Keith Urban Rising Star Scholarship: Ethan Calway's Journey to Nashville
Keith Urban has announced Ethan Calway as the first recipient of the Keith Urban Rising Star Scholarship, a collaboration with the Tamworth Country Music Festival aimed at propelling emerging Australian country artists onto the global stage. Calway, a talented musician from Warragul, Victoria, caught the attention of the program organizers with his exceptional guitar skills, distinctive vocal style, and genuine authenticity, which they believe give him significant international potential. His achievements include being a finalist in the 2023 Gympie NAB Talent Search, making the top 10 in the 2024 Toyota Star Maker competition, and appearing on The Voice Australia in 2025.
In a surprise Zoom call, Keith Urban personally informed Ethan Calway of his selection as the scholarship recipient. As the winner, Calway will receive a fully funded trip to Nashville, which includes opportunities to perform, write songs, meet industry professionals, and record music at Urban's renowned studio, The Sound. Keith Urban's own career began at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, and he has since garnered four Grammy Awards and 15 Golden Guitar Awards. The Rising Star Scholarship is his way of providing a similar pathway for the next generation of Australian country artists.
In conclusion, Ethan Calway's selection as the inaugural recipient of the Keith Urban Rising Star Scholarship marks a significant milestone in his career and highlights the program's commitment to nurturing and promoting emerging talent in the Australian country music scene. The opportunity to work closely with Keith Urban and gain exposure on an international platform in Nashville is a testament to Calway's talent and potential as a rising star in the music industry.