Month: June 2023

Celebrated Country music duo, Brooke McClymont & Adam Eckersley, have today released their second album, Up Down & Sideways.

Following on from 2018’s Adam & Brooke – their first album together, Up Down & Sideways is a celebration of the ups and downs of real life and real love. Produced by Robby De Sa (Gretta Ray, The McClymonts, Tina Arena) the album’s magic lies in the dynamic interplay between the couple’s distinct yet complementary musical tastes and relevance of their stories and song writing; which has also resulted in award-winning successes and a special connection with live audiences and listeners across the country.

Brooke McClymont shares, “This is chalk and cheese from the first album and I feel like we’ve got the best of both of us on there. We’ve met in the middle with our influences, put them in a blender and come up with this and we feel like this album stamps a moment in time.

“We want people to feel like we’re sitting there around their fire and sharing their problems and life with them. We want the songs to have a place in their lives.”

This idea ultimately became a reality, as Adam and Brooke aimed to bring their fans closer to their music and to their fire during times of personal and global turmoil. Faced with months of no touring, the birth of a child and the loss of a loved one, they saw it even more important to connect with their audience and share relatable stories of hardship and joy – with a whole lot of fun thrown in.

The album is led by the single ‘ What Are You Waiting For ‘, which was written when Brooke and Adam went to Sydney for a co-write, couldn’t find a park and wondered who could live in the middle of Sydney. It was all they could think about when they went into the writing room; and this song could be the new anthem for a regional tourism campaign.

In addition to the new single, Up, Down & Sideways also includes, ‘Wild Side ‘, which is a song written through COVID when Brooke and Adam could only party with each other, but realised they were pretty good at it; and ‘Rock Bottom’, which came at a point when the couple thought that they might have been drinking too much, and felt it was healthy to check in with themselves and get back in control. This song is a reminder to have those moments.

The track ‘High On A Monday ‘ is self-explanatory and even comes with its own explicit language warning. Being touring musicians, the couple has their weekends on a Monday and this song just reminds us all that people are always telling us what we should and shouldn’t do and offering unwanted advice… This is the song to tell them what to do with their opinions and to live your life your way.

The album also features an introspective, but very relatable track called ‘Don’t Give Up On Me Yet’, which was another one written through COVID when everyone was going through ups and downs and struggling. Brooke and Adam are easy-going, but they admit they have their “moments” together, especially during the lockdowns. This song says that they know they’re not the person they want to be at the moment, but asks their partner not to give up on them yet because they know they’re going to do better.

The tracklist is rounded out with their previously released singles, ‘Lost If I Lost You’, ‘ Country Music, You & Beer ‘, ‘Memory Lane’, ‘Roll On Baby’, and the winner of the Golden Guitar APRA AMCOS Song of The Year, ‘Star Of The Show’.

ABOUT BROOKE MCCLYMONT & ADAM ECKERSLEY

Releasing their debut album as the duo Adam & Brooke in 2018, the #1 ARIA Country Album was received rapturously within the country community, garnering accolades and awards all over.

Taking home three awards from their four nominations at the 51st Golden Guitars awards this year, Brooke and Adam topped the night by winning the Song of the Year for their single ‘Star of the Show’.

They also won the Apple Music Single of the Year for their song ‘Memory Lane’ and the award for Country Music Capital News Group or Duo of the Year – bringing their total of Golden Guitar Award wins to 20 across their career.

Their daughter, 10-year-old Tiggy Heart Eckersley, also became the youngest person in history to be recognised with a Golden Guitar Award, sharing the Song of the Year win with her parents and Dan Biederman as fellow songwriters.

Shane Douthwright is excited to release “The Weekend” for summer 2023.

This Country release is an upbeat sing-along song that will get you ready for summer and your weekend.

Shane recently completed a solo Country music four-week contract on the Oasis Of The Seas with Royal Caribbean where he was able to showcase some of his newly penned songs and was extremely well received by the guests.

Shane holds a very busy schedule with 66 shows booked for the months of July and August. You can see Shane at the Down River Music Festival as well as Levee on The Lake and Rogersville Bluegrass Festival along with many other venues throughout NB and PEI.

The song is about how in this fast paced, here today, gone tomorrow world, two people can find each other against all odds, and build a beautiful life together. As Brand describes his single, “It’s crazy to think that two people who are complete opposites can come together and find love, so don’t give up, they could be just around the corner!”

Reflecting on his own life Brand writes in this song, “Now we’re talking, Bout a baby girl, We’re gonna bring into the world, She’s gonna wrap me round her pretty little finger like her mumma does…and she does.”

Anyone who knows Brand, knows how his daughters Pepper and Connie have had a profound effect on his life and as always, his life and heart are proudly pinned to his sleeve in this beautifully written song dedicated to anyone who has found true love against all odds.

Adam Brand’s career has spanned three decades, 15 studio albums, multiple #1 singles and full length releases.

Singer Songwriter Mel Lukin Delivers An Important Message In Her New Single ‘Look Up’.

Talented Queensland based singer-songwriter Mel Lukin is set to make her mark in 2023 with a fresh wave of music, a revamped image and a contagious positive energy.

Her new offering, ‘Look Up’ is a feel-good country track that incorporates harmonic flavours, showcasing her unique style while staying true to her musical roots. In this song, Lukin explores the impact of social media, screens, and the digital age on today’s young people and society as a whole. With heartfelt lyrics and a compelling message, ‘Look Up’ urges listeners to break free from the digital distractions and reconnect with the world around them. Lukin’s powerful vocals and emotive delivery bring the song to life, making it a captivating anthem that resonates with listeners of all ages. With its timely and thought-provoking subject matter ‘Look Up’ is poised to make waves on the airwaves, reminding us all to embrace the present moment and cherish the real connections in our lives. Get ready to be swept away by this enchanting country track that invites us to rediscover the beauty of the world when we simply take the time to “Look Up”.

“I wrote this song with talented songwriter, Nolan Wynne’ in May of last year. We sat down together and just started chatting about life as you do when starting the writing process. He has young girls also, and we shared common experiences and concerns which made writing this song so fulfilling. I had the title ‘Look Up’ and the concept for a quite a while, and Nolan and I rounded it out together and created the song ‘Look Up’. Currently, kids and teens hardly engage in face-to-face conversations, and is crucial for us to help our youth in redirecting their attention towards the real world. Together, let’s encourage our young people to “Look Up”. This song means so much to me personally and it’s my honest to date”.

Mel is no stranger to the music industry. Her debut single ‘On The Water’ released in 2020 was featured in the HBO US TV series ‘Almost Paradise’ while her song ‘Caught Up In A Dream’ made waves on radio charts in 2021, with the music video also featured on Foxtel’s CMT. Earlier this year she unveiled her latest single ‘One Way Ticket’ further solidifying her growing popularity. Inspired by artists such as Martina McBride, Trisha Yearwood, The Chicks and Faith Hill, Mel’s captivating vocals and uplifting messages shine through in her releases.

Mel’s musical prowess and narrative storytelling have earned her praise from festival-goers. She has performed alongside renowned artists like Brad Butcher, Matt Cornell and James Blundell at events like ‘Country on Keppel’ as well as the inaugural ‘Down on the Farm’ festival.

Mel Lukin offers an uplifting musical experience with catchy melodies and an irresistible island party ambiance. Her positive energy and melodic charm create a world of good vibes and memorable tunes for her listeners. Stay tuned for show announcements to promote Mel’s 2023 releases.

Mel Lukin’s new single ‘Look Up’ is out at radio on Monday 26th June and all digital services Friday 30th June.

Gritty Southern Queensland-based country artist, Jeremy Turner, has dropped his mighty debut commercial single, She Keeps Comin’ Around, available for airplay and out now across streaming platforms.

She Keeps Comin’ Around is the first in a series of singles to come from Jeremy Turner, an exciting new talent on the Australian country music landscape. Written by Jason Matthews, Johnny Bulford, and Aussie ex-pat, Phil Barton, the track was also produced by Phil Barton along with Brad Winters and mastered at Georgetown by Andrew Darby.

She Keeps Comin’ Around has all the earmarks of rocking, modern country, and tells the story of a dysfunctional relationship, where neither party can let it go. Each time he tries to make a break, she opens the door again, and they are drawn back together. As one line in the song states, “Old habits die hard in the moonlight.”

Described as a little rough around the edges, but with a heart of gold and a voice to match, Turner is winning over fans at a record pace. With the release of She Keeps Comin’ Around and an action-packed schedule on the radar well into 2024, his support (and star) is sure to continue to rise.

ABOUT JEREMY

Jeremy Turner is a gritty singer-songwriter originally from Murwillumbah, NSW, but now calls Queensland home. While he may list his address in Fernvale in Southern Queensland, Turner embodies the lifestyle of a traveling musician, spending most of the year on the road, taking his sound to his supporter base.

His love of country music has already seen him tour extensively between Australia, New Zealand, and even the USA. He has spent many years mastering his craft as a storyteller, grinding away at the things that make him tick, writing, recording, and performing music.

Turner lists his inspiration as artists including Cody Johnson, Leanne Womack and Keith Urban, an eclectic mix of artists to be sure, but just like Jeremy, there is something for everyone within.

“We all dream about finding our forever person, doing life together in your own way in your own time. That is the essence of ‘A Little Piece of Your Heart’. Young love that defies the odds, ignores outside noise and grows in love and life together, knowing from a young age that true love can lead the way and conquer all obstacles, finding true happiness, your way, together, forever.” JD Reynolds

ABOUT
The world of country music is paying attention to country music artist JD Reynolds. Her most recent release ‘8 Seconds’ hit the #1 spot on Australian Country radio and rotation on KIXFM, an achievement for a 100% independent artist.

The singer, songwriter and award-winning choreographer was embraced by the world of Professional Bull Riding with her powerful ‘8 Seconds’. So much so within 24 hours of the PBR announcement that JD was performing live the event SOLD OUT. It was the only PBR SOLD OUT event in 2022.

She has graced the cover of Nashville Country Music Magazine and the pages of ‘Cowboys and Indians’ Magazine, being called ‘Country’s new ‘it’ girl. For a new artist JD has achieved millions of streams with ‘Whatever’ and ‘Rebound’.
‘Whatever’ hit #5 on KIX’s Hottest 20 and #8 on Australia’s Country Music charts and made the Hottest 50 songs of 2021. ‘Whatever’ caused a stir when the video premiered on Country Rebel to over 8,000,000 viewers. The big US outlets NEWSMAX, Country Rebel and Guitar Girl Magazine were all wanting to know Country’s ‘it’ girl. She has her own country genre ‘The JD Sound’. Speaking with JD LIVE with over 3 million viewers in New York, NEWSMAX told JD she has ‘a lot of attention’ .

After Platinum Records, the esteemed record label and artist development company, proudly announces the signing of rising country artist Alex Mather. With a track record of nurturing and propelling numerous platinum-selling artists, writers, and producers, and boasting collaborations with industry powerhouses such as Drake, Diddy, and Lil Wayne, After Platinum is now venturing into the world of country music by joining forces with the exceptionally gifted Alex Mather. After Platinum’s CEO, Ernie Romero, shared enthusiastic remarks regarding the signing of Alex Mather, stating, “Alex is an exceptional talent that rarely emerges -a rare convergence of remarkable talents, unwavering work ethic, and boundless ambition. We are absolutely thrilled to introduce his extraordinary gifts to the world and embark on this remarkable journey together.”

Alex Mather, the rising star from Australia, has taken his music career to new heights producing three consecutive hits. Building on this incredible success, he has now exhilarated fans by announcing the release of his highly anticipated debut EP, titled “The Long Way Home.” The EP showcases Alex’s unique artistry and undeniable talent, capturing the essence of country music while bringing his own flair to the genre. The EP features his latest single, “By My Side,” which follows Alex’s debut single, “That Summer.” The latter has already garnered tremendous excitement within the country music community, quickly approaching 1,000,000 streams.

Alex Mather had the opportunity to collaborate with some of Nashville’s most sought-after musicians and producers on “The Long Way Home”. Working alongside industry veterans such as Jimmy Ritchey, Charlie Judge, Jimmy Lee Sloas, Shannon Forrest, B James, Mark Hill, and Sol Philcox has been an incredible experience for Alex. Reflecting on this collaboration, Alex shared, “It’s a surreal experience collaborating with my musical heroes. These guys are legends, having contributed to the creation of timeless masterpieces, spanning from the iconic works such as Alan Jackson and Keith Urban to some of today’s greats like Morgan Wallen and Luke Combs. Having them on our team, shaping our record, is an incredible blessing.”

The highly anticipated single, “By My Side,” is live on all platforms, along with its accompanying official music video. Directed by the renowned Nashville director Randy Shaffer, the video promises to be a visual treat for Alex’s fans and music enthusiasts worldwide. Randy Shaffer expressed his excitement, stating, “I am beyond excited to unveil the ‘By My Side’ music video to

Alex’s dedicated fans and the global audience. Being a part of this project has been an absolute joy, and I firmly believe it injects an abundance of infectious fun into the song. In a world that can always benefit from more joy, this video is a true celebration!”

In support of his latest releases, Alex Mather gears up for his Australian tour, commencing in Sydney on August 19th, 2023, and followed by an exciting lineup of shows in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, before heading to the US. As After Platinum and Alex Mather continue to push boundaries and explore new horizons, this collaboration promises to be a remarkable journey in country music. Be sure to catch the new release, “By My Side” and the official music video as Alex Mather’s star continues to rise.

Rising country artist and songwriter Sammi Palinkas has released her new single “Meet in the Middle”, a contemporary country track that showcases her powerful vocals and heartfelt songwriting.

Sammi’s journey in the music industry began at a young age, winning a national televised singing competition at the age of 8 and starring in the Melbourne season of “Annie ” at the age of 11. Over the years, she has developed her craft and collaborated with renowned songwriters and producers in the US, including Andrew Bolooki, Fiona Kernaghan, and Templeton Thompson.

Now, she’s ready to take the Australian country music scene by storm with her new single, “Meet in the Middle”. Co-written with Sally Barris and award-winning producer Rod McCormack, the song is a modern take on the classic love story of opposites attracting and the importance of compromise in relationships.

“Rod, Sally and I had so much fun writing this song”, Palinkas says. “Trying to capture how the natural give and take that happens in relationships makes the most unlikely scenarios work. “Meet me in the middle” is such a common phrase when you’re trying to compromise or negotiate with someone, and in relationships I think there’s an enormous amount of joy and growth that comes in accepting and celebrating those differences in one another, and discovering those things in common that you meet in the middle on. Shania Twain is a big inspiration of mine, and she was a stylistic influence when writing this song – everything from her contemporary take on country, relatability and even how fashion-forward she is (“You can wear your boots, I’ll keep wearing Gucci”). I really hope it is a song that resonates with others because they feel the same way”.

Musical influences are evident in her dynamic vocal range and powerful stage presence, drawing inspiration from Shania Twain, Keith Urban, Carly Pearce, LeAnn Rimes, and Carrie Underwood.

“What an exciting time it is in Australian country music right now. There’s so many talented new artists bursting onto the scene and Sammi is certainly one to pay very close attention to. I was lucky enough to get a sneak peek of her debut track ‘Meet In The Middle’ and if this is where it’s starting it’s going to be really exciting to watch her career develop! ‘Meet In The Middle’ is just a great vibe all round, and I think we’re going to be hearing it all over the radio and from festival stages very soon! She’s the real deal and can’t wait to see it all happen for her!” – Nick Wolfe, The Wolfe Brothers

Gritty Southern Queensland-based country artist, Jeremy Turner, has dropped his mighty debut commercial single, She Keeps Comin’ Around, available for airplay and out now across streaming platforms.

She Keeps Comin’ Around is the first in a series of singles to come from Jeremy Turner, an exciting new talent on the Australian country music landscape. Written by Jason Matthews, Johnny Bulford, and Aussie ex-pat, Phil Barton, the track was also produced by Phil Barton along with Brad Winters and mastered at Georgetown by Andrew Darby.

She Keeps Comin’ Around has all the earmarks of rocking, modern country, and tells the story of a dysfunctional relationship, where neither party can let it go. Each time he tries to make a break, she opens the door again, and they are drawn back together. As one line in the song states, “Old habits die hard in the moonlight.”

Described as a little rough around the edges, but with a heart of gold and a voice to match, Turner is winning over fans at a record pace. With the release of She Keeps Comin’ Around and an action-packed schedule on the radar well into 2024, his support (and star) is sure to continue to rise.

ABOUT JEREMY

Jeremy Turner is a gritty singer-songwriter originally from Murwillumbah, NSW, but now calls Queensland home. While he may list his address in Fernvale in Southern Queensland, Turner embodies the lifestyle of a traveling musician, spending most of the year on the road, taking his sound to his supporter base.

His love of country music has already seen him tour extensively between Australia, New Zealand, and even the USA. He has spent many years mastering his craft as a storyteller, grinding away at the things that make him tick, writing, recording, and performing music.

Turner lists his inspiration as artists including Cody Johnson, Leanne Womack and Keith Urban, an eclectic mix of artists to be sure, but just like Jeremy, there is something for everyone within.

Singer-Songwriter Claudia Tripp Returns With New Pop/Country Release ‘I’m Never Drinking Again’.

Rising singer-songwriter Claudia Tripp has been creating waves in the Australian pop country scene in recent years and is set to do it again with her highly anticipated new single “I’m Never Drinking Again”. Putting a country twist on the relatable phrase, this upbeat heartbreak-anthem features massive production with emotional and powerful vocals.

“I’m Never Drinking Again was a song title idea I held with me for a long time, loving that it’s been said by almost everyone. When I brought the song to Rachael and MSquared, this song gained a whole new life. True, raw heartbreak can manifest itself into the things you love and hurt you all over again. I’ve been there; I’ve tasted a drink, heard a song, had something I used to love hit me like a ton of bricks in the wake of a heartbreak. I hope anyone who relates to this song is comforted by this; in the same we say this phrase hungover on a Monday morning, and then find ourselves having a beverage the following weekend, one day you’ll be able to love and enjoy those painful things without that person, no matter how much you think “I’m Never Drinking Again”.

The past 12 months have been a whirlwind for this rising country pop sensation. From the release of ‘I Only Miss You When I’m Drunk’ which was favoured by Australian Radio including KIX Country where it reached #19 on the Hottest 20 Charts. The track garnered attention on Spotify’s editorial playlist ‘Fresh Country’ where it has gained 217,000 spins to date and was featured on Apple Music’s ‘Aussie Country’, ‘Lil Bit Country’ and ‘Country Risers’. Claudia went on to feature on the cover of YouTube’s ‘Incoming Country’.

A finalist in the Top 10 of Toyota Starmaker 2023 gave Claudia invaluable exposure performing on the main stage at Toyota Park during Tamworth Country Music Festival and has since performed on The Ravo Blues & Roots Festival and on the massive ‘The Muster Perth’ line-up (alongside Lee Kernaghan, Casey Barnes, Kasey Chambers and Amy Sheppard) as well as supporting Travis Collins on his recent Perth tour.

Claudia’s catalogue of songs has been described as having ‘honest and powerful lyrics, where Nashville country sound meets LA pop hooks’. Constantly performing headlining shows, has seen Claudia’s dedicated fanbase grow.

Expect more from this exciting young performer who is firmly cementing herself in the contemporary pop/country world while carving out her own authentic path.

Claudia Tripp’s new single ‘I’m Never Drinking Again’ is out to radio on 19th June and on digital platforms on 23rd June.