Tate Cole channels Heart and Honesty in New Single 'Whiskey River'

Queensland country artist Tate Cole is set to release his much-anticipated second single, 'Whiskey River' on October 16 through indie label RTC Records - a follow-up to his breakout debut 'Purgatory'.

Rooted in traditional and 90s country, 'Whiskey River' is an upbeat yet introspective track that explores the heartache and reflection of life on the road. Written by Tate Cole, Kane Vincent, and Cody Walker, and produced by Jared Adlam, the song blends classic country instrumentation — including fiddle and pedal steel - with Tate’s signature storytelling and emotional depth.

“Whiskey River has become one of my favourite songs,” Tate says. “It mixes some of my favourite parts of different types of country. I’ve been told I write upbeat songs with sad lyrics, and that’s no different with this one.”

The song’s creation was as spontaneous as it was heartfelt. “Two friends needed a place to stay late one night, and the next morning we decided to write together,” he recalls. “I was on my way to a funeral but figured we had time to write before I left. The story told itself — about life on the road and the struggles that come with it.”

Growing up in the Australian rodeo scene and raised on a small family farm in South-East Queensland, Tate’s music is steeped in the sounds and stories of rural life. His deep connection to the land and the people who live on it shapes every lyric and performance.

Since his debut, 'Purgatory', Tate has quickly made a name for himself as a rising voice in the Australian country scene. The single spent eight weeks on country radio charts and featured on prominent playlists.

A seasoned performer, Tate has played honky-tonks, festivals and rodeos across Queensland and New South Wales. He has also supported Nashville’s Cody Pennington on tour, and earned a Top 10 finalist spot in the Ridin’ Hearts Festival’s “Ridin’ Starts” competition.

With major live appearances ahead including Groundwater Country Music Festival (17-19 October) and the Warwick Rodeo (23-26 October) and more new music on the horizon, Tate continues to prove himself as one of the genre’s most authentic new voices to listen out for.

'Whiskey River' is available for pre-save now and will be officially released October 16th
on all streaming platforms.