Proud Gamilaraay woman Loren Ryan has been crowned the 43rd Toyota Star Maker, following an impressive performance at the 2023 Grand Final concert on Sunday 15 January.
Lauren Ryan at the 2023 Toyota Star Maker presentations.
Loren impressed the judges with a stellar performance of her original songs Bounce Back and Suddenly with Star Maker coordinator and judge, Cheryl Brown saying the judges had a difficult time coming to a final decision.
“The judges had a difficult time coming to a final decision tonight, as they so often do, and after taking all elements into consideration, it was Loren we felt was most ready,” Miss Brown said.
“Whilst there is only one winner, the nine grand finalists should be proud of their performances tonight. It validates their worth in the Australian country music industry and we hope that they can carry on long after the festival, knowing that they were chosen among the best new artists for the year.”
The competition has launched the careers of some of Australia’s top artists including Lee Kernaghan, Beccy Cole, Travis Collins, Sam McClymont, Lyn Bowtell, Kirsty Lee Akers, Blake O’Connor, Brad Cox and international superstar Keith Urban and now Loren has joined their ranks.
Loren has taken the crown from Newcastle singer-songwriter Max Jackson, who became the 42nd Star Maker winner in 2022 and after witnessing her highly rewarding past eight months, Miss Brown said she looks forward to making the year ahead just as memorable for Loren.
As the 2023 Toyota Star Maker winner, Loren not only holds the title for a year, but receives a significant prize package, which includes 12-months use of a brand new Toyota vehicle and fuel card, a trip to Nashville for the CMA Festival in June 2023 courtesy of Chris Watson Travel, photo portfolio with Andrew Pearson Photography, a recording session and production of two professional video clips, plus the opportunity to perform at major festivals and events across Australia and music products from Maton, Fender and Jands.