Calling all emerging country music talent across Australia! Ridin' Hearts is on the hunt for some of the country’s most promising undiscovered artists, ready to make their mark on the music industry.

Introducing Ridin’ Starts, an artist-first initiative designed to support local talent by opening doors and connecting them with some of the country’s most influential music experts, providing invaluable insights, advice and knowledge, along with a host of money-can’t-buy experiences.

Ridin’ Starts aims to prepare the future stars of Australian country music with all the knowledge and the tools to succeed in one of the fasting-growing genres in the world.

With an incredible prize package on offer, one lucky emerging star will win a 20-minute set on the Lone Spur Tent at Ridin’ Hearts 2024, one-on-one meetings with industry leaders like Michael Chugg (Chugg Entertainment & Chugg Music), artist Casey Barnes, songwriter Lindsay Rimes, Natalie Waller (ABC Music) and more, design a custom merch piece with Love Police 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!

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

Entries are now open and close Friday 11 October at 5:00pm AEDT. 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 Tent at Ridin’ Hearts 2024
  This is your moment to shine in front of an audience of country music lovers, industry professionals, and potential new fans. 

• 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.
  -Casey Barnes: Meet with a chart-topping country artist and learn from his journey through the music scene. Discuss everything from songwriting and recording to live performances and fan engagement.
  -Lindsay Rimes: Connect with renowned songwriter and producer whose impressive credits include working with artists like Kane Brown ("Lose It"), Thomas Rhett ("Look What God Gave Her"), and Luke Bryan ("Knockin' Boots"). Dive into the art of crafting hit songs 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.
  -Universal Music Australia: A one hour mentor session with Ben Martin (A&R) and Darryl Bailey (PR) from Universal Music.
  -Jacqui Elmas: Sit down with an experienced entertainment lawyer with over 30 years in the business, who has worked with some of the biggest artists in the world. She understands the complexities of the music industry and can 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 Brian 'BT' Taranto, founder of 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. 

• 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 5 Country Music Concerts promoted by Frontier Touring (subject to availability) in your capital city. 

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