In The News (February)

This section of the newsletter is comprised of news stories, press releases and links to Internet articles that are sent in by our members who believe they will be of general interest to the membership.  We include them as a courtesy to our members but do not verify or edit their content.  Their inclusion does not constitute an endorsement by the CMAO nor do their contents reflect the views or opinions of the CMAO.

Federal Funding Increased For Foreign Tour Support

The Foundation to Assist Canadian Talent on Recordings (FACTOR) has issued an advisory that the federal government has increased the annual allocation to Export activities, including international tours and showcases under the New Musical Works program, and Export showcases under the Collective Initiatives program for this and next fiscal year.

For those eligible artists and their representatives who are planning tours and showcases outside of Canada in the winter of 2017 or the early spring, additional funding may be available. To find out more, contact your FACTOR Project Coordinator immediately.

Eligible costs under this component covers the usual eligible tour costs such as travel, accommodation, personnel, backline, transport, etc.

Full Story: FYI Music News

Chad Brownlee Achieves Gold Record

Back in 2011, country artist Chad Brownlee was the recipient of the 2011 CCMA Rising Star Award.

Hard work and persistence has paid off with Brownlee now having achieved his first gold single with the hit, “I Hate You For It”, released on MDM Recordings. It comes after three albums, an EP and 17 singles and for MDM owner Mike Denney the clear sales success represents “one of the biggest in our eight-and-a-half year history.”

An award-winning singer, songwriter, philanthropist and ex-NHL draft pick, Brownlee has earned critical acclaim and such accolades as a 2013 JUNO nomination for Country Album of the Year, and, most recently, multiple 2016 Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) Awards nominations, including Album of the Year for Hearts On Fire, the fourth release in his discography.

Full Story: FYI Music News

Country Music Star McCoy Launches Radio Career

Country music performer and local resident Jason McCoy joins KICX 106 to host live on-air shifts.

He will also continue his successful music career.

“We are thrilled to have Jason join our staff,” says KICX 106 owner Paul Larche. “Jason has been a friend of ours for many years.  Having him on air as an entertainer could not make us happier. Jason has done various radio shows across the country – and is a natural. His understanding of the music and the artists, many of whom he knows personally, will give our listeners a unique insight into the music they love.”

“I couldn’t be happier to join the KICX family. They have been great friends and supporters through the years. This will allow me to continue working closer to home with my family. I can’t wait to start entertaining and interacting with KICX listeners all over Simcoe County. It’s gonna been great,” says McCoy.

Full Story: Barrie Today

Constance Tapp

At the age of 94, Constance Tapp, the widow of recently deceased Ontario country icon Gordie Tapp, sadly passed away on January 29th. Constance and Gordie were the Great-Grandparents of 15. She will be dearly missed. Constance left this world a mere 6 weeks after Gordie did – now, isn’t that worthy of a country song? The CMAO offers its heartfelt condolences to the family.