Rising Country Artist Peter Chapman Releases Heartfelt Tribute with New Single ‘Drinking In Your Honour’
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Australian rising country music artist Peter Chapman has unveiled his latest single, ‘Drinking In Your Honour’, a deeply personal and resonant track that serves as a poignant tribute to the individuals who enrich our lives, both present and past. Inspired by genuine experiences and the tapestry of human connection, the song beautifully encapsulates moments of shared joy, heartfelt loss, and profound appreciation for the people who shape our journeys. Demonstrating its immediate appeal, ‘Drinking In Your Honour’ has already been added to Apple Music’s esteemed New In Country playlist.
The genesis of ‘Drinking In Your Honour’ struck Peter during a drive, with the evocative title laying the groundwork for a song brimming with emotional depth. The resulting track masterfully navigates the spectrum of life’s experiences, from celebratory highs to moments of quiet reflection. Through vivid lyrical snapshots, Chapman paints a picture of universal connections: a grandfather’s wartime service (a fictional narrative within the song), a mate unexpectedly called in for overtime, and tender nods to his parents, whose consistent offering of Jatz crackers, cheese, and tomato fueled countless band rehearsals. This rich tapestry of personal anecdotes ensures the song’s themes resonate far beyond Chapman’s own experiences.
A particularly significant influence on ‘Drinking In Your Honour’ is the memory of Peter’s close friend, Simon Reed. A respected local musician, Reed took a young 18-year-old Peter under his wing, nurturing his musical aspirations by getting him behind the drum kit and inviting him to jam sessions after his early morning shifts as a baker. Reed’s sudden passing from a heart attack just before his 51st birthday profoundly impacted Peter, leading to his heartfelt inclusion in the song as a lasting tribute. Further inspiration for the track comes from figures like Johnny Plath, the legendary Brisbane Broncos player renowned for his four premiership victories.
Having road-tested ‘Drinking In Your Honour’ for over a year, Peter witnessed firsthand the song’s remarkable ability to connect with audiences. This was particularly evident during intimate listening sessions while opening for acclaimed artists Brooke McClymont and Adam Eckersley. The overwhelmingly positive response from the crowds solidified his decision: this deeply moving track was undoubtedly his next single.
‘Drinking In Your Honour’ was meticulously crafted at Recordworks in Coorparoo, with Jason Millhouse lending his expertise in engineering, mixing, and mastering. The track boasts a stellar lineup of musicians, featuring Lee Griffin on electric guitars, bass, and backing vocals, the formidable Jackie Barnes on drums, and Jason Millhouse adding subtle yet impactful percussion. Peter himself delivers the heartfelt vocals and anchors the song with his acoustic guitar work.
To commemorate the release of this significant single, Peter Chapman is embarking on his ‘Drinking In Your Honour Tour’ with his dynamic band, Peter Chapman and the Lumberjacks – comprising Lee Griffin, Mick Sims, and Harry Schneider. The tour will bring their engaging live performance to venues across New South Wales and Queensland:
- April 27 – Music In The Mulga, Thargomindah, QLD
- May 3 – The Beer Shed, Leumeah, NSW
- May 24 – The Lou Lou Room, Wynnum, QLD
‘Drinking In Your Honour’ transcends the typical boundaries of a song; it stands as a heartfelt celebration of life, cherished memories, and the indelible mark left by the people who touch our lives in profound ways. With its relatable themes and genuine emotion, Peter Chapman’s latest single is poised to resonate deeply with listeners and further solidify his position as a compelling voice in the Australian country music landscape.