ZFM Country

This is either our masterpiece or Exhibit A.They told us not to release this song. They said it would get us cancelled. That was all the encouragement we needed. So here it is… our career suicide note, set to music.Canadian Whiskey is, on paper, a “conventional country drinking song.”  Which is true, if you ignore the sarcasm, the side-eye, and the fact that it was co-written with  Allan Caswell — a self-confessed leftie, boomer, hippie, and professional troublemaker. Totally coincidental. Probably.Before anyone gets dramatic — it’s not anti-American. It’s just aggressively pro everyone else. Canada, Mexico, Ukraine, France, Australia. Hell, if Greenland makes tequila,they’re in too.

The “Wattmore thing” keeps catching fire:
· Circus Life (the debut chaos)
· Romantic Side (#3 on Australian Country Radio)
· I Don’t Miss That Woman (#7 on Australian Country Radio)
All with critics muttering things like:
· “It’s country but not quite. It’s punk but not exactly … it’s Wattmore and that’s the point” – Foxfire
· “Classic country on the surface until the punk undertones punch through” – Miles Coleman
· “A perfect blend of bourbon-soaked Americana vibes and old-school country with a modern edge” – The Other Side Reviews
Translation:  nobody knows what box to put them in, so they just gave them good reviews instead.On  Canadian Whiskey , the Wattmore machine is in full swing:
· Written by Aiden, Kai &  Allan Caswell
· Dragged into existence by  Lindsay Waddington at LWM House Studios — the only man alive who can take Wattmore’s racket, run it through a blender, and somehow hand back a radio single instead of a police report
· Backed by some of Australia’s finest country players (the kind who make it sound easy), plus the boys themselves on guitars that weren’t just played — they were assaulted, interrogated, and dumped in a shallow grave somewhere in the mix

The result?  Brash. Irreverent. Fresh. Smartarse. Basically Wattmore in a glass — neat, no chaser. So pour a glass, lower your standards, and hit play.  Out September 26th, 2025 b ecause every great mistake deserves a soundtrack.Who Are Wattmore?Wattmore are two brothers who communicate almost entirely through guitar solos, sarcasm, and eye rolls sharp enough to cut glass. They’re awkward like suddenly forgetting how pockets work to somehow stumbling into brilliance while looking like they took a wrong turn at common sense.Their songs are loaded with grit, mischief, and emotional sucker punches disguised as choruses. Expect dry humour, zero small talk, and the kind of honesty that makes PR departments break out in hives

OFF THE BACK OF 2 x USA FESTIVAL PERFORMANCES RISING COUNTRY MUSIC STAR TYLA RODRIGUES DROPS HERNEW SINGLE, BY THE TIME IT’S OVER

Fast rising country star, Tyla Rodrigues, has hit the ground running in 2025! A remarkable new talent in Australian country music; Tyla has set herself apart with her soulful voice, heartfelt lyrics and captivating stage presence. With performances at CMA Fest and Americana Fest under her belt, Tyla releases her new single,  By The Time It’s Over: .As Tyla describes the new single, “ By the Time It’s Over: ” is a playful take on that spark when the night, the music, and the chemistry all align. It leans into the fun, flirty and cheeky side of country storytelling. A reminder that sometimes the best connections happen when you just let the night take the lead.”Written By Tyla Rodrigues with Jesse and Jordan Dozzi; the track was produced by Jared Adlam. An artist with her roots deep in traditional country music. Rodrigues, at just 21 years of age,  has quickly become a sought-after performer at some of the most prestigious festivals. In 2026, Tyla Rodrigues is already slated to appear at Tamworth Country Music Festival, CMC Rocks and Howlin’ Country Festival. In 2024, Tyla also released her debut EP, Upon Reflection, which amassed close to 1 million streams. 


CATHERINE BRITT RETURNS WITH FIRST SINGLE FROM NEXT CAREER ALBUM
 
On her brand-new single, ‘One Divorce, Two Kids & A Few Whiskies Ago’, Catherine Britt reminds us why her name is synonymous with country music. 
 
There is an authenticity to her music that is gritty and honest – you can feel she has lived every word and survived to tell the tale.
 
“This song sums up this next chapter for me”, says Catherine. “ It’s raw and honest and comes from a place of rest, resilience and determination. I have lived a full life of adventure, challenges and wonder and this song is where I have ended up after it all”.
 
Having a career that has spanned over 20 years, the award-winning singer-songwriter has constantly allowed listeners into her most real moments through her songs.
 
“What a journey it’s been this life of mine. A fast paced and exciting music career starting in my teens to now, there is just too much to put into a 3-minute song, but I did my best with this one”.
 
“In an industry as cut-throat and fast paced as the music industry, I have spent most of it holding my breath and bracing for what’s next. That can be thrilling yet terrifying at the same time. It has taken me all over the world and taught me every lesson a young woman needs to survive the dark shadows and evil villains of life’s pathways.”
 
Catherine Britt is one of the most successful artists in Australian country music. She is a five-time Golden Guitar Award winner, six-time ARIA Award Best Country Album nominee, signed to RCA in the US at just 17, earned two US Billboard Top 40 Chart singles, toured and worked with everyone from Brooks & Dunn to Alan Jackson to Dolly Parton, is the youngest Australian ever to perform at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville and recorded a duet with Sir Elton John.
 
‘One Divorce, Two Kids & A Few Whiskies Ago’ is the first single lifted from her anticipated nineth studio album, ‘The Hardest Thing’ – the follow up to 2021’s #1 album, ‘Home Truths’. Taking the reins again as producer – this time with husband, Bradley Bergen – she made the conscious choice to record the album at home without too much outside influence.
 
“I am grateful to still be making music and feeling just as excited about sharing it with the world as I did my first single in 1999. Introducing a new and better version of Catherine Britt”.
 
‘One Divorce, Two Kids & A Few Whiskies Ago’ is out Fri 26 September via Red Rebel Music / MGM Distribution.

LEGENDARY COUNTRY ARTIST, BECCY COLE RETURNS WITH HER FIRST NEW SINGLE RELEASE IN 3 YEARS 
Leading female country star, Beccy Cole, returns with a new single “More Cows Than Cowgirls”. Her first new single release in 3 years after the 2022 release of “Faded Star”.As Beccy decribes the new track, ‘More Cows Than Cowgirls’ is a tongue in cheek reflection on the long line of ravaged roadkill laying on the side of the highway of my life! It’s also a lighter look at the struggles that the LGBTQI + has had with acceptance and how things have changed. Most of us have had to hide who we are at some stage and being less than authentic can blur the lines within a relationship as well, one big rollercoaster ride! I’ve been performing this song live at gigs and it’s proving to be a winner, I can definitely see the positive audience reaction and the benefits of using humour to make a poignant statement. As the collection comes together for the new album, there’s definitely an element of break ups and lessons learned, a theme I am greatly familiar with! There’s also massive amounts of hope on the record born from a good few years in regular therapy. Sometimes I wonder if I should be giving songwriting credits to my therapist! Beccy Cole is a powerhouse of Australian country music—a gifted musician and Artist whose heartfelt songwriting, bold humour, and energetic performances have earned her both popular adoration and critical acclaim. Her career spans over three decades, releasing ten (10) studio albums, eleven (11) Golden Guitars (including five for Female Artist of the Year), multiple ARIA Top 10 and gold-certified releases and more than a dozen No. 1 Australian country singles, authorship with her autobiography ‘Poster Girl’ (March 2015), the host of ABC Radio’s Saturday Night Country since 2021, inducted into the country music’s Roll of Renown and awarded the Medal of Order of Australia (OAM) for services to country music both in 2022.  ‘More Cows Than Cowgirls’ is the first single from the long-awaited brand new studio album (yet titled), seven years in the making.

Artist Bio
James Keith is a rising Australian country artist known for his grounded storytelling, relatable lyrics, and gritty-yet-melodic sound. Following the success of his breakout single ‘Chasing Dreams’, which explored the hustle and sacrifice behind chasing big goals, James returns with a powerful follow-up track — ‘Be Real’. Drawing from his own life, James brings a refreshing authenticity to the modern country scene.Track Description
‘Be Real’ is a straight-shooting country rock anthem about staying true to yourself in a world full of fakery and filters. It calls out the shallow stuff—chasing clicks, buying clout, pretending to be something you’re not—and flips it on its head by celebrating the genuine parts of life: being a dad, a son, a mate, and someone who works hard without losing sight of who they are.With a driving beat, singalong ‘whooo-wooha’ hooks, and a message of resilience, this track is both a personal creed and a universal call. It follows the spirit of ‘Chasing Dreams’ and continues James Keith’s journey of keeping it real, no matter the cost.Key Quote from the Artist
“It’s about owning who you are—whether that’s a dad, a son, a mate, or just a bloke trying to do his best. There’s nothing wrong with chasing big things, but if you lose yourself along the way, what’s the point?” – James Keith

BBR MUSIC GROUP/BMG NASHVILLE SIGNS UNDERGROUND PLATINUM RECORDING ARTIST ATLUS.

NEW SINGLE “DEVIL AIN’T DONE” OUT TODAY!

BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville adds Atlus to its roster, an artist that came up through the underground and has now amassed over a billion on-demand streams. Anchored by self-penned viral hits, a platinum single, four independent studio albums, national touring and a fan base that has grown into the millions across social platforms, Atlus’ BBR Music Group/BMG Nashville/Stoney Creek Records debut “Devil Ain’t Done,” is out today.

Over infectious grooves & melodies, the former truck driver’s lyrics in “Devil Ain’t Done” reflect themes of self-doubt & perseverance. Grappling with relatable struggles that so many empathize with, this new track expands on the singer-songwriter’s mission to make music that is both universal and uniquely him.

“I believe that everyone runs into the devil at some point in their life, and sometimes it’s the devil in your mind and sometimes it’s the devil in your hometown. And where I grew up, he drove a nice car, had fast cash in his pockets, pills in the glove box, and he lived in the trailer next door. I spent most of my life avoiding that devil,” explains Atlus. “Life is much better now, but the devil can find his way into any room. I just remind myself to keep being a good person and not give into the temptation.”

Written by Atlus, David Garcia (who also co-produced the release with Andrew Baylis) and Geoff Warburton, “Devil Ain’t Done” marks a new chapter in the groundswell of his career.

“Every time we introduce Atlus to someone new, there is an instant and passionate connection,” says BMG America’s President, Frontline Recordings Jon Loba. “He is a true poet, who powerfully and intimately chronicles the very real struggles and tragedies of life in a way that still leaves hope for a better day. While his journey and sound are specific, we have found that, even inside the label, he connects across age, gender and musical taste in an incredibly universal way. We could not be more excited to partner with him and his team in championing his music across the globe!”

“Music has always been personal to me. Everything I write either helps me work through something or tells a real story from my life,” states Atlus. “The industry default is ‘It’s not personal, it’s just business.’ But that’s never been true for me, and from day one [Jon] Loba, JoJamie [Hahr] and everyone at BMG have shown it’s never been true for them either. It’s clear we are truly on the same page. It IS personal and that is the way we do business.”

About Atlus:
Raised in a single-parent home marked by poverty and addiction, Atlus had to grow up fast, building incredible resilience and laying the foundation for a life rooted in the search for authentic relationships and honest storytelling. Phonetically named after the mythological Titan who held up the heavens, Atlus wrote his first two (of four) albums while working as a commercial driver behind the wheel of semi-trucks, using the long, lonesome miles of highway to craft lyrics and workshop melodies as he drove countless hours to help support his family and fund studio time.

That pavement-pounding lifestyle became both his education and his engine. Over time, it helped grow his underground following and ultimately led to breakout moments like performing alongside Jelly Roll at a packed Red Rocks Amphitheatre in his home state, and landing a Top 5 album on Spotify’s Global Album Chart, along with a Platinum single. The magic of Atlus lies in how he marries candid, arresting, and often dark subjects with a kaleidoscope of sound. His music blends multiple styles into something fresh and immersive, anchored by storytelling that creates a deep community with his fans. Now with over a billion on-demand streams and two million followers across socials, Atlus continues to build his career on real connections and tenacity. He’s holding up his musical dreams in support of his family and anyone who turns to music as an outlet for their own struggles.

3 X GOLDEN GUITAR WINNER, MAX JACKSON, RELEASES A ROLLICKING ANTHEM TO HER FAVOURITE COUNTRY ERA WITH “1990 SOMETHIN'”

Max Jackson has been on a roll since the start of 2024 with no signs of slowing down. After a string of hit singles, 3 x Golden Guitar Awards, national TV performances, Australian headline dates and CMC Rocks main stage performance; Max releases her latest single, 1990 Somethin’.

Firin’ up the time machine, 1990 Somethin’ is a rollicking, throwback inspired anthem; with Max name droppin’ her favourite 90’s artists including Shania Twain, Alan Jackson & Joe Diffie. The track will have you 2-steppin’ back in time.

As Max describes the new single, “Growing up in the 90’s, I had the greatest country soundtrack. I was so inspired by the energy, the great songwriting, the artists being larger than life and… You bet, the outfits!

I had the idea for this song come to me while standing side stage watching Zach Top play at CMC Rocks earlier this year. I was hearing the music and looking at the crowd and I felt like there were less iPhones in the air and that 90’s nostalgia was brand new & beautiful. My songs have always been inspired by the music that I grew up on; but we just turned it up a notch on this one!”

1990 Somethin’ was penned by Max, Nicholas Wolfe and Kylie Sackley and produced by Rod McCormack. Following on from the single release, Max Jackson will be performing in the space of one month: Deni Ute Muster, Savannah in the Round, Groundwater Festival and The Bend in South Australia.

About Max Jackson:
From humble beginnings in the small country town of Coonamble NSW (Pop. 2750), to winning Australia’s biggest country music competition (Toyota Star Maker). Max has played National & international Country Music Festivals including CMA Fest in Nashville and more. The 3 X Golden Guitar Winner and TCMF Ambassador is only just beginning with her fanbase continually growing globally.

The Door Opens for Seajem Sounds’ Debut

Fresh from stages around the Gold Coast and a strong run at Tamworth, rising band Seajem Sounds have released their debut original single, The Door – a track that’s already picked up airplay before it even hits streaming platforms.

After they entered the track into Triple J Unearthed High, ABC Country embraced it, adding it to full rotation two weeks before release and supporting it with a feature on Saturday Night Country.

The band – fronted by sisters Chelsea and Jemilla Cunningham alongside Noah Dunlop, Loki Gibson and Oscar Kelly – formed through high school and have been performing together ever since. Pretty quickly they realised they didn’t just want to be known for covers.

“We didn’t want to just be seen as a covers band,” Chelsea said. “If we want to be known for who we are, we’ve got to put originals out there.”

The Door started as a small idea Loki and Noah worked on after the 2025 Tamworth Country Music Festival where they busked on Tamworth’s Boulevard of Dreams (Peel St), and it became the band’s first original song.

Produced by Peter Aaron King (back home on the Gold Coast after 15 years in Nashville, where he worked on Wynonna Judd’s album, among other projects) and mastered by Paul Blakey, the track carries Seajem Sounds’ indie-country coastal flavour, warm harmonies and a storyline that digs into love, loss, and finding light again.

“It’s uplifting. It’s about realising that even when love feels gone, there’s still something bright around the corner,” Noah said.

With Chelsea fresh from graduating the 2025 CMAA Junior Course in Tamworth, and the band booked for Groundwater and also notching up gigs from Mo’s Desert Clubhouse to Greenbank Services Club, Seajem Sounds are proof the future is bright for Australian country.

Rising country artist Sammi Palinkas set to release debut album “No Settlin'”

Australian country artist Sammi Palinkas is gearing up to release her highly anticipated debut album, No Settlin’, on September 19. Produced by award-winning Producer Rod McCormack (Lee Kernaghan, The Wolfe Brothers, Paul Kelly) and co-written with acclaimed Nashville songwriters Sally Barris, Templeton Thompson, Sam Gay, and Joie Scott, the 16-track collection is an intimate snapshot of the little life lessons Palinkas has gathered over the past five years. The record weave’s themes of resilience, love, and personal growth into a musical journey that is as empowering as it is heartfelt.

Palinkas has been steadily teasing singles from the album over the past two years, already making waves on the charts. A deluxe edition featuring bonus tracks is in the works for 2026.

“The hook we wrote for my track ‘No Settlin”- ‘No settlin’, I’m happy on my own’ – felt like the biggest life lesson of them all,” Palinkas shares. “It summed up exactly where I was in my life. When we finished recording that song, I turned to Rod in the studio and said, ‘Ok, I think we’re done now.’ That’s when I knew we had finished the album.”

The album’s focus track, Never Known Better, is a sassy, upbeat anthem with the sparkle of Dolly Parton, sass of Shania Twain, and the modern edge of Emily Ann Roberts. Co-written with McCormack and Barris, the song celebrates the joy of unexpectedly falling in love with someone who turns out to be nothing like you first imagined in all the best ways. It’s the classic “don’t judge a book by its cover” story, wrapped in a feel-good ending.

The playful visualiser captures the nostalgia of giddy first love. Palinkas sits on a bed with an old-school telephone, glowing as she replays the details of an unforgettable date – perfectly evoking that moment when you just can’t wait to call your best friend and spill the tea.

No Settlin’ is more than an album – Palinkas partnered with longtime collaborator Bonnie Jarrett (BonnCreative) to create a world consisting of 16 hyper-stylised scenes and visualisers, each one a dollhouse-like vignette bursting with colour and personality, and an acoustic video to match.

“I kept getting told I looked like Western Barbie, and I was determined not to become just another blonde country singer,” Palinkas explains. “So, I decided to have some fun with that idea and built a whole little world around the music. I mocked up the concept with AI and shared it with Bonnie, after 48 hours of filming across four days, 17 sets, 19 costume changes, and a small army of wonderful people – we brought my vision to life.”

Palinkas has already carved out her place in the Australian country music scene. Her debut single Meet in the Middle hit #3 on the iTunes Country Chart and #8 across All Genres, while follow-ups You’ve Lived, Don’t Blink, and Let Your Hair Down all reached the Top 10. Both Meet in the Middle and No Settlin’ broke into the CountryTown National Airplay Top 50 and were named semi-finalists in the International Songwriting Competition (ISC).

From winning a national singing competition at just eight years old, to performing at events like the VFLW Grand Final, Palinkas has pursued music with tenacity. Along the way, she has collaborated with top songwriters in Los Angeles, New York, and Nashville, and earned recognition from both the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) and the ISC.

To celebrate the release, Palinkas will headline her album launch at George Lane, St Kilda (VIC) on September 19, before joining a top-tier lineup including Zac Brown Band, Jackson Dean, James Johnston, Casey Barnes, Kasey Chambers, Daryl Braithwaite and more, at the renowned Australian country music festival Savannah in the Round in October.

With a bold creative vision, powerhouse vocals, and a catalogue of songs that speak to life’s biggest lessons, Sammi Palinkas is quickly proving herself as one of the most exciting new voices in Australian country music. The album and focus single will be supported by digital marketing, radio distribution, and merchandise.