Australian-born country artist Shea Fisher is back and making waves with her latest single, “Ow in Cowboy,” a fiery, fun collaboration with longtime friend and country hitmaker Walker Hayes. Released on August 4, the track marks a bold return for Fisher, blending her rodeo roots with modern country flair. In this exclusive Q&A, Shea opens up about the inspiration behind the song, reconnecting with her musical passion, and how life, love, and a little Texas grit continue to shape her journey.

What was the inspiration behind “Ow in Cowboy,” and how did the collaboration with Walker Hayes come about?

Walker and I have been friends for years. Back when I first moved to Nashville, we started writing together. At the time, he wasn’t signed yet, but it was obvious he was incredibly talented. Writing with Walker usually starts with a good hang – we sit and chat about ideas. I shared with him all the little things that make cowboys so intriguing to us country girls, especially since I’m married to a rodeo cowboy. That sparked the concept, and from there, the song practically wrote itself. We had it finished in about 45 minutes.

What was it like writing with Walker Hayes? Did he bring anything unexpected to the process?

I absolutely love writing with Walker. He’s one of the most down-to-earth, genuine people you'll ever meet. He’s a devoted family man, but also such a fun guy. Writing with him is full of laughs and creativity. Once we land on a song idea, we usually jump into Pro Tools, work out a melody, and build the demo on the spot. He always brings such a fresh, unique perspective to the table.

Your comeback track, “Take Me Back to Texas,” feels like a heartfelt contrast to “Ow in Cowboy.” How do those two songs show different sides of you as an artist?

As a younger artist, my sound was always more upbeat cowgirl – I’ve only released a couple of ballads throughout my career. So starting my comeback with “Take Me Back to Texas” was definitely a risk, but it felt necessary. That song shares a piece of the personal journey I’ve been on over the past ten years. On the flip side, “Ow in Cowboy” brings back that fun, high-energy vibe I love performing on stage. That’s my favorite part of being a singer – performing live and connecting with people through the music.

You’ve had chart-topping hits in Australia and are now based in Texas. How has your sound or perspective changed since making the move to the U.S. country scene?

I got signed in Australia when I was just 16, so I was still discovering who I was – both personally and artistically. Over the past decade, my voice and songwriting have matured. Let’s be real – at 16, you just haven’t lived enough life to draw from. Now I feel like I have a whole novel of stories and ideas to write about.

What brought you back to making music after some time away, and how have motherhood and entrepreneurship shaped that return?

Even when I stepped away, I knew deep down I wasn’t done with music. I’d been in the industry for over a decade and started so young – it was a lot to process. Looking back, the break was the best thing I could have done. It gave me time to start a family, grow our businesses, and most importantly, rediscover my passion for music. Now, I’m coming back stronger and more inspired than ever.

With your background in rodeo, how does that lifestyle influence the way you tell stories through your music?

Rodeo has been in my blood from the beginning – I was born into it, and now I’m married to it! It definitely shows up in my music, with a lot of references to cowgirls and cowboys. But at the same time, I’ve also written songs with a more mainstream pop feel. Whether you’re a rodeo girl or a city girl, we all go through love, heartbreak, and finding our way – so I try to write music that’s relatable to everyone.

You’re balancing music, motherhood, and multiple successful businesses. What helps you stay grounded through it all?

I have a great support system – there’s no way I could do it all alone. That said, I don’t need much sleep, and I genuinely love a challenge! Balancing everything can be chaotic, but for me, it’s fun. I thrive in the hustle.

Are there any other country artists you'd love to collaborate with in the future?

Absolutely. I’d love to collaborate with Riley Green or Ella Langley – I know both of them and think they are super talented. And of course, who wouldn’t want to do a song with Garth Brooks or Shania Twain? They’re the reason I fell in love with country music in the first place.

What’s been your favorite show or gig to perform at so far?

That’s a tough one! Opening the National Finals Rodeo in Las Vegas was unforgettable – especially getting to perform with the Vegas dancers. But singing the national anthem at a Texas Rangers game was also incredibly special. And I’ve played some amazing shows back home in Australia too. Each one has its own magic.

Who would you say are your biggest influences in music?

Shania Twain and Garth Brooks, without a doubt. As a kid, I used to study how they performed – the energy they brought to the stage was electric. Reba McEntire also played a big role in inspiring me. She’s a cowgirl at heart like me, and fun fact: we both got “discovered” singing the national anthem at a rodeo!

Do you have any live shows coming up that fans can look forward to?

Yes! I’ll be touring more in 2026, and I can’t wait to get back on the road with my band. Performing live is truly where I come alive.

Finally, do you have a message you’d like to share with your fans and followers?

Absolutely. I always say – it doesn’t matter how young or old you are, if you have a dream, keep working toward it. There was a time I thought my moment in music might have passed, but now I believe my best years are still ahead.

Thanks Shea–all the best for the future!

Author: Andrew Braithwaite

Andrew is the founder and chief editor of Music Talkers. He's also a keen music enthusiast and plays the guitar.