On a hot summer night set aside annually to honour the best artists in Australian country music, Bennett, Bowtell & Urquhart and Newcastle’s own Lyn Bowtell have walked away with gold at the Toyota Country Music Awards in Tamworth.
On Saturday night, Kevin Bennett, Lyn Bowtell, and Felicity Urquhart won two Golden Guitars for their debut self-titled album, winning Alt Country Album of the Year and Group or Duo of the year. Lyn Bowtell also picked up a Golden Guitar for her vocal collaboration on F U Cancer with Catherine Britt, Kasey Chambers, Josh Pyke, Wendy Matthews and Wes Carr, a song Bowtell co-wrote.
All celebrated artists in their own right, the trio came together two years ago in Tamworth. The union was prompted by a phone call from Bowtell. Working with Bennett and Urquhart was on Bowtell’s bucket list and the magic was obvious from the very first time they stepped on stage together.
Bennett, Bowtell & Urquhart
Once the decision was made to record an album together, their busy individual schedules only allowed two days to write and two days to record, and what a cracker of an album it turned out to be.
The album was nominated for 5 Golden Guitars. It is filled with beautiful harmonies and heart felt, thought provoking lyrics. Not surprising given that its creators are three of this countries most talented songwriters, it would be hard to miss the mark.
The Golden Guitar that Bowtell picked up for vocal collaboration brought her total for the night to three. This ties her with friend and Newcastle native Travis Collins for the most awards won on the evening. This years haul bringing Lyn’s total Golden Guitar wins to six.
Though there was ample reason to celebrate after the awards, being the hardest working woman in country music, rather than a big night out she chooses to celebrate by doing what she loves. Lyn took centre stage the next day at the Albert Hotel in Tamworth joined by her original band Southern Steel and some famous friends including Travis Collins, Catherine Britt, Brook McClymont and Aleyce Simmonds.
2017 is going to be a huge year for both Bennett, Bowtell & Urquhart and Lyn Bowtell. Keep an eye on Facebook for updates on new material and live shows.
You can catch Lyn Bowtell and Bennett, Bowtell & Urquhart at the following shows
Lyn Bowtell and Southern Steel
Lizotte’s Newcastle
17 February
Tickets are available from www.lizottes.com.au or 49562066
Bennett, Bowtell & Urquhart
Port Fairy Folk Festival (Victoria)
10 March
Bennett, Bowtell & Urquhart
Caboolture River Country Music Festival
28 and 29 April