HE'S KNOWN as 'the black Elvis' and now, proud Kamilaroi man Uncle Roger Knox has been inducted into the 2022 Galaxy of Stars.
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Uncle Roger moved to Tamworth at just 17, starting his career as a gospel singer recognised for his hairstyle and snappy dress sense.
He's released five albums, toured across the globe and was presented with his award in Tamworth on Tuesday.
The Galaxy of Starts launched more than 20 years ago to recognise artists who have made a significant contribution to Australia's music industry, festival manager Barry Harley said.
"I congratulate Uncle Roger Knox on being named the 2022 Galaxy of Stars inductee," he said.
"He continues to have a fantastic career and he's made a huge impact on Australia's country music scene."
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In 1993, Uncle Roger was awarded two NAIDOC awards - National and NSW Indigenous Artist of the Year and in 2002 also contributed to the album Gamilaraay and Yuwaalaraay Songs - a compilation of language songs.
In 2004, Uncle Roger was inducted into the Country Music Hands of Fame and in 2006 was the recipient of the Jimmy Little Award for Lifetime Achievement in Aboriginal and Torres Strait music at the Deadly Awards.
Uncle Roger was also inducted into the Hall of Fame at the National Indigenous Music Awards in Darwin in 2018.
Mr Harley said Uncle Roger has supported his community through NAIDOC, fundraising efforts and promoting educational activities.
"He is a fantastic artist and ambassador for country music, who has used music and singing as part of his culture to bring people together," he said.
Uncle Roger follows in the footsteps of some country music greats including the iconic Slim Dusty, who was the first ever Galaxy of Stars inductee in the year 2000.
Since then, more than 30 other artists and groups have been inducted including, Troy Cassar-Daley, Lee Kernaghan, Kasey Chambers and John Williamson.
Uncle Roger's plaque will now be installed at the Galaxy of Stars display in the forecourt at the Tamworth Regional Entertainment and Conference Centre.
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