IT’S the towns like Singleton that are the heart and soul of music.
That’s the belief of Lee Kernaghan who spoke of his fondness and connection with Singleton ahead of his upcoming Australian tour, the Pubs, Clubs and Carparks Tour.
While he has plenty of fans, one particular fan has an even stronger connection with the musician. Singleton’s Ashley Judge is president of his outback fan club, a role she has held for many years.
Lee got to know Ashley when she was a school girl after she won the channel 9 competition ‘Guess who’s coming to dinner’. Lee surprised Ashley at her school (Singleton High) during assembly and then joined her for dinner at her house.
He put on a show for her family and friends, with the whole street turning out for the show which was performed on the Judges’ front verandah but later moved to the showground because there was so many people.
Lee Kernaghan also had a strong connection with Tom Kirkwood, a loved member of the Singleton community who passed away two years ago after his long battle with cancer. Lee stated that they used to talk regularly on the phone and Tom was the first person in Australia to hear many of his songs from the ‘Planet Country’ album.
Tom also provided the inspiration for many of Lee’s songs.
“He is a legendary boy whose spirit lit up all of his friends, his community, and many others around Australia.
“I loved and respected Tom for the fighting spirit that he possessed and the great passion he had for life.”
Lee has expressed a great appreciation for the soldiers at our School of Infantry, with his song ‘Australian Boy’ dedicated to Australian soldiers serving within our country and overseas.
“I have a huge amount of respect for the past and present service men and women and all that they do for our country.
“I also respect the families who do such a fantastic job of keeping it together at home.”
Lee finds constant inspiration from the country for his music.
Lee Kernaghan was the 2008 Australian of the year and has also worked in conjunction with Ruralco to form the Aussie Helpers Children’s Fund, an alliance to help disadvantaged children in rural Australia.
Lee is passionate about helping to make a difference for children in the bush.
He is currently working on a project with cardiovascular specialist Dr Ross Sharpe to bring much needed specialised equipment to rural areas.
Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer in Australia and the mortality rate is 30per cent higher in rural areas.
Later in the year, Lee will be performing in the flood affected areas in Queensland and donating all funds back to these communities to assist them in the rebuilding process.
Lee has a large involvement in charity and volunteer work, seeing it as an important part of his life.
“I like to make a contribution because Australia has given me an enormous amount, especially in terms of supporting my music, therefore I feel it is important to give back.”
Lee considers all of his fans as friends.
“It’s my mates out there that have put these songs on the map. The people who have come out to the shows, bought the records and made these songs a part of the soundtrack of their lives.”
Lee hopes to see all of his fans at his Pubs, Clubs and Carparks Australian Tour, 2011.
“I’m looking forward to the annual general meeting of the outback fan club at the Cessnock show and catching up with all of my loyal fans, including Ashley,” he said.
Lee performs at West Leagues Club in Newcastle on July 20 and at Cessnock Supporters Club on July 21.
Email a friend