An Emotional John Williamson honoured at his 40th year celebration Tamworth

Thursday 21^st January 2010: John Williamson was today honoured in Tamworth by Ms Quentin Bryce AC, Governor-General for his forty years in the entertainment industry. In the midst of the annual country music festival, the Governor-General presented the TRUE BLUE Williamson with a special glass-etched award for his milestone year congratulating him on his achievement.

The function, held in the country music capital, also saw John Williamson presented with a Gold Record for his sales of 2008 album release ‘HILLBILLY ROAD’ from EMI Chief Executive Officer, Mark Poston.

The Governor-General recognized the iconic songwriter through the presentation of the etched plaque in front of family, friends, colleagues and media.

In her speech she recognised his importance to the country, his contribution in vocalising so descriptively the land and his passion for the country.

During his introduction, Mark Poston - SVP Marketing, Australasia & Country Chairman Australasia EMI said, “Everyone at EMI is proud to be associated with John Williamson. EMI is a music company built on an incredible lineage - from The Beatles to The Beach Boys to Coldplay and Slim Dusty - and all that’s in between. John Williamson stands alongside those iconic artists as one of Australia ’s finest. Congratulations from us all John for another Gold record with HILLBILLY ROAD and looking forward to a big year ahead for your 40^th anniversary year in the business”.

Williamson, who was unaware of planned presentations and the Governor-General’s intended presence at the function, was grateful and humbled by the double presentation.

“From the Mallee to Croppa Creek and all around our country, I have been inspired by the land, characters and stories before me.  HILLBILLY ROAD was a personal album, one that flowed so easily from me and to have my fans enjoy it as much as I did is such a reward. Here now, 40 Years in the industry and to be recognised so publicly is an honour. I am grateful to all who have supported, worked with or stood beside me, thank you,” said John Williamson after the presentation.

John Williamson is celebrating his 40^th year with a special “The Absolute Best of JOHN WILLIAMSON: 40 YEARS TRUE BLUE” album release containing his most popular and requested tracks, to be released on March 19th 2010. A special TRIBUTE ALBUM completes the 2-disc pack made up of some of Australia ’s most recognised names performing his songs in their style. From Kasey Chambers, Troy Cassar-Daley, The Waifs, Wendy Matthews, Adam Harvey, Russell Crowe and Tommy Emmanuel to name a few.

Williamson will also tour throughout 2010 delivering to audiences a special 40th YEAR celebration concert.

Whilst in Tamworth , John Williamson will play the historic Town Hall on Friday 22^nd January 2010 before attending and being honoured with a special tribute performance at the 38^th Country Music Awards of Australia (Golden Guitars) on Saturday 23^rd January where he is also a nominee in the VOCAL COLLABORATION category.