Legacy Performers

ALAN FREW

Toronto — Grammy nominated, Juno Award winning, multi-platinum Singer/Songwriter, Don't Forget Me (When I'm Gone) & Someday (Glass Tiger)

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Alan Frew is a multi-platinum selling songwriter, public speaker and author of the best-selling book ‘The Action Sandwich-A Six Step Recipe to Success by Doing What You’re Already Doing’. His work with Glass Tiger has garnered him five Juno Awards, a Grammy nomination and five Canadian Classic Awards in recognition of songs that have been played in excess of 100,000 times on Canadian Radio.

ALAN FREW

Alan Frew is a multi-platinum selling songwriter, public speaker and author of the best-selling book ‘The Action Sandwich-A Six Step Recipe to Success by Doing What You’re Already Doing’. His work with Glass Tiger has garnered him five Juno Awards, a Grammy nomination and five Canadian Classic Awards in recognition of songs that have been played in excess of 100,000 times on Canadian Radio. Additionally, he co-wrote, ‘I Believe’ (the theme song for CTV's coverage of the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games) performed by singer(s) Nikki Yanofsky and Annie Villeneuve ( en Francais). The song became an iconic hit with Canadians from all walks of life who helped it reach the status’s of 5-times platinum and in doing so, it made Yanofsky the most “downloaded” Canadian artist at that particular time. Alan also co-wrote the title track from Johnny Reid’s Juno-Nominated album “Fire it Up”, which was, coincidentally, also recorded to platinum status in Germany, by the legendary singer, Joe Cocker. Frew has toured with massive headlining artists including, Rod Stewart, Tina Turner and Fleetwood Mac. He also loves to support, visit and perform for the Canadian Armed Forces and their allies and has done so, many times in far-off reaches such as Bosnia, Israel, Egypt, Oman, Kuwait and Afghanistan. Never one to “settle” Alan is presently working on a new book, a movie script, and a pilot for a potential new TV show. He splits his time between his homes in Toronto and Italy. You can find him on his Instagram show FREW the Looking Glass : @alan_frew

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CHRIS DESTEFANO

Award-Winning singer/songwriter for #1 hits including Carrie Underwood's "Good Girl", Rascal Flatts' "Rewind", and Jason Aldean's "Just Getting Started". Chris is also a 3x CMA Triple Play Award winner

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Chris DeStefano is a singer/songwriter, producer/mixer and multi-instrumentalist based in Nashville, TN.  He is a 3x CMA Triple Play Award Winner and has co-penned over 20 hit songs for artists like Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, Chase Rice, Rascal Flatts, Billy Currington, Dan+Shay, Miranda Lambert, Chris Young and Morgan Evans.  Chris also is the President and CEO of Winsongs Music focused on developing songwriters and artists.

CHRIS DESTEFANO

A native of Mt Laurel, New Jersey, Chris DeStefano is a singer/songwriter, producer/mixer and multi-instrumentalist. Chris began singing at a very early age in the acclaimed Academy Boys Choir of Philadelphia. At age 13, he acquired his first guitar and remembers writing his very first songs shortly after. Driven by his passion for music and knack for picking up new instruments, DeStefano’s talents lead him to Boston’s prestigious Berklee College of Music where he studied film scoring.

Upon graduating, DeStefano followed the natural migration for many aspiring film score composers and moved to Los Angeles, California. However, what he discovered in LA was not the soundstage, but his gift for songwriting and producing. Setting his sights on the Country Airplay chart, Chris began splitting time between LA and Nashville, collaborating with some of Nashville’s hottest songwriters and artists. The transition was seamless and in early 2012 Chris charted his first country single with Jana Kramer’s “Why You Wanna” which peaked at #3 on the Billboard chart. Right on the heels of this success, DeStefano achieved his first Country chart topper #1 with the song “Good Girl” recorded by Country superstar Carrie Underwood.

Chris' #1 songs include Carrie Underwood ("Good Girl”, “Little Toy Guns”, “Smoke Break”, “Something in the Water”, Super Bowl LII and 2018 Olympic Games Theme Song “The Champion"), Dan + Shay (“From the Ground Up”, “Nothin’ Like You"), Jason Aldean (“Just Gettin’ Started”), Billy Currington (“Hey Girl”), Brett Eldredge (“Don’t Ya”), Luke Bryan (“That’s My Kind of Night”, “Kick the Dust Up"), Miranda Lambert (“Somethin’ Bad” [w-Carrie Underwood]), Chris Young (“Losing Sleep”), Morgan Evans (“Kiss Somebody”) and Rascal Flatts (“Rewind”), Tyler Rich “Leave Her Wild” (XM The Highway #1) and Chase Rice ("Eyes On You").

ACCOLADES AND NOTEWORTHY:

  • 3x CMA Triple Play Award winner.
  • 3x Award Winning Projects - Carrie Underwood - “Something in the Water”, “Somethin’ Bad”(w/Miranda Lambert) and Kelly Clarkson’s “Stronger” Album.
  • Formed Winsongs Publishing along with Kirby Smith in 2018 to develop songwriters and artists, signing hot young talents Emily Shackleton and Eric Van Houten.
  • Has the privilege of serving on the Board of Directors of NSAI.
  • Recently graduated from the FBI Citizens Academy 2018.
  • Currently an active Emergency Backup Goaltender for the NHL/Nashville Predators Hockey Team (2019-2020 Season).
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JEFF TROTT

Award-winning writer of If It Makes You Happy & Everyday is a Winding Road (Sheryl Crow)

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Award winning, singer-songwriter Jeff Trott has been a key member of the Nashville music community.

He has played in bands such as Wire Train, World Party, Pete Droge and Tears For Fears in addition to launching a solo record in 2001“Dig Up The Astroturf”. However, Trott's name is probably most recognizable among fans of Sheryl Crow, as he has co-written some her biggest hits including "If It Makes You Happy” "Everyday is a Winding Road” “A Change” "My Favorite Mistake”and “Soak Up The Sun”.

JEFF TROTT

Award winning, singer-songwriter Jeff Trott has been a key member of the Nashville music community.

He has played in bands such as Wire Train, World Party, Pete Droge and Tears For Fears in addition to launching a solo record in 2001“Dig Up The Astroturf”. However, Trott's name is probably most recognizable among fans of Sheryl Crow, as he has co-written some her biggest hits including "If It Makes You Happy” "Everyday is a Winding Road” “A Change” "My Favorite Mistake”and “Soak Up The Sun”.

Also, Jeff was awarded Songwriter of the Year by BMI in 1998.

More recently he has collaborated with Aaron Lee Tasjan, Devon Gilfillian, Jillian Jacqueline, Lucie Silvas, James Mercer (of The Shins) The Brummies, Brandy Clark, Randy Houser, Clare Dunne andco wrote New West artist Andrew Combs’ latest single “Save Somebody Else.”

Trott has also established himself as highly respected producer,producing two songs for Stevie Nicks on the soundtrack of Practical Magic. More recently he produced and wrote songs for the 2019 Hootie and The Blowfish record “Imperfect Circle,” Aaron Lee Tasjan's album "Karma For Cheap" as well as producing albums and songs for Sheryl Crow for the album “Be Myself and recently a song on “Threads”.

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jefftrott.com

JESSI ALEXANDER

Nashville — Award-winning Songwriter. Hits include The Climb (Miley Cyrus) and I Drive Your Truck (Lee Brice)

Established Singer/ Songwriter, Jessi Alexander, is the writer of some the chart topping hits on country radio. Alexander has penned five #1’s including “I Drive Your Truck” recorded by Lee Brice which won Song of the Year from the 2013 CMA Awards, 2014 ACM Awards, and 2013 NSAI Awards. Additional #1’s which include Blake Shelton’s “Mine Would Be You” and “Drink On It”.

JESSI ALEXANDER

Established Singer/ Songwriter, Jessi Alexander, is the writer of some the chart topping hits on country radio. Alexander has penned five #1’s including “I Drive Your Truck” recorded by Lee Brice which won Song of the Year from the 2013 CMA Awards, 2014 ACM Awards, and 2013 NSAI Awards. Additional #1’s which include Blake Shelton’s “Mine Would Be You” and “Drink On It”.

Alexander’s career skyrocketed with her song “The Climb”. Miley Cyrus recorded the song and it soon became the anthem for her box office hit “The Hannah Montana Movie” and won the 2009 MTV Movie Awards ‘Best Song From A Movie’.

In June 2020 she celebrated a #1 with Scotty McCreery’s “In Between” with co-writers Scotty McCreary, Frank Rogers and Jonathan Singleton, becoming the second-greatest ascent to the top in the Billboard Country Airplay chart’s 30 year history. Also in 2020 Jessi released “Decatur County Red”. The collection finds Alexander at her most honest and vulnerable, looking back on her humble Tennessee roots and tracing her remarkable journey through heartbreak and joy, pain and reconciliation, disappointment and triumph.

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jessialexandermusic.com

KIM MITCHELL

Multi-platinum, Juno Award-winning Rock icon and inductee of the 2021/22 Canadian Songwriters Hall Of Fame

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Kim Mitchell is a Canadian rock icon who has sold more than 1.5 million records in Canada, earned 17 Juno Awards nominations, and, in 2021, was inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame.

KIM MITCHELL

Kim Mitchell is a Canadian rock icon who has sold more than 1.5 million records in Canada, earned 17 Juno Awards nominations, and, in 2021, was inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame.

Mitchell is one of the most well-known and peer-respected Canadian guitar players and an acclaimed singer-songwriter who has written many classic rock anthems including Go For Soda, Rock N Roll Duty, Patio Lanterns, I am a Wild Party, Easy To Tame and All We Are. These hits have become part of the Canadian musical landscape and earned Mitchell three Juno Award wins for “Male Vocalist of the year”, “Album of the year”, and “Most promising Male Vocalist.”

In 2018, Kim got together with his friends The Barenaked Ladies to record a new version of his Max Webster hit Diamonds Diamonds. Max Webster, and this track in particular, is cited by the band members as being a huge influence for them as musicians. The resulting song and accompanying video were released in 2019. The song and accompanying video were released in 2019 through Ole Media (now Anthem Entertainment)

In 2021, Kim Mitchell dropped his latest album, The Big Fantasize (El Mocambo Records)

This release came together as the result of Kim working with his close friend, Grammy award winning producer Greg Wells (Keith Urban, Adele, Taylor Swift, Katy Perry, Twenty One Pilots, Michael Bublé), who is also a former band-mate, having been the touring keyboardist for Kim Mitchell’s Rockland tour.

On top of maintaining a busy nationwide touring schedule, Kim also hosted the fan favourite radio show, aptly named The Kim Mitchell Show on Toronto’s popular Q107. Kim’s show ran for 11+ years and became one of the most popular, listened to and highest-rated radio shows for any afternoon drive DJ in Canada.

Kim and his band of accomplished musicians can’t wait to get back to live music and look forward to bringing some much needed cheer to cities and festivals across Canada this summer 2022. Look for Kim dates across Canada for the summer of 2022.

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MADDISON KREBS

Okotoks, AB — Canadian Country’s Rising Star. Great new single, Dreamer Kid

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There’s a classic timelessness and a sense of poise to Maddison Krebs that you won’t often find in someone of her era. The 25 year old singer-songwriter, native to Southern Alberta, has spent the last 3 years in Nashville honing her musical abilities and song-craftsmanship with intention to create depth, meaning, integrity, and love behind her music.

MADDISON KREBS

There’s a classic timelessness and a sense of poise to Maddison Krebs that you won’t often find in someone of her era. The 25 year old singer-songwriter, native to Southern Alberta, has spent the last 3 years in Nashville honing her musical abilities and song-craftsmanship with intention to create depth, meaning, integrity, and love behind her music. Upon experiencing Maddison Krebs’ music, persona, and performance, you might consider Lana Del Ray with a nod to Dolly Parton. She will leave you feeling moved; as though you, yourself experienced each and every emotion channeled through her songs firsthand. It will inspire you to somehow share that experience and create a meaningful shift in the world around you.

“A clean, simple and classic tone that sounds as if it comes from country music’s beginnings.” - Calgary Herald

“Maddison Krebs has one of those voices you listen to and instantly feel like you've known her your whole life.” - PopDust

Maddison has worked with some of the music industry’s best producers and songwriters including Jeff Trott (Sheryl Crow, Stevie Nicks) and Tony Martin (Tim McGraw, Keith Urban). Her single “Real Real Thing: hit Top 40 on the Radio Disney Country Chart and her 2019 self-titled EP gained notable recognition. She has performed at major venues and stages across North America including: The Bluebird Cafe, Canadian Music Week, The Listening Room, Big Valley Jamboree, Folk Alliance International, The Calgary Stampede, amongst many more. And in 2015 she was one of six across Canada nominated for the Canadian Country Music
Association’s Discovery Program. Currently, she has been selected as one of the Top 12 for the prestigious Alberta artist development program: Project Wild where she has the opportunity to win over 100k to go towards her career. Check out her newly released single called, DREAMER KID available on all streaming platforms.

Maddison Krebs is spending this year crafting the songs that will make up the body of her next highly anticipated album.

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MARC JORDAN

Toronto — Multiple Platinum Artist/Songwriter - Marina Del Rey (Marc Jordan) and Rhythm of My Heart (Rod Stewart)

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Marc was born in Brooklyn NY son of singer Charles Jordan and grew up in Toronto Canada. In 1978 Marc was signed to Warner Music in Burbank California by Steely Dan Producer Gary Katz. Jordan spent 16 years in LA writing songs for and with Diana Ross, Chicago, Kansas, Manhattan Transfer, Kenny Loggins, Amanda Marshal, Amy Sky, Bette Midler, Natalie Cole, Roch Voisin, Canadian Tenors. Shawn Colvin, Sheena Easton, Olivia Newton John, Joe Cocker, Bonnie Raitt, Josh Groban, Cher and Rod Stewart including the world wide #1 hit Rhythm of My Heart.

MARC JORDAN

Marc was born in Brooklyn NY son of singer Charles Jordan and grew up in Toronto Canada. In 1978 Marc was signed to Warner Music in Burbank California by Steely Dan Producer Gary Katz. Jordan spent 16 years in LA writing songs for and with Diana Ross, Chicago, Kansas, Manhattan Transfer, Kenny Loggins, Amanda Marshal, Amy Sky, Bette Midler, Natalie Cole, Roch Voisin, Canadian Tenors. Shawn Colvin, Sheena Easton, Olivia Newton John, Joe Cocker, Bonnie Raitt, Josh Groban, Cher and Rod Stewart including the world wide #1 hit Rhythm of My Heart. Jordan has won numerous ASCAP, Juno, Socan and Smooth Jazz awards over the years. His songs have been on 35 million CD’s and he has recorded 16 CD’s of his own material which gave us MARINA DEL REY, SURVIVAL, CHARLIE PARKER LOVES ME and SOUL ON SOUL which was a duet with wife AMY SKY. Yet Jordan has always loved singing the American song book. The great songs of the mid 20th century and so finally he’s made that leap. On his new cd “BOTH SIDES “Jordan recorded with the Prague Symphony. Songs like “THE NEARNESS OF YOU” and “WHAT ARE YOU DOING THE REST OF YOUR LIFE” are sprinkled in with Joni Mitchel's “BOTH SIDES NOW” and Lou Reids master piece “WALK ON THE WILD SIDE”. Featuring Randy Brecker on trumpet this cd is both cool and modern and Jordan's voice drifts above it all with some of his best vocal performances ever.

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marcjordan.com

NEIL OSBORNE

Vancouver — Lead Singer of 54•40 - Hits include I Go Blind and Ocean Pearl

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As lead singer and chief songwriter of 54•40, Neil Osborne has achieved critical acclaim, released more than a dozen albums and weathered the fickle music business for more than three decades. He is known primarily as a rock musician but is also an accomplished producer often taking the production reins of 54•40 albums and is also a songwriter of amazing depth and clarity.

NEIL OSBORNE

As lead singer and chief songwriter of 54•40, Neil Osborne has achieved critical acclaim, released more than a dozen albums and weathered the fickle music business for more than three decades. He is known primarily as a rock musician but is also an accomplished producer often taking the production reins of 54•40 albums and is also a songwriter of amazing depth and clarity.

54.40’s body of work is impressive. After thirty years in the musical trenches, the band have varied their sound and earned proven commercial success via impressive record sales from thirteen studio albums, numerous greatest hits packages and a double live album. “One clue to 54•40’s longevity lies in their ability to make music that has a distinctly individual sound yet covers many styles - tender ballads, fiery rockers, provocative political songs, self-confessed lyrically banal romps.” Kerry Doole reported in Impact.

As a songwriter Osborne has penned such fabulous signature 54•40 songs as ‘I Go Blind’, One Day In Your Life,‘One Gun’, ‘Since When’ and ‘Ocean Pearl’’ which have crossed from the realm of rock to a broader base. His lyrics range from the most politically astute observation to the most innocent love song and everything in between.

Neil Osborne has been very active participant in the overall production of every 54•40 album. Osborne has produced several albums for other artists, most notably the award winning Small Glories, Cara Luft, Vince Vaccaro, Hearts and Wires, Paloma, Jets Overhead, Kandle (his daughter). Neil is currently wrapping up production for one of his side projects A Family Curse.

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TEIGEN GAYSE

Chetwynd, BC — Popular, BC-born, singer/songwriter. Recent singles and Country Music Chart hits include “I Don’t Wanna Fall in Love Anymore” and “Blame the Wine”

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Teigen Gayse is a Metis singer-songwriter whose music is fresh and familiar, hitting on deep and relatable topics.  She grew up in Chetwynd, BC.  A small town of 3000, affectionately known as “Little Prairie”.  Music was her escape from the forestry, oil & gas, mining and ranching environment she was surrounded by.  This singer/songwriter’s lyrics and melodies are catchy.

TEIGEN GAYSE

Teigen Gayse is a Metis singer-songwriter whose music is fresh and familiar, hitting on deep and relatable topics. She grew up in Chetwynd, BC. A small town of 3000, affectionately known as “Little Prairie”. Music was her escape from the forestry, oil & gas, mining and ranching environment she was surrounded by. This singer/songwriter’s lyrics and melodies are catchy. Gayse’s sweet, raspy voice delivers a fun, effervescent sound that draws her audience in and explains the undying support of her hometown always believing that she was “going to make it”.

After moving to Kelowna to pursue an audio engineering degree and continue her music aspirations, Teigen recorded “I Don’t Want to Fall In Love Anymore” which was quickly recognized by Stingray Radio and recently won their Trending Track competition. Teigen released her debut album during the pandemic which presented major challenges. With a tough spirit and immeasurable moxie, Teigen stuck to her path and continued to write and record new music for radio, and fans she’d amassed on social media, music streaming platforms and TikTok. The proven commitment resulted in that same song. “I Don’t Wanna Fall In Love Anymore” registering on the Billboard Country Music charts top 50.

Teigen hopes her musical journey will inspire girls everywhere to chase their dreams. To step into their power and take life by the horns.

On a recent visit to Farmhouse Vineyards in Texas, Teigen was inspired to write her new single, “Blame The Wine” which can be heard on country radio and all streaming platforms.

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teigengayse.com

TIM NICHOLS

Nashville — Grammy Winner - Live Like You Were Dying (Tim McGraw)

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Inducted into the 2017 class of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, award winning songwriter, Tim Nichols, has been writing hit songs and entertaining audiences for over two decades. A veteran in the country music industry, he's become one of the genre's most respected and well liked members. He's known for an easy-going, honest manner, creative lyrics and a comedic banter onstage.

TIM NICHOLS

Inducted into the 2017 class of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame, award winning songwriter, Tim Nichols, has been writing hit songs and entertaining audiences for over two decades. A veteran in the country music industry, he's become one of the genre's most respected and well liked members. He's known for an easy-going, honest manner, creative lyrics and a comedic banter onstage.

While fans of classic country music appreciate his number one hits for artists like Alan Jackson, Reba McEntire, Keith Whitley, LeeAnn Womack and multiple others, newcomers are just as thrilled about his recent work. You may recognize songs cut by Blake Shelton, Jason Aldean, Chris Young or Jana Kramer when he takes the stage in a writer's show. And of course, crowd favourites include record setting hits like JoDee Messina's "Heads Carolina, Tails California", Dustin Lynch's "Cowboys and Angels" and the Grammy Award winning "Live Like You Were Dying" recorded by Tim McGraw. Nichols is a writer, and performer for all ages and never ceases in his quest to move people and touch hearts with his honest lyrics.

When not writing songs or performing, Nichols spends free time volunteering and raising funds for charitable causes such as High Hopes Pediatric Clinic and the T.J. Martell Foundation.

Nichols lives in Nashville with his wife Stacie. They are avid travelers with many of those adventures centering around bringing incredible music to those in far reaching locales.

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BRYAN POTVIN

Nova Scotia — 8x Juno Nominated Singer/Songwriter - Lead Singer of The Northern Pikes - Hits include She Ain't Pretty

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Bryan Potvin is best known as a singer/songwriter, guitarist, and founding member of The Northern Pikes, the iconic Canadian rockers from Saskatoon. Bryan’s love of music began early. In the summer ‘75, at the age of 12, he worked on a potato farm in Victoria, B.C. to earn enough to buy his first guitar, a Japanese Mann Les Paul Standard.

BRYAN POTVIN

Bryan Potvin is best known as a singer/songwriter, guitarist, and founding member of The Northern Pikes, the iconic Canadian rockers from Saskatoon. Bryan’s love of music began early. In the summer ‘75, at the age of 12, he worked on a potato farm in Victoria, B.C. to earn enough to buy his first guitar, a Japanese Mann Les Paul Standard. When his family moved to Saskatchewan, he worked part-time throughout high school to feed his guitar lesson and record-buying habits. Some things never change...

The Northern Pikes formed in the winter of 1984. In 2019, they released their 14th album, Forest of Love. In 2020, they will release a roots version of their 1990 smash, Snow in June. The band has also just completed a new album for release in 2021.

In addition to the Pikes, Bryan worked as A&R Manager for Mercury Records Canada from 1994-2000. He released two solo albums: Heartbreakthrough (2001) and Heartbledwhite (2013). In 2014, He formed a new musical partnership with singer/songwriter & guitarist Kevin Kane of The Grapes Of Wrath (now also a member of The Northern Pikes). The duo released a full-length album entitled Kane & Potvin (2016). Over the last twenty-plus years, Bryan has also composed regularly for film and television.

Bryan is currently enrolled in Boston’s Berklee College of Music’s bachelor degree program, and hopes to graduate in 2022. He lives in beautiful Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, with his wife Kate.

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thenorthernpikes.com

DAVE RAVE

Hamilton, Ontario — Lead Singer of Legendary CDN Rock Band Teenage Head - Hits include Some Kinda Fun & Let’s Shake

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Songwriter Dave Rave, lead singer for noted Canadian punk band Teenage Head, dubbed “Canada’s Nick Lowe”, has rocked the world from Hamilton, Ontario all the way to Russia. New York City-based, Rave can lay claim to being the first Canadian artist (The Dave Rave Group) signed to a Russian label (Melodiya). Teenage Head crashed onto the Canadian music scene with a couple of riotous appearances at the Last Pogo show at Toronto’s Horseshoe Tavern in 1978.

DAVE RAVE

Songwriter Dave Rave, lead singer for noted Canadian punk band Teenage Head, dubbed “Canada’s Nick Lowe”, has rocked the world from Hamilton, Ontario all the way to Russia. New York City-based, Rave can lay claim to being the first Canadian artist (The Dave Rave Group) signed to a Russian label (Melodiya). Teenage Head crashed onto the Canadian music scene with a couple of riotous appearances at the Last Pogo show at Toronto’s Horseshoe Tavern in 1978.  At that city’s Ontario Place in the summer of 1980, Teenage Head was touring their gold breakthrough album, Frantic City.  The event was over-sold and resulted in the Toronto Punk Rock Riot. That same summer, the band opened Heat Wave, the all-star punk/new wave festival at Mosport Park in Bowmanville, Ontario, in front of a crowd of 100,000. Along the way, Rave has worked with some of the music world’s elites including producer Daniel Lanois (U2, Peter Gabriel); alternative rocker, Alex Chilton (Box Tops, Big Star); Paul Hyde (The Payola$), on a North American tour called The Grand Song Caravan in the early 2000s; and ECMA winners/Juno nominees, The Trews, co-writing the band’s single, “I Can’t Say” with legendary producer, Jack Richardson (The Guess Who, Bob Seger). An enduring creative relationship with former band-mate Lauren Angelli has resulted in three Agnelli/Rave albums. In 2007 he released his second jazz-pop album, the Grammy short-listed, In the Blue of My Dreams, with Mark McCarron. In 2009, besides playing the Grey Cup and doing three tours of Europe, he worked with The Trews on the song “How’s Everything” for their Top 10 DVD.  His 2010 album, Live with What You Know, resulted in the U.S. Top 40 hit, “Anne Marie.” Rave is currently finalizing the release of his latest album, Essential, due out this fall.

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GORD BAMFORD

Alberta — Multi Award Winning Singer/Songwriter, #1 Hits - Dive Bar & When Your Lips Are So Close (Gord Bamford)

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Alberta-raised Gord Bamford, stands as one of the most decorated artists in Canadian country music with an impressive 26 Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) awards, multi JUNO nominations and the only two-time winner of Nashville’s Country Music Association (CMA) Global Country Artist of the Year award.

GORD BAMFORD

Alberta-raised Gord Bamford, stands as one of the most decorated artists in Canadian country music with an impressive 26 Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) awards, multi JUNO nominations and the only two-time winner of Nashville’s Country Music Association (CMA) Global Country Artist of the Year award.

It is his distinctive sound and songwriting ability that defines Gord Bamford as one of country music’s best neotraditional artists. Like so many others that have come before him, Bamford is just not an overnight success. He has spent the better part of the last 20 years honing his craft & working hard to get where he is today.

Bamford's highly anticipated 10th studio album Diamonds in a Whiskey Glass is set to release early 2021. His last album Neon Smoke, was released in early 2018 containing the smash #1 chart topper Dive Bar and follows his Tin Roof album, winner of the 2016 CCMA ‘Album of The Year’. Tin Roof, nominated for the 2016 JUNO Country Album of The Year, follows the Juno Nominated Country Junkie album and it’s #1 hit song ‘When Your Lips Are So Close’. He is a 3-time CCMA ‘Male Artist of the Year’

Gord is a man who believes with his whole heart in giving back. The Gord Bamford Charitable Foundation has generated over $4 million since its inception in 2008 for children’s charities such as the Make-A-Wish-Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, Big Brothers & Big Sisters, numerous children’s hospitals across Canada and
MusiCounts. That humble, likeable approach is what continues to draw legions of new fans to Gord Bamford's legacy.

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gordbamford.com

JESSICA MITCHELL

Toronto — Award Winning Singer/Songwriter - Somebody Gonna Get Hurt (Jessica Mitchell), Courage (Celine Dion) and Workin' on Whiskey (Trisha Yearwood)

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Singer-songwriter Jessica Mitchell has been lauded as ‘country’s Adele’ and likened to Sheryl Crow, and much like them, her genre-bending vocals and tone are universally appealing. She is, at heart, a storyteller– an open book, inspired by the raw honesty and storytelling nature of the genre.

JESSICA MITCHELL

Singer-songwriter Jessica Mitchell has been lauded as ‘country’s Adele’ and likened to Sheryl Crow, and much like them, her genre-bending vocals and tone are universally appealing. She is, at heart, a storyteller– an open book, inspired by the raw honesty and storytelling nature of the genre. Mitchell’s much anticipated debut album Heart of Glass, was released May 11, 2018. She has spent the last decade travelling between Toronto and Nashville, collaborating with top-notch songwriters, focusing on writing new music and crafting her richly unique sound. The record embodies powerful and soulful melodies and lyrical brilliance, while showcasing Mitchell’s vocal talent in the purest of forms – and the result is utterly and heart breakingly beautiful.

Over the course of the last two years, Mitchell has toured with iconic names across varied genres, including; Kiefer Sutherland, Royal Wood, Ron Sexsmith, Terri Clark, Bonnie Raitt. In 2018, she hit the road on a cross-country tour with Canadian icon, Johnny Reid, which is soon be book ended with tours alongside Glass Tiger and Dean Brody, on his Dirt Road Acoustic Tour. All roads have led to her first-ever solo tour which kicks-off in Calgary on November 14, and includes legendary venues such as The Great Hall in Toronto.

Mitchell’s “Workin’ on Whiskey” was the top added song to radio at the time of release. 2016 and 2017 were ground-breaking years for the rising star, which saw Mitchell snag a coveted Guild Sponsorship, take to the stage at major festivals, and honour Neil Young with a Tribute at the Songwriters Hall of Fame Gala at Massey Hall.

Mitchell believes that pain and loss are oftentimes at the heart of every relatable piece of music. As she puts it, “You’ll never see the light until it’s completely dark, and it got dark for a while.” After losing her mother to a long battle with cancer, Mitchell had her own epiphany about what kind of artist she wanted to become. Her hope is that by sharing grief, and other personal experiences through her music, she will forge genuine bonds with her audience. When listening to Mitchell’s music, she makes it very easy for you to latch on to her genuine, powerful lyrics – while making just anyone realize they are not alone.

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jessicamitchellmusic.com

CAROLYN DAWN JOHNSON

Alberta — Multi-Award Winning Singer/Songwriter - Single White Female (Chely Wright), Complicated (Carolyn Dawn Johnson), Georgia (Carolyn Dawn Johnson)

After inking a record deal with Sony’s Arista Nashville in 2000, Johnson produced music of her own with the release of her debut album titled Room With a View. The critically acclaimed project spawned the Top 5 smash “Complicated,” as well as other hit singles such as “Georgia” and top 10 “I Don’t Want You to Go.” Albums to follow included Dress Rehearsal in 2004, her independently released Love & Negotiation in 2006 and Love Rules in 2010. Johnson also criss-crossed the country on many high-profile tours as the opening act for the likes of Reba McEntire, Alan Jackson, Kenny Chesney and Keith Urban.

CAROLYN DAWN JOHNSON

Just four short years after making the 60-hour drive from Vancouver, BC Canada to Music City U.S.A., Carolyn Dawn Johnson scored her first chart-topping hit as a songwriter when Chely Wright took “Single White Female” all the way to No. 1. The success then led to publishing deals and cuts with several other artists including Patty Loveless, Mindy McCready, Kathy Mattea, Pam Tillis, SheDaisy Lila McCann, Suzy Bogguss, Linda Davis, Jo Dee Messina & more. Johnson was named Breakthrough Songwriter of the Year in 2000 by Music Row, and has continued to wear that title well as one of Nashville’s most loved and respected songsmiths.

After inking a record deal with Sony’s Arista Nashville in 2000, Johnson produced music of her own with the release of her debut album titled Room With a View. The critically acclaimed project spawned the Top 5 smash “Complicated,” as well as other hit singles such as “Georgia” and top 10 “I Don’t Want You to Go.” Albums to follow included Dress Rehearsal in 2004, her independently released Love & Negotiation in 2006 and Love Rules in 2010. Johnson also criss-crossed the country on many high-profile tours as the opening act for the likes of Reba McEntire, Alan Jackson, Kenny Chesney and Keith Urban.

In addition to the side work with other artists, Johnson has earned elite titles such as the Canadian Country Music Awards - Producer of the Year in 2004 and 2009 for her hand in producing many Canadian-based projects.

“I do a lot of things, but it always comes back to the music and the songs. It’s time to share some of those again with my audience. Music is truly what makes my world go round.”

Carolyn is currently writing, recording and touring with the acoustic band JD & The Straight Shot, based out of New York, with plans to record another album of her own on the horizon.

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DEANNA M.

Fan Favorite X-Factor UK 2018

Maybe it’s something in the Caribbean water that's producing music's newest hottest stars and songs. Hailing from the small Caribbean island of Anguilla, Deanna jumps right in the fray with her stunning performances at X Factor UK. With outstanding comments from all judges, to becoming a fan and media favourite while garnering major press, Deanna sang her heart out and made it to the final stages of the show.

DEANNA M.

Maybe it’s something in the Caribbean water that's producing music's newest hottest stars and songs. Hailing from the small Caribbean island of Anguilla, Deanna jumps right in the fray with her stunning performances at X Factor UK. With outstanding comments from all judges, to becoming a fan and media favourite while garnering major press, Deanna sang her heart out and made it to the final stages of the show.

Like most fairy tales Deanna was at home, a regular island girl, hitting the beach, texting with friends and singing for family when the industry came calling. A heavy hitter showcase in Anguilla organized by music industry giants Ivan Berry and Max Gousse, brought many senior music executives, and thereafter many trips to Los Angeles and Toronto to work with multi-platinum and Grammy Award winning producers, songwriters and music executives, led her on the right path.

Deanna is currently songwriting and recording for her debut album. Deanna created an amazing catalogue of songs when she inked a publishing deal with ole, one of the World’s foremost music publishers and rights management companies, which handles the likes of Timbaland and many others.

Deanna is currently an independent recording artist, songwriter and entrepreneur with hopes of showcasing her God given talents to the World.

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DERIC RUTTAN

Ontario — Grammy Nominated Songwriter/Recording Artist - Mine Would Be You (Blake Shelton) and That's How I Wanna Go Out (Deric Ruttan)

Deric Ruttan is a Grammy-nominated, Nashville-based singer/songwriter and a Canadian country music artist. The writer of multiple #1 country songs, Deric was raised just outside Bracebridge, Ontario, on land where his great grandfather made moonshine in the 1930’s. It was the perfect backdrop for the singer/songwriter, who grew up listening to everything from CCR to Gordon Lightfoot to Johnny Cash. After touring with several country bar bands, Deric moved to Nashville, where his unique outlook and delivery attracted the attention and praise of songwriters Don Schlitz, Steve Earle, and Steve Bogard.

DERIC RUTTAN

Deric Ruttan is a Grammy-nominated, Nashville-based singer/songwriter and a Canadian country music artist. The writer of multiple #1 country songs, Deric was raised just outside Bracebridge, Ontario, on land where his great grandfather made moonshine in the 1930’s. It was the perfect backdrop for the singer/songwriter, who grew up listening to everything from CCR to Gordon Lightfoot to Johnny Cash. After touring with several country bar bands, Deric moved to Nashville, where his unique outlook and delivery attracted the attention and praise of songwriters Don Schlitz, Steve Earle, and Steve Bogard. Deric has had over 70 songs recorded by other artists, including cuts by Blake Shelton, Jason Aldean, Eric Church, Tim McGraw, Dierks Bentley, Darius Rucker, Justin Moore and David Nail to name a few. Bentley’s chart-toppers “What Was I Thinkin’”, (Billboard #1), and “Lot Of Leavin’ Left To Do” (Radio & Records #2) are Ruttan co-writes, as are the Eric Church hits, “Guys Like Me” and “Hell On The Heart” (Mediabase #8). Since signing with THiS Music/Warner Chappell, Deric’s songwriting star has continued to rise. In November 2013, he celebrated a multi-week #1 song when “Mine Would Be You”, recorded by country superstar and The Voice judge Blake Shelton, was a three-week number one (Billboard) for the artist. “Mine Would Be You” was also nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Country Song, and an ACM Award for Song Of The Year. In June 2016 Deric celebrated his second Blake Shelton #1 hit with the introspective “Came Here To Forget”. In July 2016, MCA Nashville’s David Nail took the Ruttan summer anthem “Night’s On Fire” to #10 on the Mediabase chart, and in April of 2017 Deric celebrated his 4th #1 country single when Jason Aldean took his song “Any Ol’ Barstool” to the top of both the Billboard and Mediabase country charts. In May 2019 Mercury Nashville duo Maddie & Tae released the Deric-penned song “Die From A Broken Heart” as their latest single to country radio. An ASCAP (8x), SOCAN (10x), CCMA (Canadian Country Music Association) (2x), and CMAO (Country Music Association Of Ontario) (5x) award winner, Deric has headlined 4 of his own coast-to-coast tours in Canada, where he has had 11 Top 10 singles as an artist, and 2 #1 videos on CMT. He is currently in the studio recording music for a new EP. He lives just outside Nashville, TN with his wife Margaret.

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GARY O’

Toronto — Juno Nominated Singer/Songwriter - Back Where You Belong (38 Special)

“To say that music has been a huge part of my life, would be an understatement.” That’s what Canadian singer/songwriter GARY O’ would tell you. Son of a famous bandleader, he was raised on a strict diet of Ray Charles and The Beatles and the great melodies that came from that music. Great influences for a future songwriter. Before venturing out on his solo career, GARY was an accomplished session guitarist and toured North America with the very first Beatle clone band (Liverpool), which became the Broadway hit “Beatlemania”. First attempt at writing a song resulted in the radio hit “Easy Love” for the band Aerial.

GARY O’

“To say that music has been a huge part of my life, would be an understatement.” That’s what Canadian singer/songwriter GARY O’ would tell you. Son of a famous bandleader, he was raised on a strict diet of Ray Charles and The Beatles and the great melodies that came from that music. Great influences for a future songwriter. Before venturing out on his solo career, GARY was an accomplished session guitarist and toured North America with the very first Beatle clone band (Liverpool), which became the Broadway hit “Beatlemania”. First attempt at writing a song resulted in the radio hit “Easy Love” for the band Aerial.

Becoming a solo artist, he landed international record deals with both Capitol Records (L.A.) and RCA Victor (N.Y.). Those two albums resulted in several hit singles for himself and many of those tunes were cut by other artists. GARY O’ is probably most known for the hit ”Shades of 45” which went top 20 in Billboard Magazine. Dick Clark was quoted as saying he thought it was one of the most interesting tracks he’d heard since Sgt.Pepper. Other hits from those albums included “Get It While You Can”, “All the Young Heroes”, “I Believe in You” and “Call of the Wild”. He also had Top 20 hits with “ .38 Special” (Back Where You Belong) as well as covers with several other major artists.

GARY O’ is still active in the Canadian music industry today.

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GAVIN SLATE

Toronto — Juno Award Winning Singer/Songwriter - Keep it Simple (James Barker Band)

Gavin Slate is a Juno Award winning songwriter from Toronto, ON and currently living in Nashville, TN. He has co-written 11 Gold Certified singles, 17 Top 10s and two #1 songs for artists including The James Barker Band, The Reklaws, Jade Eagleson, Tim Hicks, Kira Isabella, Cold Creek County, Sons of Daughters etc. In addition to this, he has also had songs placed as an artist himself in TV shows including NBC's Rookie Blue, ABC's Saving Hope and most recently had his song featured in the holiday campaign for Stella Artois.

GAVIN SLATE

Gavin Slate is a Juno Award winning songwriter from Toronto, ON and currently living in Nashville, TN. He has co-written 11 Gold Certified singles, 17 Top 10s and two #1 songs for artists including The James Barker Band, The Reklaws, Jade Eagleson, Tim Hicks, Kira Isabella, Cold Creek County, Sons of Daughters etc. In addition to this, he has also had songs placed as an artist himself in TV shows including NBC's Rookie Blue, ABC's Saving Hope and most recently had his song featured in the holiday campaign for Stella Artois.

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JAMIE O’NEAL

Nashville — Award Winning Hit Singer-Songwriter - There is No Arizona and When I Think About Angels

Since the release of her debut album Jamie O'Neal has been impacting country music with her soulful voice and the immense amount of passion behind every word she sings. O’Neal became a household name with her single, “There Is No Arizona,” which set her path to stardom on fire with multiple No. 1 hits and 2 top 5 records as well as many award accolades. “From a young age, I had a bird’s eye view as entertainers like Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson and Crystal Gayle performed,” she says. “I watched from the side of the stage at the way they connected with a crowd, and that’s what made me want to be a performer."

JAMIE O’NEAL

Since the release of her debut album Jamie O'Neal has been impacting country music with her soulful voice and the immense amount of passion behind every word she sings. O’Neal became a household name with her single, “There Is No Arizona,” which set her path to stardom on fire with multiple No. 1 hits and 2 top 5 records as well as many award accolades. “From a young age, I had a bird’s eye view as entertainers like Johnny Cash, Dolly Parton, Willie Nelson and Crystal Gayle performed,” she says. “I watched from the side of the stage at the way they connected with a crowd, and that’s what made me want to be a performer."

O’Neal made a beeline for Music City in her 20’s and signed with EMI Publishing. Her first cut was for LeAnn Rimes “Surrender” then “How Far” for Martina McBride,

“Pink Guitar” Reba, Grammy winning “More Than What I Wanted” for CeCe Winans, “Damsel in Distress” for Idina Menzel and most recently produced and Co-write American Idol Winner Laine Hardy’s first ep.

After crossing paths with Keith Stegall (Alan Jackson, Clay Walker), the famed producer helped the young rising singer/songwriter land her first record deal with Mercury Nashville, which resulted with the release of her critically acclaimed and platinum selling album Shiver.

O’Neal went on to earn the title of the ACM's Top New Female Vocalist award and was named the Top New Country Artist by Billboard. Two of her four Grammy nominations came as a songwriter, for Best Country Song for “There Is No Arizona” and its chart-topping follow-up, “When I Think About Angels.”

In addition to headlining her own shows, O’Neal has toured with Reba McEntire, Kenny Chesney, Martina McBride, Alan Jackson and more. She has also landed songs on the soundtracks of Bridget Jones’ Diary and When We Were Soldiers singing a duet with Michael McDonald as well as having Idina Menzel record a song she wrote for the ABC smash Desperate Housewives.

It is a measure of the respect she has earned that after CelineDion was unable to sing “All By Myself” for Bridget Jones, the producers searched country music for its most powerful vocalist and chose O’Neal. The track is again featured in this year's Bridget Jones' Baby. When Carrie Underwood won American Idol, a search for a top-flight duet partner led once again to O’Neal and Carrie singing "Does He Love You" together for CMT Greatest Duets.

O’Neal has appeared on numerous national television programs, including multiple appearances on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Late Show with David Letterman, Entertainment Tonight, Access Hollywood and many others. Corporate events include Mary Kay, National Corn-growers Association, Southeastern Freightlines and more. National jingles written and recorded include Kodak, Ford, McDonald’s, Chevrolet and Kraft. Jamie’s new album “Now and Then” is slated for release with BFE/Audium label in June of 2020.

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LIZ RODRIGUES

Toronto — Singer/Songwriter - Courage (Celine Dion) and Won't Back Down (Eminem)

Chart-topping Canadian songwriter Liz Rodrigues, who has six songs on Celine Dion’s new album, Courage, has also written multiple songs for Eminem and countless other popular music artists. The versatile topliner takes a more personal approach for relationship and emotional based adult-contemporary pop lyrics, but looks outside for the storytelling style required in most hip hop. A singer long before she became a writer, Liz is also the voice on the demos.

LIZ RODRIGUES

Toronto - Singer/Songwriter - Courage (Celine Dion) and Won't Back Down (Eminem)

Chart-topping Canadian songwriter Liz Rodrigues, who has six songs on Celine Dion’s new album, Courage, has also written multiple songs for Eminem and countless other popular music artists. The versatile topliner takes a more personal approach for relationship and emotional based adult-contemporary pop lyrics, but looks outside for the storytelling style required in most hip hop. A singer long before she became a writer, Liz is also the voice on the demos.

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WYNN VARBLE

Nashville — 2019 Nashville Songwriters Association - Songwriter of the Year, Waitin' on a Woman (Brad Paisley) and A Little More Country Than That (Easton Corbin)

Wynn came to love country music at a very young age. He discovered his father’s collection of classic country albums. He even traded his big brother’s “Grand Funk Railroad” for a copy of Jimmy Dean’s “Big Bad John”. He still has a scar to prove it. Around the age of 14 a neighbor named Ned Smith showed him a few chords on an old guitar. As soon as Wynn learned a few chords, he began to write his own songs. Wynn says Willie Nelson taught him the rest from the “Red Headed Stranger” album.

WYNN VARBLE

Wynn came to love country music at a very young age. He discovered his father’s collection of classic country albums. He even traded his big brother’s “Grand Funk Railroad” for a copy of Jimmy Dean’s “Big Bad John”. He still has a scar to prove it. Around the age of 14 a neighbor named Ned Smith showed him a few chords on an old guitar. As soon as Wynn learned a few chords, he began to write his own songs. Wynn says Willie Nelson taught him the rest from the “Red Headed Stranger” album.

After many years of playing in honkytonks, bars and feed store parking lots; he decided to make the move to Nashville. His first radio single was “Fit To Be Tied Down” by Sammy Kershaw. Since then he has had dozens of hits including three number ones…all three were nominated as Song Of The Year by either CMA or ACM and sometimes both. Those songs are: “Have You Forgotten” by Darryl Worley, “Waiting On A Woman” by Brad Paisley, and “I’m A Little More Country Than That” recorded by Easton Corbin.

Wynn received Nashville Songwriters Association’s Songwriter of the Year Award in 2009.

Wynn has three songs on the new Garth Brooks CD “Man Against Machine”, including the current hit single, “Mom”.

Wynn made his Grand Ole Opry debut in 2011. He has appeared on reality shows and currently has a weekly spot on the Joey and Rory Show on RFD TV.

Wynn still writes songs everyday and tours extensively. His latest CD “Freak Show” has just been released. It is available on ITunes, Amazon, and CD Baby.

Wynn is currently with BMG Music Publishing.

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BOB DiPIERO

Nashville — Hall Of Fame Inductee - Blue Clear Sky (George Strait) and Southern Voice (Tim McGraw)

Since his first #1 in 1983, Hall of Fame Songwriter Bob DiPiero has been responsible for an uninterrupted string of country music hits. One of Nashville’s most prolific and consistent songwriters, Bob possesses a humble drive to keep learning and stay relevant. He has had over 1,000 songs recorded by other artists, countless hit singles, and an astounding 15 #1 hits. His songs have been featured in TV shows, commercials and movies. Among his countless awards are 50 BMI Million-Air honors, multiple Songwriter of the Year awards and 2 consecutive Triple Play awards for 3 #1 songs within a 12-month period.

BOB DiPIERO

Since his first #1 in 1983, Hall of Fame Songwriter Bob DiPiero has been responsible for an uninterrupted string of country music hits. One of Nashville’s most prolific and consistent songwriters, Bob possesses a humble drive to keep learning and stay relevant. He has had over 1,000 songs recorded by other artists, countless hit singles, and an astounding 15 #1 hits. His songs have been featured in TV shows, commercials and movies. Among his countless awards are 50 BMI Million-Air honors, multiple Songwriter of the Year awards and 2 consecutive Triple Play awards for 3 #1 songs within a 12-month period. In 2007, Bob was inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and Nashville’s Walk of Fame. In 2014, the Country Music Hall of Fame honored Bob with their prestigious “Poets and Prophets Series: Salute to Legendary Songwriter Bob DiPiero” and the Country Music Association also presented Bob with the CMA Chairman’s Award. On November 7, 2017 Bob DiPiero received yet another incredible honor when BMI presented him with their prestigious Icon Award celebrating his outstanding career achievement and honoring his unique and indelible influence on generations of music makers. This remarkable accolade leaves no question that Bob DiPiero’s career has truly been iconic.

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JIMMY YEARY

Nashville — CMA and ACM “Song of the Year” Winner, I Drive Your Truck (Lee Brice)

Jimmy Yeary has been writing songs in nashville for 25 years. After a short period in 2001 with Atlantic records as an artist, jimmy decided to focus all of his attention on songwriting. Jimmy has quickly become one of Nashville's most sought after songwriters, with 8 top tens, 7 of which have reached #1.

JIMMY YEARY

Jimmy Yeary has been writing songs in nashville for 25 years. After a short period in 2001 with Atlantic records as an artist, jimmy decided to focus all of his attention on songwriting. Jimmy has quickly become one of Nashville's most sought after songwriters, with 8 top tens, 7 of which have reached #1.

Some of his hits include, Anywhere With You, by Jake Owen. Everything’s Gonna Be Alright, by Kenny Chesney and David Lee Murphy. He also was a writer on the 2013 CMA and ACM song of the year, I Drive Your Truck. Jimmy is currently enjoying the success of Tim McGraw’s most recent number 1, I Called Mama. Jimmy is married to Sonya Isaacs Yeary, of the award winning gospel group, The Isaacs. They live in Hendersonville, TN with their 3 kids.

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PAUL McGUIRE (Host)

Toronto — Award Winning Broadcaster - The Paul McGuire Show

A pop-culture junkie, Paul McGuire spent his childhood devouring movies, TV, comic books and music. Inevitably, he chased a career in the entertainment industry. A few commercials gigs and small TV roles paved the way for a hosting job on a children’s game show that aired on “Canada’s Nickelodeon,” YTV. Paul moved on from YTV to work at Canada’s largest network, CTV, as host and producer of Canada’s first entertainment magazine show, ENow.

PAUL McGUIRE

A pop-culture junkie, Paul McGuire spent his childhood devouring movies, TV, comic books and music. Inevitably, he chased a career in the entertainment industry. A few commercials gigs and small TV roles paved the way for a hosting job on a children’s game show that aired on “Canada’s Nickelodeon,” YTV. Paul moved on from YTV to work at Canada’s largest network, CTV, as host and producer of Canada’s first entertainment magazine show, ENow.

In 2005, he joined CMT Canada where he worked for 12 years hosting the network’s weekly two-hour flagship music show, The Chevy Top 20 Countdown. He also hosted CMT’s original interview series, One 2 One, where he interviewed the hottest names in country music, including Miranda Lambert, Florida Georgia Line, Taylor Swift, Luke Bryan, Dolly Parton, Lady Antebellum, Reba, Carrie Underwood, Shania Twain, Keith Urban, Dierks Bentley, Darius Rucker, Brooks & Dunn, Rascal Flatts and Jason Aldean.

In addition, Paul became a co-host for ET Canada, a post that continues to this day. Paul has traveled across North America and Europe for ET Canada reporting on music, television and film and is regularly seen anchoring the show alongside Cheryl Hickey and the other studio hosts.

In 2017, Paul was invited to create original content for the YouTube channel owned by ole Media Management, one of the largest independent music publishers in the world with offices in London, New York, Los Angeles, Nashville and Toronto. In conjunction, Paul launched Paul McGuire’s Country Countdown that can be heard weekly on 21 Stingray radio stations across Canada.

Currently Paul hosts a series called Always A Leaf on Leafs Nation Network. The show features long-form interviews with some of the greatest players that have ever donned the legendary Maple Leafs uniform, including Doug Gilmour, Curtis Joseph, Wendel Clark and Paul Henderson.

Paul was born in Edinburgh, Scotland, and grew up in a suburb of Toronto. Today, Paul lives in the city with his wife and two young boys. He continues to host and emcee live events and awards shows across the country.

He also owns a drum kit.

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CASEY CLARKE (Host)

Kelowna, BC — Multi Award Winner and Host of The Casey Clarke Show

Casey Clarke started his career in 1989 in Westlock AB working on 1370 CFOK from there a stop in Whistler/Squamish at Mountain FM then over to Vancouver to work for The Satellite Network's "Country Coast to Coast " channel.

CASEY CLARKE

Casey Clarke started his career in 1989 in Westlock AB working on 1370 CFOK from there a stop in Whistler/Squamish at Mountain FM then over to Vancouver to work for The Satellite Network's "Country Coast to Coast " channel.

Casey made the leap to television by joining CMT (Country Music Television) in 1997 as their Music Director then shortly after became a host on the network. Casey spent the next 16 years at CMT in various roles including Director of Programming and Production to hosting various programs and specials one of which was as the long-standing host of "The Chevy Top 20".

Casey launched Canada's longest running national daily syndicated country program "the Casey Clarke show" in 2008 followed two years later by the weekly "Casey Clarke Country Countdown, both shows continue today.

Multi CMA, CCMA and BCCMA winner Casey with his wife Suzanne and daughters Maggie and Macey call Kelowna, BC home.

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VALERIA TAIT (Guest Host)

Valeria Tait is a long time resident of the Okanagan and, as the former General Manager and winemaker at Bench 1775, a founding sponsor of 97 South Song Sessions. Tait has been a strong supporter of the performing arts, hosting numerous live events combining music and wine culinary experiences. Tait has also been active in the community as a board member of the Penticton Art Gallery.

VALERIA TAIT

Valeria Tait is a long time resident of the Okanagan and, as the former General Manager and winemaker at Bench 1775, a founding sponsor of 97 South Song Sessions. Tait has been a strong supporter of the performing arts, hosting numerous live events combining music and wine culinary experiences. Tait has also been active in the community as a board member of the Penticton Art Gallery. When the producers of the 2021 festival were considering who might fill the 2nd host spot, Val’s name came up instantly. “Val is an energetic, enthusiastic music lover and a natural with a crowd. Her support of this event has been beyond incredible from day one.” said Robin Ott, President of 97 South Holdings Inc. “Val is the perfect fit for the Guest Host role and we couldn’t be happier that she accepted the challenge.” This year’s festival is Val’s first live music event hosting gig.

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