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Kirsty Lee Akers is in her Cowgirl Era with… GIRLS ARE WHY THE WEST IS WILD

In the realm where melodies meet magic, 2 time Golden Guitar winner and star of The Block – Kirsty Lee Akers strides forth in her Cowgirl Era, a spirit woven with threads of the wild frontier.

Welcoming the dawn of 2024, Kirsty unveils her latest ode, “Girls Are Why The West Is Wild.” A song for the cowgirls, the untamed hearts and the daring souls who roam free.

Penned in Nashville alongside hit songwriters Kirsti Manna and Bill DiLuigi, this anthem marries grit with grace. “In June of last year, I attended a co-writing session in Nashville. Arriving a little early, I found Bill DiLuigi already there. Although we had just met, it was clear that Bill had done his homework and understood me as an artist. While waiting for Kirsti to join us, Bill shared an idea he had, which I instantly loved. Before long, we had a chorus ready. When Kirsti arrived, she quickly added her touch of magic,” Kirsty shares.

Once again, Kirsty steps into the producer’s role alongside co-producer Paul Bain to breathe life into this track. With the banjo strings harmonizing with Kirsty’s vocals, creating a blend reminiscent of Dolly Parton and Lainey Wilson, each listener is sure to remember the moment when they first heard “Girls Are Why The West Is Wild.”

“Girls Are Why The West Is Wild” is now available for streaming on all platforms.

Renowned country artists The Bellamy Brothers and Gene Watson have joined together for a cover of the duo’s “Forever Ain’t Long Enough.” With a combined total of numerous No. 1 singles, this trio has released a “sublimely country (MusicRow)” version, which is sure to delight country music fans.

Originally released in 1990 on the Bellamy Brothers’ 14th studio album, Reality Check, this beloved song is now being reintroduced to fans as a powerful duet, given a fresh new twist with the addition of Gene Watson’s vocals. For David Bellamy, the song holds a special significance as he explains, “I wrote the song in the style of real classic country. I wanted it to sound like something that came from the Countrypolitan era, and of course, everlasting love is a favorite subject of every songwriter.”

Working with the “Love in the Hot Afternoon” singer then made sense, given their shared admiration for classicism within the country genre. “Having Gene duet with us on the song was a dream come true,” David shares. “He’s one of the few real classic country singers that understands songs like this.” Watson himself says he “was flattered” to be tapped for the new rendition, and adds that he appreciates how it feels like “real country music.”

www.bellamybrothers.com

One of the most compelling aspects of Niki Small’s emergence with her Woodward Avenue Records debut, The Chase, is the fact that she didn’t take her first singing lesson until age 25. She spent some years in Southern California making connections and honing her vocals and her craft as a songwriter before the opportunity presented itself to record an album showcasing her multitude of talents. Yet from the poetic, scene setting opening lines of her sultry, whimsically romantic debut single (the collection’s title track), those soulful, smooth vocals seem so at home amidst the bluesy, jazzy, country and Americana-tinged vibes created by producer Paul Brown and his L.A. based ensemble, that it feels like she’s a natural who’s been doing it all her life.

Written by Niki and produced and mixed by Brown – who also contributes one of his trademark edgy, crying blues guitar solos after the second chorus – “The Chase” reveals the singer as a dynamic storyteller, drawing us into a fun, freewheeling world with her lover under pink skies and street lights, where “the wind is slipping through our hair,” they’re engulfed in a wave “big enough to share” and they’re laughing and kissing under the stars. When she gets to the chorus, we learn that it’s not all that serious, but more like a glorious, sunsplashed summer fling: “Hearts beating like crazy, like they’re in a race/But I don’t care about the finish line/Baby, I’m just here for the chase…” The exciting hook finds her repeating “the chase” several times, adding wordless vocal textures for emphasis as the music and easy groove breezes along. She even shows a bit of a humorous dark edge when, in Verse 2, she sings, “I can’t tell if what I’m feeling is from the shit we’re smokin’ or somewhere far beyond…”

Listeners who take every word Niki sings literally will enjoy a fun, lighthearted summery country tune with some clever turns of phrase. What’s ironic, however, is that “The Chase” doubles as an emphatic mission statement about her long term, slow building approach to her career – and that’s something she takes very seriously. Explaining the essential romantic storyline, she says, “The song is about fun and the thrill of falling in love without caring how it turns out or where it might lead.” Diving into its deeper meaning, she adds, “The song is very much about both love and my career to this point. The lyrics relate to my ups and downs in the industry. I just knew I wanted to write songs, sing and follow wherever that desire would take me. I believe life is one percent about getting where you want to be and 99 percent experiencing life along the way.”

Niki has called The Chase (the album) a collaborative effort based on her engagement with Brown and the dynamic crew of L.A. musicians who on the title track create a cool, laid-back foundation featuring Shane Theriot’s subtle rhythm guitar and Marco Basci’s bluesy old school keyboard accents. The rhythm section features bassist Bob Glaub and drummer Tony Braunagel.

While Niki showcases the full range of her talents throughout the collection – including her Linda Ronstadt like ability to recreate classic and obscure older songs in her own style – “The Chase” offers a splendid intro to her beautiful vocal vibe and incredible songwriting skills.

• Jonathan Widran

Brad Cole, an Australian contemporary country musician, calls the outskirts of southern Sydney home. With a polished sound blending contemporary country with catchy hooks and melodic structures, Cole’s music appeals to a wide age range, encompassing both male and female listeners.

Cole is excited and grateful for the opportunity to share his music with audiences in the US and beyond. He is eager to see his brand of contemporary country embraced worldwide.

His talent has earned him recognition, notably as a finalist at the esteemed Australian APRA Awards for ‘Most Played Country Music Work on Australian Radio & TV’. Notably, he was the sole independent and self-published artist nominated for this honor, reflecting his esteemed status within the Australian music scene. Cole and his band have graced major country music festivals and events in Australia, and his performances have been featured on Australian television, including collaborations with the cast of ‘Dancing With The Stars’.

“Hold Me In Your Arms Tonight” is a contemporary country ballad crafted for female listeners, delving into themes of love’s ups and downs, ultimately finding solace in the arms of true love.

Acclaimed country-pop sensation, Hayley Jensen, is back, fiercer than ever, with her latest offering, “Stomping Ground” out now via MGM Distribution. This foot-stomping anthem promises to set airwaves on fire & ignite festival stages.

Produced by the award-winning production team MSquared (Casey Barnes, Zac & George, Kaylee Bell, James Johnston) and co-written by Jensen alongside Troy Kokol and Alexandra Adamoski (Alee), “Stomping Ground” is a catchy, high-octane celebration of freedom & friendship. The lyrics paint vivid scenes of late-night escapades and carefree revelry that transport listeners to a world where gravel roads lead to unforgettable nights. With its infectious energy “Stomping Ground” is destined to become a staple in country-pop playlists.

As a two-time CMAA Golden Guitar Finalist for ‘Female Artist of the Year’ in 2022 & 2023, and the recipient of the ICMA ‘Most Popular Female Artist’ Award in 2024, Jensen’s trajectory in the industry is on the rise. No stranger to the spotlight, she first shot to fame two decades ago as a Top 4 finalist on the 2nd Season of ‘Australian Idol’, and later made a ‘chair turning’ return to the small screen on ‘The Voice’ where she was dubbed ‘the whole package’ by her coach, Kylie Minogue.

A powerhouse vocalist and dynamite live performer, Hayley’s made waves headlining her own shows as well as festival stages both here in Australia and abroad, including headlining the main stage at Tamworth Country Music Festival, Gympie Music Muster, Charters Towers Country Music Festival (headliner), Deni Ute Muster, PBR Australia Events & Festivals plus many more. Abroad, she’s performed at the Calgary Stampede & Dauphins CountryFest in Canada, Buckle & Boots Country Festival in the UK, and various performances in the US.

Her previous album, “Breakin’ Hearts” soared to the top of the ARIA Charts as the #1 Country Album, and featured eight hit radio singles including the title track, “Karma”and “Better Than That”. “Breakin’ Hearts” was the #1 Australian song on the official CountryTown radio airplay charts & added to Spotify’s ‘Fresh Country’ playlist. It was also one the most played songs on SiriusXM (CBC Music now Top of the Country) on digital radio across North America.

After navigating a tumultuous period, marked by the departure from her previous (now defunct) record label, Jensen has emerged stronger than ever. Reclaiming her narrative with the relaunch of her own label, “White Dove Music” and collaborating with an exceptional new team, including esteemed photographer and creative director Michelle Pitiris – “She is Aphrodite”, known for her recent work photographing Taylor Swift live for Rolling Stone Magazine, and Michael Paynter and Michael DeLorenzis at MSquared Productions, Jensen is poised to light up the airwaves.

“Working alongside MSquared on the production of “Stomping Ground” was an absolute dream. Their passion and creativity breathed life into every note and lyric, taking the song to new heights. Together, with Troy & Alee, I feel we’ve crafted a track that embodies the spirit of adventure and the joy of living in the moment, and I’m so excited to get it out there! Aesthetically, it was also amazing to collaborate with the incredible Michelle (“She is Aphrodiete”). I’ve admired her work for so long and I really feel like we captured the visuals perfectly which has elevated the entire project. All of these new creative partnerships have really inspired me as an artist, and I’m excited to continue working together in the future. Yes! There is more on the way!” says, Hayley.

THE HONOURABLE ANTHONY ALBANESE MP PRIME MINISTER OF
AUSTRALIA LAUNCHES “ALMOST ANZAC DAY”
JAMES BLUNDELL’S BRILLIANT NEW SINGLE
IN SUPPORT OF VETERANS AND THEIR FAMILIES

I was raised a country boy, cattle, and cane
I fought the war on terror, then they put me on a plane
We came back in pieces, none of us the same
Every night I’m drowning in the blood of Baghdad rain.

This Friday 9:45am April 12, The Honourable Anthony Albanese MP Prime Minister of Australia will launch “Almost Anzac Day”, James Blundell’s brilliant new single, in support of veterans and their families, at Hyde Park Anzac Memorial Auditorium in Sydney. “Almost Anzac Day” is a powerful poignant anthem for and about our times. James will premiere the song live, accompanied by guitar, piano and a string quartet at the Auditorium.

The launch MC will be Senator Anne Urquhart . Other speakers include:

Tim Cuming, head of SMEAC, a not-for-profit Veterans for Veterans organisation
Amanda Young, General Sales Manager KIX Country Radio Network,
Judy Smith Manager James Blundell Music – and acknowledgement of the support of Aussie Legends Hemp in co-creating the Wonderwheel Music label distributed by MGM.

James Blundell is one of the most influential Australian male country artists of his generation with a career spanning 34 years, 14 studio albums, multiple CMAA Golden Guitar Awards, and inductions to the CMAA Roll of Renown and the CMC Hall of Fame.

“Almost Anzac Day” is the third single from Blundell’s forthcoming album “World Don’t Stop”. It was recorded and produced in upstate New York by the Grammy-winning team of Larry Campbell and Justin Guip and written by Terry McArthur and Mika Koukkanen. “James is a master storyteller and we felt this was one story he would absolutely resonate with,” says Terry McArthur.

“Even though they had no knowledge of Anzac Day, the entire ensemble declared this is an anthem! My vocals were recorded as the track went down. I remember feeling incredibly uplifted by and connected to the music…and the lyrics are so strong. All I had to do was fall into the moment and let the story come through” says James recalling the recording of the song.

All proceeds from the sale of the single will be donated to SMEAC. “James Blundell has always been a great Australian, and a staunch supporter of the Defence Force and its Veterans. His generous donation of the royalties from his latest single will assist SMEAC to provide accommodation, food, medical services, and support to all veterans in need especially veterans in crisis situations such as homeless veterans,” says Tim Cuming.

Almost Anzac Day is also the soundtrack for a series of KIX Country Community Service Announcements voiced by James that will promote awareness of “Open Arms” a 24-hour free support and counselling services available to veterans and their families

When multi-PLATINUM duo The Reklaws and international breakout artist Drake Milligan teamed up for their newest single “Honky Tonkin’ About,” traveling to Romania to film a music video on the Paramount film set wasn’t something any of the Country artists expected. But when the opportunity presented itself, the country artists booked the first flight. The music video is a visual masterpiece, so keep an eye out for cameos from some of Hollywood’s most iconic actors. As The Reklaws and Drake embrace their country roots with swoon-worthy harmonies, the video delivers the rowdy Reklaws party with a timeless twist that captures the spirit of honky-tonk traditions.

Directed by Mac Grant, Chad Tennies and Ben Knechtel, with executive producer Leslie Greif, the music video takes viewers on an exhilarating journey into an 1800s honky tonk. The video features star-studded guest appearances from Christopher McDonald (Happy Gilmore), Robert Knepper (Prison Break), and Mary-Louise Parker (Weeds). The video was shot on location in Romania on the set of The Grey House (Kevin Costner, Morgan Freeman) with an Oscar award-winning team.

The music video for “Honky Tonkin’ About” whisks viewers on a “back to the future” adventure. The story unfolds in the present day, with The Reklaws waiting for their ride in front of a venue. But instead of a modern-day rideshare, a horse and carriage arrives, driven by none other than Christopher McDonald. This journey transports them back in time to the town’s watering hole, where they introduce “new country” music to a crowd of bewildered and curious 1800s revelers.

“We wanted our fans to feel like they’re watching a movie, and that’s exactly what this is! The work put in by the directors, actors, and performers was truly remarkable to witness, and even more incredible to be a part of,” shares Jenna and Stuart of The Reklaws. “Going to Romania for the music video was a once-in-a-lifetime adventure and having Drake Milligan join us made it even more unforgettable. We are so thankful for the opportunity from Leslie Greif, and it is such a treat to deliver something so fresh and unique to our fans.”

“I was honoured when The Reklaws reached out about featuring me on their song ‘Honky Tonkin’ About’,” shares Milligan. “They are wonderful artists and became fast friends through this process. I hope our fans have as much fun watching this music video as we had filming it!”

Written by The Reklaws’ Stuart Walker, Blake Redferrin (Florida Georgia Line), Thomas “Tawgs” Salter (Josh Groban, Hunter Hayes) and Callum Maudsley, the track came together as the group dreamed of being able to get back into bars and onto stages during wide-spread lockdowns in 2021. “We were trying to pull ourselves out of a funk one day during the pandemic so we sat down and thought about what we would want to party to at a honky tonk on a Friday night with our friends. From those daydreams, this song was born,” shared Stuart Walker.

Since the track released earlier this summer, critical acclaim for the boot-stomping tune has rolled in, with Billboard tapping it a “hard charging, rousing track” and Country Now adding it’s a “rowdy tune with the kind of grit that gets country music lovers on their feet.” As “Honky Tonkin’ About” continues to gain momentum, already sitting inside the Top 10 at country radio, The Reklaws and Milligan took their collaboration to centre stage at the 2023 Canadian Country Music Awards, where The Reklaws hosted the national broadcast, before taking home the award for Top Selling Canadian Album for their 2022 album, Good Ol’ Days.

ABOUT THE REKLAWS:

The Reklaws are a one-of-a-kind duo made up of siblings Jenna and Stuart Walker, proud to bring the party to every stage they stand on. The Reklaws found breakout success with their debut single “Long Live the Night,” the most-streamed domestic song of all Canadian country artists and theme song for the CFL Thursday Night Football national broadcast in 2018/2019. 2021 was a record-breaking year for the duo when their viral TikTok hit “What the Truck” earned PLATINUM-certification, making it the fastest-ever Canadian country song to go PLATINUM in the streaming era. The pair kicked off 2023 by securing three coveted JUNO nominations for TikTok JUNO Fan’s Choice, Group or Duo of the Year and Country Album of the Year. They recently hosted the 2023 CCMA Awards on CTV, winning Top Selling Canadian Album for their 2022 release Good Ol’ Days, after taking home wins in 2022 for the second consecutive year for Top Selling Canadian Single (“What the Truck” feat. SACHA) and Group or Duo of the Year.

The Reklaws hold 8 JUNO nominations, 8 CCMA Awards, 3 #1s at Canadian Radio, 2 DOUBLE PLATINUM, 8 PLATINUM and 13 GOLD singles and a GOLD-certified debut album (Freshman Year). In addition, the pair have 300M+ Global Streams, 6 of the top 20 streamed singles by a Canadian country artist since 2019 (more than any other artist) and the most domestically streamed debut album in Canadian country history. Listen to their new single “Honky Tonkin’ About” with Drake Milligan out everywhere now.

ABOUT DRAKE MILLIGAN:

Drake Milligan burst onto the national music stage entering the Billboard Emerging Artists Chart at #5 after dominating iTunes with his debut album Dallas/Fort Worth, charting back-to-back #1 hits on the iTunes CountrySongs Chart, #1 on iTunes All-Genre Chart and reclaimed the #1 spot on iTunes Country Albums Chart, all while simultaneously holding positions #1, #2, #3 and #5 on iTunes Country Video Chart. In the UK, Milligan’s debut album spent 11 consecutive weeks in the Top 20 of the Official Country Artists Albums Chart. A student of classic Country music with the swagger of early Rock ‘n’ Roll, the Fort Worth, Texas native is an electrifying entertainer who is packing Country fans into clubs’ night after night on tour. Milligan cites George Strait and Elvis Presley-the King of Country and the King of Rock ‘n’ Roll-as musical heroes. His unique twist of traditional Country has been embraced by fans, peers, and the media alike. Milligan has performed on The Kelly Clarkson Show, The Grand Ole Opry, Stagecoach, and CMA Music Festival. He has earned high praise from People, BBC, USA Today, Parade, American Songwriter, CMT.com, Billboard, ET, Access Hollywood, Cosmopolitan, Cowgirl Magazine, and Taste of Country. Following his debut album, co-produced by award-winning Tony Brown and Brandon Hood, the Stoney Creek Records artist is back with new music, dropping the good-time, romantic tune “I Got A Problem” that he performed on NBC’s highest rated show America’s Got Talent the week before he performed his fun-loving duet “Honky Tonkin’ About” with Canadian supergroup The Reklaws at the 2023 Canadian Country Music Awards.

Canadian Country Pop Sensation Petric Take On Tina Turner Classic ‘The Best’.

Canadian powerhouse trio Petric have electrified audiences once again with their latest release, a reimagined rendition of Tina Turner’s timeless hit ‘The Best’. Following their highly successful tour of Australia in 2023, which garnered rave reviews and solidified their growing fanbase abroad, the Manitoba based act continues to push the boundaries of their genre with this exciting new offering, that arrives just in time for Mother’s Day.

“The Best is one of the greatest love songs of all time. We have been playing this song in our set for years, and it’s always been a great part of the show. We had been talking about recording the song for a few years, and really love what we were able to do with it in the studio”.

‘The Best’ is also the lead single from their brand-new EP ‘EP’ due for release on 15th April.

“It’s been a few years since we’ve put out more than just a single. The band has some shows this summer that we’re really excited about, and we want to play these songs at these shows! We figured it would make sense to share them with the world. There is lots of energy in these songs, and we are hopeful everyone loves listening to them and singing along, as much as we love performing them”.

Known for their dynamic performances and infectious melodies, Petric have captivated audiences worldwide with their unique blend of country charm and pop sensibility. With ‘The Best’, they pay homage to a legendary track while infusing it with their own distinctive style, creating a fresh and irresistible sound that is sure to resonate with both long-time fans and new listeners alike.

A music video will accompany the release and promises to capture the hearts of fans once again with its relatable moments that beautifully capture the essence of human connection.

“A few years ago, we filmed a video for our song ‘Safe With Me’, which told the story about a boy and his dog. To this day, we still get people commenting on it and messaging us about it and how they loved the relationship we showcased in that video. We wanted to hit people the same way with this video. We wanted real, relatable emotions. The story about a single mom raising her song felt like an opportunity to do that. Massive credit goes to Brett Anderson and Brendan Keck who helped bring this vision to life. It’s also a very special video to me as my son Presley, and Jordan’s son Atlas were able to make their acting debut. The video definitely goes out to all the wonderful moms who raise us up!” Jason Petric.

Petric have released a succession of successful singles in Australia including ‘Déjà Vu’, ‘KIDS’, ‘White Lyin’, ‘Night Up’, ‘Beach Please’ and the Australian Top 23 chart-topping single ‘Flirtin’. (with Hayley Jensen). ‘The Best’ is the follow up to their highly successful 2023 release ‘Single Problem’ with award winning Australian country artist Christie Lamb.

Petric’s new single ‘The Best’ is out at radio on Friday 12th April and the EP ‘EP’ on all digital services on Monday 15th April.

Dolly Parton’s reimagined version of her friend and fellow Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, Tom Petty’s “Southern Accents” from the forthcoming Petty Country: A Country Music Celebration of Tom Petty was just released alongside a premiere of the music video on CBS Mornings’ as part of the show’s “What to Watch” segment.

“I was fortunate enough to get to know Tom over the years,” reflects Parton. “He’s such an iconic artist and important songwriter. I’m so honored to be a part of this special album and to be able to share my version of one of Tom’s best songs, ‘Southern Accents’.”

The beloved song-a Petty classic and considered by Petty to be one of the best he ever wrote-takes on new life in the world of Country music as Parton’s beautifully intimate version arrives alongside a new video directed by Trey Fanjoy, featuring poignant home videos and professional footage of Petty throughout his life-watch HERE.

“Southern Accents” comes ahead of Petty Country: A Country Music Celebration of Tom Petty, the Country tribute album lovingly curated by some of the late rocker’s closest friends and collaborators. The album is officially set to be released on June 21 (via Big Machine Records in partnership with the Tom Petty Estate) and is available to pre-order now HERE.

Executive produced by Petty’s close confidant, GRAMMY® Award-winner George Drakoulias (Barbie, The Black Crowes, Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers), with Randall Poster (Killers of the Flower Moon, Skyfall, Wes Anderson) and Scott Borchetta (Big Machine Label Group) Petty Country finds some of the most lauded voices in Country music exploring the extensive Petty catalog and putting their own personal touches on some of his greatest hits. Highlights include a handful of songs by Petty’s longtime friends and collaborators, such as George Strait, Steve Earle, Willie Nelson with Lukas Nelson, Bluegrass pioneer Marty Stuart and The Heartbreakers’ Mike Campbell and Benmont Tench. Contemporary Country superstars Luke Combs, Chris Stapleton, Carly Pearce, Lady A, Margo Price, Rhiannon Giddens-who most recently played banjo and viola on Beyoncé’s “Texas Hold ‘Em”- Thomas Rhett, Wynonna Judd and Lainey Wilson pay tribute to the late rocker with their own spin on fan favorites. See below for a complete track list for Petty Country.

” Southern Accents” follows the release of Dierks Bentley’s take on the all-time classic, “American Girl,” which became Bentley’s highest charting single raced up the charts upon launch at Country radio and is currently climbing through the Top 40. Praised for “spright banjo, mandolin and guitar fusions” that “meld perfectly with Bentley’s own grainy, Rock-leaning vocal” (Billboard), the track has garnered more than 3.4 million streams.

Tom Petty, albeit widely known for his rocker grit and California anthems, is often credited as Contemporary Country music’s biggest Rock influence. A Gainesville, Florida native, Petty straddled the American coasts, leaving his native Florida for his adopted home of Los Angeles, while keeping one foot firmly rooted in the south. The region’s influence can be heard throughout Petty’s discography, with lyrics about growing up in the south paired with his famous airtight melodies and rough vocal character that defines the state of Country music today.

Petty’s deep roots in Country music saw collaborations and long-lasting friendships with a number of the genre’s greatest artists, including Carl Perkins (Petty inducted Perkins into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame), Johnny Cash (The Heartbreakers were the backing band on Cash’s Unchained), June Carter Cash, Marty Stuart, John Prine, Dolly Parton, Tammy Wynette, George Strait, Hank Williams Jr. and Willie Nelson included. Today, Country songwriters consistently reference their love and admiration for Petty, and in many ways, how Petty’s influence shaped their own sound.

Over his 40-year career, Tom Petty became one of the biggest cultural icons in the world. In addition to the 13 studio albums he made with the Heartbreakers, Petty recorded three solo albums, including the acclaimed Full Moon Fever and Wildflowers. Petty was also a member of the supergroup, Traveling Wilburys, alongside George Harrison, Bob Dylan, Roy Orbison and Jeff Lynne; and in the pre-Heartbreakers band, Mudcrutch. Hailed as one of the greatest Rock artists of all time, Petty’s list of achievements included: being a multi-platinum ARIA accredited artist, multi-Grammy Award winner, performing to over 140 million fans and selling over 85 million records, Super Bowl halftime performer, Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee. Tom Petty passed away in 2017 shortly after completing his 40th anniversary tour, but his music continues to reach fans, both new and old, around the world today.

About Petty Country:

Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers was one of the most singular and distinctly American bands. Beyond the west coast Rock-Folk jangle, San Francisco psychedelia and a blast of British invasion, the south’s influence was a constant throughout Petty’s songwriting in his words, truths and especially his defiance and dignity. Petty Country: A Country Celebration of Tom Petty draws on all the aspects and flavors of the Gainesville-raised icon’s roots and leans into the genre that defines the region, bringing the top talent in Country and Americana music together to create a 20-song tribute to Petty’s dynamic musical legacy (out June 21 via Big Machine Records). Executive produced by Scott Borchetta (Big Machine Label Group), George Drakoulias (Tom Petty & The Heartbreakers, The Black Crowes) and Randall Poster (Wes Anderson, Skyfall) with the oversite of the late icon’s daughter, Adria Petty, the collection pulls from across various realms and seasons of music to create a full picture of Petty’s impressive catalog. Artists lending their talents to the project include: Dierks Bentley, Brothers Osborne, Luke Combs, Steve Earle, Wynonna Judd, Lady A, Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, Carly Pearce, Thomas Rhettt, George Strait, Chris Stapleton, Lainey Wilson and many more. True to the originals, true to what those songs could be, Petty Country, like Traveling Wilburys, shows vast the influence and reach of the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee and highlights the previously unseen breadth and Country reach of Petty’s songs.

“The sound and style of Petty reverberates irrepressibly throughout country music,
where he holds more sway than any other rocker.”

Kirsty Lee Akers is in her Cowgirl Era with… GIRLS ARE WHY THE WEST IS WILD

In the realm where melodies meet magic, 2 time Golden Guitar winner and star of The Block – Kirsty Lee Akers strides forth in her Cowgirl Era, a spirit woven with threads of the wild frontier.

Welcoming the dawn of 2024, Kirsty unveils her latest ode, “Girls Are Why The West Is Wild.” A song for the cowgirls, the untamed hearts and the daring souls who roam free.

Penned in Nashville alongside hit songwriters Kirsti Manna and Bill DiLuigi, this anthem marries grit with grace. “In June of last year, I attended a co-writing session in Nashville. Arriving a little early, I found Bill DiLuigi already there. Although we had just met, it was clear that Bill had done his homework and understood me as an artist. While waiting for Kirsti to join us, Bill shared an idea he had, which I instantly loved. Before long, we had a chorus ready. When Kirsti arrived, she quickly added her touch of magic,” Kirsty shares.

Once again, Kirsty steps into the producer’s role alongside co-producer Paul Bain to breathe life into this track. With the banjo strings harmonizing with Kirsty’s vocals, creating a blend reminiscent of Dolly Parton and Lainey Wilson, each listener is sure to remember the moment when they first heard “Girls Are Why The West Is Wild.”