Keith Urban was honored at the Country Music Awards of Australia, officially being inducted into the prestigious Roll of Renown during a ceremony in Tamworth. The New Zealand-born, Australian-raised artist received the honor for his significant contribution to the Australian country music scene.
At 57, Urban’s journey began in Whangārei, New Zealand, before he moved to Australia at age two. His musical roots were established at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, where he initially performed as a busker and later won the festival’s Talent Quest, launching his career.
The Roll of Renown, established in 1976, is awarded to artists who have left an indelible mark on the genre. To induct Urban, fellow country star Kasey Chambers performed a heartfelt ballad, while emerging artist Denvah spoke of Urban’s influence on young musicians.
In his acceptance speech, Urban expressed deep gratitude for those who supported him early on. “All of us artists know that it takes the early believers seeing something in you,” he shared. He also reflected on his first visit to the Tamworth Country Music Festival at age nine, a pivotal moment in his career.
Urban joined the ranks of other iconic country musicians like Slim Dusty, Tex Morton, and John Williamson, whose names are also etched in the Roll of Renown. “To be in that family is mind-blowing,” Urban said.
The night also marked another achievement for Urban, who received his 15th Golden Guitar award. His album High took home the Top Selling Album of the Year honor. Urban revealed that before creating High, he had written and discarded an entire album.
Tamworth’s own Ashleigh Dallas also had a special connection to Urban, winning Traditional Country Album of the Year. Her mother, Lynette, was crowned Queen of Country in 1990, the same year Urban won the Star Maker competition.
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