The Butler Band

The Butler Band is renowned in Australian Country Music as one of the premiere touring and recording bands in the nation, affectionately referred to as "Australian Country Music Royalty". The Showband has a pedigree in touring, having travelled to every state and territory, from the cities to regional centres to the remotest indigenous communities for decades. Now the next generation carry on the tradition instilled by founding members, Shaza Leigh Butler OWB & Lindsay Butler OAM.

The Butler Band of 2026 is incredibly talented incorporating Birdie Nichols (USA) alongside Shaza Leigh, Lach Butler and Peggy Gilchrist as the core ensemble accompanied by additional musicians as required.

The Butler Band is a comprehensive show-band with all multi-instrumentalists and vocalists, currently spear-headed by hitmaking singer/songwriters, Shaza Leigh Butler OWB (Bass & Rhythm Guitar) and rising star Birdie Nichols (Mandolin, Viola & Guitar) with Lachlan Butler (Drums & Percussion) and Peggy Gilchrist (Piano & Strings).

Shaza Leigh has released 17 highly successful, solo career albums and as a songwriter, has had over 400 songs released. Shaza has toured with several of Australia’s biggest roadshows, all of her adult life, hitting the road at 20 years of age.  Shaza’s confidence and musical ability makes her one the most accomplished, multi-talented entertainers in country music; inducted into the Australian Country Music Hands of Fame, Wall of Honour and The Women’s Wall of Fame. Her outstanding career success includes 4 National Female Artist of the Year on Radio awards, 4 National Composer, 6 National Songwriter of the Year Awards plus 2 Female Single of the Year crowns at the Traditional Country Music Awards of Australia. Shaza is also the inaugural winner of 2026 Global Songwriter of the Year Award.

Birdie Nichols is a true cowgirl at heart, hailing from the wide-open spaces of Arizona. A passionate award winning country artist and songwriter, she brings the raw, authentic spirit of the West to every note. With a love for Western heritage and storytelling, her music reflects the grit, grace, and timeless traditions that make the West so special. Whether she’s strumming a guitar under a desert sky or writing songs that speak to the soul, Birdie Nichols is dedicated to sharing the stories of cowboys, outlaws, and the beauty of the American West with the world. As a Nashville Recording Artist, Birdie has appeared at many of the famous venues in the Worlds Country Music Capital and also captured the attention of many in Australia's Country Music Capital, Tamworth, to be crowned 2026 CCMA National Champion.

Lach Butler has developed as one of the most outstanding drummers touring and recording in country music. He is one of the most exciting percussionists to rise in Australia in many years, bringing enthusiasm and excitement to every stage he walks on.  His youthful, high energy performances and commanding presence, lifts the band, leaving a lasting impression on all audiences. 

Peggy Gilchrist, Australia’s Queen of the Country Piano, is unquestionably one of the most successful recording and touring keyboardists ever in Australia having spent almost 20 years on the road and recording as an integral member of the orginal concert lineup of The Butler Showband. Peg has released 4 instrumental albums including 2 with the "Master Of Country Guitar", Lindsay Butler OAM. Peg has won Australia’s Musician of the Year 3 times at the Gold Medallion Media Awards and several Instrumentalist of the year awards at various ceremonies including The Traditional Country Music Awards of Australia.

The Butler Band are masters at creating an event to remember; fine music delivered with love and laughter; the perfect recipe for a great experience. The Butlers are divinely unique - Feel their energy and Love their music!

Peggy Gilchrist          Shaza Leigh          Lach Butler          Birdie Nichols