Known as the Original Outlaw of country music, a badge that the Country music veteran still wears with pride, some even say that Col Finley is a pioneer in the early days of Country Rock and outlaw music with his wild ways on and off stage and the introduction of not so country instruments and a show that was more about entertainment then telling a story which back then raise eyebrows but sparked a wave of loyal fans.
Col Finley has racked up an impressive 33 years of recording, touring and songwriting in an industry that is growing and changing every single day and even with the new age of digital streaming and AI, the outlaw s still making waves but in mist of those year Col feel deep into the dark side of the music industry get absorb by the want for success and heart ache of failure mix drugs and alcohol with a sever mental health issue Col Finley spiral into the abyss
It was only when, by chance, his now wife found him on the floor and rushed him to the hospital that life took a turn for the better
She saved my life, but together we are surviving the reality of life in music, hit hard but not as hard as the reality of my drug and alcohol addiction. 17 years sober, 17 years married, it’s been a long but rewarding journey for us both
Music 2 Media sat with Col Finley
and ask Country Music Veteran a few questions
M2M: Over 3 decades of music! What is one of your greatest moments
COL: I’ve experienced countless amazing moments, but working with my family truly stands as the pinnacle of my musical journey, allowing me to share my life and passion with those I love and care about.
M2M: Who Inspired You In Life
COL: My inspirations come from the incredible people I’ve met and my family. My mum and dad have profoundly impacted my desire to be a positive role model for my kids and instil a strong work ethic. My wife, Nellie, is an incredibly kind and generous soul; I wouldn’t be here without her.
M2M: Who was Mr Wrong
COL: MR Wrong represented the temptations I needed to overcome in my music life, like a little cowboy devil urging me to indulge in vices and stray from my path. Though he was not a good influence, I recognized the importance of letting go of negativity to embrace the positive change I sought. “As the song says, I have to conquer Mr Wrong to welcome Mrs Right.”
M2M: The Finley’s Family Story
COL: This is something that will be shared in the upcoming documentary, but I must express that they are my world, my universe. I truly wouldn’t change a thing. We may not be a perfect family, but what we have works beautifully, and it’s exciting to see where our journey will take us in the future.
M2M: What does the future look like for The Finley
COL: I’m truly inspired by where we are with our music, family, and life. We have exciting plans ahead, but we’re staying grounded. It’s uplifting to hear my boys’ aspirations for their future, and I can’t wait for Nellie and me to travel and share our music even more. It’s simply amazing!
M2M: What was it like to write with ARIA Award winner Mike Carr and Industry Personality Ian “Dicko” Dickson
COL: What an incredible experience! Both Mike and Dicko truly know how to draw the truth out and capture a moment in life through song. It’s definitely a highlight of my music career to share.
20th Feb is a date that will be cemented into the Finley family history books when the release of The Finley’s 4th Single and the next chapter in the life story of this incredible family legacy, “MR Wrong” “Mr Wrong,” a heartfelt track that captures Col Finley’s transformation from the wild outlaw of country music to a devoted husband and father. This new release not only highlights The Finley’s growth but also takes listeners on a ride through the gritty and often tumultuous world of personal redemption
Set against the backdrop of a classic Western narrative, “Mr Wrong” portrays an old cowboy contemplating his past as he faces the consequences of his choices. With vivid imagery and a compelling storyline, the songwriting trio of Mike Carr, Ian Dickson, and Col Finley expertly set the tone for this moving track. The song reflects Col Finley’s journey to conquer the “bad habits” that once defined him, ultimately allowing him to embrace a life filled with love and stability.
Pre-save: https://gyro.to/MrWrong?mc_cid=fb9313ca16&mc_eid=7de57ba38c