Trish Cassling
Writer/Photographer/Editor Toronto Music Blogger

Boots & Hearts 2024: Day-to-Day Lineup and Don’t Miss Artists

Boots & Hearts is coming, baby!

This August, from Thursday to Sunday, the 8th to the 11th, the annual music fest at Burls Creek is coming. If you know Boots & Hearts, you know it’s a good time coming. If you don’t know Boots & Hearts, we’re here for ya.

This year, across the four days of action, the festival has announced 33 artists + the Emerging Artist Showcase – and that’s a lot of music!

It’s going to be impossible for you to catch every set. To be at two stages at the same time or not eat or have a seat for a minute or two in the sunshine. But, you’re going to want to try. You’re not going to want to miss the mix of country and rock that’s coming in 2024. You’re not going to want to miss the big names and the up-and-comers. You’re not going to want to miss some of your favourite Canadians.

And speaking of favourite Canadians… you’re not going to want to miss our Don’t Miss Artists at Boots & Hearts 2024.

Check out the day-to-day lineup, Thursday to Sunday, and see who we’ve pegged as the artists we don’t want you to miss out on each day. They’re all great. We promise.

Stay tuned for more about B&H 2024 as we get closer to the summer festival season.

Boots & Hearts 2024 Day-to-Day Lineup

Thursday, August 8, 2024

Midland
★ Lonestar
★ Shantaia
★ The Emerging Artist Showcase

Don’t Miss: The Emerging Artist Showcase. You never know who’s going to be the next James Barker Band or The Reklaws! Listen, cheer, sing, dance, and see what happens.

The Reklaws - Friends Don't Let Friends Tour Alone at Toronto's Budweiser Stage shot by Trish Cassling for thereviewsarein.com

Friday, August 9, 2024

Cody Johnson
★ Brothers Osborne
★ Megan Moroney
★ Chayce Beckham
★ Jess Moskaluke
★ Redferrin
★ Nate Haller
★ Kasley Kulyk
★ Buck Twenty
★ Taylor-Rae

Don’t Miss: Jess Moskaluke. With a catalogue full of songs that you’ve known for years, Jess Moskaluke is going to tear up her time on the Boots & Hearts stage. We can promise you that. Don’t forget to pack your cheap wine and cigarettes.

Jess Moskaluke at the CCMA Awards 2018

Saturday, August 10, 2024

Thomas Rhett
★ Matchbox Twenty
★ NEEDTOBREATHE
★ Jackson Dean
★ Hunter Brothers
★ Bryan Martin
★ Lauren Watkins
★ Alee
★ Texas King
★ Elyse Saunders

Don’t Miss: Alee. We’ve been all-in on this Canadian singer/songwriter for a long time, and if you haven’t been – now is a great time to get onboard. Enjoy the ride!

Bonus: If you’re ready for rock at Boots, get to the stage for Texas King who has put on some really fun shows when we’re been in attendance and always get our attention.

Sunday, August 11, 2024

Jason Aldean
★ Carly Pearce
★ Nate Smith
★ Emerson Drive
★ Madeline Merlo
★ Alana Springsteen
★ Alexandra Kay
★ Dillion James
★ Dayna Reid
★ Brian John Harwood

Don’t Miss: Madeline Merlo. Her name is higher on the marquee now – and for good reason. Madeline Merlo has been working hard for nearly a decade (we first met her in December 2015) and has earned every single thing that she’s got. Get to the stage, bring some Honey Jack, and sing along.

Madeline Merlo at Toronto's Enercare Centre - Tim Hicks Get Loud Tour shot by Trish Cassling

March 7, 2024 No Comments

JJ Wilde Boots & Hearts 2023 Preview Playlist

Three years back, we went all-in on JJ Wilde when she released her breakthrough album, Ruthless, and now, music festival fans at Boots & Hearts are going to get their chance to see the Ontario rocker in action.

JJ Wilde hits the stage on Friday, August 11, 2023, when the country festival gets a little rock & roll. Before Nickelback headlines the main stage, JJ Wilde will offer direct support for Big Wreck on the Front Porch Stage, and y’all aren’t gonna wanna miss it!

From that first album drop, Wilde has been blowing people’s hair back, setting records, selling tickets, winning awards, and making new fans at every step along the way.

We’ve seen her in action, opening for The Glorious Sons, and headlining the CNE in Toronto. We’ve seen her engage the crowd, play her hits, leave it all on the stage, and make us want more.

JJ Wilde - History - Toronto - December 8

If we had to bet on it, we’d say she’s going to do the same thing at Burl’s Creek this summer.

To get you primed and prepared, we’ve gone through the album, EPs, and singles to put together a 21-track, 1+ hour playlist of JJ Wilde songs for you to dive into. We recommend hitting play and shuffle on the Spotify playlist in this post – or open it with THIS LINK.

If you’re brand new to JJ Wilde, hit play on these 3 videos first and get a taste.

And if you’re looking for Boots & Hearts 2023 ticket and info – CLICK HERE to visit the website and figure it all out.

JJ Wilde: The Rush

JJ Wilde: Mercy

JJ Wilde: Best Boy

JJ Wilde Boots & Hearts 2023 Preview Playlist

JJ Wilde - History - Toronto - December 8

June 24, 2023 No Comments

2022 Calgary Stampede Preview Playlist: Lindsay Ell

When Lindsay Ell hits the Nashville North stage at the 2022 Calgary Stampede, she’ll be armed with her electric guitar, her songs, her stories, her strength, her message, and her heart on her sleeve. As always.

The Canadian country music star will shred. She’ll sing. She’ll shimmy. And she’ll entertain the hell out of the Cowtown crowd. It’s going to be fantastic.

We’ve been watching, listening, and covering Lindsay for years. We’ve had the opportunity to sit down with her in person and over Zoom. We’ve watched her on big stages at festivals and indoor clubs in Toronto. We’ve all seen her on TV in Canada and the US, and by the way (hey, by the way), she’s still on the rise.

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We’ve never been to a Lindsay Ell concert and not been entertained. We’ve never left one of her shows without that buzz that gets into your bones from great live music. Calgary, be ready for that.

And maybe be ready for a little extra guitar fun too…

Lindsay Ell is a star. She’s a seasoned entertainer. And when she leaves the Nashville North stage at the 2022 Calgary Stampede, she’ll leave everything she’s got in her right there.

Get yourself set with this Lindsay Ell preview playlist that includes 5 songs we love and want you to hear AND the Top 5 songs from Ell’s Spotify Popular list.

Listen to all of them, sing along, dance, smile, and if you’re in Calgary, don’t miss this show!

Lindsay Ell Preview Playlist

All Alright

Slow Dancing in a Burning Room

Waiting on the World to Change

By The Way

Shut Me Up

Lindsay Ell Top 5

5. Right On Time

“This song goes out to every single woman fighting for their rights right now.”

4. Waiting On You

3. i don’t lovE you

2. Criminal

1. wAnt Me Back

July 11, 2022 No Comments

2022 Calgary Stampede Preview: The Reklaws Top 5

Our pals The Reklaws are on their way to Nashville North at the 2022 Calgary Stampede – and if you’re in the area and looking for a Wednesday night party, they’re sure as heck going to give one to you!

Jenna and Stuart have been as on fire as it gets in their country music career, and this summer isn’t going to cool down for them. With the release of their latest single, Hay Is For Horses, the sibling duo from smalltown Ontario, are right back at it. And we’re here for it.

We’ve had the great opportunity to watch The Reklaws on stages big and small. We’ve watched them climb the charts, reach for bigger and brighter stars, and hold onto their roots along the way. It’s been a pleasure.

Note: If you are headed to the 2022 Calgary Stampede, please be smart, safe and kind. The things we love are coming back and life is feeling normal again, let’s keep it up. Thank you.

So Calgary, if you’re ready for a show, we highly recommend Nashville North on Wednesday, July 13 as Sacha opens for The Reklaws.

And, to get you a little more ready – we’ve got the TOP 5 songs from The Reklaws* based on combined Spotify and YouTube plays! Check out a few photos, and then give them a listen!

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*The Reklaws only, no duets, let’s keep it to the Walker kids for now!

The Reklaws Top 5!

5. Feels Like That

4. Where I’m From

3. Long Live The Night

2. Old Country Soul

1. I Do Too

July 6, 2022 No Comments

2022 Calgary Stampede Preview: The Beaches Top 10

We’ve been happily all-in on The Beaches since we first saw them live 5 and a half years ago. They are the GRL BAND from Toronto that has made their way all over Canada, into the US, played big stages, won over new fans on their way – and now they’re ready for some new hats in Calgary.

The Beaches hit the Coca-Cola Stage with July Talk on Tuesday, July 12 and will be loud, fun, and ready for a party.

To get you ready for the show, we’ve pulled the 10* tracks from The Beaches’ Popular list on Spotify and have a little pre-game preview for you right here.

Note: If you are headed to the 2022 Calgary Stampede, please be smart, safe and kind. The things we love are coming back and life is feeling normal again, let’s keep it up. Thank you.

Hit play on any or all of the songs, sing along, get amped up. And be ready for some fun at the 2022 Calgary Stampede.

*I’ve picked my own entry at #10 because Let’s Go doubled up at 9 and 10 on the list!

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The Beaches Top 10!

10. Editor’s Choice: Snake Tongue

9. Let’s Go / Let’s Go (explicit)

8. Blow Up

7. Desdemona

6. Highway 6

5. Fascination

4. Money

3. Give It Up

2. Want What You Got

1. T-Shirt

July 5, 2022 No Comments

2022 Calgary Stampede – Stampede Summer Stage Lineup & Schedule!

2022’s Calgary Stampede is almost ready to take over!

We love everything about the Stampede, but the music is our highlight! This year there are over 100 acts across 3 stages. Check out the Stampede music page for more details.

Since it’s National Country Music Day, we’re going to start with some amazing country acts.

Blake Shelton will be headlining the first concert in the 2022 Virgin Plus Stampede Concert at the Saddle Dome on Saturday, July 16, 2022. With special guest Gord Bamford.

Blake Shelton Stampede 2022

Tickets start at $59.99 and include admission to the Calgary Stampede grounds on the day of the show.

NASHVILLE NORTH HEADLINERS

NASHVILLE NORTH SUPPORTING ACTS

 

 

COCA-COLA STAGE HEADLINERS

COCA-COLA STAGE SUPPORTING ACTS

 

VIRGIN PLUS STAGE HEADLINERS

VIRGIN PLUS STAGE SUPPORTING ACTS

For complete set times, check out the schedule here!

There’s so much to do at the Calgary Stampede. Make sure you check out all the fun and exciting things.

LOTTERIES

Here’s the link to ticket information.

Did we miss anything? Oh yes! In addition to playing with his band, Yellowstone’s Kevin Costner will be the 2022 parade marshal!

Stay tuned; we’ll be publishing preview posts before the Stampede, followed by the coverage you’re used to from thereviewsarein!

 

July 4, 2022 No Comments

Hillside Festival 2022 Lineup Announcement

Hillside Festival is back with a wonderful lineup!

First, let me say that the list is very long. It’s also peppered with some of our absolute favourites. Additionally, there are tons of bands that we’ve never had the privilege of covering. That’s exciting!

Here we go, in alphabetical order, Adrian Raso, Allison Lupton Band, Allison Russell, Anyway Gang*(in case you don’t know – this is a Canadian supergroup featuring Sam Roberts of Sam Roberts Band, Chris Murphy of Sloan, Menno Versteeg of Hollerado, and Dave Monks of Tokyo Police Club), Aoife O’Donovan, Bahamas, Bedouine, The Blue and Gold, Boy Golden, Braden Etienne, Brianna Doyle, Cadence Weapon*, Cat Clyde, Christina Hutt, cleopatrick, DakhaBrakha*, Dan Mangan*, Danny Michel, DJ Shub presents War Club Live, Donovan Woods, Electric Vinyl Orchestra, Eivør*, Emily Gilbart, Gangstagrass*, Guelph Comedy Festival, George Elliot Clarke, Habibi, Hayley Kellett, Halley McKeown, The Human Rights, Hyd*, I, The Mountain, Ifriqiyya Electrique, Jon Brooks, Julian Taylor, Katelyn Bearinger, King Hanah*, Kinne Starr*, Kobo Town, Kyshona, Laurel Tubman and Friends, Leela Gilday, Lizzie No*, Luni Li, Mames Babegenush, Melissa Brizuela, Michael Barclay, Michelle Monroe, Missy Bauman, Myriam Gendron, Nathan Lawr, Nicolette & The Nobodies, NOBRO, OMBIIGIZI, Paula Sofia, Pink Mountaintops, Le Ren*, Royal Canoe, Sam Polley and The Old Tomorrows, Sauna, Shane Koyczan with The Short Story Long, Shannon Gault, Spencer Burton, Stephen Lewis & The Big Band of Fun, Tami Neilson*, Tania Joy, TEKE::TEKE, Texas King, Vivalda Ndula, Wesli.

The music is all over the map genre-wise, which gives everyone a chance to experience artists and bands they might not usually see. Artists in the list above with an asterisk beside their names will also have workshop sessions on the same day; other bands/artists may have workshop sessions on a different day than their main set.

Check out the Hillside Festival’s Ticket page to see a sneak peek at the schedule.

Things You Need to Know

This event is rain or shine. No dogs are allowed unless they’re service dogs. Alcohol and illegal substances can not be brought into the festival. You must observe all of the Park’s rules. Last but not least, Hillside Festival is not responsible for any loss, personal injury or damages to patrons or volunteers howsoever they may arise in relation to participation in the festival.

Hillside 2022 Poster with artists

Artwork by C.M. Duffy

We’re you hoping to do a little camping? Scroll to the bottom for links. Everything you need to know about camping can be found by clicking the Camping link.

Get your tickets at hillsidefestival.ca. 2022 Summer Weekend Passes are on sale now! All 2020 passes will be honoured.

Ticket Pricing Tiers

Tier 1: Jan 1 – Feb 28
$129 + HST & SC (too late you missed the boat on this tier)

Tier 2: March 1 – April 30
$139 + HST & SC

Tier 3: May 1 – June 30
$149 + HST & SC

Tier 4: July 1- 22
$159 + HST & SC

Gate
$169 + HST & SC

Important Ticket policies

  • Children 12 and under are admitted for free when accompanied by an adult
  • Single-day and Seniors’ tickets are released closer to the event
  • Tickets are non-refundable (except when an event is cancelled)
  • E-Tickets do not need to be printed; they can be scanned from a mobile device.
  • The ticket price does not include parking or camping
  • The Festival is not responsible for lost, stolen or misplaced tickets

2022 Trailer

Hillside Festival Links

Facebook // Twitter // Instagram // YouTube // TikTok // Camping // Volunteer // Store

April 22, 2022 No Comments

Start.ca Rocks The Park Announces Country Night with Headliner Dierks Bentley

Sunday, July 17th with Dierks Bentley, Ashley McBryde, The Reklaws, and Breland

London, ON loves a good country night, and this summer when Dierks Bentley hits the Harris Park stage for Start.ca Rocks the Park, fans will go wild!

Bentley is a multiple award nominee, McBryde and The Reklaws are no slouches in that area either. Breland stepped into the award nominee arena this year with 3 CMT nominations.

Tickets go on sale to the general public on Friday, April 1st at 10:00 AM EST! Tickets are $69 for general or $129 VIP ((plus taxes and fees). Get your tickets at www.rockthepark.ca.

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Start.ca Rocks The Park 2020, Saturday, July 17, 2022 Lineup

Dierks Bentley

Ashley McBryde

The Reklaws

Breland

Want to win tickets? Head on over to Start.ca Rocks the Park’s Facebook page where they’re offering up a pair of tickets.

March 28, 2022 No Comments

New Music Spotlight with Miesha and The Spanks, Crown Lands, Andrew Hyatt, and more

New Music from Miesha and The Spanks, Crown Lands, Andrew Hyatt, The Lumineers, and Allegories

As we head into the first weekend of Spring, we’ve got a brand new New Music Spotlight for you.

The genres include rock (all kinds), folk, country, and a hit of electronic pop. All of the songs are winners in our book.

Let’s do this!

Artist: Miesha and The Spanks
Hometown: Calgary, AB
Genre: punk / garage / rock
Related Artists: Shred Kelly, The Pack A.D., Nirvana
Song: Mixed Blood Girls
Notes: Something slightly different from Miesha and The Spanks, the “Mixed Blood Girls” video starts with a reading of Rain Prudhomme’s Mixed Blood Girls poem. The poem and the song are stories of not belonging, finding our way and pointing a light on this history that so many of us share.

“The first time I heard ‘Mixed Blood Girls’ I immediately started dancing around, excited that there was finally an anthem to proclaim out loud and proud,” says Indi City’s Angel Aubichon. “As a not completely white-passing girl but also not obviously Indigenous I found myself on the quest for belonging by not ever really belonging. Miesha writes about the remarks people made to her and about her as a young girl that contributed to a disconnect from her identity and belonging. I totally resonate with that. That was my life growing up in small-town Northern Saskatchewan. “Mixed Blood Girls” brought it into perspective that there are others out there who share similar stories of reclamation, healing, and pride in our own being-ness.”

Links: Web / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Spotify / Apple Music / Linktr.ee

Artist: Crown Lands
Hometown: Oshawa
Genre: Prog / Rock
Related Artists: 
Song: The Witching Hour (Electric Witch)
Notes: Universal Records has reissued the band’s 2021 record White Buffalo with the addition of a live version of “The Witching Hour” recorded at Toronto’s Revolution Recording last year. 2022 holds a wonderful list of firsts for the band, including headlining the Go North Festival in St. Joseph Island, ON, travelling to the UK for The Great Escape Festival in Brighton, UK and Omeara in London, UK. They’ll also be supporting Greta Van Fleet on their Dreams In Gold tour for the fall US tour dates, starting October 18th in North Carolina.

Check out their website for all upcoming dates.

Links: Web / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Spotify / Apple

Artist: Andrew Hyatt
Hometown: Sudbury, ON
Genre: Country
Related Artists: Dallas Smith, Shawn Austin, Jojo Mason
Song: Close to You
Notes:  This past week, Andrew Hyatt released an Offical Video for ‘Close to You’. A fun video treatment has Hyatt singing and playing in his bedroom, watching his love on the tv until he joins her. We already loved the song, but the video brings up the smile level.

If you’ve been longing for some facetime with Hyatt, you can catch him live in July at Country Thunder in Craven, SK and Big Valley Jamboree in Camrose, AB, and in August at Boots and Hearts in Oro-Medonte, ON.

Links: Web / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Spotify / Apple / Close to You

Artist: The Lumineers
Hometown: Denver, CO
Genre: Folk Rock
Related Artists: Of Monsters and Men, Young the Giant, The Avett Brothers
Song: where we are (acoustic)
Notes: As if we couldn’t love this song anymore? The acoustic version of “where we are” and the accompanying video takes things back to the basics and hits it out of the park. The earworm rating on this song is off the charts.

“Where we are (where we are)
I don’t know where we are (where we are)
But it will be okay
Where we are (where we are)
I don’t know where we are (where we are)
But it will be okay”

Links: Web / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Spotify / Apple

Artist: Allegories
Hometown: Hamilton, ON
Genre: electronic-pop
Related Artists: Aunts, Greg Hvnsen, Marian Hill
Song: Always True
Notes: The self-proclaimed experimental noise project is set to release their long-awaiting follow-up album Endless. Just ahead of the album’s April 29th release (mastered by Jeremy Greenspan of Junior Boys – via Hidden Pony), the duo shares a final single, the entrancing dance track “Always True.”

“‘Always True’ feels like the dark part at the end of the night,” the band explains. “The wrong side of 5am. A dark warehouse bouncing to ominous synth pads, and 909s. A sudden surge of energy, a second wind, one more dance while the night wears off.” – Allegories

Adam Bentley and Jordan Mitchell have taken their time paring down a list of 35 song ideas to nine tracks.  If you love “Always True“, you owe it to yourself to check out the rest of the album.

Links: Bandcamp / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram / Apple Music / Spotify / Allegories / More Band Info

March 25, 2022 No Comments

Go North is back for 2022 with Crown Lands as Headliners

Today Go North Festival out of St. Joseph Island, Ontario, announced its triumphant return for 2022. The festival will feature an all Canadian line-up, including headliners Juno Award-winning band Crown Lands.

Joining the power duo will be Charlotte Cornfield, The Honest Heart Collective, Goodnight Sunrise, Royal Castles, Taming Sari, local band The Uncanny Valley, and Cass FM.

“After establishing the Go North Music Festival over our first three years, pausing for 2020 and 2021 was a big letdown,” shares Go North Chair, Jody Wildman. “When things started to look better for 2022, we made the decision that we were going to continue to expand the event with an increased budget for artists and the addition of an opening night concert on Friday. We think people are going to love this year’s line-up, all the vendors, and our great Family Zone activities. It’s going to be a great weekend to spend on St. Joseph Island.” – Release

If you’re heading up from Toronto, you’ll want to get there early.

The festival kicks off on Friday, July 8th with a special opening night concert at The Centennial Grounds featuring rootsy blues singer-songwriter Jay Pollmann. If you want to up the special factor on Friday, the concert can be paired with dinner from one of the fantastic local restaurants.

You can even make it a full package deal including a taste of the Island, camping, and the show!

Food vendors will be offering traditional favourites including gluten-free and vegan options. You can also get an ice-cold locally-made craft beer and visit the Artisan Market,  showcasing local artisans and producers providing handmade local goods.

GO NORTH 2022 LINEUP

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Early bird online tickets are available now via Eventbrite – Go North Music Festival 2022. $45 for early bird Friday and Saturday included (First 100 tickets ONLY!), $60 for advance Friday and Saturday, or $45 advance for Saturday only, and $70 (Friday and Saturday) or $55 (Saturday only) at the gate (HST included). Kids 12 and under are free, and for youth, 13 to 18 tickets are $35 for both days or $15 for Saturday only.

Check the website for locations to get your tickets locally – www.gonorthmusicfestival.ca.

 GO NORTH SPONSORS

Go North 2022 Sponsors

GO NORTH LINKS

Web // Facebook // Instagram // Tickets

Go North with web and date

March 23, 2022 1 Comment

Field Trip Returns for 2022 – Lineup includes Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats, the Halluci Nation, Rheostatics, Kurt Vile, and more

Field Trip has announced plans for a 2022 return event at the city’s historic Fort York and Garrison Compound. The festival has been scaled back to a one-day event that will take place on July 9th. We’re excited it’s back!

Headlining is Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats, supported by Peach Pit, Kurt Vile and the Violators, Lucy Dacus, the Halluci Nation, Valley, Busty and the Bass, Rheostatics, the Rural Alberta Advantage, Haviah Mighty, Daisy the Great, Pierre Kwenders, Georgia Harmer, and OMBIIGIZI.

Field Trip 2022 Poster

In addition, Field Trip is bringing back its “Day Camp” for children. 2022 will feature Splash’N Boots, Recess Therapy, and Ultimutts, among other kids’ stage artists.

“This is the perfect time for Field Trip to return. At its core, Field Trip has always been about community and we need to reconnect with our communities now more than ever,” said festival co-founder and Arts & Crafts President Kieran Roy. “We can’t wait to welcome people back to Field Trip to celebrate, be together again, discover their favourite new band, see their kids hula hoop, and be reminded of all the things we love about our city and about being with others.”

$114.50 for general admission tickets, VIP passes are $194.50 and kids 12 and under are free. The presale is tomorrow at 10:00  AM Eastern Time. Need more details? Visit Field Trip’s website.

Check out the announcement video featuring Kevin Drew, Pierre Kwenders, Lana Gay, and more.

March 22, 2022 No Comments

Top 4 Female Folk Artists Of All Time

Music is often reflective of the time and places it was created. Folk music is no different, with its roots in oral tradition and storytelling. For centuries, it has been used to express human experience. For instance, Woody Guthrie, considered the first notable artist to make a huge contribution to the genre, produced works that centred on the struggle of the working class in the Dust Bowl Midwest.

In recent years, it has seen a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to the success of artists like Mumford & Sons and The Lumineers. But what about the women players who have helped shape this genre? Here are four of the most influential female folk artists of all time.

1. Kathleen Ferrier

Kathleen Ferrier was born on April 1912 in the village of Street, Lancashire, England. Her father was a bank manager, and her mother was a schoolteacher. Ferrier showed an early interest in music and started piano and violin lessons early. She later attended the Royal Academy of Music in London. In 1935, she won a singing competition, which led to her first professional engagement. She made her debut with the London Philharmonic Orchestra in 1936.

Ferrier’s career as a folk artist began in the 1940s. She became known for her interpretation of British folk songs. She also recorded several albums of Scottish and Irish folk songs. In addition to her work as a folk singer, she was one of the first classical artists to cross over into the folk genre.

As published here, Ferrier died of cancer on October 27, 1953, at 41. Her recordings continue to be released posthumously, and she’s considered one of the essential British singers of the 20th century.

woman seated with guitar a mic

2. Joan Baez

Joan Baez was born on January 09, 1941, in Staten Island, New York. Her father was a physicist who worked on the Manhattan Project while her mother was a folk singer. Baez began playing the guitar at an early age and started performing in clubs and coffeehouses in her teens. In 1959, she released her self-titled debut album, which featured traditional folk songs.

In the early 1960s, Baez became involved in the civil rights and anti-war movements. She performed at protest rallies and benefit concerts. Her music began to reflect her political beliefs. In 1964, she released her second album, Joan Baez in Concert, Pt. One, which included the song ‘We Shall Overcome.’ The album was a commercial success and helped raise awareness of the civil rights movement.

In recent years, Baez has continued to perform and record music. She has been active in environmental and human rights causes as well. In 2017, she was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by Barack Obama.

3. The Good Lovelies

The Good Lovelies are a Canadian folk trio formed in 2006. This group comprises Carol Lynne Tuynman, Kerri Ough, and Sue Passmore. The Good Lovelies began their career as folk artists, performing at small venues and festivals.

In 2009, the three released their self-titled debut album, garnering critical acclaim. They won the Juno Award for Best New Group the following year. Since then, they have released four more albums, all of which have been met with high praise.

In 2021, the Good Lovelies Christmas Tour was held, with the group performing at Massey Hall in Toronto. That was the first time the Good Lovelies headlined at Massey Hall.

The group has been featured on CBC’s The Vinyl Cafe and NPR’s Tiny Desk Concerts and are currently working on their sixth studio album, which will be released this year.

The Good Lovelies at Massey Hall

4. Nanci Griffith

Music is good for your health, and Nanci Griffith is one American singer-songwriter who has continued to deliver the kind of music that soothes you. She was born on July 06, 1953, in Seguin, Texas. Griffith began playing the guitar at the age of eight. She formed a folk band called The Western Union Band in high school.

Griffith released her debut album, A Long Way Home, in 1978. The album was not commercially successful, but it won critical acclaim. In 1984, she released her second album, Last of the True Believers. This album featured the song ‘From a Distance,’ which Bette Midler would later popularize.

Griffith has released thirteen studio albums throughout her career. In 2002, she scooped a Grammy Award for Best Contemporary Folk Album for her album, Winter Marquee. She continues to tour and perform throughout the United States. She’s working on a new album, which is set to be released later this year.

Final Word

Folk music has been around for many years, and it remains popular today because of artists like The Good Lovelies. So, if you want to try exploring a different genre, you should check out the works of these top female folk artists.

March 21, 2022 No Comments

Wasting Time Releasing Once More Without Feeling

This past week I’ve been listening to the upcoming sophomore album, “Once More Without Feeling” from Toronto punk-pop quartet Wasting Time, and I’ve been loving it.

The record is highly reminiscent of 80s pop-punk, something I love, but it’s also super fresh and fun. The tracks run a mix of tempos and feelings, and I’m here for all of it.

Once More Without Feeling is out March 25th and will be self-released and distributed worldwide by Paper + Plastick. Also out on the 25th, a new video for the track “Game Night.” Links are at the bottom of the post.

Once More Without Feeling is the sophomore album, featuring 10 songs that will take the listener on a magic carpet ride of uptempo romps, melodic choruses, heartfelt lyrics and a few slower excursions. – Release

If you’re a fan of MxPx, Lagwagon, or Alkaline Trio, you’re going to love this band!

Thanks to the band for answering our burning questions.

Q&A with Wasting Time

Can I get your names and who plays what? 

Vlad sings and plays guitar, Mike plays bass, Mark plays lead guitar and Nick plays drums.

Tell me about your writing process.

Vlad usually writes the lyrics, melodies and chords of a new song and presents it to the rest of the band. We eventually spend time hashing it out during practices until we’re all happy campers.

Have you worked with Steve Rizun at Drive Studios before? 

We had not worked with Steve before we started recording “Once More Without Feeling“. We first were in contact with him 2 years ago through a mutual friend and have enjoyed working with him ever since.

Talk to me about putting the songs in order?

Before recording started, we selected our 10 best songs that we had fleshed out in early 2020. When our sessions finished, we simply wanted to make our album as cohesive as possible with just the right amount of twists, turns and thrills like a roller coaster.

What’s the one thing you’re most excited about with the release of “Once More With Feeling”?

A few delays were faced before releasing it due to the pandemic, so it just feels cathartic to have the whole piece ready for public consumption as the beginning of the end of it hopefully approaches.

Wasting Time Group shot

Who came up with the concept for the Game Night video?

The vision for our video came from the mind of Vlad, who was inspired by commercials for the board game, “Dream Phone” that set the template for the all-girl slumber party scenes. We decided to thrash around for the band performance parts in an array of different outfits for kicks.

Do you have a favourite song from the album?

It’s hard to choose favourites, but “My Limited French” currently holds a special place in our hearts as it was the first song we released and recorded for the album. It is also our most popular song at the moment. It doesn’t hurt that we’re not tired of performing it either!

Is 2022’s Wasting Time the original lineup? 

Vlad started the band back in the early 2000s with 3 previous members. That lineup went on a hiatus a couple of years after and the band didn’t reactivate until 2017. Mike joined just as the project started up again, Mark jumped on board in 2020 and Nick has just joined as of a few months ago.

Who’s responsible for the album artwork? 

A fine artist named Michael J Larson brings Vlad’s rough sketches to life.

In 50 words or so, can you tell everyone what to expect from your music and your live show?

Four whacky guys from Toronto trying to sweat their asses off on stage while playing melodic punk rock. We don’t take ourselves too seriously in between songs, which usually results in jokes at our own expense.

What’s it like to have live dates on the calendar?

It’s great! For some of us, playing live is the best part of being in a band. It feels like it’s been a long time coming since we’ve last performed in front of people.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with our readers? 

Catch us at a show soon and check out “Once More Without Feeling” on March 25th. In the meantime, watch our latest video for “Certain Days” on YouTube that was made by our talented friend, Michael Crusty.

Wasting Time – Certain Days

Upcoming Tour Dates

March 19th at The Red Dog, Peterborough, On

March 25th at Hard Luck Bar, Toronto, On (record release show with The Anti-Queens and K-Man & The 45s)

May 19th at Avant-Garde Bar, Ottawa, On

May 20th-22nd at Pouzza Fest, Montreal, Qc

If you’re looking to get your hands on a physical copy of the album, hit up one of these shows.

Wasting Time’s Links

Bandcamp // Facebook // Instagram // Twitter // Amazon Music // Apple Music // Spotify // Linktr.ee // Once More Without Feeling

March 16, 2022 No Comments

St. Patrick’s Day Toronto Events

St. Patrick’s Day is almost here. Are you Irish? Do you have a cute “Kiss Me I’m Irish” t-shirt hoping to get out?

It’s that awesome, rambunctious time of year again. A time when we all remember our Irish great-great-grandmother or a distant Irish cousin from the Emerald Isle. It’s that time when the rivers and draft beer run green. So get out and lift a proper Guinness and celebrate.

We’ve had two years of St. Patrick’s Day events, getting cancelled, going virtual and/or taking breaks. 2022 is looking a whole lot different.

We’ve put together a list of events happening around the city for you to consider.

The El Mocambo – 464 Spadina Ave

The legendary El Mocambo is throwing a St. Patrick’s Day celebration on March 17th, their first-ever St. Patrick’s Day event. The event is sponsored by The Dive ShopProper No. Twelve Irish Whiskey, Dirty Devil Vodka, and Heineken. Expect drink specials and food catered by Chef Mark McEwan, live music from Elevation, Practically Hip, and The Soul Kicks, and fun games throughout the evening. The festivities start at 4:00 PM in the Starlight Room and then they’ll take over the entire venue, expanding up into the Main Stage at 7:00 PM.

For more details and tickets to St. Patrick’s Day at The El Mocambo, please visit elmocambo.com. This is a 19+ event. Tickets are $25, plus fees ($31.66)

Dublin Calling – 250 Adelaide Street W

Dublin Calling is hosting an all-day, full building St. Patrick’s Day event on March 17th.

They’re throwing the Ultimate Irish Block Party! The all-day party gets underway at 12:00 PM. Ticket holders are guaranteed access before 6:00 PM to the 3-level experience featuring St. Paddy’s Day shenanigans at the Rock ’N’ Horse Saloon and The Porch (weather permitting) as well as Dublin Calling. Tickets are limited and available for pre-sale. Walk-up tickets will be available on-site on St. Patrick’s Day. This is a 19+ event.

The Horseshoe Tavern – 370 Queen Street W

The 44th Annual Martian Awareness Ball at The Horseshoe Tavern on March 17th.

Live music courtesy of Marcus & Mary Margaret Ohara with Rusty McCarthy & Band O’Gold plus many guest singers. It’s a tradition!

Tickets at the door for $20. Doors are at 8:30. This is a 19+ event. While you wait, you can always have a pint or two in the front bar, they open at noon.

Murphy’s Law – 1702 Queen Street E

If you’re an east end celebrator, head to Murphy’s Law. They’re serving up St. Patrick’s Day spirit and you can party the night away with festive drinks, new food items, and live entertainment. We suggest making a reservation.

Toronto St. Patrick’s Day Parade – Sunday, March 20, 2022

The parade starts at noon and lasts an hour and a half. The parade begins on the corner of St. George and Bloor St West (near St. George subway station) and heads east on Bloor Street, turns south on Yonge Street and finally turns west on Queen Street, finishing at the parade reviewing stand at Nathan Phillips Square. Pick a spot and enjoy! It’s an all-ages, free, outdoor event.

March 15, 2022 No Comments

RBC Bluesfest Reveals Full 2022 Lineup

RBC Royal Bank Ottawa Bluesfest made their 2022 lineup announcement on Tuesday morning, dropping a 91 artist lineup for the July festival.

As promised in 2020, Rage Against the Machine is included in the 2022 lineup. They’ll be headlining on July 15th. Support for the internationally acclaimed band includes Run the Jewels, Milky Chance, and more.

The multi-day, multi-stage fest runs from July 7th to 17th at Lebreton Flats.

Here is your lineup!

2022 RBC Bluesfest Lineup Poster

RBC Bluesfest 1-DAY PRESALE STARTS WED. MARCH 9 AT 10 AM!

Are you an RBC Bluesfest Insider? If you are, you’re invited to our 1-Day Presale this Wednesday, March 9th from 10:00 AM to 11:59 PM ET. No presale code is required. If you’re not, what are you waiting for? Visit the Help Centre now to sign up.

Get your tickets at our best prices. Passes will sell out quicklydon’t miss out! General on-sale begins Friday, March 11 at 10:00 AM ET.

RBC bluesfest 2022 ticket image

Do you still have questions? They’ve got a helpdesk for you. Visit the Help Centre now.

Remember, the lineup is always subject to change. The full schedule, with set times and stage locations, will be available in the spring of 2022.

 

March 8, 2022 No Comments
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