Australian country music artist Tori Darke joins Tony Mendoza on Heart of the Gulch during CMA Fest 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee, for an exclusive conversation about her journey from Australia to one of country music's biggest stages.

Fresh off appearing on The Voice Australia with Team LeAnn Rimes, Tori discusses performing at CMA Fest for the very first time, introducing her music to American audiences, and continuing to grow an international career while remaining proudly independent.

During the conversation, Tori shares the story behind her latest single, "Prettiest Wreck," and explains how personal experiences continue to inspire her songwriting. She also reflects on touring with Australian country music icon Lee Kernaghan, the differences between Australian and American country music fans, and why authenticity has become one of the most important parts of her career.

Tony and Tori also explore the realities of being an independent artist in today's music industry, balancing creativity with entrepreneurship, creating content for social media, and preparing for a busy touring schedule across Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

If you're a fan of Australian country music, female country artists, The Voice Australia, Nashville, CMA Fest, independent musicians, songwriting, and country music podcasts, this interview offers an inside look at one of Australia's fastest-rising country artists.

Heart of the Gulch is a Nashville-based country music podcast hosted by Tony Mendoza, featuring exclusive interviews with country music's biggest stars, rising artists, songwriters, and industry leaders.