Susanna Colley Steel Toes To Stilettos A Gritty and Glamorous Anthem for the Modern Country Woman
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Following the positive reception of her debut single, “Dreams Are Waiting,” Australian singer-songwriter Susanna Colley solidifies her place in the country music landscape with the release of her second single and title track, “Steel Toes To Stilettos.” This song, like three other tracks on her new album, is a collaboration with the legendary Allan Caswell, a fact that immediately lends it a sense of authentic, experienced craftsmanship.
Caswell’s comment that “every line in the song is about Susanna herself” highlights the track’s deeply personal and autobiographical nature. It paints a vivid picture of a woman who is both grounded in her rural roots—a “farmer’s daughter” living in the scenic South East Queensland—and capable of embracing a more sophisticated, “cleaned up” persona on a Friday night. This duality is the heart of the song’s appeal, celebrating the strength found in hard work and the joy in letting loose. It’s a narrative that resonates with the core values of country music, while presenting a modern, relatable female archetype.
The production by the highly-acclaimed Stuart Stuart—known for his work with a stellar list of artists including Sheppard, The Veronicas, and top country stars like Lee Kernaghan and James Johnston—is a masterclass in blending genres. He expertly weaves a soundscape that is both “contemporary country” and infused with “rich rock elements,” creating a track that is polished and powerful. This production choice elevates the song beyond a simple acoustic narrative, giving it the punch and energy needed to stand out on radio.
“Steel Toes To Stilettos” serves as the perfect cornerstone for Susanna’s debut album. It’s a track that not only showcases her powerful vocals and clever songwriting but also establishes her unique identity as an artist. The simultaneous release of the album, both on hard copy and digitally, marks a significant and well-earned milestone. For fans of authentic, story-driven country music with a modern edge, “Steel Toes To Stilettos” is a must-listen, promising to build on the momentum of her promising start.