Australian Musician Ruby Boots Receives Grant For Nashville Songwriter Residency

The Australian Government’s Council for the Arts has named Ruby Boots (Bex Chilcott) as the recipient of the Nashville Songwriter Residency grant.

In its fourth year, the $15,000 grant is the result of a partnership between the Australia Council’s Music Board and Nashville-based producer Mark Moffatt.

Through the residency, Chilcott, who is signed to UMG/Lost Highway Australia, will reside in Nashville for three months, providing her the opportunity to work alongside the music community and further her network of artist and industry relationships.

Upcoming appearances in Nashville include Sunday (Aug. 7) at City Winery, Aug. 17 in The East Room, and Aug. 22 at The Basement. She will also perform an official showcase at the Americana Music Festival in September.

Moffatt said, “Australia is a leading global A&R source for country and Americana, so I am thrilled that the Arts Council of Australia continues to focus its resources on Nashville. The grant not only provides the opportunity for Bex to experience Nashville’s creative community for an extended period, but will also allow her to consolidate the following she has gained on her recent U.S. national tour with The Waifs.”

Chilcott said, “Having done countless trips to Nashville to write, record and perform over the past four years makes being awarded the Nashville residency even more special. Being given the opportunity to live in a city that I love more than any other in the world and spending time solely on my craft is life changing, and one of the most rewarding things that has come my way. I am so happy to be here building my musical community and writing songs for my second album — a dream come true!”

Since 2011, The West Australian Music Awards has recognized Chilcott as the Best Country Music Act five consecutive times. The release of her debut album, Solitude, has achieved international success and led to touring opportunities with Kris Kristofferson, Tony Joe White, Justin Townes Earle, Shovels & Rope, Shakey Graves, and Nikki Lane.

In 2015, Chilcott received the prestigious Professional Development Award from APRA, the Australian Performing Rights Association.