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FRIDAY, AUGUST 31, 2012 Royal Telephone makes 2012 Sounds of Australia
The inclusion on the nation's Sounds of Australia register is in recognition of the fact that the song, written by Frederick Martin Lehman, was the first recording by an indigenous Australian to achieve mainstream chart success. It became a hit for Jimmy in 1963 and has become an all time Australian classic during the decades since then. Other additions to the register announced this week included AC/DC's It's A Long Way to the Top (If You Wanna Rock 'n' Roll) and A Track Winding Back by Barry Humphries and Dick Bentley including Along the Road to Gundagai. Weblink – www.nfsa.gov.au. Nanango Country Muster The Nanango (Qld) Country Muster – subtitled "Bush Ballad Spectacular" – will celebrate its 10th anniversary this year running over four days from Thursday to Sunday, September 6 to 9.
Bush poetry will also be a feature of the Muster with invited poets Ray Essery and Gary Fogarty to take the stage. Barry Williams will compere the event. The Muster program includes walk-up artists on the Thursday, bush poetry Thursday and Sunday, invited artists Friday and Saturday afternoon and evening both days and gospel music Sunday morning. "This is an event to mark on any calendar of a quality country music lover," organisers say. "It is four days full of country music, poetry, gospel and all those things that make our Australian bush lifestyle great. "Bring your caravan, tent, ute, bike or what ever you have and settle in for the celebrations of this traditional style of music. Full camping facilities are available from the Monday before the event (bookings essential) with plenty of hot showers and toilets... a real bush atmosphere." Further information and camp bookings can be obtained by ringing the Nanango Show Society Office on 07 4163 1273 or mobile 0429 631 273. The email address is nanangoshowsociety@bigpond.com Weblink – www.nanangoshowsociety.com/countrymusicmuster.htm. New clip from Dan Dan Murphy has released a video to accompany his new single, Hard Liquor & Outlaws, from his latest album, Livin' The Dream. "I co-wrote the song in Nashville for my new album," Dan said, and "with the help of Duncan Toombs producing the clip, I hope we've captured the theme of the song." "I'm also extremely humbled and honoured to receive a nomination for Independent Rising Male Artist for the Southern Stars Awards," the singer/songwriter said. The nomination was Grandpa's Song which is off the new album and is planned to be his next single release. THURSDAY, AUGUST 30, 2012 Jimmy announces "down under" dates Jimmy Buffet has announced he will perform two concerts in Australia next month.
Born in Mississippi and raised in Alabama, Jimmy's music is known for its humorous chronicles of a laid-back seafaring life, which is encapsulated in hits such as Margaritaville, Cheeseburger In Paradise, Come Monday and Changes In Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes. One of his most recent recording successes was his collaboration with Alan Jackson on the award-winning country hit It's Five O'Clock Somewhere. He has recorded more than 40 albums, most of which have gone gold, platinum or multi-platinum and his sold-out concert tours are an annual rite of summer for his legions of fans, affectionately known as Parrotheads, many of whom are professionals by day and who dress in spectacular and outrageous tropical outfits and headwear when Jimmy comes to town. Joining Jimmy on stage will be his long-time friend, label-mate, co-writer, sidekick and member of The Coral Reefer Band, Mac McAnally. Tickets for both shows go on sale next Wednesday (September 5). Weblink – www.margaritaville.com.
Desperate, a collaboration with rising star Aleyce Simmonds, is the title of the first single from Buddy Goode's latest album Unappropriate released this month through Goode Times Music and Universal Music Australia. On the album, the "redoubtable" Buddy explores "some exciting new themes, allowing us to go deeper into his life," according to a spokesman for the artist. Weblink – buddygoode.com. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 29, 2012 Karen is Australia's "daughter of bluegrass" Karen Lynne has been asked to contribute a song to the USA based Daughters Of Bluegrass project, an "all women bluegrass" album series.
"So the scene was set for a second album," Karen said. Put together and released by Blue Circle Records, the first album contained many, but not all songs from the pen of Tom T Hall and his songwriter wife Miss Dixie and their co-writers and when they took over the follow-up project in 2008 they decided that all of the tracks would be their songs and co-writes. The second album contained 17 of their songs and showcased the talents of no less than 41 women on vocals and instruments, including Kristin Scott Benson, Heather Berry, Dale Ann Bradley (again), Becky Buller, Sierra Hull, Sally Jones, Alecia Nugent, Beth Stevens and Rhonda Vincent. "Once again it was such a great project it had created a life of its own," says Karen, "and work began on the third project in 2011. This time though, the organisers decided to go further afield finding their 'daughters of bluegrass... all across the world." Karen chose a song called No Matter How Hard I Cry and put her vocal tracks down at Herm Kovac's Ramrod Studio. "The fun part was laying down my vocals to very rough instrumental 'bed' tracks only," Karen said, "so I won't get to hear the finished product until it’s all mixed... but with all those women involved, I'm not worried a bit!" No release date for the work has yet been announced. Chart Update – fourth week at number one for The McClymonts The McClymonts' are number one on the national Country Tracks Top 30 singles chart for the fourth successive week this week with their latest hit Piece Of Me.
Craig Morrison's Just Another Sundown edges up one place to number five, Paul Costa's Tractors & Bikes bounds up four places to six and America's Kenny Chesney is at seven with Come Over. Another overseas act, Eric Church, is at eight with Springsteen, O'Shea's Every Day Is A Good Day is at nine and Paul Cowderoy's Need To Need You is at 10. Bullet performers for the week include Adam Brand's There Will Be Love (16 to 12), Harmony James' Emmylou's Guitar (19 to 15), Roo Arcus' This Here Cowboy (25 to 21) and Tamara Stewart's Sisterhood (Of Feeling Good) (30 to 26). New entries to the chart this week are Chelsea Basham with Laugh It Off (in at 29) and The Bobkatz (pictured) with Underneath The Hat (at 30). The full chart can be viewed at – www.countrymusicradio.com.au. MONDAY, AUGUST 27, 2012 Huge crowd packs last Muster day Warm weather over the weekend meant a dusty Muster, but it didn't deter a huge crowd who packed in front of the main stage on Sunday evening, according to ABC Radio Wide Bay.
Kenny followed main stage performances during the four days of the Muster by stars including Kasey Chambers (pictured performing with Shane Nicholson), Beccy Cole, Adam Harvey, Lee Kernaghan, Canada's Corb Lund, Shannon Noll, Felicity Urquhart and John Williamson. Jeff Chandler, Artist Services & Marketing Manager at the Muster told the ABC crowd numbers had exceeded expectations by the first day this year. "Huge crowds, bigger than last year," he said. "We actually exceeded our sales projections last Monday so we are well ahead. "The crowds were just phenomenal; we had a huge Friday night, a bigger Saturday night, and I would say Sunday night was bigger again." Jeff said the success of the Muster meant the committee hoped to have funds available to donate to community organisations and that some of the feedback already filtering through was saying this year's Muster could have been the best yet. "The crowd just loved it. It's great for us to hear (people) saying it was the best Muster ever. I think we're on course now to build this event even further and take it to another level which I wouldn't have thought possible, but I'm feeling very confident about it. "(The Muster) is just an amazing experience; it's camping, it's friendships, it's having a good time. Music is part of it, but it's not the whole thing. Even if you're not a fan of country music, you come here for the experience. There's not many festivals like this in Australia, and certainly in the world. Weblink – www.muster.com.au.
Jessica-Jade Bruce from Melbourne has taken out this year's Maton Talent Search at the Gympie Muster. Reports indicate that Jessica won the prize pool valued at $22,000 from stiff competition including fellow grand finalists Kiara Rodrigues and Brent Officen.
Chelsea and Pete album releases
The pair took to the stage on the Muster Thursday for the launch. Chelsea's album, I Make My Own Sunshine, is released on the Compass Bros label via EMI while Pete's new work is Wishbone Road, independently released, distributed by WJO. Chelsea spent much of her childhood larking around with her two older brothers and working in her parent's Retravision store at Wongan Hills WA. The radio was never far away, she said, and she loved the sound of the new breed of Australian country artists... Adam Brand, Troy Cassar-Daley, Kasey Chambers, Beccy Cole, Lee Kernaghan, Melinda Schneider... and wanted to be like them. Yackandandah, Victoria, based Pete's new release is a bluegrass album, his first since his successful Picture In A Frame and the live album All You Can Eat. Adam up for Canadian award
And supporters are encouraging Aussies to support the singer/songwriter by voting for Adam on-line. Adam, whose music has entered Canadian charts, played to more than 40,000 people in Winnipeg last month and, as a result, he was nominated for the award, the only Australian so nominated. His competition for the international award are Indian singer Kiran Ahluwahlia, New Zealand reggae band NRG Rising and American country act Steele. The website to vote is http://aboriginalpeopleschoice.com/sign-up. FRIDAY, AUGUST 24, 2012 The Valley makes winning music Blue Mountains based music recording studio The Valley Studio is singing the praises of its international music clients as two New Zealand based recording artists who write songs, record and market their music at "The Valley" have had success in the New Zealand National Country Music Awards.
The Heartleys recorded their first CD at The Valley Studio in 2009 with Roger Corbett as principal co-writer of songs and music producer and quickly became "the darlings" of New Zealand's contemporary country music scene with fans and music industry alike. Australian audiences were then introduced to the duo when they performed at the Gympie Muster and the Tamworth Country Music Festival together with three consecutive top 10 hit songs on the Australian country music charts.
And the duo has announced the title track of the album has just been released. "This is an edgy original song that talks about the frustrations and emotions you feel when someone talks about you behind your back," the girls say. "The lyrics tell it all in this funky country rock song." Another Valley Studio music artist is newcomer Jody Direen who took out the Horizon, or new talent, Award in New Zealand on Saturday night. Jody's success is driven off the back of her debut Valley Studio production,‘Here We Go. Inbetween trips back and forth to Australia writing songs for her next release later this year, Jody will represent New Zealand in the Telstra Road to Discovery talent search in Australia. "Both The Heartleys and Jody travel from New Zealand to the studio in the Blue Mountains for several weeks at a time, co-writing songs with Roger Corbett and other country music writers, Tamara Stewart and Drew McAlister," said studio's Amanda O'Bryan. Both Roger and Amanda say: "It is a tremendous boost to our client's music careers to receive awards. For us, it's very satisfying after all the long hours and dedication to the projects. If feels like we are punching above our weight when it comes to making world class music products." Weblink – www.thevalleystudio.com.au – theheartleys.com – jodydireen.com. New single from Bob
It's the first single from his currently under development album The Rain Came Too Late. The new album will consist mainly of self penned compositions including the current single, the title track and Wishing well. The album is due for release later this year. Bob's career started a long time ago in England where, from his early teens to mid-40s, he performed with many of the top bands around the midlands touring the British Isles working from a solo to six piece band depending on location and promoter requirements. One of his very early bands was The Boothill Boys which comprised, in Bob's words, "a fine bunch of musos", was an ideal launching pad to build from although, he says, another unit, the High Plains Western Swing Band, was the band he enjoyed most. Weblink – www.bobovenden.com. Billy Hyde and Allans in receivership Iconic Australian music retailer Billy Hyde and Allans has been placed into receivership.
Billy Hyde and Allans owns 25 stores across Australia plus four franchise stores. It is Australia's largest retailer of musical instruments with a 25 percent market share. The company employees more than 500 people. Allans opened in the 1850s as a music warehouse on Melbourne's Collins Street, while Billy Hyde was a drum maker who opened his first store in Flemington in 1962. The two businesses merged in July 2010 and operate 25 stores across Australia employing about 500 staff. Their main earners are instruments, sheet music and live music kit and accessories. The receiver will now look for a way to restructure the business. It has been reported that with the company now in receivership gift vouchers would not be honoured and deposits would not be refunded but lay-bys would still be recognised. THURSDAY, AUGUST 23, 2012 NSW Premier joins Kempsey Shire to support Slim A Kempsey Shire Council public forum has formed the stage for an announcement of funding from NSW Premier Barry O'Farrell for the Slim Dusty Centre in Kempsey. Joy McKean addressed Council to thank supporters and update Councillors on the position and progress of the Slim Dusty Centre project, especially in light of a $100,000 donation made by Council in March this year.
"Their completion will enable public access to the Centre," Joy said, speaking from Slim's hometown. The Premier voiced his support for what is referred to as a major cultural tourism attraction. "I'm delighted," he said, "to support this important project that will honour the legendary musician and performer who contributed so much to Australian music and culture. Through his music and songwriting, Slim told distinctive Australian stories about life on the land and the country musicians of today owe much to his legacy." Premier O'Farrell's contribution from the Rural and Regional Miscellaneous Grant Fund will directly assist with roadwork leading to the new Slim Dusty Centre and matches the donation made from Kempsey Shire Council. With support already raised in the form of donated materials, silt fencing and GHD's donation of in kind Project Management of the works, the Slim Dusty Foundation is now more than halfway to meeting the full funding requirements to complete the access. Kathryn Yarnold, CEO of the Slim Dusty Foundation, spoke of the very positive reaction to the news of the State Government support: "The news was met with applause, nods of approval and smiles all around the Council Chambers," she said. "The roadwork remains our priority. We are currently investigating the timeframe and current cost estimates of the interface road works. The Foundation has submitted an Expression of Interest with an infrastructure program that, if successful, will provide the final funding and allow the Centre to open to the public. This will enable people to start using the Centre for events, travelling exhibitions, cafe, retail and hopefully, the Visitor Information Centre." Kempsey Mayor Councillor Liz Campbell reiterated the appreciation of Premier O'Farrell's support: "(We) congratulate the Slim Dusty Centre on receiving the support of the Premier and the State Government. This again indicates the confidence and belief in the Kempsey area and in particular the economic, employment and cultural importance the Slim Dusty Centre will bring to our region. "With the announcement of the grant funding from the State Government we move another step closer to completion." Joy concluded in her acknowledgement of supporters from right across the nation: "We are all very grateful for Mr O'Farrell's recognition of the value of this major iconic attraction being built in NSW. To all of Slim's other mates around Australia who continue to support us to get the Centre up and running, a big thank you to you all." Weblink – www.slimdustycentre.com.au. Lee's new album due for October release Lee Kernaghan last night announced to fans via his Facebook fan page that he will release his new album Beautiful Noise on October 19 through ABC Music/Universal Music Australia.
The 2008 Australian of the Year has album sales of more than two million, 10 Platinum or better releases, 28 Golden Guitar wins and three ARIA Awards to his name. Fans at this weekend's Gympie Music Muster will be able to pre-order a signed copy of Beautiful Noise and meet Lee from 2pm on Saturday August 25 at the CMC Dome. Such pre-orders will also receive a special DVD featuring two live performances of Lee's from the 2012 CMC Rocks The Hunter festival. Fans not at the event can pre-order a signed copy of the album via online retailers with the special DVD also included with the album once released. Lee is also looking for volunteers to sing on his new song Ute Me. "I will sing this song on the main stage Saturday night at the Gympie Muster and invite the audience to sing along to the chorus," he said. "We will be recording your voices live on the night for inclusion in the final mix that will happen next week... so if you can make it to the show Saturday night and want to be on the new record... sing it out loud!!!" Photo: a possible sneak-peak at the album cover although artwork is not yet final. Weblink – www.leekernaghan.com. TUESDAY, AUGUST 21, 2012 Luke leads Southern Stars finalists Luke O'Shea heads the list of finalists for the 2012 Southern Stars – the 15th Australian Independent Country Music Awards, presented by iiNet. Luke is up for Single of the Year, Album, Heritage and Male Vocal from his song and album The Drover's Wife.
The Davidson Brothers, Jetty Road and Mitchell Shadlow are also multiple finalists in this year's Awards with two finalist nominations each. Finalists for Album of the Year are Camille & Stuie with Big Days & Little Years, Carter & Carter with To The Moon And Back, Luke O'Shea with The Drover's Wife and Mitchell Shadlow with All In The Raising. For Single of the Year... Camille & Stuie with Beverley Joy, Carter & Carter with Dance In The Rain, Jetty Road with I'm A Dreamer and Luke O'Shea with The Drover's Wife. For Female Vocalist of the Year... Bec Hance with The Place Where I Belong, Natalie Howard with You Oughta Marry Me, Tracy Killeen with Good Lies and Chris E Thomas with Workin'. For Male Vocalist of the Year... Craig Morrison with Fences, Luke O'Shea with The Drover's Wife, Mitchell Shadlow with All In The Raising and Rob Wilson with We're Still Together In My Dreams. For Group/Duo... Camille & Stuie with Beverley Joy, Carter & Carter with Dance In The Rain, Davidson Brothers with My Heart Can't Believe My Eyes and Jetty Road with I'm A Dreamer. For Heritage Track of the Year... Davidson Brothers with Victoria, Luke O'Shea with The Drover's Wife, Dean Perrett with Heartbeat Of Australia, The Man Of The Land and Graham Rodger with Son Of The Red Dirt Country. For Rising Star Male... Paul Cowderoy with Need To Need You, Damian Howard with This Town, Benn Gunn with Rawsonville Road and Dan Murphy with Grandpa's Song. For Rising Star Female... Kaylee Bell with Strawberry Sunset, Kristy Cox with Little Bit Of Wonderful, Stephanie Jansen with Shoes and Christie Lamb with Mr Wrong. A ninth award, for Australian Independent Artist of the Year has no announced finalists and will be presented on the Awards night. "We received nominations from 66 individual artists and groups," said Awards Co-ordinator John Arnold. "In the eight judged categories there was a mix of well-established artists together with some outstanding emerging talent. "Many of the 22 finalists have already achieved significant chart success with radio singles over the past year" he said, "and many have also released very successful new recorded product, albums or EPs, in the last 12 months." The Awards are staged as the climax to the annual Mildura Country Music Festival which maintains a strong focus on independent artists. General Manager of Victoria for iiNet Andre Koot said: "iiNet is proud to continue its naming right sponsorship of this outstanding annual event which last year brought over 12,000 visitors to Mildura during the Festival period. "The Festival plays a major role in fostering Australian country music talent and on behalf of iiNet I would like to congratulate all the nominees for the 2012 Southern Stars awards." Tickets are now available for the Awards presentation and concert which will be staged on Saturday October 6 at the Mercy Theatre, St Joseph's College. To be co-hosted by Nicki Gillis and Mike Smith, guest artists on the show will be Emma Barlow, Kaylee Bell, Kalesti Butler, Allan Caswell, Camille, Bob Corbett, Rod Dowsett, Stephanie Jansen, Slim Newton, Luke O'Shea, Dean Perrett, Graham Rodger, Mitchell Shadlow and Chris E Thomas. The 2012 Mildura Festival will run from Friday September 28 to Sunday October 7 with more than 100 artists performing during the 10 days at 26 separate venues. A full list of 2012 artists, the Festival program and further information is now available on the Mildura Country Music Festival website at www.milduracountrymusic.com.au. Any information, including about Awards tickets, programs, accommodation or general enquiries, can be directed to the Mildura Visitor Information Centre on 1800 039 043 or on-line at www.milduraartscentre.com.au. Photo (from left): Luke, Camille & Stuie, Carter & Carter. Chart Update – The McClymonts' third week at number one The McClymonts' are at the top of the national Country Tracks Top 30 singles chart for the third straight week this week with their latest hit Piece Of Me.
McAlister Kemp's Cool Beer Hot Women is at five, Craig Morrison's Just Another Sundown is at six and O'Shea's Every Day Is A Good Day edges up one to seven. Paul Cowderoy's Need To Need You is up one to eight, America's Kenny Chesney is at nine with Come Over and Paul Costa jumps four places to enter the top 10 at 10 with Tractors & Bikes. Bullet performers for the week include Adam Brand's There Will Be Love (20 to 16), Harmony James' Emmylou's Guitar (24 to 19, Chris E Thomas' Stone Cold (25 to 22), Adi Burgess' That's What Love Will Getcha (26 to 23) and Roo Arcus' This Here Cowboy (29 to 25). The one new entry to the chart this week is Tamara Stewart's Sisterhood (Of Feeling Good) (in at 30). The full chart can be viewed at – www.countrymusicradio.com.au. MONDAY, AUGUST 20, 2012 Steve donates Slim collection Lake Macquarie (NSW) country music enthusiast Steve Pandel has donated a "massive collection" of music memorabilia to the Slim Dusty Centre in Slim's hometown of Kempsey. A removal truck, whose services were donated by Kingsley Mundey of International Art Services, arrived at the Centre carrying the collection that Steve helped unload so the task of cataloguing the thousands of items could begin.
Thousands of records, cassettes, CDs, magazines, press clippings, including "A Guitar And Hat Box Set" and other items make up the "treasure trove" that comprise just a portion of Steve's total collection, a spokesman for the Centre said. Slim's lifelong partner and Chair of the Slim Dusty Foundation, Joy McKean, spoke of the value to the Centre and future generations, of the Pandel collection. "Steve Pandel's donation of his huge collection will form the basis of the archives to be held at the Slim Dusty Centre for future research and reference," Joy said. "Researchers and writers and historians of country music will have access to a huge trove of information. "It is an invaluable resource for the Slim Dusty Centre, and Steve is to be congratulated upon his generosity and foresight in donating this archival treasure to us." Steve is a long-time friend of the Kirkpatrick (Dusty) family attending countless Slim performances and gaining access to some special collector items. He also has a close connection to the Slim Dusty Foundation and is a frequent visitor to events at the Centre. "Slim's music is all about stories of Australia," Steve said. "If you knew all the songs you would know everything on Australian history. Slim's diction was always perfect and one could hear the lyrics of each song clearly. "Slim, Joy and their family always gave me pleasure listening to their songs – they could always relate to the common man. My collecting started out as something to do, but it ended up filling in an enormous gap in my life that gave me great enjoyment. I did have a value on the collection in the early years, but as it grew I started counting in tons." Photo: Steve sits at his home in Lake Macquarie awaiting the truck to relocate the collection. Weblink – www.slimdustycentre.com.au. Chris Duffy tribute
"There will be a Chris Duffy tribute and CD launch gig at Caravan Music, Oakleigh RSL, 95-97 Drummond Street, Oakleigh," said a spokesman for the organisers. "Doors open around 2.30, the gig starts at 3 and runs until 6. Players will include Donal Baylor, Paul Wookey, John Kane, Coolgrass, Fat Chance and more." Chris's CD Banjo Time will be for sale on the day. For those not able to make the tribute but who would like a copy of the CD, it can be bought via the www.australianbluegrass.com online shop. SATURDAY, AUGUST 18, 2012 Muster set to go This year's Optus Gympie Music Muster kicks off this Thursday with the biggest line-up of country stars ever booked for the event.
Peter Coad & The Coad Sisters, Tracy Coster, Chad Morgan, Dean Perrett and Graham Rodger are among the latest names to be added to the bill for the four day event that runs through to and including next Sunday (August 26). A full listing of acts can be found on the Muster website (see link below). New this year at the side of the Main Stage will be the Spotlight Stage which will showcase a varied group of talented artists and special acoustic performances taking place in between the main-stage program. The Maton Talent Search will run again providing patrons with a showcase of some of the most promising new talent in Australian country music. Entrants compete in category heats from Thursday with the semi-final to be staged on Saturday with three semi-finalists competing on the Muster Main Stage for the prize package valued at more than $22,000. Weblink – www.muster.com.au.
Well known photographer and journalist John Elliott, who does a lot of his work in the country music industry, will conduct a number of photography workshops at the Gympie Muster this year. The workshops, which are free to attend, will be held in The Grove at the Muster on Friday (24th) from 1pm and Saturday from 10am. "Just turn up with your camera," John says, "and I'll give you some quick and simple tips on how to take better photographs." Weblink – www.elliottcountry.com. FRIDAY, AUGUST 17, 2012 Harmony wins in Queensland
The award was presented for her song Precious Little. Finalists in the category were 8 Ball Aitken with Cyclone Country, Brad Butcher with The Old Man's Gone and Sue Ray with Red Roses. Paul Cowderoy and The McMenamins were highly commended by judges. Song of the Year in the Awards went to up-and-comers Cub Scouts with Do You Hear and the band also took away the Pop Award. The Courier-Mail People's Choice Awards for Male, Female and Group went to Pete Murray, Kate Miller-Heidke and The Grates while DZ Deathrays picked up the Export Achievement Award for their success abroad. Ben Salter was awarded Album of the Year for The Cat and Ed Kuepper was recognised for his contributions to the industry with the Grant McLennan Lifetime Achievement Award. For a full list of winners, visit the website www.qmusic.com.au. And Penny wins in Melbourne Twenty-six-year-old Peny Bohan from Coburg in Melbourne is the first heat winner in the 2013 Telstra Road to Discovery competition.
Judges said Peny was a clear winner "with honest songwriting and a refreshing approach to her on-stage performance, demonstrating her potential as a real contender in this year's competition. "Peny commanded the stage armed with her trusty guitar and performed two self-penned tracks Wrapped Around Your Finger followed by Love Song." "I'm so excited, being on stage was amazing and I'm looking forward to the next stage of the program in November right here on my doorstep in Melbourne," Peny said. Peny will take part in "Boot Camp" – an intensive three day music mentoring workshop in Melbourne in November, covering all facets of the music business and will also perform in the Semi-Final event at the Queenscliff Music Festival in Victoria on November 24. Telstra Country Wide Area General Manager for Melbourne CBD & West Paul Harrison said Peny had a big opportunity in front of her in what was an exciting year for the program. "Peny is about to begin her journey on the road to gain connections with established musicians and develop her music career," he said, "a step in the right direction for any aspiring artist." Peny will compete against each heat winner from around the country and if successful at the Semi-Final, will receive $1000 cash and progress through to the Telstra Road to Discovery Final held during the 2013 Tamworth Country Music Festival in January. The ultimate performer and songwriter winners will each receive a 12-month music mentorship which includes a return trip to Nashville, a showcase gig at the at the Americana Festival, local gigs in Australia and New Zealand, face time with some of the biggest names in Australian music and a tailored music development fund. Local independent songwriters have until October 14 to take part in the program when entries close nationally in the songwriting category. Weblink – www.telstra.com/trtd. THURSDAY, AUGUST 16, 2012 Smoky and Dot to rest in Tamworth
The local Regional Council voted on Tuesday night to approve a request by the Smoky Dawson Memorial Committee on behalf of the Dawson family to inter or scatter the ashes on the city's lookout. Smoky died in 2008, aged 94, while Dot passed away two years later at the age of 104. In January this year, a statue of a seated Smoky, together with a tribute to Dot and his famous horse Flash, was unveiled in Peel Street in the heart of Tamworth's central business district. The ashes will be "laid to rest" in part of the lookout's recently beautified parkland. New from Jim Country funnyman Jim Haynes has "finally" (he says) released his new album, Galah Occasion, nationally. The first single from the album, Australia, was released to coincide with the Olympics and "show Jim's undying support for the Green and Gold".
Jim is probably best known for the hits Since Cheryl Went Feral and Don't Call Wagga Wagga Wagga. This latest release, through WJO, features comedy songs, Aussie ballads and two duets and is his first album of new songs since 2004. Western singer Wayne Horsburgh joins Jim for a unique duet on the album where Home Among The Gumtrees meets Don't Fence Me In – "a duet with a difference" – where each singer sings a different song and he teamed up with Melanie Dyer before she became "the girl who got away" on "The Voice" to record the comedy duet We Don't See Eye To Eye. Jim played the ukulele on the album and even "let rip" on the didgeridoo on Australia. Other songs include the singer/songwriter's typical observations of Aussie life like El Dubbo, Colonoscopy and Losin' It, a song about aging and domestic blindness. In Auntie Dorrie's Garage Sale, an old lady achieves fame and fortune instead of going to the nursing home and there are bush ballads like The Banjo and The Breaker, FlashJack/'Ard Tack and Joy McKean's Casey's Luck which also features on the Slim Dusty tribute album, Not So Dusty II. Weblink – www.jimhaynes.net. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 15, 2012 Toyota Star Maker winner to release album Bob Corbett – this year's Toyota Star Maker winner – will release his prize album during the upcoming Optus Gympie Music Muster.
Every Day Is A Festival is the title of the album that will be officially released at the Muster on Thursday August 23. And it will be Bob's second solo album from five career albums. Bob is also front man for his Roo Grass Band. Produced by Nash Chambers, the new release was recorded soon after Bob's return from a successful trip to America's country music capital, Nashville. Prior to his American trip, Bob had been in self-imposed exile, his own personal songwriting boot camp, in preparation for the new recording. "With everything I've written in the past couple of years, the songs have had their Roo Grass personalities, suited to the band members' individual talents," Bob said, "but this time I've approached it with a different philosophy. "It's about the things I believe in, a bit more of my history, if you like. I gave Nash 23 songs and the ones that made the cut were those that got to the truth of what I'd hoped to get out there. "Nash found the heart of the matter straight away. With him, it's pretty much no frills, down-the-line country. To truly represent the authentic Bob Corbett sound, his Roo Grass mates Sue Carson, Dave Carter and Rob Long played on each track while Nash enlisted a rhythm section that drummer Steve Fearnley and bassist Chris Haigh. Weblink – www.bobcorbett.com.au. Chart Update – The McClymonts still at number one The McClymonts' latest hit Piece Of Me remains at number one on this week's national Country Tracks Top 30 singles chart.
America's Josh Turner is at five with Time Is Love, Jetty Road's Sweet Goodbye is at six and Catherine Britt's Always Never Enough bounds into the top 10 at seven. O'Shea's Every Day Is A Good Day is at eight, Paul Cowderoy's Need To Need You is up one to nine and Amber Lawrence's The Man Across The Street is at 10. Bullet performers for the week include Paul Costa's Tractors & Bikes (18 to 14), Kristy Cox's Miles & Timezones (23 to 19), Adam Brand's There Will Be Love (24 to 20) and Harmony James' Emmylou's Guitar (29 to 24). New entries to the chart this week include Stephanie Jansen's Shoes (new at 28), Roo Arcus' This Here Cowboy (at 29) and Lyn Bowtell (pictured) with Beautiful Liar (at 30). The full chart can be viewed at – www.countrymusicradio.com.au. Adam remains atop the CMC 50 Adam Brand's latest hit There Will Be Love is still at number one this week on the CMC (Country Music Channel) Top 50 Countdown.
Bullet performers for the week include Baylou's Target On My Heart (19 to 15), Kasey Chambers & Shane Nicholson's Adam & Eve (new at 21), McAlister Kemp's Home (new at 23), Luke O'Shea's New England Sky (new at 33), Peter Denahy's Wind On The Mountain (new at 36) and Kaylens Rain's Outta Here (40 to 37). CMC's Country Pick for the week is Seleen McAlister's Guilt Free while additions to the Channel this week include Colin Buchanan's Song Of Australia and Stephanie Jansen's Shoes. Weblink – www.countrymusicchannel.com.au. MONDAY, AUGUST 13, 2012 New Zealand National Award winners
In front of a capacity crowd, Nelson musician Aly Cook received the award for Best Female Country Artist and Auckland's Trevor V Stevens was named winner of the Best Male award. The Best Group Award was taken out by Southland duo The Heartleys, Taylor Cairns and Kayla Martin Jody Direen from Wanaka was presented with the Horizon (or new talent) Award. Special guest performers at the Awards included Joy Adams, Jenny Blackadder, last year's Horizon Award winner Vickie Evans Shane and Tom Sharplin. Bernie Eva, President of the Kiwi Pro-Am Country Music Organisation, organisers of the Awards, said that feedback had been great on the quality of this year's show that had been hailed as "the best one yet". Weblink – www.kiwiproamcountrymusic.co.nz. Peter officially a legend Star New Zealand instrumentalist Peter Posa became an official legend on Saturday night when he was presented with the Legend Award during the National Country Music Awards.
Performing in America, Peter brushed shoulders with stars like Chet Atkins, Herb Ellis, Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra. Best known for his hit The White Rabbit, Peter, now 70, has just released a new "best of" album which currently sits at the top of the NZ music charts some five decades after his original multi-platinum selling debut album was released worldwide in 1963. Weblink – click here to watch Peter perform, including The White Rabbit. Brisbane Bigsound embraces country This years Bigsound Live festival in Brisbane has embraced country music for the first time, expanding its genre base to recognise the important role that country music plays in the industry.
Catherine Britt, Brad Butcher, Harmony James, The McMenamins (pictured) and Jasmine Rae will star in the CMC (Country Music Channel) sponsored Country Music Night at the Mustang Bar on Wednesday September 12. "Country music has always and will always make a massive contribution to the global music community," said Bigsound Executive Programmer Graham Ashton. "Bigsound is hopeful that 2012 is the first step of a long term relationship where we can grow the future involvement of all kinds of country music in the conference and festival." The conference section of the event includes speakers like US roots icon Steve Earle and a special panel discussion on the state of country music. An array of talent from folk and world artists through to indie rock and hardcore feature during Bigsound 2012, an initiative of peak industry body QMusic. Weblink – www.bigsound.org.au. FRIDAY, AUGUST 10, 2012 Dick champions Slim awards Nominations opened yesterday for the 2012 Slim Dusty Community Mateship and Youth Awards and this year the Awards are sponsored by well-known Australian entrepreneur Dick Smith.
Aussie icon Slim lived by the life values of fairness, mateship, family and community along with learning, a spokesman said, and the Foundation, together with Dick Smith, "are proud to celebrate these values" with the annual awards, developed "to recognise and acknowledge worthy people within the community who represent these values and make a positive contribution to society". Supporting the Mateship and Youth Awards is very important to him, Dick said. "These awards represent everything Slim Dusty stood for. The values of these awards are an important part of any community." Joy McKean, lifelong partner of Slim and Chair of the Slim Dusty Foundation, echoed the significance of the Awards. "The Slim Dusty Community Mateship and Youth Awards are an important part of our celebrations of Slim Dusty Country Music Memories Week," she said. "Recognition of someone in our community who is carrying on the great traditions of mateship, helping your neighbour and simply being a decent person, is a means of spreading the word about living the Australian way." Vince Coulthard of Port Augusta (SA) was last year's winner of the Mateship Award. He spoke of his surprise and honour in receiving the highly valued award which was presented at the Slim Dusty Country Music Memories Week held at the Kempsey Showgrounds. "Slim Dusty has influenced my life through his music and it was such an honour to receive an award that represents a man who I have idolised all my life," Vince said. "It was also amazing to stand on stage with Joy McKean and to meet the family. It was a very memorable event for me." Vince's proposer, Gayle Mather, urged people to get involved by nominating a member of the community that is worthy of either the Mateship or Youth Award. "It is an easy process," she said, "and I would recommend anyone to nominate someone they know for these prestigious awards. It was wonderful to attend the event and to see Vince receive the award. It is such a brilliant award and it really does epitomise Slim Dusty, the man that is Australia." Nominations can be accessed and submitted on line at www.slimdustycentre.com.au or proposers can ring the Slim Dusty Centre on (02) 6562 6533 or freecall 1800 18 SLIM to get a nomination form or further information. Nominations close on Friday, October 5, either on-line or can also be posted to the Slim Dusty Foundation, PO Box 70, Kempsey 2440, or emailed to kathryn.yarnold@slimdustycentre.com.au. Big T Jamboree this Sunday This Sunday evening (August 12), the second Big T Jamboree will broadcast to the world live via the Internet from Tamworth, Australia's Country Music Capital.
The Jamboree gets underway from 6pm with the live one-hour broadcast taking place from 6:30 to 7:30pm from Enrec Studios in Calala. Last month's inaugural show and broadcast was well supported by attendees and an initial viewership via the Internet. A limited number of seats are available at Enrec for anyone wanting to be in the audience. Anyone interested can call the studio on 02 6762 8072. For those not in the studio audience, the website to visit for the broadcast is www.bigtjamboree.com. Photo: one of the stars of the inaugural Big T Jamboree in August, Sally-Anne Whitten with backing by Alwyn Aurisch. Girl & Guitar Prior to Sunday night's Big T Jamboree, Enrec Studios will host another special web streaming event... a "house concert" under the banner Girl & Guitar tomorrow night (Saturday).
Each performer will do separate sets of their own songs and say they are looking forward to the "new concept of performing". It's the second show in a series of acoustic sessions featuring local and visiting songwriters. "No poker machines, televisions, just three girls, guitars, and story songs," said Sally-Anne. At last report, a limited number of seats in the "up close and personal" venue were still available at $20 each. Ticket enquiries can be directed to 02 6762 8072. For those not able to be in Tamworth for the concert, the Internet link is www.ustream.tv/channel/girl-guitar. New EP from Morgan Rising star Morgan Evans is gearing up to release a new EP – While We're Young – on Friday August 24, the follow up to his successful debut EP, Live Each Day, on the Warner Music Australia label.
While We're Young was recorded in Nashville, produced by expatriate Aussie Jedd Hughes, an acclaimed singer/songwriter and guitarist. All five tracks were written or co-written by Morgan. The title track is described as "an energetic, guitar driven anthem co-written with Jedd and Sarah Buxton, who co-wrote Keith Urban's hit Put You In A Song. Sarah's writing credits also include another Keith Urban hit, Stupid Boy, and Big & Rich's new single That's Why I Pray which has just cracked the top 20 in US charts. "I played Jedd and Sarah this chorus that I'd written a few months earlier and we all had a great vibe about it," Morgan said. "We all related to it, so the verses came really naturally. It's about letting go, living in the moment and making memories NOW that we can look back on with a smile, have a laugh and reminisce. You know? The kind of memories that make us who we are. "We got so excited about the songs, soon Jedd had pulled together some of my favourite musicians in the world and we were recording. Their talent and unique approach inspired me to work even harder to get the best out of my voice and my guitar playing. Working with those guys really was a dream come true," Morgan said. Morgan is performing to support America's Toni Childs from tonight in NSW and the ACT, has a couple of gigs lined up for the Gympie Muster followed by a run of dates in the Snowy Mountains, playing support to America's Joe Nichols in Tamworth next month followed by a set at the Deni Ute Muster. Weblink – morganevans.com.au. THURSDAY, AUGUST 9, 2012 New release from Colin Colin Buchanan – one of Australia's most prolific songwriters – has released a new album appropriately titled The Songwriter Sessions.
Over the years, he has won numerous APRA and ARIA awards and Golden Guitars for his songwriting, and especially his co-songwriting. But he is also a successful entertainer and multi-awarded writer in his own right. The unique "live-in-the-studio" duets album celebrates a remarkable two decades of songwriting collaboration and will be followed with a tour later this year. "This live-to-tape duets project has been a long time coming," Colin said. "Each song has a story and it was a pleasure to bring my friends into the studio for what became an amazing recording journey – all captured on video as the songs went down! "It was nuts – like Will The Circle Be Unbroken meets a late night lounge room jam." "Colin is an extraordinary artist," said Robert Rigby of Ambition Entertainment, Colin's new agency and record label. "His unique songwriting ability really hits a chord with all Australians. We are thrilled to have him join us and look forward to an exciting time ahead." With his unique singer/songwriter style and love-of-life attitude, Colin's first album with Ambition is described as "a celebration of his many years of songwriting". Duet partners and guests on The Songwriter Sessions include Troy, Diana Corcoran, Peter Denahy, Anne Kirkpatrick, Lee, Markus Meier, Dobe Newton, Sara Storer and John Williamson. "What started as a playful 'What if..?' with producer Garth Porter became an unprecedented collection of duets and re-interpretations captured as they went to tape," said Colin. "It is so special to be the common songwriting thread running between so many artists. "And to see the project come to life in partnership with the passionate Ambition Entertainment team feels really right to me." In typical Colin Buchanan fashion, The Songwriter Sessions celebrates life on the land, relationships, and what it means to be Australian. "From the anthemic Song Of Australia to the larrikin Farm Cars and everything in between, the album uniquely captures the writing process of one of Australia’s most successful music writers in any genre." Available digitally, on CD and DVD, both are scheduled for release next Friday, August 17. A preview video clip, Colin with Lee and Sara singing Song of Australia can be found here... youtu.be/zW_aaoGDNR4. Weblink – www.colinbuchanan.com.au. Aussie artists feature at Nashville's Americana Music Festival Kasey Chambers, Caitlin Harnett, Jordie Lane, Shane Nicholson and Felicity Urquhart have all been booked for official showcase performances at this year's Americana Music Festival in Nashville next month.
Australian participation in the festival has been organised for the third consecutive year by Sounds Australia, a government-supported music industry organisation dedicated to spreading the music of Australia abroad. Since 2010, Sounds Australia has maintained a strategic partnership with the Nashville-based Americana Music Association that promotes the exchange of American and Australian music between the two countries. "We've had many acts from Australia the last few years," said Americana Music Association Executive Director Jed Hillyand. "It's been really exciting. This year is extra special for us with Kasey Chambers and Shane Nicholson attending." "Nashville has always been a major destination for Aussie artists and writers," said Sounds Australia's Dobe Newton, "but the involvement in the Americana Festival has taken it to a whole new level. Our Sounds Australia touring party has grown from six in 2010 to this year's 25 artists. "While it's very exciting to present genuine stars like Kasey Chambers and Shane Nicholson at their first Americana Festival, perhaps my greatest thrill has been presenting new and unknown artists and seeing the great reception they've received from industry and fans alike." Additional Australian artists appearing at this year's festival are 8 Ball Aitken, Chris Altmann, Karl Broadie, Lachlan Bryan, Kristy Cox, John Flanagan & The Begin Agains, Lee Griffin, Damian Howard, Kelly Menhennett (Telstra Road to Discovery songwriting winner), Jen Mize, Lee Morgan, Chris Pickering, Melody Pool, Sue Ray, Andrew Redford (Telstra Road to Discovery performer winner), Lianna Rose, Ruby Boots, Shandell, Ben Wright Smith and Catherine Traicos. Further information about the Americana Music Festival, including registration costs, can be obtained through the official Americana Music Association website www.AmericanaMusic.org. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 8, 2012 Adam leads CMC Top 50 Adam Brand has taken over the number one position on this week's CMC (Country Music Channel) Top 50 Countdown with his latest hit There Will Be Love.
Bullet performers for the week include Jetty Road's Sweet Goodbye (15 to 12), John Williamson's Big Red (18 to 15), Baylou's Target On My Heart (new at 19), Chelsea Basham's Laugh It Off (new at 23), Shandell's Baby You Broke It (37 to 31), Mustered Courage's Madeline (39 to 35), Kaylens Rain's Outta Here (new at 40), Jess Holland's My Kinda Town (new at 41) and The Bostocks' Another Lifetime (new at 43). CMC's Country Pick for the week is Adam & Eve by Kasey Chambers & Shane Nicholson while additions to the Channel this week include McAlister Kemp's Home. Weblink – www.countrymusicchannel.com.au. Chart Update – The McClymonts at number one The McClymonts' Piece Of Me has taken over the top spot on this week's national Country Tracks Top 30 singles chart.
Lady Antebellum's Dancin' Away With My Heart is at five, Craig Morrison's Just Another Sundown is up two to six while America's Josh Turner is at seven with Time Is Love. America's Rascal Flatts at eight with Banjo, O'Shea's Every Day Is A Good Day enters the top 10 at nine as does Paul Cowderoy's Need To Need You at 10. Bullet performers for the week include Catherine Britt's Always Never Enough (16 to 12), Natalie Howard's You Oughta Marry Me (19 to 16), Paul Costa's Tractors & Bikes (22 to 18), Kristy Cox's Miles & Timezones (26 to 23), Adam Brand's There Will Be Love (28 to 24) and Chris E Thomas's Stone Cold (30 to 27). New entries to the chart this week include Adi Burgess's That's What Love Will Getcha (new at 28) and Harmony James' Emmylou's Guitar (at 29). The full chart can be viewed at – www.countrymusicradio.com.au. MONDAY, AUGUST 6, 2012 Troy makes fifth Opry appearance
The performance on America's legendary radio program was made on Saturday July 28. Troy, who has been in Nashville for the past two weeks for a series of songwriting sessions, sang two new songs for the appreciative audience. Bluegrass masters Ricky Skaggs and Rhonda Vincent and Opry favourite Connie Smith were also on the evening's program. Ricky hosted the segment featuring Troy. Pictured (from left): Ex-pat Australian and AristoMedia President/CEO Jeff Walker, Troy, Ricky and ex-pat Australian and Nashville industry identity Mark Moffatt. Beaut Ute 2012 Beaut Ute 2012 is a compilation release from ABC Country. The two CD set has 36 tracks with a mix of Australian and overseas artists. Local country acts featured are 8 Ball Aitken, Adam Brand, Catherine Britt, Travis Collins, Corey Colum, Bob Corbett & The Roo Grass Band, Luke Dickens, Shea Fisher, Steve Forde, Benn Gunn, Jetty Road, Lee Kernaghan, McAlister Kemp, Peter McWhirter, Craig Morrison, O'Shea, Jasmine Rae, The Sunny Cowgirls, Warren H. Williams and The Wolfe Brothers. FRIDAY, AUGUST 3, 2012 New from Roo Roo Arcus has released a new album – This Here Cowboy – his first since his debut album, Station Boy, 12 years ago in 2000.
"The break has been great," he said, "and has allowed me to return with a renewed passion and an album that I'm really proud to hang my hat on." Roo's new body of work features 12 tracks including five self-penned or co-written tracks and was produced by the award-winning Rod McCormack. Musicians assembled to create the new music include some of this country's finest – Tim Crouch (on fiddle and mandolin), Stuie French (electric guitar), Jeff McCormack (bass), Michel Rose (steel guitar), Bill Risby (piano) and Glenn Wilson (drums), plus Rod on guitars, papoose, Hammond, percussion and banjo. This Here Cowboy will be officially launched at the Goulburn Soldiers Club on Saturday night August 11 at 8pm. Hannah Smith and Georgia White of The Apprentices will be opening the show for Roo. When asked why there was so much time in between releases, Roo said: "Life happened. We had kids, and took over the running of the family farm in a time of severe drought. I never felt that I left music though. I was still writing and singing." The title track and first single's associated video clip was shot by Glenn Wilson on the property that Roo calls home. It can be seen here. This Here Cowboy is being serviced to radio today and will be available in-stores on Friday August 10. Weblink – www.rooarcus.com. Vale – Harry Frost Harry Frost, the artist who helped create Australia's famous Golden Guitar trophy, died yesterday aged 91.
"Based on the a commission he was given by then Awards organisers, 2TM, Harry sculpted the model from which over 300 individual Golden Guitar trophies have been cast in bronze over the past 40 years. "During this time the Golden Guitars have not only set the highest standards for those that strive to win them, but they have been acknowledged as one of the most unique, beautiful and admired trophies in any field of endeavour in this country," Max said. "In fact, surveys have shown that Tamworth's Golden Guitar has become one of the most recognised brand images in Australia. "Harry was an innovative and modest man whose abilities as a painter earned him wide respect. However his creation of the Golden Guitar design is a lasting memorial for which he will be remembered for many years to come." As well as a supporter of country music, Harry was also an engineer with the Tamworth based East West Airlines and used his engineering know-how to design and build fibreglass guitars "with a magnificent country music sound," according to Hadley Records' Eric Scott. Harry's funeral will be held at 1:30pm on Monday (August 6) at the Uniting Church, Warwick, Qld. Photo: Max Ellis with Roll Of Renown recipient Buddy Williams and Golden Guitar designer Harry Frost in Tamworth in January 1977. THURSDAY, AUGUST 2, 2012 Tamara's new album Award winning singer/songwriter Tamara Stewart has released her latest album, Apple Seed. Described as a collection of "fun, life and truth – from the number one hit Butterfly to the final track... Lion Heart – it is without a doubt the finest work Tamara has released thus far".
Most of the songs on Apple Seed are self-penned, but Tamara has teamed up with some "trusted friends" for a few of the songs including long time musical companion Rick Price who came on board as co-writer of Lion Heart which was written as a tribute to all those who have been affected by a journey with cancer, and more specifically breast cancer. "I'm proudly an ambassador for the National Breast Cancer Foundation (NBCF)," Tamara said, "and wanted to write something to honour what they are all about and also, to all the amazing people I've been lucky enough to meet through my work. "It's a song about friendship and strength – no-one better to write that sentiment with me than Rick, one of my dearest friends. Tamara invited fellow NBCF ambassadors the Australian Girls Choir to join her on the track and the results are described as both uplifting and emotional. "Another beautiful combination of voices is the catchy Women In Song," said the spokesman, "where Tamara invited good friends and fellow 'women in song' Sara Storer and Felicity Fuqua to join her on the track. Co-written with hit maker Colin Buchanan, the song is a tribute to one of Tamara's heroes Joy McKean. The song also honours Thel Carey and Shirley Toms. "Joy is always eager to encourage new talent," Tamara said, "and from the very first time I shook her hand early on in my career, she has continued to offer me encouragement – that is something that has always meant a lot to me... and also Joy won the very first Golden Guitar ever given, and many after that – what an icon." The new single released with the album – Sisterhood (Of Feeling Good) – is being added to radio all over the country. "Its contagious upbeat melody and 'good time' chorus is an anthem for women everywhere. The film clip for the song will hit CMC in coming weeks. "Ribbons And Stars is another beautiful piece of work written by Tamara to honour her Great Uncle Bill who fought in World War II. Every song on Apple Seed has a story and a reason to be heard. A reason to be celebrated – an album of songs about Australia, written and recorded by Australians... for Australians." Weblink – www.tamarastewart.com.au. Joe to perform "down under" American country music's Joe Nichols will make his fourth visit to Australia this September to perform at the Deni Ute Muster and two other special concerts.
The American Country Music Association award winner first came to Australia in 2009 when he performed at CMC Rocks the Snowys. His popularity has been grown on each subsequent visit and the singer enthuses about our nation... Australia is "what heaven's supposed to look like. Either that, or God's got a second home here". Joe will kick off his Australian trip with a performance at Sydney's Evan Theatre followed by Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Convention Centre on Friday the 28th, his debut performance in the city. The next day will be his first time performing at the Deni Ute Muster where he shares the bill with an impressive lineup that includes local stars like Daryl Braithwaite, Lee Kernaghan, The McClymonts and John Williamson with overseas stars Kelly Clarkson and The Living End. Special guest for the Sydney show will be Jasmine Rae while in Tamworth, Joe will be joined by Morgan Evans. Weblink – www.joenichols.com. WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 1, 2012 The McClymonts top CMC Top 50 The McClymonts have taken the top spot on this week's CMC (Country Music Channel) Top 50 Countdown with their latest hit Piece Of Me.
Catherine Britt is at five with Always Never Enough, O'Shea is at six with Everyday Is A Good Day while America's Eric Church is at seven with Springsteen. Another US act, Jana Kramer, is at eight with Why You Wanna, Travis Collins is at nine with Summer Love and Keith Urban's For You is at 10. Bullet performers for the week include Harmony James' Emmylou's Guitar (moving from 14 to 11), Lyn Bowtell's Beautiful Liar (29 to 26), Paul Costa's Tractors & Bikes (new at 30), Victoria McGee's Don't Leave The Leavin' (35 to 32), Benn Gunn's Rawsonville Road (39 to 34), Shandell's Baby You Broke It (49 to 37) and Mustered Courage's Madeline (new at 39). CMC's Country Pick for the week is Baylou's Target On My Heart while additions to the Channel this week include Chelsea Basham's Laugh It Off, The Bostocks' Another Lifetime, Pete Denahy's Wind On The Mountain, Kaylens Rain's Outta Here and Luke O'Shea's New England Sky. Weblink – www.countrymusicchannel.com.au. Chart Update – Jetty Road's third week at the top Jetty Road's latest hit Sweet Goodbye retains the top spot on this week's national Country Tracks Top 30 singles chart for the third week in succession.
The next three places remain unchanged from last week... Amber Lawrence at five with The Man Across The Street, America's Rascal Flatts at six with Banjo and Lady Antebellum's Dancin' Away With My Heart is at seven. Craig Morrison's Just Another Sundown jumps two places to number eight, America's Josh Turner and Zac Brown Band are at nine and 10, respectively, with Time Is Love and Keep Me In Mind. Bullet performers for the week include O'Shea's Every Day Is A Good Day (15 to 11), Paul Cowderoy's Need To Need You (16 to 12), Catherine Britt's Always Never Enough (20 to 16), Natalie Howard's You Oughta Marry Me (22 to 19), Paul Costa's Tractors & Bikes (26 to 22) and Kristy Cox's Miles & Timezones (29 to 26). New entries to the chart this week include Adam Brand's There Will Be Love (new at 28) and Chris E Thomas's Stone Cold (at 30). The full chart can be viewed at – www.countrymusicradio.com.au. Click here for recent news |
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The late Jimmy Little's classic recording of Royal Telephone has been named as one of this year's Sounds of Australia by the National Film & Sound Archive (NFSA).
Country Music Roll of Renown inductees Ted Egan and Anne Kirkpatrick (pictured) will be special guests with a star line-up including Jeff Brown, Kalesti Butler, Ernie Constance, Ashley Cook, Natalie Foley, Col Hardy, Sharon Heaslip, Glenn Jones, Brian Letton, Tom Maxwell, Dean Perrett, Pete Smith and Graham Rodger.
There will be two "solo-acoustic" shows, one in Brisbane and one in Melbourne, in Brisbane at the Mt Coot-tha Botanic Gardens on Friday September 21, and in Melbourne at the iconic Palais Theatre on Sunday September 23.
Aleyce collaborates with Buddy
The first album, called The Daughters Of Bluegrass – Back To The Well came out in 2006 and featured artists like Dale Ann Bradley, Michelle Nixon, Valerie Smith and Jeanette Williams and was described as a "first of its kind for woman in bluegrass' and picked up a gong in that year's International Bluegrass Music Association Awards.
Catherine Britt's Always Never Enough jumps two more places to number four to be snapping at The McClymonts heels while America's Josh Turner and Lady Antebellum are at two and three, respectively, with Time Is Love and Dancin' Away With My Heart.
The station's Ross Kay reported there was barely a free spot on "the hill" as thousands of attendees watched and listened to one of the main headline acts, international star Kenny Rogers.
Jessica wins at the Muster
Australia's own Adam James is in the running to win Canada's Best International Aboriginal Artist in the nation's People's Choice Awards.
As reported on Monday, The Heartleys, Kayla and Taylor, a duo from Gore on the South Island but now living in Australia, won Duo of the Year at the Awards for their latest album, Talk To Me.
Talk To Me was also recorded The Valley Studio. The album has also spent two weeks at number one on New Zealand's iTunes ahead of USA country music heavyweights Lady Antebellum and Kenny Rogers.
Singer/songwriter Bob Ovenden this week launched his single Lover Tonight to radio.
The parent company Australian Music Group Holdings announced yesterday that a creditor had successfully taken steps to have the company put into receivership and that the company would begin looking for a buyer for the sale of the business as an on-going concern.
This will be the first album of new material from Lee since the release of his multi-award winning Planet Country in 2009. 
Close behind in number of finalist placings are the duos Camille & Stuie and Carter & Carter with three each... in Album, Single and Group/Duo of the Year.
America's Lady Antebellum and Josh Turner are at two and three, respectively, with Dancin' Away With My Heart and Time Is Love while Catherine Britt's Always Never Enough jumps three places to number four.
A tribute to the late Chris Duffy will be staged in Oakleigh, Victoria, on Sunday September 23.
The latest round of artists announced includes a number of traditional acts joining the previously announced line-up headed by Kasey Chambers, Lee Kernaghan and John Williamson and international star Kenny Rogers.
Harmony James was named winner of the Country category at the Queensland Music Awards in Brisbane on Tuesday night.
The ashes of the late Smoky Dawson and wife Dot are to be laid to rest in Australia's Country Music Capital, Tamworth.
"I thought it was time for a new patriotic anthem," Jim said, "time to think about our unique Aussie character and remember some of our icons, pioneers and triumphs throughout history."
"We've already been blown away by the cyclonic first single from the new album," said a spokesman for Star Maker organisers Rural Press Events. "And now the big launch is almost here."
McAlister Kemp's Cool Beer Hot Women is also steady, at number two, while Lady Antebellum's Dancin' Away With My Heart is up to to three as is Craig Morrison's Just Another Sundown to four.
Local acts in the Countdown top 10 are Travis Collins at five with Summer Love, The McClymonts at seven with Piece Of Me, Catherine Britt with Always Never Enough at eight and Harmony James with Emmylou's Guitar at 10.
Multi award winner Dennis Marsh presented a moving tribute to Peter Posa who, during the 1960s and early 1970s, released 28 singles, 15 EPs and 23 albums.
Music labels, bookers, publishers and more from around the globe will converge on Brisbane's Fortitude Valley next month to hear about the future of the industry and to check out an "amazing night of the hottest up and coming live music in the country".
The special event will feature singer/songwriters Deanna Rose and Sally-Anne Whitten from Tamworth with guest Nia Robertson from Melbourne and will kick off at 7:30pm.
"Someday we'll look back and smile," Morgan says, "and tell the stories of the crazy things we've done, while we’re young." Hence the title of the new release.
Colin has been the go-to songwriter for many of Australia's leading country stars for a long time now. Stars like Adam Brand, Troy Cassar-Daley, Beccy Cole, Adam Harvey and Lee Kernaghan.
The five are among more than two dozen Australian roots music artists who will be in America's Music City for the 13th annual festival and conference
And the artist, who calls the NSW Southern Tablelands home, says he knows it's been a long time coming.
"Not only the writer and the artist, Tamara once again slips comfortably into the chair as producer of the album and the result is an 'all curtains down' and 'heart wide open' piece of work," according to a spokesman for the artist.
The two shows in addition to the Deni Muster appearance (on Saturday September 29) will be in Sydney on Wednesday the 26th and Tamworth on Friday the 28th.
The McClymonts' Piece Of Me jumps two to be in second place while McAlister Kemp's Cool Beer Hot Women is steady at three and Carrie Underwood's Good Girl is at four.