘brownie points’ with his fiancée, Nicole. “She loves it,” he said.

As with the previous singles, Jake wants to keep bringing music to his listeners that they can enjoy, while building his audience.

“The reaction to ‘Round Here’ and ‘Drink To That’ has been pretty spectacular; the country community has welcomed me with open arms,” he said.

“The country scene is full of great people from the fans to the industry people.”

Casey Barnes releases his brand new single, “Never Give Up On A Good Time”, as he prepares to the hit the road for the CITY NIGHTS TOUR in Sydney (Sept 8), Brisbane (Sept 16) & Melbourne (Sept 21). “Never Give Up On A Good Time” is the follow-up to “Boys Like Me” which peaked at #1 on the CountryTown Country Airplay chart; his seventh #1 single in just over two years.

“Never Give Up On A Good Time”, is the third single from a brand-new studio album to be released in early 2024 and was co-written by Casey with Nashville based hit-maker, Eric Paslay (co-writer of hits for Keith Urban, Lady A, Jake Owen and many more). These new tracks follow the huge success of previous studio album “Light It Up” (released February 2022), for which Casey received the 2022 ARIA Award for Best Country Album, 2023 Golden Guitar Awards for Toyota Album of the Year and Top Selling Album of the Year and the 2023 APRA Award for Most Performed Country Work (for God Took His Time On You).

Casey commented on the song, “I’ve been a massive Eric Paslay fan since meeting when we both performed at C2C Festival back in 2019. We finally had the chance to re-connect again in October last year when I was over in Nashville writing for the new album and playing some shows and that’s when we co-wrote this new one ‘Never Give Up On A Good Time’. I’ve always loved his writing and had a feeling we’d come away with really something special. This song’s all about chasing that ultimate night out, good time and bringing your friends along for the ride! It’s also going to be a great song to add into our live set too. Really excited to have this one out there!”

It is going to be a busy end to 2023 for Casey with the CITY NIGHTS TOUR, a massive run of festivals and finishing off his next album. Wherever Casey goes, the good time is sure to follow.

The reigning Female Artist of the Year, Amber Lawrence is back with a brand-new song for release, “Live A Country Song”. After releasing the ARIA and Golden Guitar nominated album “Living for the Highlights” in 2022, Amber is back with a new stand-alone single.

With its familiar Amber Lawrence melodies and soaring vocals, this is an energetic and fresh sound for the singer/songwriter and is definitely a song that will sit well on the festival stages throughout spring and summer this year.

“Live a Country Song” was co-written with Nick and Tom of The Wolfe Brothers, after a discussion about why popular country songs often tread the same well-worn themes and paths. The answer eventually
being addressed in this song – because we love everything about it, we live and breathe it, we write it & we sing about it, and we hope you get to live your very own country song!

The song is already proving to be a fan favourite when performed live, it’s a song that embraces all that we love about the genre, and celebrates it, and with the strong state of country music in Australia right now – what a time to celebrate! Amber is touring far and wide in 2023, and will commence 2024 in Tamworth with her ‘Live a Country Song Tour’.

Country artist Benn Gunn is releasing his new single, ‘Let Their Voice Be Heard’, and urging Australians to vote yes in the upcoming referendum.

“It’s long overdue that we are proud of our indigenous Australians. They’re the longest surviving culture on earth which makes them the greatest survivors in human history.”

Indigenous Australians developed their own society, culture, and strategies that helped them survive and thrive in some of the most hostile environments on earth for over 60,000 years.

But that survival was threatened during colonization. From the late 1700s right up to the 1920s, State Governments in Australia sanctioned the hunting down and killing of Indigenous Australian men, women and children.

If you Google “aboriginal massacres” you’ll find over 270 cases where Indigenous Australians were murdered in large groups, over 140 years of colonization. And those are just the documented cases. Then we had systemic racism, the stolen generation, stolen wages … the list of injustices done to Indigenous Australians goes on and on.

Even their history has been stolen. We know from the early explorers there were yam fields that stretched to the horizon with soil so deeply cultivated you could put your arm in it up to the elbow. There were yam pits dug so deep a man could stand in them and there was real danger a horse might fall into them.

Calling Indigenous Australians hunters and gathers doesn’t even begin to describe the huge diversity of different cultures that were here before colonization, all the way from Islanders who grew their own food, to the desert people who were mostly nomadic.

In 2017, 250 Aboriginal and Islander delegates from all over Australia gathered at Uluru and gifted us with the Uluru Statement, From The Heart, a document that outlines a process to bring all Australians together, and bring pride and self determination to Indigenous Australians.

The first part of that statement is a voice to Parliament … a body of Indigenous Australians elected by their local communities who can consult with the executive of the Australian Government and give them feedback on legislation that affects Indigenous Australians. It doesn’t give them any special powers, just the right to give feedback.

Just a little feedback has the potential to save Australians hundreds of millions of dollars.

Most Indigenous Australians today have family stories of their ancestors being killed or taken away by the Government. Many are still alive today who experienced or witnessed it. Understandably, most have some distrust towards Governments at all levels.

Federal Government spending on Indigenous Australians, including health and other essential services, is currently approximately $4.5 billion dollars a year. That distrust means government programs with excellent intentions can struggle to find wide acceptance among Indigenous People.

With Indigenous Elders giving feedback on programs and policies, their acceptance and their implementation is likely to improve substantially. Even if outcomes on Indigenous spending improved by just 10%, that’s a saving of $450 million dollars a year for our Federal Government.

The second verse of Benn’s song, ‘Let Their Voice Be Heard’, powers into an up-tempo, celebratory mood. He sings “With our generations reconciled the day can finally come, where our whole nation stands with pride, and we all walk as one.”

With the referendum we have an historic chance to recognize Indigenous Australians in our constitution and give them that voice of representatives they elect from their own communities.

“It’s time to come together and make a brand new start.” – Benn Gunn

“This is the song of the summer for that person you’re sweet on” – Ashleigh Dallas

Ashleigh Dallas’ new single, ‘Sweet For You’, sees the multi-award winner get in touch with her romantic side.

Stemming from an afternoon of banjo and fiddle practice, ‘Sweet For You’, celebrates the happy chapter she is in, in her life.

“I wrote this in 2022 and the idea came to me as a fiddle melody that worked with the lyrics,” Ashleigh said.

“I sat on the chorus for a week before I finished it. The theme of the song is about having your head up in the clouds and all the good things in life.”

“It is dedicated to my husband, Chris, but I’m not one to often write a lot of love songs, but I am in a great chapter of life and we’ve got the girls (daughters Harriet and Lillian). This is a song that is really relishing in all of those happy, feelgood vibes.”

‘Sweet For You’ also harks back to ’90’s country with a nostalgic, Cajun feel.

“I’d love my listeners to get a euphoric joy from this song, from the mix of instruments and the whole concept of the song because it’s a song that embraces all the joy and the good things in life,” Ashleigh said.

Ashleigh said she’s no matchmaker, but agreed that this could be the song to send to someone you’re sweet on that you’d like to share the love and joy with.

Launched at the Gympie Music Muster, ‘Sweet for You’ is released on August 25.

“To be heading back to the Gympie Music Muster, where it’s been many years since I’ve played, I’m very excited to be launching this at the festival,” Ashleigh said.

“The Muster is one of our most cherished festivals and, as a young kid wanting to have country music as a career, it was a bucket list festival to play, so it’s humbling to be involved in it and a festival you want to do your best at.

“It means so much as an artist, but it means a lot to the country music lover to be there, too. I feel this is that perfect song for a crowd to engage with and have a dance.”

Ashleigh showcases her musical talents throughout ‘Sweet For You’, featuring on fiddle, acoustic guitar, mandolin, and banjo with electric guitar and other colour instruments played by her dad and producer Brett Dallas. In the engine room of the rhythm section is brother Lindsay Dallas on bass and Adam McCann on drums.

Three-time Grammy® Award-winning country superstar Tim McGraw has released his highly anticipated new album Standing Room Only on August 25, 2023 via Big Machine Records. Standing Room Only features 13 brand-new tracks and was produced by McGraw and his longtime producing partner Byron Gallimore.

The new album marks McGraw’s first new record since 2020’s Here On Earth, which debuted at #1 on the Billboard Country Chart. On Standing Room Only, fans can expect an album full of McGraw’s enduring Country sound, distinguished vocals and meaningful songs.

“As an artist, I always want to dig deeper and get better every time I make a new record – it’s a big part of what drives me, and I really believe this is one of the best projects we’ve made. I’ve been working on this album since 2020, and this collection of songs are some of the most emotional, thought-provoking, and life-affirming music I’ve ever recorded,” McGraw shares.

Throughout his career, McGraw has amassed 68 Top 10s and holds the Mediabase record for the most weeks at #1 with all titles, totalling 73 weeks, and holds the record for second-most #1 albums in the U.S. just behind George Strait.

Acclaimed husband-and-wife duo, Mark and Jay O’Shea (O’Shea), are set to unveil their latest single, ‘Everything Means Nothing,’ on August 25th, 2023. This evocative track promises a rollercoaster of emotions, mirroring their personal life’s unpredictable adventure.

Crafted with lyrics that resound with visceral honesty, the song starts with a candid recounting of a less-than-perfect proposal: “I proposed in Sydney at a fancy restaurant right there on the harbour … But instead of screaming out ‘Yes’, she just managed an ‘Ok, then’,” sings Mark, inviting listeners into the couple’s romantic journey from the opening verse.

‘Everything Means Nothing’ pulls at the heartstrings as it navigates the peaks and troughs of their journey. From “singin’ for our supper in upper Manhattan” to the harsh reality that “you don’t get paid to play music in Music City,” the duo’s experiences, both high and low, underscore a poignant truth: “Everything Means Nothing, without you.”

O’Shea have perfectly captured a universal theme, brilliantly weaving their unique narrative into the shared human experience of love. “Oh the places we will go. And all the things, we didn’t know, we didn’t know” they sing to each other, setting the stage for a love story that’s as exhilarating as it is heartfelt.

Mark and Jay O’Shea continue to stake their claim as world class songwriters and performers winning over crowds from Dubai, UAE to Dalby, QLD, from the Grand Ole Opry to the Sydney Opera House. Their live shows have earned a reputation for being an emotional work-out, and Jay’s iconic vocal’s need to be heard to be believed.

When the couple aren’t adding to the seven Australian Country Music Awards (Golden Guitars) on the mantle, their swag full of number 1 singles and ARIA chart topping albums, they spend their spare time serving as ambassadors for charitable organizations like Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library and HeartKids Australia.

‘Pour Me A Drink’ from The Scott Howarth Band is the latest country hit that’s about to become your new favorite. With it’s catchy melody and relatable lyrics, this song is all about taking a break from the stresses of life and enjoying a little bit of liquid therapy. Wheather you’re sipping on a beer at the local pub or pouring yourself a whiskey at home, ‘Pour Me A Drink’ is the perfect soundtrack to your next happy hour. So grab a cold one and turn up the colume, because this song is about to become your new anthem. Cheer!!

On a canvas painted in the spectacular Flinders Ranges of Outback South Australia, Alison Hams brings you her new radio single and music video, ‘Broken Ground’.

Telling the harsh contradictions of living on the Australian landscape, ‘Broken Ground’ is the second single release from ‘Out Into The Blue’, Alison’s 2023 album project with husband and musical partner Mark Tempany. The duo’s lead single ‘Lullaby’ launched in May to much critical acclaim and chart success.

Alison’s accompanying ‘Broken Ground’ music video has been filmed in stunning cinematic HD on rugged Edeowie Station, 450km north of Adelaide.

Alison Hams and Mark Tempany have written and performed music since they were kids, and they say that innocence is still alive across their decades of experience.

Ali and Mark have performed all over the world, produced twelve albums between them, and achieved nearly everything as proudly independent recording artists.

Having spent the last fifteen years focused on providing mentorship and music resources to young musicians in relatively remote areas of Australia – in 2023 they have returned with a new original album titled ‘Out Into The Blue’ – their first full album together.

The pair say the circuit-breaker that’s led to the new album was, as for so many artists, the Covid pandemic which provided extra time and space to create when the world locked down.

‘Out Into The Blue’ sees Mark and Alison working with some of the finest music talents in the world – they say recording in the age of high speed Internet has allowed International collaboration never possible even ten years ago.

‘Out Into The Blue’ is available now through marktempany.com and alisonhams.com. There’s 13 new songs included and the duo promise there’ll be several singles and music videos to come over the next year or so.

With the promise of so much more to come – Alison and Mark’s ‘Out Into The Blue’ album project continues to surprise and thrill after the pair’s twenty year hiatus from their decades-long original music careers.