Waikato musician’s American fanbase
A Hamilton musician will be performing in the home of country music later this year after he was nominated for international awards.
Che Orton, 34, will attend the Texas Sounds International Country Music Awards as both an entertainer and nominee.
Held in Jefferson, Texas, the area produced some country greats like Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings and Pat Green. But it was Elvis that first sparked Orton’s interest in performing.
‘‘My first time performing I was Elvis for Drifters Rock and Roll Club. It was terrible,’’ he said.
But Orton refined his craft and impersonated The King on stage for more than 10 years.
Born and bred in the Waikato, Orton has his roots in 1950s and 1960s rock and roll. He began singing and writing country music four years ago.
He toured as part of a Bee Gees tribute show for five years and has been a full-time musician for 10 years.
In fact, the Gibb brothers are an influence of Orton’s, in the way they write their songs, he said.
Through social media, Orton garnered interest and a good following in the United States.
The organisers of Texas Sounds contacted him online and told him he was nominated for the
‘‘I was blown away to know my music was even known.’’
awards.
‘‘I was blown away to know my music was even known,’’ he said.
There are a number of awards up for grabs, including Entertainer of the Year, Rising Star of the Year and Songwriter of the Year.
‘‘I’m not into music to get the awards, but when you do it’s cool to be recognised.’’
The former Fairfield College student is no stranger to accolades. He was recently awarded Face TV’s Best Male Vocal of the Year and Entertainer of the Year.
Ironically, his music teacher told him he wouldn’t make it in the industry. In fact, Orton has had skeptical receptions from some when he told them he wanted to be a musician.
While country music is very popular in America, New Zealand is still a bit behind the trend.
Orton hopes to see the scene grow and more radio stations supporting local artists.
Texas Sounds will be held in November. The trip will cost Orton around $6000 and he is currently looking for sponsorship.
To find out more, contact Che on info@cheorton.com