Canterbury scholarship a boon for talented singer

Country singer-songwriter Christie Lamb was recently awarded a $10,000 Canterbury League Club-Sport Tourism & Youth Foundation scholarship in recognition of her exceptional singing gifts.

“I’m very grateful and honoured to be chosen to receive the support as it’s a huge help towards my new album due for release in 2016. I will use it very carefully and wisely to continue my career,” said Christie.

Each year the joint scholarship is awarded to an up-and-coming performer to help them build and develop their careers. Previous scholarship recipients include The Voice (2013) contestant and singer Nathan Allgood, athlete Lauchlan Renshaw, and wheelchair tennis player Ben Weeks.

Winner of Country Music Channel’s New Oz Artist of the Year 2015 and finalist at this year’s Golden Guitar Awards for New Talent of the Year, Christie said it was the story-telling aspect of the songs and the musical emotional journey as the reason for her deep love of country music.

Her musical career has already taken Christie around the world to Nashville, Texas where she presented her own showcase, and recently she was invited to tour with legendary Australia country singer Lee Kernaghan.

“Lee is a pretty big musical inspiration for me as he connects so well with his audience and puts on a fantastic show. Being on tour this year with him, playing in his band, opening his show and singing the female songs and duets with Lee from his ‘Spirit of The Anzac’ CD was such an honour!”

This talented young performer may have a lot on her plate in the upcoming year with her new album release however she still has time to keep it real and see the humour in every situation.

“One night in Western Australia the band told me I had to drive the tour bus back to the hotel. I had no idea where I was going and accidentally drove down a one way street. I had to try and turn the bus around but the wipers and indicators were on a different side to my car so they were going both off whilst I was panicking away. All I heard from the back [of the bus] was the loudest laughter ever! Now of course there are many blonde jokes about my driving!” said Christie.

“Canterbury has been a long-time supporter of this scholarship which is a fantastic initiative to help young and talented artists develop their careers. Not only do they have the opportunity to learn new skills but they also receive the chance to work with industry experts and forge new connections with other people who share their passion,” said Dr George Peponis OAM, Chairman of Canterbury League Club.