In The Country With Dave Woods

James David Carter had a successful football career growing up, but a serious injury in his senior year dashed his dreams of playing in college. After the accident, singing was initially something he did for fun, but he realized he was a natural talent and hasn't looked back. He set off a four-coach war for himself on the 2014 season of NBC's hit show The Voice after his blind audition of the Country song "Nobody Knows." He chose Blake Shelton to be his coach. Later in the season, after performing Garth Brooks' mega-hit "Two Of A Kind, Workin' On A Full House", Blake said: “You continue to just be that rock. I can always count on you to sound great - you always do great." Although he didn't win Season 7, James has won a huge following as a result of his amazing performances on the show and now thanks to his album Songs On The Radio (available at iTunes.) James will perform in Ontario at the Tillsonburg Tri-County Agricultural Society, also known as the Tillsonburg Fair, as part of the Saturday Night Conce

SMALL TOWN PISTOLS When you’re declared Group of the Year at Canada’s biggest country music awards show, that’s major validation from a community with high standards. Ontario’s Small Town Pistols won the CCMA title in 2014 after the brother and sister reunited for their 2013 self-titled debut. Now Amanda and Tyler Wilkinson — formerly of country trio The Wilkinsons — are back with the follow-up, Pistology, an album that is personal and sometimes edgy, covering everything from parenthood and family values to vices and rivals.  “Tyler and I learned the craft of songwriting through my dad, but in Small Town Pistols we are grown-up, able to say things that we couldn’t say in the Wilkinsons’ songs because our dad was there,” says Amanda. While both Tyler and Amanda are in solid marriages with babies, this sibling duo isn’t all white picket fences and PG conversation. They are quick-witted and speak their minds as people, and in their songwriting are raw and real — note the smoky western crime story “Ghosts”

Ontario Country artist Tori Hathway has just released her new CD called Dear Diary now available at iTunes. The project was produced by famed Toronto music producer Douglas Romanow. She's a singer-songwriter-entertainer who feels as at home on the stage as she does in the studio. At just 16 years old, Tori is already blazing her own trail on the Country music scene. Tune in for stories & songs from this talented Ontario Country artist.  

Don Green, president of the Country Music Association of Canada (CCMA) joins me to discuss the CCMA Nominations announced July 15, 2015. Country Music Week, which includes the CCMA Awards Show, takes place September 9 through 13th in Halifax. Ontario Country artist Brittany Brodie joins me on the show to talk about her new song "Together Never Alone". We'll also chat about her influences, songwriting and her trips to Nashville.  

Dean Brody's latest album is called Gypsy Road. It’s easily his most winning and original collection of songs, a fact confirmed by the rollicking, sun-drenched first single, ‘Upside Down.’ Fitting for a guy already possessed of a boatload of CCMA and JUNO Awards. “’Upside Down’ as well as the song ‘Monterey’ were written on a ukulele,” Dean explains, adding that the tenderhearted but scorching ‘Love Would Be Enough’ was sketched out on a banjo instead of his usual guitar. “There was a point in my career where it seemed like I had invested what might have been wasted time chasing a dream,” Dean offers with trademark candour. “I saw friends and others my age living the responsible suburban life, 2 cars, a mortgage, retirement savings and vacations days stacking up. And I was spending every dollar on a long shot in a country not my own. I had a small family and at points felt completely irresponsible as a father and husband. Now, we have a home on the ocean. Sometimes I walk the land and sit down by the water an

In the few short years they have been together, The Washboard Union have defied classification and have become one of the most exciting and talked about new bands on the Canadian Country music scene. They’ve being nominated for Roots Artists of the Year by the British Columbia Country Music Association, have signed on with the country music power house management team at Sakamoto Entertainment and inked a recording deal Warner Music Canada/Slaight Music. The Washboard Union is made up of 6 members based out of Vancouver, British Columbia that are led by principles Aaron Grain, Chris Duncombe and David Roberts. The three share a very similar unconscious soundtrack and unbridled love for the art of songwriting and storytelling.  The Washboard Union is an authentic blend of where country and bluegrass have come and where they are headed next. It is for that reason that the band has earned so many fans along the way. Serving notice that they are not about to conform to convention, the band’s independently relea

Toronto's Dayna Shereck releases her debut EP called Suitcase Full Of Dreams on June 23rd. The project was produced by Larry Beaird of Beaird Music Studios in Nashville. She is also releasing a music video for the song "Goodbye Doesn't Say It All". “Life is messy, and I’m not afraid to write about it,” says Dayna. “There is no such thing as playing it safe in music. I want to say what people are really feeling, and that comes down to being willing to be vulnerable.” Dayna describes herself as “a late bloomer” in music and more of a writer than a vocalist. In the four short years Dayna has been writing, she has made numerous trips to Nashville and developed a strong relationship with Dan Hodges Publishing which has led to writing opportunities with more established writers. She has been placed on NSAI’s “Ones to Watch” list, and has been a finalist and semi-finalist in the International Songwriting Competition for 2012, 2013 and 2014. She has had her songs recorded by several independent artists, including

Heather Ballentine is a charming, talented, and down-to-earth Southern belle. She is also an entrepreneur, singer/songwriter, pin-up model, and actress. Her life long pursuit of excellence began in Arkansas where she was born. She grew up with passion for performing, and always knew what she was meant to do. Her mother was named after Marilyn Monroe, which sparked Heather’s interest in pin up fashion, culture and lifestyle. Her father, a musician with a fondness for retro music, encouraged her to listen to artists such as Elvis, Patsy Cline, Johnny Cash, The Everly Brothers, Roy Orbison, Wanda Jackson, and Buddy Holly, all of whom became Heather’s musical influences. During University, Heather began modelling and was selected for the Catalina Swimwear campaign which featured her in advertisements and on the runway. However, she soon realized that her curvy figure would not be embraced by mainstream agencies. Rather than be discouraged, she embraced her own pin up style and it became her mission to send a mes

Mississauga, Ontario's ALESSIA COHLE began her life in music at a very early age when she began playing piano and singing at age four. Her passion for country music began after attending her first concert – Shania Twain’s ‘Come On Over Tour’ — at age 8. This experience ignited a spark, inspiring her to follow a career in music. Soon, Alessia began performing at local fairs and festivals, as well as on stage with her singer grandfather, and her bass-playing father. Alessia is poised to contribute to the future of country music with the release of her debut EP “Let’s Get Gone” in the spring of 2015. Alessia explains: “It’s a collection of songs that reflect my personality, allowing me to entirely expose my heart and soul. The lyrics in each song express a different message ranging from love, heartache, self- discovery and self-worth. These songs, both lyrically and melodically, have given me the opportunity to grow as a person and an artist.” The first single “Sunday Shoes” hit radio back in April, 2015.The so

CURTIS GRAMBO The latest single from Saskatchewan's Curits Grambo is Little White Dress. www.curtisgrambo.com OLIVIA ROSE The latest single from Alberta's Olivia Rose is Make Up To Mud. www.oliviarosemusic.ca MATT WILLIAMS The latest single from Ontario's Matt Williams is Spinnin' Around. www.mattwilliamsproductions.com

Sammy Kershaw's brand new album I Won't Back Down (Cleopatra Records) - released June 9, 2015 - features the cover songs Take A Letter Maria and the Tom Petty title track. The first single is called Grillin' and Chillin'. The album also features the love song Groove written by Sudbury, Ontario's Gil Grand and Texan Adam Fears.  Country fans know and love Sammy's chart-topping Country hits over the years including "Cadillac Style", "Don't Go Near The Water", "She Don't Know She's Beautiful", "Queen Of My Double Wide Trailer" - and the list goes on. In 2014, Kershaw - a Louisiana native - released "Do You Know Me? A Tribute To George Jones." The two were close friends and recorded the country hit Never Bit A Bullet Like This in 1994. "George Jones was the greatest country soul singer that ever lived, and he was my hero and my friend. I’ve known George since I was 14 years old, we were friends for over 40 years. I loved the guy, and still do. I miss him every day, and it was just an honor and a privilege (to

IN THE COUNTRY presents COUNTRY LEGENDS MOE BANDY Moe Bandy’s long string of hits include "Bandy The Rodeo Clown", "Hank Williams, You Wrote My Life", "Till I’m Too Old To Die Young", "Americana", "It's A Cheatin' Situation", "Just "I Just Started Hatin' Cheatin' Songs Today", "Rodeo Romeo", "You Haven’t Heard the Last of Me" and dozens of other chart-toppers. Whether writing, recording new songs or travelling the world performing. Moe keeps one of the busiest schedules in show business. Some of his noteworthy accomplishments are: 10 # 1 Hits, 40 Top Ten Hits, 66 Chart Hits, 5 Gold Albums, ACM Song of The Year, ACM Most Promising Male Vocalist of the Year, American Video of the year, ACM and CMA Duet of the Year.  LEROY VAN DYKE Leroy Van Dyke, of "Auctioneer" and "Walk On By" fame, star of the movie, "What Am I Bid?", is known around the world as an entertainer, recording artist, radio and television star, actor, auctioneer and veteran of the Nevada circuit. He has recorded over 500 songs, and probably h

Cadence Grace, Ann Chaplin and Stacey Zegers have had major successes in their own right as solo female artists, but never imagined that together their collective talents would catapult them to an entirely new level as Runaway Angel. Individually, they have toured Canada, the United States, Europe and Britain, opening for major acts like Dean Brody, Aaron Pritchett, One More Girl, Jessie Farrell, Aaron Lines, Terri Clark, Emerson Drive, and Doc Walker. It all began in 2009 when Stacey and Cadence met on set during the filming of CMT’s Karaoke Star, where both were finalists and became fast friends. Cadence then met Ann at CCMA Week in 2011 and they clicked instantly. In late 2013, the three friends joined forces and together Runaway Angel was born.  The girls’ first online release in January 2014 titled ‘Our Story’ was the first song they wrote together as a trio and it landed them in the Regional Finals for the 2014 CBC Searchlight contest. Summer of 2014 was filled with ground breaking experiences for th

In The Country Triple Play - May 31, 2015 Tune in to hear stories & songs - and the latest news - from these three talented Canadian Country artists. DELANEY GRANT Ontario's Delaney Grant's latest single is called "Black and Blue." ALEX RUNIONS Saskatchewan's Alex Runions' latest single is called "Passenger Seat." TANYA MARIE HARRIS Ontario's Tanya Marie Harris' latest single is called "Treat Me Like Your Girlfriend."  

Ontario Country artist CORY MARQUARDT has just released his debut album called This Man featuring the first single "21." Cory returns as part of the Outlaws & Outsiders tour this June with dates in Ontario. The tour stars Aaron Pritchett and also features new country duo King & Cash. His influences range from Eric Church to Merle Haggard - and from Rush to John Mayer. If it's a good song, it'll catch Cory's ear.  "I’m a huge fan of Eric Church and very happy with what he is doing in country music," explains Cory. "I still have some boot left to fill but I’m making my way and plan on doing that. Like me, he has a solid rock background mixed with some traditional country which is included especially in our live show." Like most Canadian Country artists, the journey of writing and recording includes trips to Nashville. "Since my first trip to Nashville in 2012, I’ve written over 100 songs with some amazing writers and have created some really cool and honest songs. Writing with people like Rob Crosb

New Brunswick's MIKE LEBLANC brought his traditional country sound to the Cadillac Lounge this spring as part of Canadian Music Week. He played songs off his album Alive And Well. Born in Moncton, New Brunswick, Mike moved at a young age - along with his family - to a small town called Collette, NB. Growing up, there was always music playing in the house or people jamming with their guitars and other instruments. Mike's first public appearance was at 7 years old in church. He didn't know he could sing back then but his teacher knew right away. At 15, Mike entered a local singing contest and took everyone by surprise with his covers of songs by Randy Travis. From that point on, he was frequently asked to do amateur shows and house parties. When he reached the age of 17, he joined his first band and played all over the province and into the U.S. In 1999, he packed his instruments and his clothes and headed towards Calgary, Alberta to see what the music industry had to offer there. He was hired by a band calle

With three Alberta Country Music Association Group of the Year nominations to their name, along with nominations for Fans' Choice, Song of the Year and Album of the Year, Alberta's DOMINO is on their way to even bigger success in country music. Coming from various backgrounds in music, the group consists of: Kent Nixon on lead guitar and vocals – One will most likely find Kent at rodeos, having bbq parties (mixes a mean martini) and spending time with family. He also has his sights on getting his pilot's license! Luanne Carl on bass and vocals – When not songwriting and performing you can find Luanne watching horror movies or in the mountains, hiking and camping with family. Scott McKnight drummer and vocals – Scott is an avid hockey player, loves to golf and travel. You might even catch him honing some guitar playing skills! Russ Carl on guitar, mandolin and vocals – Russ enjoys reading, painting and a good round of golf as well as camping with the family. No soggy chips or warm beer for this guy! Othe

OLIVIA FRANCES is an old soul wrapped inside the effervescent free spirit of an 18-year-old girl. This talented singer-songwriter originally from Cincinnati, OH and now based in Nashville began her musical journey at a young age – her first performance was a duet with a friend during an elementary school talent show. Her pursuit of the spotlight was set in motion in 7th Grade when Olivia had her first solo at the school’s Winter Concert. It was a moment that remains vividly in her mind; as she stepped up to the microphone, away from the choir and sang her first solo, Olivia knew in that instant that being on stage was where she belonged. She started studying music in earnest after that; with piano at age six and by the time she was 12, her love of guitar and songwriting came to the forefront. Olivia continues to hone her musical talents and took the step of moving to Nashville on her own after graduating high school. After joining the prestigious Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI) at age

Acclaimed for bringingrock energy to country audiences, Aaron Pritchett continues to hold the title of one of the most sought after artists in the business. His passion and intensity for his art overflows on stage and spills into his unwavering dedication to his fans. Growing up in small-town Northern BC, Aaron drew his earliest musical influences from 80’s Rock, but the transition to country music came naturally: “It was based on being able to relate to the stories that country songs told. Those stories were a lot like mine. I was going fishing, camping, and riding buses to hockey tournaments in even smaller towns than my own, life was a lot more country than rock and roll. That feeling resonated with me and I strive to convey that in my music today.” Aaron has climbed the country radio & CMT charts with past hits like “Big Wheel”, “Hold My Beer” and “Let’s Get Rowdy” to his latest successes “Boat On The Water”, “Hold You Like My Whiskey” and “Wake You With A Kiss”. Aaron has just released his first Gr

LARRY BERRIO Sudbury's Larry Berrio just finished performing at the Cadillac Lounge in Toronto (May 9th) as part of the Crown 26 Artist Showcase. His new album called The Journey will be released this spring. The lead single is a ballad called Get It Right The First Time. Larry has opened up show for Brooks & Dunn, Terri Clark, Johnny Reid and other big names. In 2010, he released the song and video Rock Town which was dedicated to the hard working men and women in the mining industry. He has been a featured guest on several television programs such as Canada in the Rough, Fins and Skins, The Red Green Show, Go Riding and Snowmobiler TV. Tune in to hear Larry's latest single and learn more about his new album and plans for 2015. WENDY LYNN SNIDER Country artist Wendy Lynn Snider was born & raised in the beautiful surroundings of Temagami, Ontario. She grew up in a musical family listening to Christian and classic Country performed by artists like Waylon Jennings, Johnny & June Carter Cash, and