The band made their first stop in Canada in Hamilton, ON on November 9th, with more stops in London, ON on November 10th, Charlottetown, PEI on November 14th, Halifax, NS on November 15th, Moncton, NB on November 17th, Montreal, QC on November 18th and Parry Sound, ON on November 20th, among many others.
The tour follows the band’s most recent EP, Capsize. The EP encompasses stories of reckoning, redemption, nostalgia, and hope that see Texas King’s Jordan Macdonald (Vocals & Guitar), Melvin Murray (Drums), and Phil Spina (Bass) follow up from where their 2021 EP, Changes, left off. It includes Texas King’s hit single “Whatever You Break,” a driving power ballad, which peaked at #4 on the Active Rock chart and was #1 on the recurrent chart, making it the band’s highest charting single to date. The song was produced by Brian Moncarz, along with the EP’s title tracks “Capsize” and “Rely On Me”.
Texas King has put 250,000 miles into their van over the past decade – touring all over North America alongside acts including Last Dinosaurs, and The Glorious Sons. Since 2013, they’ve been cutting their teeth on the road and in the studio, releasing music that captures the show-stopping passion they’ve brought to stages that include Vancouver’s Ambleside Festival, Ontario’s ParkJam and Hillside Festivals, and Québec’s Festival D’été.
Scotty Emerick was destined to be a musician and songwriter. He started playing guitar at the age of 6 and almost immediately was performing at family gatherings. By the time he was 11 or 12, Scotty was playing Moose Lodges and VFW halls. Scotty was swept away by the music, and before he’d even finished high school, he knew he had to go to Nashville and seek his fate. He says, “My father got me into Hank Williams Sr., then I graduated to Hank Jr... I was reading liner notes, who wrote all the songs, who played on everything.''
‘’I knew Nashville was where I could go for the same kind of music. I couldn’t get there fast enough.”
There was no looking back for the boy who knew of blazing honky tonk singer Gary Stewart, a mythic local hero, if only from the occasional sightings of the ragingly troubled country sensation in Vero Beach, where Emerick ultimately grew up. Stewart was emerging from a too-combustive, failed-to-launch duo with future Country Music Hall of Famer Dean Dillon, the single most recorded writer in George Strait’s catalogue.
‘’Scotty Emerickhas an incredible history as a songwriter working with the best of the best in country music,'' says, Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine and host of the International Music's Journey Podcast. ‘’I had the pleasure to sit down with Dean Dillion to do an interview in 2022 and he would tell me stories about meeting this great songwriter named, ‘’Scotty Emerick.'' ‘’Dean would talk about the style of writing that he loved and Scotty was one of those artists that I needed to reach out to. Dean loved Scotty and he was amazed by just how talented Scotty is. ‘’The man can write just what your heart needs,'' he said. ‘’That boy can write,' says Dean Dillon.
‘’After I finished the interview with Dean Dillion, I started to do some research on the history of Scotty Emerick and I knew I needed to get him on the show to talk about his history with country music. There is something about the songwriting process that just seems to come so easily to some artists and Scotty reminded me of Dean Dillon. You can understand why so many of the best in country music over the past fifty years like Toby Keith, Dean Dillon, Kenny Chesney, the late Jimmy Buffett, Sawyer Brown, Willie Nelson, Red Lane, Hank Cochran, Mac McAnally, and so many more worked with Scotty Emerick as their go-to songwriter of choice. That says it all, doesn't it? He is just that good!''
This interview is one that you don't want to miss! It is jam-packed full of music that we all know and love with the stories that were created by a brotherhood of friends that changed lives all over the world with their songs!
Ironic, as Dillon would become one of many mentors for Emerick, who would go on to assume the same role as Dillon in Toby Keith’s career. Laughing, the sandy-haired Emerick admits when talking about serving as the creative foil for the Academy of Country Music Entertainer of the Year and Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient, “When I grabbed a guitar, it was 24/7. I slept with it. Toby and I’d do shows: I’d do my show, he’d do his, then we’d get back on the bus, and we’d be back at it. Just making up songs, it was so completely creative. That’s all we did, all the time... We sparked so much, it opened up my mind.”
But we’re ahead of ourselves. Straight out of high school, the kid who grew up on the water – “summertime was the ocean, fall, and winter is freshwater fishing and airboats” – headed to the middle of America to chase his dream. Landing a job bussing tables at the Spaghetti Factory downtown, he started knocking on doors and making the rounds.
“The first month, I was down on Music Row and someone told me I should meet Bryan White, who was the same age,” he recalls. The teenagers had big dreams, but while both were consumed with music, White had a plan. He wanted a record deal within a year and got one with Asylum, where he would release two platinum records, win awards, and live the life.
Emerick wanted something a little richer creatively: to live the life, to write the songs, to sop up all the wisdom you could find hanging out with Dillon, Red Lane, and more old-school writers.
“Red Lane lived in an old airplane out in Ashland City,” he explains, clearly delighted. “His best friend was Hank Cochran. He was a fabulous guitar player and songwriter, of “Miss Emily’s Picture,” and Haggard’s “My Own Kind of Hat” just to name a very few.
“He really took me under his wing. I sought him out, because I knew how good he was, and he let me be around so much.”
That notion of friendship and support saw Emerick, White, and Sawyer Brown leader Mark Miller sit down to write a song. They not only crafted “I Don’t Believe In Good-Bye,” which hit Country’s Top 5, but Miller invited the 19-year-olds down to Muscle Shoals where the legendary Mac McAnally produced the band.
Once again, the young songwriter, who was consumed by music, took in everything around him. Beyond the iconic studio and famous Muscle Shoals rhythm section of David Hood on bass and Roger Hawkins on drums, he stayed in touch with McAnally. It’s a relationship that’s seen the two men share stages – along with a certain Floridian songwriter/lifestyle chronicler named Jimmy Buffett – over the last three decades.
“That was so long and so many miles ago,” he marvels. “I was just working on playing, singing and writing. I was just chasing being in Nashville... or maybe staying there. I was living the dream, wherever it was going to take me. I was living in the moment, pretty much day by day.”
Even before he ran off and joined Toby Keith’s traveling road show, the likable Emerick was forging relationships with the greatest songwriters of the past fifty years. Impressed by his knowledge of not just the songs and the stars, but the people who wrote them, played on them, produced and engineered them, anyone who came in contact with the emerging writer – from Willie Nelson and George Strait to Kenny Chesney and Keith – kept having him come around.
Those artists liked his creative juice, the way life just flows through his songs. And if he had deals with DreamWorks Nashville (“briefly”) and Rising Tide (“very briefly”), yielding one album for DreamWorks and a few singles on Show Dog, it hasn’t stopped an eclectic group of top-shelf artists from Eric Church, Alan Jackson, Sammy Hagar, Ronnie Milsap, Billy Currington, Gary Allen, and Del McCoury, as well as the above names, from making Emerick’s songs their own.
To that end, Emerick’s ability for channeling authenticity into what he writes has seen him earn Nashville Songwriters Association International’s Songwriter of the Year, in addition to picking up Best Country Song Grammy and Country Music Association nominations. There are some things you can’t fake, and that’s what makes the retiring Emerick such a lethal weapon.
“You don’t get known for the things that don’t happen, you only get known for the things that do,” he shrugs. “There’s a lot of things that don’t happen or fall through, but even in getting that far, the adventures you have...”
Let’s talk – or sing – about those adventures, shall we? How about Keith’s #1s “I’m Just Talkin’ About Tonight,” “I Love This Bar,” “Whiskey Girl,” “As Good as I Once Was” and the driving Willie Nelson duet “Beer for My Horses”? Or Keith’s Top 5’s “Get Drunk and Be Somebody” and “A Little Too Late? How about the 46 other Keith cuts?
Toby Keith - Beer for My Horses ft. Willie Nelson
Toby Keith - I'm Just Talkin' About Tonight
Toby Keith - I Love This Bar
Toby Keith - As Good As I Once Was
“We both loved the same kinds of songs, and we both knew what it takes to create them. We pushed each other – and that’s the exciting part of doing this. Once you lock in creatively, you have no idea how far you can go. Or who you’ll go with.''
“I think about Muscle Shoals, it was the first time I saw a lava lamp, all those album credits I’d read those names on. It was crazy. I mean, Mac played on (Hank Jr.’s) Family Tradition. There’s someone who never changed, always the same and always so talented. He was a good barometer then – and still is – for how far we have to go to get up there.”
Getting up there means having a song on Willie Nelson’s Grammy-winning album A Beautiful Time, as well as co-writing the Nelson-inspired “I’ll Never Smoke Weed With Willie Again.” It means doing writer's nights with folks like Dean Dillon all over the world, USO Tours in the Far East, Middle East and anywhere our men and women are deployed, to sit in Antarctica with Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band and jumping up onstage with many of country’s biggest headliners.
Jimmy Buffett - Like My Dog
Toby Keith- Scotty Emerick - Willie Nelson - I'll Will Never Smoke Weed With Willie Again
While some people come to Nashville with a plan and a defined sense of making it, Emerick just knew he wanted to be where the music was, to suck up knowledge and exhale songs. Three decades in, not much has changed for the guy with the cock-eyed smile whose songs have helped sell tens of millions of albums.
“I’ve never thought of music as a job,” he concludes. “If it ever started to, I’d retreat... to keep that hunger inside me. I’ve always felt this was something more, something almost middle-aged crazy and fun. You know, I believe in hope, which is the best of all things in my situation. If there’s one thing I’ve learned it’s that something else, something good will happen. Maybe even something you couldn’t imagine, but is even better.
The concert features Niceforo’s incredible vocals alongside the Cambridge Symphony Orchestra led by Maestro Sabatino Vacca and the Casa Loma Symphony Orchestra led by Maestro Paolo Busato, who will be featured on piano and Roy Thomson Hall’s Gabriel Kney Pipe Organ. The night will also feature performances from international opera singer Sara Papini, and Singing Out, Toronto’s largest 2SLGBTQQIA+ choir. The night will be hosted by Canadian journalist, media personality, philanthropist, and Order of Canada recipient, Jeanne Beker.
Tickets for Harmonizing Hearts - Music for a Cause went on sale on Friday, September 8th, and are available HERE. Tickets start at $60 (plus service fees), and limited VIP packages are available for $150 and include a meet & greet and premium seats.
In recognition of World AIDS Day (December 1, 2023), proceeds from the event will support the important work of CANFAR, Canada’s only independent charitable foundation dedicated to ending Canada’s HIV epidemic through innovative research and strategic implementation projects. This research has led to incredible advances in HIV treatment, care, and prevention that have transformed the landscape of HIV/AIDS in Canada, but there’s still significant work to be done to end HIV as a public health threat.
"Sharing the Harmonizing Hearts stage with the Casa Loma Symphony Orchestra, the Cambridge Symphony Orchestra, and the members of Singing Out, as well as joining forces with the extraordinary operatic soprano Sara Papini, is a dream come true,” says Joey Niceforo. “Graced by the presence of Toronto Icon Jeanne Beker as our host, this evening promises to be full of emotion and artistry, celebrating diversity and unity. This performance holds a special place in my heart as it marks my debut at Toronto's iconic Roy Thomson Hall. The prospect of bringing my music to this grand stage, accompanied by a full orchestra and the harmonious voices of Singing Out fills me with both joy and nervous excitement. Beyond the music, I am equally thrilled to contribute to the noble cause of CANFAR, standing together in support of their endeavors leading up to World AIDS Day on December 1st.”
“World AIDS Day has become a symbol, a beacon of hope for all communities and populations impacted by HIV and AIDS,” says Alex Filiatrault, CANFAR CEO. “Funds raised through Harmonizing Hearts will allow CANFAR to reach the most underserved communities by investing in everything from access to HIV self-testing to expanding our national youth HIV awareness platform, which currently reaches over 1.5 million youth across the country."
K: Could you introduce yourself to our readers?
Joey: ‘’I grew up in Sudbury, Ontario studying voice at a convent with a French-Canadian nun. I then moved to Toronto to pursue my post-secondary education in classical music, studying for four years at the Glenn Gould School at the Royal Conservatory of Music. My training continued for an additional two years at the University of Toronto’s Opera School. During this time, I also spent a year studying in Siena, Italy at L’Universita Per Strainer and Chigi (the local conservatory).''
Joey: ‘’After graduating from U of T, I had the opportunity to be one of the original members of the Canadian Tenors; from there I went on to form a group called Destino. In both of these groups, I had the incredible opportunity, with my colleagues, to tour around the globe with performances including two Olympic Games and the famed Carnegie Hall. I immensely enjoyed this time in my life.
When it was time for this chapter to end, I was at a fork in the road so to speak. I now consider myself a “new classical” singer, a phrase I began using during the release phase of my debut album Pricelesswhich I recorded at Abbey Road Studios in London, England. A very dear friend offered me the chance of a lifetime to record a solo album; but she stipulated that if we were going to do it we were going to do it to the best quality possible. This is what led to Priceless!
Priceless went on to debut at number #3 on the iTunes Canada charts and has hit the top 100 charts in Ireland, Australia, the USA and South Africa since its launch.''
K: Can you share your musical journey with us and who was the artist you looked up to growing up?
‘’To name just one would be difficult for me. I grew up listening to country music like Tammy Wynette, George Jones, Garth Brooks, and Dolly Parton. It influenced me, but my voice isn’t suited to country music.
I also grew up listening to a lot of Dean Martin and Frank Sinatra, Connie Francis, Elvis Presley, Rita MacNeil, and a bit of Opera as my father had some records of Pavarotti.
Later on in my early teens I LOVED listening to Celine Dion, but what really inspired me to sing was listening to the original The Three Tenors album. This was the first time I listened to music and cried, and it set off emotions in me that I had never felt before. When I began to try and imitate them, poorly at first I might add lol, it was the start of my music journey.
Today, my favourite go-to artists are Shirley Bassey, Edith Piaf, Maria Callas, Judy Garland, Charles Aznavour, Elton John, and Celine Dion.''
K: You have been an inspiration to so many who love the Canadian Tenors. What has it meant to you to be a part of the Canadian Tenors?
Joey: ‘’I was so lucky to have been a part of this group. I auditioned while I was still at the opera school at U of T, and this was a different world from that of opera. We had to speak and interact with the audience which I found extremely difficult, and I also was a very unsure singer at that time as well, so between the lack of stage know-how and consistent singing abilities I had a hard time at first. The experience forced me to get better, to learn from my other talented colleagues, and with the constant touring, it gave me incredible opportunities to try different things out to see what worked and didn’t work.''
K: Who is your favorite singer of all time?
Joey: ‘’If I have to pick 3… Pavarotti, Maria Callas, and Shirley Bassey.''
K: What is the most memorable performance for you so far in your career?
Joey: ‘’I have to say I’ve been very lucky with the performances I’ve had so far in my career, with the people I’ve performed with and for, and also the places I’ve sung. The most memorable concert, which may seem insignificant, was at a small historic venue called The Sharon Temple. This took place a few years ago. I had always been in groups sharing the stage with some amazing people and had never really done any solo work so I felt like that was my crutch. After The Canadian Tenors and Destino ended, I was going to quit singing and maybe go back to school, but I have some pretty amazing people in my life who convinced me to try and go ‘solo’. The Sharon Temple performance was my first ever ‘Joey’ concert and I was incredibly nervous not knowing if I could pull something off with just me on stage. The concert in my mind was a success even though there wasn’t a large amount of people in attendance. What mattered most was that I pulled it off, so knowing I could do it alone was a big turning point for me.''
K: What was the first concert you ever attended?
Joey: ‘’My mother used to take me to all kinds of concerts growing up, but one of the first ones I remember are Canadian singers Carroll Baker or Rita MacNeil.''
K: Tell us about the inspiration behind ‘’Harmonizing Hearts – Music for a Cause’’ and how the idea for this event came about.
Joey: ‘’The idea of the show came from one of the producers of my album Priceless. We were out for dinner, and he asked if I had ever performed at Roy Thomson Hall. I never have and he suggested that he would like to produce a concert there. Not only for me but for and with people in the community. We set out to do something for a good cause and bring in friends and colleagues that I’ve worked with before.''
K: The event features an impressive lineup of talents, including orchestras and other vocalists. How did you go about selecting the performers for this special event?
Joey: ‘’I’ve been lucky enough to be a regular performer for the past two years at the Casa Loma music series (‘Symphony in the Gardens - Casa Loma’ and ‘Twilight Symphony at the Castle’) under the direction of my friend Maestro Paolo Busato. I also recently performed with another friend of mine Maestro Sabatino Vacca with the Cambridge Symphony Orchestra.
We thought it would be amazing to combine these two great community orchestras as well as add my dear friend and colleague, soprano Sara Papini. Throughout my career, I have probably sung with Sara more than anyone else. Her voice and stage presence are incredible, and our friendship and mutual respect brings out a natural dynamic between the two of us on stage. She’s also a regular at the Casa Loma concerts.
Jackie Richardson is an award-winning singer and actor whose career spans more than five decades. She has been called the reigning queen of Canadian jazz, blues, and gospel. We approached her management team, not ever thinking she would say yes, and we were thrilled when we were informed she would love to be a part of the show! I’m also excited to have Singing Out bring their voices to the stage and to have Canadian icon Jeanne Beker host the evening.''
K: Hosting the event is Canadian Journalist and Media Personality, Jeanne Beker, who is also an Order of Canada recipient. Can you tell us about choosing Jeanne Beker as the event host?
Joey: ‘’We needed someone at the helm who could bring all of us together and be the MC for the evening. Our first thought, hope, and wish list was our friend, Toronto’s very own Canadian icon Jeanne Beker. When my manager called her and asked she didn’t hesitate. She agreed to be our Mistress of Ceremonies for the evening. Needless to say, we were BEYOND thrilled! Jeanne has also been a long-time supporter of CANFAR and has been given a patron award for this commitment. We are so lucky to have her participation in the show.''
K: As an artist and advocate, how important has it been for you to use your own platform in music to help raise awareness about the importance of social and health issues, such as HIV/AIDS?
Joey: ‘’We wanted to partner with an organization that could benefit from the event. Although there are many worthy and wonderful organizations, the first one that came to mind was CANFAR (The Canadian Foundation for AIDS Research). We have supported the organization and its work for years and were honoured when Alex Filiatrault (CANFAR CEO) agreed to be a part of this concert. Not only do they do amazing work within communities across Canada for people living with HIV/AIDS, but they have also contributed invaluable scientific work for prevention and education. We are honoured to partner with them at this event.‘’
K: Will this evening be available for streaming for those who may not be able to attend?
Joey: ‘’People can support by attending the event and tickets are available via the Roy Thomson Hall website here. If you're unable to attend the show but would like to support CANFAR, I encourage you to visit canfar.org to support their incredible work.''
Niceforo is excited to share the Harmonizing Hearts stage with marvelous guest performers. Sara Papini is a JUNO Award-nominated internationally renowned opera singer who has graced stages around the world. She made her New York City debut in the role of Tina in Jonathan Dove's Flight. She has performed under the baton of Metropolitan Opera conductor Paul Nadler in New York, Montreal, Virginia, and Tel Aviv, Israel with the Israeli Chamber Orchestra. In Toronto, she is a frequent performer with the Casa Loma Symphony Orchestra.
Sara Papini
The Cambridge Symphony Orchestra (CSO) was born out of a gathering of several classical musicians and officially began in 2005. The orchestra is led by Musical Director, Maestro Sabatino Vacca, and as the cultural hub of the musical community, the CSO helps to promote artistic growth and development in the Cambridge area. Highlights have included performing with tenor Ben Heppner, bass-baritone Gary Relyea, baritone James Westman, the River Run Chorus, a special Verdi Anniversary concert with tenor Richard Margison, and annual concerts in partnership with Drayton Entertainment.
Maestro Sabatino Vacca
The Casa Loma Symphony Orchestra was founded in 2019 by Artistic Director, Maestro PaoloBusato and Executive Director, Catriona Delaney. The CLSO is the Orchestra in Residence at Casa Loma, performing the Symphony in the Gardens season, Castle by Candlelight, and more, and led by Maestro Paolo Busato.
Singing Out
Singing Out is Toronto’s largest 2SLGBTQQIA+ choir. They are a mixed-voice, non-auditioned choir and sing with pride. Singing Out is much more than just a choir - above all, Singing Out is a community with a mission of pride, music, and belonging.
Joey Niceforo made his professional debut in 2005 when he joined the original Canadian Tenors. He then formed his classical crossover ensemble Destino in 2006, which toured internationally, including performances at the Beijing and Vancouver Olympics, Carnegie Hall in New York City, the Miss America Pageant in Las Vegas, and a national tour with the Rankin Family. Joey has performed across Canada, the United States, Italy, Czech Republic, and China, mesmerizing audiences with his voice and dynamic performances. Niceforo has performed alongside artists such as Jennifer Hudson, Tom Cochrane, and Marie Osmond.
Niceforo recorded his debut solo album Priceless at Abbey Road Studios in London, England which debuted on iTunes Canada at #3 and has hit the top 100 charts in Ireland, Australia, the United States, and South Africa. It was produced by Grammy Award-winning John Jones (Celine Dion, Duran Duran), Grammy award-winning and Tony Nominated Steve Sidwell (2012 Olympics, Moulin Rouge, Sarah Brightman, Michael Buble) and Sam Reid (Glass Tiger). Niceforo will be touring the U.S. and Canada in 2023-2024 and is enjoying his residency as a featured guest artist with the Casa Loma Symphony series.
Bowmanville’s own Meghan Patrick took to the stage at a number of Canadian stops to thrill her fans with a night of songs and stories this October.
Pulling selections from her latest EP, Greatest Show on Dirt, as well as her extensive list of hits and fan favorites. Patrick explored themes both light and dark, such as her exploration of Christianity and her recent marriage to fellow Nashville singer-songwriter, Mitchell Tenpenny, with her latest single, “God and a Good Man”, domestic violence with “The Boy Who Cried Drunk,” and of course, her first hit and celebration of her music with “Country Music Made Me.”
Award-winning country artist Meghan Patrick was excited to be returning to Canada with tour stops in Vancouver, Kelowna, Ottawa, and London this October.
‘’I had the chance to catch up with country star Meghan Patrick to talk about her new Canadian headlining tour and her new music, ‘’ says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine and host of the Music's Journey Podcast. ‘’I have been such a fan of Meghan's from day one. There was something so special about her from the start. She had a vision for herself in this music industry that I admired and have mad respect for. Meghan has put in the hard work that has brought her to that place of wisdom and understanding in believing in herself and following that gut instinct, she always had. Going through all the tough decisions that Meghan has in her musical journey and seeing that fire and desire to do this music thing right is the reason she is the trailblazer that so many look up to, including me. She is a true country star here in Canada and all around the world. Her real story has just begun.''
We have all dubbed this year as the year of Meghan Patrick. And is it ever!!
K: When you look back at the beginning of your career in music and the approach that you had set out for this year of not necessarily focusing on the goals or specific milestones, but the energy you put into things…tell us about that new outlook this year and your thought process heading into 2023.
Meghan: ‘’It really has been an incredible year, and I’m very proud of what my team and I have accomplished. There are a lot of things in this industry that are out of my control, so dubbing 2023 “The Year of MFP” was more about manifesting being my most authentic best self, than about trying to reach specific accomplishments. I chose to focus on what actually is in my control - making music I love that has meaning, working with people who have the same mindset about how to reach that success, and making bold moves that are true to who I am. I spent a lot of my early career making decisions often based on other people’s vision of who I needed to be to be successful because I was young and new to the industry and it was what I thought I needed to do to reach certain milestones. I know now, that success only really feels good when you make it there on your own terms. I realized that when you focus on making quality art that resonates with your fans, and you work on becoming your best self, the success and milestones you want to reach, that are meant for you, will naturally follow. I have never been more proud than I am now of the music I’m putting out, and the impact it is having on the people who are listening. I plan to continue this same approach and energy going into the new year, I have a ton of great songs I can’t wait to put out.''
K: It has been crazy cool to watch your career from the beginning and all that you have accomplished as a woman in Canadian country music. It is so amazing to see you in your artistry today, kicking some serious butt…you are so grounded this year in a way that is hard to put into words but everyone can see that calmness…your openness about faith, and the role that plays both in your marriage with Mitchell Tenpenny and for you personally.
I know the last few years have been trying on most people but there has been a lot of change for you…. Tell us a bit about that and what faith has brought to your life…the certainty you can see with the path you are on today!
Meghan: ‘’If you had told me years ago that I would be willing to boldly share so much of my story and my faith, I wouldn’t have believed it. The last few years have been incredibly challenging for so many people, and I am no different. When the pandemic hit, I felt like I was on top of the world with so many of my biggest dreams right within my reach. I had just signed my US record deal, I was on my first headlining tour in Canada, selling out venues, and I was finally in a happy and supportive relationship. Then what felt like overnight, it all got ripped away with seemingly no light at the end of the tunnel for a long time. It was the first time in my life I ever considered that maybe I had gone as far as I could go in my career, I had really lost a lot of faith in myself, and I was really depressed. Not long after things started opening back up, I was dropped from my Canadian label after spending almost a year begging them to let me release music. I had felt trapped, then unwanted, and like a failure, like everything I had built was crumbling and I didn’t know how to stop it. Finally, I just got tired of feeling sorry for myself, I shifted my focus to the one thing I could control, which was writing songs. I challenged myself to dig deeper and write the kind of songs I never thought I could because the label wouldn’t like them, or radio wouldn’t play them. Most importantly, I gave it to God. I prayed and told Him what my new idea of success looked like, and asked for the courage and wisdom to pursue it. That decision was where the shift really happened for me, it released me from feeling like I had to micromanage every aspect of my career, and it gave me faith that the opportunities meant for me would come, and that when things I wanted didn’t happen, it wasn’t because I wasn’t good enough or undeserving. They simply weren’t meant for me and better things were on the horizon.''
‘’In addition to my faith, I had unwavering support and motivation from my husband… he had struggles of his own, but he never gave up on me or let me suffer alone. He gave me unconditional love and grace, and also let me know when it was time to pull myself up by my bootstraps. I also finally landed on the right manager, Randi McFadden. I wouldn’t be where I am without her. She is smart, ambitious, and hard-working, but she also leads with her heart. Our motto is we do things the right way even when it’s the hard way, and we agree that no amount of success is worth sacrificing who we are, and the kind of people we want to be.''
K: I know it is hard when you have a vision of what you want for yourself in your musical career, how that looks to you may not be what the industry may have seen for you…or where they thought you fit in country music. Was it hard to reposition yourself to fight for what you wanted as your vision for your music moving forward and not concern yourself with looking for validation from others? Believing in yourself and trusting your own instincts…
Meghan: “I would say it was hard getting to a place where I had the courage to change the way I was approaching my career, but actually putting it into action was easy. It felt like a weight off my shoulders, like I could take a deep breath for the first time in a while. When you want something so bad, for so long, and it’s not happening how/when you hoped, you get desperate. I know I was, and I thought if I just kept doing what everyone told me to do, and I was a good little soldier, eventually I would win and get to a place where I could call the shots. I could look back and be ashamed of myself for giving into that mentality, but the truth is it happens to most artists at some point in their careers. Especially when you’ve had a taste of that success and you feel it slipping away and you want to do whatever you can to hold onto it.''
‘’At the end of the day, I realized that if I was gonna fall on anyone’s sword, I’d rather it be my own. Even with great songs, and incredible effort, sometimes the stars just don’t line up, but I know now that I will never regret putting out music I love, whether or not the awards shows, radio, or the industry embrace them, I will regret sacrificing who I am to “win” on someone else’s terms. A lot of people and “gatekeepers” in the industry are just as scared as us artists. They don’t really have the answers either, and they are just trying to find the easiest path of least resistance to success and making money. They are rarely in the crowd at your shows, and they aren’t reading the DM’s from your fans telling you how a song you released changed their lives… all they know is a formula that has already worked for someone else. I’m no longer interested in that formula. I’m interested in creating my own original path and doing it in a way that will make me and my team proud when I get to where we’re going.''
K: It is so key to surround yourself with the people and a team that have the same outlook and are on the same page as you are. What has it meant to you to finally have that in place and see the incredible things that have taken place for you this year?
Meghan: ‘’I can’t say enough about the incredible team I’ve been lucky to surround myself with. They aren’t just amazing at what they do, they are family, and I know that they don’t just care about my success, but also my mental, emotional, and physical well-being. I have watched a lot of artists get run into the ground by a team that has prioritized money and success over the person. It can be a delicate balance to maintain, but I know my team has my back. I also love that my team is largely comprised of powerful women. I didn’t choose to work with them because they’re women, I chose them because there is no one better to do the job, and that is how you create positive change in how women are viewed in the industry… it isn’t a performative statement, the proof is in the pudding. I feel truly blessed to have Randi leading the charge as my manager, and I am also incredibly grateful to have Chris Kappy, founder of Make Wake, in our corner as a great mentor and advisor. I truly admire the career he and Luke Combs have built together and it gives me so much hope knowing that sometimes, good people can, and do win in this industry. I have also found an incredible cheerleader and friend in, the head of my label Riser House, Jennifer Johnson. As a female president of a new indie label, I know the pressure on her is immense, and yet she has taken a chance on giving me the freedom to be myself, take risks, and blaze my own trail, and that is a rare, but great leader.''
K: I am so thrilled to see you surrounded by a team that champions you and lifts you up…you deserve this with all the sacrifice and hard work you have put into your career. You are amazing and truly inspiring to us all in the music industry and to your fans.
I would imagine that one of those stand-out moments for you was hearing about being asked to debut on the greatest show on earth and hearing from Terri Clark about making your debut on the Opry…tell us how you received that news.
Meghan: ‘’I was actually shooting the music video for my song “Ours”. As I walked on set thinking we were about to start shooting, my director Ford Fairchild said, “Oh that’s weird, why is Terri Clark FaceTiming me?” I just assumed they worked together and jumped up to jokingly tell her we were busy working, still having NO clue what was about to happen. Ford handed me the phone, and Terri said she just had a quick question for me and wanted to know what I was doing on April 11th. Still clueless, I looked up at Randi to ask her if I was busy haha, still not realizing everyone had their phones up, taking video, and Randi had Mitchell on FaceTime so he could watch it all go down. That’s when Terri said, “Well I know what you’ll be doing… You’ll be making your debut at The Grand Ole Opry” and I just burst into tears. All at once, all the hurt of feeling so undervalued, and unwanted as an artist for years, was released. I felt like all I had heard for so long was “No, not good enough” and now I was getting the biggest YES of my career, and it was coming from one of my heroes. It was a moment I’ll never forget.''
K: I know that Terri is a good friend and a mentor to you in many ways. What was it like getting that news from Terri personally?
Meghan: ‘’I can’t imagine that moment being any better than it was. I look up to Terri for so many reasons… her songwriting, her musicianship, her big heart, the fact that she is one of few Canadian women to succeed in country music at an international level, and the list goes on. She’s also a damn good golfer and a great angler too.''
K: Can you describe that feeling you had when you received a standing ovation at the Grand Ole Opry for your debut?
Meghan: ‘’At the risk of sounding cliche, it felt like a dream come true…I’m tearing up now just thinking about it. The truth is, a lot of things we strive for in our careers sometimes don’t end up feeling the way we think they will. In fact, it’s like you’re immediately thinking, what’s next? How do I beat this? My Opry debut and the memory of it, is truly that it was a perfect night, a perfect moment. Just stepping into the circle would have been more than enough, but to have that moment be followed by a standing ovation, and then my first gold record as an artist?! Not to mention, Wild As Me is the first song I ever wrote about my now husband, and I wrote it with two of my best friends. I truly thought I was gonna wake up at any moment and know it was all a dream.''
K: I can’t imagine keeping yourself together when they surprised you by presenting you with a gold record backstage…I don't know how you were able to keep yourself together just coming off the stage from that standing O moment to this insane surprise.
That perfect moment…a song that you wrote about Mitchell…
You announced your new album on the Opry stage…Greatest Show On Dirt…what does it feel like for you to put out a body of work like this one?
Meghan: ‘’It felt amazing to get to announce that record release on such a legendary stage. Greatest Show On Dirt is the record that represents “The Year Of MFP”, and the era of me truly coming into my own. To announce the release of that record standing where all my heroes have stood, felt like a really good omen.''
K: These moments are and will be there for you for a lifetime. What I always tell myself is the lows are what help you with character building…the lows prepare you for the incredible highs that will follow. What advice would you give a younger Meghan Patrick today learning all that you have with the success in your career so far?
Meghan: ‘’I would say, don’t you dare give up. Remember that you wanted to do things the right way, not the easy way, and that takes time and perseverance. Remember that you don’t want success from songs that mean nothing to you. Remember that you got into this for the love of the music, for the fans, to change lives, to empower people, and to make an impact, not for validation from an industry that doesn’t know you, or care about you unless you’re making them money. Remember that the highs are temporary, but so are the lows. Remember that it’s about the journey, not the destination, and this is a marathon, not a sprint. Remember that God will bless you with what is meant for you, and protect you from what isn’t if you’ll get out of your own way. Most of all, listen to your heart and follow your gut.''
K: What is the one thing that you fear the most?
Meghan: ‘’I fear nothing! Haha just kidding. I think the thing I fear most, is making decisions and sacrifices out of fear. I want to live life bravely, unapologetically, and in a way that I can be proud of, and that the people I love can be proud of. ‘’
K: Let’s talk about your new music…
Tell us about co-writing ‘’The Boy Who Cried Drunk'' and how important it was to shine a light on a difficult subject that was all too familiar in your own life.
Meghan: ‘’To be honest, I had been sitting on that idea for a while, waiting for the right room to bring it into, waiting for the right moment. I definitely hadn’t planned to write that song that day. When I walked in, Billy Dawson was sitting there with a baritone guitar playing this riff, and I absolutely loved it. It was the first time I had ever met Jacob Hackworth, and as I was looking through my “hook book” for a song idea, I came across ‘’The Boy Who Cried Drunk.'' I looked up at Jacob and said, “I know we just met, but how heavy are you willing to get in this write today? Cuz I have an idea, and this guitar riff feels perfect for it”. I explained my idea, and they both loved it. I told them both a little bit about my story and what I had been through, and I knew right away that I was in a safe place, and I was ready to write that song. I never would have thought I would write something like that with two men I barely knew, but I have so much love and respect for the way they both handled it. They gave me all the space in that room to tell my story the way I wanted to. They made me feel comfortable and like they had my back. They both are amazing writers who brought so many great moments to that song and I think we all knew we had something special that day.''
Each year, more than 12 Million people across the nation experience some form of domestic violence and Meghan Patrick is shining a light on domestic violence survivors through the release of her new single “The Boy Who Cried Drunk (The Demo),” available now via Riser House Records / The Orchard on all streaming platforms. Written by Patrick alongside Billy Dawson and Jacob Hackworth, the thought-provoking track details the telltale warning signs that come with a toxic partner, as Patrick sings of an all-too-familiar story from her past – one that she was able to escape and learn from – in the hopes of helping others leave or avoid stepping into her shoes, altogether.
K: In addition to this poignant track, you are currently raising money through next month for YWCA Nashville & Middle Tennessee, which operates the largest domestic violence shelter in Tennessee. You had hit the road with LANCO this fall, joining as direct support on select dates of the group’s headline ‘Run, Run, Baby Tour,’ which kicked off in Nashville on October 2nd. Tell us about that….
Meghan: ‘’I was already a big fan of the LANCO guys before this tour, but I am an even bigger one now. I’ll start with the incredible musicianship on that stage… their live show is so so good, they are all fantastic musicians, and Brandon is one hell of a frontman. I don’t always go out and watch every show for every artist I open for, but I’ve sacrificed a couple of hours of sleep more than once to stay and watch their set. I also have immense respect for the way they are coming back and rebuilding after some downtime. I know it ain’t easy, but I watch them give the same high-energy, entertaining show night after night, regardless of the crowd… I really look up to those guys, and they’ve become great friends.''
K: It has always been so important to you to deliver songs that are so authentic and true to you. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for sharing such an incredible song on a subject that we all need to help and use our platforms for. I also share a history of suffering domestic violence. What has been the response from fans once this song came out?
Meghan: ‘’The response has been overwhelming honestly. In a good way, It is definitely having a huge impact, which is what I hoped for, but it is also really heavy to know that it is having such an impact because so many people have experienced it. Some days I would get so many messages and DM’s that it just made me really angry and sad, especially when they were from people who are still in it. I felt so helpless in those moments and had to remind myself that change starts slow and small, and maybe I can’t save or help everyone, but at least this is a start. Although we released the song in honour of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, I plan to continue this work throughout my whole career. The more my platform grows, the more I will be able to help, and so for me, this is just the beginning. My dream is to eventually have my own foundation or charity, and I’m so grateful to everyone who has donated or helped me in my efforts. ‘’
Meghan Patrick - The Boy Who Cried Drunk (Demo)
K: Let's talk about your new single ‘’God and a Good Man''. This is a very special song. Tell us about the writing for this song. This song means everything to me. Like you, I share a very strong faith in my life and how that relationship in faith with someone you love is life-changing. How has meeting your husband Mitchell Tenpenny and the faith you share together, changed your life?
Meghan: ‘’The day I wrote this song, was the day I decided I was ready to be baptized. I was going to write with two of my best friends, Dallas Wilson and Trannie Anderson, and I knew that’s who I wanted to write it with. Not only are they close friends to both Mitchell and me, but they both have a strong faith and have been there for me many times in my journey to pray with me and answer my questions. As I was heading to the write, I started thinking about the many similarities between my relationship with God and with my husband. I’ll say this, I’m grateful they both had infinite patience and enough love to carry me through my doubts. They are both a safe place for me, and they both make me a better person every day, and I wanted to write a song to honour them.''
K: Tell us about the music video for God and a Good Man…
Meghan: ‘’We shot that video at my friends Colt and Ashlee’s farm. It’s always been kind of an escape and haven for me to get away from the city, and work and unwind. We’ve had many Sunday fundays, dinners, and days hunting there, and it’s just a beautiful spot that’s always a happy place for me. It’s definitely a place where I feel God all the time, so it felt like the perfect spot. ’
Meghan Patrick - God and A Good Man
K: You were out on your first headlining tour in Canada in Oct. Tell us about that…
Meghan: ‘’Well actually my first headlining shows in Canada were right before the pandemic, but this was the first time headlining in Canada since then. Playing a headlining tour is always incredibly nerve-racking because you feel very exposed in terms of wondering how many people are truly big enough fans to spend their hard-earned money just to see you. This year was especially scary because I felt like my career in Canada had really taken a hit from COVID, the loss of my record deal, and subsequently a lack of radio success over the past few years. Regardless of the tickets sold, I know that the fans I’ve made are for a lifetime. They are passionate, loyal, and kind people. It is an awesome feeling to know that there are people in the front row who have been in my front row for 7 plus years, and that tells me I must be doing something right!‘’
K: You have some new dates that start Nov 14th and heading into January of 2024. Tell us about that.
Meghan: ‘’Nov. 14th we put on what I hope was the first of many annual events. I hosted a writer's round at The Nashville Palace, and all proceeds went to benefit survivors of domestic violence through the YWCA. I’m so honoured to host some of my favourite artists and friends, and I was really excited to put on my first big event for a cause that is so near and dear to my heart.''
K: I am so thrilled and so happy for you for being an incredible woman who is a trailblazer in so many ways in Canadian country music. Thank you for being so vulnerable and strong to show how hard work pays off and for sticking to your gut with the kind of music you always wanted to release. You are kicking butt and we are all so proud of you. Congratulations on one hell of a year and your entire journey in music. I can’t wait to see what comes next for Meghan Patrick.
Tour Dates:
Nov 18th Eagle's Nest Rockin' Country Bar (Chesapeake, VA) w/ LANCOTickets
Jan 27th Hot Country Nights w/ Ponderosa & 99.5 The Wolf (Portland, OR) w/ Michael Ray Tickets
Jun 27th Ponoka Stampede (Ponoka, AB, Canada) Tickets
July 13th Country Thunder (Craven, Saskatchewan, Canada) Tickets
July 19th Amelia Earhart Festival (Atchison, KS) Tickets
Jul 21st Country Thunder Wisconsin (Twin Lakes, WI) Tickets
Aug 24th YQM Country Fest 2024 (Dieppe, NB, Canada) Tickets
Meghan Patrick - She's No Good For Me (Official Music Video)
About Meghan Patrick
Hailing from Bowmanville, ON, the now-Nashville resident released her debut album, Grace & Grit in 2016, leading to an avalanche of awards and recognition upon its release. Her sophomore album, Country Music Made Me Do It, yielded her first No.1 single at Canadian country radio with "Walls Come Down," followed by her JUNO Award-winning EP, Wild As Me (2019). Her latest album, Heart on My Glass (2021) also earned Meghan multiple CCMA and CMA Ontario Award nominations, including three CMAO Award wins.
Most recently, Meghan was nominated for the 2023 Canadian Country Music Association Award (CCMA) for Songwriter of The Year for "Greatest Show On Dirt”. The song is the title track of Meghan's recently released, deeply personal EP Greatest Show On Dirt, which features six tracks that define the new era of Patrick. Meghan made the EP announcement during her stunning debut performance at the Grand Ole Opry stage in April of this year, where she also received the news that she earned another career milestone with her first Canadian Gold certification for her song "Wild As Me."
Meghan Patrick - The Greatest Show On Dirt (Grand Ole Opry Performance)
Hailing from British Columbia, critically acclaimed and multiple award-winning Canadian country artist Chad Brownlee’s love of the outdoors is very much reflected in the singer-songwriter’s chart-topping songs and infectious melodies. Boasting over 125 MILLION global streams and numerous gold and platinum-certified singles, he has topped the Canadian country Billboard charts multiple times and reached No.1 with his platinum-selling single, “Forever’s Gotta Start Somewhere.” Brownlee's signature sound blends elements of pop, country, and rock, drawing equal inspiration from the classic country sounds of the 80s and the modern pop country sounds of the 2000s.
Brownlee's new single, "The Country Kind," is the first song from his forthcoming album. The track pays homage to the timeless charm of old-school country, infused with a vibrant modern twist.
As the song unfolds, Brownlee's emotive vocals shine, delivering lyrics that explore the deep connection to one's roots. “The Country Kind” captures the essence of a simple, peaceful life in the countryside and the enduring values that define the country way of life, and is Brownlee's first release since 2020.
‘’Brownlee's new single ‘’The Country Kind'' has the classic country roots that represent the core of who Brownlee really is. There is something pretty special about this song and watching the new music video expresses just that. The music video for ‘’The Country Kind'' captures the beauty that nature brings to one's soul. The simplicity of being out in nature grounds you and you can feel what you are watching getting lost in the music. It is the perfect song for Brownlee to release as the first single off the forthcoming new album.''
‘’Brownlee shares a lot of himself in this interview. I love interviews like this where we can dive a little deeper into the music and have a better look at the man behind the lyrics. Brownlee shares the exciting news of the second single coming out in the early months of 2024. He will be singing a duet with an incredible female country artist that we will all have to wait to see. I had a great time catching up and there are some cool facts that Brownlee shares in the Burning Questions portion of the show. To hear my interview with Chad Brownlee, go to www.musicsjourney.com or click on the link below.''
London-born and raised Genevieve Fisher has earned 9 top 50 hits on both Billboard’s BDS and Mediabase Canadian National Country Charts. While 2021 has been challenging for many artists, Genevieve achieved the most consecutive weeks on the national chart of her career during 2021. Her name entered onto the top 40, starting with the David James duet “Then There’s You”. This was immediately followed by her own solo Top 40 hit “Playing Favourites”. It was also the first time that her name appeared in the Top 40 with two different songs at the same time.
Genevieve has earned recognition within the Canadian Country Music scene by earning 6Female Artist of the Year nominations as well as numerous nominations for Single of the Year and Songwriter of the Year at the Country Music Association of Ontario Music Awards. While still in her teens, the Canadian Country Music Association recognized Genevieve’s emerging talent with her CCMA performance selection at the 2012 New Artist Showcase in Saskatoon. Her songwriting skills continue to be acknowledged by the CCMA as witnessed by her selection to perform for the prestigious Songwriters Series in 2016 and 2018.
Her Indigenous background has allowed her to register 3 number 1 hits on the North American Indigenous Music Countdown chart. Genevieve has had the opportunity to perform at some of the biggest music festivals in Canada including Boots and Hearts, Havelock Jamboree, Lucknow Music In The Fields, Manitoulin Country Fest, Trackside, and Indigenous Day Live. She has had and continues to have, the privilege of writing with some of Country Music's brightest songwriters including Jason Blaine, Steven Lee Olsen, Patricia Conroy, Michelle Wright, Jason Massey, Jennifer Schott, and many more.
Genevieve Fisher has had the good fortune to co-write with some of the brightest writers. Her latest single "Best Thing About The Rain" was no different. This track shares writing credits between Genevieve, Aaron Goodvin, and Jennifer Schott. Written during her last trip to Nashville in 2022, this song was an immediate "Must Release to Radio" consideration. As soon as she left the writing session, the wheels were put in motion to record the track for the purpose of sharing it across all platforms and radio. Her producer on the track was, once again, Nashville's Jason Massey with mixing by Billy Decker. Genevieve recorded her vocals in her Ontario home studio with the rest of the production being completed by Jason in Nashville.
‘’I had the pleasure of catching up with Genevieve Fisher to talk about her new single, balancing her career and family life,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine, radio host, and host of the International Music's Journey Podcast. ‘’Genevieve is one of the most special souls I have ever met. She sings like an angel and every note she sings leaves you completely captivated. If there is one artist to watch, it is Genevieve Fisher. I can't wait for this new chapter in her music. I dig deeper into the music industry and the personal challenges she has faced. Genevieve opens up about the struggles she faced balancing her life now that she is a mother and wife. The pressure that comes with being a career woman today! For this interview, we play a lot of music as well and Genevieve shares some exciting news about a new acting project so this one you don't want to miss. I also play a very important song at the end of the show that has not been released to radio yet. This is an exclusive sneak peek! I hope you love it as much as I do.''
''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 knows her way around a song and how to tap into that singer/songwriter storytelling magic very early on in her life with her tremendous success on so many different stages with top Canadian Country Superstars.'' ‘’Now that is impressive,'' says Cyr.
‘’Abby Stewart's new single ‘’Love's Gone'' shows a different side to this country singer/songwriter,'' says Cyr.
Simply put, we’ve all dated someone who makes us realize that we deserve better. In her new single, “Love’s Gone,” written by critically-acclaimed country superstar, Kelsea Ballerini. Abby Stewart reintroduces fans to her sound and style as she sings about embracing her power in a relationship, by leaving someone unworthy of her time and affection. This empowering and anthemic country tune inspires a sense of owning your self-worth and turning a moment of potential heartache, into one of liberation. The relatable lyrics, mixed with Abby’s powerhouse vocals, make this the song we didn’t know we needed but now have on repeat. This song is Abby Stewart like you’ve never heard her before - a young woman entering the next chapter of her life, with a sense of edginess, confidence, and maturity that is contagious for listeners. Abby isn’t sad that ‘love’s gone,’ but rather she embraces the freedom of knowing what she deserves and not settling for anything less.
Abby Stewart's sister, Annie Stewart will be making her debut as a director producing Abby's new music video for Love's Gone which is set to be released this Friday, July 7th so check it out.
Stewart shares her love of music and the experiences that lead her to where she is today, in her musical journey. Stewart's talent is undeniable. She has gained the respect as a storyteller and songwriter with fans all over the world and her star keeps on climbing. We chat about how much she missed growing up by being in the music industry so young and then seeing 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. Stewart's songwriting and vocals are something special that is full of emotion that carries the listener on a journey that takes years of practice to develop. Stewart has every bit of that and she continues to work hard at her craft.
‘’Abby Stewartis 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. I can't wait for you to hear this interview... 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 cake,'' says Cyr.
To hear what Jeff Dalziel taught Abby Stewart in the studio during the production of her new single ''Love's Gone'' and all the cool things she shares in my burning questions segment of the interview, go to www.musicsjourney.com or click on the link below.
Canadian country band River Town Saints are returning with their highly anticipated new single, "She Got That," on June 9. Good songs happen when a bunch of summer lovin' Ottawa Valley boys get together in Nashville with their buddy Jason Blaine. "She Got That," pays homage to a captivating girl who possesses that special allure, driving men to acts of foolishness. The song is sure to become a staple for summer playlists.
The vibrant summer jam perfectly encapsulates the essence of the season and marks their first release under their new recording deal with Sakamoto Music, distributed by Warner Music Canada.
Known for songs that match perfect summer nights, bonfires, and nights out on the town, “She Got That” reminds listeners that River Town Saints are here to make music that makes people feel good and want to have a good time.
Renowned for their energetic live show, rich vocal harmonies, and unwavering devotion to good times, the Saints have merely scratched the surface of their potential.
“We can’t wait for you to hear the new music we’ve been working hard on this year, and to be able to release it with our new label Sakamoto Music!” says River Town Saints.
‘’I always have a lot of fun when I have theRiver Town Saints on the show,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine, radio host, and host of the International Music's Journey Podcast. ‘’The River Town Saints have been releasing some incredible new music and the new single ‘’She Got That'' is the perfect summer jam anthem that showcases the band's irresistible sound, harmonies, and incredible songwriting. They are so talented in every way. This group is one band to have on your radar. You haven't seen anything yet!! They are just getting warmed up and you can guarantee that we are going to be on one hell of a ride with the RTS's.‘’
‘’I had the chance to catch up with lead singer, Chase Kasner of the RTS to talk about their highly anticipated new single and summer tour. We talk pretty candidly about the struggles the band has faced in the past few years and the exciting new chapter they are on today. It is always a blast talking with Chase. Chase gives us all some exciting news that is coming up with a special collaboration with a female UK artist. I also put him on the spot to sing a little of his favorite go-to song to sing to a special someone. It's the best! You will want to listen to this one. It's part of the Burning Questions portion of the show. Check it out at www.musicsjourney.com or click on the link below.
For Canadian-born, country, singer-songwriter Cole Bradley, life’s always been about summer. Today, he invites you to celebrate the sun in style with the release of his new EP Back On A Beach, and focus track “Way I Drink”, out today via Kala Records. Produced by Grammy winner Noah Gordon (Keith Urban, Billy Ray Cyrus, Darius Rucker), and Sandy Chila (Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera), the EP is reminiscent of country stars like Jake Owen, Sam Hunt, and Brett Kissel. "Way I Drink" is currently on Spotify's New Music Friday Country playlist.
Bradley’s greatest summer memories have been over one too many Jamesons in the backyard and cruising down the middle of the lake with speakers blaring. It’s where he’s had his first brush with true love and his toughest of heartbreaks. His summer anthems like, ‘Way I Drink”, “Back On A Beach”, and “Headed Home”, tell the stories of lived experiences and rowdy nights out with best friends that stick with you forever. These attributes along with Bradley’s signature vocal style are what make his new five-track EP, Back On A Beach, an anthem-filled banger. Written between Nashville, and L.A., it’s a piece of work that embodies how far Bradley’s songwriting has grown since his debut album, My Boots, in 2016. The EP is hooky, positive, and upbeat with an infectious energy not all artists can create. His passion for performing and edgy country sound puts him a step above his peers.
The EP’s second track and radio single, “Way I Drink”, is exactly the fun-filled knockout one thinks of when one hears the name, Cole Bradley. Its up-tempo rhythm, fun melodies, and crazy lyrics mean business when it comes to getting the party started. It highlights all the stupid things you find yourself getting into on a wild night out. It’s an ode to those who are the life of the party. Whether you’re hearing it at an unruly Cole Bradley concert or you hear it blasting on country radio, “Way I Drink” is about to be your new obsession.
Showing no signs of slowing down, this summer Bradley will be bringing the party on the road. He is set to take the stage in Canada and parts of the USA, including a stint at National Saloon in Calgary, Alberta in July. Tickets are available HERE. All tour dates are below.
TOUR DATES June 25 – Nashville, TN July 7 – Calgary - National Saloon July 15 – Sarasota, FL July 21 – Vernon – Kalamalka Lake July 22 – Pentiction - 97 South Song Sessions August 4 – Pine Lake, AB August 11 – Coldstream, BC – The Mackie House August 18 – Scottsdale, AZ August 25 – Seattle, WA
‘’Cole Bradley is a force and his new EP ‘’Back On The Beach'' and summer banger ‘’Way I Drink'' proves why,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine, radio host, and host of the International Music's Journey Podcast. ‘’I had the chance to catch up with Bradley to talk about his new project in an in-depth interview digging behind the lyrics and the music. Bradley shares a lot about his personal musical journey and he answers some fun questions for all his fans. I play the entire EP with the stories behind each song plus two bonus songs at the end of the interview. You are going to love it!''
To hear my interview with Bradley, go to www.musicsjourney.com or click on the link below.
In addition to the exciting live shows, Cole Bradley is a big fan of all things hockey! On June 25th he organized, co-hosted, and performed at “Hockey Tonk” - TheUnofficial NHL Awards and Draft Week Kick-Off event alongside Sirius XM The Highway producer Nick Coulson, presented by Two Rivers Ford. This premier sport and music event will take place in Nashville, TN, and will be headlined by Voice season 4 winner and Big Machine recording star Danielle Bradbery. JTHodges and Anthony Billups will also be performing.
MORE ON COLE BRADLEY: Growing up listening to the likes of Kenny Chesney and Garth Brooks, Bradley first graced the stage at the young age of five. Since then, he has fostered a passion for performing and sharing his music with others. Having worked with world-class writers and opening for iconic country acts like Thomas Rhett and High Valley among others, Bradley is just getting started. Since his move to Nashville in 2016, he has continued to work on his craft while playing at local venues including the historic Bluebird Cafe where he made his debut in September 2017. Bradley has also played other prominent venues since his move to Tennessee including the Bridgestone Arena, Whiskey Jam, and the Listening Room Café. In 2020, Bradley collaborated with his friends in the NHL to sing along to a previous single, “Party Don’t Start” and the video landed him on the NHL Network. In 2023, Bradley will be rocking the Calgary Stampede stages and other venues in Canada and has plans to tour various parts of the country, and the United States including TN, WA, NC, AZ, and FL.
Country star ANNIKA releases her new single "It Kills Me" a mesmerizing, seductive track that instantly captivates the listener with its sultry sound. Produced by ANNIKA’s husband, JUNO award-winningSpencer Cheyne, the track's instrumentation reflects an emotional rollercoaster, building from a subtle, subdued arrangement to a grand, sweeping finale that leaves a lasting impact on the listener.
"This song is a departure from previous releases as the track is dramatic and cinematic. It tells the story of a scorned woman who has been harshly treated by the love of her life, but keeps coming back for more,” said ANNIKA. “Although the story isn't representative of my life right now, I had fun creating the song imagining the thoughts of a woman who has been hurt so badly."
ANNIKA has been engaging and entertaining audiences around the world since 2014 as the lead singer of the CCMA-nominated country-pop duo Leaving Thomas, and now, as a highly anticipated solo artist.
As a classically trained pianist and vocalist, ANNIKA has performed around the world, from bustling cruise ship piano bars to national television as a Top 11 Canadian Idol finalist, and even hosting the Calgary Stampede Grandstand show with a combined audience of over 200,000 people.
Her debut solo single, "I Really Don't Want To," reached No.33 on the CBC Country Top 40 chart, was in the Top 40 at Mediabase for 5 consecutive weeks, and was in the Top 50 on the Billboard Country Chart for 4 weeks. ANNIKA continued to rise in success with the release of her sophomore single, "Encore” (duet with Brett Kissel), which was nominated for 3 YYC Music Awards, followed by her debut EP, Stand Still(2022), which accumulated over 500,000 streams within 2 weeks of its release.
‘’ANNIKA is a force in every way,'' says Kim Cyr, Editor in Chief for NOW and THEN Magazine, radio host, and host of the International Music's Journey Podcast. ‘’ANNIKA is one of the best country singers here in Canada. There is nothing she can't sing. She is also an incredible songwriter. If any songwriter has the opportunity to write with ANNIKA, they are very fortunate. ANNIKA is so talented and she is the complete package. She shines on stage as an entertainer and artist.''
‘’It is always a pleasure to catch up withANNIKA to chat about her new single ‘’It Kills Me'' and the shows coming up. You don't want to miss this one!''
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Music's Journey
Photo Credit Ford Fairchild
