Issue 130, December 2017
First published 1979
The Magazine of The Australian Songwriters Association Inc.
In This Edition:
On the Cover of the ASA: The Waifs at the 2017 National Songwriting Awards
Chairman’s Message
Editor’s Message
2017 APRA/ASA Songwriter of the Year & 2017 Rudy Brandsma Award Winner
Photos from the 2017 National Songwriting Awards
Category Top 10s in the 2017 Australian Songwriting Contest
2017 Rudy Brandsma Award Nominees
Behind the Scenes at the 2017 National Songwriting Awards
Wax Lyrical Roundup
Sponsors Profiles
Members News and Information
ASA Members CD Releases
Songwriter Profile: Andrea Robertson
More ASA Photos from The Vault
2017 ASA Regional Co-Ordinators Conference
2017 Australian Songwriters In Memoriam
Mark Cawley’s Monthly Songwriting Blog
The Load Out
Official Sponsors of the Australian Songwriting Contest
About Us:
o Aims of the ASA o History of the Association o Contact Us o Patron o Life Members o Directors o Regional Co-Ordinators o 2016 APRA/ASA Songwriter of the Year o 2016 Rudy Brandsma Award Winner o 2016 PPCA Live Performance Award Winner o Australian Songwriters Hall of Fame (2004 to 2017) o 2016 Australian Songwriting Contest Category Winners o Songwriters of the Year and Rudy Brandsma Award (1983 to 2017)
Chairman’s Message
Hey Everybody,
How good was the National Songwriting Awards 2017, held at Canterbury Hurlstone-Park RSL in Sydney on Wednesday 22 November?
This annual ‘Event’ keeps getting bigger and bigger every year, and was of course sold-out once again. This time however, we were at a much larger venue, so a lot more people could be accommodated. It meant a record-breaking crowd was in attendance, with some of the best Songwriters walking the red carpet, and on show in an auditorium designed for the presentation of live music. The result was breathtaking, and definitely the best night ever. That’s saying something, because there have been some wonderful Awards Nights in the past.
Personally, I was overwhelmed by the ‘show’ put on for the audience by our ‘Hall Of Fame’ recipients Josh Cunningham, Donna Simpson and Vikki Thorn (The Waifs). Their sheer talent as Songwriters, singers and musicians is mind-blowing, whilst their unassuming, straight forward natures, and the way they go about their craft had me (and the audience) in raptures.
I was particularly impressed by the fact that they sound-checked for over an hour to get the three songs they were going to play perfect, and it showed up big-time in their performance on the night. They were simply AWESOME!
Our newest Award for ‘Lifetime Achievement’ was also a big success, with the lovely Christine Anu being the inaugural choice for her work as a Songwriter in the music industry working with and for First Nation people. She has a superb voice, and as an added bonus, the honor was bestowed on her by friend and exquisite singer Casey Donovan.
Thanks to all who contributed to the most incredible ‘Awards’ ever, and also a fabulous 2017, including Vice Chairman and your Editor Alan Gilmour, Directors Clare Burgess and Gary Luck, all our fantastic Regional Coordinators, and all of the folk who make the ASA the great organization that it is.
To all our Sponsors, including Major Champions Wests Ashfield and APRA, a big debt of gratitude for all your help and support. It is much appreciated.
And so, one and all, have a Christmas to beat the band, and please peruse this missive prepared by your Editor Alan Gilmour over the silly season. See you in 2018.
Regards
Denny Burgess Chairman
Editor’s Message
Welcome to the December 2017 edition of The Australian Songwriter.
With the 2017 Australian Songwriting Contest and the 2017 National Songwriting Awards now in our rear vision mirrors, your ASA Directors are about to take a well- earned break, and re-charge our batteries for the upcoming 2018 ASA year.
I’d like to thank my fellow directors, Denny Burgess, Clare Burgess and Gary Luck for their wonderful contributions to the ASA during the year. Also, my thanks to ASA volunteer, Carole Beck, for her contributions to the ASA magazine, and for her suggestions and ideas during the year.
The Australian Songwriter welcomes written contributions from ASA members and friends. If you have anything that you would like to say about yourself, other songwriters/musicians/artists/new releases or upcoming events, simply send your contribution via email to the Editor at [email protected].
Alan Gilmour, Editor and Vice Chairman
2017 APRA/ASA Songwriter of the Year and 2017 Rudy Brandsma Award Winner
The 2017 APRA/ASA Songwriter of the Year is Steve Montgomery. Steve was also the winner of the 2017 Contemporary Pop/Dance Category, with his song, Santa I Can Explain, and the winner of the 2017 Lyrics Category with his song, Jack Keagan’s Pub.
Steve is a singer/songwriter from Sydney NSW. We’ll have an interview with Steve in an upcoming edition of the magazine.
The 2017 Rudy Brandsma Award winner is Samantha Mooney.
Samantha lives on the Gold Coast QLD, and we’ll have an interview with her in an upcoming edition of the magazine.
Samantha came 4th in the Open Category with her song, Free and Fearless, and 2nd in the Spiritual Category with her song, The Touch of your Wings.
Photos: Top: Steve Montgomery with Jessica McDonald from APRA/AMCOS and ASA Chairman, Denny Burgess. Bottom: Samantha Mooney with Adrian Ayre from Maton Guitars and ASA Vice-Chairman, Alan Gilmour.
2017 National Songwriting Awards Photos
Until the official photographs are available, we’ve appropriated a few photos of the 2017 National Songwriting Awards from social media. More to come.
2017 Category Winners in the Australian Songwriting Contest
Australia Category
Photo: 2017 Australia Category winner, Melvyn Moll
Title Songwriters State 1 Rain Melvyn Moll NSW 2 Windale Lloyd Back QLD 3 The Green And Gold Susie Davies-Splitter/Phil Splitter VIC 4 A Thousand Different Pictures Sharon Heaslip QLD 5 Smell Of Rain Chris Fisher NSW 6 Memoirs Of Vietnam Carmelo Cacciola QLD 7 Australian Dream Tony Stephens/Andy Court WA The Cattlemen Of The 8 Lighthorse Maria Harkins VIC 9 Every Man's Lament Eleanor Tucker TAS 10 Burrumbuttock Hay Runners Brendan Smoother NSW 10 Only A Boy Donna Dyson/Damien Leith QLD
Ballad Category
Photo: 2017 Ballad Category winner, Jason Greenwood.
Title Songwriters State 1 Broken Jason Greenwood VIC 2 Sigh Hannah May Bartle/Matt Boden TAS 3 The First And The Last Time Abbey Slattery VIC 4 Malala Tony King NSW 5 Dancin' With The Bottle Kristy James NSW 5 Superman Alex Tobin NSW 7 I Feel Connected Dexter Moore NSW 8 One Love, Many Names Brian Ward VIC 9 Coffee And Trains Frank Dixon VIC 10 Secret Love Vince Dale NSW 10 Slow Phil Riggio VIC
Contemporary Pop/Dance Category
Photos: 2017 Contemporary Pop/Dance Category winners, Steve Montgomery and Tyller Fischer.
Title Songwriters State 1 The Battle Inside (Fight) Tyller Fischer VIC 1 Santa, I Can Explain Steve Montgomery NSW 3 Fight From The Inside Andrew Bertola NSW 4 Reset Robert Bostock/Rachael Bostock QLD Paloma Rush-Drive (Rush Hour Catherine Duc/Paloma Ramos/Lars 5 Remix) Deutsch VIC 6 Real Eleanor Wilcher ACT 7 Utopia Donna Dyson/Tyrone Noonan QLD 8 Deep Down Anirban Banerjee ACT 9 Falling Back Frank Dixon VIC 10 The Moment Abbey Gardner NSW 10 Time Won't Let Me Go Greg Tomkins SA
Country Category
Photos: 2017 Country Category winners, Kristy James and Chris Murphy.
Title Songwriters State 1 Kid From The Country At Heart Chris Murphy WA 1 Take Me Down Kristy James NSW 3 Not Counting The Days Go By Scott Douglas/Emily Joy QLD 4 Road To Nowhere Anthony Quinsee QLD 5 Pay It Forward Emma Dykes/Drew McAlister NSW 6 I Wrote This One For You Becci Nethery QLD 7 Shine On Me Sophia Chesworth NSW 8 Slow Me Down Kylie Ryan NSW 9 Tell Me When John Williams NSW 10 Grandma Days Spencer Kelly WA
Folk/Acoustic Category
Photo: 2017 Folk/Acoustic Category winner, Abbey Slattery
Title Songwriters State 1 The First And The Last Time Abbey Slattery VIC 2 Something I Know Anirban Banerjee ACT 3 Legacy Miriam Lieberman NSW 4 Moving Breeze Dexter Moore NSW 5 Jericho Rose Catherine Dobson VIC 6 Beer And Wine Daniel Maguire ACT 7 Hooks Anna Wright VIC 8 Close Behind Dave Power QLD 9 Dad Joke Blues Hugh Brown QLD 10 Snowflake Katie Hardyman NSW
Instrumental Category
Photo: 2017 Instrumental Category winners, Calvin Welch, Robert Shannon, Veren Grigorov & Thomas Wade (Arabesk).
Title Songwriters State Calvin Welch/Robert Shannon/Veren 1 Waltz Ala Bra Grigorov/Thomas Wade NSW 2 Mess About John Delaney NSW 3 Lilly Pilly Rag Tom Anderson NSW Calvin Welch/Robert Shannon/Veren 4 Big Bamboo Grigorov/Thomas Wade NSW 5 Top Tapper Philip Gardner VIC 6 Ya Dig Jared Gibson VIC 7 L'automne Prelude Ray Tresider VIC 8 Rainbow Warrior Dexter Moore NSW 9 Reminisce Revelution Joel Baligod SA 10 Day Trip To Lamma Steve Montgomery NSW
International Category
Photo: 2017 International Category winner, Anirban Banerjee
Title Songwriters Country 1 Deep Down Anirban Banerjee AUS U So Mean Nothing 2 2 Me Debra Gussin/Ryan Martinez/Mike Westbrock USA 3 Little Things John Blok/Mike Lusk AUS 3 The Best That I Can't Do Rolf Schnyder/Ryan Martinez/Mike Westbrock CH 5 Nothing Town Michael McGee/Angel Pontier/Natalia Vercesi Kraft USA 6 Type One Civilisation Dexter Moore AUS 7 Just Down The Hall Lola Brinton/Kevin Bennett AUS 8 The Lie Michael McGee/Rolf Schnyder USA 9 My Stupidity Lola Brinton/Kerrie Garside AUS Nitanee Paris Lawson/Jean Pierre 10 Coal Dust Williams/Clarence Ellwood Lawson USA 10 Rolling Over Anirban Banerjee AUS
Lyrics Category
Photos (Left to Right): 2017 Lyrics Category winners, Steven Montgomery, Colin Roberts, Tim Montgomery, Tony Montgomery and Mike Montgomery.
Title Songwriters State Steve Montgomery/Tony Montgomery/Tim Montgomery/Joan Montgomery/Mike 1 Jack Keagan's Pub Montgomery/Colin Roberts NSW 2 Old Musos Cill Van Der Velden NSW 3 A Break In The Clouds Catherine Dobson VIC 4 Cayo Santa Maria Steve Montgomery NSW 5 The Ballad Of Black Caviar Carmelo Cacciola QLD 6 You're Not Puttin' Me In A Home Robert McIntosh NSW Steve Montgomery/Tony 7 Over There And Back (Billy's War) Montgomery NSW 8 Sitting On The Fence Lola Brinton/Lachlan Bryan NSW 9 Am I Dead Yet Jim Fahey QLD Ballad Of A Desperate Man (Action 10 Star) Adrian Strickland QLD 10 The Damaged Soldier Cill Van Der Velden NSW
Open Category
Photo: 2017 Open Category winner, Faye Trebilceaux
Title Songwriters State 1 Before Long Faye Trebilceaux QLD 2 Last Time Matt Allen/Josh Dyson WA 3 What You've Done Anirban BanerJee ACT 4 Free And Fearless Samantha Mooney QLD 5 Ride Ron Day/Ted Bazarnik USA 6 Let Me Introduce Myself Kristy James NSW 7 Just Keep Dancing Daniel Maguire ACT 8 Don't Say It (If You Don't Mean It) Renee Jonas NSW 9 Something I Know Anirban BanerJee ACT 10 Something's Changed Skii Harvey NSW
Rock/Indie Category
Photo: 2017 Rock/Indie Category winner, Tiffany Gow.
Title Songwriters State 1 Broken Tiffany Gow NSW 2 Resistor Stacie Richardson/Mark Annesley NSW 3 Rollin' My Blues Away Jacques Gentil VIC 4 Masterpiece Steve Wade/James Franklin VIC 5 Take Me Back Paula Punch NSW 6 How Many Times John Breen QLD 7 Runaway Georgia Knight QLD 8 Waiting Alex Tobin NSW 9 One Fine Boy Lucas Piekarski/The Jagged Edge VIC 10 Ring The Bell Hannah Bell TAS 10 Silhouette Tony King NSW
Songs For Children Category
Photo: 2017 Songs For Children Category winners, Stephen Keily and Roxanne Keily, with Busy Izzy.
Title Songwriters State 1 Busy Izzy Says Stephen Kiely/Roxanne Kiely NSW 2 Doodlebug Anna van Riel NZ 3 Moonlight Masquerade Olivia Corish/Andrea Corish NSW 4 The Platypus Plunge David Cronin SA A Lean, Mean, Seldom Seen, Dino-Munching 5 Submarine Michael Mills SA 6 How Many Homes Cath Russell VIC 7 Good Morning, Good Morning Michael Mills SA 8 Funkey Monkey Phil Splitter/Davies-Splitter VIC 9 The Sing-A-Long Song Stephen Kiely/Roxanne Kiely NSW 10 Everybody Stomp, Stomp, Stomp Michael Mills SA
Dez Staunton/Vanessa 10 I Love Reading Staunton QLD Spiritual Category
Photo: 2017 Spiritual Category winner, Jacques Gentil
Title Songwriters State 1 Free At Last Jacques Gentil VIC 2 The Touch Of Your Wings Samantha Mooney QLD 3 Till My Love Is Gone Jacques Gentil VIC 4 Tear This Heart Free Keri McInerney QLD That's How Heaven 5 Works Jacques Gentil/Lloyd Clarke VIC 6 O Lord Take Me There Sharon Heaslip QLD People Need To Know 7 (Acapella) Jacques Gentil VIC 8 Jesus Money David Baird VIC 9 Fetch Me My Comb Tony King NSW Andrew Cooper/Kylie Kain/Even Whetter/Erica 10 Maybe Graff/Mario Marino SA
Youth Category
Photo: 2017 Youth Category winner, Lucy Parle
Title Songwriters State 1 Always Lucy Parle NSW 2 Shine On Me Sofia Chesworth NSW 3 Murder In The Dark Taylor Pfeiffer SA 4 Troubled Victoria Kokkinos VIC 5 Tell Me Why Mi-kaisha Masella NSW 6 The Fall Ciara Muscat VIC 7 Lash Out Sam Campbell-McCrea NSW 8 Don't Say You're Sorry Zoe Tracas VIC 9 Alone Hannah Parrington NSW
10 I Won't Be Chihana Perera VIC
2017 Rudy Brandsma Award Nominees
The Rudy Brandsma Award is presented annually by the Board of Directors of the ASA in recognition of songwriting excellence by an ASA member, during each year’s songwriting contest. The award is presented in memory of ASA co-founder, the late Rudy Brandsma. 2017 marks the 34th annual presentation of the award. The award is sponsored by Maton Guitars.
Photos (Left): 2017 winner, Samantha Mooney and (Below, Top to Bottom, Left To Right): Ashleigh Stewart (VIC), Charlie Cacciola (QLD), Emanuele Mamo (VIC), Kylie Ryan (NSW), Lucy Pace (VIC), Matt Coleman (WA), Renee Jonas (NSW), Stewart Peters (NSW) and Tony Bogan (NSW).
Behind The Scenes at The 2017 National Songwriting Awards
Stage ready… Tables ready… Floor Hosts ready…
Auction Items ready… Memorabilia ready… Artists ready…
Trophies ready… Guests ready… More guests ready…
Emcee ready… Roger ready… Chairman ready…
LET’S GO!!!
The 2017 National Songwriting Awards was, without doubt, one of the best events on the 2017 Australian music calendar.
Many thanks to our tireless workers and volunteers who helped make the show such a great event: our sound and video staff, floor manager, floor staff, roadies, and
everyone else. Thanks also to Canterbury Hurlstone Park RSL Club for its generous support. Wax Lyrical Roundup:
ASA Regional QLD, 30 October 2017, Mary’s Commercial Hotel, Dalby QLD
ASA Adelaide, 8 November 2017, Mint 2, Glenelg SA
ASA Gold Coast QLD, 9 November 2017, The Dust Temple, Currumbin QLD
ASA Newcastle NSW, 13 November 2017, Carrington Bowling Club
ASA Central Coast NSW, 13 November 2017, Tall Timbers Hotel, Ourimbah
ASA Yarra Valley VIC, 16 November 2017, Cunninghams Hotel
ASA Sydney Christmas Wax Lyrical, 23 November 2017, Wests Ashfield Club
Sponsors Profiles:
1. Major Sponsor: Wests Ashfield Leagues Club
Thanks to major sponsor, the Wests Ashfield Club.
A premier entertainment and dining venue, and home of Wests Tigers and Wests Magpies Rugby League teams, Wests Ashfield is an excellent place to visit in Sydney’s inner west.
Not only supporting a host of local sporting and youth-related activities, the Club lifts itself above the rest by also being a “Patron of the Arts”, as demonstrated by its incredible ongoing sponsorship of the ASA.
All music lovers are encouraged to return the favour by becoming a member of Wests Ashfield, and at very least, indulging yourself by enjoying some of the culinary delights the Club has on offer.
Many thanks to the Wests Ashfield Club for its support of the ASA during 2017. The ASA would not be able to undertake its role of supporting emerging songwriters without the assistance of arts sponsors such as the Wests Ashfield Club.
We would recommend to our members that they should in turn become club members.
The Wests Ashfield Club also generously provided the venue for the 2017 ASA Sydney Christmas Wax Lyrical.
2. Major Sponsor: APRA AMCOS
Thanks also to major sponsor, APRA AMCOS, for sponsoring, and presenting, the APRA ASA Songwriter of the Year Award, at the 2017 National Songwriting Awards.
APRA AMCOS generously provides prize money of $3,000 to the winner, which this year, was Steve Montgomery.
If you write music, you should become a member of APRA AMCOS. It’s free to join, and once you do, APRA AMCOS can help you make money from your music. Become part of a collective community of 87,000 songwriters!
And in APRA AMCOS news:
APRA AMCOS Art Music Fund
Photo: 2016 Art Music Fund recipient Lisa Illean (photo by Catherine Pyle)
Australian and New Zealand art music composers have the chance to share in A$100,000 worth of funding to create new commissioned work thanks to the APRA AMCOS Art Music Fund, now in its third year of existence.
Applications are now open and will close 20 February 2018 at 5:00pm AEDT.
The funding pool of A$100,000 is available for the creation of commissioned work that is innovative, displays professional compositional craft and represents a benchmark of excellence in its field. The intention is to support composers to create works with a long artistic life.
Previous recipients have come from a range of art music backgrounds, from improvisational jazz to sound art to children's opera.
With works of this nature often taking multiple years to complete, it is exciting to have commissions now coming to life, including Lisa Illean's piece, Cantor, for voice and ensemble that was recently performed at Carriageworks; James Hullick's electro- acoustic, City-Topias, that will premiere at Melbourne Music Week; Eve Klein's
operatic, Vocal Womb, that will have its world premiere at MOFO at MONA 2018; and more.
"The Art Music Fund is important because it provides an avenue for contemporary art music to flourish," says 2017 recipient, Klein, who will incorporate amplified throat sounds into her vocal performance.
2016 recipient, Hullick, comments, "The Art Music Fund is a moment in Australian history where composers working outside the square finally get some kind acknowledgement of their incredible contribution to our diverse and technologized 21st century culture."
“It is greatly rewarding to see the Art Music Fund now in its third year and to have the work of previous recipients coming to fruition. APRA AMCOS is proud to support the innovative Australian and New Zealand composers of the art music sector and we look forward to seeing what comes next,” says APRA AMCOS Head of Member Services Dean Ormston.
Key dates:
Applications close: 20 February 2018, 5pm AEDT
Successful applicants notified: End of April 2018
Acquittal: Grants must be acquitted within five years
Please direct all application queries to:
Cameron Lam, APRA AMCOS Art Music Specialist: [email protected]
General queries to: 1800 642 634
3. Sponsor: Australian Institute of Music
The Australian Institute of Music (AIM) delivers innovative education for careers in the Australian music, entertainment & performing arts industries.
With a reputation as a leading independent education provider, AIM's music & performing arts courses in Sydney and Melbourne offer accredited tertiary music degrees through unique industry relevant programs.
AIM Sydney offers the most diverse range of music diplomas, music degrees, and graduate music studies available anywhere in Australia.
AIM Melbourne is fast establishing itself as an innovative music school in its own right, with a growing student population, hands-on courses in performance, production & management, industry staff and professionally equipped facilities.
Members News and Information
1. Songwriters Meeting Point
Perth WA lyricist, Patrick McMurray, is looking to pursue musical collaboration with like-minded composers. Patrick can be contacted at [email protected].
ASA member, Donna Hotz, is a lyricist who is seeking a composer to help create songs from her lyrics. If you can help, please contact Donna on [email protected].
Sydney songwriter, Bob Brown is looking for a co-writer. His musical likes are “ballads/ country/ country rock/ guitar instrumental, but I'm open to whatever project.” “I've been in the Top 30 of ASA but never cracked it further in.” Bob has sent us some recordings which we are happy to pass on to anyone who is interested. Bob can be contacted on [email protected].
ASA member, Tony Bogan is a lyricist, who is looking to team up with a musician/composer, to put music to his words.
Tony writes: “I have a collection of around 40 song lyrics I have written of varying ideas or themes (not boring love songs either) and I really want to team up with some good musos/composers ASAP.”
“Two, in particular, I would like to get written with a view to getting someone to sing one of them on a talent show - e.g. The Voice or Who's Got Talent in the UK given their global themes.” Tony can be contacted on 0488 443 155 and [email protected].
ASA Member, Liz Connolly, is a vocalist, lyricist and songwriter, looking for a Gold Coast or Northern NSW based songwriting partner who can help write/co-write guitar/piano accompaniments to her songs. Liz has a half a dozen songs in a variety of styles (pop, rock, folk, ballads), that she has completed or semi-completed using electronic songwriting tools. In 2014, her song "Don't be Afraid" was short listed for the ASA song writing competition Contemporary Pop/Dance Category but didn’t progress any further. Liz can be contacted at [email protected] or 0409345133.
Spencer Kelly writes “I've been writing songs for years but it's only in the past 6 years that I've been getting Stacy Hogan at Writers Paradise studio to produce them. Have been on the lookout for a great co-writer / lyricist as I tend to get a bit tired of my own lyrics - I've got a lot of great backing tracks/melodies I've written and demo'd (100+), but haven't developed further, so if you know of a good writer who might be interested, I can be contacted at [email protected].
ASA member, Beverley Tang, is seeking someone who is familiar with the music software program, Cubase Pro 9 by Steinberg, and can give her a few tips on using some of the features.
If you can assist Beverley, please contact me on [email protected], and I’ll pass your details on to Beverley.
Looking for somebody? Contact us on [email protected].
2. ASA Member, Katie Hardyman, wins the 2017 Hollywood Music in Media Award
ASA member, Katie Hardyman, has won the Hollywood Music in Media Award for her song, Snowflake. The Award ceremony took place in Hollywood on 16/11/17.
The song also placed in to Top 10 of the Folk/Acoustic Category in the 2017 Australian Songwriting Contest.
Katie is a very talented songwriter, and was previously awarded the Rudy Brandsma Award at the 2011 National Songwriting Awards.
Congratulations Katie.
3. Queensland Music Festival: Carol Lloyd Award
The Carol Lloyd Award will be presented to an emerging female- identifying singer- songwriter, who was either born in, or resides in, Queensland.
The successful applicant will be awarded $15,000, and with this, will have the opportunity to record their own full-length album or record and tour their own EP.
This award will give recipients a head-start in their career, the means to broaden their experience within the music industry, and help them to realise their goals as an emerging artist.
Applicants can submit up to three tracks of original music and supporting material. For full details, please download the Award Guidelines.
Queensland Music Festival and Queensland artists will oversee the judging of the Carol Lloyd Award for 2018 with support from Arts Queensland, APRA AMCOS and Hutchinson Builders. Award judges are Katie Noonan, Joc Curran, Leanne de Souza, Sean Sennett, John Willsteed and Annie Peterson.
Register your interest to keep up-to-date
Download 2018 Award Guidelines
Download Budget Template
View FAQS
APPLY NOW!
Entries close 5pm 9 March 2018
For enquiries and further information regarding the award please email Queensland Music Festival at [email protected].
4. Hugh Brown Workshop
ASA Regional Co-Ordinator for Brisbane QLD, Dr Hugh Brown, is re-launching a workshop that he created a few years back, that helps self-publishing Musos set up an independent career: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the- step-by-step-music-career-workshop-tickets- 39275192157. Starting in Brisbane this December, Hugh will then look to head to Sydney and Melbourne next year and then beyond ...
Hugh writes:
“The idea is pretty simple - as part of my PhD research I developed a structured approach for self-publishing musicians (“Indies”) to build a business and career for themselves. It’s hard work, but any musician or songwriter can use it to create a “portfolio career” and live their life in music. It’s based on the theory outlined in this book: http://huge.id.au/How_the_record.html.
To make it a lot less theoretical and a lot more practical, I created a one-day workshop called “The Step-by-Step Music Career”, which I have run to great responses in the USA, Brisbane, and Regional QLD. Unlike a lot of industry “workshops”, this is NOT a talkfest by “experts” - it’s a hands-on day of working through exercises that lead directly to the creation of a plan for self-defined success. A short version of the workbook is here: http://www.huge.id.au/Step-by- Step_Music.html.”
Hugh can be contacted at [email protected].
ASA Members CD Releases
Rick Hart: Let Me In.
Lucy Pace: Country Fever.
Andrea Robertson: Remind Myself.
Sally-Anne Whitten: It’s A Surprise. Pre-order now for January 2018 release. www.sallyannewhitten.com.
Garry Bagnell: A Finer Line.
Alex Tobin: Waiting.
Emma Dykes: Pay It Forward.
Lloyd Clarke: I’ll Sing You A Song.
Lloyd Back: Travelling With You.
Kate Lush: Let It Fly.
Stephen Keily & Roxanne Keily: Busy Izzy & Friends.
Taylor Pfeiffer: Take Her.
The Long & The Short Of It: Requested Favourites.
Kalesti Butler: Airborne.
Vanessa Delaine: Wild & Free.
Becci Nethery: Beautiful Life.
Skii Harvey: Standing For A Fall.
Releasing a CD? Let us know. [email protected].
ASA Member Profile: Andrea Robertson
Living in the idyllic coastal town of Ocean Grove, Victoria, has helped shape Andrea Robertson into the award-winning singer/songwriter that she is today. With music that’s as natural as it is soulful, her vocals fuse together blues, roots, folk and country with a dash of rock, all with a highly appealing and slightly vintage vibe. Much like the ebb and flow of the ocean, her music is varying, emotive and thoroughly engaging.
Releasing her debut album, "It’s About Time", in July 2014 (also available through CD Baby), Andrea worked with fellow industry greats, Chris Wilson and Sarah Carroll (also crowned as the ukulele Queen of the Bellarine), in shaping a highly celebrated CD. She has once again worked with Australian Blues Legend, Chris Wilson, for her second full-length album, released in November 2017. The record also welcomes collaborations with Tim Neal (Hammond organ and tenor saxophone) and Robert Calvert (alto saxophone).
Throughout her career, Andrea has performed to small and large crowds alike, garnering the prestigious recognition of her craft, with the highly coveted Ross Lipson Award, at the Queenscliff Music Festival in 2016. She returned to the festival this year as one of the dual recipients of the highly sought after Queenscliff Music Festival Emerging Artist Grant, also gaining her a spot in the 2017 line-up.
Her new album, Remind Myself, released on CD and Vinyl, as well as Digital Download, has been beautifully mixed and mastered by Australian Sound Engineer/Producer, Nick Huggins, to a standard that has been compared with the likes of Gillian Welch and Jack White. From the feel-good opening track "Never Let You Go", this album takes you on an emotive journey, including the everyday and the ordinary through to social justice issues that impact each one of us in some way.
But the closing track, "My Sweet Child", is a truly stunning number, stripped back to acoustic piano and soulful vocals, and recorded in her bathroom. It's a heartfelt dedication to her teenage daughter.
We caught up with Andrea for a chat.
ASA: Would you tell us a bit about your new album, Remind Myself: how it was conceived, the musical genres, the musicians, the recording process?
Andrea: Remind Myself has been a long time coming. I wrote the bulk of the songs just as I was finishing off my first album, It's About Time, which was released in July 2014. I think the influx of songs was most likely due to knowing I'd done all that I could (as far as the recording process went), and the files were all finally in the hands of the sound engineer to do the mix/master. This allowed me to tap back into the creative/songwriting headspace once again, finish off songs I'd started getting ideas for etc.
Labelling my music with a genre is something I struggle with (not an uncommon problem I know). My influences are many and varied, so my own musical style reflects this, and it's a fusion of blues/soul/folk/country/rock. But it's fairly raw, and organic. I'm not into a highly produced sound and I want my recorded music to sound as natural as possible. Real Music Vinyl & CDs (boutique record store in Geelong) has it listed the album, Remind Myself, as Folk/Alt. Country, which I think is a fairly apt description.
I have the privilege of being married to a wonderful drummer/percussionist, and I also have a very talented teenage son who is already going places with his music. Between the three of us, we did the majority of the instrument tracks on the recording, but I did have some amazing guest artists join me on a few songs, including Australian Blues Legend, Chris Wilson, on harmonica (Never Let You Go, What Do You Mean? and Again and Again).
Tim Neal, another brilliant muso, who lives just around the corner from me, joined me for One Of These Days, a song about social justice issues, playing his Hammond Organ and adding a Tenor Saxophone solo. And Robert Calvert, Alto Saxophonist for Melbourne Ska Orchestra (amongst other Ska bands) has jumped in on The Element of Surprise with a brilliant Sax line. Another lesser known but local blues artist, Tex Miller, plays slide guitar on What Do You Mean? and another very talented young person, Laetitia Harding rose to the occasion and recorded Violin for me on the song, Remind Myself, and it's truly stunning.
I did all of the vocals, including the backing vocals, and we have a studio set up at home, so it was all recorded there. The files were then delivered to sound engineer, Nick Huggins of A Pocket Full Of Stones studio in Point Lonsdale. Nick has done such an amazing job with the mix/master and I feel as though I couldn't have chosen a better person, a better fit, for me to work with on this album. I had a lot more input into the mixing process this time as well which I really enjoyed.
ASA: What were the main inspirations for the songs on the album?
Many of my songs are just inspired by the every day, and the ordinary, including my love of family and appreciate of life. The beautiful coastal area I live in, being Ocean Grove on the Bellarine Peninsula in Victoria, no doubt influences my songwriting as well. So, there are tracks that are clearly about the man in my life (my drummer/husband/soul-mate) and the relationship we have. We've known each other since we were about twelve years of age. The last track on the album is called My Sweet Child and was written for my daughter.
Our favourite Cafe is having a bit of a joke at my own expense about how poor I can sometimes be with time-management (I tend to think I can always do way more than can realistically be achieved in a time frame, and my husband's response to that!). One Of These Days explores social justice issues, Remind Myself is about pressing on under hardship or difficult circumstances, and The Element of Surprise is about the unexpected surprises that come along in our life journey.
ASA: How did the album launch go? What were the audience reactions to the songs?
Andrea: I really couldn't have asked for the album launch to go better. I played two shows, the first at a local iconic venue called The Piping Hot Chicken & Burger Grill, which sounds like a bit of an odd name, and it is the local Chook Shop, but they've been doing music there for years thanks to the previous owners, recognising the need to get the live music scene happening more in Ocean Grove.
The show was a sell-out, and we were knocking people back which was a shame but at the same time, a great position for me to be in. Chris Wilson, Robert Calvert, Tex
Miller and Laetitia Harding were all able to join me for the launch at the Chook Shop, performing on the songs they recorded with me which was a huge bonus, and I had a full backing band as well. The second show was held on the same weekend in Geelong at a very cool venue called Pistol Pete's Food N Blues, and again, to a full house. Both shows had appreciative audiences and I've been selling plenty of CDs as well as Vinyl, and getting wonderful feedback from listeners.
ASA: This is now your second album. How have you progressed musically since the first album?
Andrea: I can clearly see that I've grown as an artist, not just in my songwriting, but in my approach to the recording process and the orchestration of the songs. I'm really proud of my first album, it was a great debut album, and a reflection of where I was at as an artist at that stage of my life - it's captured a moment in time for me and I still love the songs and use them at gigs.
Obviously, I learnt a lot along the way so not only was I able to apply that knowledge to this new recording, but I was also more selective about who I listened to (well-meaning people love giving advice, but you have to sift through that advice carefully). I felt more confident and clear with my choices, and had greater involvement in the mixing process. Working with Nick Huggins (producer/engineer) was a fantastic experience and at this point in time, I can't imagine ever working with anyone else. He's already lined up to work with me on my new recording in 2018, which will be funded by grant monies I was recently awarded, thanks to the Queenscliff Music Festival's Emerging Artist Grant for 2017.
Receiving the news that I was the winner of this grant/award was a truly lovely surprise and a huge honour, knowing there were hundreds of applicants from all over the Barwon South-West Region of Victoria. I feel so thankful that I was chosen, and that I don't have to spend the next 2-3 years gigging and trying to raise funds to cover my next recording.
ASA: Looking forward, where are you hoping that your musical journey will take you?
Right now, I'm gearing up for my performances at the Queenscliff Music Festival which is only a week away. I've got some radio interviews lined up, and am fairly involved in this year's event, performing not just with my own band on both the Saturday and the Sunday, but also leading the local community choir "The Tides of Welcome" in their own performance on the Sunday morning, and also as they back Mama Kin & Spender at two of their performances over the weekend.
Aside from that, I'll continue gigging, and am also planning on getting out into some country towns, doing a small Regional Vic Tour over the summer period.
As mentioned before, I'll be also working towards another recording in 2018, so a lot of my time and energy will be put towards preparing for that.
I have a stack of new songs to choose from, and I do believe the hardest part of the song selection process will be choosing what to leave out. It's going to be a live recording, which we hope to do in around April or May next year (it will come around really quickly, I know!). Doing a live recording will also be very challenging, but I know it will only grow/stretch me as an artist, adding to my skill set along the way - and you need to continue to grow as an artist and get out of your comfort zone, so I am looking forward to this next project very much.
I'm also keen to try and get out into other areas of Australia, perhaps an East Coast tour will be on the cards at some stage, and I'll be trying to keep on top of applications for spots at festivals within Victoria as well as interstate. I'm keen to venture into some new territory and try and reach a new audience with my music.
More than anything, I just want to keep making music and sharing my love of music with others, whatever shape or form that may take.
ASA: So, where is your album available from?
Andrea: Remind Myself is an independent release, which is available on CD, and also on Vinyl, thanks to the "Vinyl Revival". It's also available as a Digital Download through CD Baby (iTunes etc), and It's About Time is available on CD and as a Digital Download.
Thanks for taking the time to chat with me, Alan. As an Independent Artist, it's really lovely to have your support, and I hope you and your audience enjoys hearing some of my new music.
Listeners can look me up on Facebook under Andrea Robertson Music, to see where I'll be playing, what I'm up to musically, or if they're keen to grab their own copy of Remind Myself or It's About Time. Please continue to Support Independent Music!
Editor’s Note: Andrea’s song, Never Let You Go, is on weekly rotation on The Australian Country Songwriters Show, on radio TodaysCountry94one. The show is available around Australia, via the station’s website, www.todayscountry94one.com. Happy listening, folks.
More ASA Photos from The Vault
Thanks again to ASA member, and former magazine editor, Noreen Kane, for this great collection of nostalgic ASA photos from the 1980s and 1990s.
When we published this 1990 photo (left) in last month’s magazine, we had no idea of the identity of the mysterious “winner from QLD” in white.
Rosanna Allen contacted us to say that the “winner from QLD” is her Dad, Don Allen.
Gene Fisk has also come forward to say that he is the person standing behind Don. Gene was a presenter and judge at the 1990 awards.
So, we now have the identities of the whole quartet. Left to right: Darryl Cotton, Rob Fairbairn, Gene Fisk and Don Allen.
Here are a few more photos from back in the day. If you know the identity of any of the unidentified people, please let us know. Top left is Keith Glass and Rob Fairbairn; Top Right is Greg Champion, Rosalyn Nicolau and Noreen Kane; and Bottom Centre is Unknown, Sandie Catlie and Unknown.
2017 ASA Regional Co-Ordinators Conference
Photo (Left to Right): Brian Henderson Ward (Former ASA President), Alan Gilmour (ASA Vice Chairman), Wendy J Ford (ASA Regional Co-Ordinator Northern Rivers NSW), Garry Bagnell (ASA Regional Co-Ordinator Gold Coast QLD), Melinda J Wells (ASA Regional Co-Ordinator Wide Bay Burnett QLD), Matt Sertori (ASA Regional Co-Ordinator Hobart TAS), Clare Burgess (ASA Director), Angelo Pash (ASA Regional Co-Ordinator Adelaide SA), Denny Burgess (ASA Chairman) and Gary Luck (ASA Director).
Absent: Ewan James (Northern Rivers NSW), Hugh Brown (Brisbane QLD), Julia Marr (Cairns & Tablelands QLD), Kerrie Garside (Sunshine Coast QLD), Lisa Sutton (Dalby QLD), Maria Harkins (Gippsland VIC), Mike Cardy (Perth WA), Paul Vella (Central Coast NSW), Sandy Bennett (Newcastle NSW) and Trevor Shard (Melbourne VIC).
Each year, following the National Songwriting Awards, the ASA Regional Co- Ordinator who are in Sydney at the time, meet with the ASA Directors to discuss matters relating to their regions.
It was great to catch up on 23 November 2017 with everyone from around Australia, and exchange views on the ASA representation in regional Australia.
If you are interested in becoming an ASA Regional Co-Ordinator in your region, contact ASA Director, Gary Luck, on [email protected].
2017 Australian Songwriters In Memoriam
Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu (22 January 1971 – 25 July 2017)
Geoffrey Gurrumul Yunupingu, also referred to since his death as Dr G Yunupingu, was an Indigenous Australian musician. A multi-instrumentalist, he played drums, keyboards, guitar (a right-hand-strung guitar played left-handed) and didgeridoo, but it was the clarity of his singing voice that attracted rave reviews.
He sang stories of his land both in Yolŋu languages such as Gälpu, Gumatj or Djambarrpuynu, and in English. Although his solo career brought him wider acclaim, he was also formerly a member of Yothu Yindi, and later Saltwater Band. He was the most commercially successful Aboriginal Australian musician at the time of his death.
His first solo album, Gurrumul, was released in 2008, debuting at No. 69 on the ARIA Charts and No. 1 on the independent chart. Gurrumul peaked at No. 3 on the ARIA Charts The album was certified triple platinum Yunupingu's friend Michael Hohnen produced the album and was his translator.
Critics have heaped praise on the singer, describing his voice as having "transcendental beauty". Elton John, Sting and Björk were among his fans. When asked what he would do with any money he made, he suggested it would go to his mother and aunts, following the Aboriginal tradition of sharing wealth. In 2008, Yunupingu was nominated for four ARIA Awards winning the awards for Best World Music Album and Best Independent Release He also won three Deadlys, winning for Artist of the Year, Album of the Year for Gurrumul and Single of the Year for "Gurrumul History (I Was Born Blind)".
Yunupingu died at Royal Darwin Hospital, Northern Territory, at about 5 p.m. on 25 July 2017, aged 46. He had suffered from liver and kidney diseases for many years. Upon his death he was described as an important figure in fostering racial harmony, and as a voice of indigenous Australians.
George Young (6 November 1946 – 22 October 2017)
George Redburn Young was an Australian musician, songwriter and record producer. Born in Scotland, he moved to Australia with his family as a teenager, and became a naturalised citizen.
He was a member of the 1960s Australian rock band The Easybeats, and with band mate, Harry Vanda, he was a co-writer of the international hits "Friday on My Mind" and "Love Is in the Air", the latter recorded by John Paul Young (no relation).
Young and Vanda were also the producers of some work by the Australian hard rock band AC/DC, formed by his younger brothers Malcolm and Angus Young.
Vanda & Young were inducted into the ARIA Hall of Fame in 1988, and the Easybeats were inducted in 2005. Vanda, Young and Stevie Wright were inducted into the Australian Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2004.
After the band dissolved in 1970, Vanda & Young concentrated on writing and producing pop and rock songs for other recording artists, and for themselves under various stage names, most notably Flash and the Pan. One such recording studio- based group was Marcus Hook Roll Band, with his brothers, Malcolm and Angus Young.
With Vanda and businessman Ted Albert, he formed Albert Productions in Sydney in 1973. He also helped his younger brothers with their AC/DC band project, that went on to become a massive success internationally.
Carol Lloyd (17 October 1948 – 13 February 2017)
Beloved Queensland musician, and the woman widely regarded as Australia's original 'rock chick', Carol Lloyd, passed away after more than two years battling terminal pulmonary fibrosis.
Lloyd was best-known as the frontwoman of seminal Brisbane rockers, Railroad Gin, featuring on their albums A Matter Of Time (1975) and Journey's End (1976), as well as leading the Carol Lloyd Band, with whom she released one album, 1976's Mother Was Asleep At The Time, and a solo artist, releasing her album Take It Or Leave It in 1981.
She was the first Australian artist of any gender to score a wordwide publishing contract with respected multinational EMI, and scored certified international success with Railroad Gin for their tracks A Matter Of Time, Do Ya Love Me and You Told The World.
In October last year, a new eponymous award was launched in her honour, providing a $15,000 prize to be bestowed upon an emerging female singer-songwriter from anywhere in Queensland, with the funds directed towards helping them record an original album, or to record an EP and embark on an accompanying tour. When unveiling the award, Queensland Music Festival artistic director, Katie Noonan, described Lloyd as "a legend, and a much-loved and highly respected member of the Queensland music industry family", and acknowledged that the veteran rocker had "paved the way for countless female musicians like me".
Sadly, Lloyd did not live to see the first recipient bestowed with the prize: entries for the inaugural Carol Lloyd Award are still open, until 31 March, with the winner set to be announced at the launch of this year's QMF event.
Malcolm Young (6 January 1953 – 18 November 2017)
Malcolm Mitchell Young was an Australian musician and songwriter, best known as a co-founder, rhythm guitarist, backing vocalist and songwriter for the hard rock band AC/DC. Except for a brief absence in 1988, he was with the band from its November 1973 beginning until retiring in 2014 for health reasons. Young and the other members of AC/DC were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2003.
Though his younger brother Angus is the more visible of the brothers, Malcolm was described as the driving force and the leader of the band. As the rhythm guitarist, he was responsible for the broad sweep of the band's sound, developing many of their guitar riffs and co-writing the band's material with Angus.
Malcolm Young took a leave of absence from AC/DC in April 2014, to receive treatment for dementia. During his absence he was replaced by his nephew Stevie Young, nephew Stevie Young bears a striking resemblance to his uncle so a lot of fans had not realized Malcolm had been replaced.
In September 2014, the band's management announced that he would be retiring permanently. In 2014, he stated that despite his retirement from the band, AC/DC was determined to continue making music with his blessing.
Sadly, Malcolm Young died on 18 November 2017 at the age of 64 just a matter of weeks after the Young family & the music world lost his talented older brother George.
Mark Cawley’s Monthly Songwriting Blog
I coach songwriters all over the world and one of the ways I like to see what they’re talking about is through joining songwriting groups on Facebook. If you haven’t already, I would recommend doing a search through Facebook and joining them all.
Some good insights, lively conversations and you may even connect with a co-writer. You’ll run into some of the same problems you find on any social media, occasional negativity and a term I just heard on Nashville sports radio this week… “keyboard courage”. All in all, still worth checking out.
Some of these conversations have given me good food for thought and there was a post this last week, asking “what are the advantages of being a songwriter”? I decided to change it slightly to “what are the best things about being a songwriter”?
So, here goes.
My Background
A little bit of background first. I didn’t choose to be a songwriter, it chose me! Started out in garage bands in upstate New York, finally record deals and touring and once other people started recording my songs there was no turning back. I’ve had hits, misses (lots of misses!) great times, hard times, got to travel the world and work with lots of my idols along the way. I’ve raised a family, lived in Boston, Indianapolis, Los Angeles, London and for the past 22 years, Nashville, Tennessee.
Songwriting was behind all of these moves.
So, my top 5 favorite things about being a songwriter:
1. Freedom. Freedom to express yourself, write what you sometimes can’t say, freedom to travel, freedom from 9-5. This is one you have to earn through hard work and determination, but you know that already. No one pays you in the beginning!
2. Relationships. Most every great friendship in my life has been a direct or indirect result of my pursuit of a songwriting career.
3. Travel. I’ve mentioned it a few times already but worth saying again. Music can open you up to the world. Co-writing with artists and other writers has taken me to places I never could have imagined growing up in Syracuse. I’ve written in castles in France, hotels in New York, studios in Los Angeles, music row in Nashville, Stockholm, and more far off places than I can remember.
4. The Buzz. I hope you’ve felt this from your own writing but for me, it never gets better than that moment you feel like you’re doing exactly what God put you on the earth to do. You don’t know how you got from that bit of inspiration to hearing something you’re a part of and if it gets out into the world from there and maybe inspires someone else …that’s perfection.
5. Character. I struggled to find a way to explain this but here are a few thoughts. Facing a blank page, trying to conjure up some magic, dealing with an enormous rejection, trying to stay afloat, stay current and relevant, keep friendships, marriages and a roof over your head while you try to focus and even keep your head on straight after some success and do it again and again, you better believe this will build some character over time.
Some Final Thoughts
If you’re focused on security, money or stardom you’re in for a rough ride. There will be more people telling you you're crazy, self-centered and maybe irresponsible in the beginning. People can be cruel and sometimes jealous along the way. Truth is you don’t need those people. There are plenty of like-minded souls to help you on your path, seek them out at every turn.
Lastly, songwriting doesn’t have to be life and death, doesn’t even have to be a career choice. If it makes you feel good, do it. If you want it to be your life, then treat it with respect and work at it every day. It will reward you beyond measure.
Mark Cawley Nashville, Tennessee Oct 26, 2017
The Load Out
The ASA would like to wish its members, its friends and their families, a safe and happy festive season.
We’ll be back in 2018, bigger and better than ever, with a great new Australian Songwriting Contest, a fabulous National Songwriting Awards and monthly Wax Lyrical open-mic nights throughout Australia.
Official Sponsors of the Australian Songwriting Contest
About Us
The Australian Songwriters Association Inc. is a national, not-for-profit, member organization, dedicated to the support of songwriters and their art, by providing avenues for encouragement and education of developing Australian songwriters, and recognition and promotion of our accomplished members.
Aims of the Association
To celebrate the art of songwriting;
To assist and encourage developing Australian songwriters;
To provide information and general advice to members;
To create performance opportunities for members;
To aid the professional development of members;
To enable members to meet and/or exchange ideas and information
To facilitate member transition into the established music industry;
To facilitate delivery of member services at a National, State and Regional level;
To salute our best songwriters at major industry events such as our National Songwriting Awards Night.
History of the ASA
The Association was founded in Melbourne VIC in August 1979 by the late Tom Louch (1932-2009) and the late Rudy Brandsma (1944-1983), who saw the need for an organisation that would bring Australian songwriters together.
Today, the Association has a vibrant membership Australia-wide and enjoys an established and respected role within the music industry.
The ASA’s membership is diverse and embraces and explores all genres of music.
Contact Us
Mail: Locked Bag 18/178 Newtown NSW 2042 Australia
Phone/Fax: (02) 9516 4960
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.asai.org.au
Facebook: www.facebook.com/asamusicians www.facebook.com/australiansongwritersassociation
Youtube: www.youtube.com/austsongwriters
Patron: Glenn A Baker
Life Members: Tom Louch, Rudy Brandsma, Russell Zimmer, Dominic Crea, Marie Murphy, Colleen Zulian, Alex Bialocki, Rob Fairbairn, Brian Henderson Ward and Kieran Roberts.
Directors:
Denny Burgess Chairman
Alan Gilmour Vice Chairman, Public Officer, Financial Officer, Online Content Manager and Editor of The Australian Songwriter Magazine
Clare Burgess Director and Secretary
Gary Luck Director and Manager of Regional Co-Ordinators
Regional Co-Ordinators
Angelo Pash Adelaide SA [email protected]
Ewan James Northern Rivers NSW [email protected]
Garry Bagnell Gold Coast QLD [email protected]
Hugh Brown Brisbane QLD [email protected]
Julia Marr Cairns & Tablelands QLD [email protected]
Kerrie Garside Sunshine Coast QLD [email protected]
Lisa Sutton Dalby QLD [email protected]
Maria Harkins Gippsland VIC [email protected]
Matt Sertori Hobart TAS [email protected]
Melinda J Wells Wide Bay Burnett QLD [email protected]
Mike Cardy Perth WA [email protected]
Paul Vella Central Coast NSW [email protected]
Sandy Bennett Newcastle NSW [email protected]
Trevor Shard Melbourne VIC [email protected]
Wendy J Barnes Yarra Valley VIC [email protected]
Wendy J Ford Northern Rivers NSW [email protected]
Webmaster:
Dean Mackin, F1 Internet Services, (0409 240 660)
2017 APRA/ASA Australian Songwriter of the Year
Steve Montgomery (NSW)
2017 Rudy Brandsma Award Winner
Samantha Mooney (QLD)
2017 PPCA Live Performance Award Winner
Kristy James (NSW)
Australian Songwriters Hall of Fame:
2017: Vikki Thorn, Donna Simpson & Josh Cunningham (The Waifs)
2016: Andrew Farris and Michael Hutchence (INXS)
2015: Johnny Young
2014: Kate Ceberano
2013: Garth Porter (Sherbet)
2012: Don Walker (Cold Chisel)
2011: Steve Kilbey (The Church)
2010: Richard Clapton
2009: Ross Wilson (Daddy Cool, Mondo Rock)
2008: Doc Neeson, John Brewster & Rick Brewster (The Angels)
2007: Brian Cadd
2006: Glenn Shorrock, Beeb Birtles & Graeham Goble (Little River Band)
2005: Russell Morris
2004: Harry Vanda, George Young & Stevie Wright (The Easybeats)
Lifetime Achievement Award
2017: Christine Anu, for her work as a Songwriter in the Music Industry for First Nations Peoples
2017 Australian Songwriting Contest Award Winners:
Melvyn Moll (NSW) (Australia Category)
Jason Greenwood (VIC) (Ballad Category)
Tyller Fischer (VIC) (Contemporary Pop/Dance Category - Joint)
Steve Montgomery (NSW) (Contemporary Pop/Dance Category - Joint)
Kristy James (NSW) (Country Category - Joint)
Chris Murphy (WA) (Country Category - Joint)
Abbey Slattery (VIC) (Folk/Acoustic Category)
Calvin Welch, Robert Shannon, Veren Grigorov & Thomas Wade (NSW) (Instrumental Category)
Anirban Banerjee (ACT) (International Category)
Steve, Tony, Tim, Joan & Mike Montgomery & Colin Roberts (NSW) (Lyrics Category)
Faye Trebilceaux (QLD) (Open Category)
Tiffany Gow (NSW) (Rock/Indie Category)
Stephen Keily & Roxanne Keily (NSW) (Songs For Children Category)
Jacques Gentil (VIC) (Spiritual Category)
Lucy Parle (NSW) (Youth Category)
Australian Songwriters Of The Year & Rudy Brandsma Award Winners
The title of Songwriter/ Song of the Year was first awarded in 1980, following the establishment of the ASA in late 1979. The Rudy Brandsma Award was first awarded in 1983, following the passing of ASA co-founder, Rudy Brandsma.
Songwriters Of The Year Rudy Brandsma Award Winners
2017 Steve Montgomery Samantha Mooney 2016 Donna Dyson & Damien Leith Alex Tobin 2015 Karen Guymer George Begbie 2014 Rick Hart Robert McIntosh 2013 Jacques Gentil Dani Karis 2012 Andrew Winton Melia & Nerida Naughton 2011 Brian Chapman Katie Hardyman 2010 Kate Rowe Karen Guymer 2009 Tony King Kate Lush 2008 Jason Campbell-Smith Jo-Kelly Stephenson 2007 Simon Shapiro Brenda-Lee Heathcote 2006 Emma Joleen Daniel Arvidson 2005 Michael Maher K’Crasher 2004 Trish Delaney-Brown Callee Mann 2003 Contest Not Held Contest Not Held 2002 Kyls Burtland Sara Downs 2001 Helen Mottee Keith Armitage 2000 Andrew Horabin Tomino Speciale 1999 Alf Tuohy Mike Kidd 1998 Kyls Burtland Not Known 1997 Xanthe Littlemore Michael Waugh 1996 Mark Crocker Felicity Hunt 1995 Rob Pippan Sharon Bothe 1994 Danny Hooper & Steve Cole Nigel Foote 1993 Not Known Billy Dettmer 1992 Not Known John Cooney 1991 Not Known Not Known 1990 Ian Paulin Jane Robertson 1989 Steve Wade Not Known 1988 Steve Wade Steve Wade 1987 Not Known Not Known 1986 Rob Stambulic Stu Storm 1985 Ross Nicholson & John Coco Steve Wade 1984 Not Known Debbie Bignell & Tony Stark 1983 Chris Lamech & Debbie Bignell Chris Lamech & Debbie Bignell 1982 Not Known N/a Commenced in 1983 1981 Not Known N/a Commenced in 1983 1980 Not Known N/a Commenced in 1983 1979 N/a Commenced in 1980 N/a Commenced in 1983
This publication is © 2017 by The Australian Songwriters Association Inc., ABN 12 140 838 710, and may not be re-used without permission. The views expressed in this magazine are the views of the writers, and may not necessarily reflect the views of the ASA. The ASA acknowledges and thanks all sources from which information for this magazine was obtained.