Singer/songwriter Aleyce Simmonds is amongst the finalists in the Female Artist Of The Year category of the 2014 CMAA Country Music Awards Of Australia. The announcement, made at Sydney’s Hard Rock Cafe on Tuesday, follows news that ‘Believe’ the title track and first single from Aleyce’s second full-length album, hits the Australian Country Tracks Top 30 and CMC Top 50 countdown.
“I feel like I’m caught in a whirlwind”, says Simmonds. “It has been a crazy year recording and releasing an album whilst touring so constantly. This nomination means a real lot to me. I can’t wait to stand still long enough to breathe and take it all in!”
Simmonds completed extensive back to back tours – Songwriters In The Round tour early in the year with fellow Golden Guitar nominees Luke O’Shea and Lachlan Bryan and the national, Pure Acoustic Blonde Tour with fellow Female Artist Of The Year finalist Dianna Corcoran. Aleyce is currently back on the road with Lachlan Bryan; who is a finalist in the Best Alternative Country Album category.
Simmonds says touring is crucial to her career philosophy, “I want as many people as possible to hear this music. I’m so passionate about our industry and strengthening it is really important to me. I believe we can do it – the old fashioned way. Getting in the car, driving to wherever we need to go to play to all those willing (and un-willing!) to listen. So that’s what I’m doing!”
“Believe” is the follow-up to 2011’s triple Golden Guitar nominated debut “Pieces Of Me” and displays musical and personal maturity. The songs are heartfelt with inspiring and uplifting messages. “I’ve been through a rough few years personally and health wise. “Believe” is a collection of songs, written from the heart to bring hope to those going through the ups and downs that life can bring”, says the Tamworth-raised and now Sydney-based artist.
Immediately following the announcement ceremony, Aleyce left the country to perform for Australian troops serving overseas. She will return to Australia on the 21st November.
For all media enquiries including interviews:
Ms Kris Katsanis | KrisKat Publicity
E: kris@kriskatpublicity.com.au | M: 0414 334 348 | Ph: 02 9349 5328
Winners of the Country Music Awards Of Australia will be announced at the Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Conference Centre (TRECC) on the 25th January, 2014.
“Believe” the album, debuted at #7 on the ARIA Country Album Chart – #4 on the ARIA Hit Seekers Chart.