Country artist Austin Michael joins Bar Conversations to talk about his new album Lonestar, released March 6, and the milestone of making his Grand Ole Opry debut. Austin reflects on growing up on a ranch in Van Alstyne, where life revolved around rodeo, roping, hunting, and fishing. He shares how those Texas roots helped shape his identity and storytelling, the music he grew up listening to, and the unexpected moment when a video posted online led to a life-changing invitation from American Idol—including the viral moment where he roped Katy Perry off the shoulders of Luke Bryan.

Austin also dives into the making of Lonestar, a deeply personal record about coming of age, chasing dreams, and staying true to his roots. He talks about writing or co-writing all 13 tracks, including songs like Back On A Barstool, Hard Earned Heartache, Whiskey On A Wildfire, and Cowboys Don’t Act Like That, and working with collaborator Sergio Sanchez. Along the way, he shares lessons learned from touring with artists like Justin Moore, Chris Young, and Randy Houser, what the Opry debut means to him, and what fans can expect next.

Jonathan’s Drinking: Green River Wheated Bourbon