Matt Ward Launches His Own Independent Record Label ‘Heartland Music Australia’

Australia has a new independent record label, Heartland Music Australia (HMA). The niche operation is the brainchild of two-time ARIA #1 Country recording artist, Matt Ward. Over his career, the South Australian local identified a need in the music landscape and is stepping up to take fill the gap.

“I established Heartland Music Australia to create a safe, dedicated and long-term home for Australian Country and Americana songwriters in Australia.” 

Amid recording his third album, Ward launched the label to provide better opportunities for Australian Country and Americana artists, on a global scale. Ward’s vision is to offer distribution, publishing, neighbouring rights, and synch opportunities to the artists he signs. An offer that is generally only available at the top end of town, via major labels.

“As an active artist, I understand the challenges of trying to maintain artistic control whilst also striving to ensure your music is heard on the world stage.”

After months of negotiation, HMA has set up partnerships with a Nashville-based team, to deliver on the promise of real-world activity, on the ground in the USA. The partnership means that HMA now has access to a massive network of agencies, to deliver real-world results for great artists, no matter their status.

The first artists to formally come on board with HMA include lauded singer songwriters Amber Rae Slade (US/Tas), Nathan Seeckts (Vic) and Harvey Russel (NSW). With a focus on authentic and world class songwriting, all of HMA’s artists will be releasing new music throughout 2023 and 2024. 

HMA expects to sign more artists to its roster over the coming year.

To signify the launch of HMA, Ward, Rae-Slade and Seeckts will be playing a run of shows across South Australia this weekend (14-16 April) taking in the Barossa Valley, Adelaide and the Adelaide Hills.

“Heartland Music Australia is excited to be on the cusp of releasing some outstanding new Australia Country and Americana music,” Ward adds. “In the longer term, HMA will provide opportunities for both established and emerging talent to navigate the increasingly complex world of digital music releases.”

More information on Heartland Music Australia can be found here.
Keep up to date with Matt Ward, follow him on Facebook here.