Tom Wilson Takes His Story To The Stage With Beautiful Scars Musical At Hamilton’s Theatre Aquarius

Fri Mar 15 2024
Tom Wilson

April 24 to May 11, 2024: Theatre Aquarius in Hamilton, Ontario

Tickets to Beautiful Scars the musical are $25 and up at www.theatreaquarius.org, or call the box office at (905) 522-7529

Tom Wilson’s identity crisis began in earnest at the age of 4, when his mother looked him square in the eye and told him “There are secrets I know about you that I’ll take to my grave.” What she meant, and how he finally figured it out, is a topic the Canadian writer-musician explored to stunning effect in his best-selling 2017 novel, Beautiful Scars: Steeltown Secrets, Mohawk Skywalkers and the Road Home, and a 2022 documentary film of the same name. Now his gripping story is coming to the stage as a world-premiere musical created by Wilson and Shaun Smyth, under the direction of Mary Francis Moore.

CMW Hires Brian Hetherman As International Programmer

Fri Mar 15 2024
Brian Hetherman

We're excited to announce the hiring of established label owner and manager Brian Hetherman of Toronto’s Cerberus Management & Consulting to handle international programming for this year’s Canadian Music Week conference, June 3-5.

Brian — who will continue to operate his labels, Curve Music and Sonic Envy — will work alongside CMW president Neill Dixon, and the rest of the CMW team, to bring the top names and topics to the leading music industry conference, held in Toronto at the Westin Harbour Castle.

CMW is always adapting with the times,” says Brian. “I was the international ambassador at Canadian Music Week for many years, working with them on their international marketplace and attending conferences around the world on behalf of Canadian Music Week, as well as my own entities. It a natural progression to help put together panels, both domestic and international.”

Bif Naked And Georgie Jett Join Forces To Create A Dynamic, Women-Led Music And Events Management Powerhouse

Fri Mar 15 2024
Bif Naked And Georgie Jett

The fusion of UK-based GeorgieJettEvents.com and Canadian powerhouse HerRoyalMajestys.com marks the union of two exceptional and talented women, pooling their resources to offer comprehensive music and event management, marketing, consultancy, and distribution services for artists across Canada, the UK, EU, and North America.

Celebrating milestones - Bif Naked's 25th Anniversary with her multi-platinum I, Bificus XXXV Album on her private label HerRoyalMajestys.com in Canada, and Georgie Jett's 25 years of live events in the UK and EU—underscore the depth of experience and dedication these two bring to the table.

Their bond, forged through shared values of animal protection and a passion for music and live events, embodied a profound connection. Bif Naked, reflecting on their very first meeting facilitated by her Manager, Peter Karroll, describes Georgie as a kindred spirit, sharing not only their love for music, "Georgie is committed to music and knows more about music history than any person I have ever met, and we share a deep- seated commitment to animal welfare."

Award-Winning Folk Group MAGGIE’S WAKE Set To Release Self-Titled Debut Album March 17, 2024

Thu Mar 14, 2024

Award-Winning London, Ontario folk group Maggie’s Wake is set to release their long-awaited debut album on March 17, 2024.

Spotify pre-save link here: https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/maggieswake/maggies-wake?utm_campaign…

It took just over a year for Maggie’s Wake to write, record and release their first full studio album, which will finally be available on St. Patrick’s Day, following the success of their holiday single "Christmas is Coming (for You)" and the haunting fan favourite "Bridget O’Brien". The album showcases their vast talents both as storytellers and musicians and has been a labour of love for the women who front Maggie’s Wake, singer and multi-instrumentalist Tara Dunphy and Lindsay Schindler, fiddler and harmony vocalist.

Tilly Kingston Releases New Single “Youth is Wasted”

Thu Feb 29 2024
Tilly Kingston

Tilly Kingston today releases her single Youth Is Wasted. Youth Is Wasted follows 2023 debut single Best Break Up Ever, which received support from BBC Introducing, has so far racked up 1.4million YouTube views, and hundreds of spot plays across UK radio stations.

With her hard edged, punk-rock & metal fused pop, Tilly wants to connect with anyone who’s ever felt like a misfit. She explains ‘Youth Is Wasted is a tongue in cheek ‘Piss Off’ to all the people who look down on me and say I am wasting my life and having too much fun. Well if this is wasting my life than fuck yeah, I am, and loving every minute of it!!”

Watch the official video for Youth Is Wasted HERE

A refreshing, unorthodox counter to the typical pop artist, Tilly Kingston was born for the stage – a good thing, too, seeing as she has spent her whole life sleeping in a bed just a few feet away from one.

The North Sound and Sultans Of String Team Up To Sing The Sound Of The Prairies In “Sweet Alberta”

Thu Feb 29 2024
Sultans of String

“Sweet Alberta” is the new single off the Sultans of String album entitled Walking Through the Fire, the most ambitious and important project of their career, a CD and concert of collaborations with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit artists across Turtle Island. The song started as a poem penned by Grammy nominated and legendary Chippewa/Anishinaabe Elder Dr. Duke Redbird, set to music by Chris McKhool and Sultans of String.

This track features the gorgeous vocals of The North Sound, formed in 2014 by lead singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Forrest Eaglespeaker along with his wife Nevada Eaglespeaker who composes and provides vocal harmonies.

Keeping true to the traditions of Forrest’s heritage, The North Sound was created to share stories of Forrest’s Blackfoot identity and traditions from Treaty 7 Territory. This track was perfectly suited to these award-winning artists, with their connection to the land.

Corey Hart’s Legacy: Where the ‘Sunglasses At Night’ Singer Is Now

Thu Feb 29 2024
Corey Hart

From fashion to film and television, recent years have seen a massive resurgence of the glitz and glamour of the ‘80s in popular culture. Even music is no exception, with model and television host Heidi Klum recently releasing a cover of the ‘80s song ‘Sunglasses At Night’ as her new single. Prior to Klum’s cover, musical artist and composer Loïk Gome (BFRND) has also reworked the same tune, originally sung by Canadian singer Corey Hart, to show off Balenciaga’s SS21 collection.

The original ‘Sunglasses At Night’ was released in 1984 as the first single of Hart’s debut album, ‘First Offense.’ Due to its unique melody and catchy hook, the song was an instant hit, peaking at No. 7 on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart. Now that it has been 40 years since the song was released, fans and casual listeners may be wondering where Hart is now and what he is up to. So, we look at Hart’s legacy as a talented musician and one of Canada’s biggest ‘80s artists.

Montreal Punk Suffragettes Bad Skin Take A Vacation From Restraint With “We Are The Girls”

Thu Feb 29, 2024

How many paeans to the power of women are we going to have to hear? If you dared ask Montreal grunge-pop punkers Bad Skin that question, the answer you’d get would probably be “Until you get it through your thick skull.”

Waving their musical middle finger proudly in the tradition of musical forebears like L7, Bikini Kill and No Doubt, the Canadian quartet make their own contribution to the hear-us-roar tradition with “We Are the Girls,” an exhilarating anthem that proves it’s never a bad time to fly the flag for the sisterhood—especially when you do it with the style, smarts and sass of this perfectly turned single, which has “instant classic” graffiti-ed all over it.

Check it out on YouTube here:

Church of Trees Release New Album “Transience”

Fri Feb 23, 2024

Church of Trees is a Canadian synthpop band, whose debut Primitive Creatures (2017) charted in Japan, the UK, and across Canada. Since then, the band has released 7 albums that have spawned number 1 singles, such as World's a Bitch (ft Rough Trade’s Carole Pope), Like Gary Numan, and Believe It Or Not. Their albums have been played on 4 continents and have landed on Top Ten charts on college and independent radio in Canada, The UK, and France/Switzerland, as well as Best Of album charts from 2017 to 2023. They have performed with legendary Canadian band Rough Trade and Broadway’s Rob Preuss, and have played such iconic venues as Toronto’s El Mocambo, Ottawa’s Bronson Centre, and Wakefield’s Black Sheep Inn.

Their new album, Transience, takes a giant leap in a new sonic direction. Punching a hole in synthpop, the album artfully crosses genres, from art-pop to Indie rock, and from synth, to ambient. Think MGMT and Foster the People meets Gary Numan and Eno. Featuring stunning vocals by Stella Panacci, Heather Brazeau, and bandleader Bernard Frazer.

Laden with hooky vocal melodies and intricate harmonies, the album is a testament to great teamwork,

Bravo Robert Priest on a great live performance and a jazzy fantastic new release!

Fri Feb 23 2024
Robert Priest

“People Like You And Me”

The older audience magic hour seems to be Sundays two and six, the new Hugh’s Room Live was packed. It’s a classic neighborhood church 296 Broadview Avenue in Toronto.

Very simple stage , bar no food, chairs. Nice balcony.

Classic coffee house vibe with no coffee or tea?

Love the pews on the side, on the stage no place to hide.

Went to see my old friend Robert Priest, backed by some of the greatest musicians in the city to launch his new record “People like you and me!”

I have long since been a fan of Robert Priest poetry, he made poetry accessible to everyone who wanted to pick up a pen or perform poetry live.

Today at Hugh’s room backed two bands first a more traditional folk duo that changes into more jazz ensemble , including guitarists Bob Cohen ,David Hines and special guest Alison Young on saxophone and guitarist supreme Kevin Breit. The performance flowed well and Robert’s trumpet playing was a wonderful surprise addition to the jazz feel of his latest release.

OSHEAGA! Stacked Lineup Includes Established Megastars And Leaders Of The New Vanguard!

Fri Feb 23 2024
OSHEAGA

The 2024 edition of the OSHEAGA Music and Arts Festival presented by Bell in collaboration with Coors Light is fast approaching and this year’s wide array of performers is nothing short of exceptional - balancing legends with up-and-comers, high energy with intimacy, and all the bombast fans have come to expect from a leading-edge top-tier festival. For the 17th edition, the OSHEAGA booking team has curated the festival with the express mission of appealing to fans of every genre, style, and generation.

Starting with the three exceptional headliners on down, there is something for everyone, and discoveries galore! Green Day sets the tone for the rock and punk crowd, with plenty of punk rock fire to please the fans, courtesy of old school legends Rancid, LA rockers The Linda Lindas, 90’s indie favourites Sleater-Kinney, and grunge icons The Smashing Pumpkins, who haven’t graced the OSHEAGA stage since the festival's 2nd edition in back in 2007!

Release The Sounds: Hit Artists Share Their Stories On ‘Let That Music Out!’ Podcast

Fri Feb 23 2024
Let That Music Out!

In the music business, few things are as helpful as an example. That’s the rationale behind Let That Music Out!—an independent, artist-driven FM radio show and podcast that offers an invaluable and enlightening look into the workings of the industry circa 2024.

Check it out here: thesingerscompany.com/let-that-music-out-radiopodcast

Based in Toronto and syndicated on Indie 101.5 and Philly Jamz 95.3 in the U.S.A., and CHHA 1610am back home, LTMO! features new music releases, interviews, discussions, and personal stories from industry leaders and recording artists. It’s analysis with an insider edge, crafted for anybody who wants to get in the game.

The show was made possible by the successes of The Singer’s Company, a record label, music-publishing operation and management firm founded by a dream team of music-biz pros—including highly pedigreed producer, songwriter and A&R executive Roy Hamilton III, for whom the program is both a passion project and the fulfillment of a personal vision.

You Get Bigger as You Go – A Personal Interview with Author M.D. Dunn

Fri Feb 16, 2024

I have just finished reading “You Get Bigger as you Go”, Bruce Cockburn’s Influence and Evolution by author M.D. Dunn.

What a wonderful rabbit hole to fall into! I As the reader, I was immersed for weeks in Bruce’s music, playing the tracks from all the albums that Dunn delves into, as I read the book. I followed the timeline along with Mark Dunn’s research and exploration of all Cockburn’s albums. This book explores the profound influence and remarkable evolution of Cockburn’s music. A renowned Canadian singer songwriter and guitarist, Cockburn has entertained and educated listeners for over five decades.

Speaking with Mark recently about the book, we discussed the fact that Bruce is like a war correspondent, a journalist observing through his lens of music the times we live in, complimented by the poetry of his complex guitar phrasing. Cockburn digs deep into the pathos of the song.

Mark reflected that: “Bruce is almost always the narrator in these songs, and they are not always about him, but they are always a reflection of his point of view.”

Badfinger Legend Pete Ham’s Legacy Shines On With the Release of “Gwent Gardens”, February 23rd on Y&T Music

Sat Feb 10 2024
Pete Ham

Nearly 50 years after his untimely passing at the age of 27, Pete Ham is still giving the world beautiful music.

The iconic singer and guitarist for the beloved Welsh/English band Badfinger was a prolific songwriter. Released as a limited-edition CD from Y&T Music, “Gwent Gardens” includes 18 newly discovered home demos, many of them songs that were never recorded or released by either Badfinger or the group’s earlier incarnation, The Iveys. The album will also be available on all streaming services. 

Recorded between 1966 and 1972 with guitar or piano accompaniment, the songs on “Gwent Gardens” are remarkably tuneful blueprints for what might have been. Often double tracking his vocals, Pete also overdubbed additional instruments onto the tracks, fleshing out his vision for what the final Iveys or Badfinger tracks would sound like.

A Great Taste In Music: February’s “Flavours & Vibes” Curated By Jones & Jones Serves Up A Full Menu Of Styles

Sat Feb 10 2024
Flavours & Vibes

Mark the date and get ready to dig in! Flavours & Vibes will bring a sumptuous mix of uplifting sounds to Brampton’s The Rose Mainstage on February 22, 2024, in an evening of songs and sensations headlined by international roots, rock and reggae sensation Jesse Royal. With performances by The Human Rights, Omega Mighty, JUNO Award winner Kairo McLean and Joshua Lucas—and hosted by MC Bondé—the eagerly anticipated event will be a celebration of music in its truest form. Presented by Jones & Jones and Brampton On Stage, it’s a live-band experience that’ll have you rocking and swaying all night long.

This “Peace, Love, Unity Edition” of the crowd-pleasing pop-up has been engineered to, once again, connect worlds with a global blend of vibes that truly reflect the community. Positive energy will flow from a lineup that’s indicative of a diverse cultural mosaic, connecting listeners of all ages through the unifying power of music.

Let’s check out that overflowing buffet of skills:

Author M.D. DUNN Launches New Bruce Cockburn Book, You Get Bigger As You Go: Bruce Cockburn’s Influence and Evolution

Sat Feb 10 2024
Bruce Cockburn

Sault Ste. Marie native, musician and author M.D. Dunn is celebrating the release of his sixth book, You Get Bigger As You Go: Bruce Cockburn’s Influence and Evolution. The Sault Ste. Marie Museum will be hosting a book launch and listening party for the project this February 11th at 2:30pm.

Bruce Cockburn has enthralled audiences with his insightful lyrics and innovative guitar playing for over half a century. Hit songs like “Wondering Where the Lions Are,” “If I Had a Rocket Launcher,” and “Lovers in a Dangerous Time” are just part of the story. In You Get Bigger as You Go: Bruce Cockburn’s Influence and Evolution, musician and writer M.D. Dunn takes the reader on a humorous and obsessive quest to track Cockburn’s significant cultural footprint. Interviews with producers, musicians, activists, fans, as well as Bruce’s career-long manager, the legendary Bernie Finkelstein, and with the enigmatic Cockburn himself form the core of this critical assessment and appreciation. In these conversations, Cockburn and friends celebrate a life of music and social engagement.

Bara Jonson and Free – Knock Knock – Will You Answer?

Sat Feb 10, 2024

Their journey into a personal and musical relationship with Canada began in Newfoundland in 2019. Appearing on a showcase festival, the Newfies embraced them and the birth of the song “Hello Newfoundland” was a tribute to the people there which resulted in another tour and lifelong relationship. (And an official Kissing of the Cod Ceremony to make them both honourary Newfies!)

The new song “Knock Knock” is a follow-up song to “Hello Newfoundland” and is sure to be once again embraced by Newfies everywhere as well as the strong fan base they have established in the last few years.

Newfoundland is also where they met Sandy Graham, Canadian music industry icon, who immediately signed them to Entertainment Music Group Canada. This company has now morphed into EMG Collectives, a newly formed global entity of which they are major participants.

Travelling to all parts of the world had them meet up with Dance Plant Records out of Montreal, Quebec and now they are being released with this new single with a Canadian label, proving once again that music has no borders.

Check out the YouTube for Knock Knock here:

The Lightfoot Band presents The Songs of Gordon Lightfoot

Thu Feb 01 2024
The Lightfoot Band

This original lineup with their newest member, lead singer and rhythm guitarist, Andy Mauck, will perform selected songs from one of the world’s greatest songwriters. Featuring classics like Sundown, The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, If You Could Read My Mind, Beautiful & Carefree Highway. The classic repertoire of songs will come to life through the live performance of the band that helped create the unforgettable ‘Lightfoot Sound”.

Featuring the Original Gordon Lightfoot Touring Band: Rick Haynes, Barry Keane, Mike Heffernan & Carter Lancaster

Thursday, March 28 / 8PM : Flato Markham Theatre, 171 Town Centre Blvd, Markham, ON. Tickets Available Here

This unique show has been built around The Band that was at Lightfoot’s side for thousands of shows for over a half century.

The show will feature all of the favorites as well as some deep cuts that will deliver the ultimate Gordon Lightfoot fan experience. This is a Must See for Gordon Lightfoot fans as well as music lovers who never saw him in person!

CULTURAL GOODS GALLERY PRESENTS MOHAWK WARRIORS, HUNTERS & CHIEFS/ THE ART OF TOM WILSON TEHOHÁHAKE

Thu Feb 01 2024
MOHAWK WARRIORS, HUNTERS & CHIEFS

Official art book launch and exhibition opening February 2

Coming to Cultural Goods Gallery this February, Mohawk Warriors, Hunters & Chiefs will explore the personal story of Juno Award-winning singer, songwriter, musician and performer, Tom Wilson Tehoháhake. This specially organized exhibition presents a selection of works created between 2015 and 2024, and celebrates the launch of Mohawk Warriors, Hunters & Chiefs, a ground-breaking bilingual book that explores the paintings and iconography of Tom Wilson. In his early fifties, Tehoháhake accidentally discovered that he was adopted and that he was Mohawk from Kahnawake.

“There's blood memory that happened in my art. I’ve been painting really simple images since 1997. Even with a lack of identity, I was still expressing myself as an Indigenous artist, or as a Mohawk. And sure enough, now that I know that I’m a Mohawk, that sense of identity that I was lacking is now coming completely into focus in the work that I do,” says Tom Wilson Tehoháhake.

Lasso Montreal, Canada’s Exciting Country Festival Welcomes Some of the Biggest Names in Country Music

Thu Feb 01 2024
Lasso Montreal

Get them spurs shined up, because Canada’s most exciting country music festival, LASSO Montréal, presented by Bell in collaboration with Coors Original is coming back for an incredible third edition. This year, the massive previously-announced headliners Sam Hunt and Eric Church will be be joined by high-calibre artists: Dustin LynchBrett YoungTyler Hubbard, Megan MoroneyMatt LangKip MooreJosh Ross, Laurence St-Martin and many more!

It’s clear, after two hugely successful editions of LASSO, that Montreal is becoming a hotbed for country music. For two days this summer, fans from all over will gather to witness the best in country on the iconic festival grounds of Parc Jean-Drapeau (celebrating 150 years in 2024), overlooking the gorgeous Montreal skyline.