A Toronto, Ontario native, David Boyd Janes is being recognized as one of country music’s most promising new artists – and he owes everything he has accomplished so far to the decision he made two years ago of quitting his job to focus on music full-time. The valiant move paid off quickly; 2019 was a monstrous year for the budding country star.
“I truly feel like I’m stuck in the greatest dream I’ve ever had and I hope I never wake up,” says David. “I have no idea what’s around the corner but I’m really excited to greet it and embrace it all.”
He emerged out of 100 artists to win The Next Country Music Star contest put on by the Havelock Country Jamboree, and was named Artist of the Year at the Mississauga Music Awards. Another win at the Country Wild Music Festival in Cobourg, Ontario, earned David a trip to Nashville to record a song with Grammy-winner Jamie Tate. Before David even released the song – Ready For A Good Time – Montana’s restaurant chain chose it to be featured in their advertisements airing nationwide on both tv and radio. After winning the Boots & Hearts Emerging Artist Showcase, he not only got the opportunity to perform in front of 25,000 country fans on the final night of the festival but with the win came a single release contract through Warner Music Canada.
The song - Couldn’t Hurt - was written with country superstar James Barker, fellow CMAOntario Award nominee Aaron Alan and industry veteran Joe Ernewein.
2020 has also seen David earn his first CMAOntario Award nomination in the Rising Star category, and while plans for a robust tour had to be put on hold, next year is shaping up to be his busiest yet.
If you want some great stories and extreme fun and laughter, listen to the interview with David Boyd Janes below!!!
Multi-platinum, award winning entertainer Tim Hicks released his new single ‘The Good, The Bad and The Pretty’ via Open Road Recordings. Self-penned along with Derek Hoffman and Deric Ruttan, ‘The Good, The Bad and The Pretty’ sets the stage for the next chapter in Hicks’ career, and is the first release off his forthcoming EP, out later this year.
Of the song says Hicks, ‘The Good, The Bad and The Pretty’ is about that one bar in every town, that welcomes all sorts of characters on any given night. For me, it represents a lot of the bars I played on a nightly basis for years. I made a lot of good friends in places like that. The best people. The kind that’d give you the shirt off their back if you needed it, and they did. I wanted to pay tribute to them.”
‘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 recently 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.
Building from local acclaim to a nationally recognized name, Hicks has cemented his reputation as an elite chart-topping act since making his country label debut in 2013. 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.
As the newest artist signed to the Open Road Recordings’ roster, rising star Dustin Bird released his debut album Unscripted on February 5, 2021, featuring the lead single “Broke and Lonely,” releasing to Canadian country radio on March 1.
CMAO Rising Star nominee Dustin Bird is pushing the boundaries of modern country music. He has achieved six top 100 singles on the Canadian Country Airplay chart as an artist, songwriter and producer. Building off of the success of ‘Together We're Strong,’ a charity single he produced and co-wrote featuring artists such as Cory Marks, Aaron Pritchett and Jason McCoy, he earned his first Top 40 Australian Airplay single with ‘Every Little Town.’ Along with this he became a national finalist in the Jim Beam Talent Search, wrote, produced and released ‘Live Off the Floor’ sessions from the famed Catherine North Studios and was called ‘one to watch for in the country music scene…’ (Sun Country 99.7 FM)
Along with his notable Canadian country radio play, he has garnered an impressive 325,000 + streams as an artist and 1 million + streams collectively as a writer and producer. His music has earned a spot on Spotify editorial playlists such as ‘All About Country,’ ‘New Music Nashville,’ and ‘Live Country.’ As a performer with a natural love for entertaining an audience, Dustin Bird has played major festivals such as Boots and Hearts, Havelock Jamboree, Kempenfest and more. His tour history also includes an opening for major Canadian acts such as Tyler Shaw, Jess Moskaluke and The Washboard Union, among others. With new music, a growing fan base and a new record on the way, Dustin Bird truly ‘solidifies his place in the country’s wave of rising stars’ (Rhythm & Boots NYC).
''Open Road Recordings rising star Dustin Bird delivers with his new single ''Broke and Lonely'' on his debut album 'Unscripted', says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief NOW and THEN Magazine Host of Music's Journey Podcast. ''I am always blown away with Dustin Bird's is like a painter inspiring us with every word unveiling a masterpiece that is very personal and authentic,'' says Cyr. "I have a lot of fun talking to Dustin but my favorite story is how Dustin likes to write with a cigar and whiskey sitting in his underwear on the front porch,'' says Cyr. Check it out!!
"I believe that in a time of extreme adversity, we must remain unified. As Canadians and members of this industry, we have a responsibility to do everything in our power to generate positive change through this art form."
- Dustin, as the producer, co-writer, and featured artist on “Together We're Strong.” DonateHERE
The five-track project was produced by hit songwriter/producer Danny Myrick (Jason Aldean, Tim McGraw, Maddie & Tae), Hoot’s debut project features four original songs as well as Hoot’s recently released cover of “La Bamba.” Hoot collaborated with an all-star lineup of musicians and songwriters for Love Out Of Time including Dean Sams (Lonestar), Myrick, Jenne Fleenor (CMA Award-winning musician), Dave Pahanish (Keith Urban, Tim McGraw, Toby Keith), Jamie Floyd (Ingrid Andress, Lucie Silvas, Ashley Monroe) and more.
Jake Hoot released his haunting new duet “I Would’ve Loved You” on January 27 and now he’s unveiling the music video for the powerful track. The emotion-filled duet features Hoot’s coach from his triumphant season of The Voice, Kelly Clarkson.
From backstage, side stage to front of the house, the music video finds Hoot and Clarkson wandering around the Wiltern Theatre in Los Angeles, CA. The clip brings the heartstring-pulling story to life in an elegant setting with a flawless visual that is perfect for the track while putting both of their powerhouse vocals on full display center stage.
“More than forever, always, madly / the deepest, unforgettable / With all that I am / with my heart wide open / for the rest of my life I promise you / I’m gonna hate you as long and as much as I would’ve loved you/ And I would’ve loved you,” Hoot and Clarkson sing during the chorus.
''The unveiling of the music video for ''I Would've Loved You'' is so evocative and powerful,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine. ''Jake Hoot and Kelly Clarkson deliver a haunting performance that expresses the gut-wrenching, explicit feelings you feel when you love someone with everything you have and have that love ripped away with no warning. It is honest and candid. Jake shows how he can project his voice so clearly and with such ease. It is truly incredible. Kelly's voice and vulnerability are stunning in this duet with Jake. There just isn't any other word for it. I get chills every time I listen to it. The lyrics are bold and direct, leaving nothing to the imagination. Artists have to reinvent a new way to write lyrics about heartache and breakups. This song brings it and will resonate with fans around the world.''
Jake Hoot feat. Kelly Clarkson - I Would've Loved You (Official Music Video)
Jake Hoot - This Is The Night (Official Lyric Video)
Jake Hoot - Somethin' We Can Slow Dance To (Official Lyric Video)
''This one is a very special song to me because of the meaning behind it,'' says Hoot. ''It talks about a love that’s misplaced in time, not run out of love, just wrong timing. And even though it's no one's fault, it's just not the right time. It is about two people who love each other, but the timing just isn’t right. When I came up with the concept of this song, I was in a very interesting time in my life. I really had feelings for this girl but it just wasn’t the right time for either of us. Fast forward a few years, he adds, this girl is now going to be my wife! Timing really is everything! This is also her favorite tune.''
Jake Hoot - Love Out Of Time (Official Lyric Video)
Drawing inspiration from his childhood in the Dominican Republic, Hoot released a cover of “La Bamba” from his forthcoming EP on November 6th, which landed in the Top 10 on the iTunes Latin charts. Fellow Season 17 The Voice contestant Ricky Duran is featured as the lead guitarist on “La Bamba” along with 8 other contestants who lent their vocals on the track from Hoot’s winning season.
Jake Hoot - La Bamba ft. Ricky Duran (Official Music Video)
Following his record-breaking win on NBC’s The Voice, Hoot has gone on to release several tracks including charitable song “Tennessee Strong,” which reached Top 10 in the iTunes Country Singles chart, Top 35 on the iTunes All-Genre Chart, and benefitted the survivors of the deadly Middle TN tornadoes. He also released the debut single “Dangerous Thing,” a special Father’s Day song, “The Best Job I Ever Had” and a heartwarming love song, “Nadine.”
Currently over 3 million Apple Music and Spotify streams, nearly 70K downloads, and gearing up to make his second Grand Ole Opry appearance, the future proves bright for this mega-talent with a heart of gold who is known by his 5-year-old daughter simply as daddy.
Saskatoon-based rock trio, W3APONS has been very busy since their debut single, ''Off the Top of My Heart'', produced by The Trew’s John-Angus MacDonald.
The band’s debut single “Off the Top of My Heart” reached #11 on the Canadian Active Rock Charts completely independently in 2019 and has received over 700,000 plays on Spotify. In 2020, the band’s single “Bye Baby Gone” went Top 10 on the Canadian Active Rock Charts, peaking at #8.
Drummer/vocalist Tallus Scott, bassist/vocalist Myk Ulan-Hohol, and guitarist/ vocalist Jordan Welbourne are the elements in the perfect storm that is W3APONS - Energetic, Hard-hitting, and unmistakably Rock & Roll.
W3APONS has shared the stage with The Trews, Monster Truck, The Lazys, and The Wild! The band was also hand-picked by Theory of a Deadman (AKA THEORY) joining them for all 21 Canadian dates of their Say Nothing World Tour in January/February 2020.
''Saskatoon rock'n roll independent trio W3APONS serve up a certified hard-hitting, killer rock jam that delivers the real deal with the heavy guitar riffs bringing that classic rock music with a modern sound that will put this band to the top of the charts'', says Kim Cyr Editor in Chief NOW and THEN Magazine. The trio has really found their sweet spot that will be filling the festivals with fans singing every word. You can hear just how hard this band has been working to develop their craft and harmonies. I love every bit of their new music. I was a big fan before and it is really cool to see just how far they have come in such a short period of time. This is just the start of what will surely be fan favorites with their full body of work yet to come. The band co-wrote this 'Broken Promises' with JUNO Award winnerClayton Bellamy from The Road Hammers and John-Angus and Colin MacDonald from The Trews. W3APONS will be working with John-Angus MacDonald to produce more songs and maybe a full album''. For a ton of laughs and stories about Jordan, Tallus, and Myk, listen to the full interview HERE.
W3APONS ''Off the Top of My Heart'' Official Video
Going into its 16th year, the Andy Kim Christmas Special Presented by AIR MILES has been gathering friends and fans together to celebrate the spirit and generosity of the musical community with all proceeds going to charity. Instead of a live audience in a venue, this year’s show will bring people together from coast to coast on Citytv,Citytv.com, and LiveNation.com. The program is the brainchild of music legend, and one of the evening's performers, Andy Kim.
“I was on the verge of having to postpone the 16th year of my Christmas show and was truly bummed out. I kept thinking of all the people who are having a difficult time economically, spiritually, and emotionally. I did not want to abandon the purpose of my yearly show - giving to those in need at this time of year. With the support of Live Nation Canada, Rogers, and Air Miles, I am excited to bring the Andy Kim Christmas Special from coast to coast for the first time and hopefully raise an incredible amount of money to very worthy causes through the power of music,” said Andy Kim.
“Andy Kim’s ChristmasSpecial is an expression of Love. From the beginning of his career, he spoke to what love and giving meaning in our lives. Now we need love and giving more than ever,” said Riley O’Connor, Chairman, Live Nation Canada.
"Leveraging our Program to support those who need us most is part of who we are atAIR MILES, and we are thrilled to be presenting the Andy Kim Christmas Special in support of Crew Nation, Food Banks Canada, and CAMH,” said Blair Cameron, President, AIR MILES Reward Program. “While the holidays will undoubtedly look very different for many of us this year, we are proud to help create an experience that brings Canadians together through a rewarding holiday experience they can enjoy from the comfort of their homes.”
Live music inspires millions around the world, but the concerts we all enjoy wouldn’t be possible without the countless crew members working behind the scenes. Crew Nationis a charitable fund, created to support independent workers who are the backbone of the live music industry, who have been left without work. So far, the fund has raised $15 million, helping 15,000 live music crew members across 48 countries who were impacted by the rescheduled or canceled shows scheduled to take place through 2020.
CAMH Gifts of Light is a 100 percent donation-funded program that meets the unique needs of its patients. Items provided by Gifts of Light, like emergency kits and pajamas, make a difference year-round, but particularly during the holidays. By supporting Gifts of Light, you can help more than 14,000 patients each year find the hope, strength, and courage they need to get through their hardest days and find a better tomorrow.
Food banks across Canada have been severely impacted by COVID-19. The operational capacity is strained due to the loss of volunteers and changes due to public health requirements while in some areas, they're also facing increased public demand for support. The funds from Andy Kim’s Christmas Show will help Food Banks Canada with the immediate, emergency needs, and to prepare for what’s to come.
WATCH ON: Saturday, December 19 – 8 p.m. (local) Citytv Simultaneous Live Stream on Citytv.com Global Live Stream on LiveNation.com
November 19, 2020 (Toronto, ON) — Although 2020 has been a year filled with unknowns, one thing Canada can be sure of is the skyrocketing trajectory of its very own Manny Blu. Over the course of the past year Blu has earned international recognition for his signature sound and, today he releases his sophomore album New Ink — a 5-track collection that delivers an edgier, matured sound from the Montreal-native.
"New Ink, sonically, was made with the intention to go back to the reason I picked up a guitar in the first place -- loud melodic guitars and big drums, with purposeful lyrics and storytelling,” said Blu of the new album. “I wanted it to be what you’re looking to play whether you are in a good or bad mood; something to blast through the speakers!”
With an amplified mix of country twang and a heavy rock & roll attitude, New Ink brings Blu’s rebellious vibe to the forefront, creating an original sound that highlights his blues and rock upbringing. Influenced by the likes of Brantley Gilbert, The Cadillac Three, and Jason Aldean, each of the 5 tracks heard on New Ink find a home in the “Outlaw Country” genre and are heavy with rock-based instrumentals. Recorded at OmniSound Studios in Nashville and produced by Aaron Eshuis, New Ink speaks directly to what Blu himself calls the “true heart” of the band’s live shows: “There’s more rock, more soul, and more volume this time around. It’s bigger and louder, but it’s still me. And more importantly, it’s still fun.”
In the lead-up to today’s debut, Blu has released three tracks from New Ink including “Born to Ride,” “Old Money” and “Sink.” The most recent of the trio, “Sink,” dropped in September and is an infectious song written by Josh Osbourne, Ryan Tyndell (Eric Church, Jon Pardi) and Matt Jenkins (Kenny Chesney, Florida Georgia Line, Old Dominion), about hitting the bottom of a bottle of Jack while "watching it all go down the sink" after a difficult breakup. Despite the context of the song, “Sink” delivers a catchy country/rock sound fueled by a dynamic bass line that brings a steady groove throughout as Blu’s gritty vocals cut through with the storyline.
“Old Money,” one of Blu’s favorite tracks on the EP, came just before “Sink”. Co-written by fellow rising star Brandon Lay, with Neil Medley (Luke Bryan, Brent Cobb, Lindsay Ell) and New Ink producer Aaron Eshuis, the song perfectly suits Blu’s distinctive, gravelly voice, building on his rock-inspired sound through a storming, anthemic hook. The acoustic-led verses show he’s unafraid to embrace an early influence from blues artists like B.B. King and John Mayer, before Kristen Rogers joins him in the final chorus to drive the track home with their unique blend of vocals.
After months of remaining off the road and refraining from in-person appearances and performances, Blu celebrated the launch of New Ink with a live, in-person show at 6th & Peabody in Nashville, on November 17.
With the help of the popular music venue, Blu is excited to experience live show energy that New Ink was inspired by, saying, "I'm what some may call a 'road dog,' and I'm proud of that. I can't wait to get out on that stage and share this new music with everyone. 6th & Peabody has been amazing to work with to make sure everything goes smoothly, and everyone is safe."
When it comes to streaming, 2020 has already been a landmark year for the up-and-coming artist, with nearly 1 Million global streams to date. This year also saw Blu's breakthrough borders by building an international team (US, Canada, and the UK), leading to global recognition. He was named UK's Country Radio Hit's Champion of the Week with the release of "Old Money" and TIDAL's Rising Country Star with the release of "Sink." The pre-released tracks from the upcoming album have also landed coveted playlist spots across Apple Music, Amazon Music, and Spotify.
Blu continues to carve his own path in country music with a sound he introduced through Leave It Like It Is, his debut record (2019) that earned him thousands of new fans and presented him with the opportunity to hit the road. Last spring, Blu spent two months crossing Canada while opening for George Canyon’s “Hit After Hit Tour” and then headlined his own Canadian tour to close out the year. Earlier this spring, Blu crossed the US and Canada on another headlining tour.
''Manny Blu's new EP 'New Ink'' has 5 tracks, each bringing that vulnerable place in life about love and loss that we all can relate to. Blu brings that rebellious, edgy blues vibe with his gravelly voice and that rock & roll influence that is really hard-hitting that I love, '' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine.
Fans can stay up to date on news and announcements from Manny Blu and join the Blu Cru by visiting his website or following along on Instagram and Facebook.
ABOUT MANNY BLU
Manny Blu has always been a fighter. Years before he crisscrossed North America as an acclaimed country singer and a true road warrior—playing nightly shows in support of his 2019 debut album Leave It Like It Is, while also sharpening the larger-than-life sound that would fill his 2020 follow-up EP New Ink—Manny spent his days in the gym, training for a career as an MMA fighter.
Traveling often to Nashville from his hometown of Montreal, he began piecing together a new record—one that showcased the lessons he learned on the road. Working with producer Aaron Eshuis and hit songwriters like Josh Osborne, Rhett Atkins, and Ross Copperman, Manny Blu emerged from Nashville's OmniSound Studios with New Ink. From “Born To Ride” to "Sink," these new songs tell relatable stories about love, loss, breakups, and everything in between, rooted in an amplified mix of country twang and heavy rock & roll attitude.
Raised as a versatile athlete who played hockey, soccer, and football before kickstarting his MMA training at 16-years-old, Manny Blu hasn't lost that fighting spirit. If anything, he's gotten stronger, learning to roll with the punches and knock down any obstacles in his path. New Ink, with its hard-hitting hooks and country-rock edge, is the soundtrack to a career on the rise--and Manny Blu is ready to deliver a knockout blow. New Ink is available now.
20 NOVEMBER, 2020 TORONTO, ON) – After releasing their highly anticipated album Sophomore SlumpCCMA winners and JUNO nominees, The Reklaws announce their digital tour. Presented by SCENE Music, the duo are set to embark on the “Sophomore Slump” virtual tour kicking off on November 23 in Vancouver, Canada. Tickets are available HERE and a full list of tour dates is below.
The digital tour will have shows in seven cities across the country, including a stop in the platinum-selling country duo’s hometown of Kitchener, ON. Virtual concert-goers will have the chance to hear The Reklaws perform tracks from their brand new album live for the first time ever including their latest single, “Not Gonna Not.” Viewers will also have the opportunity to take part in a Q&A and can expect special guests along the way.
With the purchase of a ticket, fans have access to special bundles including merchandise, autographed posters, CDs, and exclusively for SCENE members, a free buddy pass, and a chance to compete for prizes before the show. Tickets are available HERE and more information on SCENE Music can be found at scene.ca.
''The Reklaws have just released their best work yet with their new EP Sophomore Slump,'' says Kim Cyr, NOW and THEN Magazine. ''Sophomore Slump is full of heart with vulnerable lyrics of life's journeys and experiences told in unique ways that really draw you in. The fun side of Jenna and Stuart really plays itself out in each one of the songs that really show the growth of these two singer/songwriters. It's infectious. You can't help but feel you are having fun with your toes tapping and singing right along with them.''
''This is the 2nd full-length album to be released by The Reklaws with real-life stories and lyrics that you can feel that really showcase just how much these two both have grown and honed in the craft of real storytelling. They have tapped into that real emotion you need to connect with your audience. They both feel so strongly about representing real-life experiences that they have lived through their music. It is what I loved when I first met these two who had just come off the stage as the Emerging Artists of the Year at the Boots and Hearts Music Festival years ago. The Reklaws are one of the hottest country acts in Canadian country music today and this EP shows us why.''
''Jenna has a beautiful voice that lends itself beautifully to storytelling. She knows how to be vulnerable and allow the lyrics to carry her that delivers the heart of the song. It is really nice to listen to. Stuart, well what can I say? From the shy young guy who played guitar at the festival to the frontman singing the words he lives and breaths, I would say he has found his voice,'' says Cyr.
''This EP is really going to be a lot of fun to hear live and is very radio-friendly. On Sophomore Slump the CCMA-winning duo mix that playful side and the sweet, toe-tapping vibes of ''You Problem'' to go with a smooth cool little song like ''So Crazy It Just Might Work'' that just might give the magic back to what love is all about. Perfect for what is happening in the world today. Here’s hoping you give these ones a spin.''
Listen to the INTERVIEW to hear about The Reklaws 'Sophomore Slump Digital Tour' starting November 23rd, in Vancouver, Canada. This is a seven-city tour that lands Stuart and Jenna in their hometown Kitchener and Toronto, ON. There will be special guests on this tour so you don't want to miss this one!!! Grab your best frat party attire and your red solo’s n raise em’ up for SOPHOMORE SLUMP!
Raised on their family farm in rural Ontario, The Reklaws, made up of sibling duo Jenna and Stuart Walker, signed their first major record deal with Universal Music in 2017. They found success with their second single “Long Live the Night” when it quickly became platinum-certified. The single went on to win the 2019 CCMA for top-selling Canadian single of the year and was selected as the theme song for the Canadian Football League’s (“CFL”) Thursday Night Football for the 2018 & 2019 seasons. The momentum continued to build with the release of their debut EP, “Feels Like That”, which was awarded the 2019 CCMA for Album of the year. The title single, “Feels Like That” was also the Reklaw's first #1 at Canadian Country Radio and is certified Gold in Canada. In 2019 the duo completed their first national tour with Dean Brody and Dallas Smith, earned their first JUNO nomination for “Country Album of The Year”, released their first full-length album, and received their 3rd Gold Single for “I Do Too.” This year the duo released the single "Can't Help Myself” with their long-time country music hero, Dean Brody, and the now gold-certified single “Where I’m From”. To add to their growing list of accolades The Reklaws were nominated for Group of the Year at the 2020 JUNO Awards marking the first time in over 20-years that a Country group was included in the category. The duo reached another career milestone when their debut album Freshman Year was certified GOLD on the one-year anniversary of its release. Most recently The Reklaws were nominated for four Canadian Country Music Awards including the prestigious Entertainer of The Year award. Sophomore Slump is the duo’s latest full-length album. There’s no doubt that The Reklaws, who have garnered over 125 million streams to date, is poised to be the Country’s next superstars.
''I love their sound,'' says Cyr. ''Cory has the instinct to navigate a song with his unique voice and his songwriting skills that can tap into that vulnerable side of himself that delivers everything that a great song needs to connect with the fans. He is a true storyteller. Jeff brings his own artistry to the table with his creativity, his ability to bring words to life in the music, the harmonies, and vision that brings the unique sound for Lemon Cash. I am really excited for them both and for country music. If this is just the start of 'Lemon Cash', we are in for one hell of a ride.''
''Lemon Cash has some cool new music that they are releasing in January that I can't wait for the fans of country music to hear. These two have their finger on what is going to work for the new country music genre. I had so much fun talking with them and getting to know Jeff and Cory. They are so talented. They have such a great opportunity with their new single ''Wine Tonight'' that is set to release in January 2021. They are going to really shake things up on the airwaves for country radio with this one. I got to hear it and just love it. They are kicking off 2021 with such a great song. The award-winning producer, Jeff Dalziel really worked his magic bringing out the best in Jeff and Cory for this song. He just has that amazing gift to connect and read the artists he works with and hon in on exactly what they need to make a hit record. There are some really great stories and lots of laughs talking about their experience working with Jeff. You can hear all of that and more. I am giving you all a sneak peek of their new single ''Wine Tonight'' in my interview with them HERE so check it out.''
''Cory and Jeff have been working hard during this difficult year writing with many different songwriters bringing more and more to their writing style. Coming from the rock alternative genre, Cory delivers with his tone and range. I love his voice. I think he has something really special. Cory takes his writing very seriously. He has just started to learn what he is capable of and I am really excited to see his own journey writing music. Jeff has been writing for the first time giving his creativity and ability to put music into his own words with the duo's new music that they are releasing very soon.''
''What an exciting journey to take with your sibling. To share this dream together is pretty special and such a gift in life. They both have so much to bring to the music industry and this is just the start. Hell, I can't wait for you all to hear and see what this duo has in store for us all.
''Lemon Cash gave me another gift during our interview together and that was the chance to hear their second single ''Locked Up'' that they are releasing next year. It is such a great way to look at this time that the world is going through right now and adding a positive spin to it. 'Locked Up' is such a cool song. You are all going to love it. I am going to share another sneak peek with a teaser for 'Locked Up' in my interview right HERE!
''Stay tuned for all the latest news with Lemon Cash right HERE. ''Wine Tonight'' and ''Locked Up'' will be out in 2021!!!'
''Don't forget to check out Lemon Cash's latest EP ''Scary Sometimes'' on iTunes and Spotify, purchase it, share it and add it to your playlist now. All four songs on this EP are fantastic songs.''
About Lemon Cash
This home-grown band consists of two brothers:Jeff and Cory Papineau. The band's name earned inspiration from their time as kids running a lemonade stand. The two would come home each day celebrating their hard-earned “lemon cash”. As they grew older, so did their interests (thankfully!) and they developed a passion for making music together.
Lemon Cash formed in 2014 as a cover band playing in front of family and friends in their hometown of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada. Once they gained experience from playing as a band in front of crowds, they decided to create their own original material and play as an alternative indie-rock band. They played numerous gigs and received lots of radio traction all over the province. After three solid years of playing as a five-piece band, they decided to split up on good terms.
Despite the disappointing turn of events, it did not prevent the brothers from continuing to carry the Lemon Cash brand name. Looking to evolve their music, they would transition to the country genre.
The inspiration to switch to the country genre is thanks to their parents: Jeff Sr. and Sandra. They introduced Cory and Jeff to country music when the brothers were young. Listening to a wide range of artists such as Garth Brooks, Brooks & Dunn, Tim McGraw, Joe Diffie, George Jones, and George Strait, the warmth and comforting sound of the country music sound resonated with them growing up and inspired them to create music of their own.
Cory, the vocalist and guitar player of the duo, admires singers like Kenny Chesney, Bryan Adams, and John Mayer. On the drums, Jeff always had an ear for harmonies and beautiful melodies. He appreciates groups such as Bee Gees, Beach Boys, and Eagles, all-encompassing that easy listening sound. Although the two brothers seem to have their ears set on older music, there is no question that they are still keeping up with the times and remain in the loop for new music and new sounds to support their creativity.
Lemon Cash recently signed a single-song deal with multi-platinum producer Jeff Dalziel, whose accolades include 2018 CCMA, 2018 CMAO, 2019 CCMA, and 2019 CMAO Producer of the Year. They are currently working together to form their sound, and they will select the most effective song for production, and connect with singers/songwriters in Nashville to help them expand their musical horizons.
Lemon Cash released their latest EP on October 31, 2019, titled Scary Sometimes. to compile the album, they met with their long-time friend and producer James Robertson to record a handful of original songs. Jumping into the world of country music, Lemon Cash is off to a heck of a start. With landing a deal withJeff Dalziel, releasing an EP, and making connections in the country world, it’s safe to say that these Ottawa natives are on the right path to what seems to be a promising career.
''The charts keep climbing for Canadian Country Artist ''Owen Barney,'' releasing one hit after the next this year. His brand new single ''Pour Me'' is killing it, the follow-up single after releasing ''Thank Her For That'' that smashed the charts.''
''Owen is on fire...and this is one artist you need to hear and the one to watch,'' says Cyr. ''Owen has big dreams for his career in country music and he has the industry's attention. The fans really connect and resonate with Owen's music and he is off to one hell of a start. With his first Top 20, Thank Her For That, his new single Pour Me, and the toe-tap-inducing Make Your Night, (plus a live-off-the-floor recording of Pour Me) Owen Barney has shown incredible growth as an artist, maturity as a writer, and reinforced exactly why he is one to watch. We are all watching. I love to see a young artist with sheer raw talent like Owen. He has what it takes to take him all the way in country music,'' says Kim Cyr NOW and THEN Magazine.
''I am really excited for Owen and I can't wait to see what he has in store for us. I look forward to watching him grow and become the artist he dreams of becoming. There is no doubt in my mind he will do exactly that. It is a real gift to witness and watch his long musical career ahead of him.''
''You can check out all the stories and hear the songs we talked about in my interview with rising star ''Owen Barney'' right HERE!
Born and raised in Toronto, country artist Owen Barney has been strumming the guitar since he was just 7 years old, influenced by country heavy-hitters EricChurch, Steve Earle, and Jason Aldean. He has played shows around Toronto from the age of 14 and has spent the last few years honing his skills as a performer. “Barney’s maturity and natural talent as a performer allow him to be a storyteller so young in his career,” says Front Porch Music, while Canadian Beats commends Owen’s ability to “fuse soulful songwriting and easy breezy vocals.”
2020 has been a landmark year for this rising star, with over 7.5 million global streams and a chart-topping summer smash “Thank Her For That”. The timing couldn’t be better for the release of his brand new EP No Road Too Long featuring his latest single “Pour Me," a lighthearted song that reflects on dealing with hard times. This release follows a big month for Owen; being named the Amazon Breakthrough Artist of the Month, hitting over 320K views on his most recent music video for "Thank Her For That", topping the Shazam charts, and a partnership with iconic Canadian brand Roots. Check out the first ever Roots Muskoka Cottage Country Concert (socially distanced) here. The momentum is happening and will be followed by some exciting surprises in the new year!
Country Duo
