Calling all emerging Aussie country artists - Ridin' Hearts wants YOU! We’re beyond excited to launch Ridin’ Starts 2025. In partnership with APRA AMCOS, we’re searching nationwide for the brightest up-and-coming talent in Australian country music.  

After a record number of entries in 2024, Ridin’ Starts is bringing the premier artist-first program back, connecting local talent with top industry experts, offering exclusive experiences, insights, and career-shaping opportunities, along with a host of money-can’t-buy experiences.  

Designed to spotlight the future stars of country, Ridin’ Starts equips artists with the tools, insights and connections they need to thrive in one of the fastest-growing genres on the planet. 

So saddle up – your moment starts here. 

With an incredible prize package on offer, one lucky emerging star will win a 20-minute set on the Lone Spur Stage at Ridin’ Hearts 2025, one-on-one meetings with industry leaders like Michael Chugg (Chugg Entertainment & Chugg Music), artist James Johnston, songwriter Tom Jordan, Natalie Waller (ABC Music) and more, design a custom merch piece with Love Police, receive a $200 voucher from Ringers Western and walk away with professional press shots, a content package capturing their festival experience and a tour pass to see some of the biggest names in country music live. Plus, travel and accommodation provided thanks to APRA AMCOS! 

Launched in 2024, the inaugural Ridin’ Starts winner was rising country singer-songwriter, Michael Honan. A local boy from Warrnambool, Victoria, it was Michael’s distinctive vocal tone and prolific song-writing abilities that caught the attention of the Ridin’ Starts judges, with the experience culminating in him releasing single ‘More Than I Can Tell’.  

Speaking on the experience, Michael says: "Winning the Ridin' Starts competition was a deeply rewarding experience. It connected me with influential leaders in the Australian music industry and provided invaluable mentoring sessions. These sessions answered my questions, offered guidance on my music career direction, and shared tips on avoiding common industry pitfalls. The Ridin' Hearts team has been incredibly supportive throughout. As a key prize, I had the privilege of performing in the Lone Spur tent at the Ridin' Hearts festival, playing for some of the best country music fans. The Ridin' Starts win also lead to me performing in the Back Forty lineup at CMC Rocks 2025, which allowed me to showcase my music to the surrounding festival-goers and immerse myself in the incredible headlining acts. All in all, it's been an extremely inspiring experience, that has me imagining myself on those stages one day!" 

To enter, artists will need to upload a video of themselves performing an original song to Facebook or Instagram, tag @ridinheartsfest, then visit the Competition Page at ridinhearts.com/ridinstarts and complete all details in the entry form.  

Entries are now open and close Friday 8 August at 5:00pm AEST. Five finalists will be chosen and announced via the Ridin’ Hearts and Frontier Touring social media pages before the winner is announced following a selection process held by an expert panel of judges. 

Ridin Starts Prize Package:

• 20 minute set on the Lone Spur Stage at Ridin’ Hearts 2025 
  This is your moment to shine in front of an audience of country music lovers, industry professionals, and potential new fans. 
• Contribution to Flights, Transfers and Accommodation all thanks to APRA
  Be treated like the star you are with return domestic flights from your nearest capital city, return transfers, plus two nights accommodation.
• One-on-one meetings with Industry Leaders: 
  • Michael Chugg: Get the rare opportunity to sit down with Michael Chugg, a titan of the Australian music industry. As one of the most successful concert promoters and managers in Australia, Chugg has worked with some of the biggest names in music, shaping iconic careers and events. Learn from his vast experience on how to build and sustain a successful career in the ever-evolving music world. Gain insider knowledge on touring, live performances, and the critical steps to standing out in a competitive industry.
  • James Johnston: Meet with a chart-topping country artist and 2x Golden Guitar winner, James Johnston. Learn from his journey through the music scene and discuss everything from songwriting and recording, to live performances and fan engagement.
  • Tom Jordan: Connect with singer/songwriter and producer Tom Jordan. Formerly one-half of acclaimed pop/country duo Seaforth and having worked with renowned artists such as Calum Scott, Dallas Smith & Mackenzie Porter, dive into the art of crafting hit songs with Tom and learn how to make your mark as an artist in a competitive industry. Gain insights into the songwriting process, production techniques, and how to create music that resonates with both fans and industry professionals.
  • Natalie Waller: Meet with a leading authority in the Australian music industry, including her roles as Head of ABC Music, Chair of the Australian Recording Industry Association board (ARIA), and director on the board of the Country Music Association (CMA). Chairing the CMA Australian Task Force, Natalie offers expert insights into artist development and the dynamic music landscape. Learn how to leverage media and events to elevate your career both locally and internationally from one of the most influential figures in Australian country music.
  • Sony Music Australia: A one-hour mentor session with the team at Sony Music Australia to gain insider insights into the record label world.
  • Frontier Touring experienced entertainment lawyer: Sit down with an experienced entertainment lawyer to understand the complexities of the music industry. They will guide you on navigating contracts, protecting your intellectual property, and understanding the legal aspects of your music career. This is your chance to learn how to safeguard your creative work and make informed decisions that will shape your future in the industry.
  • Ridin’ Hearts Publicity and Marketing Team: Meet the experts behind the festival's branding and marketing success. Learn how to build your brand, grow your audience and effectively market your music in today's landscape. 
• $500 merchandise voucher with Love Police 
  Work with Love Police ATM, known for their high-quality and artist-driven merchandise designs, to create a custom piece of merch that represents you and your music. 
• $200 Ringers Western voucher 
  Get suited and booted and treat yourself to some of the best Country & Western apparel all thanks to Ringers Western.
• Content package from the festival 
  Capture your festival experience with a professional content package, including high-quality video footage and photos of your performance. 
• Professional press shots 
  These photos will be taken by a photographer at the festival, giving you polished images that can be used for media, album covers, and more.
• Tour Pass 
  2 x tickets to 2 Country Music Concerts promoted by Frontier Touring (subject to availability) in your capital city.

 
Head to ridinhearts.com/ridinstarts for more information about how to enter, and to be in with the chance to kickstart your country music career.