AUSTRALIAN PROMOTIONAL PRESS

You've been incredibly successful as a country music artist in the States, but you're back home in Australia for a promotional visit. Are you hoping to relate to Australian audiences more?

K> It's a challenge to get ourselves a little more known here. I totally accept the fact I've put the last 12 years fully and completely into the States. I'm glad I put in the time there, but the price I've paid is coming to Australia and people going 'huh?' 'who?'

I must admit though, you passed the taxi driver test. As I was on my way to the interview, the taxi driver was very excited to hear i'd be speaking to you...

K> Yeah, but I think if you ask them to name a song, they can't. That's the next lot of dots we've got to connect.

These days your image is centered on a clean-cut, good-looking guy of country music.Do you think it's important for people to perceive you that way, or would you prefer them to concentrate on the music?

K> It's always the music. I mean, in the end you're buying a CD, you're not buying me to come home and meet the parents [laughs]. Then again, anythings possible, right?

You've lived in the US for so long now - how do you perceive the mood there at the moment?

K> It's such a resilient country and that seems to permeate everything. But to a large degree, and I only look at it from my point of view, I'm there because of the classic American dream. Of being able to fulfil your grandiose ambitions. I'm so grateful that still exists in that country.

You recieved a special achievement award at the ARIA's, but do you hope that eventually down the track you'll be recognised with an award such as best male artist or best album?

K> I certainly want to enter as far as people gravitating towards the music. But I have mixed feelings about awards ceremonies, and I think most artists do. It feels a bit like throwing your kid into a beauty pageant, it's a bit creepy.

In the early stages of your career, you did the hard yards in Tamworth. How does it compare to Nashville?

K> Of course the business is based in Nashville all year round, there's a centralisation of the country industry. Whereas Tamworth is a country music month and I think the Tamworth locals would appreciate everyone being reminded of that. Before all the yokels turn up. Haha.