Watch: Brad Cox on touring NZ, turning 30 and writing what matters

Australian country favourite Brad Cox is heading back to NZ this November, and he’s not just stopping in Auckland. 

This time, he’s hitting the road with shows in Christchurch, Queenstown, and even Gore, our country music capital.

“I genuinely love this country,” Brad told iHeartCountry NZ. “I want to be coming back twice a year… seeing our friends in those regions.”

Brad’s last visit was two years ago, when he played his first-ever international show at Auckland’s Tuning Fork. “That was a really cool moment for me and the boys,” he said. “It felt like the start of something.”

This time, he’s bringing new music - and a new mindset. His upcoming album, written after turning 30 and getting married, dives into deeper themes. “I started writing songs about things that mattered… things that annoyed me or pissed me off,” he laughed. “It’s probably my most mature record yet.”

One track even features a sample from a viral Aussie video. “It’s a big ol’ ‘stuff you’ song,” Brad joked. “And it’s got a dance break at the end.”

Speaking of dancing, Brad says the whole album was made with movement in mind. “I just want to dance,” he told his producer. “So a lot of the songs have long outros, because that’s what I want to do on stage.”

And while he’s not big on social media (“I don’t even have it on my phone”), Brad’s fans are still showing up in force - especially through his cheeky merch and the Drinking Pioneers fan club.

“I’m not trying to be PG,” he said. “I just put naughty stuff on T-shirts and people buy it.”

Watch the full interview above to hear Brad talk about his love for New Zealand, the evolution of his sound, and why he’s bringing more than just music to his I Really Love NZ tour - he’s bringing mates, meaning, and a whole lot of fun.

Hear Brad Cox and more of your favourite country artists on iHeartCountry NZ by using the player below.