Lyn Bowtell slices through with Paper Cut.
Multi Award-winning Australian country music sensation Lyn Bowtell has unveiled her latest single, ‘Paper Cut’, a poignant track that explores the pain of fractured relationships, both romantic and platonic.
The idea for ‘Paper Cut’ came to Lyn after receiving an actual paper cut while doing admin.
“When it happened, I thought to myself, ‘It won’t kill me; it’s just a paper cut,’ then that thought suggested a connection with my experiences of relationship breakdowns,” Lyn explained.
“The sense of loss when a relationship ends, whether it be creative, friendship or romantic, can linger. Sometimes, even a small reminder brings the pain back. It’s as much a heart wound, as it is a physical one. It was one of those quick song writes that are a blessing: that arrive swiftly, almost fully formed.”
The single features the vocal harmonies of country music icon Kasey Chambers, who fell in love with the track after hearing Lyn perform it during a SHE Songwriting Retreat.
“Kasey’s harmonies add a real depth,” Lyn said.
“She captured the raw, broken-hearted emotion perfectly, reminiscent of an Emmylou Harris classic.”
Adding to the song’s timeless appeal is Kasey’s father, Bill Chambers, whose slide guitar work lends a rich, vintage country feel.
“Having Bill involved was the icing on the cake,” Lyn said.
“His contributions are a heartfelt nod to legends like Patsy Cline and George Jones who shaped my love for country music.”
‘Paper Cut’ also symbolises Lyn’s growth both personally and professionally. The 10-time Golden Guitar winner has entrusted herself even further with the recording of her upcoming album, stepping into the producer’s chair for the first time alongside partner, Damon Morton.
Her ongoing work with SHE Songwriting Retreats – a passion project encouraging and empowering women songwriters, has also influenced the themes of the track.
“This song’s message is about trusting your instincts,” Lyn said.
“If something feels wrong, step away, take a moment, and prioritise yourself.”
Lyn describes ‘Paper Cut’ as an “instant classic”, rooted in the simplicity and purity of traditional country music.
“This track reflects where I come from – Queensland country music clubs and my mum’s cherished record collection,” she said.
“There’s a beauty in the simplicity of those songs, and that’s what I’ve tried to re-create here.”
‘Paper Cut’ will debut live at the Tamworth Country Music Festival, with Lyn hosting Lyn Bowtell and Her Famous Friends at the Longyard Hotel on January 26.