ZFM Country

Embracing ’90’s country vibes and a strong positive message, Mel Lukin has launched into the year in a stellar fashion with ‘One Way Ticket’ out on January 27.

With nearly two years between releases, the Gold Coast singer-songwriter is coming out strong with a year of new music ahead.

“I’m always conscious about what I want to write about and I’ve been going through a period of writing with people and formulating ideas for songs and, within that process, I came across a writer in Nashville who had a catalogue of songs and this song jumped out at me,” Mel said.

“I wanted to do an up-tempo song and I loved the message in ‘One Way Ticket’ because I’m very specific about what I wanted to sing about because of where I’m at in life and I want to encourage my two daughters to chase their passions.”

Major influences including Martina McBride shine through Mel’s delivery of this song with its strong message of living life to the full, driving beat and country feel with dobro and electric guitar blending seamlessly.

“Country has always been part of what I listened to with Faith Hill, LeAnn Rimes and Martina McBride major influences and my mum loves Shania Twain, so I love 1990’s country,” Mel said.

“I released my first EP in 1999 and a lot of those songs are country-influenced and, in recent years, country music has really felt like home for me.”

Mel said she wanted to launch into 2023 with the message in ‘One Way Ticket’ to encourage all her listeners to get out and live life.

“It’s so important to show the kids that anytime and at any age, you can reignite your passion and I want to release my own music, recording and releasing an album worth of songs over the next couple of years,” she said.

“I want to release an album that I’m proud of and do small tours on my own, as well as play as many stages on festivals as I can, and open for some amazing acts.”

Mel also has causes that are close to her heart and wants to use her music to support those in years to come.

Lyn Bowtell’s latest single from her ARIA Country #1 Album ‘Wiser’ is ‘Looking For Nobody’, released January 6th.

This tongue-in-cheek song uses a play on words to describe looking for someone who’ll love and support you, even when you’re feeling low.

The title came to Lyn upon leaving the show after her third round on season six of ‘The Voice’, and the ideas behind the song brewed for a year or two before she finished it.

With a fun, light-hearted upbeat feel, and quirky production from Shane Nicholson, ‘Looking For Nobody’ is the perfect addition to any summer playlist.

“I love how the production has captured the cheekiness in the lyrics of the song and it’s so much fun to perform live,” Lyn said. “Live audiences love to sing it along with me so I’m really looking forward to hearing the response from radio listeners.”

Get all the summer feels and get ready to sing along to the latest fun masterpiece from the nine-time Golden Guitar winner and three-time 2023 Golden Guitar nominee.

‘Looking For Nobody’ is due for release the week before Lyn takes to stages across the Country Music Capital and throughout the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

GRAMMY® AWARD-WINNING ICON SHANIA TWAIN RELEASES NEW SINGLE “GIDDY UP!” – WATCH VIDEO HERE

EAGERLY AWAITED NEW ALBUM QUEEN OF ME OUT FEBRUARY 3

“QUEEN OF ME” GLOBAL TOUR LAUNCHES THIS SPRING

Strutting into 2023, five-time GRAMMY® Award-winning legend and the best-selling female artist in country music history Shania Twain shares a brand-new single entitled “Giddy Up!” today.

The track sets the stage for her eagerly awaited new album, Queen of Me, arriving on February 3, 2023. It notably stands out as her sixth original full-length offering, first record since 2017, and official debut for her new label partner Republic Nashville, a division of Republic Records.

Kickstarting the record, “Giddy Up!” rides out of the gate with a fiery, flirty, and fun chorus tailormade for singing and dancing along. As always, it showcases her show-stopping range and undeniable charisma.

Shania says, the saying “Let’s Go Girls!” is such a wonderfully uplifting sentiment now, but it’s just something I said during the recording in the studio and I guess that’s the same for Giddy Up! These lines come to me when I’m thinking about how to put a little “pep in my step”. I want people to feel good when they hear the new album. I want to set a celebratory tone and “Giddy up!” Is a way to call to the audience and say “let’s get ready for some fun!”

In other big news, Shania recently earned the “Music Icon” award at the 2022 People’s Choice Awards, and she lit up the stage with a rapturous performance – watch HERE.

Queen of Me consists of 12 new tracks. From the energetic opener “Giddy Up!” through the empowered title track “Queen of Me” and passionate finale “The Hardest Stone,” produced by and featuring Tyler Joseph/Twenty One Pilots, the LP represents a deep and dynamic creative statement from this iconic voice. She set the stage for everything with the single “Waking Up Dreaming” which Rolling Stone called “a shot of caffeinated bliss” and The Today Show called “an absolute bop.”

Shania was also announced as a headliner for Rock the Ocean’s Tortuga Festival, alongside Eric Church and Kenny Chesney. The star-studded festival will take place on April 14-16, 2023 in Fort Lauderdale, FL. For more information, go HERE .

To celebrate this next era in style, she will also embark on a global Queen of Me Tour, produced by Live Nation. The tour marks the first time fans around the world will get to see the queen in all of her glory in nearly five years, following a highly successful Vegas residency run. Kelsea Ballerini, Lindsay Ell, Hailey Whitters, Breland, Robyn Ottolini, Priscilla Block, and Mickey Guyton, Lily Rose, Talk, and Tinelle Townes will be joining Shania on select dates throughout the tour.

The Queen of Me Tour kicks off on Friday, April 28th at Spokane Arena in Spokane, WA and makes stops across North America and Europe in Vancouver, Denver, Toronto, Los Angeles, New York, London, Dublin and more before wrapping up on November 14th at Rogers Arena in Vancouver, BC.

Additionally, Shania and Live Nation have announced that $1 of every ticket purchased to Shania’s “Queen Of Me” Tour will be donated to SKC. Established in 2010 by Shania Twain, SKC provides services that promote positive change in children’s lives in times of crises and economic hardship. SKC provides children with one-on-one consultations, academic support and group activities, as well as nutritious snacks and meal programs where needed, all while in the safe, confidence-building environment that is the Shania Kids Can Clubhouse. These children are learning the skills to cope with and overcome family hardships which, in turn, improves their ability to succeed in school. For more information about Shania Kids Can, please visit: www.shaniakidscan.com

In the lead-up to their debut album together, Sara and Greg Storer, celebrate those who have an innate connection to engines with their single, ‘Machinery Man’.

The blending of family talents can be seen throughout musical history and Storer is the collaboration of siblings Sara and Greg as well as Greg’s daughters, Pip and Bonnie on backing vocals and is a winning combination.

With an ARIA for Best Country Album and 21 Golden Guitar Awards, Sara is celebrated as one of Australia’s greatest singer songwriters.

“You know she’s paid attention, heard the bush waking up in the morning, listened to the worries thrashed out at the kitchen table, smelt dry summer wheat up close, dreamed of faraway places in a bedroom with a window on a big sky, driven miles on dirt and bitumen and fallen in and out of love” – Paul Kelly on Sara Storer.

When Sara’s brother Greg isn’t co-writing hits, he is working his property near Warren in NSW as a farmer, but is no stranger to songwriting and has co-written and performed with his sister since 2005 when they released ‘Chillers Bend’, their first duet.

“Greg knows and understands, and has a rare talent for conveying humour, pathos, love, and fear through his music” – Music journalist Susan Jarvis on Greg Storer.

‘Machinery Man’, released on January 6, is the second single from Golden Guitar and ARIA Award winners’ debut album self-titled album, ‘Storer’, out on January 13.

“A song for our machinery men and women – the ones that seem to fix anything with just a spanner, whereas we’d have to use the whole toolbox!” Sara and Greg said.

“They’ll get you out of all sorts of trouble and are very handy to know. Thank God someone put a spanner in Bill’s hand!”

This track is the follow-on from their hit single ‘Show Me’.

‘Machinery Man’ tells the story of a boy who has been obsessed with machines since he was young, and grows into a man who has sump oil on his hands and diesel running through his veins.

He continues his love of machinery throughout his life, heading off to learn more as a teenager and young man, and then off across Australia working on engines and machinery throughout his life.

This is a tribute to all those men and women who work with their hands and have an innate talent with engines.

Toyota Star Maker Grand Finalist Kiara Rodrigues heads into the competition with a shiny new country heartbreak drinking single, released January 6.

Written with Nashville-based Aussie expat, Katrina Burgoyne at The CMAA Academy of Country Music senior course, ‘Message In A Bottle’ is a song about heartbreak, drinking and self-sabotage.

“It was a song I’d half started and kept in the cupboard but not really looked at, and when I found out who my co-writing partner would be, I knew exactly which song I wanted to work on with Katrina,” Kiara said.

“Any good country heartbreak song involves drinking, but one wine and I’m asleep, so I’ve used plenty of creative licence in this song. It’s about knowing that there’s a whole lot ahead of you in terms of the healing process, but tonight you’re relying on that bottle of wine.”

Kiara said everyone had their own coping mechanisms and felt this song would resonate with plenty of listeners. “Whether you’re a drinker or not a drinker; we’ve all had that heartbreak,” she said.

The song’s country flavour is boosted by production from Nash Chambers, another expat now living and working in Nashville. “Nash’s production style was something I really resonated well with,” Kiara said. “He’s got a keen eye and ear for what sounds good and the vocals were recorded with Liam Kennedy-Clark in Maitland. I’m incredibly honoured to be working with Nash because he’s produced some of my favourite records that I grew up listening to.

“It’s exciting to be releasing this single before Toyota Star Maker and being able to showcase the single in the competition.” This is the first time the Sydney singer-songwriter has been named among the top 10 entrants in the prestigious and long-running country music talent search.

“This is something I’ve dreamed of since I first started country music in 2005,” she said. “To have those dreams of being in the top 10 realised, on the day I found out, I was in a complete state of shock – a very excited shock.”

Whether she is successful in Star Maker or not, Kiara plans to “run with it”. “I’ve got a whole heap of other songs I’ve written would love to turn into an EP and if I won, the trip to Nashville would bring about amazing co-writing opportunities,” she said.

“I would love to have a run of shows across the east coast in all the states I’ve lived in and to have that lovely Rav 4 to do it all in would be amazing. The Toyota Star Maker prize would be a great way of facilitating all those hopes and dreams.”

Coming back to the Tamworth Country Music Festival is also a reminder of how far Kiara has come in her career. “Missing the festival really drove home how much the Tamworth Country Music Festival is part of my identity,” she said.

“I’ve been coming since I was nine years old. It feels like coming home with I’m at the Tamworth festival. It’s also a good reminder of the experiences and memories I’ve made being part of the Australian country music industry”.

Sunday Chapel was written and produced by Dave Herrera and is a story about how the Chapel is the rock for his family and the community through thick and thin, baptisms, weddings and funerals, the Chapel will always be there even at the end and generations thereafter.

Herrera said “we all need a rock and a place to support us during the good and bad times”

Herrera wrote the track with the help of Cory Coppin, Kale Coppin co-writers and Dave Herrera produced the track.

Herrera continues to put his spin on Country music as he combines heavy drum beats, electric guitars, dobro, bass and the storytelling of country music with his new music.

Along with his singles, Herrera takes pride in creating music videos that are entertaining for all ages. The music video for “Visiting Nashville” now has 440K+ views and rising. You can check out several of his music videos on YouTube which include Hella Country, Hollywood Sign, My First 69, Shades, Hollywood Sign, Boys were Back Intown and an unofficial and unmixed version of the video for Hell of a Holiday.

Herrera is currently in the studio and will embark on live shows in 2023.

Herrera is continuing to work on more music, coming soon!

Since the release of his debut Single ‘Run’ in June 2022 Duncan Toombs has made the front of the stage his new home. Wowing audiences all over Australia whilst touring with Beccy Cole & Adam Harvey for the last 5 months, the spotlights are finally revealing to fans and fellow artists the talents that Duncan has been hiding for some time. With streaming for his 2 singles now approaching the 300K mark, this highly awarded filmmaker and sought-after guitarist to the stars (Kasey Chambers, Adam Brand, Lee Kernaghan, Beccy Cole, Adam Harvey, Adam Eckersley Band), is set to back it all up with a brand-new single named

‘A Gift’.

‘A Gift’ is a beautifully woven ballad that showcases Duncan’s warm heartfelt vocals.

It’s gently spoken lyrics are relatable to us all and reflect on life, love, family and this beautiful planet that we all share. Duncan shared some of his thoughts about writing the song.

” I wrote a gift when the world stopped during covid 19. I had a lot of time to reflect on different things as did a lot of my friends in the music industry. During the lockdowns I remember feeling grateful for everything my journey in music had given to me. I often try to be consciously grateful for my family, friends and opportunities the universe has blessed me with, but the Lockdowns really brought these thoughts and emotions to the surface. I truly think Life here on earth is a gift.”

DUNCAN TOOMBS

‘A Gift’ was recorded at The Music Cellar (Central Coast, NSW) with an all-star band handpicked by Duncan and his co-producers, Scott Bird and Rod McCormack. It has proven to be a favourite amongst the few who have been able to hear Duncan’s pre released Album.

Duncan has our industry on the edge of it’s seat, waiting to hear his debut album ‘Steel On Steel’. With songs like ‘A Gift’ …Duncan keeps setting a high bar for contemporary Country music here in Australia.

Duncan’s long-time industry friends have been showing a lot of support.

“There is a warmth that washes through you when Duncan Toombs takes the spotlight. His voice is powerful and rich and you get a sense of his beautiful heart when he delivers his honest lyrics. His songs feel like home. Whether he’s tearing apart a guitar solo or moving a crowd with his vocal performance, Duncan is a show stopper. He’s been 6ft from stardom too long, I’m delighted to see him stepping into the middle. I could be his biggest fan.”

Beccy Cole

“I’ve always loved Duncan Toombs’ voice and I’m so glad that he has finally stepped out of the background and into the spotlight,” says Adam Harvey.

Bill Chambers says “Duncan is the essence of true country music that is so rare these days”

Kasey Chambers commented, “Duncan Toombs has one of the most authentic modern country sounds you’ll hear.”

Much loved, country music queen, Gina Jeffreys, goes further and says “rich, beautiful, heartfelt vocals with an undeniably refreshing return to traditional country sounds. I absolutely love Duncan’s voice, and this will be one song that gets high rotation in our house!”

`Driving Me Insane’ is the latest single from Robert Ross. It centres around a relationship and love story where the man is giving all his love, but the lady is trapped in memories of a failed relationship and not letting go of all of the negatives. The more love he gives, the more she pushes away. The fear and trust issues keep coming back to haunt her and strain their relationship. Because his love for her is so strong, he is not willing to give up, even though it is very trying and taxing on him, so much so that he feels like it is driving him insane. He feels he has to get away but his love for her is so strong he comes back.

Singer songwriter Robert Ross was born in New Brunswick, Canada. He moved to Australia in 2009 and became an Australian Citizen in 2014.

Robert has become immensely popular in the Cairns region while performing live for many audiences over the years. He has also entertained throughout Australia, and internationally in Nashville, USA and Canada.

Robert’s style is influenced by country greats Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Randy Travis and other country artists such as Sawyer Brown, as well as good ole Rock n’ Roll. He says “My music comes from life. The good, the bad and the hilarious! This is where we all have something in common”. A fan once told him, “You know who you are; you sing from the inside out. That is your soul talking with your music”.

Ghostly Gums Walking away CMAA Golden Guitar
nominated Bush Ballad of the year

Nominated for Bush Ballad of the year by the CMAA at the 2023 golden Guitar Awards
Winner of “Most Promising New Talent 2022” at the People’s Choice Awards

Winner of “Most Popular New Male Artist of 2021” by Independent Country Music Association

Winner of 3 “Purple Guitars”

Winner of “Australian Busking Championships 2019 – Gundagai”

11 Top 20 singles on the “Country Songs Top 40 Australian Airplay charts” (including 4 Number One singles “Before I Go”, “1993” and “Fallen Snow” and “Fireflies”).

“1993” spent 16 weeks on the Australian Country Top 40 Charts.

Love, Lies & Dirty Dishes Debuted at #3 on the ARIA country Album charts
2 top 5 Albums on the Official iTunes Country Album Charts, Love, Lies & DirtyDishes Debuting at #2.

Andy Shows his diversity with a more traditional style after a Stella few years, 5 #1 singles, a #3 album on the Australian Country ARIA Charts with Love, Lies & Dirty Dishes.

I was given these amazing lyrics from Kath Stewart and I wanted to pay tribute to the traditional style the way they were written. I composed 2 versions of the song. This version was produced by Lindsay Waddington who I thought of right away, I wanted a producer that understood bush ballads.

Chatting with Lindsay about how inspired I was after watching “Slim and I asked Lindsay how Slim would approach a song like this. It was a tribute to a legend.

It was written for the farmers who have struggled, and are still struggling. They are the backbone of this great nation. And we often forget that

A real farmer’s daughter born in the “land of the living skies” of the Canadian prairies, Jordyn Pollard has been inspired by BIG things her whole life – so it’s no surprise that she recorded this song written by BIG GRAMMY winning songwriters, Emily Weisband, Laura Veltz, Madison Marlowe and Taylor Dye (of Maddie and Tae).

“Love Letter” perfectly captures Jordyn’s loveable, quirky personality and innocent pop sound that has had her compared to artists like Kelsea Ballerini, Shania, and Taylor Swift.

Over 500 downloads since last year and 2 out 3 stations who stream it have added or downloaded for consideration!

The Sydney Morning Herald ranked Christmas Cafe at the # 3 spot for their Ultimate Holiday Playlist enjoying the stellar lineup with the likes of Brett Eldredge, Nora Jones, Kelly Clarkson, LOLO, and Amanda Shires. Here’s what they had to say ” What’s not to love about a Colorado Fireman recalling a romantic roadhouse rendezous over an acoustic guitar shuffle? Tim Champlin is Interstate Cowboy talk-singing a snowed-in Christmas Eve when ” I had to park my rig and wait/It was like a skatin’ rink out there”. The thing with the waitress wasn’t love/ it was the next best thing”. He says he slept on the couch and we believe him.” Tim recently shared the stage with Lily Rose and Frank Ray at the Infamous “Country Jam” in western Colorado. Tim has also penned several songs with legendary Hall of Fame Songwriter Dean Dillon.

Ghostly Gums Walking away CMAA Golden Guitar
nominated Bush Ballad of the year

Nominated for Bush Ballad of the year by the CMAA at the 2023 golden Guitar Awards
Winner of “Most Promising New Talent 2022” at the People’s Choice Awards

Winner of “Most Popular New Male Artist of 2021” by Independent Country Music Association

Winner of 3 “Purple Guitars”

Winner of “Australian Busking Championships 2019 – Gundagai”

11 Top 20 singles on the “Country Songs Top 40 Australian Airplay charts” (including 4 Number One singles “Before I Go”, “1993” and “Fallen Snow” and “Fireflies”).

“1993” spent 16 weeks on the Australian Country Top 40 Charts.

Love, Lies & Dirty Dishes Debuted at #3 on the ARIA country Album charts
2 top 5 Albums on the Official iTunes Country Album Charts, Love, Lies & DirtyDishes Debuting at #2.

Andy Shows his diversity with a more traditional style after a Stella few years, 5 #1 singles, a #3 album on the Australian Country ARIA Charts with Love, Lies & Dirty Dishes.

I was given these amazing lyrics from Kath Stewart and I wanted to pay tribute to the traditional style the way they were written. I composed 2 versions of the song. This version was produced by Lindsay Waddington who I thought of right away, I wanted a producer that understood bush ballads.

Chatting with Lindsay about how inspired I was after watching “Slim and I asked Lindsay how Slim would approach a song like this. It was a tribute to a legend.

It was written for the farmers who have struggled, and are still struggling. They are the backbone of this great nation. And we often forget that

“I just love the song. It’s an earworm, and brings back memories from my childhood. Dad loved music and we would go down to the local hot food takeaway shop which had a jukebox. He would give us some money to put songs on, as long as we put on ‘Slipping Away’ for him. We have been playing the track at shows for a couple of years and the crowds love to sing along”. – Ross Webb.

Ross’s latest single ‘Slipping Away’ is a trip down memory lane to the 70’s. Ross and his band have put their own mark on this Australian classic and it’s sure to get you singing along.

Ross has been performing country music for over nine years. Influenced by performers such as Zac Brown, Chris Stapleton, Alan Jackson, he has been experimenting with his sound in recent releases.

The latest single follows his previous releases, ‘One Of A Kind’ and ‘I Was Only 19’. Now with a full band, he has been performing and fine tuning his show around the highlands, and Southern NSW, along with juggling his day job as an Account Manager for Grant Broadcasters.

His journey into the music industry has only just begun, and we can’t wait to see where the ride takes him and his music.

‘Faultline’ is a country rock song with gritty guitar riffs that gets you hooked after the first five seconds. The brand new track from Hannah Lee is about getting confident walking the very fine line of having a good time, and talking it too far … You don’t know why you do it, but you do.

Hannah is a country singer/songwriter with an authenticity, strength, and power in her voice that is a stark contrast from her ever-smiling, positive, country girl nature. Hailing from the picturesque valley of Bellangry, NSW, Hannah grew up listening to her parents record collection including Garth Brooks, Jimmy Barnes, AC/DC and Carrie Underwood. This broad and diverse range of genres and voices contributed to her unique sound, providing her with the ability to belt out rocking country classics, all the way through to retelling heartbreaks with just her and her guitar.

Hannah has had quite the year in 2022, opening for Catherine Britt, as well as travelling throughout the Mid North Coast performing her own music. She has just finished recording her debut EP, with every song written solely by herself.

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.

Previous single, ‘Momentary Thing’, went straight to number #1 on the iTunes Country Song Chart, as well as continued to appear in the top 10 most downloaded country tracks for radio airplay via PlayMPE.

Hannah Lee, with her unique ability to both break hearts, and get the crowd on their feet through her lyrics, melodies and vocals, is more than equipped and ready to make her mark on the Australian country music scene.

The brand new single from Brooke Harvey, ‘Southern Sky’, tells the story of a young Australian soldier who is sadly killed in action whilst fighting in Vietnam, leaving behind his young pregnant wife. The song is told from the perspective of the young soldier, who’s remains are yet to be uncovered and returned home to Australian soil, and to the wife he left behind.

Hailing from Bulahdelah, a small country town on the Mid North Coast of NSW, it was on the long trips to and from the city that Brooke developed a genuine fascination for music. On high rotation were the songs from some of her earliest musical influences, Dolly Parton, Emmylou Harris, Linda Ronstadt, and Patsy Cline.

At just three years of age, Brooke began to serenade her parents from the back seat of the car. It was at the age of eight that Brooke strummed her very first chord on the guitar. Not long after, she began writing songs of her own.

Throughout her early teenage years, Brooke went on to perform in various local festivals and cafes in the Newcastle and Hunter Region. Her song ‘Shiny Car’ was selected to feature on the Smokestack Compilation CD which resulted in frequent airtime across Australian radio, including ABC.

At 14, Brooke was ‘Unearthed’ by Triple J. She performed live to air on Triple J from Newcastle’s Civic Park as part of the Unearthed program. Since then, Brooke has continued to fine-tune her musical talents, performing in pubs and clubs along the Mid North Coast of Australia.

Brooke has supported artists such as Kasey Chambers, Shane Nicholson, Fred Eaglesmith, Jim Lauderdale, and Kim Richie, and more recently alongside Bill Chambers at the Woody Guthrie Folk Festival in Okemah Oklahoma.

Hot on the heels of his debut solo single “5 Foot 9” landing at #1 on the USA Country Airplay Chart and cracking the Aussie Country Airplay top 15, Nashville-based superstar TYLER HUBBARD drops his exciting new single “Dancin’ In The Country”.

The title track to his most-recent EP, “Dancin’ In The Country” is co-written with Aussie icon Keith Urban, and having just finished touring with Urban, Hubbard is closing the year in spectacular fashion.

His as-yet untitled debut album is slated for release in late January 2023.

Over the last 10 years, Tyler Hubbard has endeared himself to Country Music fans across the globe as the lead-vocalist of record breaking, multi-platinum duo Florida Georgia Line. Hubbard has also proven himself as one of the most in-demand songwriters in Nashville, writing tracks for artists like Jason Aldean, Little Big Town, Thomas Rhett, Lindsay Ell, Billy Currington, Jimmie Allen & Kane Brown.

About Tyler Hubbard

With 19 No. 1 singles on country radio, countless awards, and sold-out tours, Tyler Hubbard has already had a remarkable career as a songwriter and as one half of multi-platinum duo Florida Georgia Line. Now ready for the next chapter, the Georgia-native and prolific songwriter has written well over 100 songs as he works towards his debut solo album release on EMI Nashville.

For the new album, Hubbard teamed up with some of Nashville’s most prominent hitmakers including Ross Copperman, Zach Kale, Rhett Akins, Rodney Clawson, Jon Nite, Jesse Frasure, Ashley Gorley, Ben Johnson, Keith Urban, Thomas Rhett and more. The project will show Hubbard’s many musical sides and influences from urban to contemporary Christian with his country roots remaining in the forefront.

There aren’t many things in life better than waking up to the open fresh air of the country. ‘New Country Morning’ is inspired by one of the many experiences Brendan had camping in the outdoors. A campfire at night, some damper, and maybe a whiskey to warm him up and send him off to sleep. Waking up to the sounds of nature on a fresh cool morning is something he’ll never get tired of.

Award winning singer songwriter, Brendan McMahon, 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.

November 2020 saw 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’.

Once again, the collaboration of Soggy Dog Studios (Steve Vertigan) and McMahon, along with the incredible session musicians from previous albums, has delivered an album of stories about personal journey, travel experiences and people.

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. It has also delivered no less than seven chart topping singles – ‘Jenni J’, ‘When I See You Tonight’, ‘I Feel A Change’, ‘Skin & Bone’, ‘Gundry’s Track’, ‘Back Roads’ and ‘President Reynaldo’.

‘Street Called Main’ is pure “open road with the windows down” nostalgia that just makes you feel good. The song was co-produced by Urban and Dann Huff.

For the rest of the year, the song will find a home on stage when Keith’s ‘The Speed Of Now Vol 1″ tour finally hits Australia in December, 2 years after originally planned.

‘Street Called Main’ follows ‘Brown Eyes Baby’ which are on Keith’s next project – slated for 2023.

“Beer Needs Drinkin'” is Reed Foley’s first single to come to the radio. The young singer-songwriter from Sparta, North Carolina is making a name for himself in country music in Nashville and beyond. His talents have taken him from small-town bars to some of NASCAR’s biggest stages and everything in between. Reed has opened for Jason Aldean, Tyler Farr, and William Michael Morgan. He’s played at Country Thunder Music Festival in Florida. He’s also had his songs featured in television advertisements promoting major sporting events including the Kentucky Derby. Reed gives back to the community including his highly successful “Toys for Tots” campaign.

“If you find comfort in a six-pack and wetting a line, rising country singer Reed Foley’s new single is perfect for you” – Raised Rowdy

“Reed Foley, the voice of a generation of people who are ready for the weekend. ” – Medium

“The New Blue-Collar Anthem” – Drop the Spotlight

It has been ten years since The Wolfe Brothers took the nation by storm with their red hot performances of original songs during their weekly prime time television appearances on Australia’s Got Talent. The country rock band from Tasmania went all the way to the final and came in second.

Since then they have released 5 studio albums and 1 live album. They have strung together 17 consecutive number one singles on the National Radio Chart. Of the 5 albums, 3 hit #1 on the ARIA Country Chart and the other two reached #2. They have toured Australia, USA and Canada – and they never stop touring. They have been awarded 6 Golden Guitars and have arguably become the hottest live act in Australia.

So now it is time for a new musical chapter for brothers Tom and Nick Wolfe and to give us a taste of what is to come they have chosen to release the title track from their new album “Livin’ The Dream” to radio on the 11th November, followed by the release to all DSP’s a week later on the 18th November. Nick said “Sonically, ‘Livin’ the Dream’ is a conscious decision by us to get back to our country roots. We explored a lot of pop and rock territory on our last album but we want to come out of the gate swinging country style and give everyone a taste of what’s to come for the rest of this record that we’re really proud of!”

The new single was co-produced by Nick Wolfe and Rod McCormack and leads the way for what will be The Wolfe Brothers second album with BMG/BBR. The album is set for a April 2023 release.

Tom Wolfe added “We are very excited for this new single and next chapter in our music. It feels right, fun and is a real return to our roots. We are country boys from Tassie who are just Livin’ The Dream”.

Rising country artist Brittany Maggs is thrilled to be releasing her new single, ‘When It Was Easy’ on Friday 4 November.

‘When It Was Easy’ takes you on a journey back in time. It has a nostalgic feel that brings a sense of longing for when life was a little more straight forward. In contrast to this is the upbeat and energetic production which welcomes a light-hearted sentiment of summer fun.

Brittany wrote this song for all the people who felt the last few years stopped them in their tracks. “I used to love staying out late and partying and hanging out with friends, but with everything that happened, I almost lost a part of my youth and a lot of social opportunities. I’m happy with my life now, but at times I do wish I was 19 again and the world hadn’t completely shut down”.

The accompanying music video, shot by Golden Guitar award winning Jay Seeney,

continues the theme and features Brittany enjoying one of her favourite parts of Sydney.

Brittney’s most recent single released earlier this year, ‘Carefree’ has had more than 335,000 streams on Spotify and was added to hotly contested playlists including Spotify’s Fresh Country and New Music Friday Country, and Apple Music’s Country Risers, Aussie Country, and Little Bit Country.

The ‘Carefree’ video has surpassed 50,000 views on YouTube and was added to YouTube’s Country’s New Crop in both the United States and Australia and Incoming Country playlists.

A country girl at heart, Brittany grew up in Sydney’s north-west and loves spending time on the family property with her horses.

After spending four years in Los Angeles developing her sound, Brittany decided it was time to come home to Sydney, where she has since been working on her original music.

This year Brittany has performed at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, the Cowra Festival alongside Adam Brand and opened for the McAllister Kemp Tour earlier this year.

The 23-year-old has gained an impressive following on social media, boasting more than 40 million views on YouTube and more than 380,000 fans on TikTok.

“What Country Means” is another master class in song writing from the 2022 TSA Songwriter of the Year. An earthy acoustic ballad that tells Emily Hatton’s story with a subtle reminder that sometimes heartbreaks don’t come from the most obvious of places. Emily Hatton had the concept and opening line for her new single “What Country Means” all she had to do was find the right puzzle pieces or in this case lyrics to complete this jigsaw; her story, told her way. As cliché as it may sound, the inspiration to finish the song came on a three-hour drive through the countryside on her way home from a gig.

Emily is one of the most exciting artists in Australian Country Music and in this song, we are a little better acquainted with this prized singer-songwriter and her journey so far. For over a decade Emily has been honing her craft, finding her niche and place in country music. Successfully blending the great sounds and stylings of traditional country with a flare of modern country pop throughout her music from the catchy and witty ballads to the softer harmonies and even toe tapping anthems.

” What Country Means” reflects on how Emily discovered her love of country music and the events which led her to becoming an internationally recognised songwriter and celebrated musician. Emily says “I took my experiences and my story, and made it a soundtrack to life, the moments and memories you make along the way” this is exactly what she has managed to do, capturing all of these special moments in song, and has found her identity in country music. “I had to ask myself what do I have in common with other people who have fallen in love with country music? I reflected and found the common threads; love of the land, community, and family.”

From writing poems in her Grandfather’s Apple Tree (in Coastal Victoria) to now an award-winning singer songwriter, seamlessly releasing timeless songs. This very tree planted in the garden that Emily refers to in this single, “I grew up in hand me downs, hands in the dirt of Grandad’s Garden” alluding to a heartbreaking time, one that far outweighs heartbreaks of any other kind. Acknowledging her American family who introduced her to country music and touching on precious childhood memories. Emily pours her heart and soul into this song bringing to life exactly ‘What Country Means’ to her.

“Though I wasn’t raised on country music, it’s where I’ve ended up. And reflective of that, I wasn’t raised on a massive acreage of land in the country, but it’s where I want to end up; and have my kids grow up there one day. That’s why I bookend the song with my grandfather’s garden: I know where I’ve been, I know what I value through, what I’ve lost and gained over the years, and I know where I’m going.” – Emily Hatton

This song was recorded with the legendary producer Matt Fell in his brand-new studio in Tasmania. Emily was in fact the first person to record in this space with 180-degree views of mountains and pristine surrounds. While admiring the beauty of the secluded property, Emily discovered one last piece of the song’s puzzle when she sat on an old swing during a recording break. This track follows on from Hatton’s remarkable single “Red, Wine and Blue” (released in June 2022) which amassed 16,000 streams in less than twenty-four hours and was added straight to Spotify’s Fresh Country Playlist . An upcoming video clip will soon be released for “What Country Means” which will add yet another layer to Emily Hatton’s story. Emily has taken us to snow-capped mountain tops, mystical caves, and other magical places in her music videos. This time we will see one of her most personal and intimate clips fitting perfectly with the song’s lyrics. Jay Seeney of Blacklist Productions brings this story to life while showcasing stunning scenery with parts of the film clip being shot in and around one of Southeast Queensland’s most wondrous locations.

After an incredible breakout year, Sara Berki is set to wind up into summer with the release of a new single ‘Drinking for Free’. Riding high from the success of previous releases, ‘Fallin’ Off The Heartline’ and ‘Good Enough’, the NSW Southern Highlands singer-songwriter has continued to impress Australian radio and music industry tastemakers alike. Receiving high rotation support across the board on all major country music stations as well major playlisting has resulted in continuous chart success on the major Countrytown Hot 50 Airplay chart.

Following Sara’s debut success of heartbreak ballad ‘Falling Off The Heartline’ and then more recently the up-tempo throwback country single ‘Good Enough’ , ‘Drinking For Free’ is a fiery and sassy track which delivers a punchy country hook which will have live audiences singing along. The storyline is about a strong woman working her magic at the bar, she’s happy to get her drinks for free but on her terms only!

“Imagine she is going out, she doesn’t have any expectations or cares in the world, and she knows she’s going to have drinks bought for her the whole night. That’s what this song is about. It’s cheeky, sassy, and flirty. It gives me Daisy Duke vibes! I was listening to early Miranda Lambert and Gretchen Wilson when I wrote it.” Sara Berki

This single comes with the announcement of Sara’s first ever ticketed, headline show, to take place at The Tamworth Hotel – Main Bar on Friday 20th January, as part of the Tamworth Country Music Festival. The show is presented by Ringers Western and will feature rising duo, Sons of Atticus as special guests. Tickets are on-sale now from www.saraberki.com. Sara was previously announced on the line-up of the massive, sold-out CMC Rocks QLD 2023, a major accomplishment for an artist in their debut year, Sara will join the impressive line-up that includes Morgan Wallen, Zac Brown Band, Kip Moore, Bailey Zimmerman, Hailey Whitters and many more.

With a growing catalogue of songs in the works and no signs of slowing down, Sara Berki is riding high and it’s just the beginning.

Craig Woodward’s latest single, ‘Iris’, is a country infused tribute to one of the biggest bands of the 90’s. The Goo Goo Dolls are an American hit making machine hailing from Buffalo, USA.

From an early age The Goo Goo Dolls where a regular feature of the young Craig Woodward and his mate’s soundtrack, driving around the sunny suburban streets of Australia in the 90’s. It’s only fitting Craig chose the only cover for his forthcoming album to be one from one of his hero’s.

The track was produced by Jacob Wilkes and features the amazing pedal steel energy of Sasha Ostrovsky (Hootie & The Blow Fish/Darius Rucker).

The city boy, with country soul, a dash of folk and some rock & roll. Craig Woodward is an Australian singer-songwriter currently working on his brand-new album.

Craig has consistently performed up and down the east coast of Australia for the past 25 years and his passion and commitment to his craft has only grown stronger, as he endeavours to reach more local and international fans with his music.

He has supported Australian touring acts the country over, sharing the stage with the likes of Ian Moss, Sarah McLeod, Mental as Anything, 1927, The Radiators, Adam Harvey, Hayley Jensen, Damien Leith and Shannon Noll, to name a few.

8-time GRAMMY® Award winner and 3-time ACM Entertainer of the Year, Carrie Underwood has announced the electrifying second single from her Denim & Rhinestones album, “Hate My Heart”. Underwood shared the news about her latest single with an exclusive new video clip, providing a special behind-the-scenes look at her rehearsal of the song for her upcoming tour and will release the official video for “Hate My Heart” at 4am AEDT on Thursday morning. Underwood co-wrote “Hate My Heart” with frequent collaborators Hillary Lindsey and David Garcia, as well as hit artist/songwriter Hardy.

“‘Hate My Heart’ was definitely part of my desire to have fun on this album. I wanted songs that would be exciting to perform live and would fill up an arena, and that’s exactly what we’re about to do with The Denim & Rhinestones Tour. This one is definitely going to get everyone up on their feet and having a good time. It was great writing ‘Hate My Heart’ with Hillary Lindsey and David Garcia, who I love collaborating with, and also getting to work with Hardy, who brought a cool vibe and an energy to the track.”

Underwood is also nominated for three awards at the upcoming CMA Awards on November 9, including Entertainer of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year and Musical Event of the Year for the multi-week #1 smash hit, “If I Didn’t Love You” with Jason Aldean.

Underwood released Denim & Rhinestones in June and is the latest collaboration with David Garcia, with whom she co-produced her critically-acclaimed 2018 release, Cry Pretty and her 2021 GRAMMY® Award-winning album of gospel hymns, My Savior

“Carrie Underwood achieves timeless, legendary country status with Denim & Rhinestones”

• The Tennessean

“And after selling 66 million albums and winning more than 100 major awards,

Underwood bounces through a mix of synth-pop, soul, rootsy country and

roadhouse blues for a 12-song set that pulsates with real joy.”

• Toronto Sun

Denim & Rhinestones marks Underwood’s 10th consecutive career Top 10 debut on the Billboard Top 200 chart for all genres. All 10 of Underwood’s albums (including nine studio albums and her 2014 Greatest Hits: Decade #1) have debuted in the Top 10, beginning with her first album, Some Hearts, which was released in 2005. Denim & Rhinestones debuted as the top-selling country album in the U.S and the #1 country album in Australia, Canada and UK. She is the most-awarded female country artist for singles in RIAA history.

Underwood’s stellar year also included a commanding headlining performance at the iconic Stagecoach Festival stage, where she appeared for the fourth time, having made her Stagecoach debut in 2008, followed by performances in 2011 and 2016. A surprise performance with Guns N’ Roses frontman Axl Rose made headlines around the world. She surprised fans again when she joined Guns N’ Roses onstage for two songs during each of their shows at the UK’s Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in July.