The French Family Band return to Sydney for a special homecoming performance—three years since their last show and now based in Nashville, Tennessee. The band features guitarist and singer Stuie French, born and raised in Tasmania, his wife Camille from New Zealand, and their son Sonny. They will be joined on stage by Geoff Simpson (Bass Guitar), Ben Elliott (Drums) and Michel Rose (Pedal Steel Guitar). Together, The French Family have spent the past six years building an international career, performing at the Grand Ole Opry and touring across the USA. Blending classic country music, heartfelt storytelling, and dazzling musicianship, the French Family Band deliver an authentic, world-class show that resonates with audiences everywhere. This long-awaited Sydney performance promises to be a joyful celebration of music, family, and home.
Anyone who’s afraid that true country music is disappearing from the modern world needs to discover The French Family Band.
Originally from Australia and now based in Nashville, The French Family Band takes inspiration from the country and Western swing icons of decades past, creating and performing American roots music that’s most assuredly vibrant and fully alive. The group appeared on the legendary Grand Ol’ Opry four times in 2023, which is all the proof of life any fan should need. Ringing endorsements from folks like Marty Stuart and Connie Smith don’t hurt, either.
The core lineup of the band is an actual nuclear family that just happens to be incredibly talented. Guitarists/vocalists Stuie French (Dad), Camille French (Mum), and Sonny French (Son) are a clan of uncommon gifts and display skills that rival the stars of country’s Golden Age. Their combined sound is smooth, sweet, and ferocious. Echoes of Chet Atkins, Anne Murray, and Merle Haggard can be detected but their style and spirit are all in the family. Their sophisticated twin guitar harmonies and blended vocals set them apart from practically everyone.
“Stuie and Sonny French have invaded Nashville with the best country guitar playing the town has heard in years" - Marty Stuart
Stuie, Camille, and their three kids moved to Nashville in 2019 after building a strong reputation back home. Over the course of nearly 20 years as the duo Camille and Stuie, they became one of Australia’s best-loved musical acts. They won three Australian Golden Guitar Awards, which are equal to the CMAs, and won another one in 2023 as The French Family Band.
When Covid hit, The French Family Band pivoted from playing traditional gigs to doing Facebook Live concerts from home. This turned out to be a winning strategy that exposed their music to the world. They built a Facebook following of nearly 180,000 people and created a new, global fan base that loves their music. Their outstanding songwriting, fearless playing, and tight family harmonies seem to have an unlimited appeal.
Currently, The French Family Band is working on a much-anticipated new album. When asked about their growing popularity, Stuie said “We think people connect with us because we are a family band who have a common love of harmony (vocals or twin guitars) and old-school country music. Coming from Australia adds a bit of a twist because our influences are so diverse.”
“The French Family Band are simply great musicians and singers who know what a good song and a good sound means! They are as pure as music can be. ” - Tommy Emmanuel CGP
All fans of classic country and Western swing music are destined to flip for The French Family Band. They’re a world-class outfit and true masters of their craft. If you’re smart, you’ll find your dancing boots right now.