SHE’s a Tamworth Country Music Festival favourite whose powerful voice is known for turning heads; but even Lyn Bowtell was surprised when she turned the chairs of the four judges on The Voice on Sunday night.
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The established singer-songwriter was still buzzing from her stellar blind audition on the show, which saw her join Boy George’s team.
Just seconds into Bowtell’s audition song of Sting’s Fields of Gold, an overwhelmed George turned his chair.
He was followed soon after by Kelly Rowland, Delta Goodrem and then Seal, leaving Bowtell with a big decision to make.
Bowtell dedicated the song to her late father with her mum watching from side stage.
“It was an unreal experience having these four superstars in a cat fight kind of thing, arguing why I should go with them,” she told The Leader.
“But I went with my heart...It was the moment George turned around to me early, I wasn’t expecting it and when he looked at me, my energy shifted and I lost focus.
“I had to gain composure, it really touched my heart and what he said was really heartfelt.”
The audition was filmed eight weeks ago, and while Bowtell can’t reveal what she’s been up to since, she says “it’s been fun”.
“Working with The Voice has been such a great experience from every level and everyone involved,” she said.
“They are all just wonderful people.
“George has so much to offer and has done so much in his career.
“He has never been afraid to be who he is, even if it goes against the grain, he’s lived, and I’m really excited to be working with him.”
While Bowtell is an established artist in her own right, picking up three of her six Golden Guitar awards this year, she said she entered the competition to grow as an artist and to share her music on another level.
“I’m incredibly happy and really overwhelmed by all the beautiful comments and support from the country music industry,” she said.
“For me it’s a chance to learn something new and it’s a great opportunity.
“I really hoped my country family understand why I’m doing this and don’t think I’m turning my back on them; I’m looking for a broader audience and they understand where I’m coming from.
“The Voice is viewed by 1.5 million people per night.
“I’ve never played in front of that many people.
“I see it as an opportunity to broaden that fan base, so why not do it?”
Bowtell said she was pleased part of her back story to the audition could be filmed in Tamworth – a place where she’s shared many memorable music moments and helped nurture rising talent as the CMAA Academy of Country Music director.
“I want to say a big thank you to the people of Tamworth for being such an amazing support over the years and through this process as well,” she said.