Nashville has a hum. A sort of slow, simmering buzz that never really fades. It’s in the air during CMA Fest, a heat that climbs out of the pavement and the music pouring from Broadway bars.

This year, woven into that hum—cutting across the banjos, beer, and belt buckles—is an accent not often heard on Music Row: five Australian acts who have taken five very different paths to the same place.

Their names are Lane Pittman, Wade Forster, Bella Mackenzie, Sweet Talk, and Austin Mackay. If you don’t know their names yet, you will soon.

They’ve come from rodeo arenas and coastal cafes, open mic nights and small-town festivals. Some have played support to giants—Luke Combs, Cody Johnson, Chase Rice, Red Clay Strays. One was discovered by a man playing songs off his tailgate in a car park.

But now they’re heading over to Nashville to play CMA Fest; the significance of which cannot be understated. And in the soft spaces between sets and soundchecks, you get the sense that none of them are taking it for granted.

1. Lane Pittman

Lane Pittman was 15 when he stepped onto The Voice Australia stage and sang Even Though I’m Leaving by Luke Combs. It was a dare from his mates; he didn’t expect to make it past the first round. But the judges turned, the crowd cheered, and the video went viral.

Fast-forward to 2025, and Lane’s not just singing Luke’s songs—he’s opening for him. Twice. First in Sydney’s Stadium Australia, then again in New Zealand. He’s also won New Talent of the Year at the Golden Guitar Awards and released a self-titled EP that hit #8 on the ARIA Australian Artist Albums Chart.

There’s also just something about Lane’s music. That gritty honesty, paired with a smooth delivery, has caught the ear of critics and fans alike. The Music described his debut EP as a “powerhouse of soul and grit,” and anyone who’s caught him live knows he owns a crowd with the kind of effortless charm you don’t teach.

2. Wade Forster

Wade Forster’s roots run deep in the red dirt of Winton, Queensland. Before he was a singer, he was a rodeo cowboy. The kind who knows the feel of a bull beneath him and the weight of a guitar in his hands. He’s supported Cody Johnson and won Australia’s biggest country music talent search.

The reviews have picked up on that, too. Countrytown described Wade’s sets as “raw, real, and resonant”; the kind of authenticity that makes you lean in. Heading to CMA Fest is a big leap, but Wade’s ready to bring those stories to Music City — loud and proud.

Really, Wade is not just a cowboy with a guitar either. He’s a proper storyteller. A man who’s lived the life he sings about. And when he took the stage, you could feel the authenticity in every note.

3. Bella Mackenzie

Bella Mackenzie hails from Moranbah, a coal mining town in Queensland. At 19, she’s already making waves in the country music scene. Inspired by a live concert at 12, she started writing her own music shortly after. Her performances have garnered attention for their energy and authenticity, earning her opportunities to support artists like Chase Rice and Redferrin.

Her shows have been described as “a compelling mix of polish and passion” by The AU Review. There’s also just a rawness beneath her youthful energy. A way she pulls stories from the everyday and makes them feel universal, yet specific. Like chatting to your best mate about your complicated breakup.

4. Sweet Talk

Sweet Talk’s high-energy performances and unique sound have earned them a dedicated following. Their appearance at CMA Fest is a testament to their growing influence in the country music scene. Their blend of traditional country with modern influences resonates with audiences, showcasing the depth and versatility of Australian country music.

But Sweet Talk are more than just good vibes. There’s a unique Australian spirit in their songs. It’s cheeky, heartfelt, and pretty brutally honest. Really, they’re a voice that cuts through the Nashville noise with something fresh but grounded. CMA Fest will be their biggest moment yet, and they’re ready to pour every ounce of that Aussie soul into the spotlight.

5. Austin Mackay

Austin Mackay’s ability to blend traditional country elements with modern influences has set him apart in the Australian country music scene. His performances at CMA Fest are expected to resonate with both traditional country fans and newer audiences.

For Austin, CMA Fest is also a huge milestone — a chance to show the world the depth of Australian country music, and a validation for years of hard work. Having previously supported Max McNown, who will also be performing at the festival, this is Mackay’s chance to step into the spotlight.

For these artists, CMA Fest doesn’t represent just any old gig. It’s exposure to industry heavyweights, international fans, and media who are all tuned in, searching for the next big thing. It’s shaking hands with the future, side by side with country music’s current royalty. It’s a massive nod that says: you belong here.

Australia has long had a deep love affair with country music, and now, Nashville is loving us back. These five artists represent the next wave, bringing our unique stories, sounds, and perspectives to the world stage. And this June, when they plug in and play on that Spotlight Stage, it won’t just be a career highlight, it’ll actually be history in the making.

Lane Pittman, Wade Forster, Bella Mackenzie, Sweet Talk, and Austin Mackay are among the Australian artists appearing at this year’s CMA Fest. You can find out more about this year’s festival here.