Keith Urban, the acclaimed Australian country music artist, has announced the launch of the Keith Urban Rising Star Scholarship, aimed at discovering and nurturing the next generation of country music talent. In collaboration with the Tamworth Country Music Festival, the scholarship offers a unique opportunity for an emerging artist to immerse themselves in the vibrant music scene of Nashville, known as the heart of country music.
The recipient of the scholarship will benefit from “unprecedented access” to Nashville’s musical landscape, which includes opportunities to perform, write, and network with industry professionals. Additionally, the winner will enjoy two days of recording time at Urban’s studio, The Sound, along with all expenses covered for flights and accommodation. Urban expressed his belief in the power of opportunity, stating, “Sometimes all a musician needs is an opportunity to be heard or someone to help nurture their talent.”
Urban’s connection to the Tamworth Country Music Festival runs deep. His career began at this festival, where he first performed as a busker and later gained recognition by winning the Star Maker competition at the age of 22. Over the years, he has achieved significant accolades, including 15 Golden Guitar Awards and the prestigious Roll of Renown, which honors his extraordinary contributions to the Australasian country music industry.
Australia’s country music scene continues to thrive, with a rich roster of talent that includes notable artists such as Kasey Chambers, Brad Cox, Troy Cassar-Daley, and the late Slim Dusty. According to data published by Luminate, Australia’s country music genre ranks third globally, following the United States and Canada. In the first half of 2023, Australians streamed country music a remarkable 1.1 billion times, based on the top 500 songs in the genre.
A recent report from Live Nation titled “Step Into Country” indicates that country music is attracting new audiences, particularly among Gen Z fans. This shift highlights the genre’s evolving landscape and its growing appeal across different demographics.
Applications for the Keith Urban Rising Star Scholarship will be accepted through an online platform at tcmf.com.au, which is set to launch in January 2026. This initiative not only reflects Urban’s commitment to supporting aspiring musicians but also reinforces the importance of mentorship and opportunity in the creative arts. With this scholarship, Urban aims to inspire the next wave of talent in a genre deeply rooted in storytelling and personal expression.
