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 Calway of his selection as the scholarship recipient. As the winner, Calway will receive a fully funded trip to Nashville, where he will have the opportunity to perform, collaborate on songwriting, meet industry professionals, and record music at Urban's renowned studio, The Sound. Urban's own career began at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, and with this scholarship, he aims to provide a similar pathway for the next generation of Australian country artists.
The Keith Urban Rising Star Scholarship represents a unique opportunity for Ethan Calway to further his music career and gain valuable experience in the industry. With Urban's support and mentorship, Calway is poised to make a significant impact on the global country music scene.