If you want a clear picture of modern Australian country’s meteoric rise, look no further than Lane Pittman.
The Tamworth native went from The Voice Australia semi-finals to topping the Australian Country Music Album Chart with his self-titled debut EP. Just three years later, the 18-year-old opened stadium shows for US country superstar Luke Combs – the very artist he covered in his blind audition on The Voice.
Pittman’s authenticity hasn’t gone unnoticed, with his former mentor, Keith Urban, praising his deep connection to the genre. “I think people are finally starting to realise country is more than trucks, beer, and ‘my girlfriend broke up with me.’ There’s substance to it,” Pittman said.
As country music’s momentum builds in Australia, Pittman isn’t just along for the ride – he’s shaping its next chapter. —Sarah Downs
Read an exclusive interview with Lane Pittman below. Check out the full Future of Music 2025 list here.
Rolling Stone AU/NZ: How was 2024 for you? What were your biggest achievements and favourite moments?
Lane Pittman: 2024 was an amazing year for me! I released my debut EP which ended up going number one on the ARIA Australian Country Album Charts. I also went on my first headline tour and sold out six of the eight shows on that tour. My band and I played a lot of bucket list festivals – CMC Rocks and Gympie Music Muster to name a few.
My most recent single, “Amen for the Weekend”, was released in November, and a quick writing trip to Nashville rounded out the year!
Music is an increasingly crowded and competitive field. What’s one thing that makes you stand out from other artists?
I think just being relatable is a major key to what I’ve been doing. I’m not perfect, I’ve made my fair share of mistakes on stage during performances, made fun of myself a time or two, but I think that’s what’s so great about it. Being able to laugh at yourself with the audience is a great thing. I also think the mullet helps me stand out a touch as well.
What’s coming up for you in 2025 and beyond? Any big shows, notable releases?
2025 has started great, touring stadiums with Luke Combs was absolutely huge and we’re rolling that through with festivals and another run of headline dates this year! I’ll also be releasing a new EP later in the year with some songs that I wrote with some amazing writers in Nashville including Aaron Zuckerman, Aaron Pollack, and Mitch Crego to name a few.
I think getting back to Nashville again this year is a goal as well – I loved the time I spent there in June and December last year so definitely want to go back and make some more magic there!
