ZFM Country

Today, Nashville-based singer-songwriter Max McNown announced his sophomore album Night Diving (out January 24, 2025 via Fugitive Recordings x The Orchard) alongside the release of his introspective single “Better Me For You (Brown Eyes).”

Following the release of “Hotel Bible,” the introspective new single boasts earnest lyrics that offer a personal reflection on rising to the occasion for a once-in-a-lifetime love. The song’s protagonist has just met the girl of his dreams, “but it’s more than just her alluring brown eyes that captivate him,” shares Max. “She imbues goodness and, above all, has a “heart of gold.”

Both tracks are part of the stunning Night Diving LP, which is McNown’s promising follow-up to his critically-acclaimed debut album Wandering. Produced by Jamie Kenney (Colbie Caillat, Laci Kaye Booth), Night Diving is a body of work that explores new and daring sonic terrain while fully affirming McNown’s extraordinary capacity to ease the mind and strengthen the soul. In an exclusive feature revealing McNown as Country Rookie of the Month, Billboard says, “The new music centers on his poetic, observational writing style, while adding polish to his personally-crafted songs.” Read the full interview here.

Just last month, McNown was also featured as CMT’s Next Up Now featured artist as we saw the release of his Willfully Blind EP, which landed as the Oregon-born artist made his Americana Fest debut, and as we saw another major resurgence of his breakout hit single “A Lot More Free” after this TikTok celebrating the track’s one year anniversary went viral (14.7M views and counting). Since the single’s release it has amassed over 80M+ streams, earned McNown a top spot as #1 on Billboard’s Emerging Artists chart, peaked at #1 on the iTunes singles chart and #1 on the TikTok Breakthrough USA chart, climbed the Canadian Hot 100 chart , and was placed on Spotify’s Hot Country and Viral 50 global playlists.

At 23, McNown has already been on a storied musical journey. Taking control of his future, overcoming personal challenges, and drawing inspiration from his brother who was bravely fighting cancer, McNown packed his bags and drove from remote Oregon to Southern California. From there, videos of him busking on a pier made an impact online and eventually grew into a legion of supporters on TikTok (currently has 1.9M followers). After attracting interest from major TV talent shows, McNown auditioned for one and then decided it wasn’t for him and gracefully turned them down as he knew he needed to walk his own path.

Earlier this year, McNown earned ample support for his first full-length record, Wandering , which was listed as a top debut album of the year by Whiskey Riff, and lauded by Holler, American Songwriter, People Magazine, and more. He then went on his first tours supporting folk band Briscoe, Australian artist Blake Rose, and opened for major country stars such as Wynonna Judd, plus made his Grand Ole Opry debut.

The rising singer-songwriter’s debut headline tour kicks off in January 2025 and has already sold out stops in New York City, Los Angeles, Seattle, Chicago, and other cities. Next year, he will also be performing at Arizona’s Extra Innings Festival – visit maxmcnown.com for more information and catch him opening for Corey Kent and Sam Barber this fall and winter.

The year 2024 was monumental for Cali Tucker. Described by People magazine as a “blend of sweet and sassy…addictive” during the exclusive premiere of her video for “Country Couture” in July, Cali has seen her artist profile skyrocket. Her solo recordings have amassed over one million streams on Spotify and over 250,000 views on YouTube.

Born into Country music royalty, Cali carries on the Tucker Dynasty, with her mother being ’70s hitmaker LaCosta Tucker and her aunt the legendary Tanya Tucker. Cali has appeared on national television shows and performed live with her family across the US and Canada. At fifteen, she won the prestigious national title of Miss Teen All American. She graced the stage of the Grand Ole Opry at eighteen and entertained audiences at Dollywood.

Cali’s career surged when she was featured on NBC’s “The Voice,” becoming a finalist on Blake Shelton’s team. Since then, she has established herself as a headlining act in Las Vegas, performing at top venues including Aria, The Wynn, MGM Grand, and Resorts World, among many others. Her live performances captivate audiences with her powerful voice, stunning looks, humor, and impeccable showmanship.

Cali’s breakout song, “Country Couture,” epitomizes her brand. The single and its infectious music video, which has garnered significant attention, showcase designer labels and a luxury lifestyle while highlighting Cali’s down-to-earth personality. The song received a limited release to radio last July and has since been streamed over 600,000 times while continuing to gain traction across music and video platforms. The song was co-written by Cali with multi-platinum, Grammy-nominated producer G’harah “PK” Degeddingseze and multi-platinum writer and vocal producer, Tricia Battani.

Looking ahead to 2025, Cali has several exciting projects on the horizon. In addition to the release of “Country Couture” to worldwide radio and video outlets, she has a new single and video, “Last Name,” her fourth collaboration with Battani and Degeddingseze, which promises to deliver something unexpected yet true to her style. There’s a new Tucker in town and you’re gonna be hearing a LOT more from her!

The new focus single from Keith Urban’s ARIA Top 5 album ‘HIGH’ is ‘HEART LIKE A HOMETOWN’.

Keith talks ‘HEART LIKE A HOMETOWN’: “When I was a kid our family moved around a lot. By the 5th grade I’d been in four schools and lived in nine different houses. So, a ‘hometown’ felt more about family and a place inside of me, somewhere I could find my center. It’s a theme that’s always spoken to me. Songs like Don Williams “If Hollywood Don’t Need You” and Glen Campbell’s “Country Boy (You Got Your Feet in LA)” and a I recorded on my ‘FUSE’ album, “Come Back To Me”. Those songs and this one all share a similar feeling – a kind of grounded safety, familiarity and a place where I can always find ME.”

Lyn Bowtell slices through with Paper Cut.

Multi Award-winning Australian country music sensation Lyn Bowtell has unveiled her latest single, ‘Paper Cut’, a poignant track that explores the pain of fractured relationships, both romantic and platonic.

The idea for ‘Paper Cut’ came to Lyn after receiving an actual paper cut while doing admin.

“When it happened, I thought to myself, ‘It won’t kill me; it’s just a paper cut,’ then that thought suggested a connection with my experiences of relationship breakdowns,” Lyn explained.

“The sense of loss when a relationship ends, whether it be creative, friendship or romantic, can linger. Sometimes, even a small reminder brings the pain back. It’s as much a heart wound, as it is a physical one. It was one of those quick song writes that are a blessing: that arrive swiftly, almost fully formed.”

The single features the vocal harmonies of country music icon Kasey Chambers, who fell in love with the track after hearing Lyn perform it during a SHE Songwriting Retreat.

“Kasey’s harmonies add a real depth,” Lyn said.

“She captured the raw, broken-hearted emotion perfectly, reminiscent of an Emmylou Harris classic.”

Adding to the song’s timeless appeal is Kasey’s father, Bill Chambers, whose slide guitar work lends a rich, vintage country feel.

“Having Bill involved was the icing on the cake,” Lyn said.

“His contributions are a heartfelt nod to legends like Patsy Cline and George Jones who shaped my love for country music.”

‘Paper Cut’ also symbolises Lyn’s growth both personally and professionally. The 10-time Golden Guitar winner has entrusted herself even further with the recording of her upcoming album, stepping into the producer’s chair for the first time alongside partner, Damon Morton.

Her ongoing work with SHE Songwriting Retreats – a passion project encouraging and empowering women songwriters, has also influenced the themes of the track.

“This song’s message is about trusting your instincts,” Lyn said.

“If something feels wrong, step away, take a moment, and prioritise yourself.”

Lyn describes ‘Paper Cut’ as an “instant classic”, rooted in the simplicity and purity of traditional country music.

“This track reflects where I come from – Queensland country music clubs and my mum’s cherished record collection,” she said.

“There’s a beauty in the simplicity of those songs, and that’s what I’ve tried to re-create here.”

‘Paper Cut’ will debut live at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, with Lyn hosting Lyn Bowtell and Her Famous Friends at the Longyard Hotel on January 26.

A fresh new face to country music, Gary Anderson is a brand-new country entertainer born in Sydney, Australia, who has been packing houses with sold out shows for the past 2 years in Australia where he is becoming known as the consummate performer.

His single, ‘When You’re Tipsy is the first single off his upcoming Nashville recorded album. A body of work featuring 20 extraordinary tracks and a heartfelt celebration of life experiences and country living. His sound is modern and unique with driving guitars, pounding drums and his melodic smooth vocal centre stage. He works his boots off.

The debut gem contains moments that revel in joy and nostalgia yet dares to dwell on the ups and downs of modern relationships that face so many people in today’s world. Featured on this track is world renowned saxophonist “Jim Hoke” who also recently played on Paul McCartney’s album and on the albums of many legends in the US. Also featured on backing vocals on the track is the sensational “Mike Lusk” who tours with and is backing singer for superstars Martina McBride and Montgomery Gentry.

Dylan Holton , the accomplished Canadian singer-songwriter from Nova Scotia, currently based in Ottawa, continues to make a significant impact in the music industry. His well-received singles, including “Take Your Top Off” and “I Used To,” have earned him accolades, with the latter winning the Grand Slam Prize in the Unsigned Only Music Competition.

Holton, having secured a record deal in Los Angeles, has toured extensively, headlining a Cruise Ship Tour through exotic destinations. Noteworthy performances include sharing the stage with Travis Tritt.

Holton’s entrepreneurial spirit led to the creation of Capital Content, his video production venture. His latest single, “Beach Please ,” was a runner up in the International Songwriting Competition, adding another feather to his cap.

Just a song about the power of unity and resilience in the face of adversity.

Ron is a unique singer/songwriter from the Yuin Nation on the east coast of NSW. He’s been entertaining audiences across Australia for decades with his heartfelt songs and positive spirit.

Ron has an on-stage presence and keeps audiences engaged through the stories of his songs.

‘Can’t Blame My Bloodline’ – The Bold Title Track from Dallas Alexander’s First Studio Album

• New Release: Debut studio album featuring the powerful title track “Can’t Blame My Bloodline.”
• Streaming Success: Over 175k streams and growing!
• Radio Highlights:
• SiriusXM: High rotation on Indigiverse and newly added to Top Of The Country!
• US Airplay: Strong spins in California and Texas.
• Australia: Featured on ABC Country and KIX FM, charting in Tasmania .
• Global Reach: Over 800 station adds internationally.
• Upcoming Shows: Catch Dallas live in Alberta, Colorado, Texas, Wyoming, and New Mexico.
• Why Add Him? Authentic, gritty country sound with a driving beat that resonates with listeners. Perfect for high-impact playlists and shows. Add Dallas Alexander to your rotation today and bring his sound to your audience!

The newest single from Aaron Halliday is tracking and trending at several different levels after the first 10 days of delivery.

It has seen surprising attention from 3 different markets, as the Americana and Christian Country Markets have been instrumental in driving the numbers of radio plays along with the Country music stations.

This song has been resonating with so many people over such a wide demographic as it reminds some of their history and sets up a futuristic view for younger listeners.

The underlying theme of things taking time to materialize is one that is relative to today, yesterday and tomorrow, which will become an anthem for so many across many different backgrounds.

Have a listen or listen again and see how much truth is in the words because, like Aarons musical journey – Home Wasn’t Built In A Day either!

About Mitchell Ferguson:

Mitchell Ferguson is a rising country-soul artist often described as a combination of Chris Stapleton and Teddy Swims. With 163k TikTok followers, 12M+ likes, and over 47 viral videos (12 surpassing 1M views), Mitchell has built a devoted fanbase through his heartfelt covers, comedic takes on country music, and authentic storytelling.

Mitchell’s viral success has translated into 5,500+ pre-saves (and climbing) for Drink A Beer and a growing audience of 63k monthly Spotify listeners. As an independent artist, he has shown an incredible ability to activate his fanbase and sustain momentum through innovative campaigns. His sound and story appeal to both younger TikTok-savvy listeners and traditional country fans.

About the Song:

Drink A Beer is a country anthem with singer-songwriter vibes and modern production. It all started as a playful TikTok video where Mitchell jokingly made up lyrics for a “pop-country song,” which unexpectedly went viral, racking up 1.3M views. From there, he leaned into the momentum, wrote the first verse and chorus, and performed an acoustic version that hit even more, gaining 1.9M views.

Mitchell didn’t just stop at producing the song-he made sure fans were a part of the process. Before recording the track, he launched an Open Verse Challenge on TikTok, inspiring hundreds of fans to jump in, many of them going viral themselves. Then, he took things a step further by hosting a live event at a bar he used to play at, where a 200+ person community choir sang backup vocals for the final recording. It doesn’t get much more authentic than that.

Now, with the official produced version teased, the song’s campaign has already pulled in over 4.5M views across six promotional videos, proving just how much it’s resonating with fans. Drink A Beer isn’t just a song-it’s a shared experience that is bringing people together in a way that feels fresh and real.