Country Music Capital News - January 2020 Volume 45 No 1

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JANUARY2020 VOL. 45 NO.1

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JOY McKEAN SALUTING OUR FIRST LADY OF SONG

LUKE O’SHEA O’SHEA’S OPUS

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

THE BUCKLEYS ARE COMING FOR YA

KELLY CORK

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AUSTRALIAN ARTIST SPOTLIGHT ADAM HARVEY

BRAD COX

SEAFORTH

O’SHEA

TAMWORTH COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL 2020

TAMWORTH COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL 2020 GOLDEN GUITAR FINALIST

CMC ROCKS 2020 GOLDEN GUITAR FINALISTS

NEW SINGLE

The Nashville Tapes

Give Me Tonight

Love That

Say Nothin’

AVAILABLE NOW

NEW ALBUMS LUKE COMBS

What You See Is What You Get

#1 Album featuring the singles “1, 2 Many (Featuring Brooks & Dunn)”, “Beer Never Broke My Heart” and “Even Though I’m Leaving”

MIRANDA LAMBERT

OLD DOMINION

Featuring the smash single “It All Comes Out In The Wash”.

CMC ROCKS 2020 TOURING MARCH 2020

The third studio album from the Nashville supergroup featuring the single “One Man Band”

Wildcard

Old Dominion

AVAILABLE NOW years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

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years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

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FROM THE EDITOR

45 FABULOUS YEARS IT’S A REAL PRIVILEGE TO BE PART OF COUNTRY MUSIC CAPITAL NEWS AS IT CELEBRATES ITS 45TH YEAR.

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t’s definitely a great milestone and you, the reader, and I the employee, are fortunate that the magazine continues to be published after all these years.

I’ve been working with Capital News for 15 years, a third of its life and that is really special for me.

I acknowledge the many staff members employed to work on the publication through the years including the late Jazzer Smith and Kevin Knapp, also Bob Kirchner, Jim Hynes,

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Dallas Briggs, Max Ellis, Mike Smith, Susan Jarvis, Jon Wolfe, Barry Harley, Kate Nugent as well as the many contributors around the country.

I’d like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has worked with me on the magazine over the past year including our contributors, photographers, colleagues, and of course our advertisers who continue to believe in us.

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I would especially like to acknowledge Sam Woods our graphic designer for his extraordinary work, often under difficult circumstances.

The Tamworth Country Music Festival turns 48 this month, and that’s huge in festival years!

There are hundreds of events planned across the region and some 700 artists and musicians coming to join the party.

We certainly know that the drought, fires and water situation throughout the country is causing a great deal of concern and we trust that everyone stays as safe as can be.

What is going on around us won’t be far from our thoughts, but what we can do is come together for 10 days, and make more memories.

Those of you who can join us in Tamworth we’ll be here waiting.

Be safe Cheryl Byrnes

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JA N UA RY 2020 FEATURES JOY MCKEAN BUSBY MAROU THE BUCKLEYS LUKE O’SHEA KELLY CORK CMAA ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC WALKER HAYES

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EDITOR Cheryl Brown P: 0407 106 966 E: cheryl@tamworthcountrymusic.com.au ADVERTISING Joanne Maiden P: 0429 784 860 E: joanne@tamworthcountrymusic.com.au SUBSCRIPTIONS Linda Bridges P: 02 6767 5555 CONTRIBUTORS Allan Caswell, Anna Rose, Bec Gracie, Blake O’Connor, CMA, CMAA, David Dawson, Jon Wolfe, Lorraine Pfitzner, Peter Coad, Susan Jarvis Tim Holland and our great mates in publicity and record companies nationally and internationally.

PHOTOGRAPHERS Andrew Pearson, Bev Moser, Billy Zammit, Chris Hollo, CMA Nashville, Greg Sylvia, John Arnold, Robyn McIntosh, Tamworth Regional Council and our many suppliers and those credited throughout.

TRC TEAM Karlee Cole, Eleanor Turnbull, Kyla Hill, Josh Morton, Nicola Allen, Steve Livingstone ART AND DESIGN Sam Woods UPCOMING DEADLINES: February-March – 1 February 2020 April – 1 March 2020 May – 1 April 2020

REGULARS NEWS NASHVILLE NEWS LIVE CM SCENE HEAR & THERE THE SIDEWOMAN WHERE ARE THEY NOW? BUSH BALLADS BEHIND THE MUSIC WRITING GREAT SONGS DOWN MEMORY LANE FESTIVAL FESTIVALS SOUND ADVICE

PUBLISHER Tamworth Regional Council 437 Peel Street, Tamworth NSW 2340 P: 02 6767 5555

COUNTRY CHARTS COMING EVENTS

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Country Music Capital News is compiled and published monthly by Tamworth Regional Council, 437 Peel Street, Tamworth NSW 2340. The views and opinions expressed in Capital News are not necessarily those of the publisher. Copyright 2020 Tamworth Regional Council, ABN 52631074450. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part by any manner or method whatsoever without the written permission is prohibited. All statements made in advertising are the sole responsibility of the advertiser in respect of legal and industrial relations. Printed by Australian Community Media Printing & Distribution, 159 Bells Line of Road, North Richmond. 2754. ISSN 1440-995X years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

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NEWS

MORGAN WINS 2019 COUNTRY ARIA MORGAN EVANS HAS WON THE 2019 ARIA (AUSTRALIAN RECORDING INDUSTRY ASSOCIATION) AWARD FOR BEST COUNTRY ALBUM WITH HIS HIT RELEASE THINGS THAT WE DRINK TO.

HARLOW HEADS TO WARNER UK

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arner Music Group has named current president of WMG’s artist and label services arm WEA, Tony Harlow as chairman and president of its UK operations, and he’s expected to commence in February 2020.

Tony, currently based in New York, succeeds Max Lousada, who continues as chief executive of recorded music for WMG. Tony, born in the UK, began working in Australia in 1997 as MD of EMI Music.

He returned to London in 2002 as chief executive role of Richard Branson’s V2 label.

When V2 was taken over

by Universal Music Group in 2007, he stayed with Universal’s global marketing team before joining its merchandise division Bravado.

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ellow finalists were Lee Kernaghan (Backroad Nation), Felicity Urquhart (Frozen Rabbit), Sara Storer (Raindance) and Charlie Collins (Snowpine).

Things That We Drink To currently sits at number one on the all Australian Country Albums Chart and number five on the ARIA Country Albums Chart after 58 weeks in.

Paul Kelly won Best Adult Contemporary Album with Nature.

The awards were held in Sydney.

APRA AWARDS GO GLOBAL

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PRA AMCOS has announced the nominees and event details for the inaugural Global APRA Music Awards.

Ceremonies will take place in Los Angeles (26 February, at the GRAMMY Museum, Clive Davis Theater, hosted by Maya Jupiter), Nashville (1 March, at Clementine Hall, hosted by O’Shea) and London (6 March, at Ham Yard Hotel Soho, hosted by Georgia Mooney).

Awards will be presented to Australasian songwriters, composers and music publishers achieving artistic excellence and commercial success in international markets.

The awards join the suite of awards presented annually recognising success and achievements within Australia (APRA Music Awards, APRA Screen Music Awards and APRA Art Music Awards), and within New Zealand (Silver Scroll Awards and Song Awards).

At all events, Songwriter of the Year and Distinguished Services Award honourees will be

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named on the night.

APRA AMCOS has unveiled the nominees for Breakthrough Songwriter of the Year which includes Nashville category nominees Seaforth, childhood friends Mitchell Thompson and Thomas Jordan from Sydney’s northern beaches and singer-songwriter Ruby Boots (Rebecca Chilcott who made a big move to Nashville a few years back) and singer-songwriter Sinead Burgess.

Overseas Recognition Award nominees Nashville include Seaforth and Rick Price. There’ll be live performances and hosts have been confirmed for each city with Mark and Jay O’Shea, co-hosting in Nashville, and singer-songwriter Georgia Mooney, (All Our Exes Live in Texas) will lead the festivities in London.

More information can be found at www. apraamcos.com.au years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

DROVER MUSIC PRESENTS

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NASHVILLE NEWS

NEW HALL OF FAMERS

L to R: NaSHOF Board chair Sarah Cates; inductees Larry Gatlin, Dwight Yoakam, Sharon Vaughn, Rivers Rutherford, Kostas and Marcus Hummon and NaSHOF executive director Mark Ford.

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CMA 2020

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ickets are still available for CMA Fest 2020.

You can live the ultimate country music fan experience by purchasing a four-day pass. The pass includes four nights admission to Nissan Stadium nightly shows, early admission to the Chevy Riverfront Stage all four days, four day admission to Xfinity Fan Fair X, meet and greet opportunities inside Xfinity Fan Fair X and free access to daytime and nighttime shuttles. Your attendance at CMA Fest allows CMA to give back – a portion of proceeds supports the CMA Foundation and their mission to shape the next generation through high quality music education.

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lanco Brown, the mastermind behind the international smash single The Git Up, made history in November when he became the first artist to perform at the Grand Ole Opry accompanied by a DJ—which was a key element to showcasing the musical influence 808’s have in his signature “TrailerTrap” sound.

Stepping onstage wearing spurs at the historical Ryman Auditorium, Brown fulfilled a lifelong dream of performing for the world-famous Grand Ole Opry stage.

After receiving a standing ovation, Brown met with Charley Pride and asked him to sign his jacket.

Following the release of his new collaboration Just The Way with Parmalee, Blanco released a remix of the viral hit featuring GRAMMY Award-winning singer-

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he musical contributions of the newest inductees were celebrated through star-studded performances of some of their biggest hits during NaSHOF’s 49th Anniversary Hall of Fame Gala.

Rivers was inducted by Hall of Fame songwriter Tom Shapiro with two of Rivers most enduring hits When I Get Where I’m Going performed by Brett James and Hillary Lindsey and Kix Brooks & Ronnie Dunn, performed Ain’t Nothing ‘Bout You. Sharon Vaughn was inducted by Bill Anderson with The Isaacs joining John Rich to perform Y’all Come Back Saloon and Garth Brooks sang My Heroes Have Always Been Cowboys.

Larry Gatlin was inducted by Vince Gill who was joined

by Gatlin Brothers Steve & Rudy for a performance of I’ve Done Enough Dyin’ Today. The Oak Ridge Boys closed the evening with All The Gold In California.

Pat Alger presented the organisation’s Frances Williams Preston Mentor Award to the late Ralph Murphy in honour of his many years of service and stewardship to the song writing community.

NaSHOF Board chair Sarah Cates; inductees Larry Gatlin, Dwight Yoakam, Sharon Vaughn, Rivers Rutherford, Kostas and Marcus Hummon and NaSHOF executive director Mark Ford PHOTO: CHRIS HOLLO

PHOTO: BEV MOSER

LARRY GATLIN, DWIGHT YOAKAM, MARCUS HUMMON, KOSTAS, RIVERS RUTHERFORD AND SHARON VAUGHN WERE INDUCTED INTO THE PRESTIGIOUS NASHVILLE SONGWRITERS HALL FAME AT AN INDUSTRY EVENT HELD AT THE MUSIC CITY CENTER, LAST OCTOBER.

BLANCO’S OPRY DEBUT L to R: Jon Loba (BBR Music Group), Dan Rogers (Grand Ole Opry) Blanco Brown, Jordan Pettit (Grand Ole Opry)

songwriter Ciara on Friday, December 23. The remix features a brand-new verse, written by Ciara and Jasper Cameron, the producer who originally introduced the two artists in 2004.

One of the biggest country songs of 2019, The Git Up claimed the #1 spot on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs Chart, for 12 weeks (the longest reign since the chart’s creation) and was the top-selling country single in the US for 13 weeks.

Organisers of the Tamworth Country Music Festival will be hosting a #thegitupchallenge at the Opening Concert on Friday, January 17 in Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW Australia. years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

7PM FRIDAY 24 JANUARY 2020 FREE IN TOYOTA PARK

ANDREW FARRISS INXS CO-FOUNDER

JETTY ROAD

2020 GOLDEN GUITAR FINALIST

LUKE DICKENS 2011 TOYOTA STAR MAKER WINNER 2007 AUSTRALIAN IDOL RUNNER-UP

SALTBUSH SIX FEATURING MEMBERS OF KEITH URBAN’S ORIGINAL BAND

CASEY BARNES 2020 GOLDEN GUITAR FINALIST

KARIN PAGE

2016 TOYOTA STAR MAKER WINNER

2020 TOYOTA STAR MAKER

AND MORE SPECIAL GUESTS YOU WON’T BE DISAPPOINTED!

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Slim, Joy & guitarist Barry Thornton at 3TR radio in the early 1950’s

The McKean Sisters performing at Tamworth in the 1990s

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Joy circa early 1960s

SALUTING OUR FIRST LADY OF SONG

BY ANNA ROSE

THIS IS A SIGNIFICANT YEAR FOR SINGLETONBORN SONG MAKER, JOY MCKEAN, WHO CELEBRATES HER 90TH BIRTHDAY ON JANUARY 14.

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o herald Joy’s entry into her tenth decade on this earth, and pay tribute to her incredible songwriting career, a concert has been organised by her family, presented by the Slim Dusty Centre Kempsey.

It will be held at Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Conference Centre on Wednesday, January 22 at 1.30pm.

Some of country music’s biggest names along with pop icons Paul Kelly and Don Walker, will take to the stage to perform their own versions of Joy’s compositions.

These include Troy Cassar-Daley, Beccy Cole, Graeme Connors, Sara Storer, Adam Harvey, Bill Chambers, Dean Perrett, Jeff Brown, Glenn Jones, Dianne Lindsay, Peter Simpson, James Blundell, Catherine Britt, Travis Collins, Kevin Bennett, Felicity Urquhart, Lyn Bowtell, Luke O’Shea, Amber Lawrence, Adam Eckersley, Gina Jeffreys, Colin Buchanan, Brad Butcher, the Davidson Brothers, Tania Kernaghan and Lawrie Minson along with family of Joy and Slim – Anne Kirkpatrick, David Kirkpatrick, James Arneman and Flora Smith (Small Town Romance), Hannah Kirkpatrick, Daniel Kirkpatrick and Kate Arneman.

Her son, David Kirkpatrick is thrilled so many people have come on board to help mark this very special occasion – and this remarkable woman.

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Slim & Joy on stage in 1983 during production of The Slim Dusty Movie

“We are so excited to be able to celebrate this incredible milestone in Tamworth,” David said.

“The Tamworth festival has been an annual highlight in our family for many years, so it seems only fitting that we honour Mum where it all really started.”

How can you hear the words of Lights On The Hill and not imagine Joy pushing through the gears, driving that fully-loaded station wagon and caravan in pouring rain up the Moonbi Ranges, with truck lights coming through the windscreen?

Can anyone not relate to The Biggest Disappointment, exploring their own lives through the words of this song?

Whose heart doesn’t break with grief, feeling for Kelly, when his offsider died?

And is there anyone who doesn’t feel the rhythm of the rails listening to Indian Pacific?

Can you imagine the relationship forged by Slim and Joy with the Moyle River people, traditional custodians of the Peppimenarti region of the Northern Territory, who wove a

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Slim Joy and baby Anne in 1952

basket for Anne to cradle her infant daughter in?

You just have to wonder how many times Walk A Country Mile, the quintessential Australian song, has been played on stages and around campfires over the years.

These priceless gems – and so many more – are now part of the very fabric of Australian music history, thanks to the creative imagery of our first lady of song.

Yet, with all the incredible songs she has written over the years, many made famous by her dearly beloved husband, Joy remains humble about her talents.

“I like to marry up the words and the tune very early into writing a song,” she said.

“I don’t have any secret formulas – they just come to me, so I don’t really feel qualified to share any ‘secrets’ to songwriting.”

Still, she holds the distinction of accepting the very first Golden Guitar for Lights On The Hill, at the 1973 Country Music Awards of Australia – and for quite a few more after that.

Born and raised in the NSW Hunter Valley, Joy lived on the dairy farm belonging to her mother’s family.

Her father was a country schoolteacher and the family moved around to several regional centres during her youth.

Her parents were interested in all kinds of music. Her parents both played steel guitar and loved the songs of Jimmie Rodgers and the Carter Family.

Joy inherited their gift for music, learning to play accordion, piano and guitar.

The first time Joy performed on radio she was just 10 years old.

While Joy was a student at Sydney University, she and her sister Heather sang for the university revue.

After that, the sisters began hosting their own radio

show on 2KY and became well known for their harmony yodelling and singing.

The Melody Trail, starring the McKean Sisters, ran from 1949 until 1956.

Their recording career began on the Rodeo label in 1951, when they cut hits such as Gymkhana Yodel and Yodel Down The Valley.

It was during this time Joy met the love of her life, David Kirkpatrick (Slim Dusty), the man she married in 1951, also becoming his manager for more than 50 years.

In 1964 Slim and Joy began annual round-Australia tours, a massive 30,000mile, 10-month epic journey, which became the subject of a feature film, The Slim Dusty Movie, in 1984.

Ten years ago, at the Capitol Theatre Tamworth, Joy’s 80th birthday was marked by a Happy Birthday Joy concert.

While Slim and Joy were early supporters of the Golden Guitar Awards, the Tamworth Country Music Festival and the Country Music Association of Australia, Joy’s writing talents weren’t limited to songs.

In 1996 she wrote the biography, Slim Dusty: Another Day, Another Town, followed by two others – I’ve Been There and Back Again (2012) and Riding This Road (2014).

Joy was chairman of the Slim Dusty Foundation Ltd and oversaw the completion of the Slim Dusty Centre in Slim’s hometown of Kempsey, which officially opened in October 2015.

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Slim & Joy on Showgrounds in late 1950’s

Joy on stage in showground tent late 1950s

The around Australia touring party in 1966

She’s now handed over the reins of chairman to her son, David.

Troy Cassar-Daley, a huge fan of Joy’s, has described her as “a national treasure”, a feeling shared by many.

“Joy has been an inspiration to our industry and in a workplace mostly dominated by males, she stood her ground and earned the respect she so rightly deserves,” he said.

Over the years Joy has won numerous accolades and awards, including six Golden Guitars, the prestigious Industry Achiever Award (presented by the CMAA), and most recently, a lifetime achievement award at the second annual Australian Women in Music Awards.

Asking a songwriter to choose their favourite composition is almost the same as asking someone to choose their favourite child – and it’s pretty much that way with Joy, although she does have quite a fondness for Marty.

“Slim won Best Male Vocal for that song, but that isn’t why I like it,” she said.

“The chap I wrote it about was a special personality, and I felt that I might have written a sympathetic story on his life, as I saw it, or sometimes guessed it.

“Slim always said The Biggest Disappointment was the best song I wrote, but I guess that doesn’t make it a favourite.

“Years ago, when I wrote The Local Mary Magdalene, I scribbled across the top of it: ‘I don’t care if this is recorded or not, I’m just glad I wrote it’.

“It was written as a tribute to my mother, not that she was anything remotely like the local Mary Magdalene; it was about the strength of character from such a quiet, shy little lady.

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Joy and touring artist Margaret Johnson pushing car out of bog in mid 1960s

Joy being awarded her OAM in 1991

“That story was told to me by the actual lady who was called the local Mary Magdalene.

“I’m proud of Lights On The Hill because it was a real change for both of us. It gave Slim the opportunity to sing all different types of songs, the same as it gave me the opportunity to write all different types of songs.

“It was a big step forward really, or outwards, for both of us, the way it turned out.

“You’re right. It is a bit like choosing a favourite child – and if you attempt that, you can always start one heck of an argument.”

Asked if she’d written any songs she wished she hadn’t – or was less than thrilled with, Joy said there were a few that fell into that category.

“There’ve been a few I’m not all that impressed with,” she said.

“I wrote a couple because I was really leaned on to write them. I really shouldn’t name them because some of them were about people or events.

“I wrote a song about Neville Bonner, who was a lovely man. He tried his best to do the best he could for his people and the people he represented.

“I felt I didn’t get the essence of the man in that song, which is a darn shame because he was such a wonderful man.

“Sometimes, with another person I hardly knew, I felt I could feel the essence of that man, as I did in Marty.

Slim & Joy backstage on the showgrounds in the late 1950s

“I need to be able to think about things for a lot longer and take my time coming out with it.

Then, when I sit down to write it, it’s been evolving for some time in the back of my head and it just flows.”

Joy’s really looking forward to her birthday celebrations in Tamworth – and wondering who will sing what song at the starstudded event.

“I can’t wait to hear the different interpretation of all my different songs,” Joy said.

“I suddenly realised I’ve not only written a lot of songs, but so many of them have been different.

“I’ve done a lot of bush ballads, I’ve written rockabilly songs and old-fashioned songs in the style of When The Harvest Days Are Over, Jessie Dear.”

So, asked what Joy was planning for her next milestone – her 100th birthday, she just laughed.

“I wouldn’t mind being around for my 100th birthday, particularly if I get a beautiful concert like this!”

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BY JON WOLFE

WITH THE RELEASE OF THEIR FOURTH ALBUM, THE GREAT DIVIDE, TOM BUSBY AND JEREMY MAROU HAVE CONSOLIDATED THEIR PLACE AT THE FOREFRONT OF CONTEMPORARY STORYTELLING IN AUSTRALIAN MUSIC.

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eremy told Capital News “We’ve always thought that we are storytellers. Our songs are written about people and places and we try to put a lot of meaning behind them.”

Tom is from Queensland and Jeremy hails from the Torres Strait Islands and they met over a decade ago and the mix of backgrounds has brought a potent chemistry to their friendship, music that is unique and it’s given them an international audience. It’s a relationship that comes with having to work closely with each other for a long time.

“We basically live with each other, we’re with each other more than we are with our wives,” Jeremy said. “With this last album we’ve both grown as musicians and as men.

We’ve gone from being young and single to being married with young families.

“I guess we’re writing adult songs now. We’re not writing about getting pissed on the weekends and finding someone to cuddle up to. We’re writing about family time and children and life as adults.

“With this album you can see that we’re writing about things like mental illness and some of the things that effect men our age (Tom is 38 and Jeremy 36).

With this album and the previous release, Postcards From The Shell House, the duo has found that they are collaborating with other songwriters and that has strengthened their songwriting skills.

“You can only do that with experience,” Jeremy said.

“When we were young we thought we knew it and we didn’t need any help and the older we get the more open we are and we’re learning more but we’ve still got a lot to learn.”

The Great Divide was born out of a powerful chapter in the lives of two men from very different worlds on the same journey and having reached a new level of maturity.

The boys issued this statement in a media release to go with the album on its release: “The Great Divide is not about division or adversaries.

It’s about recognising that we all have a different account

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of events in our own lives and celebrating how those differences combine to create a unique and colourful story. Without our great divide there is no Busby Marou.”

In the past, the duo hadn’t necessarily set aside time for song writing, but Jeremy said they actually did to write for this album.

“When you’re on the road you’re always mucking around with different tunes a bit, but for this album we had to set aside to write,” he said.

“We had a lot of scraps here and there on different demos, but for this album we felt we were very, very prepared compared to the last albums. We went over to the States early last year and sat down with our mates there and made the effort to just write songs. We had

about 50 songs we’d demoed and we had to narrow them down.”

Many fans and reviewers have commented on the connection between the two men when they perform. The Newcastle Herald recently said “Their chemistry is intriguing – Busby can hold an audience for days … and Marou’s more than steady hand and blinding short solo riffs on guitar add spice to the lyrics.”

Jeremy chuckled a little at that and said; “That just about sums us up. Tom’s a lawyer by trade so he doesn’t mind having a yarn on

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TRANSCENDING GENRES stage and I don’t tend to talk too much, but I do like to add my flavour on guitar, that’s my role, and yeah, that’s how we do it!”

Although Busby Marou have earned a large following in country music circles, their music transcends the genre and has a much wider following, so do they have a definition for what they do?

“We do get asked that a lot, ‘What do we call our music?’” Jeremy said. “The beauty of it is that we cover a lot of niches. We feel that we’re one of the only bands in the country that can go and headline a CMC festival and then play the Byron Blues And Roots and then go to Woodford [Folk Festival] at the end of the year.

“I’m the country music fan in the

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relationship – I’ve always loved country music – and early days I wanted to be a country band and Tom said ‘No. no, we need to be a singer-songwriter band.’

So it wasn’t ’til we realised ‘You do what you do, and I’ll do what I do,’ that we came up with this style of music that we’ve had people describe as a ‘Queensland sunshine sound’ or a ‘beachy sound’ but we can still keep the country fans loving our music as well.

“Maybe it’s acoustic country pop! It’s nearly our own genre!”

The first single from The Great Divide - Over Drinking Over You - has gained plenty of airplay since its release in September and seen chart action as well.

The boys said it’s a song about when fun habits stop being fun and the symptom is a broken heart and the medicine is the whiskey to endure it.

In October, Busby Marou started The Great Divide tour, kicking it off in Brisbane and the Gold Coast before heading to WA and fans were treated to songs that reflected a new chapter in the Busby Marou journey, a new maturity, the wisdom of love and the heartbreak and grief.

There is a sense of an education by mistakes and of pride – of who they are where they’ve come from.

It’s nice to be on the road again,” Jeremy said. “And now we’ve got four albums of songs to choose from instead of three!

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THE BUCKLEYS

ARE COMIN’ FOR YA

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years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

BY SUSAN JARVIS

I

t might be a rare event, but that’s what has happened for Byron Bay siblings Sarah, Lachlan, and Molly Buckley, who have had a whirlwind year after being discovered by one of Australia’s leading industry figures, Petrol Records’ boss Chris Murphy.

Murphy spotted the trio – who perform as The Buckleys – early in 2019, and was blown away by their songwriting talent, youthful energy and originality.

“After meeting The Buckleys, I was compelled not only to sign them, but to find a unique creative space for them. They’re the superstars of the future, and I have no hesitation in saying that Sarah Buckley will be one of the greatest songwriters to come out of Australia – ever,” Chris Murphy said.

The Buckleys were the first act he’d signed since the label’s recent merger with the Universal Music Group in 2016, and he was incredibly excited – and is even more so following the group’s initial successes over the past six months.

And those successes are coming thick and fast – from the record label signing to a major deal with Los Angeles-based booking agent Randy Salcedo, and two successful singles.

The Buckleys’ first single, Daydream, reached the number one spot on the Australian country radio charts. It’s an incredibly appealing, catchy track that has really established this young band as a major new talent.

The single brought in some heavy hitters, including producer

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IT’S EVERY TEENAGE SINGER’S DREAM TO SUDDENLY BE DISCOVERED AND SWEPT TO NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL FAME. Chad Carlson, who was the engineer for Taylor Swift’s first four albums, and video producer Brenton Thwaites, who created a captivating, playful video in which he also features.

It’s hard to believe that these three siblings are the ages they are. Sarah is 20, Lachlan is 18 and Molly is just 17.

“We’ve grown up in a musical family – our dad (Mick Buckley) was the drummer in The Radiators – and so we’ve been around the industry all our lives,” Sarah said.

“We’ve listened to a lot of genres, but country is the essence of what we do. For us, the songs are really, really important.

She may be young, but Sarah has already composed more than 100 songs, often in collaboration with some of the industry’s best writers, including Grammy award winners and nominees.

She was named in the top five in the teen section of the 2014 American Songwriting Awards, and her song Strawberry Footprints was recorded on Felicity Urquhart’s latest album, Frozen Rabbit, which has attracted no less than eight nominations at this year’s Golden Guitars.

The Buckleys will also be strutting the red carpet at the Golden Guitars, as Daydream has earnt them a finals berth in the New Talent of the Year category in 2020.

Since then, they’ve performed as much as they could.

They’ve already appeared at numerous festivals, including the Byron Blues and Roots festival – where they took out the buskers award a few years back – Music City Roots in Nashville, Cooly Rocks on, the Mullumbimby Music Festival and Caboolture Country Music Festival, as well as performing on Carols in the Domain, and at venues such as the Bluebird Café and Douglas Corner in Nashville, and of course in Tamworth.

Sarah said all three siblings are blown away by how much has changed in the past year.

“We really started our career in Tamworth. We formed our little band and we busked in Peel Street back in 2011,” she said.

“We had these little chipmunk voices, but we made it into the top 10 of the busking competition and we got to perform on the big stage at Bicentennial Park. It really gave us a taste of what was possible.

“This year in Tamworth will be so different for us. It’s a dream come true to have a Golden Guitars nomination.”

Leading up to Tamworth, The Buckleys have just released their second single I’m Comin’ For Ya (Love), which they hope will follow in the footsteps of Daydream.

“We really like to evolve with each song we release, and we love this one – it’s in a similar vein to Daydream, but we know now that people love our sound, so there’s a new-found confidence there,” Sarah said.

“The song’s about having a positive and optimistic attitude towards life. It’s about discovering that pretty much every negative can be turned into a positive if you choose to look at it that way. And that’s how we like to look at the world!”

Sarah, Lachlan and Molly have just returned from their fourth trip to Nashville, where they’ve been hard at work recording their first album, which at this stage is scheduled for release later in the year.

“We’re keen to put a few singles out there first, to build up our fan base, and to give people an idea of what we’re about,” Sarah said.

The Buckleys’ music is very much a team effort, with all three siblings increasingly contributing to the songwriting, and that special kind of magic that can only come from years of playing together.

Lead vocalist Sarah plays acoustic guitar, while Lachlan is on electric and slide guitar and Molly plays mandolin and also contributes to the vocals.

But The Buckleys are the first to acknowledge that they’ve had a lot of help in their fairytale journey so far.

“Our parents have always been incredibly supportive and really helped us and encouraged us to work to realise our dreams. And our school was always right behind us all the way,” Sarah said.

The trio also embody what is possible when talent and youthful exuberance are backed by industry muscle. Chris Murphy hasn’t just signed these talented youngsters – he’s gone above and beyond to ensure that that they succeed, putting in place songwriting, recording, management and agency support that most artists would only dream of.

The Buckleys also epitomise the international nature of today’s music industry. They feel just as much at home in Nashville in the Northern Rivers of NSW, and they’re kicking as many goals in Music City, USA as they are in Australia’s Country Music Capital of Tamworth.

They’ve recently appeared on The Today Show from Nashville, where Sarah spoke to Richard Wilkins about the band’s success and their forthcoming album.

Currently in production is a documentary, Meet The Buckleys, which will capture their story and give wider exposure to their music and their abundant talent.

The Buckleys have just returned from performing on Great Keppel Island with Busby Marou, and will appear on the free Live and Loud concert in Bicentennial Park in Tamworth on Thursday, January 23, and at The Longyard in The Buckleys and Friends on Friday, January 24.

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’SHEA’S OPUS

BY REBECCA GRACIE

WHEN YOU THINK OF AUSTRALIAN STORYTELLING THROUGH SONG, A FEW NAMES COME TO MIND INCLUDING JOHN WILLIAMSON, SLIM DUSTY, AND IN THE LAST DECADE OR SO, LUKE O’SHEA.

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uke sings up our country on his new album, There In The Ochre, with audiences and his peers already embracing the first single, Sing Me A Story, which is a finalist for three Golden Guitars.

Written with Felicity Urquhart at The DAG Songwriters’ Retreat, Sing Me A Story is a duet with Lyn Bowtell that has snagged finalist positions in APRA AMCOS Song of the Year, Heritage Song of the Year and Vocal Collaboration of the Year.

“Lyn and myself are so very grateful and super appreciative of the support our duet, Sing Me A Stor y, has received from all aspects of the Australian country

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music industry,” he said.

“It’s been a long time between drinks for me, personally, and the fact the leading single from my album has been able to connect with peers and audiences to this extent is very humbling and deeply satisfying.”

To be released at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, There In The Ochre, has been a labour of love for the

multi award-winning artist.

Luke approached this album differently to any of his previous seven offerings by producing it himself across a range of different studios around the country.

“The home and heart of this recording was at the Vault Studios in East Balmain working with the incredibly talented Sean Rudd who mixed and largely engineered the whole album,” he said.

“However, it has taken me 25 years of recording and collaborating to really

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comprehend the art and craft of producing an album and I find our Australian world class musicians are most comfortable and pull the best sound when they are in their own studio.

“Producing an album like this was like hanging 13 separate canvases on a wall and having one artist at a time come in and just paint their one colour on all of them. As a producer you have to express just where you want it, how much and what shade, etcetera but then a couple of hours, weeks, months or even years later, you go get another artist in to add their unique colour to all 13 canvases that must fit in and enhance everything else that’s been laid

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down previously. It’s certainly a challenging cognitive exercise that can do your head in after a while.”

The special people that Luke called upon are musicians including Stuie French, Camille Te Nahu, Bill Risby, Michel Rose, Clare O’Meara, Matt Fell, Luke Herbert, Benjy Pocock and Sean Rudd and features duets with fellow artists Ashleigh Dallas and three with Lyn Bowtell. Luke also called on the songwriting talents of Felicity, Kevin Bennett, Chris Matthews, Brad Butcher, Amber Lawrence, and Matt Thompson for co-writing inspiration.

With three years between this and his previous award-winning release, Caught Up In The Dreaming, the singer-songwriter has plenty to say.

“There is definitely a theme running through the album and I feel the first single Sing Me A Story really encapsulates this,” Luke said.

“Our need to express stories is pretty ancient and no genre does that better musically than country music. Our love of a good story goes way back to us sitting around a fire and feeling the need to scratch it into a wall using a chunk of ochre. Thus the title and the first line of the song Sing Me A Story … I’m there in the ochre.”

Luke said it was ingrained in humans to enjoy receiving these stories and being told them in different and unique ways and that he felt a responsibility to link Indigenous and European histories.

“I grew up in the national park bushland south of Sydney in Dharawal country and I feel a close connection to that country, but I also feel I’ve missed out on so much, a dislocation of sorts, due to us not embracing our early pre-European history and culture,” he said.

“I really want to address that and get people talking.”

There In The Ochre is not just songs about big issues, it also comprises humour with a balance of light and dark.

“It’s a book that’s taken me three years to write, record, produce, master and package up to get it out there into the ether - and over those three years, it’s quite amazing how streaming of singles has become so big that many people aren’t producing albums anymore,” he said.

“Regardless, I love the craft and art of putting an album together – the light and dark, the happy and the sad, the Ying And The Yang.”

Songs that stand out for Luke include the opening track Firewood, as well as Change In The Weather, Right Now Station, Last Line On Your List, Where You Go – I Go, and Open Cut. Written with Kevin Bennett, Happy Australia Day is sure to start conversations.

“I thought it was pretty much done until KB came up with some ideas in the studio that have really made it something very special and one that I hope will really open up conversation about Indigenous and European histories,” Luke said.

“Right Now Station is a fun anthemic song with a serious beat that just belongs on a big country stage to connect with large audiences who want to lose themselves in the joy of music for a while.

“Open Cut is another serious song about the hardships and heartache of fly in, fly out (FIFO) miners, written with Brad Butcher after he’d lost another mate to suicide. It is happening at such a ridiculous rate in these communities and I hope that if we have enough conversations on it, that it will shine a light to these guys to shout out they aren’t alone… and we must talk.”

This album is a journey and one that only an artist of Luke O’Shea’s calibre can take the listener on and he’ll continue this in Tamworth.

“I’m really looking forward to launching There In The Ochre in Tamworth and can’t wait to catch up at the mighty Services Club and play with my band of great mates and for our amazing audiences new and old,” he said.

“Music heals a lot of ills and currently with this horrific drought – there’s a lot of pain out there. Tamworth is all about getting the chance to catch up and get together with the people you love and share the road with, and without wanting to sound too cliché – it is a big beautiful family and one I’m very proud to be a part of.”

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BY SUSAN JARVIS

AT THE AGE OF 60, KELLY CORK COULD WELL BE THE OLDEST RISING STAR IN THE BUSINESS.

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his modest yet incredibly talented Queenslander is the quintessential quiet achiever, but he has been attracting plenty of attention over the past year for his honest, heartfelt songs and authentic sound.

Kelly’s more bemused than anyone else about the sudden change in his life.

“I’ve been in the industry for a long time, just getting on with things,” he said.

“I first went to Tamworth 15 years ago with my band The Rain, and I’ve been back every year since.

“But about five years ago, I decided to go solo, and that was a game changer for me. I started doing singer-songwriter shows, and through that I met people like Felicity Urquhart, Sara Storer and Kevin Bennett.

“They became good buddies, they liked what I was doing and they told other people about it. And gradually the word started to get out and the phone started to ring.

“Some amazing opportunities have come my way, but I just kept on doing the same thing. I just don’t have it in me to hustle, to push myself forward. I’m more interested in letting my songs speak for me.

“I’ve always known a song would see me through, and you evolve through your music.”

Kelly cut his teeth in several bands – The Rain, As the Crow Flies and Barbed Wire.

But Kelly’s heart has always been in his songwriting, and his decision to pursue a solo career enabled his writing talents to blossom.

He released his first solo album, One Of These Days, in 2015, to glowing reviews and considerable industry praise. It was featured on ABC Radio’s Saturday Night Country and was Album of the Week on Brisbane’s 612 ABC station.

Two years later, Dead End Street, received an even more rapturous reception. It featured some of Australia’s finest musicians, including long-time supporter Kevin Bennett, the late Glen Hannah, regular collaborator Jen Mize

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and The Dingoes’ John Bois.

Kevin, Glen and Jen all joined Kelly again for his brand new recording, Where I’m Going, which presents a baker’s dozen songs that showcase Kelly’s songwriting at its very best.

Kelly freely admits that the album’s title track, Where I’m Going, is his story.

“That’s basically what I write, and this one is particularly personal. There are a few home truths about life in there,” he said.

The album’s evocative cover image of a dragster bike captures that dual sense of possibility and venturing into the unknown almost as well as the song itself.

That image of a journey is continued in Down The Road, which is a song about optimism.

“I reckon there’s always a way to escape life’s struggles eventually, even if it’s only in your mind,” Kelly said.

One of Kelly’s favourite tracks on this album is the gentle River Bend, which captures his essential philosophy of life – being straight and true, and sticking to what you believe.

In A Song is another moving song that really captures Kelly’s stellar talent.

“Songs can carry so much emotion. Ever since I’ve known him, my producer Rob McKay can be reduced to tears by a song.

They are such powerful emotional vehicles, and they can take you to so many places – past or present,” he said.

Two of Kelly’s close friends, Glen Hannah and Garry Koehler, have passed away this year. In A

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Song evokes Garry’s memory, while Glen’s presence is very evident on the album, with his gorgeous guitar work.

“It’s been a sad year for me, and for the industry, but music can help us remember, and make the pain a little easier,” Kelly said.

Glen played on the quirky My Middle Name, which has a very cool groove. It also features the fabulous Jen Mize.

Kelly wrote Further Than I Am with Garry Koehler.

“By that time, Garry was well aware of the cancer that ultimately took his life, and this song was part of his coming to terms with his mortality,” Kelly said.

Over the past few years, The Flood’s Kevin Bennett has been a huge supporter of Kelly and his music. The pair often performs together, and Kevin’s been a mentor and friend to Kelly.

“When he first said he wanted to help me, I was really taken aback – but he simply said to me, ‘I can see the

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LATE BLOOMER honesty behind your music,” Kelly said.

On this album, Kevin has given Kelly something very special: his own story.

The heart-wrenching I Long is about Kevin’s father, who left the family when he was young and became homeless. Kevin came across him one night and recognised him, but his efforts to reconnect ultimately failed.

‘Kevin’s given his blessing for me to tell this story, which has had a profound impact on his life. I’m really honoured to be trusted with it, and I hope I’ve done it justice,” he said.

Sailed In is another true story, inspired by a friend who went through the Murwillumbah floods a few years ago. It is one of those songs that cuts straight through to your heart with its lyrics and melody.

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

And Sailing Wind was inspired by the death of Rob McKay’s mother.

“He was telling me that after his mum died, he was having breakfast at a beachside café where they always went together. A big wind came in off the ocean, and Rob told me that he felt it was her telling him everything was alright,” Kelly said.

There is one song on this album that is particularly personal to Kelly. He wrote I Got Nothing as a love song to partner Pia. “I’m very aware that without her, I’d be nothing. She is the most important thing in my life. And she really loves the song,” he said.

Tamworth 2020 is going to be quite a different experience for Kelly Cork.

“It’s the first year I haven’t had to chase

gigs. I haven’t even picked up the phone, and shows have just come flooding in,” Kelly said.

“I’ve got something happening every day of the festival, including a few songwriter shows, which are my favourite, because you get to talk about the songs.”

It shows what a seismic shift the past year has brought with it. Kelly’s pleased, but he points out that nothing will really change inside him.

“I’m not desperate to succeed, and I can’t see myself suddenly behaving like a big star. I love what I do, and I’m just pleased I get to do it a bit more,” he said.

“I’ve got a lot of people to thank for helping me get to this point, and I won’t forget that.”

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LEARNING FROM THE BEST IN A LITTLE MORE THAN A MONTH, 28 STUDENTS FROM AS FAR AWAY AS INDIA WILL GATHER IN THE AUSTRALIAN COUNTRY MUSIC CAPITAL FOR THE TWO-WEEK INTENSIVE SENIOR COURSE OF THE CMAA ACADEMY OF COUNTRY MUSIC.

F

or the first time in The Academy’s history, successful students were announced in three groups after receiving the largest number of applications.

The intensive course begins in Tamworth on January 4 where the 28 students - 24 students in the singer/ songwriter/performer course and four students in the instrumental

course - will learn about all aspects of the music business, musical performance, songwriting, promotion, and recording, among other aspects of making a career in music, all from top industry insiders.

Seven-time Golden Guitar winner Lyn Bowtell heads the intensive two-week course as director, with Roger Corbett as general manager and a stellar team of group leaders in Kevin Bennett, Lachlan Bryan, Catherine Britt and Mickey Pye. Industry guest speakers will deliver the real story from behind the scenes, to help the students avoid the pitfalls of a career in the arts.

Students are from far and wide with two from India, and also from Western Australia, South Australia, Victoria, NSW, Queensland and the Northern Territory.

The Academy Live! performance is on Friday, January 17 at 4pm in Blazes Auditorium at Wests. Tickets are available at West Tamworth League Club www.wtlc.com.au

ALISON CLAPSON

AMANDA HEARTSONG

CHARLY HACKETT

Instrumental Course Bodalla, NSW A lover of all things musical, Alison plays bass and guitar with an appreciation of all kinds of music with her favourites being country and folk. The singer-songwriter has been playing guitar for 15 years and bass for two, using her music as a comfort during personal hardships. Through learning instruments and songwriting, Alison is able to express her emotions.

Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Deepwater, Qld Amanda plays tambourine and bass and began playing music after time in the Air Force. She aims to turn trauma and heartbreak into inspiration with her warm vocals, crooning out ballads and belting out country rock. The singer-songwriter performs as a vocalist in Agnes Water acoustic rock trio, Beautifully Broken 1770, an emerging group with a swampy, bluesy country rock sound.

Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Ariah Park, NSW With a life that is a country song – three chords, heartbreak, heroes, hounds and the truth, Charly plays guitar and tambourine.

Growing up in rural NSW, she has all of the elements of inspiration and the hardworking mindset it takes to grow in the music industry.

Her musical palette is colored with strong country music textures and with an overlay of blues and soul.

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CRAIG LLOYD Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Alexandra, Vic Hailing originally from London, England, Craig now lives in country Victoria after relocating to Australia in 2003. He is heavily influenced by US country greats including George Strait and Garth Brooks as well as contemporary country artists. Craig is comfortable with strong storytelling ballads through to upbeat modern country.

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

DOM ITALIANO Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Lara, Vic As a singer-songwriter and guitarist, Dom has a deep appreciation for the work ethic and approach to storytelling of Australian country music. Working full-time as a cover musician in Melbourne, he has recently recorded his latest alt-country album. Dom has a Bachelor of Music and sees a song as the spanner, wrench and Swiss Army Knife of life.

ELISHA FRANCESCA

HARRIET KELLY

Narre Warren South VIC Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Singing for more than a decade across several genres of music, Elisha is also an accomplished multi-instrumentalist. After spending time in Nashville and Memphis, Elisha has fallen in love with country music which has seen her begin to write and sing her own country songs. The singer-songwriter wants to learn as much as she can from The Academy.

Recipient of the Tamworth Regional Council Scholarship Hillston NSW Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Graduate of The Academy’s junior and senior courses, Harriet plays guitar and is a regular at the Tamworth Country Music Festival. Last year, Harriet was named Aristocrat Entertainer of the Year runner-up and won the Battle of the Young Stars and Senior Champion of Champions. She is passionate about country music and country living.

JACK CARNABY

JAKE DAVEY

JAMIE NEWTON

Instrumental Course Grafton, NSW A graduate of The Academy’s junior course previously, Jack plays bass and guitar and is a regular in the Charlie Fittler Band and with Piper Butcher and The Carnabys. The Grafton musician wants to expand his musical experiences and meet new friends in the industry by attending The Academy senior course and improve his knowledge and skills.

Recipient of the Travis Collins Scholarship Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Taree, NSW Playing since he was six, Jake is not only a musician, but also a producer and videographer who runs his own studio and is now a full-time recording artist. Jake’s live shows are known for their combination of stomping, looping, unforgettable harmonies and heartfelt melodies. He has played many major festivals and supported some of Australia’s top artists.

Recipient of the Burra CMF Scholarship Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Wallaroo, SA Hailing from north of Adelaide, Jamie has been playing guitar and singing for 20 years and is completely self-taught. He enjoys singing in front of a crowd and wants people to relate to the songs he plays and writes. Jamie wants to progress as a performer through what he learns at The Academy to become a successful musician.

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

HEATH LANCASTER Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Gladstone, NSW Heath is a multiinstrumentalist, playing guitar, harmonica, ukulele and piano. The singersongwriter performs easy listening and contemporary music with a coastal vibe.

The intricate fingerpicking patterns are beautiful, complimenting his soft and breathy vocals. Heath is influenced by many contemporary country artists.

KATELANN GREALY Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Miles, QLD A small-town girl with a big voice and story to tell, music has always been the bigger part of Katelann’s life. She plays guitar and piano with her first guitar handed down from her pop who loved country music and her own solo, pop/modern country music & songwriting career started from there. Katelann said it was time to tell her stories through song.

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KEELY JOHNSON

LEYON MILNER

Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Ayr, QLD A graduate of the junior course of The Academy, Keely has recorded and shared the stage with Lee Kernaghan and charted on iTunes. Keely has performed throughout Queensland and beyond, including Disneyland and recorded her debut album last year.

She helps raise money for children’s cancer charities and was Queensland Young Achiever in 2017 and 2018 and nominated for Young Australian of the Year 2017.

North Mackay, QLD Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course An emerging singersongwriter and instrumentalist, Leyon is a graduate of The Academy junior course and won the 2018 Gympie Music Muster Junior Talent Quest and was the overall winner of the Hughenden Country Music Festival in 2019. He’s also attended the 2018 DAG Songwriters Retreat where he wrote with Shane Nicholson.

MARK PEAGAM Rosemeadow, NSW Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course A singer, songwriter and instrumentalist from the Macarthur area, Mark has always loved music and has been performing since he was young. After concentrating on his nonmusic career and family, he reignited his love for country music in 2007. He has competed in several talent quests, winning many awards. Mark’s goal is to head into the studio and record an album of original songs.

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LOGAN HOSWELL

MARIAH JAYNE

Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Hallsville, NSW Logan is a junior graduate of The Academy and plays acoustic guitar. As a singersongwriter born and raised in Tamworth, country music is running through her veins.

You can often find her telling stories about those she admires and the memories she has made in becoming the young artist you see, in every conversation she has.

Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Sunbury, Vic Playing piano, Mariah is a singer-songwriter known for her angelic voice, heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies.

After releasing her debut EP The Beginning in October 2018, she has been compared to the likes of a young Stevie Nicks, Brooke Fraser and Missy Higgins, with her music and alluring stage presence always leaving her audience wanting more.

MATILDA ROSE LAWLER

MICHELLE CASHMAN

PIPER RODRIGUES

Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Bredbo, NSW From her home in the Snowy Mountains, Matilda Rose enjoys fulfilling her passion of storytelling through songwriting. Recent years have seen her release an EP, perform at the Tamworth Country Music Festival and Gympie Music Muster She has co-written with artists including Allan Caswell, Montgomery Church and Lyn Bowtell and plays guitar, banjo, keys, bass and drums.

Colo Vale, NSW Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course A singer-songwriter from the Southern Highlands of NSW, Michelle writes songs with a heartfelt honesty.

Michelle has appeared on The Voice Australia in 2018 and 2012, and has supported artists including Beccy Cole, Adam Harvey, Adam Brand, Jenny Morris, Brian Cadd, Russell Morris and Paul Kelly. Currently working on her first country album, the first single Guys Like You will be released early 2020.

Gwandalan, NSW Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Hailing from the NSW Central Coast, Piper is an aspiring country musician influenced by artists such as Patsy Cline, Dolly Parton, and Kacey Musgraves. She takes audiences on a journey through her meaningful lyrics and acoustic style. She released her debut EP titled Lost or Found? in January last year.

C O U N T RY M U S I C C A P I TA L N E W S J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

Join us for the premier event on the country music calendar!

SATURDAY 25 JANUARY Tamworth Regional Entertainment Conference Centre

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C O U N T RY M U S I C C A P I TA L N E W S J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

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PRAYER CORBY

RENEE JONAS

RICKY CASH

RUBY GILBERT

Recipient of the Northern Territory Scholarship Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Darwin, NT After spending her childhood watching her father play gigs around Darwin, Prayer eventually got up with her dad at the age of six. She has sung in choirs and at numerous festivals in the NT, writing her own songs and helping to win the Battle of the School Bands. She continues to add to her list of accolades as she develops her musical talents.

Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Crows Nest, NSW Singing every genre imaginable, Renee plays guitar and piano and country is where her heart is. After touring Australia with the Ten Sopranos for five years, Renee left to embrace a solo career which garnered her TSA New songwriter of the Year in 2017, CMC rotation with her Christmas song and No. 5 on the iTunes Country Charts with her single, Butterflies.

Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course John Minson/Tamworth Regional Council Scholarship Dehradun, India With a focus on guitar, Ricky is influenced by many genres ranging from country to popular to rock ‘n’ roll and his songwriting encompasses love, life and heartbreak. The son of country singer, Bobby Cash is following his dad’s trail and believes that his material should be a symphony of sound and his lyrics should be an orchard of stories.

Recipient of the Gympie Music Muster Scholarship Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Burpengary, Qld Ruby is a multiinstrumentalist who plays guitar, banjo, and mandolin whose music has been featured in TV shows including Wanted and Diary of an Uber Driver. Ruby weaves a musical alchemy of Australiana-tinged experience meets Americana-style. Raw and heart-breaking, her voice evokes an old-time feel, while her lyrics are both strange and endearing.

SALLY POTTINGER

SARAH MCADAMS

SHARON RUSSEL

TAMEKA KENNEDY

Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Serpentine, WA Graduate of The Academy’s junior course, Sally plays acoustic guitar and the vibrant singer-songwriter was awarded West Australian Country Music Junior Vocalist of the Year 2019. Sally has driven from Perth to Tamworth for The Academy and 2020 festival, singing her way across the Nullarbor. She wants to broaden her skills and knowledge to pursue a career in the country music industry.

Singer/Songwriter/ Performer Course Glenmore Park, NSW An alt-country singersongwriter, Sarah plays guitar, bass, and keys, studying with Christie Lamb and Jonathan English. She is a member of the Macarthur Country Music Club and is recording her first EP with Rod Motbey of Tracking Dog Studios. Sarah dreams of heading to Nashville to songwriter and perform and become a recording artist.

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Instrumental Course Dehradun, India Hailing from India, Sharon plays country music with artists including Bobby Cash and performs in other live shows in India. He is a multiinstrumentalist as well as a singer and plays classical nylon guitar, keys, drums, bass, and traditional Indian instruments. Sharon comes from a musical family and his influences range from Alan Jackson to Brad Paisley and Johnny Cash to Elivis Presley.

Instrumental Course Bathurst, NSW Singer, songwriter and guitarist, Tameka, hails from Bathurst. She was the 2019 Tamworth Country Music Festival Battle Of The New Stars winner and the inaugural Travis Collins Scholarship recipient for the 2019 CMAA Academy Of Country Music. Her sound is a mix of pop and country and she has been touring as a support act for artists such as Dami Im for the last year.

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BY TIM HOLLAND

YOU’LL OFTEN HEAR ARTISTS TALK ABOUT HOW DRAMATICALLY “DIFFERENT” THEIR NEW MUSIC IS FROM WHAT THEY HAVE RECORDED PREVIOUSLY.

A

nd while it may feel like that to them (and perhaps truly is to them), often to the listener it’s more of a subtle change than anything else.

In the case of Walker Hayes, he’s an artist you can most definitely say completely changed his sound and approach to how he does things.

He says the way he makes music now allows for a less structured approach and more experimentation and much more honesty.

When Hayes recorded his 2013 album Reason To Rhyme with Capitol Records, a bunch of songs were given to session musicians who worked their magic.

An album was recorded that, perhaps could be best described as a project to help him discover where he needed to go artistically, more than anything else.

“I made that record when I was 27. I had not honestly lived that big a life. I had two kids. Things were pretty easy for me early on in Nashville,” says Hayes.

“My first three or four years in that town I thought man, what’s the big deal. Why does everyone say this town is so hard?

But after Reason To Rhyme flopped commercially, Hayes learned very quickly that Nashville could be a bit more challenging in the long run.

“I’ve always loved that album, but I do feel it was steered or aimed towards a marketable direction, whereas my new material is completely from the heart.”

Without a label deal and anything else concrete, Hayes was able to work out where he truly wanted to go artistically.

“I kind of got out the business for a while. There were less people surrounding me and I started making music that felt right to me.”

Hayes started creating all his music in his bedroom on his computer with a more simplified production approach.

While some may say that’s not the “real” way to do it, for him it couldn’t be more real.

“When I was writing that stuff before, I didn’t have anyone telling me ‘Hey, we need an up-tempo song that’s three minutes and ten seconds and all that stuff. I didn’t have to consider those things anymore,” he said.

“The label I am with now [Monument Records/Sony Music Nashville], signed me because of the music I

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C O U N T RY M U S I C C A P I TA L N E W S J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

wrote while working at Costco trying to provide for my family,” he continues.

“I try to forget about all rules and limitations and requirements and expectations of country traditions and just try to tell a story like I would tell anyone in a conversation at a bar.”

Because the one thing he says hasn’t changed is his belief in where his songs start from.

And that is his lyrics.

“I’ve always been all lyrics. I’ve always been moved the most by stories. No matter what genre I’m listening to. That’s what I’ve always gravitated to. When I start a song, it is 99% always lyrics first.”

“Those lyrics come from stories of my life and experiences that I feel strongly about.”

And by simplifying his production approach, he now allows his lyrics to take centre stage.

“A lot of the songs don’t even have intros.

They just start with the first line of the song and so you have more of a chance of being grabbed by what I’m saying rather than something musical.”

Hayes has just released the third volume of his 8Tracks series titled, 8Tracks Vol 3: Black Sheep.

It features the new single Don’t Let Her which is a brutally honest celebration of how his wife feels about him and how he feels about her. “… and if she ever misses me, don’t let her,” is the selfless line he sings regarding a scenario where something tragic happens to him and she needs to move on with her life, even if that means with another partner.

Another highlight is Acceptance Speech, which was co-written with Kelsea Ballerini.

“I feel like my gift is what I’m saying and how I’m saying it,” says Hayes.

“There’s a little more confidence in what I’m writing now.”

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

FORGET THE RULES years of bringing you the music 1975â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2020

C O U N T RY M U S I C C A P I TA L N E W S J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

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C O U N T RY M U S I C C A P I TA L N E W S J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0 34 years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

LIVE MUSIC SCENE

LIFT OUT

Please note all show venues & times are correct at time of printing. Capital News recommends you check with the venue prior to attending.

4 HIGHWAYMEN

JANUARY 19 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW 20&23 Longyard Hotel, Tamworth NSW

8 BALL AITKEN

JANUARY 11 Beerwah Hotel Qld 12 Harrigan’s, Jacob’s Well NSW 18-19 Thredbo Blues Festival NSW 21-26 Tamworth CMF NSW 31 Canberra, Harmonie German Club, ACT FEBRUARY 2 Sydney Harbour Cruise NSW 6 Lizottes, Newcastle NSW

AARON D’ARCY

JANUARY 21-25 Tamworth CMF NSW

AARON JURD

JANUARY 16-19 Tamworth CMF NSW

Footwear, Tamworth NSW 19 Tamworth Town Hall NSW 22 South Tamworth Bowlo NSW 22 Balladeer Homestead, Tamworth NSW 23 Tamworth Town Hall NSW 23 Balladeer Homestead, Tamworth NSW 24 Busking On Peel, o/s Easy Living Footwear, Tamworth NSW

ANGUS GILL

JANUARY 21-24 Tamworth CMF NSW

JANUARY 17 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW

JANUARY 20-26 Tamworth CMF

BILLY BRIDGE

JANUARY 10 Esk Club Hotel Qld 17 Fernvale Hotel Qld 31 Esk Club Hotel Qld

ALY COOK (NZ)

JANUARY 17-23 Tamworth CMF NSW

AMBER LAWRENCE

JANUARY 22 TRECC, Tamworth NSW 24 West Tamworth LC NSW FEBRUARY 1 The Loxton Club SA 2 Trinity Sessions, Clarence Park SA 15 Boyup Brooke CMC SA 22 Paterson School of Arts Hall NSW MARCH 1 Oberon RSL NSW

CARTER & CARTER JANUARY 19-24 Tamworth CMF NSW FEBRUARY 14-16 Music Park On Jackson St, Boyup Brook WA

ANDREW SWIFT

ADAM BRAND

BRYEN WILLEMS

JANUARY 1 Mallacoota Foreshore Holiday Park Vic 2 Eden Beachfront Holiday Park NSW 3 Tathra Beachside NSW 4 BIG4 Wallaga Lake Holiday Park NSW 5 BIG4 Moruya Heads East Dolphin Beach NSW 6 Merry Beach Caravan Park, Kioloa NSW 7 Holiday Haven, Lake Conjola NSW 8 Surfside Cudmirrah Beach NSW 9 Holiday Haven, Currarong Beach NSW 10 Alexandra Rodeo Vic 11 Riverglade Caravan Park, Tumut NSW 12 Norah Head Holiday Park NSW 13 Toowoon Bay Holiday Park NSW 14 Beachside Holiday Park, Fingal Bay NSW 15 Reflections Holiday Parks, Seal Rocks NSW 16 Shoal Bay Holiday Park NSW

CATHERINE BRITT BLAKE O’CONNOR

***Guest of The McClymonts # Ticketed Show JANUARY 17 Tamworth Town Hall NSW*** 17&19 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 18 The Pub, Tamworth NSW 22 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW 23 The Albert Hotel, Tamworth NSW#

JANUARY 22 The Longyard Hotel, Tamworth NSW FEBRUARY 7 Club Pittsworth Qld 8 Dag Pub, D’Aguilar Qld 14 Armatree Hotel, Merrigal NSW 15 Tullamore Hotel NSW 16 Royal Hotel, Woodstock NSW 21 Nevertire Hotel NSW 22 O’Connell Hotel NSW 23 Sandy Hollow Tourist Hotel NSW 28 Port of Bourke Hotel NSW 29 The Pally Pub, Pallamallawa NSW

CEC PETERSON JANUARY 19-23 Tamworth CMF NSW FEBRUARY 2 O’Murrays Irish Bar & Grill, Morisset NSW 16 The Clubhouse Hotel, Yass NSW

BRAD COX

GIVE ME TONIGHT TOUR JANUARY 24 The Albert Hotel, Tamworth NSW MARCH 19-22 CMC Rocks Qld, Ipswich Qld

ADAM HARVEY

JANUARY 18 West Tamworth LC NSW 22 TRECC, Tamworth NSW 24 West Tamworth LC NSW

ANDREW FARRISS

JANUARY 21 Moonshiners, Tamworth NSW 23 West Tamworth League Club NSW 23 JB Hi-Fi, Centrepoint, Tamworth NSW 23 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW 24 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW

CHAD MORGAN JANUARY 17-25 Tamworth CMF NSW

ANGELA EASSON

ALEXIS AND SUZIE

JANUARY 17-22 Busking On Peel, o/s Easy Living years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

JANUARY 6-8 Bayview Bar & Bites Cocktail Bar, Mooloolaba Qld 26 Post Office Hotel, Tamworth NSW FEBRUARY 2 The Surf Club, Mooloolaba Qld MARCH 1 The Surf Club, Mooloolaba Qld

BUSBY MAROU

JANUARY 25 Longyard Hotel, Tamworth NSW C O U N T RY M U S I C C A P I TA L N E W S J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

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LIVE MUSIC SCENE DIANNE LINDSAY

JANUARY 12 Dora Creek Club NSW 18 -25 Tamworth CMF NSW FEBRUARY 1 Bungendore Showgrounds NSW

GRAEME CONNORS

JANUARY 22 TRECC, Tamworth NSW 24 Tamworth Town Hall NSW

GRAHAM HOWLE

JANUARY 5 Yea Country Club Vic

GRETTA ZILLER

JANUARY 17-23 Tamworth CMF NSW

21 Imperial Brew House, Tamworth NSW 22 Longyard Hotel, Tamworth NSW 24 Tamworth Shoppingworld NSW 24 Southgate Inn, Tamworth NSW 25 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW 25 Imperial Brew House, Tamworth NSW 26 Manilla RSL Club NSW

JASON DUKE (US) JANUARY 21 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 22-25 Moonshiners, Tamworth NSW

CHLOE STYLER

JANUARY 17 The Albert Hotel, Tamworth NSW 17 The Press, Tamworth NSW 18 The Sider Diner @ City Sider Tamworth NSW 18 Tamworth City BC NSW 19 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 20 The Albert Hotel, Tamworth NSW 21 Tamworth VIC @ the Big Golden Guitar NSW 21 Moonshiners, Tamworth NSW 22 The Pig & Tinder Box, Tamworth NSW 22 Imperial Brew House, Tamworth NSW 23 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW 23 TRECC, Tamworth 24 Tudor Hotel, Tamworth NSW

CHRISTIE LAMB

JANUARY 18 Lithgow Workmen’s Club NSW 23 The Albert Hotel, Tamworth NSW

EL COSGROVE

JANUARY 19 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 24 Welder’s Dog, Tamworth NSW 25 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW

EMMA JENE

JANUARY 23-26 Tamworth CMF NSW

FANNY LUMSDEN

JANUARY 17 Curban Community Hall NSW 24 JB Hifi, Centrepoint, Tamworth NSW 24 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW 25 Longyard Hotel, Tamworth NSW FEBRUARY 14 Lake Cargelligo Hall NSW 15 Boree Creek Hall NSW 21 The Risk Hall NSW 22 Ashgrove BC Qld 29 Warra Memorial Hall Qld

JAYNE DENHAM HANNAH MAY

JANUARY 19 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 22 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW

HAYLEY MARSTEN

JANUARY 17 The Albert Hotel, Tamworth NSW 18 Capitol Theatre Tamworth NSW 19 Tudor Hotel, Tamworth NSW 20 Toyota FanZone Stage, Tamworth NSW 22 The DAG Sheep Station Nundle NSW 24 Tudor Hotel, Tamworth NSW

HILLBILLY GOATS

JANUARY 11 Seagulls, Tweed Heads NSW 12 Mooloolah Valley CC, Sunshine Coast Qld 17 Dubbo RSL NSW 19-25 Tamworth CMF NSW FEBRUARY 28 Gympie RSL Qld

CLANCY PYE

JANUARY 19 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 21 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW 22&24 Nemingha Tavern NSW

COL HARDY

JANUARY 20 Tamworth Community Centre NSW 21 Southside Uniting Church, Tamworth NSW

DESTINY BAND OZ

JANUARY 4 Bayview Country Art Club Homestead, Bittern Vic 24 South Tamworth Bowlo NSW FEBRUARY 13-16 Barooga Sports Club NSW 22 Kernot Hall & Reserve, Morwell Vic 36

THE TOURING FAMILY COUNTRY SHOW JANUARY 1 Morwell Club Vic 2 Mantra Studio Kitchen Bar, Yarraville, Melbourne Vic 3 City Memorial BC, Warrnambool Vic 4 Community Hall, Rendelsham SA 5 Golf Club, Edenhope Vic 7 Uniting Church Hall, Horsham Vic 8 Town Hall, Murrayville Vic 9 Golden Hills Motel, Bendigo Vic 10 Ballarat Vic BC Vic 11 Strathmerton Hall Vic 12 North Albury Sports Club NSW 14 Commercial Club, Wagga Wagga NSW 15 Sports Club, Darlington Point NSW 16 Dubbo RSL Club NSW 18-25 Tamworth CMF NSW

JANUARY 21 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 22 Moonshiners, Tamworth NSW 23 Capitol Theatre, Tamworth NSW 23 Wests’ Diggers, Tamworth NSW 23 Moonshiners, Tamworth NSW 24 Capitol Theatre, Tamworth NSW 24&25 Moonshiners, Tamworth NSW

JANUARY 21 Wests’ Diggers 3:30pm 22 Wests’ Diggers 3:30pm 23 Wests 10:30am 24 Wests’ Diggers 10am 25 Wests 5pm 26 Wests’ Diggers 10am

GINA JEFFREYS

C O U N T RY M U S I C C A P I TA L N E W S J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

JEFF BROWN & KEITH JAMIESON

JERRY SALLEY (US)

FINN MACOOL

JANUARY 22 West Tamworth LC NSW FEBRUARY 7 Albury Commercial Club NSW 8 Wagga Wagga CiVic Theatre NSW 9 Mittagong RSL Club NSW 14 J Theatre Noosa Qld 15 Empire Theatre Toowoomba Qld MAY 16 Bathurst Panthers NSW

JANUARY 12 Dame Pattie Menzies Centre, Alexandra Vic 18 Moonshiners, Tamworth NSW

JOHN ‘K’ KRSULJA JARRED TAYLOR

JANUARY 17 Tamworth Shoppingworld NSW 17&18 Imperial Brew House, Tamworth NSW 19 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW

JANUARY 17&18 The DAG Sheep Station, Nundle NSW 19 Tamworth SC NSW 21 The Pub, Tamworth NSW 22 The Press, TAMWORTH NSW 25 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

LIFT OUT

Please note all show venues & times are correct at time of printing.

Capital News recommends you check with the venue prior to attending.

9 10 11 12 14

Golden Hills Motel, Bendigo Vic Ballarat Vic BC Vic Strathmerton Hall Vic North Albury Sports Club NSW Commercial Club, Wagga Wagga NSW 15 Sports Club, Darlington Point NSW 16 Dubbo RSL Club NSW 18-25 Tamworth CMF NSW

JOHN O’DEA

JANUARY 20 Tamworth Community Centre NSW 20 North Tamworth BC, Tamworth NSW 22 Lindsay Butler Studios (LBS) Music Complex, Tamworth, Tamworth NSW 22 West Tamworth LC NSW 24 Balladeers Homestead, Salvation Army Centre, Tamworth NSW 25 Southside Uniting Church, Tamworth NSW FEBRUARY 15 Trawmanna, Smithton Tas 21 Wynyard BC Tas

JOHN STEPHAN

JANUARY 23 West Tamworth LC NSW

JOHN WILLIAMSON

JANUARY 24 Tamworth Town Hall NSW

21 Capitol Theatre, Tamworth NSW 25 Toyota Cavalcade, Tamworth NSW

MICHAEL WAUGH

JANUARY 20 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 21 Moonshiners, Tamworth NSW 23 The Press, Tamworth NSW

LEE KERNAGHAN

JANUARY 23 TRECC, Tamworth NSW

MR COWBOY (SAM CHOO KOON)

JANUARY 19 West Tamworth LC NSW 21 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 21 Moonshiners, Tamworth NSW 22 West Tamworth LC NSW 23 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW 23&24 West Tamworth LC NSW

KEL-ANNE BRANDT JANUARY 12 Smithfield RSL Club NSW 15 Halekulani BC, Budgewoi NSW 16 Everglades Country Club, Woy Woy NSW 17 Noraville Vietnam Veteran’s Hostel NSW FEBRUARY 4 Merrylands RSL NSW

MURPHY’S PIGS

JANUARY 14 New Farm BC, Caloundra Qld 18 Ballarat Civic Hall Vic 19 Mildura Arts Centre Vic 22&23 Joe Maguires Pub, Tamworth NSW 24 Tamworth Town Hall NSW 24-26 Joe Maguires Pub, Tamworth NSW FEBRUARY 8 Colmslie Hotel, Morningside, Brisbane Qld 20 Empire Theatre, Toowoomba Qld

LEIGHA MOORE

KELLY CORK

JULIET OLIVER

JANUARY 19 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 21 Tamworth Square, Tamworth NSW 21 Southgate Inn, Tamworth NSW 22 Imperial Brew House, Tamworth NSW 22 The Pig & Tinder Box, Tamworth NSW 23 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 24 The Pig & Tinder Box, Tamworth NSW 25 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW 25 Imperial Brew House, Tamworth NSW

KEITH JAMIESON & JEFF BROWN THE TOURING FAMILY COUNTRY SHOW

JANUARY 1 Morwell Club Vic 2 Mantra Studio Kitchen Bar, Yarraville, Melbourne Vic 3 City Memorial BC, Warrnambool Vic 4 Community Hall, Rendelsham SA 5 Golf Club, Edenhope Vic 7 Uniting Church Hall, Horsham Vic 8 Town Hall, Murrayville Vic years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

JANUARY 18 The DAG Sheep Station, Nundle NSW 19 The Press, Tamworth NSW 20 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW 20 Tamworth SC NSW 21 The Tamworth NSW 22 West Tamworth LC NSW 23 Southgate Inn, Tamworth NSW 24 Tamworth SC NSW 25 The Press, Tamworth NSW 26 The Pub, Tamworth NSW

JANUARY 19 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 20 Tamworth Square NSW 20 Imperial Brew House, Tamworth NSW 23 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 24 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW 24 The Pig & Tinder Box, Tamworth NSW 25 Toyota Cavalcade, Tamworth NSW 25 Moonshiners, Tamworth NSW

LINDSAY BUTLER & SHAZA LEIGH WITH THE BUTLER SHOWBAND

JANUARY 19-25 Tamworth CMF NSW

PETER CAMPBELL

JANUARY 4 Twin Towns SC, Tweed Heads NSW 10 City Golf Club, Toowoomba Qld 22&23 Joe Maguire’s Pub, Tamworth NSW 24 Tamworth Town Hall NSW 24-26 Joe Maguire’s Pub, Tamworth NSW FEBRUARY 9 City Golf Club, Toowoomba Qld

PHIL BARTON

JANUARY 19-26 Tamworth CMF NSW

JANUARY 22-25 Moonshiners, Tamworth NSW

LLOYD BACK

RACHAEL FAHIM

JANUARY 17-22 Tamworth CMF NSW

JANUARY 22 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW 22 Moonshiners, Tamworth NSW

REBECCA LEE NYE

KIMBERLEY GOLD

JANUARY 19 Grandchester Hotel Qld

JANUARY 12-26 Tamworth CMF NSW

REG POOLE OAM

KRISTY COX JANUARY 18-24 Tamworth CMF NSW

KYLIE ADAMS-COLLIER JANUARY 18 -25 Tamworth CMF NSW 26 Morgo St Park, Urunga, NSW FEBRUARY 8 Commercial Club, Albury NSW 14 Huonville BC Tas 18 CMC of Southern Tasmania, Glenorchy Tas

PEGGY GILCHRIST

MELISSA BAJRIC

JANUARY 19 Butlers Auditorium, Tamworth NSW 19 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW

JANUARY 17 Tamworth City BC NSW 18 Southside Uniting Church, Tamworth NSW 18 Wests’ Diggers, Tamworth NSW 20 Balladeers Homestead, Tamworth NSW 20&21 Southside Uniting Church, Tamworth NSW 22 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 23 The Pub, Tamworth NSW 23&24 Wests’ Diggers, Tamworth NSW 25 Southside Uniting Church, Tamworth NSW 26 Wests’ Diggers, Tamworth NSW

C O U N T RY M U S I C C A P I TA L N E W S J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

»

37

LIVE MUSIC SCENE RODNEY VINCENT

THE MASON BOYS

JANUARY 11 McCormack Park, Merrijig Vic 17-26 Tamworth CMF NSW

JANUARY 20 Wests’ Diggers, Tamworth NSW 23 Tamworth Community Centre NSW 23 Wests’ Diggers, Tamworth NSW

TRACY COSTER

RORY PHILLIPS JANUARY 18-26 Tamworth CMF NSW FEBRUARY 15 Boree Creek Hall NSW

SALTBUSHSIX JANUARY 24 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 24 West Tamworth LC NSW 25 Tamworth Shoppingworld NSW 25 Toyota Zone, Tamworth NSW

SAM HAWKSLEY JANUARY 18 The Press, Tamworth NSW 19 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 22 Southgate Inn, Tamworth NSW 23 The Press, Tamworth NSW

JANUARY 17-19 Illawarra Folk Festival, Bulli NSW 21-25 Tamworth CMF NSW

TAYLOR PFEIFFER

JANUARY 19 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 20 Tamworth Square NSW 20 Southgate Inn, Tamworth NSW 20 North Tamworth BC NSW 21 The Pig & Tinder Box, Tamworth NSW 21&22 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW 23 Hopscotch Restaurant & Bar, Tamworth NSW 23 Imperial Brew House, Tamworth NSW

TED EGAN

JANUARY 22 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW

THE MCCLYMONTS

W/ guest Blake O’Connor JANUARY 17 Tamworth Town Hall NSW

JANUARY 4 Southside Uniting Church, Tamworth NSW 10&14 Southside Uniting Church, Tamworth NSW 17 Riverside Camp Grounds, Tamworth NSW 18 Tamworth SC NSW 21 Manilla RSL Club NSW 23 Almond Inn Tamworth NSW 24-26 Riverside Camp Grounds, Tamworth NSW

THE RHYMER FROM RYDE JANUARY 17-26 North Tamworth BC NSW

THE WOLFE BROTHERS

JANUARY 24 Longyard Hotel, Tamworth NSW

TOE SUCKING COWGIRLS

JANUARY 17-19 Illawarra Folk Festival, Bulli NSW 21&22 West Tamworth LC NSW 23 Wests’ Diggers, Tamworth NSW 24&25 West Tamworth LC NSW

TROY CASSAR-DALEY JANUARY 6 The Redwood Bar & Grill, Los Angeles, CA US 19 West Tamworth LC NSW 22&23 TRECC, Tamworth NSW FEBRUARY 14 Aquatic Reserve, Echuca Vic 15 Trawmanna, Smithton Tas

THE BUCKLEYS SAMMY WHITE JANUARY 19 Southgate Inn, Tamworth NSW 19 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 20 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW 21 The Pig & Tinder Box, Tamworth NSW 21 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW

*guest of The Wolfe Brothers JANUARY 23 Live & Loud, Tamworth NSW 24 Longyard Hotel, Tamworth NSW 31 Edge Hill Tavern, Cairns* FEBRUARY 1 Dalrymple Hotel, Townsville Qld* 2 Mount Pleasant Tavern, Mackay Qld*

SHANE NICHOLSON JANUARY 22 The Pub, Tamworth NSW

SHAZA LEIGH JANUARY 19-21 Lindsay Butler Studios (LBS) Music Complex, Tamworth NSW 22 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 25 Toyota Cavalcade, Tamworth NSW 25 Tamworth Town Hall NSW

SOPHIE RAINBOW JANUARY 7 The Hotel Kurrajong, Barton ACT 11 Bawley Vale Estate, Bawley Point NSW FEBRUARY 7 The Hotel Kurrajong, Barton ACT 38

THE LONG AND SHORT OF IT JANUARY 15&16 West Tamworth LC NSW 17 West Tamworth Sports & BC NSW 17 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 18 Family Zone, Tamworth NSW 22 Lindsay Butler Studios (LBS) Music Complex, Tamworth NSW 22 West Tamworth Sports & BC NSW 25 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW

C O U N T RY M U S I C C A P I TA L N E W S J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

TOM CURTAIN PRESENTS KATHERINE OUTBACK EXPERIENCE

JANUARY 3 Kumbia Racecourse Qld 4 Toowoomba Showgrounds Qld 5 Goondiwindi Showgrounds Qld 10 Warwick Showgrounds Qld 11 Murwillumbah Showgrounds NSW 17 Kempsey Showgrounds NSW 18 Gloucester Showgrounds NSW 20, 22, 24 Paceway Tamworth NSW 29 Warrumbungles Mountain Motel, Coonabarabran NSW 31 Molong Campdraft Ground NSW FEBRUARY 1 Forbes Showgrounds NSW 2 Hay Showgrounds NSW 5 Braidwood Showgrounds NSW 8 Boolarra Community Hotel Vic 13 Mansfield Showground Vic 14 Trentham Sportsground Reserve Vic 15 Undercover Arena, Moama Vic 16 Camperdown Showgrounds Vic 21 Lucindale Campdraft Grounds SA 22 Horsham Showgrounds Vic 28 Barossa Helicopters, Lyndoch SA 29 Crystal Brook Showgrounds SA MARCH 1 Stockyard Arena Association, Quorn SA

TRACEY BUNN

ZOEY MILLS JANUARY 18 Tamworth City BC NSW 19 Toyota FanZone, Tamworth NSW 19 The Pig & Tinder Box, Tamworth NSW 19 Toyota Park, Tamworth NSW 20 Southgate Inn, Tamworth NSW 21 Oxley Bowling Club, Tamworth NSW 23 West Tamworth LC NSW 24 Square Man Inn, NSW years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

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6, (.<09,: <) 148 Peel Street Tamworth WEDNESDAY JAN 22 - 8:30PM THURSDAY THUR RSD JAN 23 - THE PIG DAY OUT Pig Racing from 5pm Pig Music at 8:30pm

In support of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service We W

FRIDAY JAN 24- 9PM SATURDAY JAN 25 - 9PM SUNDAY JAN 26 - 7PM

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In support of the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service We W 3URXGO\ 6XSSRUWHG E\

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years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

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HEAR+THERE SWIFT AMBASSADOR ROLE COUNTRY STAR ANDREW SWIFT HAS BEEN NAMED THE OFFICIAL AMBASSADOR FOR THE ICONIC DOG ON THE TUCKERBOX AT GUNDAGAI (NSW).

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he Dog was recently restored after being vandalised earlier this year.

“I’m truly honoured and absolutely stoked with the Cootamundra Gundagai Regional Council’s decision to make me ambassador for Gundagai’s beloved dog,” Andrew said.

“I once made a sweeping statement that I’m pretty sure it’s illegal to not stop and get a photo with the Dog on the Tuckerbox.”

‘The Dog’ concept came from the poem Bullocky Bill published anonymously in the mid-1800s under the nom de plume ‘Bowyang Yorke’.

The poem became the inspiration for the 1937 song Where The Dog Sits On The Tuckerbox by Jack O’Hagan who also wrote On The Road To Gundagai in 1922.

Among popular covers of the song was a version by the Howie brothers band 1901 which won them the Vocal Group of the Year Golden Guitar in 1980.

*Artists may change due to availability.

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years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

H+T THE SHEIK NOW OFFICIALLY ICONIC CHAD MORGAN’S I’M THE SHEIK OF SCRUBBY CREEK IS AMONG 10 WORKS ADDED TO THE NATIONAL FILM & SOUND ARCHIVE’S REGISTER OF CULTURALLY AND HISTORICALLY IMPORTANT SOUND RECORDINGS THAT HAVE HELPED SHAPE THE NATION’S CULTURE.

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nown as Sounds of Australia, the register now numbers almost 150 and includes songs, in chronological order, like Wrap Me Up In My Stockwhip & Blanket by Tex Morton, The Adventure Of The Singing Bullet by Smoky Dawson, A Pub With No Beer by Slim Dusty, I Remember You by Frank Ifield, I’ve Been Everywhere by Lucky Starr, Royal Telephone by Jimmy Little, And The Band Played Waltzing Matilda by Eric Bogle, I Was Only 19 by Redgum, From Little Things (Big Things Grow) by Paul Kelly & Kev Carmody and Not Pretty Enough by Kasey Chambers.

The new titles added today include The Man From Snowy River by Leonard Teale (1956), You’re The One That I Want by Olivia Newton-John & John Travolta, written by Australian musician John Farrar (1978), Up There, Cazaly by The Two-Man Band (1979) and You’re The Voice by John Farnham (1986).

Chad released the song through Regal Zonophone Records (a subsidiary of EMI) in 1952. It was a hit and became his signature song.

Chad toured Australia in the 1950s with the Slim Dusty Show and the All Star Western Show before creating his own travelling Chad Morgan Show. He has since released more than 20 albums and, at the age of 86, is still performing and touring around Australia. He was inducted into the Tamworth Hands of Fame in 1979, the Roll of Renown in 1987 and received the Kempsey Living Legend Award in 2002, the Order of Australia Medal in 2004 and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the Golden Guitar Awards in 2010. years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

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HEAR+THERE PERFORMING FOR TROOPS PAUL COSTA HAS RECENTLY RETURNED FROM THE MIDDLE EAST WHERE HE PERFORMED AS PART OF ‘TOUR DE FORCE’.

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he annual tour is organised to show appreciation and support for the troops who spend extended times away from their families and made possible by Forces Entertainment.

There was one show at Amad Army Base in Dubai and another two shows over two nights at Taji Army Base in Iraq. Paul was joined by Barbara Baillie (The Baillies, Baylou), Adelaide rock band The Babes and comedians Anthony “Lehmo” Lehmann, Chris Ryan, Cam Knight and Adam Rozenbachs.

Their contribution to lifting the moral of troops based in the Middle East is impressive and Paul found the tour a rich and rewarding experience.

“Performing for our troops overseas was such an amazing honour.

Our Diggers put it all on the line and we are so grateful for them. For me, it was the trip of a lifetime.”

Barb Baillie, Colonel Catherine (Bunny) Carrigan, Senior Officer for Forces Entertainment and Paul Costa

Paul is no stranger to appreciating the armed forces.

His single Whisper in the Crowd is a salute to heroes of past and present day.

RAISING AWARENESS

S

outh Australian artist Matt Ward uses songwriting to connect and move people, and nowhere is this more evident than his latest single Better Man. The lyrics are a true story of a farmer Matt heard interviewed on the radio in 2012, telling of his hardship during the Millennium drought.

“He tried to make things work on his farm, however as things got harder and harder his wife and kids ended up leaving and moving to Melbourne. He dug his heels and unfortunately eventually lost the farm, his family, everything” he said.

“He was clearly very upset and was saying he had, had suicidal thoughts, so I wrote the song from that story.”

“It’s an appropriate time to release the song and I hope to use the release of the song to raise awareness for mental wellbeing, particularly in regional areas,” he said.

Sales from both the single and album have, to date, raised around $1000 which has been donated to the Black Dog Institute.

Better Man is available on Matt’s ARIA #1 album, Heartland.

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years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

H+T SPOTLIGHT ON HARROW

T FORMER TAMWORTH ARTIST MARK FITZSUMMONS IS SHINING A SPOTLIGHT ON THE SMALL VICTORIAN TOWN OF HARROW WITH HIS NEW SONG INSPIRED

BY THE TOWNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S B & S BALL.

he Tussock Jumpers Ball follows his first single Southern from the EP of the same name which is Markâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first song to debut on the official Top 40 Australian country music charts.

Mark was recognised by the Australian Songwritersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association in 2016 as a Top 10 Australian song writer and ranked in the Top 30 Australian song writers for 2019.

In 2018, Mark went to Nashville to further develop his song writing talents as he travelled through the Southern states.

He returned to Australia and headed straight to the Hillbilly Hut studio to work with Simon Johnson producing the songs,

for Southern that was officially released in November and is now available on all platforms.

The Tussock Jumpers B & S will be held in Johnny Muller Park on the Glenelg River in Harrow on January 18 from 8.30pm to 1am featuring the Iain Archibald Band, No Mistake Band and No Plans band. The dress code is black tie and tickets are available from trybooking.com Monies raised for the community include for the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bush nursing facility.

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T H E S I D E WO M E N : ALI FOSTER

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oster is a member of the Hussy Hicks and has also shone as Beccy Cole’s band drummer, an opportunity which has seen her travel the nation.

You could say the beat flowed through Foster’s vein from an early age, growing up in Western Sydney’s Pitt Town, she was inspired by her father who played the instrument.

“There was always a drum kit at home,” she said.

“I started learning the piano at five years old but I decided drums were more fun.”

She credits piano with helping her learn music notations and helped her leap into playing the drums more seriously when she hit her early high school years.

“When I got on the drum kit I was learning rock songs,” she said.

“I was listening to Freak by Silverchair and was playing along and then I saw the notations and heard the drums on the track and I thought, Oh my god, this is so much fun!

“I don’t know if it was the tone that got me hooked, but it was a real turning point.”

From there, Foster credits the music program at St Pauls’ Grammar School to helping her achieve her dreams.

She was encouraged to join the school’s big band in year 10 and then she decided she wanted to pursue drumming as a career.

“I did my classical percussion and jazz drumming audition and got into The Con (Sydney Conservatorium of Music) and then I decided to do a drum kit course,” she said.

“It was my encouraging music teachers who really pushed me and how much fun I had in bands that got me hooked and then I realised I could study drumming after school.”

From there Foster completed a Bachelor of Music in Jazz at the conservatorium.

She admits gender imbalance in the drumming field has come a long way since then, with just three girls in difference stages of the course when she first started.

From there, you could say Foster was in hot demand, touring and recording with many artists across a wide range of genres.

Her career highlights include touring with UK electro punk artist, ‘Sshh’, featuring Zak Starkey (Ringo Starr’s son and drummer for The Who). But it’s with the Hussy Hicks right now where you’ll find her most at home.

Together they travel and regularly play Australia’s biggest festivals including;

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KEEPING THE BEAT

BY HALEY CRAIG

AMIDST ALL THE FANFARE OF THE AUSTRALIAN MUSIC INDUSTRY, YOU’LL FIND ALI FOSTER KEEPING THE BEAT. Bluesfest Byron Bay, Woodford Folk Festival and Port Fairy Folk Festival.

“It’s like family” she says.

“It feels like paying music with my best friends, it’s an electric feeling when we’re on stage together.”

The band has an association with Beccy Cole, and plays regularly on her tour.

Foster’s relationship with Cole now spans almost a decade and she couldn’t be happier to be a part of her team.

“It’s been so much fun, a dream come true. When I first got the call that she needed a drummer and asked me to fill in for someone, I was so excited,” she said.

“I went straight to rehearsal and started learning all her songs, it’s been so fun, kind of likely family and she definitely feels like a role model to me, she is amazing, so funny and warm, it’s been a really great learning experience.”

And while experienced across a large range of music styles, Foster says it takes a little extra to master the country music rhythm.

“There’s a certain finesse to playing country music

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that gets overlooked a lot, I think people think it’s a one train beat for every song but there’s actually a lot to it,” she said.

“There’s this mixture of all different genres, a bit bluesy and jazzy and jazz and western swing kind of cross over with each other.

“To nail it, is like a secret I’d learned.

“You’ve always got something to learn with the drums and improve on.”

Foster’s next big challenge is live theatre, where she’ll form part of the show band for the musical Six which premieres at the Sydney Opera House in early January. The nine week production introduces the six wives of Henry VIII.

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

W H E R E AR E T H E Y NOW ?

GENNI KANE

STILL WRITING

FROM THE HEART

BY SUSAN JARVIS

WHAT STRUCK ME MOST WHEN I FIRST HEARD THE FLYING EMUS BACK IN THE MID-1980S WAS HOW CONTEMPORARY THEY SOUNDED.

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t was a revelation in an era when Australian country music was so strongly influenced by its American counterparts, or was firmly rooted in the Australian bush.

Here was a band that sang about life in the city, about being young in Australia, but that still embraced our heritage and what made us unique.

The Emus were authentic back then, and 35 years later, nothing has changed for one of the band’s high-profile members, Genni Kane.

“Back then we made albums that reflected who we were – we really wanted that feeling of authenticity,” she said.

“A lot has changed since those days, but I’m still compelled to write songs that come from my heart. I can only express how I feel and where I’m at in life.”

The Flying Emus were a huge success, collecting no less than six Instrumental and Vocal Group Golden Guitars between 1986 and 1991, and taking out the 1988 ARIA Award for Best Country Album.

In the intervening years, Genni has been part of the amazing super-trio Saunders Kane and Del (with Jane Saunders and Shanley Del) and also released an album with her brother John Kane (also a member of the Flying Emus), as The Kanes.

She’s written numerous songs for artists ranging from Slim Dusty to Jimmy Little to Felicity Urquhart and even the Bananas in Pyjamas, and has sung backing vocals on countless recordings.

Genni was also invited to be a guest of the National

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

Library at the 2017 National Folk Festival and recorded interviews and music for the National Sound Archive as well as presentations for the National Folkloric Conference.

For the past two decades, Genni and husband Jon Wilby have made their home in the little village of Millthorpe in Central Western New South Wales. Genni teaches the village’s children, but still finds time to write and record, and to perform both locally and at festivals further afield.

She released her first solo album, the wonderful Selfies, in 2016, and says it opened a floodgate for her, and she just can’t stop writing songs. That has resulted in another exquisite new recording, the aptly titled Songs From The Kitchen Table.

“I loved Selfies, because it really reflected who I was at the time – those were my stories,” she said.

“But this new album feels as if it makes my stories universal – they are very definitely about me

and the way I see the world, but they’re also about the ageing process, about becoming comfortable in your own skin, about suffering loss and pain, and about connection.”

The album’s title track, Songs From The Kitchen Table holds the whole album together.

It evokes a strong sense of welcome, of being drawn into Genni’s world, and the songs she’s about to present. It is also a song that celebrates love, belonging and creativity.

“That table really is the heart of our home.

It’s where everything happens, and it has been part of our lives,” she said.

Millthorpe is celebrated in the beautiful Dust & Bones, which captures Genni’s feelings perfectly.

“The sense of place I get from living in this village is such a part of me. We found it by accident, but it just wrapped its arms around us, and now we belong in this vibrant, artistic, warm community,” she said.

Reflecting on her life as she heads towards her seventh decade, Genni lists her milestones in 20,000 Days, and explores some of the mementoes of a life well lived, and parents who are no longer with her in the poignant As If I Would Forget.

The album has some delightfully quirky moments, including Isa Brown, about a man and his chicken, the wonderful If I Die Before You, which spells out how we all secretly feel about our partners, and the sweet, gentle Ice Cream & Secrets, about a long, happy relationship – with yodelling.

The most powerful track on the album is The Captain Of The Ship, a remarkable song about Genni’s late father-in-law, who escaped Burma during World War II and passed away recently after enduring the ravages of dementia.

Other highlights are the gentle love song Believe In Me and the delightful tale Worries In Your Pocket.

And Genni’s joined by local duo Smith & Jones for the remarkable Folk Singer, which will become an instant ear worm.

Songs From The Kitchen Table was launched in November in Sydney and Millthorpe at two From the Valley to the Village concerts that also saw John Kane and singing/ songwriting partner Andy Gordon launch their album 20 Good Summers.

She’s hoping to get up close and personal in a series of house concerts in 2020, and is keen to hear from anyone who’d like to host one.

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BUSH BALLADS

A MUSICAL HISTORY

BY PETER COAD OAM – WWW.BUSHBALLADEERS.COM.AU

THE SONG WRITING BALLADEER HAS LONG BEEN TELLING STORIES OF THIS COUNTRY BASED ON THEIR TRAVELS. FOR THOSE OF US WHO AREN’T SO FORTUNATE TO TRAVEL, WE FIND OUT A GREAT DEAL ABOUT THE PEOPLE AND TOWNS IN AUSTRALIA’S STATES AND TERRITORIES THIS WAY.

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he Australian Country Music Hall of Fame is a great place to visit as it captures a great deal of history through the tireless work of Eric and Hilary Scott and the volunteers who have been keeping it up-dated through the decades.

The Hall of Fame will have extended opening hours during the Tamworth Country Music Festival from January 17 to the 26 from 9am to 5pm daily. ​ Several new display cabinets are now filled with artefacts and memorabilia. Some of the new displays are from Graham Rodger, Lindsay Waddington, Dean Perrett, Norm Bodkin, Peter Horan, Brian Letton, and Col Hardy. There will also be a selection of personal items of Gordon Parsons and Tex Morton on display. So while you’re in the country music capital, visit the Hall of Fame and stroll down the Walk A Country Mile exhibit which tells the history of our music. If you have visited previously, you will find lots of new displays well worth a return visit and it is through your support the Hall of Fame can keep preserving and presenting new artist displays.

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BALLADEERS IN TAMWORTH As mentioned last edition the Australian Bush Balladeers will again present ‘The Balladeers Homestead’ at (Salvation Army Complex Hall), 328 Goonoo Goonoo Road in Tamworth. A huge array of traditional and bush ballad concerts and showcases will run each day from Friday, January 17 through to Friday, January 24 including the Bronze Bust Fundraiser Concert and the Tamworth Country Music Hall Of Fame Fundraiser. Keith Jamieson will also be presenting a range of bush ballad concerts at the Southside Uniting Church with a huge line-up of traditional music artists.

Check the Official Guide for many more traditional artist shows that are happening.

​ BEDGERABONG CAMPOUT SUCCESS

The Bedgerabong Country Music Campout was held in October and succeeded in its 11th year. The committee of Forbes Country Music Club Incorporated, including president Wendy Dixon and secretary Steven Dixon, could not be any more pleased or proud of the efforts of all involved.

Entertainment was provided by walk-up artists during the week and then Saturday and Sunday featured performances by Kel-Anne Brandt, Tanya Johnston, Justin Landers, Joe and Pam Reeves, Kylie Adams-Collier, Alan Neal, Jason Carruthers, Charmaine Pout, GraceyDenham Jones and Toni Sharp. Plans are in place for this year’s event with organisers finalising the artists program.

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BOOK REVIEW M Y LIFE - TED EGAN,​ OUTBACK SONGMAN This is a wonderful book about the life of Ted Egan who began life in the suburbs of Melbourne and who now lives happily near Alice Springs in the Northern Territory. Ted tells the stories of his life as he remembers them including how he got into music with songs such as The Drover’s Boy, They Are Bloody Good Drinkers In The Territory, Sayonara Nakamura and so many others. There is lot more to Ted Egan and what he has done in his life as a song writer and recording artist. This is a truly great read.

LACHIE & GEORGIA​ IN HARMONY These two young siblings have been back into the studio recording their second album. As they are growing older their vocals and particularly their harmonies have really developed. They have recorded 10 songs including some bush ballad tunes. Lachie has played some of the lead guitar as well as harmonies with his sister. They both sing lead vocals on songs such as Raining on the Rock, This Flower, and Plains Of Peppimenarti. I enjoyed this CD and am looking forward to hearing more of them in the future.

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

B E H I ND T H E M USI C S U S A N JA RV I S

TRUSTED STORIES

BY JON WOLFE

REGULAR CAP NEWS READERS ARE NO DOUBT FAMILIAR WITH THE BYLINE “SUSAN JARVIS” – ESPECIALLY THOSE WHO HAVE BEEN REGULAR READERS – AND MOST PEOPLE IN THE COUNTRY MUSIC INDUSTRY ARE AWARE OF THE INCREDIBLE INSIGHTS SHE BRINGS TO HER STORIES AND THE HUMBLE WOMAN BEHIND THEM.

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ue was a journalist for The Northern Daily Leader in Tamworth when she was asked by the original ‘Cap Newsman’, Jazzer Smith, to take on his regular column for Hoofs & Horns magazine in the mid-1980s after he became ill

with cancer.

“I started writing that without a name on it, because I didn’t think it was appropriate,” Sue said, “but eventually started using my own name. That was 1986. Ann Newling was writing for Cap News while on maternity leave, and when I left The Leader to start freelancing she asked me if I wanted to write for Cap News.

Since taking on that role, Sue hasn’t missed having a story in a single monthly issue as far as she can recall.

“I hardly knew anything about country music at that stage – but I learnt fast!” she said.

“I initially discovered that I really liked the people in the industry, but it was a pretty fast transition to loving the music too. And then it became a passion.”

Sue worked alongside the late Kevin Knapp at Cap News for a few years, writing, editing and proofreading, and expanded her involvement in the Australian country music scene, writing a regular column for the Sydney Morning Herald for almost a decade.

“The early 1990s was an insane time for country music and the work came thick and fast,” Sue said.

“I did lots of radio shows – on Kick Country in Sydney, 4BC in Brisbane and later John Nutting’s Saturday Night Country on the ABC. I also wrote and presented on the Stampede TV show. I did a long interview with Garth Brooks for Stampede when he was here in 1994, which was made into a TV special.”

“The American country at that stage was brilliant – Reba McIntyre, Garth, Alan Jackson, the Dixie Chicks, Brooks & Dunn.

“And then there was James Blundell, who was huge by

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

then, and Lee Kernaghan – I think I wrote the first story about Lee’s Outback Club album. Beccy Cole, Kasey Chambers, Gina Jeffreys – largely due to ABC Music, there was so much talent emerging.”

Sue also wrote for other country music magazines like Country Update and Country Music Magazine and wrote press releases for ABC Music.

Sue was a board member of the Country Music Association of Australia for many years, joining the board during its first year of operation, and has judged the ARIAs, Golden Guitars and the Independent Country Music Awards, amongst other awards.

“I was really privileged to have been part of the industry in the early-’90s,” she said. “So much happened, it was amazing. It felt like there was an album launch on every week. It was definitely the high point of Australian country music.”

Sue said she always does her research, and makes a point of listening to every track when interviewing artists, but often finds that just chatting leads artists to provide insights in to their lives and music.

“I just talk to them – after so long, I’m privileged to call many

of them my friends – and usually they’ll open up and give you some great angles,” she said.

With all this experience and knowledge, one wonders why Sue hasn’t written a book on country music.

“Maybe one day – if there’s ever time.

There is certainly a need for a new book on the industry,” she said.

And favourite interviewees?

“Those American artists that stand out in hindsight include Garth Brooks, Billy Rae Cyrus, Taylor Swift – who I interviewed before anyone had really heard of her – and Mary Chapin Carpenter,” she said.

“From Australia, the list is very long.

I’ve always loved catching up with Kasey Chambers, Darren Coggan, Felicity Urquhart, Gina Jeffreys, Lee Kernaghan, Troy CassarDaley, Beccy Cole and Graeme Connors – among many others.

“And I should probably mention my husband, Michael Fix – who I first met when I did a phone interview with him.

“It’s special to have known these artists from the start of their careers, then to be able to dip into their lives every couple of years, and report what’s happening.

“It really is like being part of a family, and that sense of belonging is a major driver for me, and has brought me a huge amount of pleasure over the years.”

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W RITING GREAT SONGS

ENTITLED

BY A L L A N CA S W E L L

IN ANY SONG, THE TITLE AND/OR HOOK ARE ITS MOST IMPORTANT COMPONENTS.

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t is the skeleton that all the other parts of the song hang from and contains its entire DNA. If you come up with a great title, your song is already a quarter finished … a great title can become a great song and an average title can, at best, only become a good song.

If you play me a song and I ask the title and you reply “I haven’t decided yet” …WRONG! You don’t decide what the song is called … the song does.

If Coca-Cola ever made a commercial without mentioning Coca-Cola, the advertising manager would lose his job.

Think of any great song … Stairway To Heaven, Lights On The Hill, A Little Further North Each Year, Am I Not Pretty Enough? American Pie or Your Cheating Heart … and you are never in any doubt as to what the song is called.

If the title isn’t readily apparent, it usually means that the song isn’t focused and is hard to follow. There are always exceptions … Bob Dylan’s Rainy Day Women mentions neither rain or women and Paul Simon’s 59th Street Bridge Song is usually referred to as Feeling Groovy … my take on that is … until you are Paul Simon or Bob Dylan, it’s better to stick with the programme.

Titles come at you in all kinds of ways and from all kinds of sources. You need to reach out and grab them … you also need to be discerning enough to tell the good ones from the crap ones and if someone says, “There’s a song in that”, there often isn’t. Listen to things people say normal

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conversation and they will feed you titles without knowing it.

ORIGINALITY I can’t, for the life of me, understand why anyone would deliberately use a title that has already been a hit in the past or a chart record recently. To me it says “I only care about my own stuff … I don’t care about other artists” or “I am not creative enough to have my own ideas” … here’s the bad news … the fans notice. It is a simple fix to change the title without spoiling your song … just find a new way to say what your song is trying to tell the listener. Historically, there have been cases of more than one song with the same title being hits but why make it hard for yourself?

A title should be the song’s calling card. It should be intriguing enough to get people’s attention.

It should also be a quick way into what the song is about.

You only have three minutes

or so to tell your story … you have no time to waste.

I do know of extreme cases where unscrupulous people have registered songs with the titles of famous hit songs in the hope of an accidental spill of royalties. Shonky raised to an artform.

TITLE RADAR There are song titles everywhere if you know where to look. My friend Michael Waugh was staying with us before going up to Gosford to record an album with Shane Nicholson. Before we started writing, Michael sent a text to his wife to tell her he was catching the train to Gosford the next day. Spellcheck changed Gosford to Godforsaken and we had our title …Train to Godforsaken … thanks Spellcheck.

My hero Mickey Newbury once had a call from a friend to say his wife had left him and he could use some company. When Mickey walked into the bar his friend came up to him and said “She even woke me up to say goodbye” … that became the title of one of Mickey’s biggest songs and he cut his friend in for a big slice of it. Titles are that important.

See you next month … maybe.

If you have a question regarding any aspects of song writing or are interested in my “one on one” private song writing coaching service based on the Gold Coast or details on upcoming songwriting workshops around the country … contact me at allan@ allancaswell.com

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

DOWN MEMORY LANE

TOGETHER IS BETTER

BY LORRAINE PFITZNER OAM

IT MADE SENSE THAT KENNY KITCHING AND HIS WIFE OF SEVEN YEARS EMMA HANNAH SHOULD RECORD TOGETHER, AS THEY WERE ALREADY MAKING BEAUTIFUL MUSIC AS A COUPLE.

K

enny & Emma thought their recording days were over but after talking with friend and musical producer Bob Howe the couple set out to record their duo album Sit With Me By The Water.

The eight-track album has a good mixture including six previously recorded and two new original songs.

Come On Over My Darling was written by Emma’s daughter Emmy Cooper, and Emma’s Woman In The Mirror is about how we often see the likeness of our parents in our reflections. Emma’s vocals are great and Kenny’s playing is fantastic on these new songs.

The six previously recorded songs are from the Wayfaring Stranger album recorded at Bob’s Kenilworth Studio in Sydney in 2005/6. They were remastered and added to the album and include Amazing Grace, Plaisir d’Amour and Wayfaring Stranger.

Bob played all the instruments on these tracks.

Kenny’s tracks are his originals Here Comes The years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

Dobro, released in 1974 and Dobros In Hawaii released in 1984.

Valley Of The Roses, by Roy Orbison and Joe Melson, was written in 1962 for the steel guitarist Jerry Byrd. Kenny recorded it in 1992.

During the 1950s Kenny was playing Hawaiian guitar, and was invited to join Edward ‘Ned’ Kelly and his band Western Five in 1955. His first country song was Your Cheatin’ Heart. At this time he played a 1940 model Rickenbacher Lap Steel.

In 1964, he met up with Speedy West, who was in Australia to do some TV shows.

Speedy encouraged Kenny to take up the pedal steel. He said “Don’t be frightened of these guitars Kenny, it’s just like driving a truck”, further explaining and adding

hand gestures – “Accelerator! Clutch! Accelerator!

Clutch!”. This led Kenny to getting his first pedal steel Fender 400 with no knee levers. He practiced on it for two weeks before using it at his regular gig at the time, at the Texas Tavern in Sydney.

Kenny was among the first generation of Australian steel and pedal steel players and felt very honoured to have played in the Palace of Queen Salote of Tonga in 1955, for the birthday of the Queen’s three-year-old granddaughter.

In 1977, Kenny was honoured by the Steel Guitar Hall of Fame in St Louis Missouri, USA, by being presented with a plaque of appreciation which was inscribed, “To Kenny Kitching, for your artistry on steel guitar and Dobro”. That same year he was presented with the coveted Steel Guitar Hall of Fame Jerry Byrd Lifetime Achievement Award, for steel guitar players.

Kenny has a great affection for his fellow musicians, and takes every opportunity to play and be among them.

Emma has had a very busy career in the music industry from her teenage years. She became very involved in the folk movement after early classical training, and has been a professional singer and musician since. Appearing on a variety of TV shows she made regular appearances on Gary Shearston’s ‘Just Folk’ TV Show during the mid-‘60s.

In the 1970s, Emma became a regular on John Williamson’s Travellin’ Out West TV series, further enhancing her national profile with personal concert appearances and regular club spots. Later on she made many appearances on television, including Reg Lindsay’s Country Homestead.

In 1979, she placed in hands in Tamworth’s Hands Of Fame.

Today, Kenny finds joy in playing his guitars, and together with his wife Emma, music continues to be a huge part of their lives.

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Jonny Taylor

Lawrie and Shelley Minson

Tracy Coster

The Long and the Short of it

COUNTDOWN

TO THE FESTIVAL LEADING UP TO THE OFFICIAL OPENING OF THE TAMWORTH COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL FROM JANUARY 4, YOU’LL FIND PLENTY OF GIGS AROUND TOWN TO KEEP YOUR FEET TAPPING.

B

efore things get too busy and the program fills up, it’s a great opportunity for you to see some shows, maybe learn how to line dance with Chris Watson and Dare 2 Dance on Sunday, January 12 at 1pm at Wests, or take in some of the attractions that abound in the Country Music Capital.

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Some of the artists doing shows in the countdown week include Kerry Kennedy and Double Barrel at the Tamworth Services Club, Tracy Coster from January 4 at the Southside Uniting

Church with her Up Close and Personal show, Lawrie and Shelley Minson, Marie Hodson and her Texas Troubadours, The Cartwheels, Allison Forbes, Jonny Taylor, The Long and Short Of It, Sally-Anne and the Rumour Mill – and so many others.

You won’t be short of entertainment in the lead-up to the main event.

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

FESTIVALS

TCMF2020

TOE SUCKERS

REUNITE AFTER TWO DECADES JUST WHEN YOU THOUGHT IT WAS SAFE TO PUT AWAY YOUR DOUBLE-PLUGGERS, IRREVERENT COUNTRY-ROOTS OUTFIT THE TOE SUCKING COWGIRLS ARE BACK FOR A 20-YEAR REUNION TOUR.

I

t’s hard to believe it’s two decades since the quirky twosome of Tracey Bunn and Glenys Rae burst onto the Tamworth country music scene.

With their irrepressible sense of humour, catchy songs and high-energy shows, the Toe Sucking Cowgirls packed in the crowds for six years from 2000 to 2006.

Sexy, contemporary, traditional and highly entertaining with vocal, songwriting and instrumental skills second-to none, they’ve performed from Darwin to the Dandenongs, at festivals, shearing sheds, mines, jails and roadside pubs.

To mark the 20th anniversary since Gleny and Tracey made their debut at an illustrious carpark stage in Winnellie, they’ve pulled the band out of retirement for a few very special shows.

So don your favourite doublepluggers, dip your toe in and come celebrate their infectious musical hotpot of Celtic-flavoured country with Cajun spice and a bluegrass twist that is downright irresistible.

Tracey and Gleny come from vastly different musical backgrounds but share a love for writing and singing songs with strong melodies and thoughtprovoking lyrics.

In the tradition of bush balladeers and folk writers, their

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A DREAM AND A SONG

Featuring The Drovers Friend Finalist in the Bush Ballad Of The Year 2020 Toyota Golden Guitar Awards LATEST SINGLE LIKE MY OLD MAN

songs tell tales of the Australian outback, life on the road, cheatin’ men and wild women, love and other four-letter words.

They met in Darwin in 1999 and after Gleny rediscovered the fiddle left behind her bedroom door gathering dust since her childhood music lessons with the nuns, and Tracey threw in her swag of original songs written on her many travels overseas, they packed up a short-wheel-base Toyota and hit the road.

The second year into their musical meanderings, they enlisted young ANU Jazz School graduate Sam Martin on double bass.

Murwillumbah drummer Grant Bedford joined the outfit on stand-up snare after stalking the trio for two years from venue to venue with his sticks and snare case at the ready.

The Cowgirls released three CDs and spent six years non-stop touring through six states and territories with international tours to the UK and Ireland, including an appearance at the famed Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

You can relive all the fun and frivolity during the Tamworth Country Music Festival at the Toe Sucking Cowgirls Reunion Roundup.

They’ll present four big shows at 8pm at The Event Centre, Wests on January 21, 22, 24 and 25 and one very special gig upstairs at Wests’ Diggers at 7pm on January 23.

Ahead of their Tamworth gigs, the Toe Sucking Cowgirls will share the love at the Illawarra Folk Festival.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your double-pluggers and get your tickets now.

Finalist “Album in O Year” an f The d Vocal” in “Male the 201 Southern 9 Stars A Indepen ustralian dent Country Music Awards

AVAILABLE NOW at www.johnodea.com.au years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

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SALUTING THE LIVING LEGENDS LESLIE SET TO CELEBRATE A ‘PEARLER’ OF A FESTIVAL

BOULDERCOMBE-BASED BUSH BALLADEER KEITH JAMIESON IS IN FOR A BUSY ROUND OF EVENTS DURING THE 2020 TAMWORTH COUNTRY MUSIC FESTIVAL.

T

he diva from south of the border, Leslie Avril returns to Tamworth for the 30th consecutive year.

Multi-talented Leslie Avril has built a reputation over the years as a killer in the liveperformance stakes.

Choosing to play with some of the very best pickers in the business, this year Leslie will feature a stellar line-up in her band – the one and only Sam (The Man) Lemann on guitar, George Washingmachine on fiddle, Garry Steel on accordion and keys, Dave Patterson on bass and driving the band from his trusty drumkit, Ron Mahony.

Leslie has released five very impressive CDs full of original songs, country blues, rockabilly, honky tonk, ‘50s classics, Cajun and French music.

From a theatrical family, it was only natural that Leslie would gravitate to the stage.

Since 1980 when she won a talent show, Leslie has been kept busy performing all over Australia and overseas.

In 2011, she was inducted into the Australian Country Music Hands of Fame.

Few can forget Leslie’s legendary shows upstairs at the Tudor Hotel, where magical moments abound.

Don’t miss this diva’s 30th Tamworth – her pearl anniversary.

You’ve only got three chances this festival – at the North Tamworth Bowling Club on Sunday, January 19 and Wednesday, January 22 (both shows start at 2pm) and at the Square Man Inn on Thursday, January 23 from 6.30pm till 9pm.

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Keith Jamieson, Alisha and Caitlyn Smith

H

e’s organised six big shows at Southside Uniting Church designed to captivate bush

ballad fans.

There’s something for everyone on the concerts, ranging from family shows, to gospel, country ladies and the big one on Tuesday, January 21, at 6pm – the Living Legends of Australian Country Music.

This all-star event features the one and only Sheik from Scrubby Creek, Chad Morgan, Rex Dallas, Reg Poole, Johnny Greenwood, Eddie Tapp, Terry Gordon, Jim Strohfeld, Clelia Adams, Keith Jamieson, Ernie Constance, Allan Caswell, Owen Blundell, Roger Knox, Col Hardy, Brian Letton,

Lindsay & Gail Hammond, Steve Newton and Rob Walters.

Former Hoedown DJ Garry Coxhead is master of ceremonies.

With tickets priced at $20, this is a greatvalue concert for your money.

Jammo winds up his Tamworth festival with a Bush Ballad Spectacular on Saturday, January 25 at high noon.

It’s another all-star cast with Chad Morgan, Reg Poole, Rex Dallas, Jeff Brown, Dean Perrett, Ginger Cox, Terry Gordon, Rodney Rivers, John & Christine Smith, Keith Jamieson, Alisha Smith, Caitlyn Jamieson, Kylie Castle, Jim Strohfeld, Rob Walters, Ray Essery, Johnny Greenwood, Gary Fogarty, Bec Hance and Pete Wilson.

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

FESTIVALS

TCMF2020

BUSH POETS RHYME IT UP AT THE FESTIVAL BUSH POETRY AND COUNTRY MUSIC GO HAND IN HAND – AND ON JUST ABOUT ANY DAY YOU CAN START YOUR MORNING WITH A GOOD DOSE OF YARNS AND LAUGHTER.

Greg “Champs” Champion

Peter Capp, Ray Essery and Errol Gray

You’ll see some of the Naked Poets

Dave “Prousty” Proust

N

eil McArthur’s Bush Poets’ Breakfast at The Longyard run from Saturday to Sunday for nine crazy days of rhyme and rhythm.

Sitting down to a brekky of bacon and eggs and taking in Neil’s morning merriment is how many people start their day, with his collection of poetic and musical pals including Greg Champion, Errol Gray, Prousty, Gregory North, Dave Prior, Ray Essery, Murray Hartin and Marco Gliori. That last lot sounds almost like a Naked Poets’ reunion!

Graeme Johnson presents the Rhymer’s Roundup at North Tamworth Bowlo, with a variety of special guests each day – poets and musical mates.

There’s Bush Poets and Balladeers at West Tamworth Bowlo and the Australian Bush Poetry Association is offering walk-ups, workshops and so much more at Southside Uniting Church each day.

On behalf of the ABPA, Ray Essery hosts the Frank Daniel Encouragement Award for aspiring bush poets, as well as the annual Golden Damper awards.

Nundle’s Peel Inn always finishes its festival off with a laugh, as Ray Essery, Errol Gray and David Elson present poems, songs and yarn for the pub’s festival finale.

SINGER-SONGWRITER Latest album available at all TCMF shows – see Live Music Scene or visit Facebook page Kelly Cork Musician/Band years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

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FESTIVALS

TCMF2020

FUNDING IN PLACE FOR TAMWORTH’S 50TH FESTIVAL ONGOING SUPPORT HAS BEEN PLEDGED FROM THE NSW GOVERNMENT FOR THE TOYOTA COUNTRY MUSICAL FESTIVAL, TAMWORTH UNTIL 2022.

M

ember for Tamworth Kevin Anderson announced the support saying that the iconic event that showcases our country music stars and homegrown musical talent was an important date on the Australian events calendar.

“This is fantastic news for Tamworth as the festival is one of Australia’s biggest regional events and 2020 will be no exception.

“We are delighted that our support for the next three years through our

tourism and major events agency Destination NSW, will include celebrating the event’s 50th anniversary in 2022, which is an outstanding milestone indeed.

“If we could get a small flood, it would really cap off a top-notch festival,” Mr Anderson concluded.

Minister for Tourism Stuart Ayres noted the event’s impact on the region and encouraged revellers to start planning their trip to Australia’s country music capital.

“Our State is unquestionably the

home of major events and the NSW Government remains committed to investing in rural and regional events.

“I encourage country music fans across Australia to start planning their visit to Tamworth next year, for what is sure to be another unforgettable country NSW event,” said Mr Ayres.

The 2020 Toyota Country Music Festival Tamworth runs from January 17 to 26, with over 700 artists performing across more than 100 venues as part of 2,800 scheduled events across the festival period.

For all ticketing and festival details head to www.tcmf.com.au

Lloyd Back Out now the album from international award winning singer-songwriter LLOYD BACK Includes the top 5 single Everyone Has A Story $25 posted in Australia or $9.99 download from www.lloydback.com Booking 2020 gigs now: Call 0401 819 111 or Email lloyd@lloydback.com 56

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years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

years of bringing you the music 1975â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2020

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WORLD-CLASS BAND ON BOWLO STAGE NEW DIMENSION TO CELEBRATED SUPERGROUP

NASHVILLE HAS THE TIME JUMPERS – AUSTRALIA HAS THE SPINDRIFTERS – AND THEY’RE IN TAMWORTH FOR ONE SHOW ONLY DURING THE 2020 FESTIVAL.

T

hirty-five years ago, a supergroup formed in America – The Highwaymen.

Australia’s answer to that supergroup, 4 Highwaymen, will celebrate their illustrious namesakes’ formation in two great concerts at the 2020 Tamworth Country Music Festival.

It’s also 10 years since 4 Highwaymen formed, to salute the songs and music of Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, Johnny Cash and Kris Kristofferson.

Originally the 4 Highwaymen line-up included Rob Wilson, who sadly passed away on New Year’s Eve 2018.

Following Rob’s untimely passing, the group took a short hiatus and, in the meantime, enlisted the services of celebrated singer-songwriter Chris Callaghan to join the troupe.

While most people would have seen Chris celebrate the work of Johnny Cash in concert, word has it that he’s blown away people by his portrayal of the late Waylon Jennings.

The 4 Highwaymen shows at the Longyard are always sellouts, so it’s advisable to get your tickets early to avoid disappointment.

With Chris’s input, it’s going to be quite a show, along with the usual talents of Bruce McCumstie (Willie Nelson), Alan Bowles (Johnny Cash) and Bryen Willems (Kris Kristofferson), and their hot band.

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his 10-piece supergroup is composed of the cream of Australia’s crop of fine musicians and they’ll be on deck at 2.30pm on Tuesday, January 21 at North Tamworth Bowling Club, the home of Andrew Clermont’s International Supper Club.

The impressive line-up is: Eight-time 2020 Golden Guitar finalist Felicity Urquhart out front; with the magical combination of George Washingmachine and Clare O’Meara on twin fiddles; direct from Nashville Stuie French on lead guitar; the sublime Geoff Simpson on bass; rhythm rascal Brad Bergen on drums; the incomparable Garry Steel on accordion and keys; and band wrangler Andrew Richardson on guitar.

This year the SpinDrifters have two very special guest players – Dr Zane Banks on guitar and vocals and Jy-Perry Banks on pedal steel. These multi-talented brothers would be familiar to Sydney and Tamworth audiences as part of hot rockabilly outfit, Cruisin’ Deuces and other cool acts – and they’ll

C O U N T RY M U S I C C A P I TA L N E W S J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

add a dynamic component to this super-hot supergroup.

For Andrew Richardson, playing with The SpinDrifters is one of the reasons he breathes in and out.

“Playing with these monster musicians is a huge part of my Tamworth festival,” Andrew said.

For many years, The SpinDrifters have enjoyed a monthly residency at The Basement in Sydney, drawing huge crowds of fans and fellow musicians along to see the show – and it’s always a sellout.

The players in this 10-piece band share a love of western swing, pure country, jazz and blues and those sweet sounds have been enjoyed by audiences for many years at the festival.

Don’t miss your chance to see one of the finest bands in town. Tickets are now on sale at the club.

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

FESTIVALS

TCMF2020

BALLADEERS BAND TOGETHER FOR THE CHOPPER FOR THOSE EARLY BIRDS IN TAMWORTH, THEREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S A GREAT GIG THE WEEKEND BEFORE THE FESTIVAL PROPER BEGINS.

I

tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s at the Kootingal Bowling Club on Sunday, January 12 and is an all-day event, designed to raise money for the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service.

Presented by the Tamworth Bush Balladeers, some of the acts you can enjoy on the day include Tom Maxwell, Kimberley Gold, Big Al Herbert, Rex Dallas, Tom Manning, FredBear, Graeme â&#x20AC;&#x153;Dubbyâ&#x20AC;? Doubleday and Sam and Brooke Thompson.

All of these acts will be backed by the Dally Croft Band and introduced by compere extraordinaire, Brian Howard.

There will be continuous raffles throughout the day, and non-stop music from 10am to 5pm.

For a taste of things to come, head out on out to the Kooty Bowlo and help support this essential service.

TAMWORTH COWBOY

Tom Maxwell

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The Best In Country Music

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Plus much mor • Direct access from Penrith Station • Unlimited FREE amusement rides all day (22 rides) • Concert sound & full stage • Specialist trade stalls & displays $35 • Entertaining games & competitions Adults hildren C • Free Balloons & Fairy Floss up to 3 • Free face painting adultt aying 25 p h it w ionentr$y) essso • BBQ, drinks & beer tents n Co(sninc gle per 16, under d n re ild • Major prizes & trophies uire (Ch t ID req rs) n e d tu a S 13 ye if over • Price includes entry to Museum

MUSEUM OF FIRE

FREE

10th Annual Sydney Classic & Antique Truckshow on 31st May, 2020 (See website for more details) 60

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Sunday 29th March 2020

8am - 4pm Presentations 4pm - 5pm

Ph: 4731 5809 Held at Museum of Fire, 1 Museum Drive, Penrith. Phone: (02) 4731 3000 The Museum is a registered charity and all funds raised are directed towards saving our families from the dangers of fire while preserving the heritage of our communities bravest.

-VSSV^ \Z VU! U!

www.pwts.com.au years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

FESTIVALS

PENRITH

PENRITH WORKING TRUCK SHOW

The Wolfe Brothers

Jayne Denham

IF THERE WAS EVER A TIME TO BE SUPPORTING OUR FIRIES IT’S NOW.

T

he 33rd Penrith Working Truck Show will hold its annual exhibition to allow the public to view and experience the Museum of Fire.

The event will be held on Sunday, March 29 from 8am to 4pm and includes non-stop entertainment, rides and unique exhibits.

Each year more than 20,000 people flock to the museum which is located in Penrith.

Hundreds of vehicles will be on display, from Huge B Doubles to custom trucks plastered with chrome detailing and spectacular airbrushing, together with the outstanding collection of Fire Engines owned by the museum. years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

There will be live entertainment all day featuring The Wolfe Brothers, Simply Bushed, Jayne Denham, 2019 Toyota Star Maker Blake O’Connor as well as the Hype band.

Children will be kept busy with 26 free rides, free fairy floss, free face painting, free airbrush tattooing and other activities that are sure to keep parents happy too. Tickets are $35 and with each adult ticket purchase, three children can

enter for free (Under 16 years). Concession tickets are available for $25 each; however, no children can enter free on this ticket (Single person entry only).

For this cost, all rides, entertainment, activities and exhibits inside the show are free. We think it is the best value family day in Sydney today.

Being a registered charity event, all funds raised from the show will be used to educate families in fire safety and to preserve the history of our bravest.

The event is supported by local firefighters, who are helping to run the event so let’s get behind our firefighters and support this annual appeal.

For further information please contact the Museum of Fire on 02 4731 3000 or visit our website www.pwts.com.au

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DODGE’S FERRY

APPLES FOR BREAKFAST? ARE YOU THINKING ABOUT WHERE TO GO NEXT ON THE FESTIVAL CALENDAR? HOW ABOUT TASMANIA, THE APPLE ISLE, FOR A BUSH POET’S BREAKFAST?

T

he Dodge’s Ferry Bush Poets’ Breakfast event will be held at Dodges Ferry on

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February 9 and will feature Queenslanders Gary Fogarty and Jack Drake, and Keith “Cobber” Lethbridge from WA. Dodges Ferry is a beautiful area located 10 minutes out of Sorell on the south-east coast of Tasmania, in the southern beaches area, half an hour from Hobart and

C O U N T RY M U S I C C A P I TA L N E W S J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

approximately 20 mins from Hobart Airport.

The program includes bush poet’s performances from 8:30am-12:30pm with country/bluegrass band Country Strangers playing at intervals throughout the morning; a called bush dance will be hosted by the Steptoe Bush Band from 2-5pm and there’ll be a yarn spinner’s session from 6-9pm.

Breakfast is from 7.30 and a cold buffet lunch will be available from 12.30pm with prepaid bookings essential.

It’s encouraged to bring a fold up chair, and a hat or umbrella.

For more details, accommodation list, campsites, Spirit of Tasmania discount visit the Facebook page DodgesTasmania or the website infododgesferrybpb.wixsite.com/ mysite Contact Cheryle Holmes on mobile 0438 881 065 or email info.dodgesferrybpb@yahoo.com

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

FESTIVALS

GIDGEE COAL AWARDS

BROWNIE TAKES THREE

Find the full list of finalists below. * Denotes winner

MALE VOCAL Ashley Cook – The Five Stars Bruce Lavender – Riding Out the Storm Jeff Brown – More Times Than I Remember*

FEMALE VOCAL Anita Ree – Sweet Sugar Cane Dianne Lindsay – The Bridge Laura Downing – Home is Waiting Here*

GROUP OR DUO/ COLLABORATION Dianne Lindsay & Peter Simpson – Out There* Gary Ellis & Tessa Libreri – I’ll Be Home Soon Laura Downing & Glenn Jones – Rolling Wagons

INSTRUMENTAL Lindsay Hammond – Big Gulf Rivers* Peter Simpson – When the Currawongs Come Down Terry Bennetts & Ginger Cox – Slim Dusty Medley

JEFF BROWN HAS TAKEN TOP HONOURS AT THIS YEAR’S 2019 ALAN LUSCOMBE MEMORIAL GIDGEE COAL BUSH BALLAD AWARDS HELD AT PITTSWORTH, QLD, WINNING OR SHARING IN THREE AWARD CATEGORIES.

H

e won the album award for More Times Than I Remember, the title track also winning him the male vocal title and he shared songwriter accolades with Kelly & Marion Dixon for After January Rains.

Laura Downing was announced as winner of the female vocal award for Home Is Waiting

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

ALBUM Jeff Brown – More Times Than I Remember* Laura Downing – The Guardian Peter Simpson – Bush Picker Collection

SONGWRITER

Here and Dianne Lindsay & Peter Simpson won in group or duo/collaboration for their song Out There.

The instrumental award went to Lindsay Hammond with Big Gulf Rivers and Comedy/ Novelty was won by Ashley Cook with Two Day Course.

Kev Groves and Bud Thomson & Lynne Bennett received the Gidgee Coal Legend Award.

Dianne Lindsay & Peter Simpson – Out There Jeff Brown, Kelly and Marian Dixon – After January Rains*

John O’Dea – Back in Birdsville

COMEDY/NOVELTY Ashley Cook – Two Day Course* Bruce Lavender – Wild Ride Jeff Brown – Tomorrow

C O U N T RY M U S I C C A P I TA L N E W S JA N UA RY 2 0 2 0

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years of bringing you the music 1975â&#x20AC;&#x201C;2020

FESTIVALS

SOUTHERN STARS

CARTER & CARTER TRIPLE WIN

Winners Dianne Lindsay, Kiara Rodrigues and Darren Coggan’s parents receiving awards on his behalf

COUNTRY MUSIC’S MUCH-LOVED COUPLE, CARTER & CARTER, ADDED THREE TROPHIES TO THEIR CABINET FOLLOWING THE 2019 SOUTHERN STARS – THE 23RD AUSTRALIAN INDEPENDENT COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS.

T

he awards, held in October, saw David and Merelyn Carter receive the Wentworth Community Bank Australian Independent Group/Duo of the Year and APRA AMCOS Australian Independent Country Music Single of the Year with Together We Can, and named Australian Independent Artist of the Year.

The popular duo, who has the most independent awards of any artists at the Southern Stars again, took out the Group/Duo section in 2018.

Darren Coggan took home the double receiving the awards for APRA AMCOS Australian Independent Album of the Year for Like A Rhinestone Cowboy, a salute to the late icon Glen Campbell, and he also won Capital News Australian Independent Male Vocalist of the

Year with The Moon Is A Harsh Mistress. His parents accepted his awards on his behalf.

Rounding out the awards are Tom Maxwell who received the QANTAS Australian Independent Bush Ballad of the Year award with Dust Of Australia, Kiara Rodrigues received the award for Australian Independent Female Rising Star with Pretty Baby Blues and Dianne Lindsay took home the award as Capital News Australian Independent Female Vocalist of the Year for Paddy’s Soul.

John Arnold was acknowledged for 30 years of Outstanding Service to the Mildura Country Music Festival. His wife Ros, who’s been beside him throughout, was in attendance to not only to applaud her husband but to acknowledged as the silent partner.

The awards are held annually as a highpoint to the Mildura Country Music Festival.

For further information, phone 0418 303 206.

Find more details on the website milduracountrymusic. com.au

THE SOUTHERN STARS - THE AUSTRALIAN INDEPENDENT COUNTRY MUSIC AWARDS WINNERS 2019 APRA AMCOS AUSTRALIAN INDEPENDENT COUNTRY MUSIC SINGLE OF THE YEAR Together We Can

Carter & Carter

APRA AMCOS AUSTRALIAN INDEPENDENT ALBUM OF THE YEAR Like A Rhinestone Cowboy

Darren Coggan

QANTAS AUSTRALIAN INDEPENDENT BUSH BALLAD OF THE YEAR Dust Of Australia

Tom Maxwell

CAPITAL NEWS AUSTRALIAN INDEPENDENT MALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR Darren Coggan

CAPITAL NEWS AUSTRALIAN INDEPENDENT FEMALE VOCALIST OF THE YEAR Dianne Lindsay

Carter & Carter

Kiara Rodrigues

Carter & Carter

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

Paddy’s Soul

WENTWORTH COMMUNITY BANK AUSTRALIAN INDEPENDENT GROUP/DUO OF THE YEAR

AUSTRALIAN INDEPENDENT RISING STAR FEMALE Pretty Baby Blues

The Moon Is A Harsh Mistress

Together We Can

AUSTRALIAN INDEPENDENT ARTIST OF THE YEAR

C O U N T RY M U S I C C A P I TA L N E W S J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

65

SOUNDADVICE WESTERN STARS: SONG FROM THE FILM BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN SONY MUSIC It wasn’t that long ago that The Boss released the studio version of the Western Stars album and this film soundtrack comes hot on its heels with what could best be described as a live presentation of the material. In the film Springsteen sings all 13 original songs from the studio album (sometimes accompanied by gorgeous Western footage in the film) and with country/folk tinges, it all adds up to a once-in-a-lifetime experience. The recording should appeal to his fans in a similar way to that of the recent soundtrack recording of his Tony awardwinning Broadway shows. If you have the original studio album you’ll notice some changes, including a 30-piece orchestra, but there’s something more intimate in the delivery which has allowed Springsteen to delve deeper into the songs and their characters. For me the highlights are Chasin’ Wild Horses, Sleepy Joe’s Café, Somewhere North Of Nashville and Tucson Train – but I’m sure you’ll find your own favourites. He finishes this album with a great version of Rhinestone Cowboy.

SONY/19075997081 JON WOLFE

WALK AWAY

SUNDAY TOWN

OLD DOMINION

NOVEMBER 72

INDEPENDENT

INDEPENDENT

SONY/RCA

INDEPENDENT

This debut album had been a long time coming – Karin won the Toyota Star Maker competition in 2016 – but is well worth the wait. There are 10 tracks, seven of which Karin has penned herself and one with Kevin Bennet, one with Mark Narmore and one with Emily Smith. Every song brings heartfelt lyrics, great music and a consolidation that acknowledges Karin’s choice as a Star Maker winner. The opener, Box, featuring Ash Grunwald, charted well and the follow-up, Jessie, also did well, but there are other songs here that are equally deserving of chart action - Under My Skin, Take Me Down (my fav), Walk Away, Time Travelling Gypsy and the last track Loving Man, which again features Ash and Hussy Hicks (Leesa Gentz and Julz Parker). Karin writes and sings from deep-set emotions you know you are being given a very unique glimpse of her life and feelings – and there is a sense of joy tinged with a little sadness, and maybe she’s glimpsed your story too.

I immediately fell for this 9-tracker on first hearing and although I’ve known Chad and heard him sing live many times, I was pleasantly surprised. Surprised by the strength and the insightfulness of the lyrics and surprised by what I have to say is probably one of the best Australian alt-country efforts I’ve heard. There’s slow numbers like Upon Me, Travellin’ Man, Rodeo and the title song.

Then there’s the Western movie soundtrack drive of Credit Card balanced by the bluesy What They Say. And he leaves us on a joyful traditional high with the last track – Brown Muskat. Chad wrote all the songs and producer Ronnie Rindo and the team of some of Tamworth’s best pickers and players have brought them to life in this home-grown effort recorded at ENREC Studios by Steve Newton. A self-admitted late starter, Chad has certainly bloomed with this recording and thankfully we still have dreamers who are willing to put their all on the line and share their talent with us lesser individuals.

The Virginian quintet, named after its home state, ensures publishing royalties boomerang back home.

They wrote all 12 songs on an energised third album including five with Shane McAnally with whom they shared production. It’s no surprise this is a radio friendly romp, with videos for entrée Make It Sweet and One Man Band. Prolific writer-lead singer-guitarist Matthew Ramsay guides guitarists Brad Tursi and Trevor Rosen, bassist Geoff Sprung and drummer Whit Sellers on background vocals. Ace imagery drives melancholic like My Heart Is A Bar (and I’m closing it down), sensual Midnight Mess Around, Smooth Sailing and Do It With Me. Equally accessible are Never Be Sorry, rain drenched regret in Hear You Now and Stratocaster reference to propel American Style. But the peak is I’ll Roll that uses a dream from a novel by late Beat author Jack Kerouac as a navigator name check in a highway homage. Idyllic imagery of Paint The Grass Green segues into fatalistic finale Some People Do that features recent Georgian tourist Thomas Rhett as co-writer. Beatific bliss.

Melbourne singer-songwriter Michael Meeking ensured his video for Where Are You Going To from his fourth album had an aquatic feel midst our drought and fire phoenixes. Meeking filmed and directed his provocative and scenic musical journey, riddled with riveting reflections, at locales diverse as Mansfield, Lake Eildon and bayside beaches.

He ploughs seventies nostalgia from exploratory entrée Great Unknown, driven by freedom desires despite lost highway hurdles. Meeking wrote all tunes on his Chet Atkins issue Gretsch guitar on a road trip inspired disc produced by drummer Roger Bergodaz. His plaintive plea to an absent lover in Nicolena segues into exorcism of mountainous materialism in Take Em Out. Meeking digs deep into a redemptive romantic scenario in Little Lie and ignites passion for a femme fatale in Take A Walk.

He also exercises ominous but positive passion in the shadows of Dark Clouds and uplifts soulful sacrificial sibling Blood Brother.

KARIN PAGE

www.karinpage.com JON WOLFE

66

CHAD SINCLAIR

INDIE CS001 JON WOLFE

C O U N T RY M U S I C C A P I TA L N E W S J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

SELF TITLED

RCA/19075891832 DAVID DAWSON

MICHAEL MEEKING

INDIE/MMCD004 DAVID DAWSON

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

SOUND ADVICE - album reviews are the reviewers’ own opinions and do not necessarily reflect the view of Capital News or the publisher. Sound Advice will accept unsolicited albums for consideration, but cannot guarantee published reviews. Sound Advice does not review singles. Send 2 CDs together with biography or media release to Capital News, PO Box 555, Tamworth NSW 2340 and email a jpg of the cover to cheryl@tamworthcountrymusic.com.au TELL ME WHY ARCHIE ROACH BLOODLINE This double CD set is a companion piece to the book of the same name (published by Simon & Schuster) and presents some new recordings and some old, but every track is a highlight in its own right. It includes 11 songs which have formed the core of Archie’s musical canon, including Took The Children Away, Down City Streets and Nopun Kurongk. There are a number of firsts on the release as well - he joins with Paul Kelly on their co-write Rally Round The Drum – a first for the pair as they have never recorded this song together before. Open Up Your Eyes, is the first song Archie ever wrote, but has only now recorded. All up, there are 18 tracks and every one is a tour de force – as should only be expected from this insightful songwriter who has spoken forcefully and eloquently for his people and is simply one of the most incredible songsmiths of our time, often aided and abetted by his late wife Ruby Hunter.

MUSHROOM BLOOD62S JON WOLFE

FEARLESS RIDER

DYED IN THE WOOL

RIGHT KIND OF WRONG

WE’RE STILL HERE

INDEPENDENT

INDEPENDENT

INDEPENDENT

INDEPENDENT

Brook Chivell’s own take on a country rock album is a real piece of work, it appears this Australian Country Music artist had one mission in mind – to entertain.

His clever guitar riffs, punchy lyrics and his signature vocals really make this release one to have on rotation this summer. Chivell sets the tone for the album with the opening track, That’s What We Are, and from there the hits keep coming and he continues to lure you in with those party vibes and dance floor filler melodies. While it might all seem to be a party in motion, his softer side is shown in track three with Natalie Pearson in the song, I Wonder What You Kiss Like and track seven, Our Song but Chivell is consistent in keeping even the most romantic moments up tempo and interesting. Overall, this is 12 tracks of easy listening from Chivell that provoke feelings of happiness, excitement and intrigue.

Legendary Australian band, The Bushwackers, celebrate the lifestyle of regional Australians and the wool industry with their new album, Dyed In The Wool.

Other than the lead single, Marijuana Australiana Rehashed, the album is filled to the brim with songs around the them of the wool industry with some songs that you may have heard the Wackers sing before, and some that will be new to you.

All are new recordings, though.

Highlights for me are the jaunty traditionals including Lazy Harry’s and Lachlan Tigers, and the band show they’re never afraid to have their say on important issues, addressing medicinal cannabis and its benefits in Marijuana Australiana Rehashed. Dyed In The Wool is The Bushwackers at their traditional best. It’s hard to sit still while listening and I guarantee you’ll want to get up and do a jig around the woolshed before too long. There is not a dag to be seen or heard and the musicianship and production is classed as superfine.

Think of a surprise gift that you’ve opened on Christmas Day. This is the feeling you can liken to Megan Sidwell’s latest release.

Layer by layer you unwrap gifts in the form of the seven songs on this EP. Sidwell cleverly captures the themes of love and its all encompassing highs and lows.

It’s really one for the hopeless romantic deep down in all of us.

Sidwell showcases her versatility here, the title track Right Kind of Wrong with its rocky vibes, conveys the thoughts of a love that is wrong but is the perfect fit.

But then Sidwell takes it down a notch with the ballad The Chase in which her vocals are showcased with the subtleness of piano and percussion. Then she reverts back to those rocky vibes in track seven, Seventeen. If you’re looking for something that’s easy to listen to, to provoke thought and emotion and where the messages aren’t hidden look no further than this one – it really is a lover’s delight.

From the first notes of banjo riffdriven opening track In The West, We’re Still Here is another gem from Golden Guitar winner Tom Curtain full of personal stories from the moving to the humorous.

Tom is not singing songs about topics and experiences for the sake of pleasing his country listeners – he is the real deal. As a horse and dog trainer running Katherine Outback Experience in the NT with a lifetime of experience working the land, there’s not much he can’t sing and write about when it comes to regional Australia. The title track celebrates the resilience of regional Australia, while Tom’s collaboration with Sara Storer and Lee Kernaghan, She Gave Us The Song, pays tribute to Joy McKean. Rock The Rock will have the most reluctant dancer up on their feet, Hitchhiker tells the story of how Tom and his wife Annabel met, and listeners are more than rewarded for listening to the full album with one of my favourites being the closing track, Something Going On Out Here.

BROOKE CHIVELL

INDEPENDENT HALEY SHERIDAN

THE BUSHWACKERS

INDEPENDENT BW012 REBECCA GRACIE

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

MEGAN SIDWELL

INDIE HALEY SHERIDAN

TOM CURTAIN

INDEPENDENT TC20194 REBECCA GRACIE

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COUNTRYCHARTS ARIA TOP 20 AUSTRALIAN COUNTRY ALBUMS Week Commencing 16 December 2019 LW TI

HP WK ARTIST TITLE

CO

1 1 61 1 MORGAN EVANS 2 2 31 1 3 R/E 15 2 4 3

1087 1

5 4 85 1 6 5 188 1 7 7 173 1 8 14 419 1 9 11 627 1 10 8

396 1

11 12 86 1 12 15 60 1 13 9 74 1 14 13 317 1 15 10 402 1 16 R/E 98 1 17 18 297 2 18 R/E 9 1 19 20 168 10 20 19 18 1

Things That We Drink To WAR LEE KERNAGHAN Backroad Nation ABC/UMA FELICITY URQUHART Frozen Rabbit ABC/UMA SLIM DUSTY The Very Best of Slim Dusty EMI KEITH URBAN Graffiti U CAP/EMI KEITH URBAN Ripcord CAP/EMI JOHN WILLIAMSON This Favourite Collection WAR LEE KERNAGHAN Ultimate Hits ABC/UMA KEITH URBAN Greatest Hits: 18 Kids CAP/EMI KEITH URBAN The Story So Far CAP/EMI THE WOLFE BROTHERS Country Heart ABC/UMA ADAM BRAND Greatest Hits BDL/UMA TROY CASSAR-DALEY & ADAM HARVEY Milestones … 20 years ABC/UMA KASEY CHAMBERS The Great Country Songbook SME LEE KERNAGHAN The Captain UMA JOHN WILLIAMSON The 25th Anniversary Album ABC/UMA JOHN WILLIAMSON A Hell Of A Career!

WAR DAN MULLINS Duende AMB/SME KASEY CHAMBERS 4 Box: The Captain/Barricades & Brickwalls/Wayward Angel/Carnival EMI SARA STORER Raindance UMA

COUNTRY SONGS Week ending 21 December 2019. This chart is published by Campfire Publishing and updated weekly at countrytrackschart.com.au POS

LW

TI

HP

ARTIST

TRACK TITLE

1 27 2 1(1) KEVIN SULLIVAN

Just Don’t Mention Christmas

2 1 9 1(3) AMBER LAWRENCE

Hell To Hallelujah

3 24 3 3(1) DELLA HARRIS

Must Have Been The Wine

4 10 6 4(1) JED ZARB

Battle-Scarred Guitar

5 36 12 5(1) THE SILVERLINE

Let The Rain Fall

6 3 7 2(1) LLOYD BACK

Stronger

7 4 4 2(1) TOM CURTAIN

She Gave Us The Song

8 5 13 1(5) ALY COOK

Red Dirt Road Trip

9 0 1 9(1) BENN GUNN

Luckiest Man Alive

10 6 8 5(1) CASEY BARNES

A Little More

11 11 8 4(1) DREW MCALISTER

Live Young

12 18 14 1(1) EMMA JENE

Feels So Good

13 34 2 13(1) CASEY BARNES & MISSY LANCASTER

No Other You

14 2 12 1(2) MATT SCULLION

Slanguage

15 16 7 6(1) MICHELLE RUSSELL

One Man Party

16 26 4 16(1) MORGAN EVANS

Diamonds

17 12 3 12(1) EMMA DYKES

The Drovers

18 14 4 14(1) BRAD COX

Give Me Tonight

19 20 17 2(1) HAYLEY MARSTEN

Red Wine, White Dress

20 8 10 8(1) RUNAWAY DIXIE

Red Flowers

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years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

TMN COUNTRY AIRPLAY CHART Week ending 15 November 2020 TW LM TI

HP ARTIST

TITLE

LABEL

1 1 1 7 MELANIE DYER

Memphis T-Shirt

UMG

2 2 2 6 MORGAN EVANS

Diamonds

WMG

3 7 3 8 KELSEA BALLERINI

homecoming queen?

4 3 1 8 LEE KERNAGHAN FEAT. ROBBY X

Where I Wanna Be

UMG

5 10 5 8 AMBER LAWRENCE

Hell To Hallelujah

UMG

6 5 5 5 BRAD COX

Give Me Tonight

SME

7 4 1 8 LUKE COMBS FEAT. BROOKS & DUNN

1, 2 Many

8 9 2 8 SAM HUNT

Kinfolks

9 8 3 8 DAN + SHAY FEAT. JUSTIN BIEBER

10,000 Hours

10 6 1 8 KIP MOORE

She’s Mine

11 11 1 8 MIRANDA LAMBERT

It All Comes Out In The Wash

SME

12 12 10 3 OH HARLOW

Give It A Miss

Ind.

13 14 9 8 LUKE BRYAN

What She Wants Tonight

14 28 14 6 MAREN MORRIS

The Bones

SME

15 17 2 8 CASEY BARNES

A Little More

Ind.

16 26 16 3 FANNY LUMSDEN

These Days

Ind.

17 15 15 4 MITCHELL TENPENNY FEAT. SEAFORTH

Anything She Says

SME

SME

SME UMG WMG/UMG* UMG

UMG

18 24 7 7 DUSTIN LYNCH

Ridin’ Roads

19 86 19 1 BUCKLEYS, THE

I’m Comin’ For Ya (Love)

20 20 20 3 CHARLIE COLLINS

I Dont Want To Be In A Rock Band

Ind. UMG Ind.

CMC TOP 50 Week Ending 21 December. This chart is updated weekly at countrymusicchannel.com.au or tune into CMC. TW ARTIST

TITLE

LABEL

TW ARTIST

TITLE

LABEL

1 TIM HICKS

What A Song Should Do OPEN ROAD/ABC

27 CARRIE UNDERWOOD Drinking Alone

2 MIRANDA LAMBERT

It All Comes Out In The Wash

SONY

28 CASEY BARNES

A Little More

3 MAREN MORRIS 4 BLAKE SHELTON FT. TRACE ADKINS

The Bones

SONY

29 CHARLIE COLLINS

Please Let Me Go

30 LUKE COMBS

1, 2 Many

SONY

5 KIRSTY LEE AKERS

Heart Of Stone

31 TAYLOR MOSS

Let Me Be

SOCIAL FAMILY RECORDS

6 KELSEA BALLERINI

Homecoming Queen

32 INGRID ANDRESS

More Hearts Than Mine Hayrunner

Hell Right

WARNER SOCIAL FAMILY RECORDS BLACK RIVER/SONY

7 THE WOLFE BROTHERS Hey Brother 9 LOCASH

One Big Country Song WHEELHOUSE/BMG

33 SARA STORER 34 ANDREW SWIFT & GRETTA ZILLER

10 JIMMIE ALLEN

Make Me Want To

35 DOZZI

Ramones T Shirt

36 NIKO MOON

Good Time

37 LITTLE BIG TOWN

Over Drinking

38 MORGAN EVANS

Diamonds

ABC

8 DAN+SHAY FT. JUSTIN BEIBER 10,000 Hours

WARNER

STONEY CREEK/BMG

Second Hand

CAPITOL CHUGG/MGM MIRROR

WARNER UMA

SOCIAL FAMILY RECORDS INDPENDENT WARNER

11 JASON ALDEAN

We Back

12 LEE KERNAGHAN

Where I Wanna Be

13 MELANIE DYER

Memphis T-Shirt

14 ADAM BRAND

Speed of Life

ABC

39 LUKE BRYAN

What She Wants Tonight

EMI

15 GORD BAMFORD

#REDNEK

ABC

40 AMBER LAWRENCE

Hell To Hallelujah

ABC

ABC

41 MICHAEL WAUGH 42 GARTH BROOKS W/ BLAKE SHELTON

Big Things

BROKEN BOW/BMG ABC UMA

16 THE SUNNY COWGIRLS Raining Pineapples 17 DUSTIN LYNCH

Ridin’ Roads

18 JETTY ROAD

Bumps & Bruises

19 FANNY LUMSDEN

These Days

20 HAYLEY MARSTEN

Red Wine, White Dress

21 KIP MOORE

She’s Mine

BROKEN BOW/BMG SOCIAL FAMILY RECORDS

22 JASMINE RAE Party On The Couch 23 CHRISTIE LAMB FT. DREW BALDRIDGE You Brought The Party

COOKING VINYL INDEPENDENT

PEARL

43 KIMBERLEY BOWDEN Can’t Stop Livin’ It

INDEPENDENT

44 KAYLEE BELL

Wasted On You

INDEPENDENT

45 ROO ARCUS

Tumbleweed

46 MICK LINDSAY

If You’re Sleeping

ABC

47 DARLINGHURST

So Long So Long Body Language

24 JODY DIREEN

All Nighter

ABC

48 ABBY CHRISTO

25 TRAVIS COLLINS

Make Up

ABC

49 CHELSEA BERMAN

Wherever I Go

26 MADDIE & TAE

Die From A Broken Heart MERCURY/UMA

50 BRAD COX

Rusty Strings

years of bringing you the music 1975–2020

COMPASS BROS

Dive Bar

ABC

UMA

EMI WARNER

SOCIAL FAMILY RECORDS INDEPENDENT HELIUM INDEPENDENT SOCIAL FAMILY RECORDS

C O U N T RY M U S I C C A P I TA L N E W S J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

SONY 69

COMINGEVENTS JANUARY 2020 8-12 17-26 19 25 25-26

Parkes Elvis Festival | NSW | Contact: Cathy Treasure, Festival Director | T: 02 6862 6000 | E: elvis@parkes.nsw.gov.au | parkeselvisfestival.com.au 2020 Toyota Country Music Festival | Tamworth | NSW | tcmf.com.au 2020 Toyota Star Maker | Toyota Park | Tamworth | NSW | starmaker.com.au 2020 Toyota Golden Guitar Awards | Tamworth Regional Entertainment & Conference Centre | NSW Matamata Piako CM Awards | Overall Junior, Intermediate, Senior, Veteran & Songwriter categories will be eligible for the 2019 Entertainer of the Year

FEBRUARY 2020 1-2

35th Bungendore CM Muster | Walk-ups, poets breakfast, Busking In The Village, Concert | M: 0458 896 180 | E: Bungendorecountrymusicmuster@ outlook.com | W: bcmm.com.au 1 23rd Annual Stan Coster Australian Bush Ballad Awards | Bungendore Showground | Vic | Commences: 1pm | M: 0458 896 180 | E: Bungendorecountrymusicmuster@outlook.com | W: bcmm.com.au 8 Whittlesea CMF | Free community event | Vic | M: 0488 401 017 | info@whittleseacountrymusicfestival.com.au or leannewcmf@hotmail.com | W: whittleseacountrymusicfestival.com.au 12-16 8th Devil Country Muster presented by the Rotary Club of Smithton | Trawmanna, Smithton | Tas | W: devilcountrymuster.com.au 13-16 35th Boyup Brook CMF & WA CM Awards presented by LiveLighter | WA | T: 08 9765 1657 | E: countrymusicwa@westnet.com.au | w: countrymusicwa.com.au 14-16 Taranaki CMF | NZ | T: NZ 06 754 8383 | E: info@taranakifestival.co.nz 15-16 29th Lake Charlegrark CM Marathon | Vic | Contact: John Naylor | M: 0427 687 757 | E: president@lccmm.com.au 20- 23 Barham CM Stampede | NSW | Bookings: 03 5453 2159 | W: clubarham.com.au 28-Mar 1 25th Annual Cobargo Folk Festival | NSW | General Festival Enquiries E: info@cobargofolkfestival.com | W: cobargofolkfestival.com 28-Mar 2 31st Nannup Music Festival | Nannup | WA | E: info@nannupmusicfestival.org | W: nannupmusicfestival.org

MARCH 2020 1 (from Feb 28) 25th Annual Cobargo Folk Festival | NSW | General Festival Enquiries E: info@cobargofolkfestival.com | W: cobargofolkfestival.com 1-2 (from Feb 28) 31st Nannup Music Festival | Nannup | WA | E: info@nannupmusicfestival.org | W: nannupmusicfestival.org 1-3 Lockyer Valley CM Week | Laidley Show Grounds, Corner Cooper & Hayes St | Laidley | Qld | Various artists | Contact: 07 5465 1284 or M: 0435 929 383 | laidleyshow.com.au 8 Reg Lindsay Memorial Talent Quest | East Cessnock Bowling Club | Neath Street | Cessnock | NSW | Contact Ros Lindsay | E: info@reglindsay.com. au | M: 0412 967 863 20-22 CMC Rocks QLD | Willowbank Raceway, Ipswich | Qld | E: info@cmcrocks.com | W: cmcrocks.com 26-29 13th Horsham CMF | Horsham Soundshell | Vic | Contact: Lyall Wheaton | T: 03 5381 1995 | E: lyallwheaton@bigpond.com | W: horshamcountrymusic. com.au 29 33rd Annual Penrith Working Truck Show | 8am-4pm | Museum of Fire | 1 Museum Drive | Penrith | NSW | T: 02 4731 3000 | E: admin@ museumoffire.com.au W: pwts.com.au

APRIL 2020 2-5 9-13 16-19 17-19

The Man From Snowy River Bush Festival | Corryong | Vic | Contact: Festival coordinator Jennifer Boardman |T: 02 6076 1992 | E: admin@ bushfestival.com.au | W: bushfestival.com.au 31st Annual Byron Bay BluesFest | Tyagarah Tea Tree Farm | Byron Bay | NSW | Featuring Patti Smith, Brandi Carlile, John Prine and so many more | W: bluesfest.com.au Country Thunder Music Festival | Arizona | USA | W: countrythunder.com 9-5 Dolly Parton Festival | Narromine | NSW | Contact: Susie Rae

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