ZFM Country

Rising Australian country artist Sammi Palinkas returns with her brand-new, uplifting single “A Little More Backroad,” a feel-good modern country anthem that celebrates home, heart, and taking the long way on purpose.Co-written with award-winning Producer  Rod McCormack (Lee Kernaghan, The Wolfe Brothers, Paul Kelly), “A Little More Backroad” blends infectious melodies with nostalgic country storytelling to deliver an upbeat, contemporary anthem full of warmth and heart – the kind of song you can’t help but sing along to on the drive home.Musically inspired by the ‘ 90s country era and the stylings of  Keith Urban,  Tim McGraw, and the timeless sentiment of John Denver’s  “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” the song is about staying connected to where you come from, no matter where life takes you. It reflects the mindset, memories, experiences and values that shape us early and continue to guide us forward.“This song isn’t about taking the fastest route – it’s about slowing down and choosing the familiar, honest road. The one that feels like home, even when you’re far from it,” Palinkas said.  “Rod and I wanted to write something that makes you want to wind down the window, sing along at the top of your lungs, and hug your friends. It’s a reminder that real silver linings are family, friends, and the people, places and values that raised you – the parts of you that stay true no matter where you are or what you’re going through.”“A Little More Backroad” is Palinkas’ first release since her highly anticipated 16-track debut album  “ No Settlin’” , released in late 2025 and named by  CountryTown as one of the  Best Australian Country Albums of 2025. Continuing her themes of empowerment, growth, resilience, and self-worth, the single sets the tone for a new creative chapter and an active release campaign that will see Palinkas deliver new music approximately every six weeks throughout 2026.The release is accompanied by a picturesque performance music video directed and edited by Palinkas herself, and cinematography by Director of Photography and longtime collaborator  Bonnie Jarrett of  BonnCreative. The music video was filmed on a backroad in Upper Plenty, Victoria, with drone cinematography by  Steve Gilbert, and marks a visual return to denim, jumpsuits and wide-open spaces for Palinkas.“I wanted this music video to celebrate small-town values and country life,” Palinkas said.  “It needed to feel simple, sun-soaked and honest, and to set the tone for all the new music I’m releasing in 2026. I fell in love with video editing last year and wanted to create a music video that brought joy to those who watch it, just like that feeling you get when you choose to take a backroad that reminds you of home.”Palinkas has already made a strong impact on Australia’s country music scene. Her debut single  “Meet in the Middle” debuted at  #3 on the Australian iTunes Country Chart and  #8 across all genres, with multiple follow-up singles landing Top 10 positions. Both  “Meet in the Middle” and  “No Settlin’” broke the  CountryTown National Airplay Top 50 and were named  semi-finalists in the International Songwriting Competition (ISC). Singles  “Don’t Blink” and  “Read Between the Lies” earned her a  “One’s to Watch” nomination from  Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI).From winning a national singing competition at just eight years old to performing at major events including the  VFLW Grand Final, Palinkas has dedicated her life to music. She has collaborated with leading songwriters across  Los Angeles, New York, and Nashville, and continues to gain recognition from respected international organisations including  NSAI and  ISC.Following a standout 2025 that included her debut album release, headline shows, and performances at major Australian country festival  Savannah in the Round (headlined by  Zac Brown Band,  Jackson Dean, and an enviable lineup of Australian country talent), Palinkas now turns her focus to a packed 2026, with more new music and tour dates on the horizon.

CASEY BARNES ENTERS POWERFUL NEW ERA WITH ANTHEMIC SINGLE “MADE FOR THIS” — OFFICIAL THEME SONG FOR NINE’S BROADCAST OF THE NRL FOR 2026 SEASON
ARIA, APRA & Golden Guitar Award-winning country artist Casey Barnes launches a bold new chapter with the release of his powerful country-rock anthem “Made For This ”, out today.The release coincides with the announcement that ‘Made For This’ has been selected as the theme song for Nine’s broadcast of the 2026 NRL season. The track will be used on all Thursday, Friday & Sunday matches across the entire 30 week season, on Nine and their affiliated stations and 9Now. Built on grit, resilience, and unshakeable belief, “Made For This” is a stadium-ready statement. A defiant anthem about coming back stronger, thriving under pressure, and proving yourself when the world says you can’t. Driven by soaring guitars, pounding drums, and an unstoppable chorus, the track captures the hunger and determination of an artist stepping fully into his moment. 

“ This song is about backing yourself when everything’s on the line,” says Barnes.“It’s about coming back from adversity, not being afraid of the challenge,and using it as fuel.” 

Co-written in Nashville with Andy Skib, Jimmy Thow, Michael Paynter and Michael DeLorenzis, “Made For This” represents a sonic and personal evolution for Barnes, fusing modern country-rock power with raw, lived-in conviction.The release also marks a brand-new chapter for Barnes, with the acclaimed artist recently signing to Community Music (part of Unified Music Group) and announcing new management with respected music manager Dan Biddle, a strategic move that sets the foundation for the next phase of his career.“Made For This” serves as a statement of a new album era, with Barnes confirming a brand-new studio album is slated for mid-2026. The release falls as Casey is preparing to rock the main stage at the iconic CMC Rocks QLD festival in Ipswich, QLD in March, followed by more festivals and a national headline tour to support the album release.With multiple Golden Guitars, an ARIA Award, major festival headlines, and a reputation for delivering electrifying live performances, Casey Barnes continues to redefine what modern Australian country music can be, now stepping onto an even bigger national and global stage. 

WAYLON WYATT & WYATT FLORES CHANNEL HEARTLAND HONESTY ON“DIDN’T FORGET”OUT TODAY VIA MUSIC SOUP/DARKROOM RECORDSWAYLON WYATT ON SELECT SUPPORT DATETO KICK OFF HEADLINE “EVERYWHERE UNDER THE SUN” NORTH AMERICAN TOUR POST EUROPEAN + AUSTRALIAN RUN

Rising country standout Waylon Wyatt joins forces with Wyatt Flores for the first time on their powerful new single, “ Didn’t Forget .” Released via Music Soup/Darkroom Records, the track brings together two of country’s most compelling young voices in a raw, harmony-driven exploration of heartbreak and betrayal. This collaboration comes full circle—Waylon attended his very first concert at Wyatt’s show in Cain’s Ballroom, Tulsa, Oklahoma, making their partnership deeply personal. Opening with a sweeping progressive guitar strum, the track immediately sets an emotional tone as Waylon’s voice delivers raw, unfiltered heartache. His performance captures the struggle of moving forward after deep betrayal, punctuated by the striking line, “I forgave, but I didn’t forget.” The song then transitions into Wyatt’s verse, where he explores the vulnerability of unresolved pain, building steadily toward a powerful electric guitar climax. Blending intensity with emotional depth, the track examines themes of love, loss, and betrayal.Waylon Wyatt says of the track:  “It was a dream to get to write a song with Wyatt Flores. My very first concert was when he played Cain’s Ballroom in Tulsa, OK. I still can’t get over it and I love this song.”Waylon’s latest release, “In Loving Melody” served as the first single from his forthcoming debut album and marks his second collaboration with acclaimed producer Ian Fitchuk (Kacey Musgraves, Maggie Rogers, Jelly Roll). A poignant meditation on love and loss, the track follows Fitchuk and Wyatt’s previous single, “Pretty Little Liar” which showcased new sonic heights.Earlier this month, Waylon supported Sam Barber on select North American dates. In March, he will head overseas for the C2C Festival in Europe, alongside headlining shows in Stockholm, Oslo, and Copenhagen, 
returning to Australia for CMC Rocks in QLD.  He’ll then hit the road on his “Everywhere Under the Sun” tour, bringing his signature storytelling and high-energy performances to audiences nationwide, with stops in Birmingham, Cleveland, and Charleston. Throughout the year, he’ll also appear at major festivals including Under the Big Sky, Railbird, Bonnaroo, and more.Waylon’s 2025 was defined by career-building moments at every turn — from standout sets at Stagecoach, Cavendish Beach Music Festival, and FairWell Festival, to opening for Zach Bryan at London’s Hyde Park. He completed his first-ever Australian tour with packed shows in Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne, and capped the year by being hand-picked as one of VEVO’s 2026 DSCVR Artists to Watch — all signalling a fast-rising trajectory and even greater momentum heading into 2026. 

SINGER/SONGWRITER CAITLYN SHADBOLT RELEASES NEW SINGLE, KITCHEN WINDOW 
Aussie country singer/songwriter, Caitlyn Shadbolt, releases her new single, Kitchen Window. An accomplished songwriter, Caitlyn penned the track alongside Gavin Carfoot; with producer Jared Adlam. This single is the follow up to her most recent singles, “Where The Lemons Grow”, “Homemade Honey”  “Wildflowers” and “Start At The Bottom”. Standby for news on Caitlyn’s forthcoming album release in 2026. Caitlyn describes the song, “I wrote Kitchen Window shortly after my parents sold our childhood home. As always, songwriting and music is how I process big life events and this song saved me a bunch of money in therapy haha! It’s a bittersweet, reflective song, reminiscing about the golden memories of childhood, and how like everything, nothing is forever – which is what makes it all the more precious.”Caitlyn Shadbolt is an Australian contemporary country artist and songwriter. A finalist in the sixth season of The ‘X Factor’ Australia (2014), Caitlyn secured a recording deal with ABC MUSIC and released her debut album,  Songs On My Sleeve (May 2017). Upon release, the album hit #1 on the ARIA Country Album chart. The first single, ‘ My Break Up Anthem’, held the #1 National Country Airplay Chart for over 8 consecutive weeks and became the 2nd most played song on Country Radio (held out of the top spot by Sam Hunt’s monster hit  ‘Body Like A Backroad’). Caitlyn was recognised for her achievements by winning the CMC Award for Best New Artist, along with a nomination for Female Artist of the Year. Since then Caitlyn has released two further albums, Stages, and her most recent “Bloom & Surrender.” 

With a #11 ARIA Country Chart debut album under their belt and 400k streams globally, Two Tone Pony have found an audience with their nostalgic country rock sound. Now the NSW based five-piece return with the freewheeling new single ‘ You Haven’t Heard of Me Yet’ – their first new music since 2024.
 
Carefree and knowingly self-aware, the new single leans into the band’s strengths: sharp storytelling and a lived-in sense of authenticity. Produced by multiple Golden Guitar Award winning producer Rod McCormack, the track feels both nostalgic and timely, capturing the spirit of chasing dreams long before the spotlight arrives.
 
“It was inspired by a simple question I was asked by a barmaid when I was staying at Perisher Valley skiing,” recalls frontman David Kirkpatrick. “She asked the question – tell me what you do again? I turned it into a country rock song that tells the story about chasing your dreams no matter what, along with some tongue in cheek observations on the music industry.”
 
Lyrically, ‘You Haven’t Heard of Me Yet’ wears its heart on its sleeve. It’s a wry snapshot of the musician’s grind – playing neighbourhood bars and measuring success in moments rather than metrics. Lines like “ You don’t make much money from a handful of streams” land with a knowing wink, while the chorus echoes quiet resilience and determination to chase “ country dreams”.
 
The accompanying music video – produced by Jeremy Minett from Eyes and Ears Creative – was filmed at Hardys Bay Club on the NSW Central Coast, a venue long considered the band’s spiritual home. The clip mirrors the song’s lyrics, while the prop department even features a cherished family relic.
 
“The video follows the song narrative of me arriving at the bar looking a bit shabby with my beat-up guitar case – actually my mother Joy’s original Martin case from 1962!”, reveals David. Shot with humour and heart, the clip celebrates the realities of grassroots music-making.
 
The release marks a renewed chapter for Two Tone Pony following a sabbatical through much of 2025. That time away saw the departure of founding member Ian Rhodes – a loss deeply felt within the band. Stepping into that space is accomplished multi-instrumentalist Brandon Smith.
 
“Ian unfortunately had to retire due to hearing concerns but Brandon on fiddle, lap steel, mandolin and guitar provides a palette of sounds and influences that open up many new possibilities and directions for the band’s songs and future direction.”
 
Beyond the music, frontman David Kirkpatrick brings a uniquely Australian depth to the band’s story. Recently appointed Australia Day Ambassador for the Shoalhaven District, David spent the role engaging with the community across Mollymook – ocean swimming, playing golf, celebrating local food, and performing the band’s breakout single, ‘A Life Well Lived’ at the official citizenship ceremony. 
 
Two Tone Pony’s ability to tell truly authentic stories continues to be the backbone of the band’s appeal. ‘You Haven’t Heard of Me Yet’ doesn’t chase trends or polish away its edges – it embraces the long road, the late nights, and the quiet belief that the next song might be the one. It’s a statement of intent from a band that knows exactly who they are – even if the rest of the world is still catching up.

Country singer/songwriter FILMORE is a boundary-pushing Missouri native who blends Country, Pop, Rock, Hip-Hop, and Latin influences into a bold, hook-driven sound. Now signed to Pitbull’s Mr. 305 Records after making history as the first independent artist on Spotify’s Hot Country cover, he channels that genre-defying vision on his fourth studio album Atypical, a 21-track project that captures both his high-octane energy and unfiltered honesty.Atypical takes its name from a fan-favorite lyric—“Anything but typical”—from his 2016 debut project Proof, a line that became a personal motto for FILMORE and a rallying cry for fans who even tattooed the words on their wrists. He views the album as the culmination of everything he has learned so far, a moment where he stops chasing outside validation and fully leans into his authentic instincts.The project marks his first full-length release with Mr. 305 Records, a partnership that grew after Pitbull’s team witnessed his explosive performance at the 2023 Barefoot Country Music Fest. Their relationship, which began with FILMORE’s 2022 single “USA” featuring Pitbull, has sharpened his versatility as a writer and performer while deepening his connection to his Colombian heritage and bilingual upbringing.Raised by a Country-loving “redneck” dad and a salsa-dancing Colombian mother, FILMORE grew up with a wildly diverse musical palette, and Atypical taps that background in a way that finally feels natural and fully realized.  He returned to a DIY mindset by building much of the album in the home studio of longtime collaborator John-Luke Carter, co-producing 16 tracks and writing every song alongside hitmakers like Trannie Anderson and Lindsay Rimes.The album opens with “Blame a Country Song,” a pounding, steel-laced anthem that celebrates Country music as the soundtrack to carefree, wild nights and sets the tone for Atypical’s shapeshifting sound. One of the most exuberant moments comes with “Yeehaw,” a steamy party track that fuses Miami swagger with Nashville twang and features Pitbull adding his verse in quintessential larger-than-life fashion.Beyond the party anthems, FILMORE leans into his introspective side on songs like “Love at First Fight,” which chronicles a toxic relationship he stayed in too long, and “Dark Side of Drinking,” a moody reflection on how heartbreak can haunt familiar bars and routines.  Elsewhere, he stretches stylistically from the synth-washed “Reality” to the horn-heavy Latin-Pop of “South On Me,” alongside acoustic and Country-Pop cuts like “Picture Perfect” and “Breakup Tattoos.”Growing up in Wildwood, Missouri, FILMORE discovered his voice in choir, studied vocal performance on scholarship at the University of Missouri, and later moved to Nashville, where he briefly lived in his car and in a shared house that doubled as a studio. His grind led to a publishing deal, opening slots for stars like Sam Hunt, a breakout with “Headlights,” and his 2020 full-length State I’m In, followed by 2023’s Mean Something.After stepping back to start a family, FILMORE returned with a sharpened vision, intent on being unapologetically himself and embracing every sound that shaped him. For anyone wanting to understand who he truly is as an artist, Atypical serves as his clearest, most comprehensive statement yet.

Award-winning country artist  Chris Chitsey releases his highly anticipated new single,  “Where Ya Been Girl,” today via  Clinetel Nashville Records, with distribution by  SONY/Orchard.Written by hitmaking heavyweights  Rhett Akins and  Ben Hayslip, two-thirds of the legendary  The Peach Pickers, “Where Ya Been Girl” marks what is widely considered Chitsey’s strongest single to date. With a songwriting pedigree that includes more than 50 No. 1 hits and countless CMA, ACM, BMI, and ASCAP honors, Akins and Hayslip have helped define modern country music and shape the careers of some of the genre’s biggest stars.Produced by acclaimed Nashville hitmaker D. Scott Miller, “Where Ya Been Girl” blends polished, contemporary country production with timeless storytelling. While The Peach Pickers are known for anthems built for Friday nights and back-road soundtracks, this release turns inward—capturing the rare, lightning-strike moment when two people connect instantly and unmistakably.”This single is not merely a love song, it is a profound musical exploration of serendipity, the resilience of the human heart and the mystery of divine timing,” says Chitsey.  “It’s about that inexplicable sensation where, despite barely knowing someone, it feels like you’ve known them for your whole life.”Rooted in the Texas honky-tonk circuit, Chitsey’s journey began on the stage of his family’s Bar-B-Q restaurant and entertainment venue in Austin, Texas. Raised on the music of George Strait, Alan Jackson, Randy Travis, Merle Haggard, Keith Whitley, Charley Pride, and Mel Tillis, his path toward country music stardom took shape early. While still in college at Southwest Texas State University, Chitsey inked his first record deal, releasing a self-titled debut album that produced three No. 1 singles and spent 18 weeks on the CMT and GAC Top 10 Countdown Shows—all while completing both his undergraduate and master’s degrees.In recent years, Chitsey has experienced a remarkable resurgence. Since signing an eight-single deal with Clinetel Nashville in 2023, he has delivered a string of global No. 1 hits, including “Last Time I Saw You,” “Life Is Hard, Whiskey Is Easy,” “Every Small Town,” and 2025’s chart-topper “Chasing Taillights.” His music has also crossed into film and television, with “Every Small Town” serving as the theme song for the streaming TV reality series  Only in Iola, where Chitsey appears across multiple seasons.Beyond the studio and stage, Chitsey’s partnerships reflect his authentic connection to craftsmanship, heritage, and lifestyle brands, including Jack Daniel’s Whiskey, Deep Eddy Vodka, Chuck Norris’s CForce Premium Artesian Water, American Hat Makers, Molly’s Custom Silver, TEXITCoin, Clinetel Nashville Records, and SONY/Orchard.Celebrated for his expressive storytelling, commanding live performances, and genuine connection with fans, Chris Chitsey continues to bridge the gap between classic and modern country music. With “Where Ya Been Girl,” he delivers a timeless anthem about timing, destiny, and connection—one that feels destined to soundtrack countless Friday nights in 2026 and beyond.“Where Ya Been Girl” is available now on all streaming and digital platforms.  For more information and updates, follow Chris Chitsey on social media, streaming services and at ChrisChitseyMusic.com.

ROBBIE MORTIMER PRIMED FOR BREAKTHROUGH YEARNew EP, single and major festival debut signal a defining year forAustralia’s rising country star
Australian country-rock artist Robbie Mortimer is stepping into 2026 as one of the genre’s most exciting emerging voices – a year marked by new music, major festival appearances and growing industry buzz that’s shaping him into the artist to watch in 2026. On March 13 2026 Mortimer will release his anticipated EP Notes From A Very Loud Mind, a bold statement that channels his energy as a frontman and storyteller. Leading the charge is the EP’s first single ‘Might Be The Night’ dropping on February 20, a love-story anthem crafted for headline-ready singalongs and festival crowds alike. Written with acclaimed Nashville songwriters including Matt McKinney, Andrew Jannakos and Alex Maxwell and produced by Jared Adlam, ‘ Might Be The Night’ track reflects Mortimer’s signature blend of high-impact hooks and heartfelt lyrics, drawing on the thrill of big moments and the belief that anything can happen when the night begins. ‘Might Be The Night’ will feature on Mortimer’s March 13 EP Notes From A Very Loud Mind, which he explains as “A deliberate statement of who I am right now as an artist and a frontman. It was written with the live stage in mind, especially high-energy environments like CMC Rocks, where songs are meant to be felt together – loud and in the moment.” Mortimer’s forthcoming CMC Rocks QLD debut – performing on both the Tailgate and Rebel stages – will mark a major milestone in his live career, introducing his latest material directly to one of Australia’s biggest country audiences. 
Backed by recent streaming success, festival slots and industry buzz, 2026 is shaping up as the year Mortimer transitions from rising talent to a breakout force in Australian country music. 

Celebrated country music group The Finleys are set to launch their highly anticipated fourth single, “Mr Wrong,” a heartfelt track that captures Col Finley’s transformation from the wild outlaw of country music to a devoted husband and father. This new release not only highlights The Finley’s growth but also takes listeners on a ride through the gritty and often tumultuous world of personal redemption.Set against the backdrop of a classic Western narrative, follows the old cowboy as he contemplates his past and faces the consequences of his choices. “Mr Wrong” vivid imagery and a compelling storyline, the songwriting trio of Mike Carr, Ian Dickson, and Col Finley expertly set the tone for this moving track. The song reflects Col Finley’s journey to conquer the “bad habits” that once defined him, ultimately allowing him to embrace a life filled with love and stability.

“I’ve got to kill MR Wrong to get Mrs Right” There are moments in my life im not too proud of, but don’t regret im so thankful for the love and patience that Nellie has for me. It gave me the chance to become a better man for her. Killing Mr Wrong wasn’t easy, but it was definitely something I had to do.Col Finley, known for his vibrant performances and unforgettable storytelling, has captivated audiences throughout his career. still characterised as “The Original Outlaw” of country music, has transformed from the life of the party, from late-night escapades and an endless cycle of drug-fuelled, boozy tours, into a mature artist who values connection and responsible living.”Mr Wrong” serves as a significant chapter in The Finley’s ongoing “Rocking Country Love Story” , as it chronicles their quest to overcome the darker aspects of life for the sake of love, particularly for his partner, Nellie. This track promises to resonate with anyone who has faced battles with their own inner demons, making it both relatable and inspiring.Media Quotes
 “Raw & honest lyrics, a relatable song for anyone who has beat the demons to win in life” 
Dan Saunders – TMFM Country Music Radio Australia“A true soundtrack to the Finley’s story, set as a Dime Novel Western, it’s a must listen
Mike Peats – U.S Country Music Journalist & Correspondent   

PIPER RODRIGUES LAUNCHES A NEW ERA WITH LATE-NIGHT COUNTRY ANTHEM “WHISKEY TALKIN’”
Piper Rodrigues is carving out her own lane in Australian country music — blending classic heartbreak with modern sparkle. A 2024 Toyota Star Maker Finalist, she’s fast  emerging as one  of the country’s most exciting rising artists. Her latest single, HEARTBRAKES, made a standout debut, landing at No. 2 on the PlayMPE charts and No. 3 on the AMRAP Metro Chart. The track has received national radio rotation on KIX Country and Triple M, alongside playlist support from Apple Music ( Aussie Country , Country Caffeine, Country Wide), cementing Piper’s growing presence across the national landscape. Known for her raw, relatable storytelling and magnetic stage presence, Piper has secured spots  on major festival lineups including Meatstock Toowoomba and Lasso Country Music Festival. Collaborations with acclaimed artists Shane Nicholson, Melanie Dyer, and Tori Forsyth further underscore her credibility and growing momentum within the industry.on, you need to know better and completely ignore it,” says Rodrigues. “Doing it for the plot comes at a cost.”“I cannot wait for what the rest of 2026 has in store, and I feel like ‘ Whiskey Talkin’ is the perfect start. I spent most of 2025 writing back and forth from Nashville, and this feels like the dawn of a new era in my sound.”