The 44th Country Music Association of Australia Awards nominees were announced yesterday with Catherine Britt featuring prominently. The ceremony took place at the iconic Sydney Opera House and featured an all-star line-up of Australian talent but no star shone brighter than the Newcastle singer-songwriter who earned nominations in 6 categories including the prestigious Album of the Year for her critically acclaimed release ‘Boneshaker’
In addition to Album of the Year, Catherine is nominated for Female Artist of The Year, Single of The Year (‘Boneshaker’), Video of The Year (along with directors Tribal Apes), APRA AMCOS Song Of The Year and Vocal Collaboration Of The Year for ‘You and Me Against The World’, a duet with legendary songsmith Steve Earle.
“I didn’t expect much going into the Golden Guitar nominations event having had such a tough year and not being able to give this album all of the attention it deserved,” says Catherine. “‘Boneshaker’ could have easily flown under the radar but today really was a wonderful surprise. I was just so taken aback by the support and love from my peers and my wonderful industry that I am so proud to be a part of. Thank you Golden Guitars and thank you to all who voted for my album ‘Boneshaker’, I’m humbled and excited for 2016.”
The CMAA announcement comes 6 weeks after ‘Boneshaker’ was revealed as a contender for Best Country Album at this year’s ARIA Awards. This is the sixth time Catherine has received a nomination in this category and the first time in ARIA history an artist has received a Best Country Album nomination for each of their first 6 album releases.
Released May 1 on Lost Highway (Universal Music) ‘Boneshaker’ is Catherine’s debut release for the prestigious label and continues to receive praise from fans and media alike. Chris Familton (The Music) stated it “stands head and shoulders above much of the soulless country music purporting to represent the genre” while Rhythms proclaimed: “Wow! The title track to Catherine Britt’s new album erupts like a massive Pat Benatar anthem, with layers of production never previously encountered on any of Britt’s releases. It’s gigantic.”
As reported in the media, 2015 has been a tough year for Catherine: weeks after releasing her album ‘Boneshaker’ she was diagnosed with breast cancer. Promotional activities for the album may have been curtailed due to her ongoing treatment but Catherine’s desire to share publicly share her journey has served as an inspiration to many. She continues to win fans on and off stage for her amazing musical talents, perseverance and irrefutable bravery.
Described by media as “one of the most compelling, and interesting, artists at work in Australian music, let alone within country music” Catherine Britt has worked with the likes of Kasey Chambers, Paul Kelly, Tim Rogers, Sir Elton John, Don McLean, Chris Isaak, Brooks & Dunn, Alan Jackson, Guy Clark and Keith Urban to name but a few.