A day specially dedicated to boosting Canadian artists is coming up this weekend and one city in our region is in the spotlight. Saturday is Music Day in Canada, a national celebration connecting Canadian artists with venues, industry partners and communities through live music events right across the country. Barrie is one of 20 cities participating in the day that will feature live music from up-and-coming artists at local venues. Founded by The Lemmon Foundation, Music Day in Canada began as an emerging artist showcase, but has since grown into something much bigger. The Lemmon Foundation supports artists through mentorship and education and helps them connect with industry leaders. The goal for the event is to bring the Canadian music industry together and support local artists, offering as many shows as possible across the country all on one day. Music Day in Canada originally had nine cities participating when it started three years ago but is up to 20 participating cities. But how did Barrie get to be one of the lucky ones? President and Executive Director of The Lemmon Foundation Michael Scriven says it’s the combination of the success of the Troubadour Summer Concert Series—which The Lemmon Foundation is a part of—the Barrie community and the vibrant music industry within the city. “For us it just seemed like a natural fit and we’re excited to be growing with Barrie and with the music industry in Barrie itself,” Scriven tells CTV News. Barrie country artist Brian John Harwood will be headlining at the Queens Hotel in downtown Barrie. “I love Brian’s music,” says Scriven. “I think he’s just a very authentic artist.” Harwood is especially excited about performing in his hometown. “I’ve had the opportunity to play a lot of incredible stages over the years, but there’s always something different about playing at home. Headlining Music Day in Canada in Barrie is a chance to celebrate Canadian music with the community I grew up in,” Harwood tells CTV News. “We’ve put together a big show, and I’m looking forward to getting up there, connecting with the crowd and showing people exactly what a Brian John Harwood show is all about…Forget the stresses of life and just having a good time singing along.” Harwood released his first full-length album this year called Ballads ‘n’ Bangers. It features several Canadian country artists including Pure Country 106 Morning Show Host and The Road Hammers lead singer Jason McCoy. The album also features Jason Blaine and Clayton Bellamy. Joining him on stage will be artists Andy Colonico, Beasley and Graham Scott Fleming. The show runs from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday. Tickets can be purchased online through Showpass.
