The singer/songwriter is up for two Golden Guitar awards in 2018 - for Best New Talent and Male Artist of the year -  and he couldn't be happier.

The finalists nods come off the back of the success of his latest album My Soundtrack and the past year has seen him climb the country charts. He’s also been on the road touring with his close mate Adam Brand.

Cornell will perform with music legend Mike Carr at West Tamworth League Club on Friday, January 26, from 8pm.

It will be a stripped back show where the duo tell the stories behind their songs and play them the way they were written.

"I've got all these bits and pieces every day. I want to keep my calendar as busy as possible and take it all in and get to the awards,” he said.

Cornell said he didn't think he had a chance of being named a Golden Guitar finalist but he was overwhelmed by the news he was in the running for two awards.

“It's such a great feeling. I never thought it would feel this good ... it feels like getting a big hug from the country music industry and everyone involved,” he said.

Tickets are available from the venue.