Canadian musician Kyle McKearney will be performing at the Esplanade on Sunday at 7:30 p.m.--Photo credit to Chris Doi.
kking@medicinehatnews.com
Canadian musician Kyle McKearney is excited to return to Medicine Hat this Sunday, and share with audiences music entirely his own.
McKearney, who hails from B.C. but now lives in Calgary, says he’s looking forward to performing a variety of songs which showcase his signature Americana/Roots sound.
“It’s country just a little left of centre,” McKearney told the News ahead of his performance. “It’s not like commercial country that you would hear on radio. It’s more (like) a mix of like soul and blues.
“Growing up, my dad and grandparents all played bluegrass and country and western (music). And I got really into rock in my teen years. So, I think it just felt right for me when I discovered the genre (of Americana/Roots). I was like ‘That’s what I’ve got to do. That’s what I am.’ Because it’s kind of all the things I’ve ever done blending together.”
With a lifelong passion for music, McKearney is not new to touring and has performed in Medicine Hat several times before, albeit in different capacities.
“I’ve performed at the Esplanade several times,” McKearney said. “I used to be in an alt-pop band called The New Electric and performed with Nick Carter there and played with Coleman Hell and Tyler Shaw there. So, I’ve done quite a few shows there (but) not under my own name and not doing Americana music.”
McKearney, who was recently named Songwriter of the Year at the YYC Music Awards, plans to perform songs from his debut solo album Down-Home, including his hits ‘Devil Water’ and ‘Tough or Die,’ along with other songs he’s performed throughout his career.
“I’m really excited about the show,” said McKearney. “It’s the full meal deal (audiences) are going to get … I promise we won’t disappoint and that we’ll give you an experience and make some memories.”
McKearney is especially excited to see audience reactions, as he says Hatters create a unique atmosphere by really focusing on the music and the emotions behind such.
“I’ve found them great listeners,” he said. “I find when I go to a city that might have concerts all the time, they’re a little more wild and they want to party a bit more. But I find in Medicine Hat they’re really content just checking out music. And they’re honest with you if they enjoy it or not.”
Catch McKearney at the Esplanade tomorrow evening. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at tixx.ca or at the box office.
