Country music laced with a heavy-hitting rock vibe, distorted guitars and unforgettable melodies, Wal Neilsen’s music isn’t afraid to tell it how it is. His signature Jason Aldean-esque vocal rasp lends a toughened edge to the heart-wrenching lyrics and hooky harmonies.

Australia’s country music scene is about to be rocked by Wal’s return, in a way you’ve never seen him before.

Wal’s award-winning song writing skills are on proud display in his latest body of work. This new chapter sees Wal translate his wealth of real-life experiences into an impressive suite of highly relatable country rock tracks that will take listeners on an emotionally-charged journey of highs, lows and everything in between.

Wal is the real deal, with the calluses to prove it. Born on a cattle and sugar cane farm, he was raised on a diet of fresh air, hard work and tough living, that has stood him in good stead when it comes to forging his way in the brutal music industry.

Heart and authenticity are the hallmarks of Wal’s lyrics, which explore some of the major themes of his life including the devastating loss of his father, battles with mental health and subsequent marriage breakdown, and what it’s like doing it tough out in the country.
And yet there are messages of love and hope scattered throughout Wal’s story, most noticeably in ‘Life Support’, which documents the role of music in his mental health recovery, and ‘Trouble Me’ off his upcoming album ‘Detox’, something Wal considers the “best song I’ve ever written”.

“After years of hardship and self-development, today I feel in better shape both physically and mentally than ever,” Wal says.

“I’m not only armed with a huge amount of life experience but I have a catalogue of songs that I’m very proud of and can’t wait to release. I’ve also had 10 years of experience playing all types of gigs from bars in the middle of nowhere to huge festival crowds.

“This has really developed my skill in vocal ability, guitar playing and confidence as an artist. People always have mind blowing compliments at shows. Sometimes I can’t believe what they’re saying.”


“Wal Neilsen is the real deal. He epitomises Aussie country and his heartfelt lyrics reflect his rural upbringing and love of his family. Wal has matured to become a polished and distinguished songwriter and performer”

Scott Lamond (ABC Radio Saturday Night Country)


“He may be new to Country Music, but Wal Neilsen’s music speaks for itself, showing a talented and skilled songwriter who delivers his material with compelling and appealing vocal style.”

Susan Jarvis (Country Capital News Magazine)



True to form, Wal had his first songwriting experience as a 12 year-old boy, when he began harmonising with a tractor he was driving. Gradually lyrics and song ideas started popping into his head, and later on he would figure out the chords and write the lyrics to put it into a song.

After winning the 2014 Voice of Urban Country Music Talent Quest, Wal’s desire to take his music seriously really took shape. His sterling songwriting skills were acknowledged once more when he was placed fourth in the ASA Songwriting competition in 2016.
Having poured his whole soul into his songwriting, Wal hopes that the messages in his tracks will resonate with his audience on a profound level.

“What drives me to make music is connecting with people in a deep way that is a unique experience to each listener,” says Wal.