ZFM Country

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.

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.

Since its release, Beer Needs Drinkin’ has garnered significant media coverage including:

“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

Marshall Potts’ Releases New Summer Single – Heaven Or Home

Potts’s shares his story of waking up to his soul’s purpose, his trip inside to find that lost piece of himself. A cathartic journey of discovery. He explores the why of his existence and is faced with more existential questions of what’s next that invariably follows when we look deep into the unknown.

“‘Heaven Or Home’ is special. From the opening 20 seconds, it’s clear this is a perfect radio song for summer. Melodic, uplifting, catchy and fun. One for the car with the roof and windows down.” Guy B – Great Music Stories Radio

Marshall’s notes on Heaven Or Home

“This song wrote itself like so many on The Storm Album. The song shares the process of taking the time out of my busy life to look inside and see where I’ve been where I’m going. To take stock on on my life and analyze the reason I’m even here and how the experiences have molded my belief systems. Defragging my life like we would a hard drive to repair and reorganize my thoughts before the traumas and scars left their damage. To reconnect to the original child inside before life took control away from the dreamer and fear stole the feeling that all things are possible. I found myself in the process and regained that initial positivity we are all born with. Now I wonder where this all will lead and I am reminded that it isn’t the destination but the journey that is most important… that heaven or home may actually be the same place one day” Marshall Potts

Country music’s redneck rocker, HARDY, and bell bottom queen, Lainey Wilson, have joined forces for the first time and have created a powerful new song “wait in the truck”.

The song is accompanied by the Justin Clough-directed music video in which both Lainey and HARDY feature. The track was written by Michael Hardy, Hunter Phelps, Jordan Schmidt and Renee Blair. Produced by Joey Moi, Jordan Schmidt, Derek Wells and HARDY.

“This is one of my favourite songs I’ve ever written – probably the best song I’ve ever written to be honest,” HARDY said of the song. “It hit me so hard the first time I heard the demo back, and no other song had done that before. Very excited for the world to hear the song, excited for the song to give people a platform to maybe speak out about stuff that might be going on in their own homes.” He continued, “Thank you to Lainey Wilson for doing this song with me – she crushed it, she crushed the music video, I just can’t wait for the world to see this and I can’t wait to play it live.”

Lainey Wilson said, “I always love working with HARDY, but this track is extra special. I am so proud to be part of ‘wait in the truck’ because it’s such a powerful song and story, and I really do think it will change lives.”

The song is a true country music story-telling song and tells the tale of domestic abuse and a murder as HARDY and Wilson trade off vocals. In the clip, HARDY plays the character of an unexpected stranger who is out to find justice for Wilson, who portrays a domestic abuse victim. As the clip concludes, Wilson graciously thanks HARDY, who is behind bars, for saving her from her abuser.

The single also features a stunning gospel choir, which provides an epic build throughout the arrangement, as listeners hear the fate of the man who comes to the woman’s rescue. One thing is for certain, ” wait in the truck” is a stunning result, this is unquestionably a song that has so much power behind it, both lyrically and musically…people need to hear this song, and that’s pretty much it!

ABOUT HARDY:

Big Loud Records’ heavy hitter HARDY broke out with critically acclaimed 2020 debut album, “A ROCK”, “an album that owes as much to AC/DC as George Jones” and “one of the most self-assured full-length debut albums in years” (Billboard). The project joins countrified mixtape “HIXTAPE VOL. 1” and most-recent “HIXTAPE VOL. 2”, as well as career-launching EPs “THIS OLE BOY” and “WHERE TO FIND ME.” HARDY is the 2022 ACM Songwriter of the Year and two-time AIMP Songwriter of the Year, additionally nominated for New Artist of the Year at the 2021 CMA Awards. One of CRS’ 2021 New Faces of Country Music, a two-time CMA Triple Play award recipient and a Vevo DSCVR artist, the pride of Philadelphia, Miss. has earned his reputation as “a breakout in the making” (HITS). HARDY has co-penned 11 #1 singles since 2018, including his own chart-topping, double platinum-certified single “ONE BEER” feat. Lauren Alaina + Devin Dawson, and most-recent #1 alongside Dierks Bentley + BRELAND, “Beers On Me.” Serving as direct support on Morgan Wallen’s Dangerous Tour now, HARDY has also opened for Jason Aldean, FGL, Chris Lane, Thomas Rhett, Cole Swindell and more.

ABOUT LAINEY WILSON:

ACM New Female of the Year 2022 winner, Lainey Wilson has earned the enthusiasm of the industry, having been named to nearly every “Artist to Watch” list, winning MusicRow Magazine’s Discovery Artist of the Year award and being crowned Billboard’s “Top New Country Artist of 2021,” the Louisiana native is one of Nashville’s hottest and most buzzed-about new artists. Landing her first No. 1 with her PLATINUM Certified ACM Song of the Year “Things A Man Oughta Know,” nearly 10 years to the day after leaving her small farming community in a camper trailer to chase her dreams, she has won over legions of fans with her signature Bell Bottom Country sound and aesthetic, which blends traditional Country with a modern yet retro flare. A prolific and sought-after songwriter (having co-writer credits on songs by artists including Luke Combs, Flatland Calvary and more), Lainey is a fresh, fierce voice in Nashville, delivering one of the “Top Country Albums of 2021” (Rolling Stone, Taste of Country, and American Songwriter) with her label debut, Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’. With a rockstar stage presence, her artistry has taken her across the globe, performing for sold-out crowds throughout the US, UK, and Germany with notable names like Jason Aldean, Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Hardy, Jon Pardi, Ashley McBryde, Randy Houser and more. Her next single, “Heart Like a Truck” was released May 20, following up her recent return to the top of the Country radio charts with the two-week No. 1 hit, “Never Say Never” with Cole Swindell. She will release her hotly anticipated album, “Bell Bottom Country” on October 28, just before making her acting debut on the hit series Yellowstone on November 13.

After the success of her last release, ” Iconic” which staked claim in the National country airplay charts for 14 weeks, Hudson Rose is back with the brand new single “Misery”, out October 28th.

The catchy country pop track was written about those days where you’ve just had enough and need a song to sing at the top of your lungs in the car with the windows down. As Hudson states, “This song was inspired by the people who just always seems to have something to say, who add their two bobs worth whether you asked for it or not.”

Drawing inspiration from the likes of Alanis Morrisette, Breland and Keith Urban, “Misery” is aimed not only to country music fans but for all music lovers. The country-trap inspired single was written and recorded alongside MSquared Productions and mastered by Leon Zervos at Studio 301. Hudson credits a lifelong exposure to a variety of music as her inspiration for the variety of multi-genre sound in this country-pop anthem.

“I once heard someone say that country music should be for everyone and that is what I aim to achieve in my music “- Hudson Rose.

With well received performances under her belt at Tamworth Country Music Festival, opening for country trailblazer James Johnston and attending the Junior Country Music Academy in 2019, Hudson is no stranger to the country audiences. Amassing over 65,000 streams on Spotify along with her previous single being added to high rotation on Triple M Country, ABC Country, KIX Country and iHeart Country Radio. With its catchy banjo riff and country trap beat, “Misery” is a track that draws you in and deserves your attention.

Country music newcomer, James Keith, creates music fuelled by positivity. In a previous life he was a professional rugby league player, now he’s turned his talents to the stage with the release of his debut single, ‘Life Is Good Today’.

James’ new single is a stirring country rock tune designed to exude feel good vibes. “There is so much negativity in the world and it really bothers me,” declares James. “This song has a really positive vibe with lots of energy and gives the listeners several simple reasons, from having a beer with your old man, to waking up next to someone, or going to a show and singing along, to just “LIVE IN THE MOMENT, CAUSE LIFE IS GOOD TODAY”.

The 4-minute anthem pumps through the speakers like something from the glory days of live music – big electric guitar riffs, thunderous drums and James’ down-to-earth vocal front and centre.

While produced and engineered by Craig Honeysett at Dotted Eight Studios in Orange, James took a hands-on approach to the recording. “I had a hand in all aspects of every instrument in the production phase.”

‘Life Is Good Today’ is more than just a song for James Keith, it’s a mantra. It all began when he visited Nashville, TN in 2011. “All the cover bands kept playing this song with the lyrics “life is good today” which really resonated with me.” Country music with a positive message has been his focus ever since.

But before he had this epiphany in Music City, he’d been involved in the family business – professional rugby league. His father, Peter Mortimer, played professionally for 11 years (alongside uncles Steve and Chris Mortimer), notching 5 grand finals with the Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs. When the opportunity arose to follow in his father’s footsteps, James moved from his hometown of Orange to Sydney’s Northern Beaches to don the jersey for Manly.

However, Orange still holds a special place in James’ heart, which is why it was the site of the video clip for ‘Life Is Good Today’. Shot by Dave Smyth (The Studio Door) and Craig Honeysett during a live performance at the CWA Hall in Orange, it captures the raw energy James projects through his music. Behind the band sits an illuminated ‘Tootsies’ sign – a throwback to that life changing Nashville trip, where many a late night was spent listening to the twang of a tele in Broadway’s famous Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge.

‘Life Is Good Today’ begs its listeners to pause and count their blessings. Which, to James Keith, is paramount. The unbridled optimism and positivity he weaves into his high energy country rock makes for an impressive debut.

It’s been five years since his last solo single, ‘It’s Only Midnight’. Now, five-time Golden Guitar nominee, Matt Cornell, is back with a brand-new song, ‘Stick Around’.

The single draws on Matt’s love of 80s music to create an awesome blend of country rock on this anthem track. Matt’s gripping vocal tears right through the middle of a weave of pounding drums and lofty guitars, as he sings about settling down with the love of his life.

” ‘Stick Around ‘ explores the weird phenomenon that True Love often strikes when we least expect it,” explains the Gold Coast based artist. “The idea that something so solid and long lasting can be borne out of one boozy fleeting flirty moment.”

The song began to take shape when producer Jared Adlam gave Matt some new listening material. “I mentioned to him how I wanted to embrace my rock background & love of 80’s music, he then turned me onto American artist ‘ Hardy’, I was hooked straight away.”

The pair teamed up with artist and songwriter Tim Aitken and wrote the song in a blitz. “The chemistry was instant. Stick Around was written in a few hours.” However, the song’s tale of true love is more prophecy than reality for Matt. “I feel in a way, where I’m at in my life, Stick Around is kind of a wish for me personally, I’m currently single, & wanting to settle down to start a family one day, in this song, the guy meets his life partner, has the two kids & a dog, there’s hope for me yet.”

The single’s stellar video clip – directed by Golden Guitar winning Jay Seeney of Blacklist Productions – sees Matt live the words to his song. From the chance meeting in a bar, he croons about in the song’s first verse – “And if it wasn’t for the liquor, I wouldn’t talk to you / It sounds funny but it’s true” – to a stolen kiss under golden sunset.

As one half of Golden Guitar nominated duo, Cornell & Carr, Matt has had his solo career on the backburner in recent years. “Having been focused on Cornell & Carr the past few years, & not having released anything solo for five years, I wanted to make sure this next single made a statement, & lets people know I’m back.”

Despite his brief solo hiatus Matt has been anything but idle throughout his lifelong music career. Sneaking in the back doors of venues to play professionally when he was just 16, he’s enjoyed an illustrious career as a bass player to some Aussie music royalty. He’s plucked the 4-string for Baby Animals, Richard Clapton, Rose Tattoo, Shannon Noll and now Adam Brand.

He’s fronted the stage at the famous SXSW festival in Texas and supported Richard Marx on both his 2016 and 2018 Australian tours. Matt absolutely lives and creates music, to the point where he says, “I make music because I have to, not because I want to: I ‘m obsessed with it.”

Unsurprisingly, Matt grew up in an extremely musical family. The son of performers Cheryl Assange and former Delltone Wayne Cornell, his parents would often rehearse shows in the loungeroom. Matt’s uncle, George Assange (also performed under the name Vic Sabrino), was also influential, being the first Australian to make a rock ‘n’ roll recording in 1955.

With the release of ‘Stick Around’ Matt is thrilled to be getting out on the road to perform. He’ll be performing once again at his 6th annual Sydney Harbour Cruise, The Stock Route Country Music Festival and Country on Keppel in 2023.

‘Stick Around’ embodies Matt Cornell’s rock spirit perfectly. His style of storytelling is both familiar and unique and makes for an excellent re-introduction to this magnificent artist.

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 avout a Colorado Fireman recalling a romatinc 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.”

Brilliantly written with self-awareness and clever metaphors, Lainey shares the semi-autobiographical and strong “Heart Like A Truck.” Produced by Jay Joyce and written by Lainey, Trannie Anderson and Dallas Wilson, the first single off her next album remains firmly in the spirit of Bell Bottom Country but shows the growth Lainey has experienced as a person, artist and songwriter since she wrote her critically-acclaimed Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’ album which featured the ACM Song of the Year, “Things A Man Oughta Know.”

“These past few months have been such a whirlwind, but man, it was quite the journey to get here. Miley wasn’t playing when she said, ‘it’s about the climb,’ because it really is what builds character and teaches you the most about yourself,” said Lainey Wilson. “‘Heart Like A Truck’ is all about self-discovery, growth and embracing scars as badges of honor. After all, a truck that has hit a few bumps and earned some scratches has proved itself and its tenacity-the shiny one on the lot can’t say that.”

The cinematic video, directed by Elizabeth Olmstead, tells the story of a newbie, underdog horse trainer that struggles to gain the acceptance of her peers. Lainey plays the lead, debuting her acting chops and showcasing her horseback skills. Filmed at a historic farm in Franklin, TN, the video features performance scenes, sweeping landscapes and of course, a truck.

“I learned to ride horses before I learned to walk so, I felt right at home on set but I’ll admit, I was a little nervous to really do character acting for the first time-it ended up being such a creatively fulfilling and thrilling experience,” added Lainey. “I worked with Elizabeth for a Frito’s commercial spot with Yellowstone and was so impressed by her talent, I had to have her be a part of this project-she really wowed me on this one. It was also really cool that it ended up being a whole team of badass women in charge of bringing this thing to life. It ain’t every day that you walk on a set and have a female director, executive producer, director of photography, etc. so them all being able to relate to the protagonist made me feel like there was an extra level of care, it was really special.”

” Heart Like A Truck” is the follow up to her second No. 1, “Never Say Never” with Cole Swindell, which reigned supreme at the top of the Country radio charts for two weeks. Seen on Good Morning America, The Kelly Clarkson Show and CMT Music Awards (which was heralded as “the night’s top must watch performance” by the Tennessean), the single was Lainey’s biggest radio success to date. She earned her first No. 1 with her breakout award-winning hit, “Things A Man Oughta Know.” The single, which earned her the title of Billboard’s Top New Country Artist of 2021, appeared on her critically acclaimed album, “Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’ which debuted in 2021 to mass critical acclaim.

ABOUT LAINEY WILSON:

ACM New Female of the Year 2022 winner, Lainey Wilson has earned the enthusiasm of the industry, having been named to nearly every “Artist to Watch” list, winning MusicRow Magazine’s Discovery Artist of the Year award and being crowned Billboard’s “Top New Country Artist of 2021,” the Louisiana native is one of Nashville’s hottest and most buzzed-about new artists. Landing her first No. 1 with her PLATINUM Certified ACM Song of the Year “Things A Man Oughta Know,” nearly 10 years to the day after leaving her small farming community in a camper trailer to chase her dreams, she has won over legions of fans with her signature Bell Bottom Country sound and aesthetic, which blends traditional Country with a modern yet retro flare. A prolific and sought-after songwriter (having co-writer credits on songs by artists including Luke Combs, Flatland Calvary and more), Lainey is a fresh, fierce voice in Nashville, delivering one of the “Top Country Albums of 2021” (Rolling Stone, Taste of Country, and American Songwriter) with her label debut, Sayin’ What I’m Thinkin’. With a rockstar stage presence, her artistry has taken her across the globe, performing for sold-out crowds throughout the US, UK, and Germany with notable names like Jason Aldean, Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, Hardy, Jon Pardi, Ashley McBryde, Randy Houser and more. Her next single, “Heart Like a Truck” was released May 20, following up her recent return to the top of the Country radio charts with the two-week No. 1 hit, “Never Say Never” with Cole Swindell.

Canada born, Nashville-based MacKenzie Porter is rising to international acclaim after building momentum with her first-ever U.S. #1, six-week chart topping Dustin Lynch collaboration “Thinking ‘Bout You.”

Porter made her own mark simultaneously, releasing brand-new songs “Coming Soon To A Bar Near You,” “Pickup,” “Unlonely Me” and “Heaven Heard Me” in late 2021. Her “mesmerizing vocals and hook-driven songs” (Billboard) sparked headline-worthy accolades, debuting on the Grand Ole Opry, earning four 2021 CCMA Awards nominations, and a 2021 JUNO nomination for her Joey Moi-produced Country Album of the Year contender, DRINKIN’ SONGS: THE COLLECTION.

Making history, Porter became the first female artist since Shania Twain to have three consecutive #1 singles at Canadian country radio with “About You,” “These Days” and “Seeing Other People.” Porter also earned her first crossover Top 10 at Canadian pop radio – a first since 2003 for a Canadian country artist – with “These Days (Remix),” and joined CMT’s Next Women of Country class of 2021. The triple threat previously starred in cult-followed sci-fi television series Travelers now on Netflix, and is serving as direct support on Walker Hayes’ FANCY LIKE TOUR nationwide now.

Big Loud Records’ Mackenzie Porter is fast becoming one of the leading voices within the ever-growing worldwide country scene and today she releases yet another phenomenal single with ‘Pickup’ available to stream and download across your favourite platforms.

With ‘Pickup’ Mackenzie Porter demonstrates a natural ability for being able to craft authentic country songs that also include plenty of modern elements making her an artist that is able to reach a wide and varied demographic and cross-genre fanbase making her a wonderfully exciting performer.

Sydney singer-songwriter Jax Tonic is putting his best foot forward with his debut single set for release on Monday, October 24.

On The Front Foot is a story about meeting the ‘one’ and being infatuated from that first meeting, with a strong theme of girl power.

“It’s about guy meets girl and he is absolutely smitten by her,” Jax said. “It’s kind of inspired by the night I met my wife because it was a similar situation as is described in the song: we were out on Australia Day Eve in the city, having a good time, but then we just had phone numbers to keep in touch with.”

The song came to Jax via the melody and lyrics found their way in.

“I usually sing the melody and the lyrics almost find their way up to the top, then I match the lyrics to the song,” he said.

“I want people to relate to the story across countries and demographics – not just country fans, but everyone – because I believe every bloke could relate to this situation at some point in time.

“This is a girl power song, because the girl is in control here, and it tells of that power of everything a woman has over a man because that’s a big thing.”

Mixed and mastered in Nashville by Austin Stanley and Luke Wooten, who has previously worked with fellow Aussies including Adam Brand and Travis Collins, On The Front Foot, was produced by multi-instrumentalist Alexie Pigot who played most instruments, along with Northern Beaches guitarist David Smith.

Award-winning video director Jay Seeney has brought the story to life with a clip shot at Manly Beach and the nearby Corso.

Grab your keys, Jamie Lindsay is taking you on the Open Road.

Heading on a roadtrip? Open Road forms a perfect soundtrack for your adventures, inspired by the New England Highway scenery on his way to the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

“I had this song in my head when I hit the New England Highway as I got closer to play in Tamworth,” he said.

“We had been in lockdown and it felt so good to get out on the open road and, as soon as I got to Tamworth, checked into the caravan park, I smashed out a shell of Open Road.”

Open Road follows on from hit single, Bring On The Summertime, which is nearing 100,000 streams internationally and enjoying playlisting success.

Escaping the city for the trip inspired the Ettalong-based artist in such a way in January, that he had the song ready to play in April for the belated Tamworth Country Music Festival.

“I played it for the first time at the Tamworth Services Club and it feels a little Keith Urban-ish, harking back to the feel of Somebody Like You,” he said.

“It’s all about that feeling of freedom and breaking those chains of the city.”

The combination of rocking guitars and banjo means this needs to be cranked up in the car.

It’s also the perfect touring song for Jamie.

“I’m excited about touring, playing festivals and seeing the country,” he said.

“We’re so lucky we have all these places in Australia.”

For the ultimate driving song, wrap your ears around Open Road and escape the everyday.