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Byrdie Wilson Confronts Heartbreak and Addiction on New Single “Over Me”

Eric Alper
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Byrdie Wilson Confronts Heartbreak and Addiction on New Single “Over Me”

Rising country artist Byrdie Wilson finds her voice with the release of her newest single, “Over Me,” available everywhere now! Co-written with fellow singer-songwriter Krissy Feniak, the track is a no-holds-barred look at the gut-wrenching moment when someone you love chooses alcohol over a future together.

Driven by a haunting melody and emotionally charged lyrics, “Over Me” paints a vivid picture of the wreckage left behind when addiction and dishonesty take the wheel. With lines like “It’s a quarter to 3 / You’re drinking Jack over me,”Wilson’s voice is equal parts grief-stricken and unflinching, striking a perfect balance between vulnerability and strength.

“Everyone talks about heartbreak, but not everyone talks about what it feels like when someone you love won’t fight for you – when they keep choosing the bottle or the betrayal instead,” says Wilson. “This song is for anyone who’s ever realized they deserve more and decided not to settle.”

With echoes of Miranda Lambert grit and Kelsea Ballerini vulnerability, Wilson’s voice cuts through the noise and makes you feel every word. It’s not just a breakup anthem; it’s a breakthrough.

Sebastian Schub Shares Tender New Single “Be Still” From Debut EP ‘Sing Like Madonna’

Eric Alper
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Sebastian Schub Shares Tender New Single “Be Still” From Debut EP ‘Sing Like Madonna’

Sebastian Schub has released “Be Still,” a new track from his debut EP Sing Like Madonna. “Be Still” is streaming now . The EP is out now via Island EMI / Capitol Records.

“Be Still” is a tender, intimate track putting the emphasis on Sebastian’s rich and powerful baritone vocal. It’s another beautiful taster to Seb’s first full body of work.

Sebastian Schub recently completed his sold-out UK tour and heads to the US in June for shows in New York and Los Angeles. Later this summer, he supports Noah Kahan at BST Hyde Park in London.

Sebastian Schub has lived a thousand lives before the one presented on his debut single “Sing Like Madonna.” An opera singer, actor, busker and now solo star in waiting, the German-born, London-based artist has gone from performing on the streets to blowing up on TikTok, every one of these disparate experiences moulding him into a special and distinctive new voice.

Born in Hamburg, Seb was enrolled into the city’s youth opera academy as a five-year-old, learning mime and musical theatre as well as singing. When he moved to London at 17 years old, his initial dream was to make it as an actor. With work in that field eluding him, he busked on the streets to make money.

Though he attended – and then dropped out of – music school, Seb found that the real work required to make it in music came from the hard yards of busking and pub gigs rather than a formal education.

While the days would be spent playing songs by other artists, it would be at 11pm on the South Bank, “when everyone had stopped listening,” that Seb would try new things out and find different tones and styles to his voice. He then scraped together some originals to get slots at Camden’s Spiritual Bar, the legendary open-mic venue that hosted early gigs from the likes of Michael Kiwanuka and Jade Bird.

With his rich, deep voice, he captivated rooms previously awash with inane chatter and got busy and impatient Londoners to pause their stomps around the city to watch him perform on the pavement.

After putting in the proverbial 10,000 hours, doing the hard yards and playing the dead gigs, it was somewhat perfect that Seb’s music then exploded online overnight. Immediate virality is common for songwriters in 2025, but very few experience it after toiling away like he has, meaning that Seb was ready for the whirlwind that is sure to follow.

Working with Steve Fitzmaurice (Glen Hansard, Sam Smith) and Rob Kirwan (Hozier, PJ Harvey), he then settled into a working relationship with Kiwi producer Dann Hume (Laura Mvula, Matt Corby) and decamped to work and record at his studio on Barry Island, Wales. A competent producer himself, Schub found in Hume a collaborator who “does everything that I do but better than me. The creative choices he makes are often what I like anyway. He’ll plug the guitar in and make it sound exactly the way I would want it to sound.”

Sebastian’s songwriting finds its inspiration within the Glen Hansards of the world (the beloved Irish troubadour who brought his no-nonsense songwriting to Broadway and the West End in the award-winning musical Once). Hansard’s honesty and realism captured Schub’s imagination from an early age, and it’s that honesty and realism that drives his own songcraft in the otherwise modern day.

It took Seb time and effort to find his lyrical voice, too. “English isn’t really my language and I didn’t speak it until I was 15,” he says, “so I wasn’t really thinking about lyrics much when I started.” He studied English Literature, giving him a greater grasp of the language’s nuances and power. “I read Jane Eyre four times – in English, in German, in English and then in English again, just to get it. It’s work that’s really paid off. It took a long time, but now I can really trust that I know how to talk and write now.”

Though he might only be crossing your radar very recently, Seb’s musical history is a rich and detailed one defined by hard graft. It’s shown on a debut EP packed with depth, heart, and ambition – the latest building block for a future star and one that’s been a long time coming.

Sting and Shaggy Reunite to Co-Headline ‘One Fine Day Festival’ With O.A.R., Marcia Griffiths, The Original Wailers, and More

Eric Alper
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Sting and Shaggy Reunite to Co-Headline ‘One Fine Day Festival’ With O.A.R., Marcia Griffiths, The Original Wailers, and More

Sting and Shaggy will again reunite to host, curate and co-headline the One Fine Day Festival, a full day of eclectic music featuring a diverse artist lineup across two stages returning exclusively to The Mann in Fairmount Park in Philadelphia, PA, on Saturday, September 6, 2025. The charity partner for this special event is St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Headlining the main stage at TD Pavilion at The Mann, Sting and Shaggy, both managed by Martin Kierszenbaum/Cherrytree Music Company, will perform their biggest hits together, trading off and collaborating on ‘Every Breath You Take,’ ‘Englishman In New York,’ ‘Message In A Bottle,’ ‘It Wasn’t Me,’ ‘Boombastic,’ ‘Angel’ and others, including “Til A Mawnin,'” their latest collaborative single which debuted at #1 on the iTunes reggae songs chart.

“One Fine Day” will fill the air with uplifting spirit and energy along with additional musical performances including on the main stage at TD Pavilion at The Mann: O.A.R., Marcia Griffiths, and Chance Emerson; and on the Highmark Skyline Stage at The Mann: The Original Wailers featuring Al Anderson, Big Freedia, and SOPHIE GREY. all against the beautiful backdrop of Fairmount Park.

Reflecting on 2023’s ‘One Fine Day,’ Sting says, “the energy was unforgettable, and the connection with the crowd in Philadelphia was something truly special.” He continues, “Shaggy and I have an effortless creative chemistry-we’re always pushing each other into unexpected and exciting musical directions. We’re looking forward to returning to one of our favorite cities for another day of hits and musical adventure.”

“Sting is a constant spark for musical curiosity,” says Shaggy. “Every time we collaborate, it’s a fusion of our cultures, styles, and that shared sense of exploration. After the incredible vibes at the last ‘One Fine Day,’ we knew we had to bring it back. We’re excited to return to Philly and once again gather some of our favorite artists to celebrate music the way we love it-full of energy, soul, and surprises.”

The inaugural One Fine Day Festival was held at The Mann in September 2023 while this year’s lineup promises another unforgettable musical experience, featuring dynamic performances by indie rock/reggae jam band, O.A.R., the legendary reggae vibes of The Original Wailers featuring Al Anderson, and the iconic voice of Marcia Griffiths. Audiences will also be treated to the high-energy bounce of Big Freedia, the poignant songwriting and powerful voice of BMI John Lennon Award-winner Chance Emerson, and the fresh electronic pop of SOPHIE GREY. – a classical-musician-turned-modern-pop-queen who writes and produces all of her music. From reggae classics to indie soul and electrifying beats, this diverse roster offers something for every music lover.

Dave Lenahan Releases New Single “Baby I’m Gone” Ahead of Concept Album ‘Absalom’

Eric Alper
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Dave Lenahan Releases New Single “Baby I’m Gone” Ahead of Concept Album ‘Absalom’

Dave Lenahan, a seasoned Nashville-based singer-songwriter with roots in Cleveland’s golden era of rock, continues to craft heartfelt narratives that blend his unique fusion of Cleveland rock and Americana. His new single, “Baby I’m Gone,” delivers a stirring vocal performance underscored by rich country instrumentation. It explores the strength it takes to leave a relationship where love is no longer enough. You can find the single out now on all digital streaming platforms.

With lyrics like, “You just don’t know what you got till it’s gone / Someday you’ll miss me when I get the strength to move on / But, I can be free from you here / It’ll just take a couple more beers / And, baby, I’m gone,” Lenahan captures the emotional complexity of walking away with honesty and vulnerability.

Raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Lenahan was shaped by legendary artists such as Michael Stanley, Dan Fogelberg, and The Eagles. Beginning guitar at age 11 and sharpening his craft in church choirs and worship bands, he spent four decades in radio before dedicating himself fully to songwriting. As Cincinnati coordinator for the Nashville Songwriters Association International (NSAI), he has co-written hundreds of songs and shared stages with indie and Americana talents at venues like The Bluebird Cafe and The Listening Room.

His 2023 debut album, Or Something Like That…, introduced his warm, rootsy sound to a broader audience and set the stage for his upcoming concept album Absalom. His project is inspired by a forgotten 19th-century cemetery near his home, a site he helped uncover with the help of fellow songwriters and historical researchers. Songs like the haunting title track “Absalom” and “Father of Peace” have already earned Top 10 finalist honors in the World Songwriting Awards.

“Baby I’m Gone,” alongside tracks such as “Die On This Barstool,” “First,” and “Faces in the Glow,” was recorded with Grammy-winning producer Alan Sanderson (Fleetwood Mac, Michael Jackson, Elton John, Fiona Apple, B.B. King, Counting Crows, Elvis Costello, Ziggy Marley, Ryan Adams, Weezer, and The Rolling Stones) in San Diego. The album features collaborations with acclaimed writers including Jessica Nixon, Taylin Rae, and Norm McDonald. Previously recorded by Chancey Williams, “Baby I’m Gone” has become a standout fan favorite and frequent show-closer for Lenahan.

With over 1 million Spotify streams, including the viral “Squirrel Train” by Pamela Hopkins (which reached #1 on Australia’s OZCMR chart), Lenahan’s impact extends beyond music. As host of The Songwriter Connection podcast, winner of the 2024 Elite Music Award for Podcast of the Year, he highlights rising and established songwriters with insight and humor.

Writing nearly 100 songs annually and performing over 100 shows each year, Dave Lenahan remains deeply committed to mentorship, community, and authentic storytelling. With Absalom on the horizon, he continues to push creative boundaries while honoring the heartfelt narratives that define his work.

‘Hardcore Punk in the Age of Reagan’ by Robert Fitzgerald Explores Punk’s Defiant Soundtrack to the 1980s Presidency

Eric Alper
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‘Hardcore Punk in the Age of Reagan’ by Robert Fitzgerald Explores Punk’s Defiant Soundtrack to the 1980s Presidency

Few politicians produced the musical reaction that Ronald Reagan did. His California-branded conservatism inspired countless young people to pick up guitars and thrash out their political angst. Punk bands across the United States took aim at the man, his presidency, and the idea of America he was selling to voters nationwide. Small yet vibrant scenes across the country emerged to challenge the communal norms and social values projected on them by the popular media and consumer culture. Punk enthusiast Robert Fitzgerald argues that these songs’ lyrics aren’t just catchy and fun to scream along with; they also reveal the thoughts and feelings of artists reacting to their political environment in real, forthright, and uncensored time.

In candid detail, Fitzgerald shows how these lyrics illustrated what young adults felt and how they reacted to one of the most influential and divisive leaders of the era. Punk lyrics are seemingly simple, the author argues, but they sketch out a complex, musically inspired countermovement that is as canonical in the American songbook as the folk and rock protest music that came before.

Giant Announce New Album ‘Stand And Deliver’ With Single “It’s Not Right”

Eric Alper
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Giant Announce New Album ‘Stand And Deliver’ With Single “It’s Not Right”

Giant are excited to announce the release of their new album ‘Stand And Deliver,’ via Frontiers Music Srl. To celebrate the release, the band has shared a new track, “It’s Not Right.” This single is accompanied by a visualizer.

GIANT is entering a powerful new chapter in their storied career, featuring a fresh lineup that propels the band’s signature sound to exhilarating new heights. Drummer and founder David Huff expressed his excitement for the new album:

“Making GIANT records has always been our passion! Thanks to everyone at Frontiers, we can make our dreams happen. I know it’s a bit of a different lineup, but whoever is in the lineup, the legacy of GIANT lives on.”

‘Stand And Deliver’ showcases once again the talents of David Huff on drums, Mike Brignardello on bass, Kent Hilli (of Perfect Plan) as the commanding lead vocalist, with the addition of Jimmy Westerlund (One Desire) on guitars. Westerlund also takes on mixing duties alongside Alessandro Del Vecchio, who adds his touch on keyboards as a featured guest.

As if this dynamic combination of talent was not enough, the album also includes some gems penned by the original guitarist and singer Dann Huff including “Time To Call It Love” (a collaboration with the late Mark Spiro), “Holdin’ On For Dear Life” and “Paradise Found”, coming both from his sessions with Van Stephenson, which strongly link the new album with the sound of the classic album ‘Time To Burn’.

However, with this new album, GIANT delivers the hard-hitting rock and melodic hooks that fans have come to expect while pushing the boundaries of the genre with a state-of-the-art production.

Damiano David Releases Debut Solo Album ‘Funny Little Fears’ Featuring Suki Waterhouse and d4vd

Eric Alper
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Damiano David Releases Debut Solo Album ‘Funny Little Fears’ Featuring Suki Waterhouse and d4vd

Maneskin frontman Damiano David has today released his highly anticipated debut solo album Funny Little Fears, out now via Sony Music Italy / Arista. The album is available digitally and physically in several formats on vinyl and CD.

Marking a bold and defiant new chapter in Damiano’s career and artistry, Funny Little Fears sees the acclaimed artist break the molds of expectation, both sonically and lyrically, defy genre boundaries, and bravely journey deep within the confides of his own mind as he confronts his fears.

The album features previously released singles ‘Born With A Broken Heart’, ‘Silverlines’ produced by Labrinth, ‘Next Summer’ and ‘Voices’, and also features collaborations with English singer-songwriter and actress Suki Waterhouse on The Bruise and visionary artist d4vd on Tangerine.

Discussing the album, Damiano says “I’ve described FUNNY LITTLE FEARS as the emotional diary of my past year. Writing it helped me overcome certain emotional blocks and anxieties, and allowed me to reveal a personal and musical side that is important to me.”

On his collaboration with Suki Waterhouse, he says “I love Suki’s voice; it gives me the vintage vibes that I adore. Her overall look and image are so elegant and she is a perfect fit for a song like ‘The Bruise.'”

On his collaboration with d4vd, Damiano says “d4dv is an artist I truly respect; his latest album is amazing. I couldn’t be happier to know that he liked ‘Tangerine’ and wanted to collaborate on it. He added an incredible and distinct touch to the song.”

On working with Damiano, d4vd says “I was honored that Damiano invited me to be on his album. That’s like the biggest honor that someone could give you and I’ve been a fan of him & Maneskin for so long now so it was a no brainer. And I love the song!”

On Wednesday, MTV premiered a Global First Look of ‘FUNNY little STORIES’, a short film showcasing four tracks from the album. The film was featured across MTV’s global social media platforms and television channels. The video made its global broadcast premiere on MTV Live, MTVU, MTV Biggest Pop and across MTV’s global network of channels, as well as on the Paramount Times Square billboards.

Velvet Chains Return With Revitalized Lineup and New Single “Ghost In The Shell”

Eric Alper
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Velvet Chains Return With Revitalized Lineup and New Single “Ghost In The Shell”

Building upon the success of their last Top 25 single “Dead Inside” that spent 22 weeks on the chart, Las Vegas rockers Velvet Chains are back with a revitalized lineup and new single “Ghost In The Shell.”

The latest single is set to build upon the success the band now comprised of Chaz Terra (vocals), Phillip Paulsen (guitars/backing vocals), Von Boldt (guitars/backing vocals), Nils Goldschmidt (bass/backing vocals) and Jason Hope (drums) has garnered already at rock radio.

The song kicks off with a memorable intro and is pushed by the relatable lyrics from the chorus: “Burn down the system, Set it on fire, They took my soul and left me to die here.”

Why the 1990s Club Nights and Raves Are Still a Hot Topic Today

Eric Alper
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Why the 1990s Club Nights and Raves Are Still a Hot Topic Today

This fall, Toronto gets a dose of nostalgia and knowledge with a unique two-part event series that asks one big question: What makes the 1990s club nights and raves still a hot topic in conversations today?

Hosted by experienced music marketer, college professor, lecturer, freelance educator, and DJ James Kekanovich, the Signals™ EDUtainment Events will blend music, storytelling, and interactivity to explore how the rave and club culture of the ’90s continues to inspire music, fashion, architecture, technology, and community

James isn’t just talking about music—he’s mixing it. Literally. The events will be about one-third music and two-thirds public speaking, with James weaving his voice work into the sound itself. By combining beats with storytelling, he’ll help participants reconnect with their own memories of the Toronto music scene while gaining new insights into the history of popular music.

Attendees will get to:

  • [RE] Discover the sounds that shaped today’s music scene
  • [RE] Connect by sharing and comparing personal experiences
  • [RE] Live the music through hands-on activities

Alongside the interactive talks, there will also be an exhibition of books, records, CDs, flyers, and artifacts from the era. Think of it as a rave history lesson, but with real rhythm.

Event Details

📅 Part 1: Sunday, September 7, 2025
📅 Part 2: Sunday, October 5, 2025
🕑 2:00–5:00 PM (doors at 1:30 PM)
📍 BSMT254, 254 Lansdowne Ave, Toronto, ON M6H 3X9
🔞 19+ Event
🎟️ $30 advance tickets per event (no door sales)

More info: QPoint.org | BSMT254

James brings decades of experience to these events. In the early ’90s, he was at the heart of Toronto’s music scene, marketing DJ IAIN’s club nights and remixes across genres like New Wave, Synth-pop, Britpop, Retro 80s, Industrial, Manchester, Electronica, Techno, Alternative Rock, and Grunge. He also worked on the Electronic Revolution CD with Sony Music, and co-marketed iconic Toronto rave series like Nitrous Raves (set in industrial warehouses) and Atlantis Raves (held in landmark venues such as the CN Tower, Ontario Science Centre, and even an aircraft hangar at Billy Bishop Toronto City Airport).

These raves hosted local legends and global icons alike—including Moby, Orbital, Aphex Twin, Derrick May, Richie Hawtin, Mike Huckaby, 2 Unlimited, and DJ Tim of the Utah Saints—alongside countless Toronto DJs spinning dance, house, techno, industrial, jungle, and trance. Together with collaborators, James helped create unforgettable experiences that shaped the city’s nightlife and music culture.

Outside of promoting events, James worked at Sam The Record Man on Yonge Street, guiding customers through their music discoveries. Later, he transitioned into education, teaching in the Music Business Management Program at Durham College and now in the Entrepreneurship Academy at Canadore College, building on over a decade of college-level teaching experience.

His academic background includes a B.A. (Hons) in Communication Studies from York University, where he studied everything from media and advertising to popular music history, electronica, and DJ/dance floor culture.

For James, music isn’t just entertainment—it’s a tool for learning and reflection. By blending beats with knowledge, these Signals™ EDUtainment Events will let participants revisit the 1990s in fun, emotional, and memorable ways while uncovering how that era continues to influence today’s culture.

So—are you ready to rave about learning?

It’s time to share and compare your experiences. It’s time to rediscover the ’90s. It’s time to Rave About Learning!

Blenders Eyewear Names Alana Springsteen as New Brand Ambassador Ahead of Exclusive 2025 Collaboration

Eric Alper
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Blenders Eyewear Names Alana Springsteen as New Brand Ambassador Ahead of Exclusive 2025 Collaboration

Blenders Eyewear, a leading eyewear brand, part of Safilo Group, today announced Country music sensation Alana Springsteen as its newest brand ambassador. A powerhouse performer known for her iconic style and magnetic stage presence, Springsteen joins Blenders’ dynamic ambassador roster of visionaries pushing boundaries across music, sports, and fashion.  

Through this initiative, fans will enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at Springsteen’s favorite Blenders styles and how they seamlessly fit into her expressive, on-the-go lifestyle. From exclusive campaigns to dynamic social content, the initiative will highlight her go-to Blenders frames, along with an exclusive product collaboration in store for late 2025.

“Partnering with Blenders feels like such a natural fit. Growing up in Virginia Beach, my kind of country came with salt in the air and sand in my boots,” said Alana Springsteen. “I’ve always been drawn to looks that reflect both sides of me – laid-back and bold, grounded and expressive. That’s what I love about Blenders. They let me make a statement without having to say anything.”

A #1 chart-topper recognized as a rising force in the genre, Springsteen brings a fresh, new energy to Blenders’ offerings. Her addition as a brand ambassador marks the next step in Blenders’ continued expansion in the music space, reinforcing Blenders’ commitment to championing individuality through vibrant, expressive product storytelling.

“Blenders was born on the dance floor, with music in its veins—so teaming up with Alana feels like destiny. She’s not just a rising star; she’s a force: bold, grounded, and unapologetically herself. That’s the DNA this brand was built on. She can command a stage and still feel like your best friend—and that’s exactly what we look for in a partner,” said Chase Fisher, Founder and Brand Evangelist of Blenders Eyewear. “She’s got the voice, the heart, and the fire. This isn’t just a partnership—it’s a celebration of what happens when you stay true to your vision.”

Rooted in music and driven by its vibrant designs, Blenders continues to redefine what’s possible in the eyewear space. Now teaming up with Springsteen, the brand continues its forward-looking vision to empower a new generation of creators and tastemakers who embody its mission of life in forward motion.

Since making her powerhouse debut with TWENTY SOMETHING – a landmark three-part album featuring GOLD “goodbye looks good on you (feat. Mitchell Tenpenny)” (among the RIAA’s Class of 2024) and accompanied by an extended DELUXE edition – Columbia Records/Sony Music Nashville artist-songwriter Alana Springsteen has won acclaim from the likes of NPR Music who noted, “Few artists dissect and make sense of life in your 20s quite like Alana Springsteen.” Lauded by GRAMMY.com for “Speaking To An Entire Generation,” and praised by E! News as “one of Nashville’s most buzzworthy emerging artists,” she’s been crowned “the future of country music” by PEOPLE. With her latest output including crossover collaborations like her first career #1 with Tiësto (“Hot Honey”) and William Black (“My Own Advice” feat. ILLENIUM), she’s surpassed 340 MILLION career streams globally. The 24-year-old is among the roster for the 2024 CMT LISTEN UP campaign; Class of 2023 for CMT Next Women of Country and MusicRow‘s Next Big Thing; and a Celebrity Ambassador for the Ryan Seacrest Foundation. Along with wrapping up her first U.S. headline run on THE TWENTY SOMETHING TOUR, she’s appeared at the Grand Ole Opry, and supported Luke Bryan, Tyler Hubbard, LANY, Mitchell Tenpenny, NEEDTOBREATHE, Switchfoot, and more. After firing up her boldest chapter yet with the double-song release of “cowboy / hold my beer,” she’s released Alana Springsteen: Live from the Ryman and Alana Springsteen: Live from NPR’s Tiny Desk. Next up, Springsteen will join Keith Urban on his HIGH AND ALIVE WORLD TOUR.

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That Eric Alper

Eric Alper is a 6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week and has overseen the publicity campaigns for over 183 JUNO Award-nominated albums (and 16 in 2025), 45 Grammy-nominated albums, including 47 JUNO Award, 58 Canadian Folk Music Award, 126 Maple Blues Award-winning albums and is also truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

Contact me: eric@thatericalper.com

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