Nashville artist and songwriter Shantell Ogden has won two honours at the International Music and Entertainment Association (IMEA) awards: Songwriter of the Year and Americana Song of the Year for Ghosts In The Field. The IMEA Awards are presented annually to recognise the best in independent music and entertainment internationally. “It’s an honour to be recognised at the IMEA awards this year!” said Shantell. “As an artist and songwriter, it means so much to know that the music you are creating is connecting with people. I thank God for music and my family and friends for fueling me with love and support every day in my career. I would also like to thank the IMEA Association, its voting committees and members and the fans for all of their support.” Ghosts In The Field is the title track from Shantell’s latest release, co-written with long-time friend and collaborator Bill DiLuigi. The song was written about growing up on her family’s third generation dairy farm. The entire album, including Ghosts In The Field, was produced by John Willis at Willisoundz in Nashville. Ogden was also recognised for co-writing Me Before You, performed by Marcum Stewart which won Country Song of the Year. The song was written by Stewart, Ogden and DiLuigi, and it became the writing trio’s first Number number one on the European HotDisc chart earlier this year. “I whooped and hollered for Marcum when it was announced,” Shantell grins. “It was so great to see Marcum on stage accepting the award for Country Song of the Year!” “We are grateful to have independent artists like Shantell in our international organisation,” said IMEA President Colt Chambers. “Her musical and song-writing abilities are extraordinary, she is the definitely the real deal!” Photo credit: Chuck Eaton
