Wiradjuri Country/Wagga Wagga-based country artist Nathan Lamont has taken out this year’s CMAA Sister Cities Nashville Scholarship. The prize will see Nathan jetting off to the United States this September to represent the nation at Americanafest. While he’s in Nashville, Nathan will connect with leading songwriters, producers, and other industry figures.
“It means so much to me,” he said. “I feel a sense of obligation and responsibility to really give it everything — not just for myself, but to show what’s possible for others. I’m incredibly humbled. I don’t take it lightly. I realise just how massive and amazing this is. I’ve only been to Nashville once before – just one night on a holiday with my wife – and tried to soak up everything I could. Now I get to go back and actually do what I’ve always dreamed of doing.”
A proud Wurudjeri man, Nathan also added “I’m privileged to be the first black fella to go over as part of this scholarship. If I can inspire a young emerging First Nations artist to follow my journey, that would be the best thing to come out of this.”
Nathan’s plans for songwriting, attending workshops, and building on his existing connections with Aussie expats will no doubt help him edge closer towards completing his debut album.
“I’ve released single after single, but ticking off that album box is going to be a lifelong achievement for me. The money I was saving for this trip can now go into recording.”
I’m wishing Nathan all the best for his upcoming trip. Aussies still have a few more opportunities to see him perform before he leaves. He’ll also play Heartbeat of the Hunter on his return. Catch Nathan Lamont at the following shows:
16 May 2025 – Kickin’ Country @ Panthers, Mooroo Murak/Penrith
17 May 2025 – Country Music Raceday @ Kembla Grange Races, Dharawal Country/Kembla
28-31 August 2025 – Gympie Music Muster, Gimpi-Gimpi/Gympie
27 September 2025 – Heartbeat of the Hunter @ Tocal Agricultural College, Yimmang/Paterson
Image used with permission from CMAA Academy of Country Music