ERROL PARKER | Editor-at-large | Contact
US-born singer-songwriter Beyoncé Knowles-Carter is firming as favourite to win next year’s Toyota Star Maker with the release of her first country album, ‘Act II’, next month.
Ahead of the album launch, the Texan dropped a single this week, ‘Texas Hold ‘Em’, that has shot to the Number 1 spot in charts around the country music-enjoying world.
Ms Knowles-Carter has caught the attention of the Tamworth Country Music Festival and the stalwarts of our local scene, leaving many to speculate that the American might already have the Toyota Star Maker Award for next year in the bag already.
Just over a month ago, Winton’s own Wade Forster took out arguably the most prestigious prize in Australian music. The Toyota Star Maker helps emerging country music artists tap in to the American scene in Nashville, as well as giving them a Hilux to cut hoops in when they feel.
Speaking to The Advocate today, Star Maker judge Terrance Coal said he was very impressed by what he’s heard so far.
“This Beyoncé Knowles-Carter is a great singer,” he said.
“I’m aware she has done a few other projects before but I’m lead to believe this is the first album? It’s a great single that she’s released this week. Am I right in saying it’s gone to Number 1 here? Incredible. I can’t remember the last time a country singer has topped the charts here in this country.”
Our reporter suggested Taylor Swift.
“We don’t talk about here anymore. Anyway, I think this Beyoncé has a bright future. She could easily win the Toyota Star Maker next year if she keeps it up,” he said.
“There’s been a lot of great talent come out of Texas. James Blundell, Travis Burns. The list goes on.”
More to come.
