NOW-and-THEN-Magazine - MUSIC'S JOURNEY PODCAST

w/ Canadian Country Artist 'Jason Benoit'

New Single 'A Lot About A Little'

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Celebrated Award-Winning Country Artist 'Jason Benoit' Listen HERE

CELEBRATED COUNTRY ARTIST

JASON BENOIT

RELEASES 90’S INSPIRED NEW SINGLE

“A LOT ABOUT A LITTLE”

PRODUCED BY MULTIPLE CCMA AND CMAO PRODUCER OF THE YEAR WINNER

JEFF DALZIEL (JDZL)

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Celebrated Award-Winning Country Artist 'Jason Benoit' Listen HERE

APRIL 2021 (Toronto, ON) – Teaming up with multiple CCMA and CMAO Canadian Country Producer of the Year, Jeff Dalziel (who has worked with Washboard Union, David Boyd Janes, Brett Kissel, Meghan Patrick, Nice Horse, and Dan Davidson to name a few), Jason Benoit takes on a new direction with the release “A Lot About A Little”, a song that draws on inspiration from beloved 90’s country music. Following a year where many artists have had to find new ways of connecting with fans and suddenly finding themselves with more time, Jason had some soul-searching moments where he wanted to be true to the music he loved. Obsessed with the 90’s Country music he grew up on and that good old honkytonk feel, Jason finally decided to follow that passion and record a single with influences from his favourite records.

Jason and his team reached out to Jeff whom they felt would be the perfect fit for this project. Jason and Jeff previously worked together on one of Jason’s recent singles, the Conway Twitty cover “Slow Hand” which has now amassed over 1.2 million streams. Upon discussing the project Jeff immediately knew the direction in which Jason was feeling. Jeff reached out to good friend and country artist Aaron Goodvin who had written the perfect song that Jason was looking for. As soon as the team heard the demo version of the song, a session was booked with world-class band members from the Jeff Dalziel team and “A Lot About A Little” was born. The song is written by singer/songwriter, Aaron Goodvin (Written for Luke Bryan and Johnny Reid), Greg Bates (written for Montgomery Gentry, Terri Clark and the Nashville TV Show) and Faren Rachels.

''Jason Benoit continues to prove himself as an artist to watch in Canadian country,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief at NOW and THEN Magazine and host for the International Music's Journey Podcast. Benoit has discovered a unique sound that he can identify with. This new music is exactly what he has always been looking for with his new single A Lot About A Little. Benoit has opened himself up to a whole new level in his artistry working with Jeff Dalziel. Benoit spoke about working on his vocal range and the exercises that Jeff would have him do. It is pretty cool. The end result is magic. I believe Jason is going to be releasing a whole new side of himself with his songs set to release this year. The fans are absolutely going to love them.''

''I feel now more than ever that I can release the music I always wanted to make,'' says Benoit. ''I am not making music for the hit record anymore. I am making music that I really resonate with personally. I am more grounded today than I have ever felt in the direction I want my music to go and it feels great to be putting out the songs that I hope my fans want to hear. I knew the moment I heard A Lot About A Little that it was exactly the kind of song that I have been searching for and waiting to record. It was perfect for me. What Jeff did with that song and what he did helping me to hit notes that I just didn't know I was capable of helped me to feel more confident than ever before. I have several songs that I am ready to record that I am really proud of. I am hoping to work with Jeff Dalziel on these ones as well.''

''Benoit is one of those rare artists you meet that just sticks to your heart,'' says Cyr. ''I am really excited about Benoit and this new junction in the road that he is taking. He has hit that sound and music that is going to take him far. Benoit is going to keep on climbing the charts with this kind of music.''

To hear all the cool stories about recording the new video and how it was shot, you need to hear the full interview HERE.

ABOUT JASON BENOIT

No stranger to the Country music scene Benoit's accolades continue to flourish, a recent ECMA win for Fan's Choice Video of the Year with "Slow Hand", a top 10 hit ‘Gone Long Gone’ reaching certified GOLD status, becoming a Top 3 finalist in SiriusXM’s Top of the Country competition, and touring across the country hitting some of the biggest festival stages such as Cavendish Beach Music Festival, Boots & Hearts, the Calgary Stampede, and CCMA Fan Village. In a time where artists have been finding new ways to interact with their audience, Benoit has spent his time in isolation reconnecting with fans via his weekly Friday Night Lockdown live sessions on Facebook, reaching over 15K fans with this series. Undoubtedly becoming a country favourite, Benoit has seen his streaming numbers reach over 7 million streams. Benoit continues to prove himself as an artist to watch in Canadian country.

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Celebrated Award-Winning Country Artist 'Jason Benoit' Listen HERE

Jason Benoit - A Lot About a Little (Official Music Video)

Jason Benoit - Gone Long Gone (LYRIC VIDEO)

Jason Benoit - Never Stop Loving You (Audio)

Jason Benoit - Cold Day Comin' (Official Music Video)

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Celebrated Award-Winning Country Artist 'Jason Benoit' Listen HERE

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Music's Journey Podcast Interview w/ Country's Hottest New Trio ''New Moon Junction'' Debut Single 'Real Good Kinda Thing' Listen HERE

w/ Country's Hottest New Trio

''New Moon Junction''

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey Podcast Interview w/ Country's Hottest New Trio ''New Moon Junction'' Debut Single

'Real Good Kinda Thing' Listen HERE

Country's Hottest New Trio

New Moon Junction

Debut Single

''Real Good Kinda Thing''

Music's Journey Podcast Interview w/ Country's Hottest New Trio ''New Moon Junction'' Debut Single

'Real Good Kinda Thing' Listen 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.

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’s no doubt that their debut single, ‘Feel Good Kinda Thing’, does that and then some; all while expressing the joy and creative satisfaction these three solo artists have found together since they first got together in late 2019.

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.

Each of them has spent years on and off stage honing their chops individually – Doran and Maddalen as country and Americana solo recording artists, respectively, and Rogers as a journeyman songwriter and live performer. But all have lives and responsibilities outside of music. “We have a professional mindset. We’ve all put forth effort in the regular world and the music world,” Doran says. “Everyone treats their responsibilities within the band seriously, because they’re old hands at taking responsibility for themselves and others.”

That commonality only deepens their personal and musical bond and pushes them 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.”

Granted, the pandemic has presented some challenges to momentum, but Doran, Maddalen, and Rogers, haven’t let that stop them from finding ways to work together, and – after Rogers posted the raw material for what would ultimately become ‘Feel Good Kinda Thing – getting their first single finished and down while it was good and fresh.

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).

From the moment the song started coming together, they all knew they had something special on their hands. “I was on a work trip last summer and sat down in my hotel room and just started playing,” Rogers says. “I wrote half a verse and half a chorus and posted it, and immediately everyone was like, that’s great.”

“Matt’s omitting some important details; as men typically do,” Doran adds, laughing. “After he posted that little clip, Jeff Dalziel called him immediately and said, ‘That’s the one. Let’s get it finished’. So that’s what we did.”

After polishing the song and recording rough vocals, Dalziel brought them into his home studio individually to record the final track, Maddalen explains, adding that Dalziel’s ability to draw the best performances out of them, as well as the creative freedom he gave them to put their individual stamp on the song vocally, truly enhanced the final recording.

The result is a rarity, a track that sounds and feels like it’s been recorded live off the floor and in the moment – an off-the-cuff quality that’s hard to accomplish even when everyone is in the studio together – a testament to Dalziel’s talents in the studio, and Doran, Maddalen and Rogers’ uniquely striking blend of voices.

Although Doran, Maddalen, and Rogers have taken distinct paths musically and personally in establishing their voices as songwriters and performers, it’s clear that New Moon Junction have a common goal – to celebrate the moments that make life worth living and encourage their listeners to do the same, which, in and of itself, is a ‘Feel Good Kinda Thing'.

''I had the chance to chat with Tamara, Barb and Matt about forming the new trio and how important it was that the ideas behind the project for New Moon Junction were cohesive across the board,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine and host of the International Music's Journey Podcast. ''New Moon Junction is the real deal. The experience that the three artists bring to the table along with the understanding of who they are individually and the work it takes to make a trio produce quality music successfully is half the battle but listening to the transitions in the vocals is magic. For three artists to get together and create the kind of harmony that takes years to accomplish, you know you have something special in this new trio called, 'New Moon Junction.''

Cyr: Can you tell us what the writing process has been for you guys on this project?

Tamara: I think we are really productive every time we get together and it has had its challenges when we started in 2019. The first time we got together we did a writing session for about 3-4 hours and we got a song written. It is the single we have just released. It is the song that got Jeff Dalziel's attention. We all have the same mindset in wanting to be productive with the time we have especially with the challenges that COVID has presented to us. It is so important that we make the best out of what we have and doing some of the sessions virtually, although not the same, but still very productive in getting what we need to get done. Each time gets us further and further along. What started out as a small body of work has turned out to be a large number of songs that have great potential. The writing has gone really well. We have four songs that are done and are performance-ready. We are all like-minded in that sense. We really want to help each other grow and pushing forward. The more we do it and the more we write the quality of songs we have to release. You touched on the harmonies too. We never preplanned the harmonies at all. We didn't know if we were all going to sit into the pocket. Sometimes the song dictates that. I think we are getting stronger and stronger with every performance. I love the sound.

Cyr: Barb, what is the weirdest quirk you have?

Barb: Hmmm, well my current weirdest quirk is that I have a really strange facial twitch going on! I don't know what is happening but I haven't been able to figure out why it keeps happening. Every now and then there is a spot in my cheek that looks like a ghost is sticking a finger in it...

''The magic that multi-award-winning producer Jeff Dalziel does in a studio with each of these artists to create that perfect sound for the debut single ''Real Good Kinda Thing'' is amazing,'' says Cyr. ''Taking a peek inside the studio sessions with this master producer is really interesting when you hear what each artist has to say. From the world-class musicians to the catchy lyrics, and the incredible harmonies that are pitch-perfect, you have the song that uplifts us all making you want to get up, get in your car, roll down the windows, and crank the music. It is the perfect song at just the right time.''

There is just way too much fun to miss in this interview so you don't want to miss a thing. To listen to the full interview, click HERE

Real Good Kinda Thing_Live

Music's Journey Podcast Interview w/ Country's Hottest New Trio ''New Moon Junction'' Debut Single

'Real Good Kinda Thing' Listen HERE

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Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Country Artist ''Abby Stewart'' Delivering A Knock-Out Punch With Her New Single 'Bless Your Heart' Check Out Full Interview HERE

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Country Artist ''Abby Stewart'' Delivering A Knock Out Punch With Her New Single 'Bless Your Heart'

Music's Journey Podcast
INTERVIEW
w/ Canadian Country's Rising Star 'Abby Stewart'
Hosted by Kim Cyr
Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine
www.musicsjourney.com
https://www.nowandthenmagazine.com

Abby Stewart

New Single

''Bless Your Heart''

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Country Artist ''Abby Stewart'' Delivering A Knock-Out Punch With Her New Single 'Bless Your Heart' Check Out Full Interview HERE

Abby Stewart is a 20-year-old singer/songwriter from Kingston, Ontario. A true Canadian girl, she fishes, plays hockey and softball but feels most at home on the music stage achieving some pretty impressive success.

In 2014, she opened for Hunter Hayes on his Tattoo Your Name Canadian Tour dates along with Dan + Shay, and has had the privilege of singing duets with Dean Brody, Dallas Smith and Aaron Pritchett. She has opened for many Canadian talents, most recently Cold Creek County at her hometowns Rockin' In the Square, Brett Kissel in Toronto at the CNE and in Ottawa on his Ice, Snow and 30 Below Tour, as well as for Tebey, Michelle Wright, Emerson Drive, Tim Hicks, and many others.

She has had the great pleasure of performing at some of Canada’s biggest fairs and music festivals, including Boots and Hearts Music Festival, Havelock Country Jamboree, Ottawa Bluesfest, Trackside Music Fest and several more.

Abby released her EP "Firsts", in 2015 which included her radio release “I’m Still Faster”, followed by her first music video, which now has over half a million views on YouTube. In 2017 she collaborated with Invictus Entertainment, Big Star Records and released a duet entitled "What If They're Wrong?" to national Canadian radio which was either added or featured on 22 stations from coast to coast.

Here are just some of the highlights from singing competitions and band performances.

2009 - Kingston Fall Fair Country Music Showdown Jr. Division - 3rd place
2010 - Kingston Fall Fair Country Music Showdown Jr. Division - 1st place
2010 - The Tweed Fair - 1st 2010 - Frontenac Old Time Music Championship - 1st
2011 - Toronto's CNE's Rising Star Competition - 2nd
2011 - Kingston Fall Fair Country Music Showdown Open Division - 2nd
2011 - Frontenac Old Time Music Championship - 1st
2011 - Napanee's Cangig Festival - 1st
2011 - Perform at the Marmora Jamboree
2011 - Perform at the K -Town Countdown to New Years Eve at the K-Rock Centre
2012 - Kingston Fall Fair Country Music Showdown Open Division - 1st
2012 - Voice of the Rideau Singing Competition - 1st
2012 - Perform at the Tweed Stampede and Jamboree
2012 - Perform at the Marmora Jamboree
2012 - Perform at the K -Town Countdown to New Years Eve At the K-Rock Centre
2013 - First radio release "She's Thinking with Her Heart" written by Steve Wilkinson of Grammy-nominated and Juno Award winners, The Wilkinson's
2013 - Perform at the Cangig Music Festival
2013 - Perform at the Marmora Jamboree
2013 - Perform at the Scarecrow Festival
2013 - Headliner, at the K -Town Countdown to New Years Eve At the K-Rock Centre
2013 - Headliner, Country Music in the Park Summer Series
2013 - Boots & Hearts Music Festival, Sirius XM Emerging Artist Showcase (1 of 8 selected from across Canada)
2014 - Perform "Bounty" with Canadian Country Music Star and Juno Winner Dean Brody
2014 - RBC Bluesfest "She's the One" (1 of 8 selected from across Canada)
2014 - Sterling Fair opening for Tebey and Brett Kissel
2014 - Havelock Country Music Jamboree
2014 - Opening for Hunter Hayes and Dan + Shay on the Canadian dates of "The Tattoo (Your Name) Tour"
2015 - First music video production of "I'm Still Faster" with over 210,000 views on Youtube
2015 - First EP entitled "Firsts" a compilation of the 5 original songs she has written or co-written
2015 - Spencerville Stampede/Capital Country Music Fest opening for Brett Kissel and Emerson Drive, 1 hour set
2015 - Boots and Hearts Music Festival
2016 - Opening for Tim Hicks at the Garrison Family Fun Fest
2016 - Hometown Country Celebration with The Abrams and The River Town Saints
2017 - Winner of Brett Kissel's National contest Ice, Snow & 30 Below opening for him in Ottawa, Ontario
2017 - Headliner at DIFA Music Festival, Brockville Ontario
2017 - 103 Country Kamloops BC's Birthday Bash opening for Aaron Pritchett and Cory Marquardt
2017 - Headliner at Stage for Change in Woodstock Ontario
2017 - Chill On the Hill at Fort Henry with Rascal Flats, Meghan Patrick and a duet with Aaron Pritchett
2017 - Havelock Country Music Jamboree
2017 - Opening for Brett Kissel at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) in Toronto Ontario
2017 - Duet with Beamer Wigley "What If They're Wrong?" to Canadian national radio with Invictus Entertainment
2017 - National radio promotion of "What If They're Wrong?"
2017 - Shooting "What If They're Wrong music video in Toronto Ontario
2017 - Perform "Nothing But Summer" with CCMA winner Dallas Smith
2018 - Trackside Music Festival, 1 hour set
2018 - Rocking the Square opening for Cold Creek County
2018 - Tweed Stampede, 1 hour set
2018 - Joshua Bates Centre, headliner 2 hour set
2019 - Inaugural YGK Emerging Musicians Competition Winner (1 of 6 winners)
2019 - Ottawa RBC Bluesfest, 1 hour set
2019 - CTV Morning Live to promote Ottawa RBC Bluesfest
2021 - Release of "Bless Your Heart" to Canadian county radio and official music video

Whether you hear her at an intimate cafe or a massive music festival, you will be amazed at that perfect pitch and powerful voice coming from such a young rising star.

''You can't help but be pretty impressed with Canadian Country's Rising Star Abby Stewart,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine and host of the International Music's Journey Podcast. ''Stewart is such a bright light in country music today. She knew her way around a song and how to tap into that singer/songwriter storytelling magic very early on in her life as you can see with her tremendous success on so many different stages with the top of the Canadian Country Superstars roster already. Now that is impressive,'' says Cyr.

''It's nice to strip back all of that success and hear Stewart talk about how much she missed by being in the music industry so young and then to see the flip side of the business and being so grateful for all that she has accomplished. She has been on stage with some of the best and she is just getting started. The stars are the limit for this young powerhouse. The songwriting and navigation around a song and delivering a vocal with the emotion and understanding of the lyrics takes years of practice. Stewart gets every bit of that and what it takes to achieve this with hard work. Abby Stewart is without a doubt, a star in the making,'' says Cyr.

''Abby Stewart is really connected to her home in Kingston and all the places that support local artists like the market square. She has such a huge fan base within the Kingston music scene. It all starts at the local singing competitions, festivals, and fairs...Abby got out there performing her songs and writing every chance she could. Fans are in love with her beautiful vocals and now we are seeing the next junction in her musical journey. She is all grown up and better than ever! I can't wait for you to hear this interview... Stewart opens up about what was hard for her being in the spotlight so young, missing out on doing things that young girls would be doing, and then being able to appreciate and love what she has learned from starting so young. She has a great head on her shoulders and she appreciates the incredible opportunities she has had to build relationships with so many world-class producers and songwriters in Nashville and in Canada. To have the opportunity to work with Sharp9Music, Bill Miller and the multi-award-winning producer Jeff Dalziel is just the icing on the top of the cake,'' says Cyr.

''Jeff Dalziel is the most talented, caring award-winning producer that performs magic with every artist he works with,'' says Cyr. ''I really want to be a fly on the wall for one of these recording sessions. Wait, let me manifest that thought, not to be a fly on a wall but to be invited to watch and film a recording session with Jeff to see what this world-class producer can do. Pray for me and maybe I will get that invite and show you the magic that happens in the studio with Dalziel. Artists go in one way and come out a completely transformed artist with an understanding of exactly what they are capable of. It's insane how he can read an artist and know exactly what to do with their vocals and mold that song into a masterpiece,'' says Cyr.

To hear what Jeff Dalziel taught Abby Stewart in the studio during production on her new single ''Bless Your Heart'' and all the cool things she shares in my burning questions segment of the interview, click on the link below.

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Country Artist ''Abby Stewart'' Delivering A Knock-Out Punch With Her New Single 'Bless Your Heart' Check Out Full Interview HERE

Abby Stewart - Bless Your Heart (Official Video)

Abby and Beamer - What If They're Wrong? - Official Music Video

Abby Stewart - I'm Still Faster

Abby Stewart sings Taylor Swift's "Should've Said No" The Beginning

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Country Artist ''Abby Stewart'' Delivering A Knock-Out Punch With Her New Single 'Bless Your Heart' Check Out Full Interview HERE

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Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Country Rising Start 'Mackenzie Leigh Meyer' Feeling the Love with Her New Single 'Before You'

w/ Canadian Rising Star ''Mackenzie Leigh Meyer''

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Country Rising Start 'Mackenzie Leigh Meyer' Feeling the Love with Her New Single 'Before You' Listen HERE

Mackenzie Leigh Meyer

New Single ''Before You''

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Country Rising Start 'Mackenzie Leigh Meyer' Feeling the Love with Her New Single 'Before You' Listen HERE

Hailing from Hamilton ON, the 26-year-old multi-instrumentalist country singer 'Mackenzie Leigh Meyer' has come a long way from her humble beginnings of community theatre and songwriting on the family piano. Emerging into the country music scene with her May 2018 EP “Dive Bar Diva”, up and comer Mackenzie Leigh Meyer is already getting praise for her unique style and enchanting vocals.

Beginning 2019 with a CMA Ontario nomination for “Roots Artist of the Year” and rounding it out with slots at Boots and Hearts, Havelock Jamboree, and Lucknow’s Music in the Fields to name a few, you could say she has been making a lot of ground in a short period of time.

Eager to follow the heat of 2019 with new music, Meyer partnered with esteemed producer Jeff Dalziel (2018/2019 CCMA Producer of the Year) and released her latest single “Before You” this October. The song was added to Spotify’s “Live Country” and Amazon’s “Breakthrough Country” playlists and has already garnered over 50,000 streams on Spotify alone.

''I had the pleasure of chatting with rising star 'Mackenzie Leigh Meyer' who has such a bright future in Canadian country music, '' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine and host for the International Music's Journey Podcast. ''Her new single 'Before You' really showcases the subtlety of her unique vocals and highlights just how gifted she is as a songwriter. It is a beautiful ballad that shows off her love of poetry in her approach to this song. I love the story and lyrics behind 'Before You' which is the polar opposite of her incredible song 'More Than A Memory.' My favourite by the way. Mackenzie's new single is a story that comes full circle. A story of love that is built by subtle gestures in everyday life, the emotional and mental support, the stability that builds that perfect friendship and love that is just so easy. The love that lasts a lifetime'' says Cyr.

''I really believe in Mackenzie's ability to tell a story beautifully in her music as a singer/songwriter,'' says Cyr. ''She really has something special and I know there is a real fire within her as an artist,'' says Kim Cyr. ''I can really relate to her artistry and we had a lot of fun in my interview with Mackenzie. I had to ask my favourite question lately in my Burning Questions portion of the interview and it did not disappoint. You have to hear what happens at the end of this interview. Priceless.'' To hear the whole interview, click the link below.

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Country Rising Start 'Mackenzie Leigh Meyer' Feeling the Love with Her New Single 'Before You' Listen HERE

Before You - Mackenzie Leigh Meyer

Mackenzie Leigh Meyer- More Than A Memory

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Country Rising Start 'Mackenzie Leigh Meyer' Feeling the Love with Her New Single 'Before You' Listen HERE

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Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Country Artist 'Aaron Allen' New Single 'Good Place To Start' Impacts Fans With A Message For Tough Times!

w/ Canadian Country Artist 'Aaron Allen'

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Country Artist 'Aaron Allen' New Single 'Good Place To Start' Impacts Fans With A Message For Tough Times! Listen HERE

Aaron Allen

New Single

'Good Place To Start'

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Country Artist 'Aaron Allen' New Single 'Good Place To Start' Impacts Fans With A Message For Tough Times! Listen HERE

April 15, 2020 (TORONTO, ON) - Tattoo artist and country singer-songwriter Aaron Allen is back with his best work yet. Allen has released his new single 'Good Place To Start' that was produced by the magic man himself, multi-award-winning Producer of the Year, Jeff Dalziel.

''On the heels of his emotionally charged and nominated EP; Highway Mile, Allen delivers a song that lets the message stand out in front of the music,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine and host of the International Music's Journey Podcast. ''His vocals and sound are unique in this song,'' says Cyr. ''I love the positive message that the lyrics deliver. There couldn't be a better message for the world right now and that message is to take the time to see the little things that bring on the stability that helps you grow and see the best in a much bigger picture called, ''Life.'' ''Sometimes we need to stop all of life's noise and see what is really important. Allen co-wrote this song with Joe Ernewein and Patrick James Clark. I had so much fun interviewing Allen and the stories and laughter just put a smile on your face. You have to hear what a fan-requested from Allen. It is hilarious. To hear the whole interview, click HERE.

In one of the toughest and disruptive years in our lives due to a worldwide pandemic, Aaron Allen managed to have one of the best years of his musical career and his star continues to rise.

- WINNER of 2020 CMAO "Rising Star"

- Nominated for 2020 CMAO "Male Artist Of The Year"

- WINNER of 2020 Forest City London Music Awards for "Country Artist Of The Year"

- Aaron's EP "Highway Mile" released in April 2020 receives over 3 million streams.

- Apple Music announces Aaron Allen as "Apple Artist Of The Week" for May 2020.

- Arts & Crafts Music Publishing sign Aaron to a publishing deal in May 2020.

ABOUT AARON ALLEN

The future is bright for rising Country Singer/Songwriter Aaron Allen, winner of the 2020 CMAOntario "Rising Star". Aaron was also nominated for "Male Artist of the Year". His latest EP release Highway Mile has accumulated over 3 million streams and has been on countless Apple playlists. Apple Music made Allen the Apple Music Artist of the Week in May of 2020 shortly after the release of his EP Highway Mile. He is also a published songwriter with Arts & Crafts Publishing and is currently having success writing for others. He co-wrote the lead single "It Couldn't Hurt" for newly signed Warner Music Canada artist David Boyd Janes. He co-wrote the song "Can't Stop" released by punk outfit and New Damage artists The Heart Attack Kids in 2020 as well. He has already placed more than a dozen songs slated to be released by other artists in 2021. Allen is just getting started so buckle up and get ready to join the ride for this very talented singer/songwriter Aaron Allen. Don't forget to watch the 2021 CMAOntario Awards.

Sunday, May 30 from 7:00-9:30 pm
Ancaster Fairgrounds
630 Trinity Road South

TICKETS:

MEMBER PRE-SALE STARTS APRIL 15

PUBLIC ON-SALE APRIL 23

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/cmaontario-awards-tickets-149778378161

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Country Artist 'Aaron Allen' New Single 'Good Place To Start' Impacts Fans With A Message For Tough Times! Listen HERE

Good Place to Start - Aaron Allen

Aaron Allen - Highway Mile (Official Music Video)

Good Tattoo - (Official Lyric Video)

Aaron Allen - Superman

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Country Artist 'Aaron Allen' New Single 'Good Place To Start' Impacts Fans With A Message For Tough Times! Listen HERE

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Music's Journey INTERVIEW w/ Multi-Award Winning Artist 'Brett Kissel' Coming Full Circle With HIs New Album 'What Is Life' About Life, Love And Gratitude!

w/ Multi-Award Winning Recording Artist

'Brett Kissel'

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey INTERVIEW w/ Multi-Award Winning Artist 'Brett Kissel' Coming Full Circle With His New Album 'What Is Life' About Life, Love And Gratitude! Listen To The Full Interview HERE

Brett Kissel

New Album 'What Is Life'

Music's Journey INTERVIEW w/ Multi-Award Winning Artist 'Brett Kissel' Coming Full Circle With His New Album 'What Is Life' About Life, Love And Gratitude! Listen To The Full Interview HERE

Brett Kissel releases his fifth major-label studio album What Is Life? (LISTEN HERE).

“That age-old question is one that I’ve really focused on and centered around for this next phase of my career and for my life,” says Brett. “And each and every time, the one thought that is always front and center for me, is doing the best we can with what we have and making the most of our lives. I hope that everyone who hears it not just enjoys it, but is also inspired by it.”

Last month, Brett unveiled the first single, “Make A Life, Not A Living,” accompanied by the official music (WATCH HERE). “Make A Life, Not A Living” set history upon its release, picking up the most adds ever in a single week on Canadian country radio.

Brett recently picked up his fifth career JUNO Award nomination. His chart-topping single “Drink About Me” is nominated in the prestigious Single of the Year category.

If you’re a fan of country music, you probably already know Brett Kissel’s story – owned his first guitar before he was even in school, released his first album before he could even drive – leading to him becoming Canada’s most dynamic country music artist before he turned 30 years old. The farm-and-ranch-raised artist has 15 top 10 radio singles, 3 #1 songs, and a tractor bucket full of gold and platinum plaques. He set records on his 112-date cross-country tour, played over 20 shows with his hero Garth Brooks, and has won 18 CCMA Awards and 2 JUNO Awards.

While fans were still buzzing about last year’s Now Or Never album, Brett started looking towards his next release, but couldn’t get three words out of his head – What Is Life? The search for something “more” weighed heavily on the country star’s mind and with the new album, Brett Kissel invites fans to take a deep dive with him into songs about love, celebration and gratitude.

''Whenever there is new music by superstar Brett Kissel, we all get excited,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine and host of Music's Journey Podcast. ''Brett's new album 'What Is Life' is a masterpiece of a life's journey that comes full circle for this star. Coming off a very busy 300-day touring year to the stillness of not performing live, Brett had to dig deep to see what his heart and soul already knew. He describes flying from one side of the country to the other and feeling his heart pull to the childhood farm he grew up on and left as a teenager. He swore that he would never miss the farm and focus on chasing his dream to play on the stage playing his music as a successful singer/songwriter. He never knew that life would come full circle and his need to ground his life with balance would come from the land that has been in his family for over a hundred years. Brett's new album What Is Life has something for everyone. Whether you are celebrating love, life, gratitude, or dealing with facing what hurdles are standing in your way, Brett has delivered some amazing songs on this new project. I get the opportunity to dig into the honesty and vulnerability behind the superstar Brett Kissel, in my recent interview this week. To hear the full interview, click the link below.

Music's Journey INTERVIEW w/ Multi-Award Winning Artist 'Brett Kissel' Coming Full Circle With His New Album 'What Is Life' About Life, Love And Gratitude! Listen To The Full Interview HERE

Brett Kissel - Make A Life, Not A Living (Official Music Video)

Brett Kissel - Die To Go Home (Visualizer)

Brett Kissel - From This Day Forward (Visualizer)

Brett Kissel - Down To Earth (Visualizer)

Music's Journey INTERVIEW w/ Multi-Award Winning Artist 'Brett Kissel' Coming Full Circle With His New Album 'What Is Life' About Life, Love And Gratitude! Listen To The Full Interview HERE

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Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Pop Artist ''Jordan Hart'' Connects As An Amazing Lyrist With His Debut EP ''Only Pieces Of The Truth''

w/ Pop Artist ''Jordan Hart''

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Pop Artist ''Jordan Hart'' Connects As An Amazing Lyrist With His Debut EP ''Only Pieces Of The Truth''

Jordan Hart

Releases New Single and the Music Video

Only Pieces of The Truth

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Pop Artist ''Jordan Hart'' Connects As An Amazing Lyrist With His Debut EP ''Only Pieces Of The Truth''

Jordan Hart debuts his brand-new video for Only Pieces of the Truth, the single was released today via Believe Digital and all streaming services. Hart is a singer-songwriter from Alberta, now based in Toronto, ON. The single is an emotive, mid-paced, and gentle song with gloriously sweeping arrangements and the video features a beautiful dance performance expressing our desire to communicate but failing to do so. It was directed by Julia Hendrickson (Justin Nozuka), produced by Lucy Cameron, and choreographed by Lauren Runions.

Said Hart. ‘’The central character realizes that all he wants to do is be vulnerable and that he is “holding all the cards, wishing you could see inside his walls.” But even still, and especially because the stakes are so high, he can’t bring himself to take the first steps forward toward repairing the relationship (“staring at your door, I’ll never knock”).’’

Hart reached out to Julia Hendrickson after being impressed by her work on Justin Nozuka’s past videos. The video was filmed in an old, abandoned mansion in Toronto. The concept of the video was to explore the line between the purely natural and slightly distorted or manipulated. The dancers wore little to no makeup and were dressed very simply as to contrast beautifully against this forgotten space that was once such a grand statement of human presence.

‘’The mansion’s decaying paint and old wood make it feel like space is being reclaimed by the natural world,’’ said Hart. ‘’The natural light that quietly exposes the dark abandoned rooms reminds me of our profound impermanence in the face of the vastness of the environment that surrounds us.’’

In 2019, Hart embarked on a 100-day straight busking challenge in Toronto, through thunderstorms and snowstorms he played on. Every Sunday, 100 percent of the money he raised was donated to L’Arche Canada, an organization that helps create communities that support people with intellectual disabilities. Since then, he has secured a record deal with Believe Digital and All Points (based out of the UK). The momentum from his daily busking also culminated in a sold-out show at the Great Hall in Toronto and his career streams also increased by over a quarter of a million. As a featured artist, his work with Lucky Rose on the song ‘’Lost’’ has accumulated over 15 million streams across all platforms and the track was top 30 at CHR Canadian radio. He is currently putting the finishing touches on his debut EP, out now.

''Pop artist ''Jordan Hart'' has built his career through his live performances and honing his brilliant artistry and vision as a singer/songwriter,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine and host of Music's Journey Podcast. ''Hart describes his debut video for his single Only Pieces of the Truth as a connection to his heart and soul. His vision moves you and connects you emotionally to that feeling we all can find hard to face and allow ourselves to be and that is vulnerable. The dancing in the video drives home that message with softness and the love that is expressed between the two dancers. You can feel the love that can be so strong but can be broken with the walls we build around ourselves that we feel are protecting us but in truth are robbing us of the compassion of what love can bring into our lives. You can't feel love completely or understand it without allowing yourself to be vulnerable a hundred percent of the way. I love this video and the visionary artist that Hart has become. Hart shows his emotive vocals and lyrics to this brilliant song,'' says Cyr.

To hear the full interview, click on the link below.

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Pop Artist ''Jordan Hart'' Connects As An Amazing Lyrist With His Debut EP ''Only Pieces Of The Truth''

Jordan Hart - Only Pieces of the Truth (Official Video)

Jordan Hart - Freedom (Live Acoustic)

Jordan Hart - Whole (Lyric Video)

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Pop Artist ''Jordan Hart'' Connects As An Amazing Lyrist With His Debut EP ''Only Pieces Of The Truth''

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Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Triple Platinum Singer/Songwriter/Producer 'Andrew Farriss' Extraordinary Self-Titled Album Debut!

w/ Triple Platinum Singer/Songwriter/Producer

'Andrew Farriss'

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Triple Platinum Singer/Songwriter/Producer 'Andrew Farriss' Extraordinary Self-Titled Album Debut!

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Triple Platinum Singer/Songwriter/Producer 'Andrew Farriss' Extraordinary Self-Titled Album Debut!Andrew Farriss Self-Titled Album Debut

Country, rock, and Americana singer/songwriter and INXS founder delivers an adventurous full album with limited-edition, animated picture disc vinyl LP

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Prolific songsmith and country and Americana singer/songwriter Andrew Farriss released his self-titled debut album on March 19th, 2021. Taking fans around the world on a journey through nature, history, love, and cultural spirituality, Farriss has put his whole heart into this work of art and has come up with nothing short of a masterpiece.

Farriss shares his genuine talents as he shifts into genres that encapsulate all he stands for. Inspired by adventure, exploration, and more, the complete album is now available to download and stream on all digital platforms. With the lead single and music video release of “Run Baby Run” and another album track, “Good Momma Bad” premiering on Cowboys & Indians, there is no containing the potential of this stellar work.

“One of the reasons many people have warmed to country music, is that it isn’t just happy songs,” says Andrew. “It is the sad songs; it is the gritty subjects that some genres of music won’t go near. That is something that attracts me as a songwriter. I don’t want to chase what train everyone else is on, I want to stay true to what I do as a songwriter, and keep a frontier sense of freedom. When I was putting the album together, I steered away from cliches, plus I wanted to put my own personality in it. If my album doesn’t sound like anyone else, then that is good.”

When creating this project, Andrew Farriss left no stone unturned. It was imperative to make a vinyl record like no other that reflects and provides not only a listening experience but a visual one as well. The vinyl, an original work of art in itself showcases a translucent record that comes to life with moving characters and breath-taking animation once it hits the turntable. The cover offers a classic “Western” feel that brings back the traditional qualities that albums once had, yet maintains a fresh new image to keep every collector wanting more.

“As well as digital, I was passionate about wanting my album released on vinyl as I think the music on vinyl is tangible - physically attractive with the right artwork. To me this is important in the current digital music avalanche,” beams Farriss.

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Triple Platinum Singer/Songwriter/Producer 'Andrew Farriss' Extraordinary Self-Titled Album Debut!

Andrew Farriss - Run Baby Run (Official Video)

Listen to “Good Momma Bad” premiered on Cowboys & Indians HERE.

Listen to, “With the Kelly Gang” premiere

Building anticipation, Andrew previously shared three singles from the debut. “Come Midnight,” released in 2019, has continued to build a strong following since it first received radio airplay. “Good Momma Bad,” released at the start of 2020, solidified Andrew’s new musical direction and garnered further acclaim. His latest single, “Run Baby Run,” hit airwaves in March 2021. Prior to COVID-19, Andrew’s solo debut was initially flagged for release in March 2020. However, that was put on hold for 12-months. In that time, Andrew released a five-track EP, ‘Love Makes The World’, that spawned two hit singles, the title track which recently took the #5 spot on the Australian country chart, and “All The Stars Are Mine.”

''Andrew Farriss is one of the most accomplished and exceptional artists in rock history,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief of NOW and THEN Magazine and host of Music's Journey Podcast. Farriss's skills as a songwriter/producer are showcased in this unique visual storyboard of a collection of songs that bring his artistry to life in his self-titled debut album. ''It is a masterpiece,'' says Cyr. Here are some of the questions I asked Andrew Farriss in my interview with him.

1. What song makes you emotional and why?

Farriss - “ HURT “ ( Trent Reznor ) - Johnny Cash's version.

About as real and gutsy a song as it gets.

Makes me emotional.

I felt an instant and heartfelt connection to this song, and as a songwriter myself it pushes all the right buttons.

2. If you could step into the shoes and mind of any artist past or present, who would it be and why?

Farriss - Bob Marley & The Wailers. Bob was a true master and communicator - a genius.

Love what that group of people achieved, love the Reggae music, love the songwriting, love the attitude to life, and conviction of faith.

After Bob passed, my band INXS was doing another major US tour and Ziggy Marley and the Wailers came out on tour with us for 3 months during the KICK tour.

Later down the road, I recall Ziggy showing me Bob’s bible, as a treasured possession.

I hope they are all well and in good health.

Love to all.

3. What is your biggest life lesson so far?

Farriss - Treat others as you’d like to be treated, never lose a great opportunity to keep your mouth shut.

You need good food and clean water and shelter.

You can't eat a smartphone.

4. When you want to shut out all the noise and stress of the world, what is your favorite thing to do?

Farriss - Read books. Think of positive things in life. Take a gentle walk, if possible with a loved one or friend - find a peaceful location. Eat pistachio nuts.

5. What is your most useless talent?

Farriss - I know how to repair a flat tire with a vulcanizing kit.

To hear the whole interview, click HERE

Andrew Farriss - All The Stars Are Mine (Official Video)

Andrew Farriss - Come Midnight (Official Video)

Andrew Farriss - Good Momma Bad (Official Video)

Andrew Farriss - Run Baby Run - Behind The Scenes (Official Video)

Andrew Farriss - Love Makes The World EP (Live Performance)

Andrew Farriss Ticket Information HERE

When it came to penning the tracks for the album, Farriss had looked within and through personal experience, writing a collection of songs that bring to life stories of outlaws, freedom, cowboys, love, and paints vivid imagery of gun-slinging bandits, Australian history, and international cultural spirituality. With no INXS touring plans in the immediate future, and an abundance of original material in his songbook, Andrew has now launched a solo career that sees him taking aim at the country and Americana; and this is only the beginning.

“I love writing songs and telling stories that hopefully resonate with people. I have not followed any trends or formulas creating these songs. What I have written and recorded is different. I like different, different is good."

Buy CD/Vinyl HERE

About Andrew Farriss:

Andrew Farriss is a creative, versatile, award-winning artist embarking on an adventure to present his individual talents to the world. Not only did Farriss co-found the iconic INXS mentioned above, but he was also the main songwriter, played the keyboard and guitar, and sang backup vocals for the band. His hard work has paid off as the group went on to be nominated for Grammy, Brit, MTV Music, and ARIA Awards. He alone won producer of the year at the ARIA Awards and has written songs for various albums that have gone triple platinum. Native to Tamworth Australia, Farriss now splits his time between his home country and Nashville, Tennessee. Farriss frequents the Bluebird Cafe in Nashville and makes a highly anticipated yearly appearance at Tamworth’s Country Music Festival in Australia. Nothing can stop Farriss’s creativity and this album is a roadmap of the numerous feats he has achieved.

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Triple Platinum Singer/Songwriter/Producer 'Andrew Farriss' Extraordinary Self-Titled Album Debut!

For more information and everything Andrew Farriss, please visit www.andrewfarriss.com.

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Music's Journey INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Pop Artist 'Kayla Diamond' Spreading the Message of 'Self Love' with New Single '50/50' Here Full Interview HERE!

w/ Canadian Pop Star 'Kayla Diamond'

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine

Music's Journey INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Artist Star 'Kayla Diamond' Spreading the Message of 'Self Love'

with New Single '50/50' Here Full Interview HERE

Kayla Diamond

"50/50"

Music's Journey INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Artist Star 'Kayla Diamond' Spreading the Message of 'Self Love'

with New Single '50/50' Here Full Interview HERE!

50/50 is a unique take on a love song. It's a love song about you (the listener), versus a breakup song about two people. This homage to self-esteem is timely as taking care of your own emotional needs became paramount in 2021, Kayla reflects on this on her latest track 50/50. As Kayla explains “Sometimes you need to show yourself some love, even if it means hurting someone else."

Working with Marty Martino (Honors, Down With Webster) and her A&R team, the result is one of Kayla’s strongest tracks to date and showcases her dynamic vocal range.

Reflecting on what she wants fans to take from the song Kayla says “Lots of people will hear this song and think it's just about a spoiled relationship, but to me, it's so much more than that. It's about recognizing that you deserve better than what you're being given. It's about removing unwanted toxicity from your life.”

Since the 2017 release of her debut single “Carnival Hearts” (which went on to stream over 5 million times) and its follow up Top 10 single, the anthemic “What You’re Made Of,” Kayla continues to impress with her talent and determination to spread positivity with her words and music.

''Kayla Diamond has a very unique way of presenting this love story,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief of NOW and THEN Magazine and host for Music's Journey Podcast. ''50/50 (Slaight Music/Pheromone/Cadence): The new single from the Toronto pop singer/songwriter has burst out of the gate, notching the Top Indie Add on the DMDS/Yangaroo chart this week. This song has a powerful message that can be taken in many different life situations. It is what I love about it. The message to self-love, to recognize when a relationship is toxic and that instead of staying in something that just isn't good for you. Kayla opens up about her recent marriage Talia Hershon and the special love they have for one another. I have a chance to ask some cool questions to them both,'' says Cyr. To hear the full interview, click on the link below.

Music's Journey INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Artist 'Kayla Diamond' Spreading the Message of 'Self Love'

with New Single '50/50' Here Full Interview HERE

Kayla Diamond - 50/50

always been you - Kayla Diamond (Official Music Video)

Kayla Diamond - What You're Made Of (Official 4K Music Video)

Music's Journey INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Artist 'Kayla Diamond' Spreading the Message of 'Self Love'

with New Single '50/50' Here Full Interview HERE

Follow Kayla Diamond

Music's Journey Podcast INTERVIEW w/ Canadian Country Artist ''Don Amero'' His New Single ''You Can't Always Be 21'' feat. Jess Moskaluke!

w/ Canadian Country Artist ''Don Amero''

Hosted by Kim Cyr

Presented by NOW and THEN Magazine