From Bull Rides to Ballads: Lane Smith Unleashes Sophomore Album "Austin"

In a genre defined by grit, heart, and authenticity, Lane Smith is proving he's got all three in spades—and then some. The former rodeo bullfighter turned breakout singer-songwriter has officially released his sophomore album, Austin, a bold, eleven-track collection that solidifies his place as one of country music’s most exciting rising stars.

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Raised in Spring Branch, Texas, just north of San Antonio, Smith's early days in the rodeo ring taught him more than just how to dodge a charging bull—they taught him how to hold on. That same tenacity has shaped his music career, with Smith trading in his cowboy hat and flak jacket for guitars and grit, and it’s paying off.

With Austin, Smith steps confidently into a new chapter. The album is a rich blend of country storytelling, rock energy, and alt-pop undertones—an artful collision of influences that feels as homegrown as it does genre-bending.

“This album represents the artistry I hope to bring to the world,” Smith shares. “By melding together so many of my influences—including country, rock, pop, and alternative—I truly feel we have established a unique space within the contemporary country marketplace.”

Smith’s signature rawness and emotional transparency shine across the project, anchored by standouts like the searing country-rock track “Bleed,” co-written with Wesley Pace and Frankie Courtney, and the heartfelt ballad “Ran Out of Road,” a likely contender for a future radio hit. The acoustic version of the title track, “Austin,” strips things down in the best way—offering listeners a front-porch-style listen into Smith’s soul.

And for fans who’ve followed his journey from the start, Austin doesn’t forget the fan-favorites. Tracks like “I Bought a Ring,” “Stone Cold Sober,” and the aforementioned “Bleed” have already racked up impressive streaming numbers, giving Smith momentum that’s impossible to ignore.

But Smith isn’t just about the studio. He’s been taking his show on the road, making his mark in venues that carry a little extra country music magic. From sharing the stage with heavy-hitters like Kyle Park, Matt Stell, Colt Ford, and Chase Matthew, to checking off bucket-list venues like the iconic Gruene Hall, Smith is living proof that a life built on hard work, dirt roads, and a dream can lead somewhere big.

Lane Smith’s Austin is more than just an album—it’s a testament to evolution, resilience, and the power of a good story told through great music. Whether you’re a longtime listener or new to his catalog, this record is well worth a spin.