Keith Urban Rising Star Scholarship: A Gateway to Nashville for Australian Country Music Artists
A new opportunity has emerged for up-and-coming Australian country music artists as Keith Urban and the Tamworth Country Music Festival collaborate to introduce the Keith Urban Rising Star Scholarship. This scholarship aims to provide one Australian artist with a transformative experience in Nashville, offering access to the US country music industry. The recipient will have the chance to perform, write, and record music, meet industry professionals, and utilize Urban's Nashville studio, The Sound.
The announcement of the scholarship in August 2025 sparked enthusiasm within the Australian country music community. The scholarship is tailored for artists who have already gained traction locally and are poised to benefit from targeted industry support in the United States. It signifies a joint effort between Urban and the Tamworth Country Music Festival to assist Australian artists in transitioning from domestic success to global recognition.
Keith Urban has a history of supporting emerging talent, having mentored artists like Taylor Swift, Morgan Evans, Kelsea Ballerini, and Maren Morris. He believes in providing opportunities for musicians to be heard and nurtured, hoping to inspire others through initiatives like the Rising Star Scholarship. The Tamworth Country Music Festival's Executive Manager, Peter Ross, expressed pride in partnering with Urban on this initiative, aligning with the Festival's mission to offer meaningful platforms for artists at all stages of their careers.
The successful scholarship recipient will receive full support, including coverage for flights, accommodation, and related expenses. The application process will be overseen by the Tamworth Country Music Festival team, with Urban making the final selection. Urban's ties to Tamworth date back to his early busking days at the Festival, culminating in his induction into the Roll of Renown at the Golden Guitar Awards in January 2025, a testament to his journey from local performer to international star.
Applications for the Keith Urban Rising Star Scholarship will close on 19 February 2026. This initiative represents a unique opportunity for Australian country music artists to gain exposure and support in the competitive US music industry, thanks to the collaboration between Keith Urban and the Tamworth Country Music Festival.