Today (1.23), rising country star Austin Michael shares his new single “Back in the Saddle.” Written by Austin and Anthony Gabuzzi, the song is yet another straight-ahead Country song from the former cattle-roper, earnestly celebrating the simple pleasures of his life in Texas with the perfect amount of 90’s-inspired sound. 

Listen to “Back in the Saddle” here

“Back in the Saddle” echoes the collective theme of Austin’s upcoming album Lonestar, out March 6, 2026. Combining Austin’s colorful storytelling with his distinctive, soulful voice, the 13-track album explores what it means to be a Lonestar, both a reflection of his adolescence in remote Van Alystyne, Texas, filled with memories of roping and riding, and an interpretation of his distinct individuality that separates him from other artists.

Today’s single adds to the diverse preview tracks from Lonestar, including “Cowboys Don’t Act Like That,” a refreshing perspective on a cowboy’s heartbreak, “Why Not Whiskey,” a honky-tonk retelling of a broken relationship, “Back on a Barstool,” a vulnerable look at the results of self-inflicted heartbreak, “Hard Earned Heartache,” an admission of the fault played in messy breakup, and “Whiskey on a Wildfire,” a disclosure on the thrills of new love.

Listen to “Cowboys Don’t Act Like That” here

Listen to “Why Not Whiskey” here

Listen to “Back on a Barstool” here

Listen to “Hard Earned Heartache” here

Listen to “Whiskey on a Wildfire” Here 

Austin is represented by L3 Entertainment (Justin Moore) and Shore Fire Media. 

Lonestar Tracklist:

1. Back In The Saddle (Austin Michael, Anthony Gabuzzi)
2. Cowboys Don’t Act Like That (Austin Michael, Philip Morgan, Chris August)
3. Lonestar (Austin Michael, Sergio Sanchez, Jon Kraft)
4. Why Not Whiskey (Austin Michael, Joe Clemmons, Shane Minor)
5. Movin’ On (Austin Michael, Philip Morgan, Mark Chandler, Chris Sligh)
6. Slow Burn (Austin Michael, Cam Newby, Lynn Hutton) 
7. Least Of My Worries (Austin Michael,  Phil Morgan, Chris Sligh)
8. Barrel Racin’ (Austin Michael, Philip Morgan, Kyle Schlienger)
9. Whiskey On A Wildfire (Austin Michael, Sergio Sanchez, John Kraft)
10. Texas Hold ‘Em (Austin Michael, Sergio Sanchez, John Kraft)
11. Hard Earned Heartache (Austin Michael, Sergio Sanchez)
12. Back On A Barstool (Austin Michael, Heath Warren, Sam Martinez)
13. Hearts Break Too Easy (Austin Michael)

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About Austin Michael: 

Growing up on a ranch in Van Alstyne Texas, Austin Michael learned at a very early age to ride, rope, hunt and fish. Rodeo life seemed to be in the stars for the Texas native, however fate intercepted that dream. He was just 15 years old when he wound up on Luke Bryan’s shoulders roping Katy Perry on American Idol. It became one of the most viral videos of American Idol’s 2019 season but the feedback on his vocal ability was the turning point for Austin as he started dedicating his life towards a career as an artist.

He has spent the last 5 years honing his songwriting and guitar playing skills, driving to Nashville, sleeping in his car, knocking on every door for an opportunity. Through his relentless perseverance he has launched his career with new partnerships, and a constant stream of releases amassing over 8 million streams in the past 12 months independently.

FOLLOW AUSTIN MICHAEL:

TikTok l Instagram l YouTube l Facebook

AUSTIN MICHAEL PRESS PAGE:

shorefire.com/roster/austin-michael

PRESS CONTACTS:

Jaclyn D. Childress | Shore Fire Media | jchildress@shorefire.com 

Andrea Evenson | Shore Fire Media | aevenson@shorefire.com

Lucy Benish | Shore Fire Media | lbenish@shorefire.com 

MANAGEMENT CONTACTS:

Cody Villalobos | L3 Entertainment | cody@l3entertainment.biz