ZFM Country

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.