ZFM Country

The first radio single from Steve Cheers’ forthcoming fourth solo album, ‘My Father’s Hands’, is a tribute to Australia’s steel making industry of the 20th Century. The track and album ‘Signs Of Life’ (scheduled for released September 1st, 2022) is Steve’s second collaboration with Producer Matt Fell, and continues to reflect his melodic modern Australian country style.

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

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

“Kiss Me Like You Mean It” is the fourth single from Casey’s smash hit new album, “Light It Up”, and follows the multi-million streaming hits “God Took His Time on You”, “Come Turn Me On” and “Get To Know Ya”.

With 36 million combined streams and seven consecutive #1 hits on the CountryTown Hot 50, Casey is one of the most loved and in-demand artists in Australian country music today.

His electrifying live show has been wowing fans on the ‘Light It Up’ tour and Casey has performed at, or is due to perform at most of the biggest events on the country music calendar, including CMC Rocks, Gympie Muster, Groundwater Country Music Festival, Big Country Festival as well as the iconic Bluesfest.

“Kiss Me Like You Mean It” is a slice of country-pop, with an earworm of a hook, powered by a funk infused horn section. The track was co-written by Casey with songwriting partners Kaci Brown and Sam Gray, along with the album’s producer M Squared (Michael Paynter and Michael Delorenzis).

“This was the first time the 5 of us collaborated on a track and it worked out perfectly!” Casey commented. “I’d come up with the original demo with Sam and Kaci over in the US, but when I took the song to MSquared they thought we could take it to a whole new level by adding in some other production elements. That brass line at the end of the chorus is an ear worm and gets stuck in your head straight away! This is gonna be great live.”

It’s been an incredible year for Casey with “Light It Up” reaching #1 on the ARIA Australian Artist country album chart, his previous album “Town of a Million Dreams” passing 90 weeks on the chart, winning Artist of the Year at the Gold Coast Music Awards, being nominated for an ARIA Award, APRA Award and multiple Golden Guitar Awards and having “Light It Up” used as the backing track for the AFL’s TV promo’s for the kick off of the 2022 season – and there’s no signs of slowing down.

Casey recently wrapped up the ‘Light it Up’ national tour, which saw him & his band perform for thousands of fans around the country. He will soon kick off a run of festival dates which will take him across the country again.

Gold Coast country stars Hinterland have always run their own race. From launching the band during COVID lockdowns, through to coming out of the gate with made-for-stadium country-rock stompers, the band have taken artistic decisions and a career path that has been uniquely Hinterland .

‘ Stay In Your Lane ‘, the group’s sixth single takes a distinctly country turn, shelving the big sound of their chart hits ‘Loud’ and ‘Treating Me Good’ for a more traditional country sing-a-long flavour that will delight both old fans and new alike.

“‘ Stay In Your Lane ‘ is about focusing on your own journey and success, not comparing yourself to others,” said vocalist Jesse Emmanuel. “I think we’re all guilty of it from time to time and often we overlook our own wins and don’t give ourselves enough credit if we aren’t kicking the same goals as someone else. But everyone is on a different path and has a unique story.”

Hinterland’s unique story began with the members playing together in duos The Bostocks (Rachel and Robbie) and The Daisy Dukes (Rachel and Jesse) before combining to pursue their mutual goal of becoming an original country music stadium act. Rachel Bostock is one of the most revered violinists in Australia and a 3 time Golden Fiddle Award winner. Robbie Bostock is a National Songwriting Award winner and has toured the world playing guitar on the biggest stages with some of our huge homegrown talent. Jesse Emmanuel (daughter of legendary guitarist Phil Emmanuel) also has an APRA Songwriter Award under her belt and has co-written recent hits for Taylor Moss, Sabrina Durante and many more.

With their big stomping singles ‘In The Hinterland’, ‘ Loud’, ‘Giddy Up’ and ‘Treating Me Good’ all hitting the top 10 of the Countrytown radio charts, ‘ Stay In Your Lane’ shows a softer, more traditional side to the band.

Cowgirl Crazy is an uplifting, good time, girl’s night out on the town song! A carefree, feel good song about letting the worries of the day just melt away while hanging out with your friends. It will make you want to kick up your boots, dance till you drop and let the good times roll!

“If you want to get the crowd on the dance floor, just play Cowgirl Crazy by Justin Kane!” – Jeff Meek-WDHR, Pikeville, KY

About Justin Kane

Justin Kane served our country in the Navy onboard the U.S.S. Harry S. Truman in Norfolk, Virginia, as a Master at Arms for Command Naval Region Southwest in San Diego, California, and finally onboard the U.S.S Bonhomme Richard. He then went on two deployments to the Persian Gulf and served with some of the bravest and most honorable people he had ever met.

Following his service, he decided he couldn’t ignore his love for music and decided to use his gift from God to share his love for the U.S. and to spread the message that WE ARE STRONG as a country when we are united together, WE ARE RESOLUTE when we stand together, WE ARE COURAGEOUS when we have faith in ourselves, in our country and in God. However busy our lives may be, we can be grateful for what we have because FREEDOM IS NOT FREE.

Justin is a born entertainer and strives to make the lives of those who listen to his music better. His high energy show is an eclectic mix of country, southern rock, modern-day country hits and all-American originals. He wants to provide people with a chance to escape their day to day worries, whether for thirty minutes or several hours. That escape can help them face the challenges of our day to day lives. If his music can do that for others, then his goal has been reached.

The new single and fan favorite, COWGIRL CRAZY” by Justin Kane aims to do just that. We hope your listeners will enjoy this fun-loving feel-good song!

You may remember Hunter Kaine from her massively successful 2020 debut, ‘Long Way From Lonely’ – a longing Country ballad that featured Australian music legend, Shane Nicholson. Or perhaps you remember Kaine from her stint as a lead vocalist in Melbourne Country Rock outfit, Deep Creek Road. After enduring one of the world’s lengthiest COVID lockdowns, the Victoria native is now back with the release of her stellar new single, ‘Mind of its Own’.

‘Mind of its Own’ oozes Country pop vibes; jangly acoustic guitars and hook-laden vocals, wrapped around a beat that transports you smack bang into the middle of an arena stage mosh pit. Yet behind that slick façade lies the tale of a tortured heart. “This beat in my chest is messin’ with my head,” sings Kaine in the rousing first verse. In her words, the song speaks of “relationships that have ended, that continue to haunt us and keep us locked into the past with a former lover.”

The bop came to Kaine pre-pandemic, as she was collecting songs for her debut album. “[It] was a really special offer to me two years ago by some really incredible writers based out of Nashville.” Her instant connection with the song meant she kept a close hold on it all this time. “I still feel so great about it two years on (after covid), which really is testament to great writing.”

Kaine is meticulous when it comes to her songs’ production and for this single she reached out to fellow Melbournite, Adrian Hannan (Delta Goodrem, Vanessa Amorosi). His studio, the Song Store, is nestled in the idyllic hills of the country side, which possesses “all of the country music vibes you could ever need”. Although the recording process did not begin in such a picturesque setting.

“My producer Adrian Hannan and I are from Melbourne, a city that experienced one of the toughest and longest lockdown periods in the world,” recalls Kaine. So, they took it online. “Using Zoom to communicate during the tracking process was a quirky experience, but we had an absolute ball!”. Luckily, after restrictions lifted, they were finally in the same room. “Once the lockdowns were over, I was able to attend the Song Store and record my lead and backing vocals.”

But before Kaine ever reached those dreamy hills, she was one half of the duo, Honey Train – who frequented the Tamworth Country Music Festival. Then later she became a vocalist for country rockers, Deep Creek Road. She more recently travelled to Nashville TN, where she met fellow Australian born songwriter Phil Barton – hit-writer for Morgan Evans, Lee Brice, The Wolfe Brothers and so many more. It was Barton who passed Kaine a demo of ‘Long Way From Lonely’. She recorded the song and it went to #12 on The Music Network Country Hot 50 airplay chart. It also racked up a healthy 700k+ streams on Spotify.

With a voice like Kaine’s it’s no surprise she’s achieved success so early in her career. Her pipes have all the twang of an authentic southern drawl and the gusto of a global popstar. The clever production on ‘Mind of its Own’ provides the perfect stage for them to soar. The single is sure to be a triumph for the rising star – so If you haven’t made your mind up yet about Hunter Kaine this ought to do the trick.

Ella is back with her brand-new single ‘Along The Way’, produced by ARIA Award winning Matt Fell. The upbeat, catchy melody combined with her captivating storytelling, will make you want to sing and tap along. Bringing together the worlds of pop and country, Ella emphasises the importance of embracing life’s journeys and looking forward rather than behind.

Young country pop artist, Ella Powell, has been named as a rising star, making an impressive mark in the Australian music industry at the age of eighteen. Fans of Taylor Swift and Kelsea Ballerini will connect with Ella’s honest lyrics, powerful vocals and storytelling ability that is engrained into the core of her music. Audiences are captivated by her live performances, as seen when she won the People’s Choice Award at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, cementing a clear and promising path within the industry.

With numerous single releases and headlining shows under her belt, Ella is one to watch. Her single ‘Paper Town’ was named on High On Country’s top 22 of 2021, alongside a number of iconic Australian artists including Morgan Evans and Keith Urban, as well as being played on radio stations both nationally and internationally.

Ella’s previous release, ‘Side Effects’, received airplay and press throughout the UK and US, also making an appearance on ABC’s ‘Saturday Night Country.’ Her top 10 position within the AMRAP Regional Charts is reflective of the unique flare Ella brought to the industry with the single. She was also named the CCMA National Junior Songwriter of the Year.

Ella’s musical ability and skillset, combined with her confident presentation as a unique artist, is truly outstanding and shows the capability of her artistry that is well beyond her years. 2022 is looking promising for her, having the opportunity to continue working with multi award winning producer Matt Fell on more of her catchy, relatable singles and debut EP. Through her musical success and individual style, Ella has come to the attention of numerous industry names in Australia and overseas, building on the strong foundations she has created to continue as a successful recording artist.

“Ella creates the perfect blend of Country, Pop and Folk” – Countrytown

“Powell is a teenager yet her maturity as a singer and songwriter suggests she has been working on her craft for some time. Given the quality of music she is releasing, she will be even more people’s choice of artist over the next few months” – Sunburnt Country Music

Bursting from the stables to the stage, the triple threat singer-songwriter, actress and equestrian star Sabrina Durante is riding to the top with her new single ‘Saddle Up’.

Her debut single ‘Glad Its Not Me’ made waves across Australia in early 2022, with over 300 spins on radio and adds on Kix and Triple M Country.

With her sparkling smile and signature bejeweled Akubra to match, has spent many years in theatre and TV as well as most recently as the leading lady of popular Gold Coast live attraction ‘Australian Outback Spectacular’.

But it’s music and horseriding that have always been her first loves, with ‘Saddle Up’ combining both in a song that will resonate with both city and country fans alike.

“Horses have been such a big part of my life, right from when I was born. I have forever lived and breathed everything to do with horses growing up on my family’s property. ,” said Sabrina Durante.

“I was inspired to write this song to remind myself, and everyone, that sometimes you need to take a step back from reality. To do the things that make you remember who you are, and what really matters. Just like the old saying ‘get back on the horse’. For me. To “Saddle Up. ” is my escape; the place I ground myself, and find peace from daily stresses.

As well as graduating NIDA and starring in stage productions ‘Legally Blonde’ and ‘ High School Musical’ and TV’s ‘Love Child’, Sabrina Durante has a long history in equestrian, winning Australian National Equestrian Championships multiple times in the show horse discipline and being a member of the Queensland Dressage Squad.

“It’s easy to forget about the important things when life gets heavy and things get tough. But it’s in these moments we truly have to return back to what’s most important in life, and to me, that is being happy. ‘Saddle Up’ was written as a reminder of that. Happiness is found in people, places, moments – and those are the things I turn to when life feels like it’s not on my side.”

Showcasing their amazing vocal ability, Bryce Sainty and Taylor Moss have teamed up to release a country ballad like no other. An outright love song, “Sunday Best” is an intimate piano ballad written by Bryce Sainty, Rod McCormack and Sally Barris.

Originally featured on Bryce Sainty’s EP “Hometown”, “Sunday Best” has been re-recorded with the addition of Taylor’s vocals to take “Sunday Best” to the next level.

“I was so excited to work Taylor on this song. Sunday Best is my favourite song on the Hometown EP and to be able to add Taylor’s vocals to it has taken it to a whole new level and I can’t wait to share it with you all”.

Both Bryce and Taylor have been on a roll this year with 2 singles in the top 5 radio charts. Bryce’s single “This Summer’s The One” was the #1 most downloaded song on Play MPE across all genres, and reached #4 on the National Country Charts. Taylor’s single “Get it Girl” reached #1 on the National Country Charts . Bryce and Taylor have also garnered more than 2 million streams each as they continue to forge a path for themselves in the country music arena.

Achievements To Date:

2022 “This Summer’s The One” peaked #4 on the National Country Airplay Charts

2021 Release ‘Just Chillin”- Featured on Mainstream playlists including New Music Friday 2021 Surpassed 2,000,000 streams
2020 On The Weekend – #11 on The Music Network Country Chart
2020 Named “Artist To Watch” by Spotify

2020 Released “Do You Remember” – 400,000 Streams
2019 The Music Network Top 50 Country Chart – KIX FM Top 5 – “Never Going Back”
2019 Released “Never Going Back”, “Table For Two” and “Goodbye” – over 700,000 streams. 2018 Released “Eleven Eleven” and “Something I Want” – Top Radio Singles
2017 Nomination for CMC Award – Best New Artist

2016 Released single “STATUS” – #2 on iTunes

2014 Star Maker Top 10 Finalist
2013 Released Debut EP – Top 5 on iTunes
2013 Performed and Featured on Channel 10 tv show – What’s Up Down Under
2012 Released Debut Single “Message In A Bottle” – Top 10 on iTunes – Top 50 CMC
2012 Graduated the CMAA Academy of Country Music
2011 Winner – Todays Country 94One Brand New Star Competition

Multi-platinum, 8-time GRAMMY Award winner Carrie Underwood has today released her highly anticipated album, Denim & Rhinestones via Capitol Nashville.

Underwood co-wrote 11 of the 12 tracks on Denim & Rhinestones with many of her frequent collaborators such as David Garcia, Hillary Lindsey, Josh Miller, Ashley Gorley, Josh Kear, and Chris DeStefano, who have written many of Underwood’s biggest hits. She also welcomes more recent co-writers on the album, including Michael Hardy and Lydia Vaughan, the latter of whom co-wrote “If I Didn’t Love You,” Underwood’s multi-week #1 smash hit duet with Jason Aldean.

Denim & Rhinestones is the latest project between Underwood and David Garcia, having co-produced her critically acclaimed 2018 release, Cry Pretty, which marked the first time Underwood produced her own album. Garcia and Underwood also co-produced Underwood’s 2021 GRAMMY Award-winning album of gospel hymns, My Savior.

Underwood says of Denim & Rhinestones, “We cover a lot of ground on this album. We have a lot of songs that have a bit of a ‘throwback’ feel, but they sound super fresh. I grew up listening to so many different kinds of music and that is extremely evident in this body of work. These are musical influences that are all in me and work their way out, and I just decided this time not to get in their way. I think this whole album ended up being a big reflection of me as a person and as an artist.”

Underwood says, “After spending over two years with My Gift and My Savior, which were such passion projects and so close to my heart, putting together REFLECTION: The Las Vegas Residency was really the catalyst for this album. I was just ready to have fun and to write songs that make me happy to listen to and happy to sing.”

Discussing the title track, Underwood says, “The song ‘Denim & Rhinestones’ is super fun, with a bit of a retro vibe – we just go together, like a sweet tea and a lemon, like denim and rhinestones. You have these things that are great on their own and then you put them together and they just fit. That’s how this album feels.”

Garcia says, “Carrie is one of the greatest singers of our time. Her power and control in the studio is unparalleled. We had such a great time making this record, and it turned out exactly how we wanted it to!”

The album release comes on the heels of Underwood’s 8th GRAMMY Award win for Best Roots Gospel Album for My Savior on April 3, where she also performed the first new single from the album, “Ghost Story.”

About Carrie Underwood

Carrie Underwood is a true multi-format, multi-media superstar, spanning achievements in music, television, film, and as a New York Times bestselling author and successful entrepreneur. She has sold more than 66 million records worldwide, recorded 28 #1 singles (14 of which she co-wrote), and has seven albums that are certified Platinum or Multi-Platinum by the RIAA, all while continuing to sell out arena tours across North America, the UK and Australia. All nine of her consecutive album releases from the beginning of her career debuted #1 on the Billboard Country Chart, making her the only artist to accomplish that feat. She has won over 100 major awards including 8 GRAMMY Awards, 16 ACM Awards including three for Entertainer of the Year (the first female in history to win twice and the only female ever to win three times), 23 CMT Music Awards (holding the record for the most award wins ever for the show), 7 CMA Awards, and 17 American Music Awards. She has also built a successful business portfolio inspired by her passion for health and wellness. She founded and created the fitness and lifestyle brand, CALIA by Carrie Underwood and her first book, FIND YOUR PATH was an instant New York Times bestseller. She launched her fit52 app in 2020, and expanded her lifestyle portfolio with an equity partnership with BODYARMOR Sports Drink in 2021.

Awarded TSA New Songwriter of the year Emily Hatton, is a Melbourne-born country singer-songwriter, who brings fire and an energy to her performances that few emerging artists can replicate. Seamlessly blending country and pop stylings, her energetic presence delivers catchy hooks coupled with authentic, personal stories. Hatton is a dedicated songwriter with great emotional range. She crafts her music from places of strength to vulnerability, but all the time with heartfelt, true-to-life experience woven in to complete the storytelling.

Recently, Emily has been announced as a Top 40 finalist in this year’s Vanda and Young Global Songwriting Competition, as well as a semi-finalist in the 2020 International Songwriting Competition. She also performed in Melbourne’s Official Golden Guitar 2021 event, endorsed by the Country Music Association of Australia and the Tamworth Country Music Festival.

Before the health restrictions crippled any touring plans for 2020, Emily toured with QLD country-rock group Eight Second Ride, playing to near sellout crowds across a dozen of locations. Despite the unforeseen circumstances, nothing has stopped Hatton from releasing her debut self-titled EP (that she co-produced), which hit #4 on the Country iTunes Charts . Being dubbed “One to Watch” by the Nashville Songwriters Association as a songwriter, it’s no surprise her songs have accumulated over 100,000 organic streams across platforms, resonating with international audiences.

Following the success of “Why’d You Have to”, (#1 iTunes Country Charts; #2 AMRAP Charts, KIX Country Exclusive Premiere, Runner-Up SongTuner’s Songwriting Competition) Hatton has taken her career to a new high, being announced a Top 10 finalist in the first ever Annual Groundwater KIX Country Start competition.

Emily has also been awarded a scholarship to attend The CMAA Academy, before a string of solo shows at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, all in January 2023.

Having performed in small pubs, all the way to main stages at music festivals, Emily knows how to captivate an audience at every level, and adapt her style, to suit the ambience needed. From crowd-pleaser “bangers,” to lazy day Sunday acoustic vibes, or even the Country niche, she’s got you covered.

Emily’s new single, “Red White and Wine” is a nod to her connection to, and love of America, through family relations. The track features Katie Jayne (2022 Top 10 Starmaker finalist), and is written around the theme of the American Independence Day, 4th of July. Emily flew up to Newcastle to record with Rhys Zacher (Spinlight Studio), Tim Tricky and Lachlan (Dusty) Coffey of Hurricane Fall. Emily states, “we wanted to create something a bit unique and left of centre, paying homage to traditional Country, whilst also adding a modern flare. Tim jokingly put on an organ effect for his keys, and at first we all laughed, but then after a while, it actually grew on us; we thought it suited that big, American National Anthem-style sound incredibly well. You can hear that on the track.”

In reference to the writing process, Emily says, “This song got me through the repercussion of seclusion I felt deeply from the past two years. My lyrical brain couldn’t fathom how to channel it at first, but after 8 months of writer’s block, the floodgates opened into a catharsis of escapism – the real, raw emotions painted a story around the 4th of July – Independence Day: I drew the contrast between the epitome of the celebration of liberty, with the legal obligation at the time, not being allowed to venture outside our four walls. The most isolated feeling I ever had, became an epiphany; this was

For more than twenty years Duncan Toombs has been quietly kicking massive goals in the Australian country music industry. He’s toured and recorded with Kasey Chambers, Adam Brand and Lee Kernaghan (to name a few) and was an integral member of the Golden Guitar award winning group the Adam Eckersley Band for 3 years. He’s perhaps best known as the gifted filmmaker behind countless great music videos at The Filmery, but now he’s added one more feather to his cap, with the release of his sensational debut single, ‘Run’.

The stranger to the spotlight has announced his arrival with a good old fashioned love song. “Run is a song about my wife Amanda and I falling in love,” he grins. “I believe if you ever get the chance to find someone or something you love in this life. Hold on tight … and RUN through life!” That’s exactly how this tumbling track makes you feel – as though you’re whizzing down a highway with your hand out the window or bounding through a sun-drenched field of overgrown grass. Toombs’ warm vocal captures the sentiment perfectly and invites you on his own personal leap-of-faith journey.

The single was recorded during a two-day spell at Rod McCormack’s, The Music Cellar on the NSW Central Coast. McCormack, along with Toombs and Scott Bird produced the debut effort with a little help from some of Australia’s top hired guns. “I was extremely lucky to record this song with a bunch of incredible musicians whom I’m lucky enough to call friends,” rejoices Toombs. One such friend was the highly praised, award magnet, Matt Fell. “I was also very lucky to have Matt Fell play in the band and throw in some absolute magic.”

Toombs is only on the cusp of his solo career, yet his praises are already being sung. “He has one of the most authentic modern country sounds you’ll hear. ‘Run’ is a true reflection of this,” says the incomparable Kasey Chambers. 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!”

With 7 x Golden Guitar wins already under his belt for ‘Music Video of the Year’, along with a further 2 x Golden Guitar awards for New Talent of the Year and Best Group or Duo as an integral part of the Adam Eckerskley Band, Toombs is thrilled to be finally sharing his own songs with the world, while on tour this year. “I am so excited to be hitting the road this year touring with my long-time friend Lyn Bowtell,” confesses Toombs.” I will be putting together some of my very own showcases also.” For a long time, country music fans have had no doubt they’re in for a world class performance when Duncan Toombs is in the band – now even more so that he’s front and centre behind the mic.

‘Run’ is the first step for Toombs into uncharted territory. Yet with such a large family of industry and fans throwing their support behind him, his debut single is bound to find success. Just one of his biggest champions, Kasey Chambers, said – “many of us have been waiting for Dunc to share this other side of his talents and I’m happy & proud that the time has finally come!” With ‘Run’ being the first single to emerge from Toombs’ upcoming album, listeners ought to hold on tight, because this driven debut is just the beginning of a whirlwind of great music and stories.

Coming off of the release of their critically-acclaimed debut album Daydream, Australian pop-country trio THE BUCKLEYS have returned with a brand new single “Oops I Love You” which is available today, June 3, 2022 via Petrol Records/Universal Records/UMe. Recorded at Nashville’s iconic East Iris Studios earlier this Spring, “Oops I Love You” finds the chart-topping band in a fun-loving ,joyous playful mood. The song can be streamed/purchased here

“Interestingly, this song actually started out on bass,” says vocalist Sarah Buckley, oldest sibling to the Buckley family trio which includes Lachlan (guitars) and Molly (keyboards). “I was jamming with our youngest brother Dylan (15 yo) on drums just for fun and I started playing this bassline which you hear in the song. We kept jamming and when I brought it to Lachlan and Molly as just a bass and drum groove, they loved the direction, so we all started playing around with some ideas and the melodies started to take form.”

Traveling from their native Byron Bay, Australia to Nashville earlier this year to write and record the upcoming EP TAKE IT AS IT COMES (release date: August 5, 2022) with producer Chad Carlson (Trisha Yearwood, Taylor Swift, Lady A), Sarah pulled out the basics of the song and revisited it in the studio. “We kept it in our back pocket to show to our producer Chad where we were going. We were in the studio and I started singing ‘Oops I love you’ as the chorus and everyone picked up on it and I guess we ran with it!”

A breezy pop confection that pushes the band forward from their “Hippy Country” roots that put them on the map with their chart-topping debut album Daydream, “Oops I Love You” is further proof of their command of uptempo, feelgood beats and melodies. “What has been so great about this new project is that we’ve spent a lot of time writing together, just the three of us, and really been able to define where we want to go and want to say,” Sarah explains about the creative process. “Bringing our vision and ideas to some of our brilliant creative friends and collaborators in Nashville has given this new project a whole new grit, we feel. Walking into the studio with a cohesive vision between us is so important and being able to take that to a whole new level through collaboration is something really special.”

Proceeding to tackle the U.S. market, The Buckleys’ Stateside highlights include a performance on The ACM Weekly and add on Radio Disney Country with their single “I’m Comin’ For Ya (Love),” and a CMT Music USA add for their video “Breathe.” The band created a groundswell in their country with each of their four released singles charting in the Top Five of Australian country radio. Their first single “Daydream,” catapulted the trio into the limelight, scoring a #1 single on Australian country radio, which was followed by the second single, “I’m Comin’ For Ya (Love),” which reached #3. Their worldwide debut single “Money” reached #2 and its follow up “Breathe” at #3.

As international touring opportunities became limited in 2020, the band found another way to tap into a much larger market. The Buckleys became one of the first bands to capture a global audience in the midst of a pandemic, with their groundbreaking world virtual tour achieving a ‘virtual reach’ of more than 4.5 million. Presented by Live Nation, the world virtual tour was developed in conjunction with Live Nation and the band’s Australian label, Petrol. Performing individually curated shows in North America, Latin America, Asia, Europe, India, Middle East, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, performances were streamed on Live Nation’s Live From Home and House of Blues’ and their partners social media platforms. Through these online channels, they were able to recreate the personalized “live” experience, during a time of social distancing.

Having been away from actual touring since the start of the pandemic, The Buckleys are hoping that the release of this single and EP will herald a new beginning of exciting new music and future live performances, especially in America. “It feels like a natural evolution from where we left things off with Daydream in 2020,” Molly says excitedly, hopeful that touring can be a large part of their gameplan. Adds Lachlan, “We’ve all grown a lot as individuals, songwriters, musicians and together as a band since recording our debut album. We are experiencing a new chapter in our lives, which you hear in the music.” Optimistic and hopeful, Sarah concludes, “We really want to get out on the road, play as much as we can, meet as many people as we can and soak in all the experiences.”

Smooth soul vocalist Natalie Nicole Gilbert teams up with singer/songwriter Chris Sloan for this power packed duet version of Adele’s Easy On Me. When the song went live on SoundCloud it amassed over 16,000 streams in just the first few days.

The simmering mezzo voice of Gilbert with the tenor vibrato of Sloan melds into a perfect union that brings plenty of romance to this track about a relationship hitting hard times. Sloan’s natural sound leans rock, while Gilbert has a passion for soulful power ballads and acoustic originals. Their harmonizing rings as true as if they’d been performing together for years.

Natalie Nicole Gilbert is based in Los Angeles, with Chris Sloan in Seattle. The two have never met in person, or even hopped on a Zoom or phone call, but the way their voices melt together brings to mind the Civil Wars.

Impacting radio and available now on all major digital music outlets.

3x CCMA Award winner for Entertainer of the Year, Dallas Smith delivers his brand new single and collaboration featuring label mate and 15x CCMA Awards nominee Mackenzie Porter. The Big Loud Records international country star shares the track on the heels of his 12th chart topping hit “Hide From A Broken Heart” and recent Music Canada certifications for the Platinum certified #1 singles “Like A Man,” “Cheap Seats,” and “Side Effects ,” in addition to the #1 track “Some Things Never Change” feat. HARDY and Smith’s most recent JUNO and CCMA Award nominated album Timeless which both earned Gold certifications.

“I couldn’t be more thrilled to collaborate with MacKenzie on this song,” shares Smith. “This song is a gift written by Tom Jordan, Mitchell Thompson, Alysa Vanderheym, and Rocky Block and I’m so excited for everyone to hear it. It’s literally a ‘One Too’ hit that strikes every chord both personally and musically and I can’t think of a better duet partner to share this song with.”

“Dallas Smith and I played a show back in 2015 together,”
shared MacKenzie. “In 2016 he introduced me to my now label, producer, and manager. In 2019 he took me out on tour with him for 2 months. Many of us know Dallas as an incredible artist, but what you might not know is how much he helps other artists around him. He shares his team, his band, his knowledge and connects the dots for artists he believes in. In 2022 I somehow convinced him to sing a song with me. It’s called “ONE TOO” and I can’t wait for you to hear it.”

Last month, Smith, marked his return to Music City with a performance at the iconic Ryman Auditorium. Smith who has previously performed on the Grand Ole Opry stage, made his much-anticipated debut at the Ryman, opening for country superstar Trace Adkins.

Earlier this week, the multi-platinum JUNO Award winner kicked off the national headlining Some Things Never Change Tour with James Barker Band and special guest Meghan Patrick plus emerging country artists Shawn Austin, JoJo Mason, Kelly Prescott, and Manny Blu.

When you hear the name Billie-Jo Porter the words authentic, fun and unique all resonate with this Country music star on the rise. She’s already had a whirlwind start to 2022 as a top ten grand finalist in the Toyota Star Maker Competition, and today she releases her contagious new single, ‘More Than Friends’.

During the track’s first seconds Porter’s vocal erupts out of the speakers, saturated in a vintage-sounding delay – setting the stage for a 3-minute bop, reminiscent of 90s Sheryl Crow. The intimacy in her dulcet tones echoes her personal connection with the song’s unquestionably relatable subject matter. “More Than Friends was born out of that ‘Friend Zone’ space. Where two people are hanging out, one likes the other – then where does that lead?” muses Porter. “The idea for this song was pretty much taken from my life. I’d moved to Canada, met Kyle (my now partner) and we were hanging out as friends. It was kind of awkward as we both seemed to like each other but were not game enough to lay our cards on the table and admit it.”

Billie-Jo Porter is no stranger to the time-honoured tradition of co-writing, having written the chart-topping hit ‘Head Full of Honey’ (recorded by Andrew Swift) alongside Swift himself. When it came to penning ‘More Than Friends’ she called on wordsmith, Gretta Ziller. “[We] co-wrote ‘More Than Friends’ over a video call.” From the union of these two powerhouse females, they were bound to yield this ballsy and confident tune. “It’s from the perspective of a woman who knows what she wants and doesn’t have time for any more games”.

The Coffs Harbour local’s rising success captured the attention of multiple award-winning Shane Nicholson , who waved his producer wand over the new single. “Recording this track with Shane Nicolson was awesome! He created this upbeat track with driving guitars that makes you want to move the whole way through.” Nicholson’s gritty production certainly does the song justice, with a delightful kaleidoscope of guitar tones surrounding Porter’s soulful voice.

If the song’s sonic landscape didn’t quite transcend you to another plane of human existence, then the video clip sure will. “I love kaleidoscopes, shiny things, lazerbeams and watching old movies with retro discos. We basically put all those things in a blender and this is what came out!” exclaims Porter. Working with local filmmaker Daniel McDonald of Fifty Film and her partner Kyle (who she once again “convinced” to appear in the clip), the team has crafted a shimmering and vibrant dream; a visual rollercoaster akin to a hazy 90s acid trip.

Success has come quickly and deservedly to this new talent, with her previous two singles ‘Feels Like Us’ and ‘Eyes Wide Open’ both flying into the CountryTown Hot 50 airplay charts (#15 and #42, respectively). The former also debuted at #1 on the AMRAP Regional Airplay Chart, while both reached the #2 spot on Tamworth’s own 2TM chart. Her illustrious co-write with Andrew Swift was #2 on the Kix Hottest 20 and #7 on the CountryTown Hot 50 airplay charts. With these accolades it’s no surprise she was also named a semi-finalist of the International songwriting Competition and a finalist in the Tamworth Songwriter’s Association’s New Songwriter of the Year and Alt Country categories in 2021.

With a vibrant show as engaging as her music, Porter is keen to hit the road now that live music is well and truly back. Having cut her teeth supporting the likes of Thirsty Merc, Catherine Britt and Hussy Hicks she’s no amateur. Her appearance at Port Macquarie’s Boots and Beach Festival is not one to be missed, but just in case, she’s also got a full schedule of shows across NSW in the coming months.

Billie-Jo Porter comes exactly as advertised. No fake persona, no pretentious lyrics – just pure, unfiltered authenticity. In true coastal fashion she still finds time to hit the surf and practice yoga between writing her high-spirited love songs. With the latest, ‘More Than Friends’, she’s reminded us that, unlike the ocean wave that builds before disappearing into the sand, she’s here to stay – a most welcome fixture in the Australian Country music landscape.

For Nashville’s own new country-rock musician, Randall Lee Richards, songwriting is nothing short of a life calling.

As an artist, Richards has performed on some of the world’s most acclaimed stages including The Roxy and The Troubadour, yet his greatest success has come as a songwriter, penning tracks for artists in both Country and Pop. As an EMI/Sony Music writer, his songs have been recorded over one hundred times around the world and selling millions of copies in the process. Richards even had the distinct honor of being mentored by some of music’s most legendary icons, including Neil Diamond, Charlie Daniels, and Elton John.

Randall’s last track got over 4 million streams on TikTok alone. Awarded Platinum status from Tunecore, Randall Lee Richards is also a CMA Inductee.

“‘I Wanna Get Away With You’ shares the story of falling in love with my husband quicker than expected, after he photobombed me in a honky tonk bar on Broadway in Nashville. We dated for three weeks before I flew home to Australia. Two months later he arrived in my small town to ask me to be his girlfriend. It’s about feeling lucky in love and getting away with steeling someone’s heart.” – Katrina Burgoyne.

Described as “The Female Keith Urban” with a goal to become the first Australian female artist to make an impact on American country music in the last three decades, Katrina Burgoyne moved to Nashville in 2017 with just three suitcases, a guitar, and her little Aussie spirit.

Since releasing her debut album ‘White Flag’ in 2011, Katrina has secured four top ten singles, a top ten ARIA charting album, and two Country Music Association of Australia nominations. After moving to the USA, Katrina has opened for Lonestar, seen multiple number one’s on CMT Australia, a top four radio charting single, and has had over half a million streams.

As a songwriter, Katrina has collected indie and major label cuts across three continents (North America, Australia, and UK) and four countries (Australia, New Zealand, the USA, and Ireland). Katrina has seen her songs top the iTunes Charts in New Zealand and Australia. Additionally, topping the mainstream Shazam charts in Northern Ireland, and gaining features on playlists such as Fresh Country, New Music Nashville, and Today’s Country.

From hard-won insight, Lyn Bowtell’s new album, ‘Wiser’, was born – out Friday, May 13.

The nine-time Golden Guitar winner has more than two decades in the music industry, a swag of life experience and a passion to create songs that delve deeply into issues that truly matter to her.

‘Wiser’ gives a clear view of Bowtell as a deeply feeling and empathetic human being. A songwriter and singer whose captivating voice demands her listener’s attention, and rewards it from a depth and confidence that comes from knowing exactly who she is. After four years of collaboration, ‘Wiser’ sees Bowtell firmly back in the spotlight.

“I’m enjoying the feeling of placing myself at the focal point of my career, these days I have complete confidence in what I’m doing musically,” Bowtell said.

“I’m less influenced by the image based nature of the entertainment industry, that pressure imposed almost exclusively on female artists of having the perfect body size and being below a certain age is losing its power over me.”

The power of Bowtell’s music and the dedication of her supporters is evident in the success in the Pozible crowdfunding campaign she ran, reaching 75 per cent of her campaign target in only 24 hours and exceeding her target in less than a fortnight.

“It can be scary asking for help but I knew that to do this album justice I would have to, and I’m so glad I did because the support I received was extraordinary,” she said.

“It replenished my faith in myself, and reminded me how much goodwill there truly is towards me from people who’ve been my supporters for so long.”

‘I Won’t Do That Again’ was Bowtell’s first single from ‘Wiser’, reaching the Countrytown/Music Network’s Hottest 50 charts, and was playlisted on ABC Country and iHeart Country.

This was followed by ‘Woman to Woman’ that is climbing radio charts across the country.

The Hunter Valley based songstress said she is determined to make a mark with this album, to remind people that she’s here to create music with serious intent – all songs came from her pen, and include co-writes with Damon Morton, Kevin Bennett, Kelly Cork, Peta Cherae Peters, Felicity Urquhart, and Nashville Songwriter Danny Myrick.

The third single ‘Maryanne The Optimist’ will be released in June.

Lyn’s new Album ‘Wiser’ will be launched at Lizotte’s in Newcastle on Thursday May 12, prior to Bowtell embarking on an extensive tour throughout NSW, Queensland, Victoria and South Australia.

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

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

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

With a career spanning over two decades and this year’s Gympie Muster Ambassador, Adam Brand releases this latest single, All Or Nothing, Produced by Nashville based Luke Wooten (Dierks Bentley, Brad Paisley), the track was co-written with award winning, The Wolfe Brothers.

As Brand describes the single, “To be country, is more than just looking or sounding a certain way, it’s more than just a passing fad or a trend to be a part of….. being country is about authenticity,it’s actually living the life and values in the lyrics of our songs. So if your here for a fast buck or coz it’s the in thing right now…. Then move on, coz round here , it’s All or Nothing!”

All Or Nothing is the follow up to Adam’s Top 10 National Country Airplay single, Still The One; that song has garnerd over ½ million streams and counting. Both tracks will feature on Adam’s forthcoming new studio album release due out later this year.

Since bursting onto the scene with his celebrated self-titled debut album in 1998, Adam Brand has taken home 12 CMAA Golden Guitar Awards and netted six ARIA Award nominations. Across 15 studio albums, Adam has celebrated three platinum and five gold album certifications. Confirming Adam’s incomparable power as a fan favourite performer Australia wide, the world-beating artist has taken out seven CMC Oz Artist of the Year Awards – more than any other artist in the awards’ history.

Starting with the high-octane Built for Speedin 2002, Adam has enjoyed an unbroken string of No.1-charting ARIA Country Albums. 2020’s Speed of Life took out the No.6 spot on the overall ARIA Albums Chart, marking Adam’s sixth studio album to make the Top 10. As dozens of No.1 hit singles confirm, Adam ranks among the most successful Australian artists of all time.

A Nashville native with an unpredictable style and personality to match, hitmaker ERNEST is now turning heads on both sides of the singer-songwriter game – and his career is just getting started. Described by Music Row as “The Charmer”, ERNEST is a triple threat talent and has quickly become one of the most sought-after co-writers on Music Row.

This bright new talent fuses a broad range of influences stretching from Eminem to George Strait, and has now scored five #1 smashes with Morgan Wallen’s “More Than My Hometown,” Florida Georgia Line’s “I Love My Country,” Chris Lane’s “Big, Big Plans,” and Sam Hunt’s “Breaking Up Was Easy In The 90’s.” A MULTI-PLATINUM hit with Diplo and Wallen’s “Heartless” is also part of his growing catalog, and other notable cuts include Lane’s current single, “Fill Them Boots,” Kane Brown’s “One Mississippi,” FGL’s “Blessings,” and more – including 11 tracks on Wallen’s Dangerous: The Double Album.

As an artist, the eccentric free spirit released his vibrant debut album “Locals Only” on Big Loud Records in 2019 and followed up with the hand-on-your-heart anthems, “Cheers,” and “American Rust.” He also appeared alongside 90s country legend David Lee Murphy and Big Loud Records labelmate Ben Burgess on the HIXTAPE: Vol. 2 track “Red Dirt Clouds.” His podcast Just Being ERNEST kicked off in the spring of 2020 and has hosted big-name guests including Keith Urban, Diplo, Jason Aldean and more.

Out now, his brand-new track “Flower Shops (feat. Morgan Wallen)” charted #1 at Apple Music Country, Spotify Country, and iTunes overall upon release. Adding to this, the new single was launched at US radio in January this year and secured a phenomenal 88 first week adds, the #1 most added single of the week, and was Top 25 after just 6 weeks!

There’s no mountain too high for James Johnston. He’s just returned from performing alongside Lee Kernaghan at the 50th Tamworth Country Music Festival and Golden Guitar Awards; has amassed over 14M streams and counting; and recently celebrated his previous single ‘SMALL TOWN’ spending a remarkable 10 weeks at the #1 spot of the CountryTown Hot 50 airplay charts – an unparalleled feat for an Aussie artist in recent years. Now the breakout country star is back with his latest infectious anthem, ‘COUNTRY BOYS’.

Despite Johnston’s meteoric rise he’s still as down to earth as it gets. Raised on the outskirts of the small town of Wingham, Johnston reminisces on his humble beginnings in ‘COUNTRY BOYS’, singing, “We were building bonfires on Friday nights / we were chasing round them girls we liked.” It’s familiar territory for the ‘RAISED LIKE THAT’ singer, as he glorifies rural living. “COUNTRY BOYS is my childhood captured in a song,” beams Johnston. “From riding dirt bikes to losing summers swimming in the creek.”

Johnston’s bold and modern sound on ‘COUNTRY BOYS’ was once again forged alongside frequent collaborator, Justin Wantz (USA). Johnston and Wantz produced the track between Nashville and Australia, with Johnston bringing sought after Sydney producer, Liam Quinn (Guy Sebastian, Rita Ora), into the fold to record his vocals.

The praise for Johnston’s music from media and fans alike is evidenced by its massive success. His debut offering, ‘RAISED LIKE THAT’, reached #1 on the CountryTown Hot 50 airplay charts and has passed 11M combined streams. It’s now regarded as the fastest streamed single by an Australian Country artist ever! Its follow up, ‘SMALL TOWN’, was another home run for Johnston, reaching #1 again and holding the spot for 10 weeks, still featuring now in the Top 10.

Despite being a father to a growing family, Johnston still has time for a packed schedule of festivals throughout Australia. Appearing at Big Country Festival, Boots & Beach Festival, NQ’s Rock’n Country Music Festival, Gympie Music Muster, Savannah in the Round, and the enormous CMC Rocks, just to name a few. Johnston is set to perform to over 130 000 people across QLD, NSW and VIC in 2022.

‘COUNTRY BOYS’, unearths how truly grateful and proud Johnston is of the upbringing he was gifted. It’s the kind of sentiment his rapidly growing fan base has come to love and respect. The song’s fresh and lively sound is perfect for a bonfire party in the middle of nowhere or a much-needed road trip along some country back roads. Make no mistake – James Johnston isn’t some flash in the pan – he’s the real deal. ‘COUNTRY BOYS’ is destined to be another smash hit for this country boy.

Cowgirl Crazy is an uplifting, good time, girl’s night out on the town song! A carefree, feel good song about letting the worries of the day just melt away while hanging out with your friends. It will make you want to kick up your boots, dance till you drop and let the good times roll!

Multi award winning country singer/songwriter Paul Costa returns with new single ‘Drinkin’ Hours’.

With a mantle full of awards and many chart hits to his credit, Paul Costa has no desire to slow down, kicking off 2022 with the release of his new single ‘Drinkin’ Hours’. Set for release on Friday 25th February, this catchy track is bound to make you want to let your hair down, relax and have a drink with great company.

‘Drinkin’ Hours’ is the ultimate upbeat feel good song made for Paul Costa’s rich vocal range and masterful delivery. “Cause there’s no working during drinkin’ hours, leave it all at the door”. This rhythmic and very catchy tune has hit written all over it and will have you singing along with good friends in no time! The track was written by Bobby Tomberlin (Blake Shelton, Dolly Parton, Faith Hill), Wil Nance (George Strait, Brad Paisley, Joe Nichols) and Dan Alley.

Success is no stranger to Paul. In January 2018, during Tamworth Country Music Festival, Paul was inducted into the Country Music Hands of Fame, highlighting his successful music career. His album ‘Whisper In The Crowd’ was also named Album of the Year at the People’s Choice Awards – an award voted by fans. In addition, Paul was named a finalist for Male Artist of the Year at the prestigious CMC Music Awards.

Paul’s fifth studio album, ‘Whisper In The Crowd’, debuted at #3 on the Australian ARIA Country Album Chart. The album saw Paul in full flight both vocally and musically, showcasing a bold new sound for this world-class artist.

Always the consummate showman, Paul has built a reputation of being one of the most energetic live performers in Australian country music. He has performed at major events both locally and internationally and has had the honour of performing for our troops in East Timor in 2008 and The Middle East (Iraq) in 2019. He’s also a proud ambassador for Mission Australia and the Canberra Police and Citizens Youth Club.

In perfect timing with this release, Paul will be performing at Country By The Murray at Murray Bridge in South Australia on 26th March, alongside artists such as Lee Kernaghan, Amber Lawrence, Casey Barnes, Andrew Swift, and Jayne Denham.

One thing is certain, Paul is having far too much fun taking his brand of music to his loyal fans around the country.

Following No. 1 radio hit “Beers And Sunshine” and recent single “My Masterpiece,” three-time GRAMMY winner Darius Rucker continues to share new music as he crafts a forthcoming solo album with “Same Beer Different Problem” available everywhere now.

Written by the multi-Platinum star together with Tofer Brown, Sarah Buxton and Old Dominion’s Brad Tursi, the Ross Copperman-produced track offers a lighthearted take on the chaos of today’s world:

You got your cars without drivers, traffic’s getting worse

We’re racin’ off to space, just to get away from Earth

3G, 4G, 5G, getting even further from the OG

Granny’s eatin’ gummies, Mama’s online

All I know for sure is we’ve all lost our minds

A little bit funny, a lotta bit strange

But at the end of the day

It’s the same beer, different problem

“The line ‘a little bit funny, a lotta bit strange’ really sums up the message of this song and all of the things that make you shake your head these days,” reflects Rucker. “We had so much fun as songwriters coming up with all of those examples and putting a lighthearted spin on the craziness of the world.”

In addition to actively working on a new album, his first solo project since 2017’s critically acclaimed When Was the Last Time, Rucker also recently announced a summer run of U.S. and Canada tour dates, continuing the Darius Rucker Live tour that began earlier this year as a theater tour visiting iconic venues across the country.

The man celebrated by Billboard as “one of the most distinctive voices of country’s modern era” also recently announced the 13th annual “Darius And Friends” benefit concert set for June 6 in support of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, which will unofficially kick off the week of CMA Fest – where Rucker will also headline Nissan Stadium on June 9 – as well as his the inaugural year of his personally curated Riverfront Revival music festival in his hometown of Charleston, S.C. this October.

About Darius Rucker

Rucker first achieved multi-Platinum status in the music industry as lead singer and rhythm guitarist of the GRAMMY Award-winning band Hootie & the Blowfish, who have sold more than 25 million albums worldwide including their Diamond-certified debut Cracked Rear View, which remains among the Top 10 best-selling studio albums of all time. Since releasing his first Country album in 2008, Rucker has earned a whole new legion of fans with four No. 1 albums on the Billboard Country chart, including RIAA Platinum-certified Learn to Live and True Believers, plus 10 No. 1 singles at Country radio and 11 Gold, Platinum or multi-Platinum certified hits. Rucker was inducted as a Grand Ole Opry member in 2012 and in 2014 he won his third career GRAMMY Award for Best Solo Country Performance with his 9x Platinum version of Old Crow Medicine Show’s “Wagon Wheel,” one of the top five best-selling Country songs of all time. He co-hosted the 54th annual CMA Awards in 2020 and topped the charts at Country radio once again with “Beers And Sunshine” in 2021. Follow up single “My Masterpiece” is available everywhere now as Rucker puts the finishing touches on a forthcoming album.

As a lifelong philanthropist, Rucker co-chaired the capital campaign that generated $150 million to help build the new MUSC Shawn Jenkins Children’s Hospital in his hometown of Charleston, S.C. and has also raised millions of dollars for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital through his annual Darius & Friends benefit concert and golf tournament. Rucker has also advocated for over 200 charitable causes supporting public education and junior golf programs in South Carolina through the Hootie & the Blowfish Foundation and serves as a National Chair for the National Museum of African American Music in Nashville, Tenn.