Heath Milner’s Nashville-Forged Return: “Leave Your Man” and a New Chapter in Australian Country
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Heath Milner’s return to the Australian country music scene is marked by a potent blend of youthful experience and mature artistry. His new single, “Leave Your Man,” isn’t just a catchy tune; it’s a slice of his own life, penned in the hallowed halls of Nashville and fueled by a whirlwind romance that ultimately ended in a lesson learned.
From “The Voice” to Music City:
Milner’s journey took a significant turn when he appeared on “The Voice Australia.” His talent caught the attention of Boy George, who, impressed by the young singer-songwriter, gifted him an all-expenses-paid trip to Nashville. This opportunity proved to be a transformative experience, immersing the then-18-year-old in the heart of country music’s creative epicenter.
“It was a pretty eye-opening experience,” Milner recalls, highlighting the surreal nature of rubbing shoulders with industry legends. “I walked out for a break, and Jim Lauderdale was just standing in the hallway. As a young fella, being around people like that was unreal.”
The Nashville trip was more than just a sightseeing tour; it was a crash course in songwriting. Milner found himself in a session with Ruston Kelly and Jarrad Kritzstein, crafting “Leave Your Man” in the very room where Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings once made history. This experience, while initially nerve-wracking, proved invaluable.
“Songwriting in Nashville was a very exciting experience, going into the songwriting studio with big hitters like Ruston Kelly who in his own right is a very profound singer songwriter was nerve racking especially as an 18-year-old, but they all made me feel so welcome and it was inspiring to see how easily words could come to them,” Milner explained.
“Leave Your Man”: A Song Born from Experience:
The song itself is rooted in a personal experience. Milner found himself caught in a romantic entanglement with a woman who left her boyfriend for him. This real-life drama provided the inspiration for “Leave Your Man,” a narrative of temptation and the complexities of relationships.
Ironically, after returning from Nashville, Milner ended the relationship, demonstrating a maturity beyond his years. This experience, however, provided a rich source of material for his songwriting.
A Refreshed Sound and a New Beginning:
After taking a hiatus from the industry, Milner is back with a renewed focus and a refined sound. His time as a Toyota Star Maker finalist in 2018 laid a solid foundation for his career, and now he’s ready to showcase his growth as an artist.
“Leave Your Man,” produced by Liam Kennedy-Clark, is a country rock track that draws inspiration from artists like Jacob Bryant, Zach Topp, Garth Brooks, and George Strait. This blend of influences creates a sound that is both contemporary and rooted in traditional country.
The single has already garnered attention, being added to Apple Music’s Aussie Country and New In Country playlists, signaling a positive reception from both fans and industry professionals.
A Year of New Music:
Milner has ambitious plans for the year, with three singles scheduled for release and more in the works. “Leave Your Man” is just the beginning of what promises to be a significant year for the Mackay singer-songwriter.
With his blend of authentic storytelling, Nashville-honed songwriting skills, and a refreshed musical direction, Heath Milner is poised to make a strong impact on the Australian country music scene. His journey, from “The Voice” to the legendary studios of Nashville, has shaped him into a compelling artist with a promising future. And as a final note, he wants to make it clear that while his song tells a story, he does not recommend that anyone actually leave their man to start a new relationship.