Jessica Sevier
February 6, 2023Kasey Nugent
February 8, 2023In The News (February 2023)
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 CMAOntario nor do their contents reflect the views or opinions of the CMAOntario. If you would like to have something included in the newsletter, please send us a short synopsis, a photo or graphic and the hotlink that can be included in the news listing. Submissions can be sent to verle@cmaontario.ca. Please make sure the Subject Line reads “For inclusion in the CMAOntario Newsletter”. The deadline for submissions is the 20th of each month.
Amanda Kind Releases Fun Rom-Com Inspired Music Video For New Single “Slow Dance”
Co-written with David Madras and producer Matt Koebel, Amanda Kind’s latest single “Slow Dance” is all about taking your time falling in love and really getting to know someone. In a world starved for connection, this soaring pop-country anthem is for anyone who craves that old-school record store romance.
Amanda’s distinctly soulful sound drives “Slow Dance” recalling the emotional energy of classic songs like Patsy Cline’s “Crazy” or Etta James’ “At Last,” but with a modern edge. It’s a song about human connection meant to be blasted in the car speakers or at home while dancing in the kitchen.
The song is accompanied by a brand new music video by Roadhouse Productions featuring a playful homage to iconic rom coms. Watch the video now: https://youtu.be/jrtBOnW9iX4
To stay up to date on Amanda’s latest news and releases, follow along and subscribe through her website at www.amandakind.com.
INSTAGRAM // https://www.instagram.com/missakind
YOUTUBE // https://www.youtube.com/c/AmandaKindMusic
FACEBOOK // https://www.facebook.com/amandakindmusic
(Source: Member Submission)
“Oughta Be Outlawed” is the Newest Single from Jesse Slack
2022 was quite a year for Ontario’s Jesse Slack.
GOLD SINGLE award for his co-write on Robyn Ottolini’s “Tell You Everything”…
CMAOntario Songwriter of the Year nomination for “Tell You Everything”…
#1 CMT Australia co-write for Josh Setterfield’s “Right About Now”…
Not to mention songs placed with Jade Eagleson, Robyn Ottolini, Dylan Burk, Joey Greer and The Prairie States!
To kick off the new year Jesse’s new single “Oughta Be Outlawed ”, brings an edge that gets your heart rate up quicker than caffeine!
Quickly evolving into one of Canada’s strong new writers, Jesse Slack’s Oughta Be Outlawed deserves 2:42 of your time.
Listen here.
(Source: Member Submission)
Tyler Lorette Embraces Heartbreak with His New Single “SHATTERED”
Ontario based Tyler Lorette is a truly one-of-a-kind artist who has managed to create a distinctive blend of sound. At the young age of 19, he is already an accomplished singer, songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and producer who is taking the Toronto music scene by storm.
“Shattered” can be described as the perfect combination of acoustic pop and country, allowing him to reach a very broad fanbase that transcends genre definitions. There is something truly special about the diverse range this artist has channeled on his recent release. The introduction serves as a perfect way to welcome the audience and set the mood of the song. When the main melody kicks in, the energy of the song immediately pulls you into this young man’s heartache, bringing emotion and appeal to his hooks and melodies. The overall vibe of the performance is edgy and genuine from the get-go.
When not busy making music and performing, Tyler is pursuing a degree in music production at Berklee. In addition, he is an active TikToker, who is quickly building a large following on the platform with his content of covers and original music!
Find out more about Tyler Lorette and listen to “Shattered” on all streaming platforms and check out the amazing store of exclusive limited-edition merch.
Listen: https://li.sten.to/tylerlorette
(Source: Member Submission)
One Ugly Cowboy Releases New Single and Video “I’m Owning My Crazy”
One Ugly Cowboy released their newest video and single I’M OWNING MY CRAZY in January. Written by the band’s Richard Zwic & Jane Sowerby, the song was inspired “by fun & love of this beautiful world we live in!”
Their song I LOVE WHATCHA DO , released in 2022, has been placed to air on episode 4 of a new original prime time series called “Ride”. The series will premiere on the Hallmark Channel this year.
And on the live concert front, the band is already set to play the Hagersville Rocks Music Festival Friday July 14, 2023 with a line-up that includes Jess Moskaluke, Shawn Austin, and more.
(Source: Member Submission)
Ontario Country Trio New Moon Junction to Release New Single “Mind Of Its Own” on March 3rd
Ontario country trio New Moon Junction are set to release their incredible new single “Mind Of Its Own” on March 3rd via RÊVE MUSIC / The Orchard and all streaming platforms.
“Mind Of Its Own” showcases the trio’s beautiful three-part harmonies in a song about a continued longing for something or someone you know isn’t good for you.
New Moon Junction is composed of members Barbara Doran, Brad Battle and Tamara Maddalen. From the beginning, the three artists instantly hit it off, sharing an unwavering desire to create music and moments together.
The trio brings spontaneous energy to their live performances and finds a way of connecting with their fans, leaving them wanting more.
New Moon Junction has had an amazing creative team of collaborators helping to bring their songs to life, including multi-Platinum award-winning producer Jeff Dalziel. The trio’s harmonic, distinct and unforgettable voices can also be heard in their first three single releases, “Real Good Kinda Thing,” “The Other Side of Goodbye” and “Don’t”.
Having just signed a partnership with RÊVE MUSIC at the tail end of 2022, New Moon Junction is ready to have a break-thru year as they prepare to release more new music this year for fans to enjoy.
(Source: Member Submission)
Jade Naraine Readies New Single for March Release: “Loved By You”
Jade Naraine is releasing her newest single “Loved By You” to Canadian country radio this March. The track is penned by Madeline Merlo, Emma Lee, and Bobby Campbell, and produced by Jeff Dalziel.
The video for her latest release, “23”, is out now.
Watch here.
http://www.jadenaraine.com
http://www.instagram.com/jadenaraine
http://www.twitter.com/jadenaraine
(Source: Member Submission)
Cobourg Singer/Songwriter’s Dream Takes Flight with Recording of
His Material
Restless through much of the pandemic, Cobourg singer/songwriter Malcolm Foenander found the two years to be one of the most productive periods in his musical life.
“COVID kept me at home, so I used that time to write music, practise and record my stuff. That has always been my dream to have my own music, and I was able to do it and record it,” said Foenander, a Cobourg resident for the past 10 years.
Foenander recorded four EPs of music since 2021, starting with ‘Magic Visions’ as his debut effort. He recorded his fourth and latest EP called ‘Phenomenal Visions’ which was released last month. Best of all, all 26 songs recorded during this time frame have been distributed around the world by Distrokid and can also be found on all major streaming services, including Apple Music.
(Full Story: Northumberland News)
Steve Goldberger’s The Gentle Spirits Host Residency at Camp Cataract
Steve Goldberger’s The Gentle Spirits has a new residency the first Friday night of each month at Camp Cataract in the Falls. Each week features one of Steve’s personal favourite guest artists to open the show. Last week featured a special guest set by Mike Lynch.
Additional shows coming up include:
Saturday, February 11 – Peter Piper’s Pubhouse, Fonthill
Saturday, May 6 – Peter Piper’s Pubhouse, Fonthill
Sunday, July 9 – Oasis Bar at Sherkston Shores Resort (as The Niagara Reefers, a Jimmy Buffett tribute)
Website: www.stevegoldberger.com<
Music stores: https://stevegoldberger.bandcamp.com
Video channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/SteveGoldberger/videos
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/steve.goldberger.14/<
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevegoldberger/
(Source: Member Submission)
Genevieve Fisher Pens Ode to Music: “Thank You Music”
This song tells my story, on various levels. While it focuses on my career through the highs and lows, it can be relatable to all who use music to persevere through tough times. I was just two years old when I was entered into my first singing competition at the Ilderton Fair, just outside my home town of London Ontario. I had long curly hair, wore a white dress and sang “You Are My Sunshine.” I took home first place that night; the rest is history. The story that continues after that day remains the proverbial rollercoaster. There have been some incredible experiences along the way, but often when the curtain gets pulled back in the music industry, it is easy to lose sight of the magic that the music can create, lose sight of what pulled you into the “music” universe in the first place. It can be extremely difficult to navigate a balance between your passion for the music and the negativity that you can encounter along the way. Music in it’s purest sense is meant to be uplifting and healing, but the process of delivering it can work in reverse and tear you down at times. I’ve always strived to be my authentic self, and when I think back to why I began this journey, it was and always will continue to be the music. I am not ashamed to admit now that this song could very well have been my career “farewell” song. However in the process of bringing this song to life I came to realize that this is a new beginning. This song gave me new life by bringing me back to the reason I love doing this…the music.
I want to thank my co-writer Jennifer Schott; an absolute power house, mentor and friend who has been with me during my whole professional career; I couldn’t have written this with anyone else. And lastly, thank you music, you’ve always had a way of pulling me back in. While this song is my story, it can be relevant to anyone who turns on their favourite song. For that moment it is all about the music. Music is healing. Music is emotion. Music can be anything we want it to be for us at that moment that we need comfort. I think we can all thank music for bringing us some of our greatest joys and helping us get through our toughest times.
Love,
Genevieve
(Source: Member Submission)
The Beresfords to Perform in Toronto
The Beresfords are bringing the country to the city, Friday, February 10th, at Adelaide Hall. They will be joined by CMAOntario nominee Mackenzie Leigh Meyer and Courtney Bowles.
Shannon & Brendan Beresford have a way of capturing audiences wherever they play. Whether it’s their undeniable sibling-duo chemistry, the fusion of Shannon’s powerhouse vocals with Brendan’s rich harmonies and masterful guitar solos, or their Country-Rock sound, they are solidifying their place in the Canadian Country music scene. They are unapologetically themselves, writing from the heart and composing music that draws fans in from all ages.
With new music set to release in early 2023, The Beresfords are ready to return to the stage and take the Country Music world by force.
Tickets here.
(Source: Member Submission)
“Sad Country Song” Marks Newest Release from Rebecca Rain
“Sad Country Song” is the second single release from Rebecca Rain’s upcoming release. The song takes listeners on a journey from embracing the inherent fragility of our emotions, allowing us to seek solace in the music, and then come out the other side that much stronger.
Rebecca reminds listeners that it’s okay to be vulnerable and upset sometimes, but to remember that you’re going to get through it, and overcome life’s challenges. Rebecca’s relatable lyrics ignite a sense of community and comradery that connects listeners to the authenticity of a sad country song, while in turn, allowing the music to be an outlet for healing. The song stemmed from a conversation between Rebecca and her brother Jamie Stephens, about how sad country songs are often a place they seek solace when going through hard times. The two got to writing, and shared the song with producer and friend, Doug Romanow, to add the finishing touches. The three writers believe in the power of music, and how it can not only be a solace, but also a source of inspiration. “The singer might stop but your heart will stay strong, Cause you ain’t a sad country song.”
With the release of this song, Rebecca vows to donate a percentage of proceeds to the Canadian Mental Health Association, while also advocating to end the stigma surrounding mental health.
A 2019 Boots and Hearts Music Festival Emerging Artist Showcase Finalist, Rebecca is no stranger to the stage, having grown up performing in bars and restaurants in the GTA. Over the past few years, she’s ignited an industry buzz with her relatable songwriting and soulful country powerhouse vocals, both of which have landed her opening slots for award-winning artists Meghan Patrick, Tim Hicks, James Barker Band, and Canadian Country Music icon, Charlie Major.
The first single, “I Don’t Take Shit” off Rebecca’s debut album was released on August 26th, 2022 and has since been added on Topsify’s “Complete Country” playlist, as well as landed her opening slots for Beverly Mahood at St.Thomas’ Summer Harvest Festival 2022 and for Jess Moskaluke on the Barrie, ON stop of the award- winning country star’s “Mapdot Tour”. In its first couple of weeks of being available on DSP’s, “Sad Country Song” has been added to Topsify’s “Complete Country” playlist, and the “New Music” and “Canada’s Country” playlists on Apple Music.
Listen here.
Watch the video here.
(Source: Member Submission)
Elyse Saunders Takes the Stage at Old Flame Brewery Music Hall
Elyse Saunders will be performing at Main Street Music Hall at Old Flame Brewery on March 25th in Newmarket.
A multi-nominated and award winning Canadian Country artist, Elyse is currently making waves throughout Canada, and creating a buzz internationally. She is described as an artist with strong vision and steadfast drive and knows how to wow audiences with her powerhouse vocals, dynamic stage presence, and interactive charm. Elyse has been steadily building an impressive songwriting catalogue while perfecting her performance chops between Nashville & homebase for several years and has people turning heads with her recent charging momentum, earning her the title of 4 time CMAOntario nominee, and 3 time Mississauga Music award winner. With live shows back in action, Elyse is totally in her element with a passion for giving fans memorable shows. She’s played over 400 shows at country music festivals, Canadian Music Week, CMAOntario awards, CCMA week & more and looks forward to playing to many more crowds in 2023. Expect fresh new music and many more exciting times for Elyse in 2023.
Tickets here.
(Source: Member Submission)
Become A Juror for The CCMA
The CCMA is now accepting applications for those who wish to volunteer their time and expertise by acting as a juror for select 2023 CCMA Awards and Country Music Week programming.
Jurors are selected annually. Those chosen sit on carefully constructed panels of knowledgeable industry professionals and evaluate submissions in given CCMA Award categories and programming. The jurying process takes place in the spring/summer and requires a reasonable time commitment (2-4 hours varying based on award category or program). Jurying will take place online.
The CCMA and its members take pride in upholding the integrity of the association and honouring the best in the business. Apply today to become a CCMA juror if you feel you would be an asset to the betterment of the genre and association and be part of the process of making Country Music Week 2023 diverse, equitable, and inclusive.
Diversity, equity, and inclusion are critical components of business at the Canadian Country Music Association, and we are committed to making these values an integral part of our culture. All are encouraged to apply and will be considered with equal opportunity regardless of race, gender, sexuality, colour, disability or religion.
To be considered for a juror role, please submit your application no later than Tuesday, February 21, 2023 at 5:00 p.m. ET.
Link To Form: https://members.ccma.org/cgi/page.cgi/_qa.html?form=168
(Source: Member Submission)
Amanda Keeles Releases Debut Single
Canadian country singer-songwriter Amanda Keeles has released her debut single “Blame It On the Moonlight.” Recorded at MCC Studio in Calgary, (CCMA’s Studio of the Year for 2021 and 2022), the London, Ontario artist teamed up with multi-talented producer Johnny Gasparic to create the upbeat country vibe of the track. Amanda is joined by bass player Chris Byrne from The Road Hammers, Keith Floen and Therry Lawson of The Travelling Mabels, Juno and CCMA nominated Joe MacIntyre on drums, Branson’s Bruce Hoffman on steel and Calgary’s country artist Bill Blayney on lead guitar. The result is a rhythmic, toe tapping story of a woman’s indecision in directing the blame for her broken heart.
Listen here.
(Source: Member Submission)