In the Country with Dave Woods:
Andy Colonico

This month, the spotlight is on Andy Colonico.

While staying true to his rock roots, Andy has carved out his own unique lane in country music. Since releasing “Wildcard Girl” in 2023 and then his signature tune “Hell Yeah” in 2024, there has been no stopping this Welland, Ontario artist. His list of shows seems endless, and he’s opened shows for Tyler Joe Miller, Brett Kissel, Robyn Ottolini, Owen Riegling & more top artists. Country fans everywhere are falling in love with the music of the Yee-Haw Rock & Roller.

Welcome to the Spotlight, Andy! Tell us a bit about your latest release, “More Reasons To Love You”.
Hell yeah! “More Reasons To Love You” is a song that really represents where I’m at in life right now. I was hit with a wave of gratitude after the busiest touring season I’ve ever had in 2025, and my amazing partner in crime was so patient and supportive as I’ve been riding the wave of opportunities. The main inspiration struck when we were out on a drive talking about life and our future together, and she said, “I pray for you every night that all your dreams come true”. That hit me like a brick, and I never stopped thinking about it. Finally, when the tour season wrapped up, the song came so naturally to me when I was reflecting on everything I’ve accomplished. It’s a tough balancing act being a rising country artist while trying to get all the adulting stuff in life in order.

Who are the country artists who have inspired you?
Being a rock artist first, it was the heavy hitters of the country scene that caught my attention for their artistic influence. Zac Brown Band, Jason Aldean, Brett Eldredge, Luke Combs and HARDY really got the gears moving for me. As I’ve dove into the country scene, however, I’m really loving Toby Keith’s catalogue, Alan Jackson, Tyler Childers, and Kameron Marlowe. Too many to list. I’ve also been a huge folk fan – and I feel this outlet fits very well in country, as it allows me for storytelling in a fresh way I’ve never attempted before.

What made you want to write songs in the first place?
Honestly, my parents have always been involved in music. They never wrote many original pieces, but seeing them in their element, performing in front of crowds, was super inspiring. I used to hear all the feedback from people who watched, especially when I would sell my mom’s merch for her at her shows. As well, just following artists as a kid and hearing stories on how they wrote a certain song – I just thought how cool it was that you can write about an experience in your life and make something beautiful out of it. Whether it’s a sad or a happy tale. Mainly, I just loved to see how music brings people together.

Tell us how your song “Hell Yeah” – wildly popular at your shows & beyond – has been a game changer for you.
That song never wants to stop. I never expected the momentum that was to come with it. It makes me so happy seeing people get fired up at my shows when we finally get to that song on the setlist. It’s funny because online, that song is always the one that reels in a new fan pretty instantly – but it never ends up being their favourite. Give it a few weeks, and a newer fan will tell me “came for HELL YEAH, stayed for Wildcard Girl” or whichever song it may be. It’s opened so many doors for performing opportunities, and my following has grown substantially just from a little bush party anthem I made for fun. I’ve had that riff sitting on my computer for 10 years before it was released – it’s crazy how the universe works. I really believe that song will never stop growing and reaching new fans. When it first blew up on TikTok, I had to pull up my pants real quick and get on the road to all the cities people were telling me to show up in. It solidified what kind of vibe I have to bring to the country table. I’m so proud that one of my most authentic-sounding songs is what caught the attention of many. When I first began releasing music, I was nervous about my rock influences bleeding in too much. I was reassured really quickly that there is an audience for what I like to do.

What advice do you have for new artists on the scene to help them get noticed in the music business?
Always look for live show opportunities. Writers’ rounds and open mics are a great way to network and really learn how to tell stories and test out material. Social media is such a great free tool we are very blessed to have. Always have a game plan with your releases, and make sure you are always yourself. People love authenticity – and it’s better not to overthink or compare yourself to others. I always take a few notes from other artists on what I admire about them, but I make sure to apply my own groove when evolving my next steps. Advice from my mother: enjoy the journey! Breathe in the flowers. Good things take time.

What is your dream stage to play on, and why?
Recently, I had an opportunity to perform on a smaller stage at Stagecoach in California. I would love to make my way onto the main stage there. It’s also my dream to headline the Danforth Music Hall in Toronto.

If you could record a duet with any artist from any genre, who would you choose & why?
That’s a tough question. I feel Zac Brown Band, and I would make a killer song together. I’d love to work with the Foo Fighters as well. They’ve been a huge inspiration for me.

What can we look forward to from you in the rest of 2026?
New music (thanks to the Ontario Arts Council) and a lot of big shows! I plan to really hone in on my brand. I’ve always kind of flown by the seat of my pants, but now it’s time to buckle down with my vibe.