Kathryn Kyte
Toronto’s own Jesse Weeks has got something to smile about. Announced as one of the finalists for the Canadian Radio Star Award, Weeks beat out a slew of regional competitors with his original songwriting. His song, ‘Somewhere in the Distance’ was selected by Virgin 99.9 (Toronto) and Weeks will be one of the 12 finalists gunning for top prize.
Evaluated by a panel of judges including, Artist/Songwriter/Author Dan Hill and Greg Boggs (Director of A&R, Sony Music Inc.), each finalist has brought their own originality to the mix, hoping their recipe will soon be heard all over Canada. The National Songwriter Winner will be announced Saturday March 13th at 11:15am, in conjunction with the Canadian Music Week Conference.
Having entered the contest before and finishing 5th in recent years, Weeks has increasingly become recognized as one of Canada’s powerful new songwriters.
“It’s such an honour to be a finalist. It’s definitely the best (biggest) contest to win for Ontario, and to win the National prize would be incredible.”
Weeks is up against a roster of talent, but what can we expect from this local writer?
“I keep a pop template in regards to my writing, that’s what people have come to know. I always write for radio and my strengths are definitely in the writing and the melodies. I am not as strong in performing, that’s where musicians come in.”
Citing influences like Jason Mraz, Rob Thomas and Bedouin Soundclash, Weeks has a emotive clasp that surfaces through his introspective songwriting.
All finalists have received an all-expense weekend to CMW, which includes two-night accommodation at the Fairmont Royal York Hotel, a full-access pass to all the festivities, a Garrison AGGC KOA-Ce acoustic guitar, a studio/live package including Yamaha Pockettrak 2G, and premier gear to aid in further music magic.
The winner of the Galaxie Radio Star Award will receive:
- $10, 000 in cash
- Tascam 2488 Neo PortaStudio 24 track Self Contained Audio Work station
- Neumann TLM 49 Professional Studio Mic
- Yamaha M06 Music Production synthesizer
- 30 Hours of mixing and mastering from MetalWorks Recording Studio
- $5,000 in National Radio Promotion
- Video distribution to television, a banner and one free digital radio station upload
Jesse Weeks performs live on March 13th at 11pm at the Free Times Café.
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