Country Music Honours Songwriting Awards
With prize money totaling $3.000, entries from all over New Zealand and Australia are received for the annual M.L.T.
Songwriting Awards, which are open to all songwriters. Music and Lyrics of all entries must be deemed original by the judges and all songs must not be commercially released prior to judging. Songs are judged by a panel of four, 10 finalists are selected, and although having been judged prior to the event, these songs are performed live at the M.L.T. Songwriting Awards evening, at which the Winners
are announced. The writers have the option of performing the song themselves or having it performed for them. Songwriting Seminar
The aim of the Mataura Licensing Trust Songwriting Seminar is to give songwriters access to information about songwriting and the encouragement to hone their skills. Experienced New Zealand Songwriters will share their knowledge of the craft of songwriting. Their presentations may include performances and practical songwriting ideas. Songwriting Industry representatives will explore such issues as: copyright of new material, royalties, the recording industry and opportunities for getting new material heard.
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The beautiful MEL PARSONS after winning the MLT Songwriting award last night ⭐️
Country music fans will be celebrating tonight with the Country Music Honours taking place tonight. As an added treat for country music fans, the original queen of country in Aotearoa, Suzanne Prentice is performing.
APRA AMCOS NZ Best Country Song Winner // HOLLY ARROWSMITH
‘Desert Dove’ is Arrowsmith’s second Best Country Song Award winning song, following her win in 2019 for ‘Slow Train Creek’. The song showcases her trademark sweet and true voice, with the classic, catchy alt-country ballad inspired by her grandfather.
🍾MLT Songwriting Award Winner 🍾
MEL PARSONS for her song 'Hardest Thing'
Congratulations to the winner of the MLT Songwriting award - Mel Parsons!
Mel describes her song as a "simple straight up and down love song."
MLT Songwriting Award RUNNER UP!
NICOLA MITCHELL with her song 'The Man Who Told Me'
Congratulations to Gore/Wellington local Nicola who had our audience captivated tonight!
There aren't many seats left....don't miss out!
https://www.iticket.co.nz/events/2024/may/tussock-country-music-honours
Who are you excited to see perform?
Zac Griffith along with his co-writer Allan Caswell are finalists for the MLT Songwriting Awards with their song “When I Go”.
Zac Griffith hails from the small country town of Tapawera, close to Nelson, and has been performing and picking guitar for over 10 years… His greatest achievement so far is winning the overall title at the NZ Gold Guitar Country Music Awards in 2023 with one of his own songs. Zac is now crafting his songwriting skills and working towards releasing an ep later this year.
Rosie Teese is a finalist in the MLT Songwriting Awards with her song “Addicted”.
Rosie Teese emerges as a force in country pop music. Born in New Zealand, her relatable story-telling has connected to audiences through her soulful voice and infectious melodies. Her musical journey began on stage at a young age, captivating listeners with her performances. At just 21, her live stage presence, infused with energy, emotion and captivating storytelling have solidified her reputation as an artist. Now, Rosie sets her sights on the global stage, ready to share her music with audiences far beyond her homeland. With her talent, determination, and unwavering passion for her craft, she’s poised to make a lasting mark on the world of country pop. Keep an eye out for Rosie Teese as she embarks on the next chapter of her musical journey, preparing to release her debut single with an EP to follow, representing the best of New Zealand’s vibrant music scene to fans around the globe.
Nicola Mitchell is a finalist in the MLT Songwriting Awards with her song “The Man Who Told Me”.
Nicola Mitchell is a folk/country singer-songwriter based in Te Whanganui-a-Tara/Wellington. She whakapapa’s back to Tainui iwi incorporating the reo into her writing wherever she can. She has worked in multiple family bands singing with her Twin, Maegan in a duo called The Mitchell Twins, as well as playing across Aotearoa and Australia with her older sister; Jenny Mitchell. In 2023 she was nominated alongside co-writers Maegan Mitchell & Tami Neilson for APRA Best Country Song with her song Find a River (performed by The Mitchell Twins) also in 2023 she won the Female Vocal Solo Section in the NZ Gold Guitar Awards.
Mel Parsons is a finalist for the MLT Songwriting Awards with her song “Hardest Thing”.
Multi-award winning singer songwriter Mel Parsons is one of Aotearoa / New Zealand’s most beloved touring acts. The 2020 Folk Artist of the Year is most at home on stage - her live shows are tight and compelling, with spellbinding harmonies and killer hooks entrancing from the first note. With her longtime band, Parsons toured as the NZ support for The Teskey Brothers, and is also a cast member of Kiwi musical supergroup ‘Fly My Pretties‘, with sell out tours and festival performances throughout Australasia. “Immaculate renditions of immaculate songs…Mel Parsons and her band are world class” - muzic.net
Secure your seat now!!
Mark Casey & Lavina Williams are MLT Songwriting Finalists with their song “Nothing To Fear”.
Lavina Williams and Mark Casey are friends first and co-songwriters second. Lavina supplies the musical genius and the world-class vocals for the demos. Mark helps out with some lyrics and goes along for the ride.
Grab your tickets now!
Karra Rhodes is a finalist in the MLT Songwriting Awards with her song “Tell Me Mama”.
Aōtearoa-based Scottish-born Karra Rhodes is an exciting fresh talent on the scene. An accomplished songwriter, guitarist, and pianist with a special flair for pouring her emotions and melodies into every song and lyric, Rhodes’ music resonates with authenticity and depth. A natural storyteller, Rhodes draws listeners into a compelling narrative that echoes the complexities of love and resilience and life in general into every song. The collaboration with the highly acclaimed Greg Haver on each of her songs strikes a harmonious balance between modernity and timelessness, with the resulting unique and emotionally resonant sound in all of her songs. With a gift for melody and a passion for storytelling, Rhodes is set to turn heads and make a mark. Now ready to forge ahead on her musical path, her perfect amalgam of a magnetic tune and highly relatable lyrics makes her one to watch as she impresses with her song-writing craft. With a full album of original compositions on the horizon, this is just a taste of what’s to come from rising star Karra Rhodes as she launches her career and sets the stage for an exciting new chapter in her unfolding musical journey.
Jon Collins is a finalist in the MLT Songwriting Awards with his song “Boots”.
Jon Collins was raised during the 90s on the Central West Slopes and Plains of Australia, where he spent his formative years on a rural property tinkering with music and learning the ways of the land. He is known from Sydney to Melbourne for his engaging, lively storytelling and thoroughly catchy melodies. He is currently working on the completion of his first album Lovestrong, due for release in Spring of 2024.
An introduction to collecting songwriting royalties in Aotearoa with
Register your interest via our website.
Congratulations to the APRA Best Country Song Award finalists!
Victoria & Andy Knopp &
The APRA Best Country Music Song Award will be presented at Country Music Honours on Friday 24 May alongside the MLT Songwriting Award.
You’ll be able to catch Katie Thompson & Holly Arrowsmith perform their songs live.
APRA AMCOS 321 Sessions
A day-long, co-writing workshop curated by iconic songwriter and Silver Scroll nominee , 12 selected songwriters will be split into groups of three to work together for 2 hours to co-write one song in a fun and low-pressure environment. Lunch will be provided.
Entry:
APRA AMCOS members will receive an application via email in mid-April 2024.
Visit apraamcos.co.nz to become a member.
Contact [email protected] with any queries
Fiona Louise is a finalist in the MLT Songwriting Awards with her song “Wilted Flower”.
Fiona Louise is a New Zealand singer-songwriter. Her debut single ‘Boomerang,’ released in 2018, garnered frequent radio play with its upbeat acoustics and lively melodies. Her approach to songwriting is both introspective and transformative – often navigating emotional landscapes while seeking to find fresh perspective with each new composition. Initially pursuing a Bachelor of Music at Waikato University, Fiona Louise later transitioned into a career in Marketing & Design. She was also awarded a Waikato Arts Scholarship for songwriting. Currently, Fiona Louise balances motherhood while completing an MBA, showcasing her dedication to both her artistic and professional endeavours.
Chad Robinson & Kate Targett-Adam’s are finalists in the MLT songwriting Awards with their song “Your Old Ways”.
Based in Queenstown, NZ, Kate Targett Adams hails originally from Edinburgh, Scotland and Chad Robinson from Christchurch, NZ. Chad is a multiple MLT songwriting finalist and winner in 2021. Kate has recorded 6 albums and received regular songwriting acclaim, including winning a category of the UK Songwriting Contest in 2007 after being awarded ‘Music and Culture Icon for Scotland 2004’. Collectively and individually, Kate and Chad have performed in various line ups for celebrities, royalty and at regular events, more recently blending this foundation into a dynamic songwriting collaboration. They were also finalists together in last years MLT competition. Pulling in influences of traditional folk, classical, as well as country and popular songwriters such as Neil Finn, the Beatles, Ryan Adams, the Everly Brothers and many more, they combine Celtic harp and acoustic guitar, spearheaded by compelling vocal melodies. They strive to create an original sound, and songs reflective of their experiences, observations, surroundings and eclectic musical backgrounds.
Secure your tickets now!
Barry Saunders is a finalist for the MLT Songwriting Award for his song “Little Victories”.
Barry Saunders started his music career in Christchurch. His first public performance was singing “Green –back Dollar” at the Lincoln Coronation Hall, aged 11. He played around Christchurch, in mostly blues-based bands, during his teenage years. He sailed on the good ship Australis to the UK in 1974. He played the Irish Trad and Country circuit in London for 3 years. He returned to New Zealand, and joined Wellington band Rockinghorse for a brief time. This was followed by a stint in the Tigers, travelling to Australia with them and touring relentlessly, including an Australia-wide tour with Eric Burdon. Upon his return to Wellington in 1987, he formed the Warratahs. The band became known for Saunders’ compositions, such as “Maureen”, “Hands of my Heart”, “St. Peter’s Rendezvous” and many others. After 9 albums, they are still very much alive. He recorded solo albums Weatherman, Red Morning, and Zodiac, touring them extensively. Barry has appeared on the bill with Tony J. White, Bob Dylan, Patti Smith and Jock Cocker, and has also performed at SXSW in Austin, Texas. The last 3 years have included the Church Tour (alongside Marlon Williams, Tami Nielson and Delaney Davidson), and the Last Waltz Tour, celebrating and performing the songs of The Band. In 2019 he released the highly acclaimed album Word Gets Around, an album written and recorded with Delaney Davidson. In 2019 Barry was commissioned by Kokomai - Wairarapa Creative Festival to develop a touring performance designed for presentation in small rural halls. He created As Far As The Eye Can See with Ebony Lamb and Caroline Easther. For their collaboration Word Gets Around, Delaney Davidson & Barry Saunders received the 2020 Tui for Recorded Music NZ’s Best Country Artist.
Don’t miss your chance to see Barry perform this unreleased song.
The 2024 MLT Songwriting Award Finalists are:
“Little Victories” written by Barry Saunders
“Your Old Ways” written by Chad Robinson & Kate Targett-Adams
“Wilted Flower” written by Fiona Louise
“Boots” written by Jon Collins
“Tell Me Mama” written by Karra Rhodes
“Nothing To Fear” written by Mark Casey & Lavina Williams
“Hardest Thing” written by MEL PARSONS
“The Man Who Told Me” written by Nicola Mitchell
“Addicted” written by Rosie Teese
“When I Go” written by Zac Griffith co-written by Allan Caswell
Congratulations to our top 10 and thank you to everyone who entered.
Country Music Honours 2024
🗓️ Friday 24 May
⏰ 7pm Doors Open & Red Carpet
📍 SBS St James Theatre, Gore
Tickets on sale now.
Dust off your cowboy boots, find your best suit or frock; you’re invited to the Country Music Honours 2024 💃✨
Hollywood glamour descends on Gore NZ to celebrate music and the musicians who make it.
Hosted by the New Zealand Songwriters Trust, this event of two halves showcases performances from finalists in two different, but equally entertaining awards. They are:
⭐ APRA AMCOS NZ Best New Zealand Country Music Song of the Year 2024 - celebrating the best of New Zealand’s country music.
⭐ MLT Songwriting Award 2024 - the best unrecorded songs from around NZ, performed in public for the first time.
⭐ Plus a special guest appearance from household name and life-long country music icon; Suzanne Prentice.
Walk the red carpet then enjoy an evening of world class entertainment, seated alongside the stars. All welcome! 🤩
St. James Theatre
7pm, Friday 24th May
Tickets on sale now!
The bubbles are chilling! Who are you hoping to see perform at this year’s the Country Music Honours?
The Honours include award presentations and finalist performances of the top 10 unreleased songs in the 2024 MLT Songwriting Award and the year’s top recorded songs vying for the coveted award of APRA AMCOS Best Country Music Song.
The 2024 Honours will also feature a special guest appearance from household name and life-long country music icon; Suzanne Prentice.
🎟️ Tickets on sale now! Join us to celebrate Aotearoa New Zealand’s brightest country music stars with a feast of performances and unforgettable award moments.
🗓️ Friday 24 May
⏰ 7pm Doors Open & Red Carpet
📍 SBS St James Theatre, Gore
Be sure to grab your early bird tickets.
https://www.iticket.co.nz/events/2024/may/tussock-country-music-honours
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Dust off your cowboy boots, find your best suit or frock; you’re invited to the Country Music Honours 2024 💃✨ Hollywood glamour descends on Gore NZ to celebrate music and the musicians who make it. Hosted by the New Zealand Songwriters Trust, this event of two halves showcases performances from finalists in two different, but equally entertaining awards. They are: ⭐ APRA AMCOS NZ Best New Zealand Country Music Song of the Year 2024 - celebrating the best of New Zealand’s country music. ⭐ MLT Songwriting Award 2024 - the best unrecorded songs from around NZ, performed in public for the first time. ⭐ Plus a special guest appearance from household name and life-long country music icon; Suzanne Prentice. Walk the red carpet then enjoy an evening of world class entertainment, seated alongside the stars. All welcome! 🤩 St. James Theatre 7pm, Friday 24th May Tickets on sale now!
Tonight at the Longford
It's come to our attention that you may not know who some of our finalists are so here we go! Holly Arrowsmith, Jamie McDell, Tami Neilson, Ron Mitchell, Jenny Mitchell, Olivia Sutherland, Kendall Elise, Kaylee Bell, Miller Yule Music & Kerryn Fields Music. We also have Luke O'Shea all the way from Australia & our very own Lachie Hayes. It's going to be a night you won't want to miss!
Guest artists 2018 'The Nukes'
the finalists for the MLT NZ Song Writing Award in no particular order are: 1. Veronica Grace (Auckland) song - Arrows and Bows. 2. Katie Thompson (Christchurch) song - West Coast. 3. Kaylee Bell (New Zealand)& Jarad Porter(Australia) song - Go 4. Kaylee Bell (New Zealand) Phil Barton(Nashville)& Bryan White (Nashville) song - Last Kiss 5. Ron Mitchell (Gore) song - Prop me up 6. Joanne Buchanan (Invercargill) song - The River 7. Jenny Mitchell(Gore) song - Puppet 8. David Haslett,Marshall Smith (Auckland) song - Out In The Cold 9. Lana Doublet (Christchurch) song - Crush 10. Chad Robinson (Auckland) song - The Detective Congratulations to the finalists: All songs will be performed live at the: New Zealand Country Music Awards on Thursday 2 June 2016 at the St James Theatre Gore.
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