SELF-DESCRIBED “cheeky bugger” Adam Brand has opened up about the pitfalls, perks and pressures of the country music industry.
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“Everything’s difficult, it all comes down to your work ethic and the people you have around you,” he said.
“One of the things you don’t realise is the sacrifice you have to make – in 20 years I’ve probably missed 80 per cent of family gatherings, birthdays and weddings.
“You’re away a lot, I can’t plan a holiday in six months because I don’t know if I’ll get gigs in that time – when you’re starting you need to make the most of every opportunity.”
Brand is co-hosting the Golden Guitar Awards alongside country artist Amber Lawrence.
It’s his first time hosting a massive ceremony that gives a nod to the best in the industry.
In Tamworth on Monday to talk to students at the CMAA Academy of Country Music, Brand felt it’s important to prepare future stars for the realities of the job.
While music is a creative industry, it’s managing the business principles that most find difficult he said.
“This life can be chaotic because it’s never routine and scripted,” he said.
“For me it fits because I’ve got a gypsy spirit.”
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For Brand, sharing these intimate moments with thousands of people is something he treasures wholeheartedly.
Giving insight into his life that makes people smile or think is his goal, he likes to stay away from promotional posts even if they push his career further.
“I never like to go on social media continuously asking people to vote for me, buy this now – it should be a way of showing your followers who you truly are,” he said.
“It doesn’t matter how many followers you have – it’s about making those people who follow you engage and connect with you.
“Find your tribe and love ‘em.”
Excited to host the GG’s, Brand couldn’t have asked for a better co-host than Amber Lawrence.
Especially with tough competition this year, like seven time nominee Kasey Chambers.
“Don’t expect too much – put that in bold letters in this story,” Brand said.
“Someone thought it was a good idea to give me the microphone when there’s not music playing – but I’m sure Amber and I will have a great night at the pinnacle of our industry awards.
“I can’t stuff it up too bad – hopefully.”
The Toyota Country Music Festival Golden Guitar Awards is on Saturday, January 26 at Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Conference Centre.
Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
