For the first time, radio broadcasters, programmers and presenters will join forces with the country music industry early next year to dramatically change the way country music is played on Australian radio.

The two industries will come together at the inaugural Country Music Radio Seminar Australia on January 26 in Tamworth, which has been organised by the Country Music Association (CMA) Australian Advisory Group and the Tamworth Country Music Festival 2012.

Michael Chugg, Executive Chairman of Chugg Entertainment, a pioneer in the Australia music industry, will be the key-note speaker. Chugg has heavily supported the career of Australia’s most successful country musician and singer Keith Urban, and has brought some of the world’s leading country acts such as Taylor Swift, Dolly Parton, Alan Jackson, Tim McGraw and Brooks and Dunn to Australia.

Rob Potts, Chair of the CMA Australian Advisory Group and CEO of Entertainment Edge, said “Radio is the most important way for Australian audiences to embrace country songs and recordings. The growth of many new country radio stations in Australia, plus the advent of digital radio, is providing many more opportunities for Australian and international country music and the Australian radio industry.

“One aspect we are keen to develop is a hit-driven radio format similar to ones that already exist for most other music genres.

“It is critical for radio broadcasters, programmers and presenters and the country music industry to come together regularly and discuss ways to grow our respective industries. Our seminar is based on the highly successful Country Radio Seminar, held annually in Nashville, which has worked to grow country music into the most successful radio format of any genre in USA including pop and rock. We are planning on the Country Music Radio Seminar Australia becoming an annual event,” said Rob Potts.

Rob Potts is available for interview. Media enquiries to:

Kerry Roberts at 02 9712 8445 or email kerryroberts@therobertsnetwork.com.au