ZFM Country

Nashville-based Aussie artist Wesley Dean shares a special version of his new song “Blood Brothers”. This full-band rendition is a preview of the emotionally charged acoustic version that’s featured on his much-anticipated upcoming LP “Music From Crazy Hearts” out April 26th.

Dean is hot off the back of the Crazy Hearts Across America Summer Tour where he and his family drove over 5000 miles from Nashville to Los Angeles in an RV via towns steeped in musical history playing shows off the beaten track; Memphis, New Orleans, Luckenbach, Marfa, Las Vegas, and more. With a director and cameraperson in tow, the tour was recorded as part of the upcoming feature Crazy Hearts: The Documentary, where “Blood Brothers” and the other nine album tracks complement the soundscape to Dean’s own story of breaking the industry mold to carve out his name independently.

“Deep longing of nostalgia has always been a fountain of endless creativity for me, and ‘Blood Brothers’ is about a friendship from birth that was unbreakable, and then broken,” shares Dean. “The line ‘grown up problems kill off the young’ is the heart of the chorus because time’s sleight of hand can sometimes deceive the young into thinking everything lasts forever.”

“Every line in the song has a distinct lucid memory, taking me back to memories of the small country towns where I grew up. The freedom of two pre-teen boys running through paddocks and ‘getting lost in open spaces’, climbing on farm machinery, kicking the football together and talking about girls. I really wanted to convey that sentimental feeling in this song. The distant dream of two best friends who’ll always have ‘the memories of what matters the most’, because even though adulthood dissolved their connection, the imprint of their innocence still exists ‘somewhere in the corridors time’.”

Previously, Dean released “Don’t Look Back” featuring Sarah Buxton. With first single “Burn This House,” the two tracks have attracted early attention from BrooklynVegan, Whiskey Riff, Holler and more. In Australia, Dean released “Gunslinger”, a song addressing masculinity in amongst riffs that rip through your body like a 90’s rock song, but draws you in with the skill of Springsteen.

From tip to stern the Crazy Hearts pirate ship was destined to be a record for the road. Captured in just five flurried days at RCA and conjuring timeless images reminiscent of Young Guns, Dean’s basaltic, corduroy-clad voice inhabits characters here like those first popularized in Gunfighter Ballads by Marty Robbins and Johnny Cash’s “Don’t Take Your Guns to Town.” Though Dean draws effortlessly and intuitively from the archetypal well of the cowboy ballads that gave original rise to American country music, and Crazy Hearts solemnly salutes both Marty Stuart and Buck Owens with its integrity-driven narratives, this is not just a horse of a different color, but one pointed in a completely different direction. Crazy Hearts is an album full of stories that will cleave you in half, sung by a seeker’s voice that was designed to stitch you back together in a more self-sustaining style than you were wearing yourself before.

For more than a dozen years Dean’s been one of Australia’s best-known artists, armed with a larger-than-life voice that catapulted songs like “You” to the top of the charts. Even so, the Adelaide native found himself boarding an American-bound plane in early 2021 with his young family. Dean’s effortless ability to embody multiple genres, such as roots rock, soul and folk meant, after a brief hiatus from the spotlight of earlier years, Dean was able to return to music on his own terms, writing songs that mixed heartland hooks with heart-baring honesty for his previous album and American debut, “Unknown”.

Award winning country sensation Kaylee Bell today releases her new album “Nights Like This” a thrilling country pop collision featuring a blend of previously released hits and brand-new offerings that showcase the artist’s exceptional talent and diverse influences.

Recorded in the heart of country music, Nashville, by renowned producers Lindsay Rimes and Brandon Hood, the album is a testament to Bell’s songwriting prowess, with credits on every track. Bell’s melodies echo a catchy hit quality that transcends both country and commercial radio, making it a must-listen for fans of all genres.

The album caps off Bell’s most successful year to date to date, featuring a CMA Global Award, a Golden Guitar Award, her “Red” EP being certified Gold in Australia and her 2019 single “Keith” charting on the US Billboard Country Charts and being certified Gold in Aotearoa.

This is the album for the fans and Bell is under no illusion that it’s her fans who she owes a great deal of gratitude to”To be releasing music the way I want to do it and with a whole heap of new fans along for the ride is the best feeling. I’m so excited to have this full album out featuring my favourite songs I’ve ever written, and songs that have propelled me to a whole other level this past year is so exciting. We’re taking them on the road throughout New Zealand and Australia over the next few weeks and I can’t wait to share them live with all my fans” – Kaylee Bell

Album opener and new single “Take It To The Highway” is the perfect stake in the ground to set the tone of the album. Written with Lindsay Rimes and Phil Barton (co writers of hit single “Keith”) it’s a power anthem of a song that also kicks off Bell’s live show setting her up as a force to be reckoned with on the country scene.

A standout on the 11-track album is the poignant ballad “Where Were You”, where Bell unveils a softer, more vulnerable side of her vocal delivery. Drawing inspiration from 90s country ballad queens Trisha Yearwood and Faith Hill, Bell navigates emotional depths with grace and authenticity. Another one of the album’s highlights is the stripped-back version of Bell’s hit single “Keith “, following its unexpected resurgence on the US Billboard charts in late 2023 thanks to a viral moment on TikTok which saw the video of her performing it live for Keith Urban on The Voice Australia viewed over 23 million times. The organic growth of the track, now four years old, is a testament to Bell’s undeniable talent and the unwavering support of her rapidly expanding fan base.

“Nights Like This” is a rollercoaster of hits that captures Bell’s electrifying energy and spirit, mirroring her powerhouse performances on the international stage. The album is set to redefine the Country Pop landscape and solidify Kaylee Bell as a leading figure in the music industry.

With a touring drummer for a father, Larissa was raised on a tour bus surrounded by family and music. When Larissa was a toddler, she fell in love with country music as she and her father sang along to a worn-out cassette of George Strait while riding together in the combine on her family’s farm.

Since those formative years, Larissa has grown into a multi-award-winning singer/songwriter penning relatable lyrics that move the hearts of her listeners. Her distinctive voice is an easy listening standout with a sound all her own.

Mark Thornton is a multi-talented guitar player, producer, and engineer based in Nashville, Tennessee.

His experience as a professional guitarist began in the ’80s, in the Los Angeles country western scene, playing at the famous Palomino Club and the Gene Autry Western Heritage Museum. Between 1997 and up until his death in 2008, Mark was the guitar player for guitar legend Jerry Reed, recording and touring with him throughout the country. While versatile in his playing, his true strength lies in classic fingerstyle guitar (as well as a variety of classic country styles) and being a master of tasteful simplicity and tone.

His studio, Sidekick Sound, was founded in 1994 and has been graced by great pickers and players over the years, including Jerry Reed, Paul Yandell, Marty Stuart, Chris Scruggs, Wylie and the Wild West, and the Davidson Brothers. His production roster includes producing and engineering records for CMH Records, The Pickin’ On series.

He currently plays in and around Nashville with his band “The Sidekicks”, and spends the rest of his time recording, producing, and engineering great records.

Website
www.themarkthornton.com

Elyse Saunders is an award-winning country artist that’s rapidly growing her name in Canada. With over 3.5 million streams to date, Elyse has carved a path in country music with powerhouse vocals, memorable live shows, undeniable drive, and impressive songwriting abilities. As a songwriter, she’s had 12 outside song cuts this year and was rewarded for her work as a winner for CBC Toyota Searchlight song contest in 2021. She’s making huge strides in Canada while building international buzz, earning her the title of award-winning artist at the 2023 CMA Ontario awards and 3 x Mississauga Music award winner.

Now, her 2024 breakout song “Never Have I Ever” has been released to Australian radio and was co-written by Elyse and Jason Blaine at Jason’s family home in Nashville, TN. This song represents a new era of music coming from Elyse, truly highlighting the country star she is. Produced by award winning Dan Swinimer (Madeline Merlo, Tyler Joe Miller), the track highlights fiery vocals by Elyse with feature guitar solos and vocal BG’s from Jason Blaine. Catching industry buzz ahead of its release, “Never Have I Ever” was selected as a Top 10 Country finalist for Nashville’s 2023 Unsigned Only competition and now marks her first hit as a top 40 Canadian chart topping single and still climbing.

With what could be his biggest single to date, Casey Barnes makes an early stamp on 2024 by releasing the foot stomping new anthem “Mayday”. Following an ARIA in 2022 and a dominant 2023 that included chart topping singles and Golden Guitar wins for Toyota Album of the year and Highest Selling Country Album of the Year. Casey is propelling to new heights with this fresh new single, bigger live stages and an album announcement right around the corner.

“Mayday” follows singles such as “Miracles”, “Never Give Up On A Good Time” and “Boys Like Me” all of which have taken their place at #1 on the CountryTown National Airplay Charts, and all expected to make their way into Casey’s next studio album this Autumn.

Co-written with the world renowned Morgan Evans he states: “We had fun writing Mayday and you can probably hear that in the record! I feel like it really captures Casey’s energy and I can’t wait to see him play it live!” Along with Casey’s comments: “Last year while I was in Nashville the opportunity came up to co-write with Morgan Evans and ‘Mayday’ was the little gem that transpired from that session. I think we both knew instantly that the song was a standout to the point where I remember Morgan saying something like ‘if you don’t cut this single, I will’. And, providing the extra flair, New York producer Andrew Maury (Kacey Musgraves, Lizzo, Shawn Mendes) jumped on the mixing adding brand new elements that turn Mayday into a real earworm.

“When it came to finishing the new album what I was really searching for was that one massive anthem on the record, that was going to jump out at fans and also be great for our live show too” Casey mentions as big festival shows such as CMC Rocks and Stagecoach (Indio, CA) are just around the corner. Soon to be a staple and crowd favourite on the live stage.

Brian Cadd Releases Second Single ‘The One That Got Away’ Ahead Of New Album ‘Dream Train.’

Australian country-rock pioneer, Brian Cadd, is set to captivate fans once again following the January release of his single ‘You Know What To Say’, with his latest single, ‘The One That Got Away,’ released on Friday March 8, 2024. This compelling track serves as a precursor to his forthcoming album, ‘Dream Train,’ which is now available for pre-order and is scheduled for release on Friday, April 5.

Cadd, a trailblazer in the realm of country music, reflects on his musical journey with a sense of fulfilment and excitement as he unveils his latest masterpiece, ‘Dream Train.’ After decades of shaping the landscape of Australian music, Cadd returns to his roots with an album that pays homage to the genre he has always cherished.

“I should have done this 30 years ago.”

‘Dream Train’ represents a culmination of Cadd’s prolific career, drawing inspiration from his rich experiences as a country-rock pioneer in Australia and his tenure in Nashville, the heart of country music.

Commenting on the release of ‘The One That Got Away,’ Cadd shares, “If ‘Let Go’ has a much younger sibling, it is ‘The One That Got Away.’ Born fifty years apart, they share the same parents; all the beautiful slow country songs I fell in love with over the years that talk about powerful personal events and feelings.”

‘Dream Train’ marks Cadd’s first album in five years, following the critically acclaimed ‘Silver City’ in 2019. Robert Rigby, Managing Director of Ambition Entertainment, expresses enthusiasm about Cadd’s return, stating, “We are thrilled to have such a legendary and fine artist on the Ambition label. Brian Cadd has been making music for over six decades. He is truly Australian music industry royalty.”

Renowned for his exceptional song writing prowess, Cadd’s illustrious career has left an indelible mark on the global music scene. His songs, including classics such as ‘Let Go,’ ‘Ginger Man,’ and ‘A Little Ray Of Sunshine,’ have been embraced by audiences worldwide, earning him accolades and recognition from peers and fans alike.

Cadd and his band of ‘naughty musicians’ featuring Pete Robinson on guitar, John Creech on drums, Paul Cartwright on bass, Shane Reilly on pedal steel and Clare O’Meara on fiddle, will launch ‘Dream Train’ with an exclusive Melbourne performance on Friday April 5. They will perform songs from Brian’s forthcoming album ‘Dream Train,’ as well as hits and favourites at Caddo’s most-loved Melbourne venue, Memo Music Hall in St Kilda.

Mercury Nashville / Range Music recording artist Luke Grimes has released his debut full-length album, Luke Grimes. Produced by Dave Cobb, of the album’s 13 songs, ten were co-written by Grimes who “has repeatedly proved that he’s a for-real country artist” according to MusicRow.

“…Grimes demonstrates a kind of creative range associated with artists in their veterancy.” – Associated Press

“Grimes embodies the late 80s new-traditionalists as much as the 70s outlaw greats” – Holler

“His gritty voice a superb vessel for songs including ‘Oh Ohio’ and his debut single

‘No Horse to Ride.'” – Billboard

“Turns out Kayce Dutton [“Yellowstone”] really can sing, without any hint of put-on twang.” – Rolling Stone

“It is a heartfelt neo-traditional country ballad, where Grimes showcases his rich,

rumbling voice.” – Digital Journal

“Grime’s raspy, but versatile, voice that truly marked him as one to watch…” – Desert Sun

Luke Grimes Album Track Listing

Burn (Luke Grimes, Randy Montana, Josh Thompson)
Playin’ On The Tracks (Luke Grimes, Brent Cobb)
Hold On (Foy Vance, Ilsey Juber)
Black Powder (Luke Grimes, Brian Allen, Dave Cobb, Chris Powell)
Ghost Of Who We Were (Luke Grimes, Rodney Clawson, Nicolle Galyon)
Oh Ohio (Luke Grimes, Jessi Alexander, Jon Randall)
God And A Girl (Tucker Beathard, Dillon James, Jason Nix)
What Angels Do (Luke Grimes, Ryan Beaver, Bart Butler)
No Horse To Ride (Luke Grimes, Tony Lane, Jonathan Singleton)
Wait For The Rain To Die Down (Luke Grimes, Hillary Lindsey, Lori McKenna, Liz Rose)
Ain’t Dead Yet (Luke Grimes, Aaron Raitiere)
South On 75 (Luke Grimes, Brent Cobb, Dave Cobb, Aaron Raitiere)
Worst Of Me (Hayes Carll)

About Luke Grimes

Luke Grimes is a natural-born creative: an actor, musician, singer, and songwriter who releases his self-titled debut album on March 8. Luke Grimes, produced by Dave Cobb (Chris Stapleton) arrives on the heels of Grimes’ gritty, acclaimed 2023 EP, Pain Pills or Pews, and features 13 tracks. Ten songs were co-written by Grimes, including “No Horse to Ride,” which debuted at No. 7 on the Country Songs sales chart in 2022 and accumulated 43.3M release-to-date global on-demand streams. Spotify highlighted the song on the cover of its Country Hits 2023 playlist, with the song in the No. 1 position. Grimes’ recording of “Hold On,” a highlight of Pain Pills or Pews that also appears on Luke Grimes, has amassed 27.4M global streams, adding to Grimes’ nearly 105M total global streams to date of all his music.

Known for his role as Kayce Dutton on the hit TV drama Yellowstone, Grimes grew up in Ohio playing music in the church and listening to the Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, and Waylon Jennings records his father played him. Later, he moved to L.A. and joined an Americana band as its drummer before relocating to Montana, where Yellowstone films. Now writing in Nashville with hit songwriters like Rodney Clawson, Nicolle Galyon, the Love Junkies, Aaron Raitiere, and Brent Cobb, Grimes is sharing his personal story – of the loss of his father and meeting his wife – with country fans.

In 2023 he played upwards of 20 festivals, including Stagecoach, Pilgrimage Music and Cultural Festival, and Under the Big Sky Festival, and headlined his own sold-out tour. Grimes will make a return to Stagecoach in April 2024 with his highly anticipated full-length album under his belt.

From the Country Music Capital of Australia, Tamworth, Lane Pittman bulldozed through 2023. Now, he is skyrocketing into 2024 with the release of his self-titled EP – “Lane Pittman” with lead track “Let’s Get Lost”, an upbeat and joyous number that transports any listener to an open road in a 4×4. Since supporting Luke Combs on his sold out Australian arena tour, Lane has been on a roll with no signs of slowing down. Selling out his headline show at this year’s Tamworth Country Music Festival, nominated for the Golden Guitar New Talent of the Year award and CMC Rocks just around the corner, the timing and excitement surrounding the EP couldn’t be higher.

Familiar songs such as “Love In A Country Town” and ” Ain’t Too Much To Ask” feature in the six track EP and have already seen great success on the CountryTown National Airplay Charts (Love In A Country Town #4 and Ain’t Too Much To Ask #6 ) as well as streaming worldwide over 1.1M times.

Lane describes, “This EP is very much a long time coming for me. I’ve wanted to put music out for as long as I can remember, I just never felt like I had anything to say. That is until we recorded these songs. “Lane Pittman” is a pretty bold statement for a title but I think it’s appropriate, this EP is me. It’s who I am at this early stage, these stories are real, authentic and relatable to me. I’ve loved everything to do with making this EP and I hope the audience will connect to these the same way I have!”

Opening the EP is focus single ” Let’s Get Lots”; captivating, punchy and kick ass drums all throughout. “I love the vibe and almost carefree nature of this song! It’s about not taking it too seriously and living in the moment. Recording this song was a breeze and I loved every second of it. I don’t think there’s a song I’d rather launch the EP with than this one”, Lane shares. Written by U.S legends Eric Paslay, Daniel Ross and Andy Albert and produced by Red Curl and Greg Stace, “Let’s Get Lost ” on the surface is adventurous and carefree, yet also, a subtle reminder not to take life, or yourself too seriously – take a step back and get lost.

Canadian Country Singer-Songwriter Jason Kirkness Returns In 2024 With ‘Right Where I Want You’.

With two successful Australian releases under his belt, Canadian country singer-songwriter Jason Kirkness returns to drop a new single ‘Right Where I Want You’.

After enjoying a remarkable 2023 including incredible accolades such as winner of the Manitoba Country Music Association ‘Male Artist Of The Year’ to a massive 18 weeks on the Top 40 Canadian Billboard Charts and Top 100 Music Row, Jason is starting off 2024 with a bang with the infectious track ‘Right Where I Want You’.

“Reflecting on the romantic and personal challenges of my past and the obstacles I have overcome, I am always aware of how blessed I have been to continue to create some of the best music of my career.” Jason Kirkness

With ‘Right Where I Want You’, Jason continues to share pieces of his heart through music, inviting listeners to connect with music and lyrics. His sincere approach to songwriting and his genuine love for the craft shine though in every note, reminding us of the power of music to unite and uplift.

As he looks ahead to the release of his forthcoming album ‘What Got Me Here’, Jason Kirkness remains grateful for the journey that has brought him to this point. With a deep appreciation for the support of his fans, which includes his new Australian fanbase, and the opportunity to share the music with the world, he humbly invites listeners to join him on the next chapter of his musical adventure – a journey filled with honesty, humility, and an unwavering commitment to the craft he loves.

Jason will be hitting Australian shores for a promo tour from 14th – 20th April to promote ‘Right Where I Want You’ traveling from Sydney to Brisbane and return.

Jason Kirkness’ new single ‘Right Where I Want You’ is out at Australian radio on Monday 11th March.