West Gippsland talent travels to Nashville

by Bonnie Collings
"Fair dinkum, that was not on my bingo card for today," were the words spoken by Warragul musician Ethan Calway last week when he was announced as the inaugural recipient of the Keith Urban Rising Star Scholarship.
Known for his raw yet emotive vocal style, strong guitar work and his captivating performance on the 2025 season of "The Voice", Ethan is one of West Gippsland's most exciting musical talents.
With a trip to the home of country music now on the horizon, the Rising Star Scholarship is the next step in the singer's emerging career.
Created in partnership with the Tamworth Country Music Festival, the scholarship was designed to support one rising Australian country artist who was ready to take the next step internationally. The scholarship offers a career-defining opportunity in Nashville - including the chance to perform, write, record, and connect with key industry figures and undertake dedicated recording time at Urban's studio, "The Sound".
Keith Urban broke the news of the scholarship on a Zoom call, much to Ethan's surprise.
"It was a surreal feeling, I genuinely had no idea he was about to jump on (the call)," Ethan said.
"It was just like watching your hero right there on your screen talking to you. I had to kind of take a step back and have to take a second to take it all in."
Ethan said when he learnt about the scholarship opportunity, his mindset was "well, why not?"
"I just applied because I love Keith Urban, he's been a massive inspiration to me," Ethan said. "I saw what the prize was and I was like, what's there to lose?"

"It's that initial break that you look for as an artist and just to be seen by someone of that level, there's no going back really."

Still coming to terms with the opportunity ahead of him, Ethan said travelling to Nashville had always been a dream of his.
"To learn, write and record in Nashville, and to have that kind of support behind me, is something I've always dreamed about," he said.
"Keith's been such a massive inspiration in my life and just being picked by him, having him say my name, tell me how much he loves my music was just like a dream come true.
"I can't wait to get over there and make the most of it."
It was Ethan's unique blend of country, rock and storytelling influences and the true authenticity in his music that made him stand out amongst the applicants. His artistry reflects both lived experience and a clear creative vision.
Keith Urban commended Ethan's ability to connect with the audience through his music.
"Ethan has something really special," he said. "There's a rawness and honesty in what he does that really connects. I'm excited to see what this next chapter brings for him and to be part of that journey."
Ethan will head to Nashville in June, and is more than ready to take on the 10-day scholarship experience.
"I'm beyond grateful to be chosen for something like this," he said.