THIS YEAR’S Airlie Beach Festival of Music has some great performers including Andy Penkow, a four-time CMAA Golden Guitar Award Nominee (including Album of the Year 2025).
The Australian singer/songwriter, known for his country blues, folk and contemporary style of music, has released four studio albums, with his latest album ‘Shades on Me’ reaching No.2 on the Australian ARIA Charts and No.1 on the Australian Independent Records (AIR) Charts.
His latest single ‘Counting Clouds’ is a collaboration with former X-Factor contestants Mak & Shar and adds to a long list, with 13 of Andy’s singles reaching No.1 across multiple Australian Country Radio Charts.
The ‘vibrant and feelgood’ new single was released on July 11, and blends Mak & Shar’s infectious harmonies with Andy’s rich country-blues sound, delivering an uplifting anthem.
The collaboration was sparked by a mutual friend, who recognised the creative synergy between the trio and encouraged them to connect.
“From the moment we jumped on that first Zoom call, we just clicked,” Mak said.
“It felt natural—like we’d been working together for years.”
He said ‘Counting Clouds’ offered listeners a much-needed break from the chaos of the modern world.
Driven by breezy melodies and heartfelt lyrics, the track celebrates the joy found in life’s simple pleasures.
“For me, ‘Counting Clouds’ was a song we wanted to write for everyone,” Mak continued.
“It’s about letting go of stress and remembering to appreciate the little things—sometimes, we all just need to kick back and count clouds.”
Andy Penkow, known for his soulful songwriting and more introspective material like his recent single ‘Visiting Hours’ will be performing at this year’s Airlie Beach Festival of Music.
He welcomed the chance to create something more upbeat.
“This was such a fun project,” Andy said.
“Working with Mak & Shar was effortless. They brought incredible energy and creativity to the table, and the whole process was collaborative and inspiring.”
The single ‘Counting Clouds’ is now available on all major streaming platforms.
This year’s Airlie Beach Festival of Music includes an impressive line-up of musicians over three massive days (November 7 to 9, 2025) with more than 50 artists performing in 15 venues across Airlie Beach.
The stellar performers include Pete Murray, Jessica Mauboy, The Screaming Jets, Diesel, the Black Sorrows, the Choir Boys and Andy Penkow, amongst many, many more great acts.
Visit Airlie Beach Festival of Music | 7th 8th 9th November 2025 for all the lowdown and to book tickets (three-day and day passes available).
