May 12, 2017

In The Country with Dave Woods: One On One With Kelly Prescott

Ontario’s Kelly Prescott has just released her song “Hillbilly Jewels” to country radio. The song – written by her brother Kalen – tells the story of her musical roots that run through generations of Browns and Prescotts. When you see Kelly performing live, you’re in store for an entertaining time. She delivers great songs and comedic lines with equal flair. Her vocals have been described as “smoky and sultry”. 2017 is shaping up to be a breakout year for this multi-talented artist. Congratulations on your nomination for Roots Artist/Group of the Year at the upcoming CMAOntario Awards. How does it feel to be recognized this way? Thank you so much. It’s an honour to be nominated for Roots Artist of the Year, especially alongside everyone […]
May 12, 2017

Patrice’s Pick: Brad Battle

This month, our feature video from Patrice Whiffen at Country Music Junkies profiles Canadian country music artist, Brad Battle. A St. Catharines, Ontario native, Brad talks about his new single and title track to his new EP, “Always Easy.” Brad previews the stories that fans can expect from the EP, along with where you can catch a live Brad Battle show this summer!   For more information about Brad Battle, or to check out his new EP, visit his website here: www.BradBattle.com. For more on Country Music Junkies, visit www.CountryMusicJunkies.com. Check out the exclusive interview with Brad Battle below:   About Patrice: To Patrice Whiffen, country music is a lifestyle. As the appropriately deemed, “Country Music Junkie,” she strives to share her passion for country music with the world. […]
May 12, 2017

In The News (May)

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. Country music performer now speaks openly about her struggles with mental illness London’s Jessica Mitchell will be home in June with more country music award nominations. The 33-year-old singer songwriter received four nominations for the Country Music Association of Ontario awards being held at Centennial Hall June 11, for her single […]
April 13, 2017

A Message from the President (April 2017)

Since its inception in 2008, it is with utmost pride that I’ve watched the Country Music Association of Ontario grow into a meaningful organization that matters to our artists and all its members. The efforts put forth by the past and present Board of Directors has been amazing. So many initiatives have been brought forward and undertaken, but one that seems to be overlooked and should be mentioned is the Regional Associations’ meetings that are held three or four times a year. It all began in 2009, when past President Barry Haugen and I called a meeting of associations in Vancouver during Canadian Country Music Week. It was an informal affair, attended by three provincial association representatives. Our intention was to bring us together for […]
April 13, 2017

Artist of the Month: Lindsay Broughton

Brooklin’s Lindsay Broughton has been on Ontario country music fans’ radar since her 2013 CMAO Awards win as Rising Star of the Year… and if she hasn’t been on yours, it’s time to change that now. In the time since that win, the small town girl has been writing, recording, and releasing new country music for fans, and playing it on stages all over the province and beyond. Her energy at those live shows, regardless of the time or place, has consistently showed off her personality and authenticity, helping her connect to her fans. And it’s what brings those fans back to see her again and again, creating that base that every artist needs. In 2014, Lindsay released her debut album, Take Me There, which […]
April 13, 2017

CMAOntario R2I Spring Tune Up Conference

The fourth edition of the CMAOntario R2I Spring Tune Up Conference will feature a two-day program of learning, networking and showcasing on Saturday, June 10 and Sunday, June 11, 2017, at the Delta London Armouries by Marriott in London, Ontario. Programming will cover artist development, navigating Nashville, songwriting, digital marketing, promotion, funding and more. Attendees will hear first-hand the stories that inspired some of today’s top hits during the perennial favourite Songwriters In The Round session. Registrants will have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with industry personnel during the Mentor’s Breakfast on Saturday and the networking lunch on Sunday. Confirmed speakers include: Bruce Good (The Good Brothers); Brian Allen (Amplus Productions); Cathie Faint (Catherine Faint Entertainment); Kathryn Hummel (Royalty Records); Stefanie Purificati (United Talent Agency [UTA]); Ashley Sperling (MusiCounts); Samantha Pickard (Strut Entertainment); Allan Mamaril (M88 Management); Mike Denney (MDM […]
April 13, 2017

In The Country with Dave Woods: One On One With Thomas Wade

Burford, Ontario’s Thomas Wade found his love for music at a young age and performed with his family’s band, The Silver Wings. The records he grew up loving became his teachers, from Johnny Cash to Elvis to The Beatles. Years later, he was accepted into the Music Industry Arts program at Fanshawe College. He found himself surrounded by people who shared the same passion for music that he had. After college, he joined a band called Wayward and they opened up shows for Canadian country legend Marie Bottrell. Thomas Wade and Wayward went on to win 7 CCMAS and earn 3 Juno nominations. Eventually, Thomas embarked on a solo career and found success at Canadian country radio and CMT with songs like “Running Away With […]
April 13, 2017

Ontario’s Country Music Pioneers: Mike Graham (aka Michael Dee)

(Born: October 3, 1944 – Toronto, Ontario) (Died : August 18, 1993 – London, Ontario) (by Larry Delaney) Toronto-born Mike Graham was one of the more versatile and popular artists on the Canadian country music scene during the 1970’s through the early 1990’s. He was a recording artist, songwriter, TV series host, record label owner, radio station DJ… and a “showman” with a fabulous stage show that included a lively mix of his own songs, his versions of popular country hits, and a comedic side that featured dynamic impersonations of country’s top stars. Mike Graham also showed great versatility. He began his career out of Toronto as a pure country singer. Later, while working as a popular DJ on Montreal radio station CHOM, he pursued […]
April 13, 2017

Patrice’s Pick: Eric Ethridge

This month, our feature video from Patrice Whiffen at Country Music Junkies profiles Canadian country music artist, Eric Ethridge. A Sarnia, ON native, Eric talks about his debut single, “Liquor’s Callin’ The Shots” – a fun and upbeat tune that is in response to a breakup. The 2016 CCMA Discovery Program winner talks about the program’s process, and how honoured he was to win this past September. Eric also talks about sharing the stage with country greats Eric Church, Thomas Rhett and Brett Kissel, in addition to a cool story from TJ Osbourne of Brothers Osbourne. For more information about Eric Ethridge, or to check out his new tune, visit his website here: http://www.ericethridge.com/. For more on Country Music Junkies, visit: www.CountryMusicJunkies.com. Check out the exclusive interview […]
April 13, 2017

Save on Country-Inspired Accessories with New Country Spirit

Offer: 20% off for CMAO members New Country Spirit.com http://www.newcountryspirit.com/ New Country Spirit is honoured to collaborate with Canadian artisans to bring you exclusive accessories inspired by people, places, country music and nature’s elements. Our artists blend new processes with ‘days of old’ techniques — like hand forging iron, lampworking and hand tooling leather. The result, a down-to-earth, country-inspired collection of fashion accessories. Our line-up includes belts, buckles, boot accessories, necklaces, bracelets, leather goods and more. We can also custom design belt buckles for your band, company or special promotions. Email us at info@newcountryspirit.com We’re social – follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter To access the discount code, sign in to the Members Area of the CMAOntario website using your credentials and look for New Country Spirit. Then, […]
April 13, 2017

In The News (April)

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.   Lineup Announced For 2017 Music In The Fields In Lucknow The Lucknow and District Kinsmen have announced the line-up for the ninth annual Music in the Fields festival, August 24 to 26 in Lucknow. Headlining the Saturday stage will be international recording star Jake Owen. An ACM winner with six […]
April 12, 2017

The Country Music Association of Ontario Announces the 2017 CMAOntario Award Nominees

The Country Music Association of Ontario (CMAOntario) is pleased to announce the nominees for the fifth annual CMAOntario Awards. Presented by Slaight Music, with support from the Ontario Media Development Corporation, the awards recognize the talent and achievements of Ontario’s country music industry across 16 categories.  Meghan Patrick leads the pack with seven nominations while James Barker Band, River Town Saints, Jessica Mitchell, Cold Creek County, Jason Blaine, Tim Hicks and The Abrams are among the multiple nominees being honoured at the ceremony on Sunday, June 11th at Centennial Hall in London, Ontario. See the full nominees listing for the 2017 CMAOntario Awards below.    Voting for the awards is restricted to CMAOntario members, with the exception of the Fans’ Choice award, which is open to both public and membership voting. […]
March 10, 2017

Artist of the Month: Krista Earle

Singer, songwriter & performer Krista Earle checks off all three boxes as she continues to push forward in her country music career. With multiple Country Music Association of Ontario award nominations (Female Artist of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, Single of the Year and Rising Star) Krista has become an Ontario mainstay, playing shows for crowds all over the province and continuing to write new music that explores her own personality and what she loves most about country music. In fact, a quick look at Krista’s social media channels will show you that there’s new music coming in 2017. And 2017 might just be the perfect time for Krista’s philosophy and music. Quoted in the past as saying, “Music and songwriting has the power […]
March 7, 2017

A Message from the President (March 2017)

MARKETING 101 When I first got involved in the music business, for me, marketing was an unknown entity. For many of us it was all about the music. We had managers and labels that took care of that boring and unfamiliar part of promoting us and selling our product. But as management and major labels fell by the wayside, the need to familiarize oneself with marketing became a necessity. Now that indie labels are just as prevalent as major labels, artists should learn all they can about marketing as they continue to move their careers forward. The business dictionary defines marketing as follows: The management process through which goods and services move from concept to the customer. It includes the coordination of four elements called […]
March 7, 2017

Don’t Miss the CMAOntario RoadShow in Ottawa this Month

CMAONTARIO ROADSHOW: LEARNING EXCHANGE & SHOWCASE IN OTTAWA Saturday, March 18, 2017 The Observatory at Algonquin College 1385 Woodroffe Ave., Ottawa, ON The Country Music Association of Ontario (CMAOntario) is pleased to announce the CMAOntario RoadShow: Learning Exchange and Showcase to be held at The Observatory at Algonquin College, on Saturday, March 18, 2017. The event will consist of a daylong program of educational seminars for aspiring industry professionals, artists and songwriters, featuring a truckload of experts, like: Legendary Canadian chart-topping artist and songwriter, Charlie Major Doug Oliver from the award-winning group, Cold Creek County UTA’s ace agent Stefanie Purificati, whose roster includes Alan Doyle, Paul Brandt, Bruce Cockburn and Sam Roberts Award-winning songwriter Tyler Wilkinson (Small Town Pistols, The Wilkinsons) Celebrated singer/songwriter Jeremy Fisher Award-winning songwriter and producer Brian Allen […]
March 7, 2017

Artist of the Month: Krista Earle

 // presented by thereviewsarein.com // Singer, songwriter & performer Krista Earle checks off all three boxes as she continues to push forward in her country music career. With multiple Country Music Association of Ontario award nominations (Female Artist of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, Single of the Year and Rising Star) Krista has become an Ontario mainstay, playing shows for crowds all over the province and continuing to write new music that explores her own personality and what she loves most about country music. In fact, a quick look at Krista’s social media channels will show you that there’s new music coming in 2017. And 2017 might just be the perfect time for Krista’s philosophy and music. Quoted in the past as saying, “Music and […]
March 7, 2017

Ontario’s Country Music Pioneers: The Mercey Brothers

Larry Mercey – (born Dec. 12, 1939 – Hanover, Ontario) Ray Mercey – (born Nov. 21, 1940 – Hanover, Ontario) Lloyd Mercey – (born Dec. 12, 1945 – Hanover, Ontario) (by Larry Delaney) One of Canada’s most decorated country groups, THE MERCEY BROTHERS were perennial award winners for Group Of The Year, including the Canadian Country Music Association’s 1985 Group Of The Year award and six-time (1970-74 and 1976) Juno Award winners as Best Country Group. Led vocally by Larry Mercey, who also wrote several of their top hits, the group released albums on Columbia, RCA and their own MBS Records label. Larry Mercey (on guitar) and brother Ray (on bass guitar) began their music careers in the mid-1950’s as members of The Town And […]
March 7, 2017

In The Country with Dave Woods: Celebrating 8 Years

Celebrating 8 years of In The Country!   “Congratulations Dave on your 8th year Anniversary of In The Country. Your love of country music and your interest in the artist always makes your interviews fun and engaging. I appreciate the time you take to put such a great show together. Here’s to many more years. You’re one of the best.” – Michelle Wright, award-winning Country artist “Here’s to In The Country with Dave Woods, celebrating 8 years! So many great stories yet to tell and I am so proud to have been a part of the musical journey. Keep on keepin’ it country, Dave!” – Patricia Conroy, hit songwriter “Congrats on 8 years of In The Country, Dave! Thank you so much for supporting not […]
March 7, 2017

Patrice’s Pick: Alessia Cohle

This month, our feature video from Patrice Whiffen at Country Music Junkies profiles Canadian country music artist, Alessia Cohle! Alessia talks about her start in music, and the important role her family played in her journey. She also talks about what fans can expect from her new album, Talk to Me. Alessia shares her excitement about opening for Brett Kissel, and what it was like to be part of the 2016 CCMA house band. To find out more about Alessia Cohle, visit: www.alessiacohle.com. For more on Country Music Junkies, visit: www.CountryMusicJunkies.com. Check out the exclusive interview with Alessia Cohle below: About Patrice: To Patrice Whiffen, country music is a lifestyle. As the appropriately deemed, “Country Music Junkie,” she strives to share her passion for country music with the […]
March 7, 2017

In The News (March)

  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.   Country Wild Music Festival Announced   The first Country Wild Music Festival, to be held Saturday, June 3 in Cobourg’s Victoria Park, was announced February 14th. Hosted by Cobourg local residents Matt Williams and Andrew Hall of Cobourg Music Festivals Inc., the event aims to celebrate Canadian country music […]

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