ZFM Country

Today, Country Pop Artist, Kaylee Bell returns with her latest single, ‘Small Town Friday Nights’.

The new single, ‘Small Town Friday Nights’, is a follow up to her smash hit, ‘Keith’, which peaked at #1 on the Countrytown Hot 50 Country Airplay Chart, charted in the US, Canada, UK, Norway, and New Zealand and took the #1 All Genre spot in Australia for a week ahead of Harry Styles and Luke Combs. The song written as a tribute to Keith Urban, also earned Kaylee the title of the ‘Most Streamed Country Artist for Australasia’ in 2022 with ‘Keith’ being the most streamed country song of the year with over 12 million streams. In total, she boasts over 40 million global streams to date.

‘Small Town Friday Nights’ was co-written with Nashville hitmakers Lindsay Rimes (Kane Brown, Thomas Rhett) and Phil Barton (Lee Brice) who Bell collaborated with on ‘Keith’ during a recent writing trip in Nashville – her first in two years after travelling there every year for the past 12 years.

“I had the idea and song title ‘Small Town Friday Nights’ in my song bank for a while and I knew I wanted to write it that day, so I took it to Phil and Lindsay and we wrote this song super-fast,” Kaylee admits.

‘Small Town Friday Nights’ is an anthem and a call for celebration for anyone who grew up in a small town and loves to throw it down on a Friday night.

“I was raised in a small town Waimate, in the South Island of New Zealand with a population of 3000 people and some of my best memories are of Friday night’s hanging with my friends,” Kaylee says. “The whole town would go and play touch footy then head off to the pub or off to a house party or bonfire in a paddock out in the country. These were some of the best memories of growing up in a small town and I vividly remember how significant Friday nights were. They bought the town together and it didn’t matter how old you were, everyone hung out.”

The accompanying music video was shot by Brooks Barry in Leiper’s Fork, Nashville and captures that same carefree and breezy spirit of the upbeat track.

“Leiper’s Fork, a little area outside of Nashville was a place that I absolutely fell in love with while I was in the States. It reminded me so much of home,” confesses Kaylee . “I was thinking of shooting a music video in Nashville for the song while I was listening to the demo while out for a Sunday drive and I just happened to drive past the red truck on the side of the road that we ended up using in the clip. It was sitting there with a ‘for sale’ sign on it and I loved how much of a story it looked like it told and how beat up it was and I knew I wanted to have in the video.”

“I hadn’t driven in America before due to the wrong side of car and road situation, and so my first experience of driving in the US was driving this truck for my music video… of course it was,” she laughs.

Having started singing at four-years-old, Kaylee moved to Australia at age 21 to where she won the prestigious Toyota Star Maker Prize and released her debut studio album, ‘Heart First’, in 2013. Supports for The Chicks, Keith Urban and Morgan Evans followed, as well as festival slots at CMC Rocks and C2C London, and shows in New Zealand, Australia and the US.

Other accolades include being the first artist outside of the US to win the US Unsigned Only Global Grand Prize, winner of the APRA NZ ‘Best Country Song’ and winner of the prestigious Tui Award for ‘NZ Best Country Artist’ at the Aotearoa Music Awards. She was also the face of Spotify’s EQUAL campaign and saw her featured in Times Square, New York representing female in music globally.

Kaylee recently teamed up with James Johnston on ‘Same Songs’, which has over 1.4 million global streams to date and continues to climb the Countrytown Hot 50 Country Airplay Chart after having peaked at #4. She has previously collaborated with Jared Porter (‘Pieces’), Canadian country pop singer Lindsay Ell (‘Living Free’), Bastian Baker (‘A Heart Don’t Break Like That’), Australian sister trio The McClymonts (‘Before I Met You’), Josh Mirenda ( ‘That Summer’), Lepandi (‘That Summer’) and fellow 2022 The Voice Australia finalist, Finnian Johnson (‘Landslide’).

In addition to the new single, Kaylee will support US country superstar, Brad Paisley on the New Zealand leg of his current world tour alongside Morgan Evans and MacKenzie Porter and perform at Groundwater Country Music Festival on the Gold Coast on Saturday 29th October.

2022 has already been a massive year for newcomer, Brittany Elise. She took the crown at the Gympie Music Muster’s NAB Talent Search, was a grand finalist in the prestigious Toyota Star Maker competition and awarded Most Popular New Female Artist of the Year at the ICMA Awards. She’s still touring the nation off the back of her scorching single, ‘Feel The Fire’ and today her latest single ‘Like Me That Way’ arrives, just ahead of the release of her new album Just Be (out 21st October – available for pre order now).

‘Like Me That Way’ springs to life with sunny acoustic guitars, while Brittany’s vocal commands centre stage. She sings an empowered tune of self-love – “I like the way I am / This is who I am / I like me that way”.

Written alongside Lyn Bowtell, the song is Brittany’s take on a breakup anthem; “a reminder to never change who you are as a person especially if others are telling you to.” When shaping the tone for the single she drew inspiration from other Aussie females. “I took influence from two powerful artists and songs – Kasey Chambers ‘Am I Not Pretty Enough’ and Missy Higgins ‘Scar’.

As is not uncommon in these times, Brittany collaborated with her producer, Liam Quinn (Guy Sebastian, Rita Ora, James Johnston), remotely. “These vocals were recorded in my Queensland home built studio and the rest produced in Sydney, NSW,” she tells. The result is an uplifting blend of Country musicality layered with pop hooks – a sound fans have come to love from Brittany Elise.

To date, Brittany has release 5 tracks from her upcoming album. They’ve made her a common fixture on the CountryTown Hot 50 airplay chart (peak #16), earned her thousands of streams on Apple Music and Spotify playlists and received high rotation on countless national radio stations. No small feat for a new artist.

She’s opened for artists including James Johnston, Amber Lawrence and Darlinghurst and is in the midst of her own ‘Feel The Fire’ tour. The 6 month tour has seen Brittany trace the coast of QLD so far with shows in NSW, VIC and TAS still to come, as well as an appearance at the Agnes Blues and Roots festival in QLD.

Brittany Elise’s inspiring messages, set to an equally upbeat soundtrack have proven to be a much-loved recipe. With each release she gains more listeners, drawn to the honesty and relatability of her words. ‘Like Me That Way’ is yet another excellent offering from an artist who is proud to share her story.

Riding the high of their successful Pozible Campaign which concluded this week, the Vixens of Fall are keeping the good times rolling with the release of fiery new single, ‘Prove You Wrong’ this Friday the 30th of September.

“Prove You Wrong is cheeky, rebellious… a rowdy good time! It’s tongue in cheek, sprinkled with a little chaos and dash of spice. A love letter to the wild ones!”, the sister trio said of the new single. The track promises a hook that will take no prisoners on the dance floor; hot and high, energetic, and sticky-sweet. It’s a tequila fueled road-trip down a neon-lit Memphis strip.

The track follows the Vixens down their laneway of an increasingly high energy Country-Rock sound, which they say is a taste of all that’s to come on their crowd-funded Debut Album due February 2023. Fans of the Vixens have validated the girls’ evolving sonic direction, with over 145 members of their community (or ‘Skulk’, if we want to be on brand) raising over $25,000 in under 4 weeks to support the production of the girls forthcoming record.

With over 100,000 streams on their previous single (Ain’t Goin’ Home) released this July, the Vixens are taking names and commanding attention like never before. Prove You Wrong is a co-write between the Vixens’ Adrienne Whitehouse, Rod McCormack (Paul Kelly, The McClymonts, Beccy Cole) and Nashville based Sally Barris (Kathy Mattea, Martina McBride, Lee Ann Womack). Their relevancy and community is on the up-and-up, and not a moment out of order.

2022 has been a game-changing, gear-changing year for the sisters, who started off with a bang when they were invited to open the Main Stage at Tamworth Country Music Festival. The energy continued full tilt as the Vixens set out to get another year of touring Queensland under their belts, including performances opening for Daryl Braithwaite at the Mount Isa Street Festival, and taking Crow Bar by storm at the Gympie Music Muster, including a very special main stage moment sharing a song with friend and Australian music legend Beccy Cole .

Prove You Wrong can be enjoyed in all the usual spots; and for lovers of a good old fashioned hard-cover copy, keep an eye out for the debut Vixens of Fall album this coming February.

Award-winning Mercury Nashville duo Maddie & Tae have released their 8-song collection, Through The Madness Vol. 2. Previously sharing the heartfelt “Every Night Every Morning” and moving-on anthem “Spring Cleaning,” six additional songs are released today, each co-penned by Maddie & Tae. The confident second half of the duo’s 1-2 punch offers a harmony-drenched song cycle and a clear-eyed measure of two young women coming into their own, embracing the best of everything life hands them.

Through The Madness Vol. 2 Track List:

1. “Well In Your World” (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Ryan Hurd, Jimmy Robbins)^
2. “Every Night Every Morning” (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Jonathan Singleton, Brock Berryhill)^
3. “Drinking To Remember” (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Benjy Davis, Daniel Ross)^
4. “Girl After My Own Heart” (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Matt Dragstrem, Josh Thompson)^
5. “Watching Love Leave” (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Benjy Davis, Daniel Ross)^
6. “More Than Maybe” (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Jessie Jo Dillon, Jimmy Robbins)^
7. “These Tears” (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Laura Veltz, Jon Green)*
8. “Spring Cleaning” (Maddie Font, Taylor Kerr, Josh Kerr, Tayla Parx)*

^ = Produced by Derek Wells & Jimmy Robbins

• = Produced by Derek Wells & Josh Kerr

Maddie & Tae are celebrating the release with a brand-new music video for “Watching Love Leave.” Watch the clip HERE.

In case you missed it, the pair brought “Every Night Every Morning” to NBC’s TODAY With Hoda & Jenna on Wednesday. Watch their performance of the “breezy, tuneful” (MusicRow) song HERE. The duo also opened up to Entertainment Tonight about their new project, life on the road, and Tae gave an exclusive nursery tour HERE.

About Maddie & Tae:

Award-winning duo Maddie & Tae channel their unbreakable bond, honest songwriting and “some of the tightest harmonies on Music Row” (Rolling Stone) into their new collection of songs Through The Madness Vol. 2, out now. Together as longtime friends and music collaborators, Maddie Font and Taylor Kerr co-wrote each of the project’s tracks, as well as all 8 songs on Through The Madness Vol. 1, including their most recent single, “Woman You Got,” plus fan-favorite songs “Strangers” and “Madness.” The pair drew praise for their No. 1 debuting The Way It Feels album, including the Double Platinum-certified No. 1 hit, “Die From A Broken Heart.” With “Die From A Broken Heart” topping the country airplay charts, Maddie & Tae became the first and only female twosome with multiple No. 1s.

Maddie & Tae first broke out in 2013 with their brilliant counter to bro-country, the Platinum-selling smash, “Girl In A Country Song,” which took Country radio by storm, skyrocketing to the top of the charts and establishing them as only the third female duo in 70 years to top the Country Airplay charts. They recently took home Group/Duo Video of the Year (“Woman You Got”) at the CMT Music Awards, and were nominated a seventh time for Vocal Duo of the Year at the 55th CMA Awards. They have earned trophies from the Radio Disney Music Awards and CMA Awards, along with multiple ACM, Billboard and CMT Award nominations. Maddie & Tae have received widespread praise from Associated Press, Billboard, Entertainment Weekly, NPR, The Tennessean, The Washington Post, Glamour and others. The celebrated duo has toured with country music’s hottest stars including Carrie Underwood, Dierks Bentley, and Brad Paisley. They are currently headlining the CMT Next Women of Country Tour Presents: All Song No Static Tour in 2022,
hitting major markets coast-to-coast.

As an ARIA and 21 x Golden Guitar award winning artist, Sara Storer is well known across the great southern land for her fair dinkum, roots orientated country music. It’s been 3 years since the release of her ARIA nominated album Raindance. Today Sara returns, teaming up with sibling Greg Storer under the moniker Storer, with the release of their first single ‘Show Me’ from their forthcoming album.

The genetic bond between siblings and their offspring has often resulted in some of the most creative and successful musical collaborations in history. Neil and Tim Finn, the Gibb brothers, The Carpenters and closer to home, Nick and Tom Wolfe of the Wolfe Brothers, to name just a few. Sara and Greg have clearly tapped into that magic with their rousing single, ‘Show Me’ .

Sara’s musical journey began in 2000 with her debut album, Chasing Buffalo, while Greg was (and still is) a working farmer in Western NSW. Greg eventually showed that talent is in the Storer blood with his songwriting contributions on Sara’s second album, and the release of his solo album in 2010 which earned high praise from fans and critics alike. He’s now a permanent fixture at Sara’s shows and constant writing partner – they even shared a Golden Guitar win for their collaboration ‘When I Was a Boy’. Yet this is the first time in over 20 years of storytelling together, that the two have recorded a full album under a band name.

The up-tempo first single, ‘Show Me’, is straight shooting country stomper, centered around the age-old idiom of ‘practice what you preach’. “You tell me to walk in a straight line and I say how is that done? Show me,” they sing in the song’s emphatic chorus with a rare tone quality only heard when siblings harmonise with each other.

“The idea came to me when I heard someone was running my family down,” admits Sara. Although she claims the drama wasn’t worth the time of day it was enough to inspire her to put pen to paper. “That got the ball rolling and Greg jumped on a verse too.”

The weave of banjo and guitar that ebbs and flows beneath Sara and Greg’s vocals was constructed by long-time collaborator and first-time producer, James Gillard (Kevin Bennett). “I first met James when he recorded bass on my debut album,” recalls Sara. “Since then, he has played bass/acoustic guitar both in studio sessions or in the band for me over my 25 year career in country music. It wasn’t until I heard his production on his own EP that he and his wife Shanley made that I secretly held the idea of maybe working with James down the track, when timing was right. And this album was the perfect time for a change.”

The band name Storer extends to more than just Sara and Greg, as Greg’s daughters Pip and Bonnie featured heavily in the recording of the new material. “Bonnie and Pip jumped on a couple of songs and turned it into a bit of a family affair,” smiles Sara. Gillard also pulled together a formidable line-up of Aussie players to round out the performance, including Rod McCormack, Michael Moko and Scott Hills. “The songs were heard; the playing was heartfelt. It was a fresh change and so inspirational to be working with James in the studio.”

In addition to the new single, the Storer’s will be headed on tour in 2023. “We will be singing a bunch of new songs off the forthcoming STORER album as well as some oldies that people will know,” says Sara. The band will wind through rural and metro Australia, beginning with a show in the country capital, Tamworth, and finishing in in the Northern Territory. “We sing about our country men and women, and we know it’s important to bring our stories to these towns and regions… especially Greg, who has just jumped off a tractor himself to be there.”

Paul Kelly described Sara as a pillar of authenticity in country music; “She’s found her own restraint and steel and lets her songs do their sweet, sly work.” While music journalist Susan Jarvis said of Greg, “Greg knows and understands, and has a rare gift for conveying humour, pathos, love, and fear through his music.” These are two storytellers highly regarded in their own right, finally coming together to tell the story of their Australia.

Casey Barnes continues the momentum of his best-selling album “Light It Up” with the release of the fifth single “Small Town”. The track follows the massive success of the #1 smash hits “God Took His Time On You”, “Get To Know Ya”, “Come Turn Me On” and latest single “Kiss Me Like You Mean It”.

Co-written by Casey with the songwriting/production duo MSquared (Michael Delorenzis & Michael Paynter), the song tackles the emotional toll of a broken-down relationship, made even more complex when it happens in a small town. The song has been a favourite amongst fans since the release of “Light It Up” in February this year.

Casey has had an incredible run over the last three years with his latest album, “Light It Up” recently reaching the milestone of half a year in the Top 10 of the ARIA Australian Country Album Chart, while his 2020 album “Town of a Million Dreams” has been in the Top 40 of the chart for two years. Those albums combined have generated seven #1 country singles to date and amassed over 40 million track streams.

Casey’s brand of radio-friendly country-pop has not only lit up the airways and playlists but has graced mainstream TV, with high profile song syncs on the 2022 AFL Season Launch campaign (Light It Up) and more recently, with promo’s for the 2022 season of Farmer Wants a Wife (Get To Know Ya).

Casey has become one of the most sought after live performers in Australian country music and he will be undertaking his first U.S tour in October, when he performs as special guest with U.S vocal group, Home Free on their Road Sweet Road Tour. He has several shows and festivals remaining on the Light It Up Tour, culminating at the Tamworth Country Music Festival in January.

Back with a brand new single which is set to flip the script, Josh Setterfield brings us ‘Blow Our Cover’. If the adrenaline surrounding Josh isn’t already high, then this is about to take it higher.
Not afraid to push the boundaries at all, the trailblazing single from Josh Setterfield epitomises the blur between country pop and gutsy stadium rock. Recorded in Canada and mixed in Nashville by Aaron Chmielewski (Taylor Swift, Tenille Arts), ‘Blow Our Cover’ is the perfect genre busting hit reaching for new dimensions.
Heating things up, this steamy, sexy track tells the story of two people who shouldn’t be caught together. Sometimes deep connections and burning desires are untameable, but how far will one go to protect that?
One of the most exciting and unparalleled country music entertainers. Josh Setterfield is bringing an exceptional live show which is becoming talk of the town; combined with a fresh sound impressing taste makers globally. Since the groundbreaking single ‘Right About Now’ which has accrued over 1 million streams, Josh has jumped from strength to strength. Supported by a loyal and fast growing fan base, back to back #1’s on CMT, global playlisting and high rotation radio play nationally and internationally.
Josh Setterfield has been on the road touring with Casey Barnes, performing at festivals around the country and has previously supported Love & Theft (USA), The Wolfe Brothers, The Viper Creek Band and Shannon Noll. If you haven’t heard the name, then you’re about to.

A love of boxing, tales from his uncle and experience in the ring has inspired Danny Phegan’s latest single, ‘The Fight Song’.

Danny’s uncle was professional champion fighter Johnny Gorkom, and he grew up listening to him and his mates tell tales from the ring, before Danny himself took to boxing in his teens.

“I always thought the one-liners they used were funny, so I’ve collated them in one single volume, ‘The Fight Song’,” he said.

“I was sparring with my mate Mark, two or three mornings a week, and we’d go for a coffee after we’ve finished belting each other. I said one morning, ‘you know the trouble with you and me? Deep down you think you’re better than me, but further deep down I reckon I’m better than you’, and that’s where it all goes wrong”.

The Fight Song tells of his sparring with Mark and also another mate, Wayne, from whom Danny suffered two broken ribs after taking part in a ‘shark tank’ (a round robin of several sparring participants). His mates offered plenty of inspiration and now star in the film clip, shot by award-winning video director Duncan Toombs of The Filmery.

“I was sparring Wayne and then I had to fight Mark the next round with two broken ribs – that was a tough day at the office,” he said.

The Walla Walla farmer, singer-songwriter and The Voice favourite from Team Keith this year, wrote the song for a laugh.

“It was a little ditty that fell out of my head pretty quickly, and it was something a bit light-hearted to introduce to my live show,” he said.

“I only recorded it because I played it at Country on Keppel in 2021 and Dicko (Ian Dickson) was in the crowd, and we all ended up having breakfast the next morning when Dicko said, ‘your song was the highlight of my weekend’, so I thought I should bloody record it.”

The born storyteller said he hoped it was a moment of distraction from people’s troubles.

“I want people to have a laugh and realise it could be worse: You could be ready for a sneeze with two broken ribs,” he laughed.

Every once and a while, one track emerges onto the world stage that simply takes your breath away. Scheduled for global release on Friday 9 September 2022, “THE ROAD”, the latest offering from Australian Country artist, Laura Frank, is that song. With a return to her traditional country roots, “THE ROAD” tells the tale of Frank’s move from the city to the country to build a house from salvaged and repurposed materials in the pursuit of her dream to live a more conscious and sustainable lifestyle. With the official video capturing many of the moments building the house with her partner, Nick, the raw and poignant lyrics also take you on a parallel voyage into Frank’s mental health struggles.

As world leaders prepare to mitigate the impact of climate change, “THE ROAD” certainly captures the essence of eco warriors across the globe while sharing a very real and personal story along the way. “THE ROAD” is the fifth track to be released in three years, and given that two of those years were interrupted thanks to the global pandemic, Frank has rapidly revealed herself to be one force to be reckoned with. With her last two singles, “SIMPLE GIRL” and “PRETTY” both debuting at number #1 on the iTunes All Genres and Country Music Video Charts, Frank was added to high rotation on commercial network Flow FM across Australia. With a monthly Spotify listenership tripling every 30 days, a fast selling summer tour across regional Queensland, and a podcast LET’S BE FRANK, a lifestyle show shining a light on sustainable brands and sustainability crusaders like herself across the globe, the Frank Train, Laura’s digital fan army, is thundering down the tracks.

Today Sarah Leete returns with her latest single, ‘Girl Next Door’. Following on from the star on the rise’s previous offering, ‘Used’ (which peaked at #14 on the CountryTown Hot 50 airplay chart), the new single continues to showcase Sarah’s trademark straight-shooting storytelling, infused with catchy melodies.

‘Girl Next Door’ bears all the hallmarks of a contemporary country hit – a driving beat, world class production and engaging vocals – yet it still maintains that unique authenticity for which Sarah is known for. A tangle of guitars and banjo ebbs and flows perfectly around her voice, as she reminisces about a past life.

“Girl Next Door is about leaving home and coming back again to all you left behind,” confesses Sarah. While many have previously suffered a tumultuous few years, Sarah has weathered an exceptionally challenging storm, dealing with the loss of both her parents. “I wrote Girl Next Door late last year while getting my childhood home ready to put up for sale. After the last few years that I’ve had, it really has me thinking about the past.”

The song’s title was inspired literally by her childhood neighbour. “The girl I used to live next door to used to play electric guitar and I would hear it through my window while I was learning to play.”

Sarah entrusted QLD producer, Michael Muchow (Catherine Britt, Melody Moko), with the task of building the songs sonic landscape. Together at Airlock Studios (founded by Powderfinger’s Ian Haug) they crafted the track. “It ticks all the boxes for me sonically and it’s something I’m really proud of,” smiles Sarah.

Since her debut self-titled EP release in 2017, Sarah has steadily been building a firm fanbase. Despite the numerous curveballs life has thrown her she continually manages to knock them out of the park – vigorously touring her show and supporting the likes of The Viper Creek Band, Bill Chambers and Fanny Lumsden.

Now she’s set to embark on one of her largest tours to date, the Girl Next Door Tour. The 19 date run will see Sarah snake her way from the county music capital, Tamworth, through the NSW heartland to the Mildura Country Music Festival and back up the east coast, incorporating stops in Canberra and Brisbane.

The last two years have already seen 3 stellar singles from this down-to-earth songwriter and ‘Girl Next Door’ is no exception. “I know that things have changed / I’m not the girl next door.” Dominated by themes of reflection and change, Sarah’s pen describes these sentiments with a genuineness that few possess. Her talent lies in her authenticity, which has allowed her to create truly moving music.

Whilst the last two years have seen the The Sulli-Vans family band shine, it’s time for Kevin Sullivan to release original music once again. ‘Louanne’ is the lead single from Kevin’s upcoming album, the follow-up to his 2018 debut album ‘Belonging’.

Recorded at Alex the Great in Nashville, award-winning Australian producer Matt Fell has captured the warm vintage vibe of the recording studio with a distinct traditional country beat that is now ‘Louanne’. In the recording booth there was a signature gold microphone capturing the deep bass of Sullivan’s voice, transporting you back to a time reminiscent of recording with the legendary likes of Johnny Cash, Elvis Presley, and Roy Orbison.

The method of recording ‘Louanne’ was a first for Kevin, where the musicians were all playing at the same time in parallel separate rooms just like they did in the early days of recording; creating a dynamic sound with a feeling they were on a grand old stage. The music was created with some of Nashville’s finest – Michael Webb on keys (played with John Prine, Chris Stapleton and Hootie & The Blowfish), Will Kimbrough on lead guitar (previously collaborating with Steve Earle and Emmylou Harris) and Evan Hutchings on drums (played with Keith Urban, Steven Tyler and Ronnie Dunn).

This new track is a humorous tongue-in-cheek observation of navigating the world of social media. Kevin adds, “It came about after a real-life person named ‘Louanne’ commented in a positive way about one of my original songs on my Facebook page. As it turned out, Louanne thought she was conversing only with her cousin, but was unaware that her comments could be seen by everyone, including me. Having at times struggled with social media myself, I caution the listener to be careful with their comments, you never know who is reading them”.

The cautionary tale which wouldn’t be out of place in any American diner or old honky-tonk bar, has already been embraced by live audiences; with many people saying it could be a sequel to Dolly Parton’s ‘Joelene’.

‘Louanne’ will be released prior to the next run of The Sulli-Vans shows starting with twelve appearances at the Mildura-Wentworth Country Music Festival in September and Cordola Rocks The River (Morgan SA) in October.

The second radio single from Steve Cheers’ fourth solo album, ’10’000 Ways’ is a call for us all to try and focus on all the good things that surround us every day of our lives.

The track and album, ‘Signs Of Life’, (released September 1st, 2022) is Steve’s second collaboration with producer Matt Fell, and continues to reflect his melodic modern Australian country style.

Steve Cheers hails from the NSW Southern Highlands, where he worked in and on the regions entertainment industry for 25 years. Apart from releasing and performing his own music, he has also worked as an artist manager, promoter, theatrical actor producer and director, and with his wife Geralyn runs the local Music Centre which has educated many thousands of students over the years.

Entertainment has run in the bloodlines of Steve’s family for generations and continues with members of his own family engaging in music teaching, composing and performers and other artistic endeavours.

ARIA Chart-topping, nine-time Golden Guitar winner Lyn Bowtell shows her indomitable strength in her new single ‘Wiser’.

The Hunter Valley artist co-wrote the song with fellow Bennett, Bowtell & Urquhart members Felicity Urquhart and Kevin Bennett, and recorded it as a duet with long-time producer Shane Nicholson .

“This is an anthem for those who understand the importance of learning from your mistakes,” Lyn said. “And that it’s usually the hardest times we go through that stimulate the most positive growth and change.”

The single is the title track from Lyn’s #1 Country ARIA Album of the same name, released in May.

“I want listeners to take away from this song the message that you’re bound to make mistakes, you’re bound to fall, and you’re bound to be tested, but as long as you’re learning from those experiences you will come through the other side, a wiser, braver and stronger human being,” she said.

Adding to the track is the distinctive voice of ‘Wiser’ album producer Shane Nicholson.

“When Lyn Bowtell writes a song, you listen to it,” Shane said.

“When Lyn Bowtell asks you to sing that song with her, you say, ‘yes’, and when that song is ‘Wiser’, then you’ve hit the bloody jackpot!”

Dave Herrera has a way of writing thought-provoking material, as demonstrated in this NEW Single “Shades,” a tale about a woman who catches a man’s eye with her dark sunglasses that aren’t used to block the sun, but as a barrier to the outside world. But once she pulls up the shades, one realizes there’s something deeper.

Herrera said “it’s not easy to meet people, more specifically a significant other, as OPENING UP is not an easy thing to do” as Herrera wrote in his lyrics “hiding your eyes won’t hide ya; cause only the sun shines brighter; fix a broken heart; if you look my way; let down your guard pull up those shades”.

Herrera wrote the track with the help of Cory Coppin and Kale Coppin co-writers and produced the track with co-producer Jeff Balding. “Shades” was recorded at WestRoc Studios.

In just three short years since their debut single release, Darlinghurst have established themselves as one of the hottest new acts in country music. They’ve notched up four x #1 Country Hot 50 airplay hits, a #1 debut ARIA Country Album and their first Golden Guitar win for New Talent of the Year 2022. Today Darlinghurst unveil their brand-new single, ‘Hangman’.

This banger sure hits the ground running; a jangly guitar opens the track, giving way to a stampede of percussion. It’s foot-stomping, southern feel instantly makes you feel like moving, while the song’s lyrics cleverly deliver a discerning message. “Not unlike a ligature to the neck that brings unconsciousness, so too, metaphorically, a toxic relationship does the same,” explains band member Cassie Leopold. “Hangman is about breaking the cycle and hanging in limbo.”

The Melbourne based 4-piece called upon Pete Dacy (Taxiride, The Androids) to co-produce the new track with Darlinghurst guitarist, Jason Resch. Recorded at Secret Sound Studios, ‘Hangman’ draws on high energy and timeless rhythms that delivers both mischief and magic.

The first single released from the band since their ARIA #1 debut album, the quartet continue to build on the signature sound they’ve become known for. Stellar melodies, relatable lyricism and exceptional vocals; their voice’s blending together in sumptuous, layered harmonies creating a fifth voice. It’s certainly been enough to turn heads and secure them 4 x #1 singles on the Country Hot 50 airplay charts, a Top 40 spot on the US Music Row Country Radio Chart and a highly coveted Golden Guitar award.

With such a great reception to their music it’s no surprise the band is touring far and wide. They’ll launch the single tonight at the revered Gympie Music Muster, before cruising up and down Australia’s east coast. They’re slated to appear at Country Rocks Festival in Bungendore, Deni Ute Muster, Savannah in The Round, Groundwater Country Music Festival and their own headline shows.

Darlinghurst are a band that just keeps churning out hit after hit. Their high energy country music has gripped audiences around the nation and resonated with their rapidly growing fanbase. ‘Hangman’ is testament to all they’ve achieved; proof that these four are truly something special.

Country singer-songwriter Jimbo Stokes has stepped out of the corporate world and onto the stage with debut single, “Atlas”.

Born and raised on a sheep and cattle station near Tamworth, Jimbo returned to the Hunter New England region at the beginning of the 2022 after many years working, studying and playing rugby in Sydney. Despite holding a Bachelor of Commerce and Master of Economics from Sydney University, Jimbo is now a full-time creative, balancing his time between music and visual arts and has also strapped on the boots to play for his local rugby club, the Scone Brumbies.

Jimbo wrote the song in covid times then teamed up with award-winning producer and multi-instrumentalist, Rod McCormack. “Atlas” is a raw and honest tribute to Jimbo’s mum, Dr Bronwyn Stokes OAM, a hard-working regional GP.

Dr Stokes OAM was a beloved family practice GP in the Tamworth and Merriwa regions, who was awarded an Order of Australia Medal for her services to regional medicine, in the field of nutrition.

“I think Atlas is a good metaphor to describe mum; someone who held so much on her shoulders but was selfless and had immense courage all the way to the end,” Jimbo said.

The song tells the story of Jimbo’s time living in the city and dealing with the loss of his mother while trying to stay on track in the present, juggling memories of the past whilst dealing with the day-to-day grind of the corporate world.

To bring the single video to life, Jimbo worked with Southern Highlands-based videographer Steph Hunter. “I knew Steph was great at capturing people and stories so I was confident she’d be the perfect collaborator,” he said.

Country hasn’t always been Jimbo’s musical home, having trained as an operatic tenor under Christine Douglas (Director/Founder – Pacific Opera), but he returned to his first love during COVID-19 times.

‘Momentary Thing’ is an upbeat, country tune about giving that one person a shot after being so hesitant, and it turning into the real deal, more than just a fling.

Born and bred in Bellangry, New South Wales, above the New South Wales Mid North Coast, Hannah Lee was raised surrounded by nature reserves and spectacular mountain views.

Having begun performing and songwriting at the age of 12, Hannah has been a regular at the Tamworth Country Music Festival and Gympie Muster.

Hannah’s debut single, ‘Just Look Back’, reached #3 on the iTunes Country Song Chart. The self-directed and produced music video was featured regularly on CMT, with the song giving Hannah a loyal following of country loving fans eagerly waiting her next instalment.

Multi-Platinum MCA Nashville hitmaker Jordan Davis continues to rack up streams and engage his fans with his latest music. The chart-topping entertainer’s last single, “What My World Spins Around,” has garnered more than 50 MILLION streams since hitting country radio airwaves in June. Written by Davis, Matt Dragstrem and Ryan Hurd and produced by Paul DiGiovanni, Davis performed the hit on NBC’s TODAY this week.

Davis has shared his new track “Next Thing You Know” as a continuation of releases from his highly anticipated upcoming album. Written by Davis, Chase McGill, Josh Osborne, and Greylan James, “Next Thing You Know” is available everywhere.

“Next Thing You Know” follows his previous single “What My World Spins Around” and is the latest glimpse at new music from Davis, who, with his single “Buy Dirt” (feat. Luke Bryan), amassed more than 626 MILLION global streams. “Buy Dirt” tallied multiple awards nominations as a finalist for Top Country Song at the 2022 Billboard Music Awards, nominated for Musical Event of the Year at the 55th CMA Awards, and for Music Event, Single, and Song of the Year at the 57th ACM Awards. Davis delivered high-profile performances of the song on both The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and The Ellen DeGeneres Show .

In addition to releasing new music, Davis is set to headline back-to-back nights at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium this fall (9/27 and 9/28) for the first time, and will join Luke Combs as direct support on The Middle of Somewhere Tour through December. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit jordandavisofficial.com/tou

‘Butterfly’ is a country pop crossover song, that shares a message of strength, transformation and inspiration, and tells a unique story by Kiera, of self-love and growth from within. This release is Kiera’s comeback, after her 2019 release ‘Speak Up’, and is a honest reflection of Kiera’s current creative artistry. ‘Butterfly’ was inspired through Kiera’s personal healing journey and her soul’s purpose of becoming a Holistic Healer.

Kiera is an Australian born creative soul who is fulfilling her dreams and soul purpose as a Holistic Integrated Creative Arts Therapist, creating music, art, and memories with other souls, and using her stories and tools to help others find happiness, wellness and healing.

Born into a musical and creative family, naturally Kiera started her creative career at the tender age of three. Growing up, Kiera spent a lot of her childhood on the road, travelling around country Victoria, NSW and South Australia to perform at country music festivals. When not on stage performing, Kiera would be in her creative corner using her imagination, making art out of whatever tools she could find. It’s here she learnt to talk and communicate, through music and art.

When Kiera finished school, she worked in a high school in her local town of Mildura, where she taught vocal and guitar lessons to student’s full time. At 20, Kiera embarked on her acoustic solo music career, on the road every week playing in venues in rural areas such as Broken Hill, York Peninsula, country Victoria and South Australia.

Kiera became passionate about the healing benefits of art and music through her own personal journey and experiences of mental health and awareness. This led Kiera to study Arts Therapy, and she now has a Diploma in Holistic Integrated Creative Arts Therapy. She is passionately dedicated to living her soul’s purpose as a healer. Being the founder of KN creations, Kiera adores her community and giving back to them.

Sara Berki has today released her second single, “Good Enough”, an up-vibe slice of throwback country which takes elements of classic country, presented through a modern lens. The track is the follow-up to Sara’s breakout debut single, “Falling Off the Heartline”, which was released earlier this year.

The Bowral based singer-songwriter made an impressive debut with “Falling off the Heartline”, which received major playlisting and radio airplay support – not an easy feat for a heartbreak ballad, produced entirely with organic instruments and true country grit.

Both tracks were written by Sara and are reminiscent of breakthrough singer-songwriters of recent years, such as Kacey Musgraves, Hayley Whitters and Ingrid Andress. Both songs are part of a five song EP to be released in October which was produced by Simon Johnson (Troy Cassar-Daley) and mastered by Grammy Award winner, William Bowden (Gotye).

Sara commented on the song, “Good Enough was one of those songs that felt so organic, so easy and it was a pleasure to write it. The story of the song is about when that one person comes along and accepts and loves you unconditionally for everything you are, almost questioning “Why did you ever put up with anything less than you’re worth?”. Which is the love that was “just good enough”. Musically, it’s playful, hoppy and sweet. I wanted people to feel what I felt about this song and I can only be hopeful that they will”.

In addition to showing extraordinary songwriting promise, Sara is also lighting up audiences with her live performances. Sara was one of the highlight artists at the 2022 Toyota Tamworth Country Music Festival, with her honest and engaging presence creating a buzz around the industry.

With an EP to follow in October and more music in works, this is just the beginning for Sara Berki.

When James Johnston released his debut single ‘RAISED LIKE THAT’ in the winter of ’21 it smashed all expectations – reached #1 on the CountryTown Hot 50 airplay chart, racked up 14 million streams to date and highlighted Johnston as one to watch in country music. Recently, Johnston has been breaking records by becoming the first independent country music artist in over 21 years to have a single certified Gold by ARIA. Every track that’s followed has been a hit for Johnston. His latest single, ‘SAME SONGS’ featuring Kaylee Bell hits airwaves today and is sure to blaze the same trail.

‘SAME SONGS’ is an anthemic ode to the songs that shaped a generation. “These are the soundtracks to the stories of my life,” echo’s Johnston’s gritty vocal in the first verse. Known for his strong relationship with his fans, it was them who decided Kaylee Bell should be his co-star in this nostalgic epic. “Grown from a single Tiktok video, SAME SONGS is my first collaboration. When I reached out to fans on who they’d like to see me collaborate with I was inundated with requests to partner up with Kaylee.”

The New Zealand-born singer/songwriter even wrote her own verse for the tune, tipping her hat to country legend Dolly Parton as well as pop queens Beyoncé and Britney Spears. Similar to Johnston, Bell has been kicking career goals lately. She’s already the most streamed female country artist in Australasia – a mantle she’s held for the last 4 years – and now after performing her original song ‘Keith’ to coach Keith Urban on The Voice Australia, the song has become a global hit.

When it came to producing ‘SAME SONGS’, the two singers were on opposite ends of the globe. Collaborating once again with long-time friend and producer Justin Wantz, Johnston recorded his vocals in Sydney whilst Bell recorded hers in Nashville.

Since its release to streaming platforms in July, ‘SAME SONGS’ has already received over 645k streams in a matter of weeks. It’s the kind of success the country boy from Wingham has become known for. After his unstoppable debut, his follow up, ‘SMALL TOWN’, flew to #1 on the CountryTown Hot 50 airplay chart, where it roosted for 10 consecutive weeks. His most recent single, ‘COUNTRY BOYS’, has enjoyed several weeks dancing around the top ten – and claiming the #1 spot – with Bell’s ‘Keith’, which also recently peaked at #1.

After graduating high school over a decade ago, Johnston took a year to ‘give music a crack’.

He bought a van and set out on the great Australian road trip, playing in every little town and pub he could find. Not much has changed years later, however he’s traded the sticky pub floor for the bright lights of some of Australia’s largest festivals. August will see him at Mount Isa Mines Rodeo, NQ’s Rock’n Country in Mackay, as well as the beloved Gympie Music Muster. He’s also slated to perform at the Baralaba Bash, Savannah in The Round and the titanic, CMC Rocks in 2022.

Home is where the heart is for James Johnston, and he wears his heart on his sleeve. Cliché as that may sound, the singer/songwriter has built an impressive career with a swag of songs that celebrate life in Australia. Thumping anthems dipped in nostalgia has been the secret formula for this rising star, yet its success lies in its authenticity. James Johnston is the real deal. His latest, ‘SAME SONGS’, is yet another feather in his cap – a rousing collaboration between two artists at the top of their game.

Drunk on … Life, love, hope, dreams, country music? Find your bliss! Donna Fisk is drunk on the glorious experience of recording and working with the amazing live musicians and sensational producer Robert Angello, in Nashville, Tennessee, USA for her brand-new sing ‘Drunk On That’. It’s a party song.

“My interpretation of the lyric is to be intoxicated by possibilities” says Donna. “I produced a sunny video for the song as well and I think it brings the idea together. Happy listening!”.

Donna Fisk is an award winning singer, songwriter, producer and Royal Command Performer with several number one chart topping hit recordings and the honour of being immortalised in the Australian Country Music Hands of Fame.

Woven into the narrative of Australian country music, it’s a family tradition akin to the Dusty, Kernaghan and Chambers clans, with father Gene Bradley Fisk being a pioneer artist of the outlaw country genre, and radio personality inducted into the Broadcasters Hall of Fame.

Donna features in many music publications including Andrea Lemon’s book ‘Rodeo Girls Go Round The Outside’, exploring modern day female trailblazers for Australian country music. Touring her own show as well as performing and recording overseas, incorporating appearances on local and international media, the country music star is the voice on many national advertising campaigns including being assigned to perform for the Australian Government campaign song, ‘Building On A Strong Foundation’ as the anthem for The Australian Centenary Of Federation.

During her career Donna has shared the stage with acclaimed artists such as John Denver, Donny Osmond, Dame Edna Everage, Tom .T. Hall, Canned Heat, Muhummad Ali, Brian Cadd, Susan Raye, James Morrison, Tommy Emmanuel, Dave Dudley, Blood Sweat and Tears, and The Seekers.

Donna Fisk’s forthcoming new album, recorded in Nashville with accomplished producer Robert Angello at the helm (Chet Atkins, Suzy Bogguss, Jo Dee Messina, Steve Wariner, Tanya Tucker, Garth Brooks), will be released in 2022.

Leaving Lennox have released their brand-new single, ‘Not Hurting’ , an empowering anthem for anyone who is on the backend of a toxic relationship. The country-pop song was written and produced by the pair and features the acclaimed Aaron Sterling on drums and Eric Fortaleza on bass.

Australian pop-country duo, Leaving Lennox (Lauren Valatiadis and Michael Hambly) made the move to Nashville in April of 2019 and have been paving their way since.

In early 2022, the pair were featured as rising artists on Season 3 of The Song, alongside acclaimed songwriters, Rob Thomas, Melissa Etheridge, Kenny Loggins, Sarah McLachlan, Gary Allan, Brian McKnight and Amy Grant.

Their US Summer shows have included Bonnaroo, NASCAR and NSC’s Nashville Soccer Stadium with Gibson guitars.

Leaving Lennox’ release ‘Not Ready (To Leave Just Yet)’, saw Spotify streams reach over 250K and featured the acclaimed instrumentation of Aaron Sterling (touring drummer – John Mayer), David Levita (touring guitarist – Tim McGraw) and Eric Fortaleza, (touring bassist – Lindsay Ell). ‘Not Ready’ charted at #16 on the Australian Country Charts, while also gaining Leaving Lennox their television debut on CMT.

Combining pop-country with haunting harmonies, soulful guitar work and live-looping, the award-winning duo have performed alongside the likes of Lady A, Brothers Osborne, Lindsay Ell, Eddie Montgomery and Tanya Tucker.

The duos musicianship, unique vocal blend, and storytelling, are influenced by the harmony of Fleetwood Mac, rawness of The Civil Wars, storytelling of Willie Nelson, and guitar work of John Mayer.

Contemporary country music singer-songwriter Bella Mackenzie releases her new single “1,2,3 You and Me” to radio and streaming services. Produced by multi Golden Guitar Winner Rod McCormack, the song was co-written with Bryce Sainty and is part of the prize package for the inaugural ‘KIX Start Rising Star Competition’.

With a fun storyline and electric atmosphere, “1,2,3 You and Me” is an up tempo, contemporary country song that is bound to make you sing along. Inspired by the sounds of old school Jackson 5 to contemporary Dan + Shay with a hint of 90’s Country, this song has something for everyone.

“Inspired by some of my favourite things living in the country, pickup trucks around a fire, country music blaring and that one crush that you can’t help but want to talk to, that is the story of 1,2,3 – You and Me”

As an ambassador for respected brands such as Wrangler, Bullzeye and Pure Western, Bella has the support of country music’s new breed of talent with opening spots and recent songwrites with Brad Cox, James Johnston and Melanie Dyer.

Bella was also the winner of KIX COUNTRY’s KIXSTART 2021 competition where she was given the opportunity to have her new single produced by the amazing Rod McCormack. In addition to this, Bella received mentorship from Gina Jefferys. Bella says, “KIXSTART was such an honor for me and boosted my career from the second I won. The support from KIX Country and everyone else involved has been so amazing and I could never have imagined a year ago that I would have accomplished some of what I have today”.

“1,2,3 You and Me” follows Bella’s hit singles “Miss You No More”, “Aint For You” and “Make Me Want Love”.

Multi-Platinum Country music star Dierks Bentley today releases “Gold,” a single about gratitude, presence and the treasures to be found in the moment that you are in. The bright and banging record sets the stage for Bentley’s tenth LP, arriving early next year after an especially careful production process, one helmed by the artist himself for the first time. To listen, click here.

“2020 was a chance for me to give my guitar and the road a little rest. It gave me the chance to spend a lot more time adventuring outdoors with family and friends, but also alone. It also gave me time to reset and rekindle my love of Country music and a lot of the types of songs and sounds that I fell in love with when I first got to Nashville,” explains Bentley. “I think you’ll hear that in this first track, but it carries across the whole album.”

While he’s long been a Music Row standout for devotion to his roots in classic Country and bluegrass, Bentley has never been so free to infuse his passions into music destined for the competitive commercial Country arena. Working with trusted collaborators Ross Copperman, Reid Shippen and Jon Randall Stewart, he led an effort that mashes up several Nashville golden ages as well as homage to the Grand Ole Opry’s century of influence.

That 10th album landmark speaks to how time has flown in Bentley’s unique, 21st-century career. He landed his first publishing deal in 2001 and released his debut album in 2003, producing an instant #1 country radio single. The years since have revealed a rare consistency that’s fueled longevity – eight more albums that reached the top of the Country sales charts, resulting in 21 No. One songs, 6.4 billion streams, three CMA Awards, 14 GRAMMY® nominations and membership into the Grand Ole Opry. Trendy sounds have ebbed and flowed around him over these two decades, but fans have relied on Bentley for something more nourishing and individual. The new single “Gold” promises a landmark album that will build on that enviable legacy.