NOW-and-THEN-Magazine - COUNTRY NOW and THEN

INTERVIEW #116

w/ Multi-Award Winning Country Artist

'Kendra Kay'

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #116 w/ Multi-Award Winning Country Artist Kendra Kay

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #116 w/ Multi-Award Winning Country Artist Kendra Kay

Photo Credit Melanie Heyst

Kendra Kay

New Single

'Homegrown Heart'

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #116 w/ Multi-Award Winning Country Artist Kendra Kay

(Winnipeg, MB) Country Recording Artist Kendra Kay is set to release new music. The 2 x MCMA Female Artist of the Year winner has had the opportunity to spend more time on her family ranch in the past two years than she has in a long time. As a songwriter, she felt naturally inspired to write about it. This is how her next single Homegrown Heart was born.

“This song is my story – it is inspired by my roots, life, and family. I wrote it to tell the story of who I am, and from the idea that everyone has that little piece of home, it is a universal feeling. When I am not out on the road touring, I am on the road barrel racing or at home working with my horses and that feels like home for me. I know there are so many people out there that will connect with this song and feeling, no matter where they call home,” says Kendra Kay.

When reigning MCMA Fan’s Choice Award winner Kendra Kay was unable to tour with her band, she turned to another passion. She loaded up her horse and hit the road for a different reason. Kendra joined the rodeo circuit which led to winning a Championship Buckle for Barrel Racing!

Kendra Kay continues to grow her audiences as she achieves 1 million global streams, has had music videos placed in rotation on CMT Australia and embarked on tour dates across Western Canada. She hit the road armed with her 5-piece band, playing major events such as the Calgary Stampede, Red River Exhibition Fall Fair, and the Ponoka Stampede to name a few.

When Kendra isn’t working on the ranch, out on the road with her horse or touring with her band she is recording new music, cutting tracks from an impressive list of writers including Carly Pearce, Maren Morris, and Meghan Patrick.

Homegrown Heart was co-written by Tyler Del Pino and produced by award-winning producer Murray Pulver (Doc Walker, The Bros. Landreth). The traditional inspired song was released to major streaming platforms on October 8th.

''Kendra Kay has really made her mark in the country music industry,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine, host for the International Music's Journey Podcast, and radio host on 91.3 FM Bluewater Radio. ''Kendra is a very talented vocalist and she has something special in the way she can connect with the lyrics of a song. She can tell a story that connects with the fans. She delivers that crisp clean vocal with a lot of power holding it nicely in the upper range of her voice. It is great to hear that traditionally inspired sound that she has made modern and relevant from this rising star. She has a very bright future in country radio''.

I had the opportunity to catch up with Kendra before she hits the stage for awards season. You don't want to miss it. To hear my interview with Kendra Kay, click on the link below.

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #116 w/ Multi-Award Winning Country Artist Kendra Kay

Kendra Kay - Homegrown Heart (Official Music Video)

Kendra Kay - Steady (Official Music Video)

Follow Kendra Kay

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #114 w/ CCMA Nominee Country Artist ''JoJo Mason'' New EP Sky Full of Stars Feat. Hit Single 'Broken Umbrella'

JOJO MASON ANNOUNCES SKY FULL OF STARS, HIS NEW EP FEATURING HIT SINGLE “BROKEN UMBRELLA” AVAILABLE OCTOBER 22

INTERVIEW #114

w/ CCMA Nominee Country Artist JoJo Mason

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Country Artist ''JoJo Mason'' New EP Sky Full of Stars Feat. Hit Single 'Broken Umbrella' Listen HERE

JoJo Mason

New EP Sky Full of Stars

LEAD SINGLE “BROKEN UMBRELLA”

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Country Artist ''JoJo Mason'' New EP Sky Full of Stars Feat. Hit Single 'Broken Umbrella' Listen HERE

Sky Full Of Stars, the new EP from multiple CCMA Award-nominated artist JoJo Mason will be released on October 22 via 604 Records. With seven new songs, the third EP from Mason showcases his evolution as an artist while continuing to highlight his fun-loving, upbeat personality. The lead single, “Broken Umbrella” has already been streamed over 780k times and continues to grow in popularity with the recent release of the official music video for the track.

“One of the most important things in life to me is to continue to evolve and grow, as a person and as an artist. I honestly do not think I could be more excited about my new EP. I really feel like I’ve stepped up my game with this one y’all. Pumped for y’all to get these songs in your car, in your headphones, and in your soul!!” – JoJo Mason.

The EP’s title track, ‘Sky Full Of Stars’ is a captivating love song that is special to Mason, one that the musician hopes will have listeners in their feelings, as it did for him, while ‘Think About Us’ is a catchy, upbeat tune of reminiscing about life and its moments that you just can’t forget. Silver linings are the focus in ‘What You Do With It’, where Mason shares that life will try to knock you down but if you can find the silver linings in a situation you’ll find beauty in everything, while “Let Me Down Easy” is a first for Mason who doesn’t usually record breakup songs; the singer felt this heartbreak anthem in his soul. Across the entire EP, JoJo Mason shares vulnerability balanced with new country swag and catchy anthemic themes of love, heartbreak, and life’s little moments.

SKY FULL OF STARS TRACKLIST:

Let Me Down Easy
Wind Up Like This
Sky Full Of Stars
Think About Us
Broken Umbrella
What We Do With It
Hungover Alone

PRE-SAVE SKY FULL OF STARS

ABOUT JOJO MASON: Since breaking into the Canadian country music scene over six years ago, 604 Records recording artist JoJo Mason has been on an incredible journey. In a career already full of highlights, Mason has earned five Top 10 singles, multiple CCMA Award and BCCMA Award nominations, an impressive 28M global streams to date, and more. This past year Mason was presented with his first CRIA gold-certified record for ‘Better On You’; his highest charting and most-streamed single to date, sitting at 6.5M streams and rising. This past August, Mason showcased his ability to capture audiences with his live energy while touring across Canada, including two days at the Lifted Hotel Festival in Vancouver BC, a charity benefit for mental health with all proceeds going toward Lifted, A Dallas Smith Charitable Organization. The conversation around mental health is close to Mason’s heart and prompted the weekly Instagram series hosted by Mason called “Mental Health Mondays” - a conversation with peers and industry professionals. Now, with a focus on his evolution as an artist, Mason is ready to show his fans and the world exactly the kind of act he wants to be. With the release of his latest single ‘Broken Umbrella’ and the news of his forthcoming seven-song EP, Mason is looking forward to getting back on the road again, making memorable connections, and entertaining fans.

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Country Artist ''JoJo Mason'' New EP Sky Full of Stars Feat. Hit Single 'Broken Umbrella' Listen HERE

JoJo Mason - Broken Umbrella (Official Video)

JoJo Mason - Better On You (Official Video)

JoJo Mason - As If We Won't (Official Video)

A Special Release Party Announcement

🔥⚡️HUGE NEWS!!!⚡️🔥 JoJo Mason is throwing a Live and Intimate EP Release Party at The Roxy!! Tickets are first come first serve and they are LIMITED!! Come spend the night with JoJo Mason in person and hear his brand new EP LIVE for the very first time!!! And for those who can’t make it, he will be streaming!!! So don’t sweat you can still spend the night together virtually!!! DETAILS BELOW!! . . . In-Person & Online, Don't miss JoJo Mason's release party for his new EP SKY FULL OF STARS! In-Person: $20 (limited tickets available) https://www.eventbrite.ca/.../rock-the-stage-series-ft...

LIVE @ The Roxy, Vancouver, BC. 19+ Online: Available on Twitch (@jojomasonmusic), Facebook (@RoxyVancouver) and YouTube (@Roxyvancouver) Doors at 7:00 PM PST Show at 8:00 PM PST

The Roxy Vancouver @604recordsinc

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Country Artist ''JoJo Mason'' New EP Sky Full of Stars Feat. Hit Single 'Broken Umbrella' Listen HERE

FOLLOW JOJO MASON

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | TIK TOK

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #113 w/ Country's Hot New Trio ''New Moon Junction'' With Their New Single ''The Other Side Of Goodbye" Check It Out!

INTERVIEW #113

w/ Country's Hot New Trio ''New Moon Junction''

New Single

''The Other Side Of Goodbye''

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #113 w/ Country's Hot New Trio ''New Moon Junction'' With Their New Single ''The Other Side Of Goodbye" Check It Out! Click HERE

New Moon Junction

New Single

''The Other Side Of Goodbye''

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #113 w/ Country's Hot New Trio ''New Moon Junction'' With Their New Single ''The Other Side Of Goodbye" Check It Out! Click HERE

If you’re craving a bit of relief from the apprehension and uncertainty of our troubled times, New Moon Junction has just what you’re looking for.

Country's hot new trio New Moon Junction has released their second single as a group 'The Other Side Of Goodbye' that is already charting top 10 downloads on country radio. Hot off the heals of their debut single 'Real Good Kinda Thing', this incredible trio is delivering exactly what country fans have been waiting for with their dynamic harmonies and killer lyrics that bring us all back home.

With a sound that treads the line seamlessly between new and old school country, the Ontario-based trio of Barb Doran, Tamara Maddalen, and Matt Rogers, have come together at the perfect time to spread a bit of much-needed positive energy around.

There was no doubt that their debut single, ‘Real Good Kinda Thing’, was going to be a huge success with country fans across Canada and with country radio. The stories of life are the common thread with these three solo artists and the fans.

The need for some unbridled positivity was a primary factor in getting New Moon Junction off the ground originally, says Doran: “That was the idea right from the start. Typically, my music is quite serious – even depressing at times – but the great thing about the three of us together is that we very much focus on being positive and upbeat.”

Doran, an established recording artist in her own right, had been looking to make a change in recent years. “I liked the idea of an all-female band, but I wanted to do something different, so I was trying to find two men to work with instead.” Having little success finding the right mix of personalities for the project, however, soon after opening the door to both women and men she found Maddalen and then Rogers. “And when I heard their voices I was immediately like, oh my God, it’s them – no doubt,” she adds.

“We’re all passionate about songwriting, but also about serving the song and supporting each other in that process,” Maddalen adds. “There’s no ego here; we all just want to have fun, grow as songwriters, and see where this takes us.”

The first and most important step in establishing a viable musical partnership is finding like-minded individuals, each of whom brought something unique to the mix that challenges and complements the others; and clearly, New Moon Junction has nailed that part of the equation hands down.

All three are ‘musical lifers’, as Rogers puts it, but what they each have in common outside music is just as important as their shared love of writing, recording, and performing. While vocal and songwriting chops counted heavily in finding the right mix of players for New Moon Junction, being established in the music industry was far less important than being established in life. Period.

The commonality between us only deepens our personal and musical bonds and pushes us forward Rogers says: “That really is the feeling all the way around. We have respect for each other and the project and we’re established people who know what it means to work together with others to get things done.”

That fuels their commitment to the project, to the songwriting and recording process, and to what Maddalen describes as their common goal, “To grow as songwriters and singers, push ourselves out of our comfort zones and get better as artists.”

Although as New Moon Junction they’ve written numerous tunes together, given the challenges of recording safely, they wanted to ensure they’d found the ideal track to kick off the process with Multi-platinum selling producer, songwriter, and mixer Jeff Dalziel (Brett Kissel, Jim Cuddy, Lights, Chantal Kreviazuk).

''New Moon Junction strike it big for a second time with the new single ''The Other Side Of Goodbye'' is something we all can relate to at some point in our lives,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine, host of the International Music's Journey Podcast, and radio host/personality on 91.3 FM Bluewater Radio.

''New Moon Junction brings the authenticity about life and experiences we have all faced with a fresh new sound to country music,'' says Cyr. ''This country trio brings a cool perspective to songwriting and they deliver something truly magical with their harmonies. You are going to love the new single. I can't wait to hear the new music they are set to release in the next few months. If this is any indication of what this trio is capable of, we are in for a real treat in 2022. New Moon Junction is just getting started. Don't forget to check out the fun new music video below.''

To check out my full interview, click on the link below. Don't forget, you can check all the interviews with the artists your love on www.musicsjourney.com. You can also listen to all the podcast interviews on all streaming platforms under Music's Journey Podcast.

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #113 w/ Country's Hot New Trio ''New Moon Junction'' With Their New Single ''The Other Side Of Goodbye" Check It Out! Click HERE

The Other Side of Goodbye

Real Good Kinda Thing Live

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #113 w/ Country's Hot New Trio ''New Moon Junction'' With Their New Single ''The Other Side Of Goodbye" Check It Out! Click HERE

Follow New Moon Junction

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #112 w/ Multiple CCMA and Juno Award Winning Duo 'Doc Walker' New Single 'She Wants What She Wants' Check It Out!

INTERVIEW #112

w/ Multiple CCMA and JUNO Award-Winning

Country Duo ''Doc Walker''

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #112 w/ Multiple CCMA and Juno Award Winning Duo

'Doc Walker' So Much Fun, Listen HERE

Doc Walker

New Single

''She Wants What She Wants''

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #112 w/ Multi-Award Winning Duo 'Doc Walker' Listen HERE

Doc Walker is one of the most recognized Canadian country acts of the past two decades, with 21 Top 10 singles and 26 top 20 singles in total, and eight #1 videos on CMT. The Manitoba natives have won 14 Canadian Country Music Awards with over 40 nominees, were nominated for the 2017 WCMA Country Artist of the Year, the 2017 CCMA Recording Package of the Year (Echo Road), and 2018, 2019, and 2021 Manitoba Country Music Awards. The duo has also been nominated for seven JUNO Awards for Country Album of the Year, including a win for their album Beautiful Life in 2009.

Multiple CCMA and JUNO award-winning Country duo Doc Walker is back, with the release of their new single “She Wants What She Wants” via all streaming platforms. The distinct sound of Doc Walker coming through the airwaves is something many Canadian country fans look forward to. The new single came in hot and it definitely doesn't disappoint. The new track is such a catchy tune and it's a story that most females can relate to. It's about learning how to value ourselves and about being strong.

''It is always amazing to catch up with Doc Walker and it was so much fun to chat and catch up with Chris Thorsteinson to talk all about life, about the new music and everything in between,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine, host for the International Music's Journey Podcast, and radio/host on 91.3 FM Bluewater Radio. ''We have all missed seeing one of the best entertainers in Canadian music so when we see the Doc Walker's tour bus rolling in, we are all smiling.''

In this interview, I will take you down memory lane with some of Doc Walker's greatest hits. We talk about life during the pandemic and the dynamics and changes in the music industry today. Chris Thorsteinson shares many stories about the writing of the songs that we all love from their award-winning albums in the past two decades. Chris shares some amazing tales about walking out on stage to receive their first Juno Award and so many more incredible moments he shared with Dave Wasyliw and the band. Chris shares stories about growing up listening to Elvis Presley and Buddy Holly. There is no doubt that Bob Seger and Waylon Jennings were big influences for Chris's musical journey and the type of music he wanted to record.

Doc Walker is back with their brand new single ''She Wants What She Wants''. There are some really great moments and lots of laughs in this interview that you don't want to miss. You can listen to my interview with Chris Thorsteinson by clicking on the link below.

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #112 w/ Multi-Award Winning Duo 'Doc Walker' Listen HERE

“The idea for the song came to me one morning while I was messing around in the studio. I came across an ‘80s guitar sound and it was like a time machine for me. I started to remember all the great music recorded in the ‘80s and it inspired me to create something similar. The lyrics came from thinking about my three children and realizing that someday my little girl is going to have her heartbroken. It scared me because my job as a father is to protect my children. But I came to the conclusion that life happens and all you can do is try to raise your kids to be strong enough to overcome those situations—and most importantly to have respect for yourself and those around you.” Dave took Chris’ initial demo and reworked it as the song’s producer before handing it over to well-known Canadian producer Eric Ratz for his final mix magic.

(Dave), “We always feel that country music can have some ‘meat on the bones,’ as it is a genre heavily rooted in real-life experiences, trials, and tribulations.”

That attitude has played a big part in Doc Walker’s longevity, along with an overall drive to explore new musical approaches in order to keep their sound fresh. As Dave says, “We just can’t pretend to be something we are not. The fans that have stuck with us I feel have been rewarded with two of our strongest records in recent years, The 8th and Weathervane. And now we can’t wait to show the fans what we’ve been up to!”

As Doc Walker continues to look ahead, they are also celebrating the 20th anniversary of 2001’s Curve, their breakthrough album that spawned the hits “She Hasn’t Always Been This Way” and “Rocket Girl,” both of which remain staples of their live show. Curve garnered the band its first Juno nominations and first CCMA awards, a scenario that has been repeated many times over the ensuing years. Both Chris and Dave point to receiving the 2008 CCMA Fans’ Choice Award at that year’s gala in Winnipeg as a particularly significant moment in their lives.

Dave says, “We’ve had a lot of career highlights, from getting to work with so many amazing writers to playing in every province and territory in Canada, and touring Australia three times. And then there are the personal highlights, like meeting Willie Nelson and playing the Whisky A-Go-Go in L.A. It’s all incredible to look back on; opening for Bon Jovi and having Eric Church open for us—something I doubt he’ll be doing again anytime soon!”

Getting back on tour is something Doc Walker has been eagerly anticipating since the world shut down in early 2020. As Chris says, losing that connection with their audience—albeit temporarily—was something he wasn’t totally prepared to deal with. “I think the lack of live shows has given us time to reflect on the last 25 years and reminded me to never take for granted the support we’ve had from our fans. I also realized how much I missed meat and cheese trays backstage! But seriously, the plan has always been to create music that we are proud of and to spend as much time as we can out on the road playing for the fans.”

As for what the future holds for Doc Walker, Dave says he expects something to come together following their new tour since the band has always fed off the energy of playing live. “That’s how everything starts. The more we play together, the more we talk and plan and write and record. The ‘snowball’ gets big quickly. It has been very difficult not having that outlet for the last couple of years. There is now a heightened appreciation for it because it was taken away as abruptly as if someone had turned off a tap. If there is any silver lining, it’s that it’s served as a reminder of just how much we love making and playing music.”

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #112 w/ Multi-Award Winning Duo 'Doc Walker' Listen HERE

She Wants What She Wants

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #112 w/ Multi-Award Winning Duo 'Doc Walker' Listen HERE

Follow Doc Walker

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW #111 w/ Country Rock Band ''River Town Saints'' Brand New Single ''WHAT YA DOIN’ TONIGHT'' Check It Out!

INTERVIEW # 111

w/ Country Rock Band ''River Town Saints''

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Country Rock Band ''River Town Saints'' Brand New Single

''WHAT YA DOIN’ TONIGHT'' Listen to Full Interview HERE

River Town Saints

Brand New Single

''What Ya Doin Tonight''

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Country Rock Band ''River Town Saints'' Brand New Single

''WHAT YA DOIN’ TONIGHT'' Listen to Full Interview HERE

It’s no secret that River Town Saints have endured more than most bands could handle in a lifetime. The sudden death of one of the founding members, replacing a lead singer, and just when they had all of that figured out and were ready to introduce the world to River Town Saints 2.0, a global pandemic came along.

River Town Saints have a lot to show for the past few years, including millions of YouTube views and Spotify streams, a top 10 hit with their single, “Bonfire”, CCMA nominations, CMAO and Canadian Radio Music Awards, tours with Tim Hicks, Kip Moore and large-scale festivals, their single Long Time Coming reaching the Top 40 and the Stingray group of stations selecting the single as their Trending Track for June/July 2021.

Known for their energetic live show, rich vocal harmonies, and good times, the Saints are just getting started. Throughout the past two years, River Town Saints have headlined or performed at a number of drive-in concerts including the City of Pembroke, Huntsville, Kirkland Lake, Crooks Rapids Country Fest, Manitoulin Island, Winding Roads Big Brothers/Big Sisters charity fundraiser in Port Perry, the Carp Fair to name a few. They have also been instrumental in assisting in raising over $50,000 for mental health and wellness in Ontario.

“What Ya Doing Tonight” is the latest single from River Town Saints. It is a power-driven single that highlights the band’s incredible harmonies and musicianship. It is sure to have diehard fans singing along and winning over scores of new fans.

River Town Saints have been busy writing and recording with producer Sam Guiana (Silverstein) at Studio 21. Look for the band’s full-length album in 2022.

''River Town Saints are an absolute staple in Canadian country music,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine, host for the International Music's Journey Podcast, and radio/host on 91.3 FM Bluewater Radio. ''RTS deliver another hit song with ''What Ya Doing Tonight''. I love the harmonies and the power behind the vocals that Chase Kasner delivers. He has that rich tone with the gritty sound that brings a bluesy-rock feel to every track he sings. It is a very cool song that gives you the good time feels by bringing that stadium anthem background vocals. I absolutely love this song. River Town Saints are riding a high with all the new music they have delivered this year. I can't wait for the new EP in 2022. Life is sweet when the RTS comes up on the radio waves.

I had the pleasure of speaking with lead singer Chase Kasner. We dive into everything RTS. You're going to love it. I always ask the burning questions portion at the end of every interview. Chase has some great answers you don't want to miss, so check out the interview by clicking on the link below.

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Country Rock Band ''River Town Saints'' Brand New Single

''WHAT YA DOIN’ TONIGHT'' Listen to Full Interview HERE

River Town Saints - Long Time Coming [Official]

Slow Kiss

A Little Bit Goes A Long Way - River Town Saints

Gravity (cover)

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Country Rock Band ''River Town Saints'' Brand New Single

''WHAT YA DOIN’ TONIGHT'' Listen to Full Interview HERE

Follow River Town Saints

https://rivertownsaints.com/
https://www.instagram.com/rivertownsaints/
https://www.facebook.com/rivertownsaints
https://twitter.com/rivertownsaints
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCquin0qVpUEJ8zDvQIWkJ2Q

Music's Journey Podcast #INTERVIEW #110 w/ Country Artist ''Devin Cooper'' Releases New Single ''Country Cliche'' Check It Out!

INTERVIEW #110

w/ Country Artist ''Devin Cooper''

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey Podcast #INTERVIEW #110 w/ Country Artist ''Devin Cooper'' Releases New Single ''Country Cliche'' Check It Out! Listen HERE

Devin Cooper

New Single

''Country Cliche''

Music's Journey Podcast #INTERVIEW #110 w/ Country Artist ''Devin Cooper'' Releases New Single ''Country Cliche'' Check It Out! Listen HERE

As the son of a motorcycle shop owner and custom car builder, Devin Cooper’s childhood was filled with opportunities to be creative. Upon exchanging his toolkit for a guitar, Cooper found an unmistakable niche, reimagining the soul of Southern Rock and down-home country. The result is a genre-bending, driven young artist with a world of possibilities.

With the soul of Johnny Cash and the chops of Stevie Ray Vaughan, Devin Cooper’s thoughtful songwriting and thundering live show will leave audiences wanting more. His perfected vocal sneer is full of attitude and delivers on the promise. Offstage, Cooper’s energy is unfiltered positivity and humility – an incredible asset for any musician with ambition.

Devin Cooper's debut single, “Nothing On You”, released in April 2018, received numerous local accolades. Shortly thereafter, he was nominated for Male Artist and Songwriter of the Year (YYC Music Awards); Best Song, Best Video, and Fans Choice (Alberta Country Music Awards), and was the winner of Artist of the Year (Red Deer Entertainment Awards).

2020 began with a sold-out headlining slot in Calgary at the King Eddy. Since 2018, Cooper has performed alongside some of North America’s top talent including Aaron Pritchett, Gord Bamford, and Lou Gramm of Foreigner.

“He’s only 22 years old, and he’s the real deal.” – says Aaron Pritchett.

''Devin Cooper is a jewel here in Canada as a naturally gifted singer-songwriter,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine, host of the International Music's Journey Podcast, and radio host on 91.3 FM Bluewater Radio. ''It is remarkable to see the accomplishments and focus Cooper has. He knows exactly who he is as an artist and his creativity with the vision of what he wants in his music, to the unique sound in genre influences he has delivered in the songs he has released so far, is truly amazing for someone so young. I love the way he sees lyrics and the simplicity of genuine life experiences to vision by capturing and bringing the listener right into the story. People make life complicated. Cooper has a way of delivering the hooks and melodies that capture the simple magic of seeing life through a positive mindset with a silver lining at the end of every day. Cooper knows exactly how to balance work, life, and quality time with family and friends. He is living in the moment and cherishes what he has by creating memories along the way.''

Devin Cooper has been writing a lot of new music for his upcoming debut EP. One of those songs on the new EP is his latest single ''Country Cliche''.

There are many things that come to mind when you hear the phrase “country cliche”, but a cool, country-rock vibing song isn’t one of them...or maybe it may be. Regardless, country singer Devin Cooper keeps things both hilariously stereotypical (with his lyrics) and uber-catchy–while proving his musical depth, especially when it comes to the guitar–in his latest single that oozes care-free summer vibes.

“Country Cliche” takes many of the preconceived notions of living a simple country life and turns them into an anthem meant to help listeners celebrate the simplicity of just having a damn good time.

DEVIN TALKS ABOUT THE SONG:

If you can’t sit down and laugh about some of the things you do, then you’re probably taking life too seriously. Country Cliché is as much of a joke as it is literally the truth. It doesn’t matter how long it’s been since I’ve been back home to hang with my buddies, the same small town country things are happening every weekend: parties by the lake, ripping around town with your buds, shotgunnin’ cheap beer, and staying as far away from the city lights as possible. So, call it a joke, call it a cliche, but it is what it is, and if you’re from a small town or the country, you know what I’m talking about.

Cooper's story is pretty cool...to hear my interview with country artist Devin Cooper, click on the link below! You're going to love it...

Music's Journey Podcast #INTERVIEW #110 w/ Country Artist ''Devin Cooper'' Releases New Single ''Country Cliche'' Check It Out! Listen HERE

Devin Cooper has been honoured to be a contender for the 2021 CCMA Live Innovation Award for my charity event, @RideToRememberYYC in support of @alzcalgary.

For everyone who is a CCMA member, thank you for considering “Ride To Remember” as a place for your vote. This nomination is for every family who has ever lived with, seen, or known someone who has had Alzheimer's. Music is such a positive force in helping folks who are living with Alzheimer's. This event creates awareness and raises funds that bring music programs into homes where folks with Alzheimer's are living.

Thanks to all of the sponsors who make this event possible, for your consideration, and for your continued support as we head into our 3rd year hosting of this event.

The Making Of Good Things: Devin Cooper

Devin Cooper

Devin Cooper - Nothin' on You (Official Music Video)

Devin Cooper - Last Time Last (Live Acoustic)

“ENCORE” is available everywhere now!

ANNIKA's new single ENCORE. Co-writers for this amazing new single are (ANNIKA, Spencer Cheyne - Mixer Aaron Pollock, Devin Cooper, and Chris Yurchuck), my producer (Spencer Cheyne), and the musicians (@russellbroom @kuddstagram @brendanwaterskeys and Spencer Cheyne) for making this song possible!

Thanks for bringing this song to life and delivering a world-class performance on it, Annika and Brett Kissel.

Check it out!

https://bfan.link/encore

Music's Journey Podcast #INTERVIEW #110 w/ Country Artist ''Devin Cooper'' Releases New Single ''Country Cliche'' Check It Out! Listen HERE

To check out my full interview, click on the link below. Don't forget that you can check all the interviews with the artists you love on www.musicsjourney.com. You can also listen to all the podcast interviews on all streaming platforms under Music's Journey Podcast.

Follow Devin Cooper

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Country Artist 'Tracy Millar' A True Storyteller With Her Latest Single 'Cowboy's Last Ride'

INTERVIEW

w/ Country Artist 'Tracy Millar'

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Country Artist 'Tracy Millar' A True Storyteller With Her Latest Single 'Cowboy's Last Ride' To Hear The Interview, Click HERE

Tracy Millar

New Single

'Cowboy's Last Ride'

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Country Artist 'Tracy Millar' A True Storyteller With Her Latest Single 'Cowboy's Last Ride' To Hear The Interview, Click HERE

Cowboy’s Last Ride is a metaphorical account of a man who lives a life he loves, at the cost of love. It is a descriptive modern-day cowboy song that will pull at your heartstrings, all the while painting a canvas in your mind of his journey.

As you listen to the story, you feel his passion and his pain. You learn about the cost of his choices.

Beautifully produced & arranged by multiple award winner Bart McKay, this song will resonate with many. Not just the cowboys.

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Country Artist 'Tracy Millar' A True Storyteller With Her Latest Single 'Cowboy's Last Ride' To Hear The Interview, Click HERE

Loretta’s Moonshine (Official Video)- Tracy Millar

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Country Artist 'Tracy Millar' A True Storyteller With Her Latest Single 'Cowboy's Last Ride' To Hear The Interview, Click HERE

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Multi-Platinum Selling Country Group 'The Road Hammers' Back At It With Their New EP Out Now!

INTERVIEW #107

w/ Multi-Platinum Selling Country Group

'The Road Hammers'

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Multi-Platinum Selling Country Group 'The Road Hammers' Back At It With Their New EP Listen HERE

The Road Hammers

New EP

'Back At It'

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Multi-Platinum Selling Country Group 'The Road Hammers' Back At It With Their New EP Listen HERE

Back At It is a fitting title for this new EP as The Road Hammers had taken a bit of a hiatus before releasing some new music and now, they are back in a big way. The new EP is classic Hammers with some new twists, packed with some surprise guest appearances.

The new EP Back At It delivers what fans have come to expect from The Road Hammers, says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine, host of the International Music's Journey Podcast, and radio host on 91.3 FM Bluewater Radio. ''This 6 track EP went #1 as the top-selling country album via Open Road Recordings and radio the first week upon its release. The Hammers always bring much-anticipated excitement for their music with amazing featured guests and they did not disappoint with the new EP Back At It.''

The Hammers release music only when the time is right. They have always been very strategic in their new music releases. After being on a hiatus during the lengthy pandemic break, the band hit the stage at the Calgary Stampede for their first live performance. The Road Hammers were among artists like Dean Brody, Aaron Pritchett, Jess Moskaluke, Brett Kissel, The Hunter Brothers, The Reklaws, Devin Cooper, and more playing the Calgary Stampede’s raucous Nashville North stage.''

''Playing hard and bringing the rock, it’s kind of what we do,” McCoy says.

''It also fits into the general feel-good, party vibe of the EP, which also includes Stay Wild, a celebratory, mid-tempo duet with Tim Hicks, and All My Friends, which had Jason McCoy, Clayton Bellamy, and Chris Byrne recruiting a gang of notable singers, including Terri Clark, Dan Davidson, Jason Blaine, Cory Marks, Aaron Pritchett, and Big Sugar’s Gordie Johnson, to collaborate on a hard-rocking ode to hanging out with your pals on a Friday night.

On the EP release, lead vocalist Jason McCoy shares,

“I think we all want to get ‘Back at It’ – back to traveling, new adventures, and back to live shows! The new EP is classic Hammers with some new twists, packed with some surprise guest appearances. We can’t wait to share this with y’all!”

The lead track and first single released, “The Boys Are Back At It,” (written by Deric Ruttan, Jason Blaine, Clayton Bellamy) is the one that wants to get you on your feet and pump your fists – to “turn it up and throw down.

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Multi-Platinum Selling Country Group 'The Road Hammers' Back At It With Their New EP Listen HERE

The Road Hammers - The Boys Are Back At It

“All My Friends” (written by Jason McCoy, Clayton Bellamy, Chris Byrne, Dan Davidson) is a collaborative track featuring vocals from Terri Clark, Dan Davidson, Jason Blaine, Cory Marks, Aaron Pritchett, and Gordie Johnson. It’s fun to listen to and very upbeat. You’ll want to “kick it up” and hang out with all your friends to “make some noise” when you hear this one.

All My Friends

“Give’r” (written by Jason McCoy, Tim Hicks, Pavel Dovgalyuk) was the track out at country radio on August 10 and it’s 2:32 of pure enjoyment. Kicking up your heels to this one is a must! To hear this one at live performance would just get the crowd taking “it over the top!

The Road Hammers - Give'r

“Stay Wild” (written by Jason McCoy, Clayton Bellamy, Chris Byrne, Tim Hicks, Jeff Coplan) features Tim Hicks and is a bit more laid back. The harmonies between Hicks and The Road Hammers are flawless. It’s great to hear Hick’s voice on this track. It’s one that you’ll want to listen to over and over again.

Stay Wild

“Down Down Down” (written by (Jason McCoy, Clayton Bellamy, Chris Byrne, Dan Davidson) brings you right back to that southern country rock that the Road Hammers are known for. The banjo playing in the background makes this a classic Road Hammers tune. You can definitely party down to this song.

“Hillbilly Disco” (written by Jason McCoy, Clayton Bellamy, Chris Byrne, Jeff Coplan) features Meghan Patrick. This one was released on July 23 and for those of you that lived in the disco era … well … let’s go right back to the ’70s. It’s disco with an updated twist. For those who didn’t, this tune will make you understand why disco was so popular and why the dance floor was always packed!

Back At It Track List:
The Boys Are Back At It (3:03) All My Friends (3:03)
Stay Wild (feat. Tim Hicks) (3:20)
Down Down Down (3:35)
Give’r (2:32)
Hillbilly Disco (feat. Meghan Patrick) (2:37)

''Back At It'' is an EP that will be playing on everyone's playlist for a very long time. It is going to be hard for fans to pick a favorite between these 6 tracks. I feel there is a hockey rally anthem that is going to be played this winter from this killer EP. You need to hear it all and you decide what your favorites are.

''The Road Hammers are Canadian country royalty and a staple in live music here in Canada,'' says Kim Cyr.

I had a great time talking with Jason McCoy for this interview. To hear the full interview, click on the link below.

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Multi-Platinum Selling Country Group 'The Road Hammers' Back At It With Their New EP Listen HERE

Sawback Brewing Co. and The Road Hammers bring you, Hammer Down Lager! CANS are Available NOW at select stores in AB!

Exclusively available ON TAP at Sawback Taproom... Hammer Down, tip it up! Summer ‘21 is about to get a whole lot tastier.

Follow The Road Hammers

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Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Multi-Award Winning Entertainer 'Tim Hicks' Summer Isn't Over Yet...Campfire Troubadour The Backyard Party Continues!

INTERVIEW

w/ Multi-Platinum Award Winning Country Artist

''Tim Hicks''

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Multi-Award Winning Entertainer 'Tim Hicks' Summer Isn't Over Yet...Campfire Troubadour The Backyard Party Continues! Click HERE

Tim Hicks – Photo by Dustin Rabin

Tim Hicks

Latest EP

'Campfire Troubadour'

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Multi-Award Winning Entertainer 'Tim Hicks' Summer Isn't Over Yet...Campfire Troubadour The Backyard Party Continues! Click HERE

Multi-Platinum award-winning entertainer Tim Hicks released his latest Campfire Troubadour, a seven-song collection available May 21st via Open Road Recordings. While Hicks has cemented deep roots in Canadian country music, his genesis as an artist began with humble beginnings, charming bar patrons nightly with a vast repertoire of solo acoustic material designed to please a crowd. Campfire Troubadour pulls from this model, reimagining Hicks’ chart-topping sound for a more intimate setting, as much at home in a fireside jam as it would be in the unassuming rooms he once played.

Take for instance lead track ‘Slow’ – injecting harmonica and gang vocals reminiscent of unabashed late-night singalongs with friends, setting the tone for an EP suggesting Hicks’ diversity as an artist knows no bounds. The reinterpretation of current single ‘The Good, The Bad And The Pretty’ is a stripped back offering to pay homage to the fans and experiences that shaped Hicks as a person, artist, and performer, while ‘Last Can’ delivers on his beloved tongue-in-cheek writing, sure to take the backyard party well past the last call.

‘The Good, The Bad and The Pretty’ is the first new release from the four-time JUNO Award nominee and multi-Platinum selling CCMA Award winner since the June 2020 release of his Wreck This EP, which garnered his second #1 single with ‘No Truck Song’. His top 5 single ‘Loud’ from his album New Tattoo; which also featured his first #1 hit ‘What A Song Should Do’; was licensed to the NHL for the 2020 Stanley Cup Playoffs and was chosen as the goal song for team Canada during the 2020 IIHF World Junior Hockey Championships.

Delivering track after track with unparalleled quality and consistency, Hicks’ ascent as an elite chart-topping act since making his country label debut in 2013 is undeniable. His vast catalog of highly praised releases including Throw Down, 5:01, 5:01+, Shake These Walls, New Tattoo, and Wreck This, have earned the four-time JUNO Award nominee and CCMA Award winner three PLATINUM selling singles, nine GOLD singles, one GOLD album, and eighteen Top 10 radio hits, in addition to over 87 million collective streams, multiple sold-out headlining dates and back to back national tours. Hicks, now a three-time consecutive winner, was also the first recipient of the Nielsen Compass Award, which recognizes an artist for the most total content plays including streams, single and album sales as well as total social media following.

''Tim Hicks brings something really special with his lastest EP Campfire Troubadour,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine, host of the International Music's Journey Podcast, and radio/host on 91.3 FM Bluewater Radio. ''Songs like Horses and Hearts and Annaleigh bring that real love of classic country home for us all. ''

I got the chance to catch up with Tim to talk about this special EP Campfire Troubadour and how the pandemic inspired him to write some new music and finish songs that he had already started that he really wanted to showcase at the right time for the right project. Campfire Troubadour was the right project for these songs.

''It's all about family right now and taking the time to make the memories with the ones we care about the most,'' says Hicks. ''Getting together and remembering the good times, making some new ones with friends and family is what it is all about and Campfire Troubadour is that for me. I love camping with my family and spending time in the great outdoors. The songs on this 6 track EP are about family, friends, and having a good time. Sitting around the campfire is something both Amanda and I love to do with the kids. We do it every year.''

Hicks talks about paying attention to what he was really missing out on the road touring. He didn't realize the gravity of what it takes to care for the family meals, the day-to-day life of looking after the children, the house and all that his wife, Amanda does on a daily basis while being a first responder as a nurse on the front lines. ''

''I look at things much differently going through all of this in the past year and a half,'' says Hicks. "I have always been out on the road performing most of my life and when the world stopped and I had that time to be here for my family on the day-to-day schedules and things that needed to be done, I learned how tough that really is. I sure learned in a hurry the things that I am not so good at. Laughs... I am good at fixing things and looking after my family through my music but not so good at cooking and household chores.''

I talked to Hicks about the special songs he chose for this latest EP and what it meant to him to finally put this one together with music that means a lot to him. To check out my interview with Tim Hicks, click on the link below.

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Multi-Award Winning Entertainer 'Tim Hicks' Summer Isn't Over Yet...Campfire Troubadour The Backyard Party Continues! Click HERE

Tim Hicks - Slow

Tim Hicks - The Good, The Bad and The Pretty (Acoustic Live)

Tim Hicks - Annaleigh (Acoustic Live)

Tim Hicks - Horses and Hearts (Lyrics)

Tim Hicks - Don't Look Back in Anger (Lyrics)

Tim Hicks - No Truck Song

Campfire Troubadour Track Listing

1. Slow

2. Horses and Hearts

3. The Good, the Bad and the Pretty (Campfire Edition)

4. Annaleigh

5. Last Can

6. Don't Look Back In Anger

7. After All These Beers

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Multi-Award Winning Entertainer 'Tim Hicks' Summer Isn't Over Yet...Campfire Troubadour The Backyard Party Continues! Click HERE

FOLLOW TIM HICKS

WEBSITE | FACEBOOK | INSTAGRAM | TWITTER | YOUTUBE

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Country Star Brian John Harwood His New Single ''Make You Mine'' ft. Clayton Bellamy Is Climbing the Charts

INTERVIEW

w/ Country Star 'Brian John Harwood'

''Make You Mine''

Feat. Clayton Bellamy

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine