Shore Fire Media


Rising Country Star Austin Michael Gives Cowboy’s Perspective On Heartbreak In New Song, “Cowboys Don’t Act Like That”

The fifth preview track for his upcoming album Lonestar - out March 6th, 2026 Presave/Preorder album here

Today (1.9), rodeo-turned rising country star Austin Michael releases his new track “Cowboys Don’t Act Like That.” The song takes a fresh look at the pressure to stay tough after a breakup, pulling from his own upbringing around hunting, roping, and fishing. Written by Austin, Philip Morgan (Chase Matthew, Whitney Wren), and Chris August (Keith Urban, Abbey Cone), “Cowboys Don’t Act Like That” is Austin straight-shooting on heartbreak, self-respect, and learning when to let go — all from the perspective of an authentic Texas cowboy. 

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

“Cowboys Don’t Act Like That” is the fifth preview track in advance of Austin’s upcoming album Lonestar, out March 6th, 2026. The 13-track collection, all written or co-written by Austin, explores what it means to be a Lonestar, both a reflection of his isolated childhood in the small town of Van Alstyne, Texas and an outlook on the unique traits that separate him from the crowd. Drawing inspiration from legends like Willie Nelson to modern country standouts like Cody Johnson, Lonestar will showcase Austin’s colorful storytelling, distinct soulful voice, and sincere lyricism.

Previously released singles from Lonestar include “Why Not Whiskey,” a honky-tonk tale of the scars of a shattered relationship, “Back on a Barstool,” an unveiling of the pain from self-inflicted heartbreak, “Hard Earned Heartache,” an aching confessional about a relationship’s collapse, and “Whiskey on a Wildfire,” an admission of the thrill around new love.

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:

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