Following a thrilling year of touring across Australia and Canada to promote his fourth studio album, Shades On Me, acclaimed Australian singer-songwriter Andy Penkow is set to release his latest single, “The Lone Drover.” With this new release, Penkow once again demonstrates his versatility by transitioning from contemporary sounds to a more traditional Aussie bush ballad.
“The Lone Drover” is a poignant exploration of love, heartbreak, and self-discovery. The song tells the story of a resilient Australian outback worker, or “battler,” who loses love only to find it anew. Central to the narrative is the deep bond he shares with his daughter and the rugged land he calls home. This single serves as a prequel to Penkow’s 2023 Golden Guitar-nominated bush ballad, “Ghostly Gums.”
Hailing from the small town of Sussex Inlet in New South Wales, Penkow grew up immersed in a diverse range of country music influences, from legends like Elvis Presley, Dolly Parton, and Hank Williams to iconic Australian artists such as Slim Dusty, John Williamson, and Kasey Chambers. His deep appreciation for traditional Australian country music is evident, as he pays homage to the great bush balladeers who have come before him.
Reflecting on the creation of “The Lone Drover,” Penkow shared, “Writing this bush ballad was a deeply moving experience for me. Collaborating with talented songwriters Kath Stewart and Rip-Van Parks and working with the exceptional producer Steve Newton at ENREC Studios, allowed me to bring this story to life. I envisioned what the drover must have felt-losing the love of his life, raising a child alone as best he knew how. The doubt and fear, the loneliness and pain, and yet, the warmth and love he felt for his daughter. My admiration for all the Aussie drovers and farmers, working in some of the harshest terrains, has grown tenfold.”
As an artist passionate about his craft, Penkow emphasises the significance of “The Lone Drover” as a reflection of his artistic identity. “People may question my musical style, whether I’m contemporary, alternative, country blues, or traditional. To me, I am an artist and storyteller, first and foremost. I write and sing songs that resonate with me on a personal level, and I hope my audiences can connect with that.”