Albany country music artist Rachel Lincoln a double-category finalist in the 2025 WA Country Music Awards

An Albany singer-songwriter is a double-category finalist for the 2025 WA Country Music Awards recognising her debut album and burgeoning country music career.

Rachel Lincoln is one of three finalists for the female artist of the year and country album of the year with the winner to be announced at the Boyup Brook Country Music Muster next month.

The up-and-coming pop star said it was “a huge honour to be nominated” for her self-named debut album, which was released on July 19, 2024.

“I put a lot of hard work into it and it took many months from start to finish,” Lincoln said.

“A lot of the songs on the album have already won awards on their own, but this time all 10 tracks are being considered as a collection.

“When you put something you’ve created out into the ether, it can be daunting to see how it is received.

“So it’s great to see my work has not only been received well but has made the cut to the final three contenders.”

Lincoln was awarded the JMA songwriter achievement award at the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Tennessee at the end of 2024.

She said the positive recognition inspires her to use music to create change and connect people.

“Realising my work is worthy of recognition in the industry gives me the motivation to push on and hopefully find ways to use music to benefit the greater good,” she said.

“Seeing people come together for a common love, music or whatever it may be, is always great and I’m looking forward to discovering the other WA talent.

“I’d like to now focus on ways to use music as a vessel for social change, with everything going on in the world at the moment I think we all need that.

“The next thing I write will probably be a social impact song I think, my journey as an artist is ever-evolving.”

Boyup Brook Country Music Muster music director Sharon Winter said the awards were “a celebration of country music talent in WA”.

“We work hard to recognise outstanding artists and songwriters,” she said.

“It showcases the depth and diversity of the talent we have in the State and country music scene.

“We aim to encourage and support local talent, provide a platform for them and propel them to the next level.”

A people’s choice award is open to vote for your favourite finalist at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/WACMA2025. Voting closes at 11.45pm on January 29.

The Boyup Brook Country Music Muster runs from February 14 to 16. Tickets are available online: wacountrymusic.com.au.