Festivals
Amazing First Line Up Announced For Tamworth ’24
In January 2024, Tamworth will host the nation’s largest live country music event, welcoming some of the biggest and brightest stars for a 10-day celebration. The first line up of artists and ticketed shows for the 52nd Toyota Tamworth Country Music Festival has been announced, featuring accomplished artists such as Kasey Chambers, Troy Cassar-Daley, Adam Harvey, Brooke McClymont, Adam Eckersley, Lee Kernaghan, Beccy Cole, Casey Barnes, Fanny Lumsden, Amber Lawrence, John Williamson, Graeme Connors, Andrew Swift, Ashleigh Dallas, Loren Ryan, Felicity Urquhart & Josh Cunningham, and Shane Nicholson. The Festival will kick off on 19 January 2024 with the Opening Concert in Toyota Park, followed by 10 epic nights of free entertainment and the prestigious Toyota Golden Guitar Awards on 27 January at the Tamworth Entertainment and Conference Centre.
The 52nd Toyota Tamworth Country Music Festival is scheduled to commence on 19 January 2024, commencing with the Opening Concert at Toyota Park, the festival’s largest venue. This event will feature 10 nights of remarkable entertainment, including the highly anticipated 2024 Toyota Star Maker Grand Final and the Toyota Best of the Buskers competition. Additionally, the Toyota FanZone will offer a multitude of performances by numerous artists, all free of charge, within the main Festival precinct.
One of the highlights of the festival is the esteemed Toyota Golden Guitar Awards, which will take place on Saturday 27 January at the Tamworth Entertainment and Conference Centre (TRECC). This prestigious event not only celebrates the excellence in recording within the country music industry but also showcases the finest talents in Australian country music. The evening will be hosted by the acclaimed Tania Kernaghan, a recipient of multiple Golden Guitar Awards and a nominee for the esteemed ARIA award. Joining her as co-host will be Jason Owen, a nominee for the 2014 Golden Guitar Award.
“For more than five decades, the home and heart of Australian country music has welcomed some of the country’s biggest stars and emerging talent. The Toyota Tamworth Country Music Festival is the nation’s premier country music event and we cannot wait to welcome fans and artists in January 2024.”
Barry Harley, Festival Manager
A highlight of the 2024 Toyota Tamworth Country Music Festival will be the Orchestral Country concert, which will see some of Australia’s best country stars take to the stage to perform with a 30-piece orchestra led by conductor, George Ellis. In addition to some of the Festival’s headline acts, artists also performing include ten-time Golden Guitar award winner Lyn Bowtell, 2023 Video of the Year winner Luke O’Shea, multi-Golden Guitar winner Darren Coggan and Golden Guitar winner and ARIA nominated, Catherine Britt.
Travis Collins’ One of Them Nights concert will be an epic Australia Day party, featuring country pop artist and forming member of ARIA award winning band Sheppard, Amy Sheppard, The Voice 2022 contestant Lane Pittman and emerging talent Sara Berki.
Country music icon Melinda Schneider will perform at the Capitol Theatre during the 52nd Toyota Tamworth Country Music Festival, as well as The Weeping Willows and The Whitlam’s Black Stump Band.
Moonshiners will welcome 2023 Toyota Star Maker Loren Ryan, Andrew Swift, Mickey Pye, Darlinghurst, Jake Davey, Gretta Ziller, Liam Brew, and Colin Lillie & Billie-Jo Porter. While the Longyard Hotel will see performances from Casey Barnes, The Bushwackers, Lyn Bowtell & her Famous Friends, Sara Storer, Viper Creek Band and The Pigs.
Playing at West Tamworth Leagues Club in 2024 will be headline acts Adam Harvey, Beccy Cole, Amber Lawrence and Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley, as well as Brian Cadd together with The Long and Short of It, The Hillbilly Goats, 2023 Toyota Star Maker finalist Kiara Rodrigues, Duncan Toombs, Paul Costa, festival funny man Darren Carr & Other Dummies, Amos Morris, and Doug Bruce and the Tailgaters.
The Tamworth Town Hall will host the iconic James Blundell, blues and roots duo Busby Marou and Amber Joy Poulton in Coal Miner’s Daughter, as well as the 80’s & 90’s Country Dance Party, on Monday 22 January, which will see husband and wife, Travis List and Kristy Cox return from Nashville, to perform alongside Roo Arcus, Jeremy Turner, TC Cassidy and many more to bring some country classics to life.
Toyota Australia Chief Marketing Officer, Vin Naidoo said it is an honour to be a major sponsor of the festival for the 32nd year and to support such an incredible line-up of artists.
“On behalf of Toyota Australia, we are looking forward to another summer celebrating the many talented country music artists, from rising stars to iconic country music legends, at the 2024 Toyota Country Music Festival.”
Other ticketed shows include Andy Penkow & Donella Waters, Victoria McGee, Melissa Bajric, Amber Joy Poulton & The Holy Men, Music For McGrath in aid of the McGrath Foundation, The Tamworth Opry, The Ultimate Bluegrass Pickin’ Party with Kristy Cox, The Crooked Button Band, The Golden Fiddle Awards & Showcase, Kevin Sullivan & The Sulli-Vans, The Maton Guitar Showcase, The Roy Orbison Story, Country Turns Pink Fundraiser, LBS Records Music Shows featuring Lindsay Butler and Shaza Leigh, Travellin’ Still, and Fibbers’ Charity Concert for Ronald McDonald House.
The Golden Gig, Sponsored by Macca’s young talent quest will also return for the 52nd Toyota Tamworth Country Music Festival, as well as the popular Toyota Zone and Family Zone.
The first line up of ticketed shows and the 52nd Toyota Golden Guitar Awards will go on sale on 7 July 2023, with hundreds more free and ticketed shows and venues line ups to be announced in the coming months!
Head to the Festival website www.tcmf.com.au for more information.
Latest News
Tanner Adell’s Summer Anthem “Cowboy Break My Heart
Country music sensation Tanner Adell is set to make waves this summer with her latest single, “Cowboy Break My Heart”, as the song has quickly become a fan favourite, capturing the essence of heartbreak and resilience with a catchy, upbeat melody.
Adell’s new track is a perfect blend of traditional country and modern pop influences, showcasing her unique style and vocal prowess. Written by Adell along with Akil “Worldwidefresh” King, Stephen “Di Genius” McGregor, Will Weatherly, and Anthony Germaine White, “Cowboy Break My Heart” tells the story of a love gone wrong, inspired by a past relationship with a Dallas Cowboys fan. The song’s infectious chorus and relatable lyrics make it an instant anthem for anyone who’s ever experienced heartache.
The release of “Cowboy Break My Heart” comes just in time for Adell’s highly anticipated performances at the Ridin’ Hearts festival in Sydney and Melbourne. Fans are eagerly awaiting her live renditions of the new single, which promises to be a highlight of the festival. Adell’s energetic stage presence and powerful vocals are sure to make her performances unforgettable.
Produced by LVRN Records, the single marks a significant milestone in Adell’s career. Her debut performance of the song at the BET Awards earlier this year was met with widespread acclaim, further cementing her status as a rising star in the country music scene.
As Adell prepares to take the stage at Ridin’ Hearts, “Cowboy Break My Heart” is poised to become the soundtrack of the summer, resonating with fans across Australia and beyond. With its blend of heartfelt storytelling and catchy rhythms, the song is a testament to Adell’s talent and her ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level.
Festivals
The Countdown Is On – 2 Weeks To Ridin’ Hearts ’24
With only 2 weeks to go until Ridin’ Hearts Festival makes its anticipated return to Sydney and Melbourne, the annual music event reveals a raft of new on-ground experiences and activations to knock the boots off any country music lover.
Landing at Sydney Showground on Saturday 2 November and Melbourne’s Caribbean Gardens on Sunday 3 November, Ridin’ Hearts dials up the southern charm in 2024, with festival favourites from 2023 along with a slew of brand-new delicacies to sink your teeth into.
Line Dancing makes a hotly anticipated debut in 2024, as Cowboy Disco groovers Country Club host line dancing sessions throughout the day in Sydney and Melbourne. Festivalgoers can prepare to kick up their heels, as they’re guided through two-step routines choreographed to the hottest country hits.
The new Lone Spur Tent, home of Line Dancing, will also host the Silent Disco featuring a playlist of the best new country tunes on offer plus all the classics, curated by Filtr’s Trending Country Playlist. The just-announced winner of Ridin’ Hearts’ Ridin’ Starts emerging talent initiative – Michael Honan – will make his festival debut in the Lone Spur Tent at 3:20pm. Michael impressed with his deep gritty vocal, and is sure to leave a swag of new fans in his wake!
Introducing 2024’s hottest new drinking hole, the Bulldust Bar! For anyone that fancies a taste of the signature Ride ‘Em Gambler cocktail and a game of corn hole in between sets from Cooper Alan, MacKenzie Porter and more, Bulldust has you covered.
No festival is complete without amazing food, and Ridin’ Hearts is well and truly delivering this November. In true country style, some of the best BBQ around will be available on site, with burgers, brisket and more to satisfy every craving. Special mention goes to the iconic Mary’s, who will be providing their mouthwatering must-try burgers to GA and Diamond Club ticket holders in Sydney.
Introducing another festival gem in 2024; the Sparkle Station, your one-stop glitter shop! From face gems to beard glitter, it’s guaranteed to make your photos shine.
After completely selling out of merch last year, the team at Ridin’ Hearts has expanded their official merchandise line, with even more on offer in 2024. Keep an eye out for the team favourite cow print baseball cap!
Take a stroll down Lasso Lane in between sets, to explore market stalls from independent vendors offering handmade items and chic Western fashion. You can even brand your own hat with Brixton! And don’t miss out on the iconic Aussie Footy Shorts stall, popping up in Melbourne.
Artist signings will let you get up close and personal with your favourite Ridin’ Hearts performers. Check out the timetable for Sydney and Melbourne, to make sure you snag your place in the queue!
Ridin’ Hearts is excited to announce Motherland as the official charity partner for 2024! This incredible organisation is a national charity that advocates for the emotional wellbeing of rural mothers in Australia and delivers services that help build resilience and improve mental health outcomes.
A raffle will take place in both Sydney and Melbourne, to help raise vital funds to keep Motherland making a meaningful impact, with epic prizes including a Maton guitar signed by the Ridin’ 2024 lineup, Luke Combs tickets and more..!
The Ridin’ Hearts Diamond Club will take the festival experience to the next level, offering perks to enjoy the festival in style including an exclusive bar and seating, phone charging facilities, premium toilets and powder stations to help keep the country glam on point!
With so much to explore in 2024, the just revealed Ridin’ Hearts site map is the ultimate festivalgoers guide to all the weekend’s highlights, from market stalls to the sparkle station, delectable eats and more. Keep it handy to navigate your way through the ultimate country festival experience. Check out maps for Sydney and Melbourne now.
Complete with a star-studded lineup of country music’s hottest local and international acts – featuring headliner Riley Green (USA) alongside artists sure to get you two-stepping and yeehawing; Cooper Alan (USA), Josh Ross (CAN), MacKenzie Porter (CAN), Tanner Adell (USA), Casey Barnes (AU), Austin Snell (USA), Bella Mackenzie (AU) and DJ Konsky (AU), Ridin’ Hearts 2024 is not to be missed!
Take a look at playing times for Sydney and Melbourne and plan your day!
Tickets are on sale now at ridinhearts.com and frontiertouring.com/ridinhearts.
Festivals
Groundwater Celebrates 10th Anniversary With Amazing Festival
The Groundwater Country Music Festival, held this past weekend on the stunning Gold Coast, once again solidified its reputation as one of Australia’s premier country music events. Celebrating a vibrant blend of both Australian and international country music talent, the festival drew thousands of fans for three days of high-energy performances, community spirit, and a celebration of all things country.
Now in its 10th year, the festival has become a much-anticipated fixture on the Australian music calendar, offering a unique mix of beach culture and country music that continues to attract new fans alongside devoted regulars. From October 18th to 20th, Broadbeach came alive with performances across multiple outdoor stages, with both the music and the ocean providing a picturesque backdrop.
This year’s lineup showcased some of the brightest stars in country music, including both homegrown talent and international acts. One of the weekend’s standout performances was delivered by Australian country music star Kasey Chambers, whose unmistakable voice and captivating stage presence brought the crowd to its feet. Chambers performed a set filled with hits spanning her career, including fan favorites such as “Not Pretty Enough” and “The Captain.” , as well as tracks from her new album “Backbone”. Her heartfelt delivery and ability to connect with the audience demonstrated why she remains one of Australia’s leading country music artists.
Other notable Australian acts included the rising star Brooke Schubert who delivered an electrifying performance that blended modern country with rock influences, sending waves of energy through the crowd, especially for her infectious new single “When I’m Drinkin’ I Smoke”. Shannon Noll also brought his powerful vocals and infectious energy to the stage, giving fans a thrilling live experience. His compulsory performance of “What About Me” is always a crowd favourite, encouraging festival-goers to sing along under the balmy Gold Coast skies.
The international roster didn’t disappoint either. Americana icon Jim Lauderdale, known for his traditional country sound and engaging stage persona, treated fans to a series of hits that reinforced his reputation as a world-class performer. His blend of heartfelt ballads and upbeat country anthems added an international flavour to the festival, further enriching the experience for attendees.
One of the festival’s highlights came from the emerging talent showcased throughout the weekend. Rising stars such as Josh Setterfield and Kora Naughton demonstrated the strength and diversity of Australia’s next generation of country musicians. Naughton, performing tracks including her new single, impressed with her storytelling ability and stage confidence, while Setterfield’s soaring vocals added a powerful edge to the event.
The Groundwater Country Music Festival is not just about the music, though. The festival fosters a strong sense of community, with local food stalls, artisan markets, and beachside activities creating a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. Attendees were seen enjoying laid-back picnics on the beach, while others danced barefoot in the sand, embodying the spirit of the festival, where the beach meets the beats.
“Every year this unique country festival beside the beach gets better giving the tens of thousands of fans that turn out each of the three days an unforgettable live country music experience,” Experience Gold Coast CEO John Warn said.
“The Gold Coast has such a vibrant and diverse calendar of annual events and Groundwater Country Music Festival has been a staple on that calendar for the past 11 years, attracting a dedicated community of country music fans from across the
country and overseas to the city every year. That’s great news for local businesses with the festival expected to generate more than $11 million for the Gold Coast economy this year.”
Festival Director Mark Duckworth said this year’s lineup lived up to its promise of delivering a special experience for both the country faithful but also festival goers discovering country music for the first time.
“I don’t think you could have been in Broadbeach over the past three days and not fallen in love with country music,” said Mark. “The energy of country music really took over the Gold Coast this weekend showcasing an incredible and diverse lineup of homegrown and international artists, delivering something very special for everyone. The beachside line dancing was new to our program this year and proved a huge hit with country fans of all ages, as did the corn hole and country markets.”
Despite the large crowds, the festival remained a well-organized and safe event. Security and crowd management were effective, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience for all. Local businesses also benefited from the influx of visitors, with cafes, restaurants, and shops buzzing with activity throughout the weekend.
As the final notes of the festival rang out across the Gold Coast, it was clear that Groundwater had once again succeeded in delivering an unforgettable weekend. The festival not only brought country music to the beach but also cemented its place as a unique and essential part of Australia’s music festival landscape. Fans will no doubt be counting down the days until they can return for next year’s event, when Groundwater CMF returns from 17 to 19 October 2025.
, and fans will be once again ready to celebrate their love of country music in the sun-soaked paradise that is the Gold Coast.