tag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:/blogs/latest-news?p=10Latest News2023-12-15T16:05:47-05:00Rhymes and Good Times is an audiobook podcast featuring stories about the off-stage lives of entertainers. Duncan FremlinfalseDuncan Fremlinbanjodunc@yahoo.catag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/73199062023-12-15T16:05:47-05:002024-03-19T01:51:08-04:00Stories (and even songs) Unfit For the Stage Now Available<p>Hello Everyone:</p><p>Each touring season, our shows offer us many opportunities to sing our songs and tell our stories. After 45 years, we have hundreds to choose from! A typical appearance at our theatre shows allows for 20+ songs and 10+ stories, give or take. What about the many others we don’t have time for?</p><p>Well, that’s what <a class="no-pjax" href="https://banjodunc.substack.com/" data-link-type="url">this new website</a> is for.</p><p>Right here, we’re going to be uploading stories, videos, audio, images and interviews that you’ll never get to see at our shows. Most will come from our personal libraries, never before released.</p><p>We invite you to stick around for the ride.</p><p>Always, the best way to keep up with our goings-on is to subscribe our YouTube Channel. It continues to get the most attention from the fans and media. If you're wodnering why, it's because the videos are entertaining as hsell. For example, <a class="no-pjax" href="https://youtu.be/jeXn_cjnngw?si=20xRQQM-kAPzPwU6" data-link-type="url">this story about Stompin' Tom's songwriting partner</a>, Gate Lepine, trashing the Boot Records offices over a contractual dispute. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/170852/0e8ca4c160e88d22a772f0fa8f44e73ebc3651a6/original/dwf-gaet-trash-office.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/73016772023-11-10T09:08:37-05:002024-03-02T08:56:49-05:00Our 10th Anniversary Approaches!<p>No musicians in Canada have played more shows with Stompin' Tom Connors than the members of Whiskey Jack. <strong>"</strong><i><strong>Whiskey Jack Presents Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom</strong></i><strong>"</strong>. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/170852/1f9f4ea2f87d5c418a78cdf5ca63d95366f88f52/original/meaford-live-on-stage.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p><p>This odyssey began in 2014 and for our 10th anniversary in 2024, we're aiming for our busiest season ever. </p><div>From the stage each night, we can't help but notice that Canadians have an appetite for Tom's music. They're particularly entertained by the outrageously funny personality we share through our personal stories. Numerous 2023 sold out shows in Ontario and Eastern Canada are a testament to his message of hope and laughter, with a touch of national pride thrown in for good measure. </div><div> </div><div>A new multi-media and theatrical presentation has elevated this show to new levels of enjoyment. It's a show for all age groups and all musical tastes!</div><div> </div><div>If you're looking for a show to please the entire family, check out our schedule and attend one of our shows. </div>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/72946122023-10-27T15:19:00-04:002023-10-27T15:19:00-04:00Whiskey Jack ends year 46 at the Free Times <p>With many shows already booked for 2024, we celebrate our last show of 2023 at the venerable Free Times Cafe. Our gracious hostess, Judy Perly continues to offer music fans an exceptionally charming, comfortable and inviting place to dine and listen to excellent music. </p><p>It's on College Street, steps from the U of T campus, the Annex, Parkdale, Kensington and more. </p><p>We will play our new CD. It's available to purchase on iTunes and anywhere else songs can be purchased. </p><p>We welcome our new friend Ajineen Sagal on violin/fiddle and as it turns out, she sings like an angel. Her new song, “The Weight On” is on our set list. We worked on it yesterday and the harmonies….oh, the beautiful harmonies.</p><p>“The” Russ Boswell, an old and valued friend will join us on bass.</p><p>We never take for granted our good fortune.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/170852/8de3f1b226d56988d6faadb4da5783479ad014b3/original/wj-cd-release-freetimes-square.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/72800782023-09-28T15:41:48-04:002023-10-16T10:48:22-04:00More "press" published today. Sault Star article link <p><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.saultstar.com/entertainment/local-arts/dusting-off-unfinished-stompin-tom-songs">https://www.saultstar.com/entertainment/local-arts/dusting-off-unfinished-stompin-tom-songs</a></p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/170852/fa05fb7ede3f935becfba07d09f92d65c3f18552/original/screenshot-2023-09-28-at-3-39-52-pm-2.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><p> </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/72776122023-09-23T08:22:27-04:002023-09-23T08:22:27-04:00Whiskey Jack is in the news…a lot! <p>But you won't hear about it from any of our social media sites. The local news reporters who donated their time, money and expertise to make this happen are denied access to the American social media sites. Should they be paid for their work? </p><p>Consider:</p><p>Brian Kelly, a very hard working journalist with The Sault Star has been a valued supporter of our show for many years. After our half hour chat yesterday, he told me that our conversation will result in an article promoting our October 7, 2023 show. </p><p>Contance Scrafield at <a class="no-pjax" href="https://citizen.on.ca/theatre-orangeville-announces-new-season-of-shows-subscriptions/" data-link-type="url">The Orangeville Citizen</a> took hours out of her day to talk with me and write an article that contributed to 2 sell out shows at Theatre Orangeville. She even reviewed my book. That was unexpected. <img src="https://d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/170852/c696e608668f21345ea59951bcde0f54456f181f/original/graveside-visit-erin-ont.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p><p>Saturday, Tristan Clark, a Wellington Advertiser reporter, traveled quite a distance to spend time with us during our <a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.wellingtonadvertiser.com/bandmates-pay-tribute-to-late-stompin-tom-connors/" data-link-type="url">graveside visit in Erin Ontario</a>. </p><p><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.sootoday.com/local-entertainment/keeper-of-stompin-toms-stompin-board-returns-to-the-sault-with-whiskey-jack-7551944" data-link-type="url">Sootoday</a> was kind enough to publish an article I wrote about Northern Ontario musical influences. </p><p>Doug Fisher spends hours each week researching and writing stories for <a class="no-pjax" href="https://cabbagetownreview.blogspot.com/2023/08/" data-link-type="url">Cabbagetown Neighbourhood Review</a><a data-link-type="url">. He m</a>entions us often. </p><p>Our interviews with the on-air personalities at <a class="no-pjax" href="https://theborderline.ca/duncan-fremlin-the-smart-as-trees-podcast/" data-link-type="url">the Borderline</a> (Soo radio) are available online thanks to a lot of work by everyone involved. </p><p>There are other news stories we haven't yet heard about.</p><p>In October, maybe we're coming to your town? Watch for us in Meaford, Elliot Lake, Sault Ste. Marie, Espanola, Tweed, Bancroft, Peterborough and Toronto.</p><p>Thanks for supporting live music.</p><p>Duncan, Douglas, Billy and James</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/72692592023-09-07T13:20:37-04:002023-09-07T13:27:29-04:00About to begin....Our 2023 Fall Tour & news from Espanola<p>Here at Whiskey Jack Headquarters, the staff is working feverishly to get everything in place for a very busy fall tour.</p><p>A stunning turn of events has caused us to stop and take stock. Yesterday, the town of Espanola lost their <br>primary employer, Domtar pulp and paper. Over 450 men and women lost their jobs. We are scheldued to play at their Legion on October 8, 2023. Regardless of how many tickets are sold, our show will go on. </p><p>I took a minute to reflect on some similar circumstances we encountered on my first Stompin' Tom tour in 1990. <br> </p><div class="video-container size_xl justify_center" style=""><iframe data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="wiG9pSq3Ngc" data-video-thumb-url="" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wiG9pSq3Ngc?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></div><p>On Friday, September 15th at 8 PM, we begin a three show run at Theatre Orangeville. Note the 7 PM start time on Saturday and the 2 PM matinee on the 17th. </p><p>In October, you'll find us returning, for the third time, to Meaford Hall on the 5th of October, 2023. </p><p>We then veer across the channel for return visits to Elliot Lake on the 6th, Sault Ste. Marie on the 7th and of course, Espanola on the 8th. </p><p>Some special offers will be announced soon on this Youtube Channel. Please subscribe.</p><p>A free upload is available here. It's from our new CD, Whiskey Jack 10 - Do It Again. This is our new version of a Stompin' Tom song we recorded with him in 1993. It's from the album, Dr. Stompin' Tom…eh? </p><p>Let's Smile Again is a fan favourite.</p><p> </p>4:29Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/72611662023-08-22T18:14:21-04:002023-09-06T21:26:36-04:00First single with accompanying video in 37 years<p><span style="color:rgb(15,20,25);">Walt Grealis at RPM (remember him and them?) will not be receiving a copy of Whiskey Jack's first single release in 37 years. It's called Beautiful World. The official video was released 12 hours ago… and it looks like this!</span></p><div class="video-container size_xl justify_center" style=""><iframe data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="pb_lON60f_c" data-video-thumb-url="" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/pb_lON60f_c?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></div><p> </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/72529112023-08-06T15:07:12-04:002023-08-06T15:07:46-04:00In 1993, Stompin' Tom invited me to his house to watch TV..& dont' forget to subscribe to our Youtube Channel www.youtube.com/banjodunc<p>Recently, I did something I should have done years ago. I became a card-carrying member of the Royal Canadian Legion. I'm a proud member of Branch 10, 1083 Pape Avenue, Toronto, On.</p><p><br>I once was a long time member of the Naval Club on Hayden Street in Toronto but I let that membership lapse. For that I'm sorry.</p><p><br>To commemorate my new membership, Whiskey Jack is formally adding a Canadian Armed Forces segment to our Stompin' Tom show. It's based on Tom's song, <a class="no-pjax" href="https://youtu.be/sYmQ-N2tLms" data-link-type="url">Blue Berets</a>. We recorded this song with Tom in 1993. To promote the song, a lavish and expensive video was produced. When it was complete, Tom called up and asked me to come to his house to watch TV. Well, not really.<br><br>One Sunday afternoon, I walked into his “office” and was greeted warmly. In fact, there was a glow in his smile. This sometimes happened when there was something in particular he was excited about. For example the afternoon we sat at his bar sipping a beer when when he told me of meeting Farley Mowat (the story is in my book, My Good Times With Stompin' Tom). He was almost giggling when that story was being told.</p><p><br>On this day, he said, “come on upstairs. I have something to show you.” That was highly irregular.</p><p><br>We entered the large living room in his modern side-split outside Georgetown. I was directed to “sit on the couch”. He proceeded to walk across the room to the TV, grab a VHS from a shelf and after some fiddling around, inserted the tape. This took a bit of time. He was obviously unfamiliar with the technology but he was determined to do it himself. I heard the machine receive the tape. He returned to his chair and the screen came alive.</p><p><br>This was my first time viewing the video. I obviously knew this version of the song well. I had played banjo and sang on it when we recorded Dr. Stompin' Tom…eh? a few months before. But there was something different about it. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/170852/0f6391c6cc00cdb245f47ddb320cfd103e545cf6/original/screenshot-2023-08-06-at-2-50-49-pm.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p><p><br>“Did you notice” asked Tom. “Can't say that I did Tom” was my reply.</p><p><br>“I had Brian Hewson (the recording engineer) double up your banjo solo.”</p><p><br>I was blown away by this. He liked what I played so much, they duplicated it so that my 8 bar solo played back-to-back.</p><p> <br>That was quite a moment for me, as a banjo player, as a recording artist and as a friend of Tom Connors. That story is also in my book.</p><p><br>Now, in 2023, my show, the one featuring the songs of the Stompin’ Tom Connors and the stories that followed me around during my time with him, is still going strong. I had thought about writing a Legion feature before but the time never seemed right. There were other themes and personal experiences that took precedent. Now it the right time.</p><p><br>We’ve added a Canadian Armed Forces story line to our show and it will be featured in all of our performances moving forward. This will be built entirely around the song, Blue Berets. I will sing it and I will play the solo Tom liked so much, note for note.</p><p><br>And now that I’m a paid up member of the Royal Canadian Legion, I can sing it with feeling.</p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p><p> </p>0:33Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/72493462023-07-29T18:10:50-04:002023-07-29T18:10:50-04:00Getting the word out in 2023<p>Never has it been more challenging to, as Frank Sinatra famously sings, “start spreading the news”. We enjoy every imaginable tool to communicate with each other but the sheer volume of words and images floating around the atmosphere is too much to handle.</p><p>Therefore, this platform has become our main tool for telling our fans what is going on in our music world and what to look forward to in the weeks to come. Thank you for reading this.</p><p>We use videos a lot. It saves time for us and for our audience and….they're great fun to produce.</p><p>Here's what has been going on these past few weeks. </p><div class="video-container size_xl justify_center" style=""><iframe data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="t3m9JATtWGY" data-video-thumb-url="" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/t3m9JATtWGY?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></div>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/72435712023-07-18T08:37:20-04:002023-07-18T08:37:20-04:00New CD, our 10th, is called "Do It Again"<p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Whiskey Jack 10, Do It Again! Nice rhyme. Douglas made that up.</strong></p><p style="text-align:center;"><strong>We're off and running. The CD cover is set as you can see here. </strong></p><p style="text-align:center;"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/170852/d6b1b64b0f8dc339fa44520f71c31f45557799ad/original/do-it-again-cd-cover-2023.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p><p><br>The files will soon be uploaded onto the website that will make the songs availalbe to the world. It's called <br>Distrokid. The release date is set for August 26 at the Upper Canada Folk Festival in Prescott. It will be available<br>on the streaming services within 14 days. </p><p>Singles (once called 45's) are still “a thing” even though there is no such item for sale. We're in the middle of our research to determine which of the 9 songs will be the face of the CD. To that end, we've sent it to some people <br>in the know, friends, fans and radio personalities and asked for their opinions. </p><p>If you'd like to be included, let us know and we'll send you the Dropbox link. We really appreciate feedback. This<br>is a 3 year project so our objectivity is all used up.</p><p>The production of the songs is courtesy many long (but enjoyable) hours at the consul by Douglas John Cameron. Many of our fans may not know that he has been producing successful recordngs for decades. This <br>is the one that might finally earn him his third Juno Award nomination. </p><p>To offer thanks to you for reading this far, I've uploaded a song from the CD. Download is free. The song is Champagne Charlie.<br> </p>3:20Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/72232212023-06-08T11:22:39-04:002023-06-08T20:27:10-04:00Spotlight on our Video Channel<p>Like every other successful business operation, the face of Whiskey Jack Music is displayed in all its glory on Social Media. In our case, the first place our audience is drawn to is our Youtube Channel. Our 1750+ Subscribers have spoken. They made this happen. We thank each and every one of them. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/170852/036af3c0e13c4a5d0e83b4cc6fabd58173797984/original/promo-facebook-page-cover.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p><p>Our overall public presence is under the Banjodunc Productions banner. The various Whiskey Jack shows we perform each year, duo's, trio's, 4-piece band, Stompin' Tom Show, park and kid's shows….are managed under this name. </p><p>Now that the Doogie and Dun flag is flying as Whiskey Jack, the influence of this channel will become an even bigger force. If you haven't tuned in to some of the popular videos presented there, now's your chance. Don't miss the Fiddle Medley with 1 million views, the Whiskey Jack/Gordon Lightfoot videos, the Tommy Hunter Show videos and much more. www.youtube.com/banjodunc</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/72231742023-06-08T08:10:21-04:002023-06-08T10:31:12-04:00Whiskey Jack in 2023<p>Since Whiskey Jack's inception 45 years ago, their fans have been showering them with accolades celebrating their songs and stories. But the one constant that has fueled their success is what brings the crowds to their feet each night - a polished show exuding charm, ease and playfulness, qualities welcomed in this post Covid world.<br>Duncan Fremlin, founder of the band (and now, author), along with his consort, multiple Juno Award nominee <br>Douglas John Cameron, learned their trade first hand from their years performing on National Television (CBC and Kid's TV). Then there were the larger-than-life personalities they performed with along the way - Tommy Hunter, <br>Gordon Lightfoot, Gordie Tapp, Mac Wiseman and Stompin' Tom Connors. This was their class room. What <br>remains is a show that is (as one fan noted online after one of their shows) <strong>"simply fantastic - the music and </strong><br><strong>stories of Vinyl Cafe meet the quirky humour of Red Green". <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/170852/85fb55565422abde2b86e2d818215947769fcc0c/original/wj-with-james.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></strong></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/72207562023-06-04T16:28:30-04:002023-06-04T16:28:31-04:00For Immediate Release - Doogie and Dun now known as Whiskey Jack<p style="text-align:center;"><span class="text-big"><strong>For Immediate Release</strong></span><br><span class="text-big"><strong>Sunday, June 4, 2023</strong></span></p><p style="text-align:center;"><span class="text-big">Banjodunc Productions</span></p><p style="text-align:center;">In future, all shows and recordings by</p><p style="text-align:center;">the musical duo, Doogie and Dun, will publicized as</p><p style="text-align:center;"><span class="text-huge"><strong>Whiskey Jack</strong></span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/170852/6c811937b95acdc934f7c75d0cc3ca29ae5afdb4/original/d-and-d-outrageous.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p><p><br>This will not apply to the following 2023 shows already promoted and advertised as Doogie and Dun. </p><p>July 11 - Kid’s show - Parry Sound Library<br>July 12 - Pancake Bay Provincial Park<br>July 13 - Soo and Thessalon Seniors shows<br>July 18 - afternoon Driftwood Provincial Park<br>July 18 - evening - Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park<br>July 20 - Grundy Lake Provincial Park<br>July 21 - Killbear Provincial Park<br>July 27 - Killarney Provincial Park<br>Aug.1 - Stockey Centre</p><p>Whiskey Jack is celebrating its 45th year and will continue to be managed and booked by Banjodunc Productions. </p><p><span class="text-big">Whiskey Jack’s library of shows available for bookings include the following:</span></p><p><i>-all private and public performances featuring songs written by and/or released under the names Whiskey Jack and Douglas John Cameron ( lineup for each performance will be customized to match the venue, budget, audience size and purpose of the event) </i></p><p><i>-their touring show, Stories & Songs of Stompin’ Tom (4 piece band)</i></p><p><i>-kid’s show (duo)</i></p><p><br><strong>Highlights! </strong> Whiskey Jack’s band leader, Duncan Fremlin, and music director Douglas John Cameron decided to discard their moniker because it was unpronounceable and forgettable. This decision was made is in anticipation of their newest recording project scheduled for release in the fall of 2023.</p><p style="text-align:center;">For photos, videos and interviews, please contact:<br>Duncan Fremlin, 416-716-3257 <br>www.whiskeyjackmusic.com<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/170852/85fb55565422abde2b86e2d818215947769fcc0c/original/wj-with-james.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/72013502023-05-02T07:42:26-04:002023-06-04T16:26:23-04:00My book and our Stompin' Tom Show are touring together<p>Last week at this time, we were preparing for our sold-out show at the Moonshine Cafe. A few hours after we left the stage, we began to drive east to begin our 4th tour of Eastern Canada.</p><p>Our soundman at the Moonshine show was Brian McCullough, a legend in our industry having produced sound for the Good Brothers and many others for decades. He took my book (My Good Times With Stompin' Tom) home that night and a few days later, he sent me this review: </p><p><strong>"It was an absolutely fantastic read (with my Stompin’ Tom LP’s playing in the background). As I’d said, I was lucky enough to see Tom@OntPlaceForum, but I’d never met him, and your book corrects that! I’d heard some of the stories but you put them in context, and more than any other book, I now feel like I know Tom and understand him better."</strong></p><p>I arrived in the Maritimes last week with the last of my supply, only 40 copies. We're half way through the tour and I'll arrive in Annapolis Royal Nova Scotia with only 5 copies to sell. I released the book in 2019 and after 1100 copies sold, I thought interest had waned. Apparently not.</p><p>More copies are on the way. I will be able to fill all the website orders when I return. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/170852/8661540cf4a7f53738a5408d0fe723354b1c7db8/original/fremlin-ofc-cover.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p><p> </p><p> </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/71783502023-03-25T10:26:13-04:002023-03-27T08:56:58-04:002023 Spring Tour Details<p style="text-align:center;"><strong>Our Spring, 2023 tour looks like this:</strong></p><p> </p><p>April 23 - Moonshine Cafe, Oakville, On</p><p>April 26, Summerside PEI</p><p>April 27, Middleton PEI</p><p>April 28, Charlottetown PEI</p><p>April 29, Guysborough NS</p><p>April 30, Albert County, NB</p><p>May 1 and 2 - Available </p><p>May 3, Annapolis Valley, NS</p><p>May 4, Chester, NS</p><p>May 5, Sackville, NB</p><p>May 6, Great Village, NS</p><p>May 7, Liverpool NS<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/170852/ed85dc508fb8ef87d078489b440e4cbf02f034ec/original/2021-poster-revised.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/71568302023-02-19T11:53:16-05:002023-03-25T10:44:17-04:00Two days off on our East Coast Tour...unacceptable<div class="video-container size_xl justify_center" style=""><iframe data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="AuwcvrQr3hU" data-video-thumb-url="" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/AuwcvrQr3hU?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></div>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/71542682023-02-15T10:02:00-05:002023-02-15T13:27:26-05:00Hurricane be damned....Stompin' Tom music must be played in Eastern Canada<p>We're returning to Eastern Canada to finish the tour that was rudely interrupted by Hurricane Fiona. April 26 to May 7, 2023. <a class="no-pjax" href="https://youtu.be/i-GXaIAJewo" data-link-type="url">Click here</a> for the inside scoop!</p><p>We're coming…..weather be damned!</p><p> </p><p>Duncan, Douglas, Billy and Rhéo</p><p> </p><p> </p>2:38Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/71456312023-01-30T07:48:35-05:002023-01-30T07:48:35-05:00Beginning our 9th year....Wow. <p>Since Whiskey Jack’s Duncan Fremlin walked into Stompin’ Tom’s furnace room the spring of 1990 and shook Tom’s hand for the first time, he didn’t realize the ensuing decades of escapades would become the stuff of legend and supply him with enough tales and adventures to feed one of the longest running shows on the Canadian music landscape, Stories & Songs of Stompin’ Tom. </p>
<p>Now in its 9th year, Duncan and his cast of characters offer up a soundtrack and a story board that will titillate and entertain Canadians from all walks of life. Sharing a stage with Tom for all those years is evident in this fast moving and humour laced 2 hours. Tom even drops in throughout the show just to make sure everyone is “havin’ a good time. That’s the main ‘ting”. </p>
<p>When he said yes to joining Tom’s musical family, Duncan didn’t know he was volunteering for every job imaginable - banjo player, singer, back-up band, guardian of the plywood, body guard, drinking buddy, tour manager, straight man, stooge and more. </p>
<p>Along with many personal backstage stories, this show features all the hits -The Hockey Song - Bud The Spud - Sudbury Saturday Night - performed by the top musicians in the country. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/ed85dc508fb8ef87d078489b440e4cbf02f034ec/original/2021-poster-revised.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>2:25Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/71274642022-12-23T08:12:49-05:002023-01-04T11:46:23-05:00Hottest new act coming to Ontario - Over The Moon Band<p><span class="font_large">Whiskey Jack alumni (from the 1980's), Craig Bignell began to appear on my feeds a few months ago. Along side his wife and music partner, Suzanne Leveque, they call themselves <a contents="Over The Moon" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.overthemoonband.com">Over The Moon</a>. The first time I really sat up and took notice was when they began to post photos of their tours of China and Great Britain. "Holy shit" I said to myself.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Then new recordings, Juno nominations and more began to appear.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So, to cut to the chase, in my role as a producer of shows (Banjodunc Productions), I reached out to them a few weeks ago and asked if they were coming east. A few weeks after that, I'm happy to report the answer is "yes".</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I'm thrilled to welcome them to Toronto and Oakville. I'm also very pleased that my duo, Doogie and Dun will be the opening act. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Details to follow. </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="c4jAvvu9oN4" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/c4jAvvu9oN4/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/c4jAvvu9oN4?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/71269982022-12-22T13:25:48-05:002022-12-23T07:51:23-05:00Rhymes and Good Times Audiobook Podcast Episode 120:44Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/71067032022-11-20T11:51:50-05:002022-12-22T13:18:12-05:00Salute to our affection for the town of Tillsonburg<p>Whiskey Jack often consults with the Official Stompin’ Tom Instruction Manual, a special document that lists ideas on how to thank the people who make our career possible…the fans.. Tom was the master and had much to teach us. </p>
<p>Idea # 1: Express your appreciation to the fans who support you by writing them a song. </p>
<p>Today we salute the fine people of Tillsonburg with this new song written by Douglas John Cameron. </p>
<p>We hope you enjoy the official video of <a contents="The Most Famous Town in the World" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/LR5tQrIKQk8">The Most Famous Town in the World</a>. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/58f0fb19317fc91fc65c582b726890c358fcf62d/original/thumbnail.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Until next time...."The Whiskey Jack" (as Tom so affectionately called us)</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/70685152022-09-28T17:49:14-04:002022-10-26T02:04:41-04:00Videos of Whiskey Jack's shortened, yet Successful 2022 Tour of Eastern Canada<p>We wanted to stay in the Maritimes and play much more music but Fiona has other plans. In spite of her unwelcoming behaviour, we're determined to return in the spring of 2023 to finish what we started. </p>
<p>In the meantime, as we arrived in each of the towns we visited, Douglas John Cameron pulled out his camera and captured the flavours of the region. What's not to like? Fall in Eastern Canada, hurricanes aside, is a very special place.</p>
<p>First up, Port Hawkesbury Cape Breton Island. It began a few days before we arrived. Local DJ, Scotty O from 101.5FM, The Hawk called and interviewed Duncan, live on air. That certainly helped draw a pretty terrific crowd. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="MP8PQmGM4lE" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/MP8PQmGM4lE/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/MP8PQmGM4lE?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Next up, an even larger Monday crowd propelled the band to a very high level. Duncan got to meet fellow author (Stompin' Tom, The Myth and The Man), Charlie Rhindress. Next time you're in Amherst, make sure you dine at Brittany's. Very good!</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cOGS-MsP-qk" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>
<p>Early on Tuesday, we hit the road and ended up in Tatamagouche. Best name for a town in Nova Scotia. Our great friend Cindy Church lives nearby and we had a great time hanging with her. Marshall Feit at the Grace Jollymore Joyce Arts Centre was a most gracious host. We will return. </p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/L_lnu5yFcIU" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The next day, a 75 minute ferry ride across the Northumberland Straight brought us to PEI where a sold out crowd in Montague offered a warm and enthusiastic welcome. Fiona however was building up steam and the next morning, the band scooted back to their home digs.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/SmAnx-GI6HQ" title="YouTube video player" width="560"></iframe></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/70483402022-08-29T07:56:33-04:002022-09-28T09:24:48-04:00A Canadian theatre is offering a "Pay What You Can" on their website<p>A theatre in Eastern Canada is promoting the following: <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/58849d780e67023643e676636af9f064a1ee6055/original/pay-what-you-want.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_right border_none" alt="" /></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><em>"This year, we’ve begun offering a “pay-what-you-can” option reserved for those who are experiencing financial limitations. If money is keeping you from having cultural experiences, we want to make sure our space is still accessible. Art and music improves our lives and we believe everyone should have access! On our ticketing website you will see an option for pay-what-you-can. Should you be experiencing financial struggles, we encourage you to use the option. For those who are financial secure, all revenue generated by this theatre goes to paying artists, promoting cultural health, and creative program to our community and its guests year round!"</em></span></p>
<p>I like it! </p>
<p>There was a day not that long ago when most, if not all shows were financially accessible to the majority of the population.</p>
<p>On November 4, 2022, I'm producing a Canadian Country Music Legend show at the Redwood Theatre in Toronto. Mmmm...should I offer this?</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/70367772022-08-12T15:56:26-04:002022-08-19T05:22:17-04:00A New Adventure Begins at Banjodunc Productions<p>Canadian Country Music Legends debuted in Wingham Ontario in June, 2022. Since then, more shows have been<br>booked and more friendships formed. Everything about this show fits like a glove. It's going places.</p>
<p>The idea was born over a fun and playful lunch with comedy great, Gordie Tapp. I picked him up at his condo one morning and discovered that his body was a bit beaten up but his mind was as crafty and sharp as ever. After a couple of very fun hours, I dropped him off and thought, "what a sad day when this comedy genius dies and is long forgotten".<br>I pledged to myself this would not happen. </p>
<p>The following years offered many opportunities for Whiskey Jack to share the stage with performers who would<br>themselves someday be recognized as legends. </p>
<p>Here we are in 2022, and with Whiskey Jack celebrating 45 years as a musical force in the Canadian country music<br>community, the time was right. A bit of reminiscing was in order. If there’s one thing Covid gave us, it was time to<br>reminisce.</p>
<p>We're coming to Toronto, Parry Sound and Alliston in November, 2022. Press release will be published soon.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/1cfcf19500c8a39eb15ac1ed472178e10ba83516/original/ccml-facebook-nodate.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/70067562022-07-03T08:51:08-04:002022-08-03T03:08:52-04:00Win a copy of Duncan's book<p>While on the road in 1993 with Stompin' Tom Connors, Whiskey Jack left the tour for a night on the town in Quebec City. We didn't invite Tom to join us. That did not go over well. </p>
<p>Fill in the speech bubbles - Best entry wins a copy of my book. Contest closes July 10, 2022.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/cfd513ff5ef668b23ab2e3da4ae04aba28375f2b/original/hands-against-the-wall-blank-bubble.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/69833402022-05-31T08:15:33-04:002022-05-31T08:15:33-04:00Video Playlist - Canadian Country Music Legends Show <p>After recently spending some very fun quality time visiting with the special guests featured on our Wingham Legends Show, Banjodunc Productions has produced a few videos to highlight some of their stories. <a contents="The playlist can be found here. " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4dxTatyPi6C3haC6WI7nmdhvdiORzhkc">The Playlist can be found here</a>. </p>
<p><a contents="Marie Bottrell" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/marie.bottrell">Marie Bottrell</a> talks about the loneliness that accompanied her many years on the road. She was a pioneer in the industry, the youngest woman to lead, manage and tour extensively with a 5 piece band. "Trying to get payment from the bar owners as the worst". </p>
<p><a contents="Brian and Susie Good" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/briansusie.good">Brian and Susie Good</a> have their own wonderful stories. Brian's golf game with Tommy Hunter (a "commanding" figure) and Gordon Lightfoot (a "demanding" task master) was a highlight. Susie's pedigree learning the business from her dad, Max Yetman, leader of Canada's first bluegrass band, The York County Boys was another.</p>
<p>Next up, Billie MacInnis as Stompin' Tom's fiddler (from PEI no less), Tim Hadley (Stompin' Tom's bass player) and Douglas John Cameron (a purveyor of songs by all of the legends, most notably Hank Snow).</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/fdda2786ed63d90ef6435a22821dea0b7da3b510/original/ccml-facebook.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p> </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/69721192022-05-20T08:26:04-04:002022-05-20T10:54:35-04:00Duncan Enters The Twilight Zone at a Pre-Juno Awards Party<p>For fans of Stompin' Tom Connors and country music in general, the Juno Awards have been a pebble in our shoe. It began when Tom unceremoniously tossed his Juno's into a cardboard box, called a taxi and instructed the driver to drop them at the Juno office, posthaste. My attendance at Anthem Entertainment's Pre-Juno Awards party at their head office was no exception. That's Tom's record label in case you were wondering.</p>
<p>With a bounce in my step, feeling pretty cocky as the producer of Whiskey Jack Presents Stories and Songs of Stompin' Tom, I take the elevator to the 29th floor on Brenmer Blvd, a huge tower, steps from the Skydome (I'll never use the corporate name), and walk up to the young greeter. "Like, last name please" she so happily asked me (everyone was exceptionally happy at this party). "Like, Fremlin" I announce. </p>
<p>She poured over the invitation list, flipping pages as I stood waiting...."like first name?". (The youngsters these days preface every sentence with "like"?) </p>
<p>"Like, Duncan".</p>
<p>She continued to turn pages looking for my name.</p>
<p>"Helen invited me herself" I pleaded. (Helen being the big cheese at Anthem).</p>
<p>"Like, no worries. Like, I'll find it. Like, go in and enjoy yourself". </p>
<p>I squeezed past a few suits who were blocking the hallway, "like excuse me" I announced, and walked in the room. </p>
<p>I couldn't help but admire the stage on my right. A band was all all set up with large amps, mic stands and more. I wished it was my stage. I looked up and there she was, Helen Murphy herself, talking to even more suits. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/2a2a870c5e470fd7423010e75e00db1d6d138257/original/dwf-helen-murphy.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" /></p>
<p>Everyone in the room stopped, turned to look at me, and thought to themselves, "who the hell is this old guy? I've never seen him before." </p>
<p>Had I been announced like at a Royal gala, there would have been a collective, "never heard of him". </p>
<p>Helen glanced my way, walked over, shook my hand and at this moment, Rod Serling spoke into my ear, "you are about to enter a different dimension...where the earth begins to rotate at twice it's normal speed...you are entering, The Twilight Zone". </p>
<p>That's what happens at these meet-and-greet events. I knew this was happening because Helen's left eye was looking my way, but the other was elsewhere, scanning the room. My time with Helen would be short. So I began to talk and didn't stop until she left my side.</p>
<p>"Helen, Duncan Fremlin, Whiskey Jack. I came here for 2 reasons. I wanted to meet you in person and I was hoping to see a real Juno Award. This being my band's 45th year and no Juno Award in our spacious trophy case, we've declared 2022 to be "Our Dream of a Juno Is Dead Tour".</p>
<p>"Cute" she replied.</p>
<p>I also scanned the room continuously during our talk. In my case, I was looking for a Juno statuette (is that what it's called?)</p>
<p>"Where do you keep them" I asked again.</p>
<p>"There are none here." she replied.</p>
<p>"Where's Tom Jr." I asked. "I was hoping to see him also".</p>
<p>"No. Not this time".</p>
<p>"How about Andy Hawke?" said I. "He's the fellow I speak to most often when I call here".</p>
<p>She yelled above the din and invited Andy to join us.</p>
<p>The earth continued to spin quickly so I immediately asked for a photo. Andy took my camera and snapped one of me and Helen. I quickly handed Helen my camera (everything was done quickly) and asked her to shoot me and Andy . Sadly, it did not turn out well. "I'm new at this" was her explanation. </p>
<p>I respectfully took my leave and began to "work the room".</p>
<p>My drink of choice was water. I was offered a can of the new RUSH beer (yes, a beer named after a rock band) but at 5.5%, I thought not. </p>
<p>I stopped to view the room from a distance when this fellow came up to me and asked "should I know you? You look like a big star" (is my hat a ticket to fame?). I shook his hand, told him my name (he had that "never heard of him" look on his face) and asked who he was. As turns out, he really is a big star at Anthem's Nashville office.</p>
<p>Gilles Godard and Whiskey Jack's Douglas John Cameron have much in common...both nominated 2x for Juno's - neither won. Losing a Juno has become a badge of honour in Whiskey Jack's world. Gilles is a celebrated songwriter. In the 1980's he was nominated for Juno's with Colleen Peterson and Eddy Eastman. </p>
<p>Under different circumstances, Gille and I would have gabbed for an hour. We were both touring in the 1980's and knew many of the same people. </p>
<p>Fast forward to my early departure, moments before a band began to play forgettable songs, I enjoyed a 45 second encounter in the elevator with a young, very well dressed couple, who were obviously people of importance, on their way somewhere. </p>
<p>"Are you going to the Juno's? the beautiful lady asked.</p>
<p>"No" said I. And again, with 45 seconds at my disposal, I started talking..."Dream of a Juno Dead...." and all that. I was vomiting bullshit.</p>
<p>The three of us got off the elevator, they took off at a very fast pace, I kept up as best I could...continued to vomit bullshit about my Legends show and "Whiskey Jack lost more Juno's" than almost anyone". I finally gave up and slowed to a more manageable pace. They left the building, didn't look back, and approached a black limousine with a driver waiting with the back door open. </p>
<p>"Mmmm" I thought to myself. "They must be important". </p>
<p>Like everyone else at the party, I had no idea who they were. Even if I had, I would have pretended that I didn't. That's how petty I can be. </p>
<p>I hope I thanked Helen properly. I did have a grand time and enjoyed myself very much.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/69628472022-05-03T17:22:14-04:002022-05-16T17:38:34-04:00Canadian Country Music Legends Show Coming to Wingham Ontario<p style="text-align: center;"><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="KMrT6YPTygA" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/KMrT6YPTygA/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/KMrT6YPTygA?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe>Media information / For immediate release <br>PLEASE ADD TO EVENT LISTINGS </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font_large">HURON WAVES MUSIC FESTIVAL &</span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font_large"> <br>Banjodunc Productions </span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">present </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font_xl"><strong>CANADIAN COUNTRY MUSIC LEGENDS SHOW </strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">STARRING <strong>WHISKEY JACK </strong>with guests, <strong>MARIE BOTTRELL & BRIAN GOOD (THE GOOD BROTHERS) WITH<br><br>SUSIE GOOD </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Sunday, June 12, 2022, 3:00 PM at the Wingham Town Hall Theatre, 274 Josephine St., Wingham, On </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Tickets available online at www.WhiskeyJackMusic.com </p>
<p>Canadian country music began (some say in Wingham) when Wilf Carter picked up his guitar and began to sing in 100<br><br>years ago! Wilf and the singers that followed inspired generations of country music stars, all roads leading to the<br><br>performers presenting this show.</p>
<p>++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ </p>
<p><strong>FULL DETAILS </strong></p>
<p>Who: Whiskey Jack, Brian Good from the Good Brothers, Marie Bottrell & Douglas John Cameron. </p>
<p><br>What: Canadian Country Music Legends — present day legends performing songs and telling personal anecdotes of those who inspired them. “Legends beget heroes. Heroes beget legends”. </p>
<p><br>When: Sunday, June 12, 2022, 3.00 p.m. </p>
<p><br>Where: Wingham Town Hall Theatre, 274 Josephine St., Wingham, On </p>
<p><br>How much: $35.00 on line at www.huronwavesfestival.ca or www.whiskeyjackmusic.com </p>
<p>++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++ </p>
<p><strong>BACK STORY </strong></p>
<p><br><span class="font_large">Brian Good from The Good Brothers will walk on stage with 7 Juno Awards and a<br><br>lifetime of memories about those who inspired him. He’s joined by his wife Susie as<br><br>they share songs by his pal, Gordon Lightfoot and others. Marie Bottrell, 8 time Juno<br><br>nominee, two time Country Music Association Female Vocalist of the year and<br><br>Country Music Hall of Fame Inductee is awash in credentials elevating her to star<br><br>status. Marie will sing songs by Anne Murray and more. The support team, now in<br><br>their 45th year, stars of the CBC’s Tommy Hunter Show and Stompin’ Tom’s show, will<br><br>be the 5-piece band, Whiskey Jack. Their impressive musical chops will be on full<br><br>display throughout the show.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"> <br>All of these artists are Canadian country music royalty, each with hit records and<br><br>music awards from their multiple decades long careers. </span></p>
<p><br><span class="font_large">And, yes, you will hear your favourite songs by Gordon Lightfoot, Anne Murray, Don<br><br>Messer, Gordie Tapp, Wilf Carter, Stompin’ Tom Connors, Tommy Hunter, Al Cherny,<br><br>Ian and Sylvia and more. </span></p>
<p><br><span class="font_large">For Duncan Fremlin, Whiskey Jack’s leader, and the others, this show — hopefully<br><br>the forerunner of more to come across Canada — is far more than a nostalgic trip.<br><br>“Having contemporary all stars present this show is a reminder of how universal our<br><br>music still is,” he says. “And playing in Wingham, the home of the CKNX Barn-dance,<br><br>makes this particularly special for us — and for our audience? We guarantee goose<br><br>bumps.” </span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><br><span class="font_large">As the show’s musical director, Fremlin is also a raconteur with a wealth of fun and personal stories to share — some of them are in his recently published book, My Good Times with Stompin’ Tom. </span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><br> —30— </p>
<p><span class="font_regular">Websites: <br>www.huronwavesmusicfestival.ca <br>www.whiskeyjackmusic.com </span></p>
<p><span class="font_regular">Video links: <br>https://youtu.be/WXV59ZwbAH0 <br>https://youtu.be/r93v6wqG17Q <br>https://youtu.be/ENy7xGzFKjw </span></p>
<p><span class="font_regular">Further information, interview arrangements, media invitations, and high-res photographs, please contact: <br>Duncan Fremlin (416) 716-3257 </span></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/8ddad820cf424144c101e1e49849c17af23ef026/original/ccml-square.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/69447712022-04-09T13:41:25-04:002022-05-11T15:21:34-04:00Covid Strikes Down Whiskey Jack's April 10 show at the Redwood Theatre<p>Sadly, the Whiskey Jack show at the Redwood Theatre scheduled for tomorrow, Sunday April 10, 2022 has to be postponed. The band's leader Duncan Fremlin (me) tested positive for Covid this morning. If you have purchased tickets, thank you! Maria at the theatre has likely contacted you about a refund. </p>
<p>I'm quite fine. Very mild symptoms. Thanks for asking. </p>
<p>There is a bright side to this. We can now focus on organizing our 45th anniversary show at the Redwood in the fall. We'll start putting that together now. Maria suggested a "Whiskey Jack Festival". That's not exactly what I had in mind but that's likely what the show will look like. In our 45 illustrious years, we've performed and become friends with many of Canada's top musicians. We're optimistic many of them will accept an invitation to join us at this show and sing some songs with the band. We'll be setting a date soon. </p>
<p>We hope to see you then. In the meantime, we have much to be grateful for, including your support of live music</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/69327672022-03-26T14:37:45-04:002022-03-26T14:51:15-04:00New Whiskey Jack Show debuts June 12 in Wingham with guests!<p><span class="font_large">In 2013, Duncan Fremlin received a call from John Miller (on the left), artistic director at Stratford Summer Music. "Would you bring your Stompin' Tom show to my festival?" John asked. Thus was born <em>Whiskey Jack Presents Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom. </em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In 2022, John has done it again. At this lunch last Friday, John invited Duncan and Whiskey Jack to debut their new touring show, Legends of Canadian Country Music at his new festival, <a contents="Huron Waves Music Festival" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://huronwavesmusicfestival.ca/">Huron Waves Music Festival</a>. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/eebf6eeec8ac76cebbde14e6e0a1b71611c3c759/original/john-miller-dwf.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_medium" alt="" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The date is June 12, 2022 and the location is home of another legend, the CKNX Barn Dance, Wingham Ontario. Joining Whiskey Jack for this extravaganza will be Brian Good from The Good Brothers and a long time member of the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, Marie Bottrell. The musical history on the stage for this show turns it into an afternoon of "Legends honouring Legends". </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Given Whiskey Jack's years with the CBC (most notably The Tommy Hunter Show) and as Stompin' Tom's touring band, these hardened road warriors and their guests are well suited to represent the generation that was inspired by ....Gordon Lightfoot, Ian Tyson, Anne Murray, Gordie Tapp, Wilf Carter, Don Messer, The Good Brothers, Prairie Oyster and more. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">All multiple award winners in their field, seasoned veterans Brian Good, his wife Susie and Marie Bottrell bring their own tall tales and memorable songs to the stage.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">More details will be available real soon.</span></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/69296972022-03-23T08:14:13-04:002022-03-26T14:37:20-04:002019 Stompin' Tom Birthday Celebration with guests Gordon Lightfoot, Russell deCarle and more<p>Our <a contents="Youtube Channel" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.youtube.com/banjodunc" style="">Youtube Channel</a> has now reached over 1400 Subscribers. Thank you! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/5a96c44459133aef14b117323375bdabe23f317f/original/murray-robbie-dwf.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_none" alt="" /></p>
<p>We hope you enjoy Part 3 of our series featuring highlights from our 2019 Stompin' Tom Birthday celebration. The show was aired live on Robbie Lane's show on Zoomer Radio - AM 740 and 96.7 FM. </p>
<p>Murray Foster, founding member of Moxy Fruvous and bass player for Great Big Sea returned in 2019 to sing <a contents="The Bug Song" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/v-hAHQYWFaI">The Bug Song</a>, another of Tom's clever and poetic songs. Tom's word play is again featured. Great fun!</p>
<p>Over the next few weeks, we will be presenting 3 more videos in this series. Russell deCarle's very funky version of Gumboot Cloggeroo is not to be missed. Then, in Video #5, The Good Brothers will sing a Tom favourite, Don Valley Jail.</p>
<p>The final video of the series will be one of those "I wish I was there" performances. Gordon Lightfoot joins Whiskey Jack and The Good Brothers to sing Alberta Bound. </p>
<p>As the song ends, I lean over and ask Gordon if he'd stick around and help us close the show (as we always do) with our version of The Hockey Song. He replies "sure". </p>
<p>Subscribe to our channel and we'll notify you when this clip is uploaded for all to enjoy.</p>
<p> </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/69246122022-03-17T08:20:27-04:002022-03-17T08:20:27-04:00Follow up to Copyright Infringement Story<p>I reported a few days ago that there are a number (5 at last count) of knock-offs of my book (My Good Times With Stompin' Tom) available for sale on Amazon. Each is being sold with a different cover, title and author. This is a clear copyright infringement. </p>
<p>I've been spending some time looking into the what, how, where, when and so on. </p>
<p><a contents="This is what I've learned to date. " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/tAghJ7K575M">This is what I've learned to date. </a></p>
<p>Thank you for your interest. If you would spread the word on your social media sites, you might prevent an unsuspecting fan or reader from buying a book they already own. I've seen ads for these knock-offs, all of them have had black and white covers. Beware. The cover of my book is full colour with a photo of me and Tom. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/8661540cf4a7f53738a5408d0fe723354b1c7db8/original/fremlin-ofc-cover.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_none" alt="" /></p>
<p>Thank you. </p>
<p>Duncan</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/69015542022-02-18T17:50:12-05:002022-03-31T05:27:15-04:00Join us in "the county" for our first visit to Sam Grosso's new theatre, "Sam's Place"<p>How about visiting "the county" in April? Sam Grosso, the former owner of the Cadillac Lounge has just opened a new theatre in Prince Edward County. It's called "<a contents="Sam's Place" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/samsplacePEC" style="">Sam's Place</a>". </p>
<p>As with all of his stages, it'll be class all the way. Great sound, great stage, great shows. This is where Whiskey Jack will begin celebrating their 45th year in this crazy business! Tickets are on sale now. If you want to make this part of a weekend in the county, Sam has some ideas on where you can find accommodation. For example,</p>
<p><strong><em>"We have secured a great rate at the Ramada Hotel </em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>11 Bay Bridge Road onky 15 minutes away from Sam's Place </em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Good morning, Sam </em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>I would certainly appreciate you sending your guests my way, thank you! </em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>The rate you can offer your guests for the two dates CAD$112.00 (excl. taxes) per night and this includes Complimentary Breakfast, Parking and Wifi. </em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Please share the following booking information for April 16th and April 23rd 2022. </em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>To make reservations: </em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Call: 613.968.3411 Ext. 0 </em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Or </em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Email: Reservations@ramadabelleville.com </em></strong></p>
<p><strong><em>Please reference your preference Check in and Check Out Date and the Group Name “Vintage Car Wine Tours” – Reservations must be received no later than 7 days prior to event date and should cancellation be necessary, this must be done no later than 72 hours prior to the arrival date."</em></strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>Also, you can call: </em></p>
<p><em>Empire Inn and Suites - 3 stars 6 Stanley Street, Prince Edward, ON K0K1G0 (844-209-1714)</em></p>
<p><em>The Royal Hotel - 613 961 2600 - info@theroyalhotel.ca - 247 Picton Main Street Picton, Ontario K0K 2T0</em></p>
<p><em>Holiday Inn Express - 291 North Front Street, Belleville, ON, K8P 3C3</em></p>
<p> </p>
<p><em><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/5689454a2d9bb0e2f02060aa8f288ed5c28680ee/original/sam-poster-billy-45.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></em></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/68887712022-02-04T13:20:06-05:002022-03-23T07:20:23-04:00"Canada is the crown jewel that sits on the top of the planet"? <p><strong>"Canada is the crown jewel that sits on the top of the planet as an eternal beacon forever flashing it's hope throughout the world." </strong> A quote from Stompin' Tom's book, Before The Fame. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/d33bcbed208f1305b835c24e248b3687eef383a3/original/before-the-fame-book-cover1.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_medium" alt="" /></p>
<p>It looks to me like the truckers in Ottawa are trying to knock us off our perch!</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/68836362022-01-30T09:38:08-05:002022-01-30T09:38:08-05:00Hockey and Stompin' Tom go together<p>We invite you to check out a new show on Youtube, <a contents='"Chuck and Dunc, blah blah blah"' data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/BgBFlPdYfCs">"Chuck and Dunc, blah blah blah"</a>! Guaranteed to take your mind off all that intrudes on your well being!</p>
<p>Broadcasting legend, author, painter and "nonagenarian" Brian McFarlane sits down with me and my pal Charlie Rhindress for an hour of reminiscing and fun. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/ee741e5fcd82c70f458c51ee7b19541d18a75579/original/chuck-and-dunc-final-title-card.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/68514332021-12-25T09:33:25-05:002022-03-03T13:45:54-05:00Whiskey Jack's Year End Newsletter...accompanied by a big sigh<p>It's been awhile since we've been in touch with you. That's not to say we've been hibernating. We continue to write, produce and promote our music each day. For example.... </p>
<p>Our show continues to generate attention from the industry. Just before Christmas, we received some nice press from <a contents="Fyi Music News" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.fyimusicnews.ca/articles/2021/12/23/music-news-digest-dec-23-2021">Fyi Music News</a>.</p>
<p>The audience for <a contents="Our Youtube Channel" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.youtube.com/banjodunc">Our Youtube Channel</a> continues to grow. We like to think it's because it contains a lot of entertaining videos, one of which has well over 800,000 views. </p>
<p>Our latest video is an <a contents="interview with banjo legend" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/3XdhZ2GZOVA">interview with banjo legend</a> (and Duncan's mentor), Denis Lepage. Denis was instrumental in the creation of the Bluegrass Division of Boot Records, the independent label that was formed by Stompin' Tom Connors back in the 1970's. It's an inspiring story on many fronts. We invite you to check it out. </p>
<p>During the short period we were allowed to play music in front of people in 2021, we performed at The Stockey Centre in Parry Sound, Gibson Centre in Alliston, The Redwood Theatre in Toronto and more. We even streamed online for the first time since 2015. We're optimistic the momentum will continue in 2022. Former Cadillac Lounge owner and our pal, Sam Grosso, has relocated his energies and love for live music to The County (Prince Edward that is) east of the city. His new theatre, <a contents="Sam's Place" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/samsplacePEC">Sam's Place</a>, will host Whiskey Jack's 45th anniversary celebration (with some highlights of our Stompin' Tom show thrown in for good measure). April 16, 2022 and tickets are available now. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/b0e35d39d253013cc7c0f864e3032f4f79a490f7/original/version-1-s-s-w-billymacinnis.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Soon we'll be releasing a video highlighting a song Douglas and Duncan co-wrote with Stompin' Tom and Gate Lepine, Tom's best pal. It's a blues number called Two Days From Regina. More songs from this vault will be produced over the next few months. Check out our new website for updates. </p>
<p>So, on behalf of Doogie and Dun and Whiskey Jack (and our Stompin' Tom show), we wish you all a healthy holiday season. </p>
<p>Very warm regards from Duncan, Douglas, Eric, Billy and Teddy </p>
<p>(Banjodunc Productions)</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/68353992021-12-09T16:53:17-05:002022-04-24T08:07:47-04:00Whiskey Jack's 45th Year begins January 1, 2022<p>Banjodunc Productions announce that 2022 will begin Whiskey Jack's 45th year playing their unique brand of Canadian country music. It is also their 8th year touring with "Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom". This year-long tour needs a name.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/0ef12c715e0ebaa2c3bebd463049249eef4a67f9/original/banjodunc-youtube-banner.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/68043032021-11-12T07:29:37-05:002023-01-04T11:46:23-05:00Streaming show offering shades of Stompin' Tom and more<p>Whiskey Jack's "other" musical entity is Doogie and Dun (aka Douglas John Cameron and Duncan Fremlin). These two giants (5 feet, 7 and one half inches) in the Canadian music community are the voices of our Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom Show.</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/30bdc38e1afc370b48f1a3488c874b4e919b4c6b/original/screenshot.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_medium" alt="" /></p>
<p>On November 28, 2021 at 2:00 PM, they will be streaming an afternoon of songs from their personal, Christmas and Stompin' Tom catalogues. This will be filmed at The Redwood Theatre, an historic Toronto vaudeville palace built in the 1920's. The setting couldn't be better.</p>
<p>We'll welcome a small studio audience of invited guests but the general public can enjoy the show from their big screen TV or their computer. <a contents="Click here for tickets." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.theredwoodtheatre.com/event-details/doogie-dun-live-stream" style="">Click here for tickets.</a></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/67597052021-11-10T17:08:03-05:002022-01-26T07:30:11-05:00Anatomy of a Successful Live Show<p>If you’re hesitant about hosting a live indoor show at your venue, please consider the following. </p>
<p>Those of us in the entertainment industry live for that “special night” when the audience leaves the theatre smiling and with love in their hearts. We experienced a night just like that at the Gibson Centre in Alliston Ontario on <a contents="September 23, 2021" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/sEiyoweU6eU">September 23, 2021</a>. It was a "first since Covid" for both of us. </p>
<p>Whiskey Jack’s collaboration with Jennifer Fortin and the Gibson Centre was a template for indoor live music moving forward. Good planning and experienced execution were the necessary ingredients. Judging by the attendance and the feedback, the audience agrees with us. </p>
<p>One of our fans, Nicholas, wrote: “I decided to go last minute and the show blew me away. I was not sure what I was expecting but it blew my expectations out of the water. I can’t wait to do it again”. </p>
<p>Executive Director Jennifer Fortin wrote: “EVERYONE that I spoke to was thrilled with the performance and said how good it made them feel. I will share our success with anyone who will listen.” </p>
<p>Details: The audience bought tickets online where the protocols were clearly stated. Each group, regardless of the size, had their chairs (and tables in some cases) set up before they arrived. All who entered the theatre provided proof (soon with a passport) that they were double vaccinated. Masks were worn at all times by everyone, except when seated, spaced appropriately, and on the stage, also spaced appropriately. </p>
<p>If you like, Jennifer and I are both available to share our experiences, both from the presenter’s perspective, and the entertainer’s. </p>
<p>Whiskey Jack Presents Stories & Songs of Stompin’ Tom is open for business and booking shows from Ontario to Eastern Canada. </p>
<p> </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/66632222021-06-18T08:44:27-04:002022-04-21T05:34:44-04:00Stompin' Tom Goes Global and Beyond<p><span class="font_large">As a lifetime "radio freak", spending countless hours as a young boy, hiding under the covers, searching for obscure stations in the middle of the night, listening for hours on my little (and quite shitty) transistor radio, I'm beyond thrilled and honoured to be invited to take part in a new "Stompin' Tom Channel" on Sirius/XM. It's in the works right this minute.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><em>On Monday, SiriusXM Canada’s Director of Music Programming, Jeff Leake and I will talk about all things Stompin' Tom. If I don't mumble my words and spit out gibberish, some of it might actually be included in the programming. </em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I've been a subscriber to Sirius/XM from almost it's inception. I listen to something every day. Nancy Sinatra's weekly show on Siriusly Sinatra and Willie's Roadhouse are on my "favourites" list. However, the best programming might be the specialty channels that appear from time to time...Dylan, Springsteen, BJ Thomas, Billy Joel, Carly Simon, Fleetwood Mac and on and on. This makes for very interesting, entertaining and personal radio. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And now, there will be a Stompin' Tom channel!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">This special station is being produced in conjunction with a new release coming from Tom's record label, Anthem Entertainment. They recently announced that “Unreleased Songs From The Vault Collection Vol 4: Let’s Smile Again” will be available on June 25, 2021. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Imagine - <strong>Stompin' Tom music All The Time <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/0c32888afd5fc476fbecfcf410b4ac27a2a87817/original/sxm-logo-pride.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></strong></span></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/66132602021-05-04T06:00:00-04:002022-04-12T06:37:30-04:00Bob McNiven died on this day, one year ago<p>One year ago today, my phone rang, I looked at the screen, and knew immediately what the call was about. I knew it was coming but I still couldn't believe that my best friend and musical collaborator, Bob McNiven, had died from the ravages of ALS. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/d187e355917b524e0caaeb73a8c293ad936d7598/original/bob-duncan.jpeg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>You've probably noticed that Bob hasn't gone away. Neither has his band Whiskey Jack. Bob may not be on stage with us (when those days return) but his music has filled the airwaves. </p>
<p>The night he died, I got to work and assembled some photos and announced the news to Bob's fans with <a contents="This video" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/w8XrsKqtkEc" style="">this video</a>. The song of course is Whiskey Jack's 1981 version of One More Time, Bob's signature tune. This is the definitive version, produced by Chad Irschick at Inception Sound and featuring John Hoffman on Mandolin, Greg Street on bass, yours truly on banjo, Bob on his big Guild guitar, Ken Whiteley on piano, Claude DesJardins on drums (and others who I can't recall). </p>
<p>Then during the holidays, our pal and video editor Douglas John Cameron released a beautiful Christmas tribute to Bob with this video. Many of Bob's friends got together and contributed some very fun video clips for<a contents=" this project" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/2kcsKMMap_M"> this project</a>. </p>
<p>To top it off, another of Bob's great friends, Steve Goldberger, recorded a new and brilliant version of One More Time. My first thought when I heard this was, "this is how Bob would have recorded it in 2021 had he had the chance".</p>
<p>Steve brought in some Canadian musical heavy weights (figuratively speaking) to back him up on this track....wow.....<iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="uUd1VMwvij8" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/uUd1VMwvij8/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/uUd1VMwvij8?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>
<p><em>Produced at the shed studio in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada with help from: </em></p>
<p><em>Jim Casson on drums </em></p>
<p><em>Shane Guse - fiddle & vocals </em></p>
<p><em>Stacey Lee Guse - vocals Ed Ringwald (Pee Wee Charles) - pedal steel guitar </em></p>
<p><em>Paul Chapman - electric guitar </em></p>
<p><em>Steve sings the lead vocal and plays bass, piano & rhythm acoustic guitar on this one.</em></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/66127412021-04-24T11:02:10-04:002023-12-10T11:56:47-05:00The Art of Telling Jokes<p>My friends Murray and Dale, both now late, were great joke tellers. Occasionally, every once in awhile, the joke was funny. Sometimes that didn't matter. They put so much drama into their presentation, that was funny enough.</p>
<p>On our 1993 Kic It Tour with Stompin' Tom and Graham Townsend, we were on stage for all of their shenanigans, including the jokes....all the jokes. </p>
<p>This is Graham sharing a love story with the fans at the Savoy Theatre in Glace Bay, Cape Breton Island. </p>
<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="Crt3kqgTB84" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/Crt3kqgTB84/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Crt3kqgTB84?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/65768032021-03-17T14:51:08-04:002022-05-12T06:35:56-04:00Booking shows into 2022 and the results of a new survey<p>Yes, it's true. We have shows (even a tour) booked for 2022. </p>
<p>The Ontario Arts Council have released the results of a study they sponsored. They were seeking information on what audiences are thinking as we enter our second year of COVID. In short, here are the results: </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>"WolfBrown & OAC Survey - Update </strong></p>
<p><strong>WolfBrown has been working in partnership with the Ontario Arts Council to launch a tracking study of audiences/visitors for Ontario-based arts organizations. The COVID-19 Audience Outlook Monitor is a longitudinal tracking study with multiple waves of data collection; over 85 participating organizations in Ontario have sent out four waves of surveys to samples of their patrons via email and have observed the results through WolfBrown’s online dashboard tool. </strong></p>
<p><strong>Some highlights from the final results: </strong></p>
<p><strong>89% of responders said they expect to attend arts and cultural activities the same as or more than before the pandemic </strong></p>
<p><strong>73% of responders said that online programs will still have a place in their cultural life even after facilities reopen and it's possible to attend live events again </strong></p>
<p><strong>Wearing masks, physical distancing, and quality of ventilation are the 3 most important health-related topics to responders when returning to arts and cultural activities in person."</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p>I don't know what we're supposed to discern from these statistics. The questions are based on "what if" so in some respects, it's not a real survey. I've been basing the future of my shows on the idea that none of us will know what we will feel when we're presented with the opportunity to attend a show with hundreds of other people, in a confined space. If the survey tells us one thing, these thoughts will be on our minds. "Just how good is the ventilation in that old building?" </p>
<p>As a performer standing on stage in front of hundreds of patrons, I'll be asking myself "is this really a safe place to be and is this the right time to do this"?</p>
<p>The future still looks like an unknown abyss.</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/65540982021-02-20T07:56:43-05:002021-09-21T03:32:45-04:00Goin' To The Barndance - on video<p>Whiskey Jack released a fantastic CD in 2019 and we want you to hear it. It's called "Rhymes & Good Times".</p>
<p>Our Youtube channel will be presenting all of the cuts from this CD in video form over the next few weeks. We begin the second show of all of our theatre concerts with this song, played brilliantly by Canada's National Fiddle Champion, Randy Morrison.</p>
<p>Marg Osborne and Charlie Chamberlain sang a short version of "<a contents="Goin' To The Barn Dance" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/Zk907CjfIeE">Goin' To The Barn Dance</a>" on every Don Messer Show (CBC).</p>
<p>Duncan Fremlin on banjo, Douglas John Cameron on guitar, Eric Jackson on bass, Al Cross on drums and John Sheard on piano. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/11932d807aa20881a1e08cacb124e42611ad8b91/original/don-messer-poster.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>This is down-home maritime music at it's best. Recorded at Canterbury Music Company. Produced by Danny Greenspoon</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/65419312021-02-07T10:54:17-05:002022-04-29T06:10:12-04:00Future of Live Music Around The World<p>Good day and good health to everyone. Here at Whiskey Jack headquarters, we continue to “keep the faith” and are planning live music events this spring/summer/fall. However, there’s one little glitch. The business of live music as we knew it is over.</p>
<p>There is no one, neither fans or industry people, who knows what live music will look like in the years to come. So, we ask for your help in shaping this future by offering suggestions on where we can play and how we can do this safely. We invite everyone, fans and presenters alike, to join us in “thinking out of the box”.</p>
<p>Whiskey Jack is well positioned to take the lead in this. We can be a small unit (<a contents="Doogie and Dun" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.doogieanddun.com">Doogie and Dun</a>), a large unit (Whiskey Jack) or an orchestra (Whiskey Jack Presents Stories & Songs of Stompin’ Tom). We can play with a PA (either our own or otherwise) or we can play with no PA. The crowd can be small or enormous. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/f8717893a68b3f178e8a7dd820aa6651f3ba9801/original/djc-wj-red.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>I don’t think we’re going out on a limb to say, in 2021, these performances will be outdoors. In the meantime, we continue to write and record. Our guitarist/vocalist Douglas John Cameron has been a prolific creator of new music most of his life. He’s an ironic fellow, famous for his great song, Three Chord Johnny. The irony lies in his other songs, all with “many chords”. So, to honour his penchant for chords, I wrote and filmed this salute to him. It’s called, of course, <a contents="Too Many Chords" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/YcBIbk4L9g0">Too Many Chords</a>.</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/65361952021-02-01T10:17:11-05:002021-08-24T06:33:37-04:00Lot's of time to reminisce<p>Our annual Stompin' Tom Birthday Celebrations have offered a lot of highlights since we began in 2014 but the one that stands out in my mind was the second in 2015. After our chaotic but highly successful first concert in February 2014, we didn't know what the next one would look like. I knew it had to be big!</p>
<p>I called the Rt. Hon. Adrienne Clarkson and asked if she'd be our guest. She immediately said "yes, I loved Tom". <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/53d27b9b08c558eb170a20eb63c870fd315bf4dd/original/adrienne-duncan-on-deacon-show.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>
<p>I called Sam Grosso at the Cadillac Lounge and asked if we could host it there. He immediately said "yes, I loved Tom".</p>
<p>What followed was a storybook tale involving front page coverage in the Toronto Star, a live interview/performance on Gill Deacon's CBC afternoon show, Here and Now, a film crew recording the first set and an absolutely jam packed crowd....fans were sitting and standing everywhere. </p>
<p>We began the night with this song and each Whiskey Jack band member stood up and described what their Canada looks like. </p>
<p>Guests that night were Douglas John Cameron, Mickey Andrews, Mary McIntyre, Steve Fruitman, Tom Jr., Lena Connors and of course, The Big A, Adrienne Clarkson.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="Tm_DQ2-FA8I" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/Tm_DQ2-FA8I/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Tm_DQ2-FA8I?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/65121012021-01-02T07:51:10-05:002022-04-22T17:05:32-04:00Book World vs Music World<p><span class="font_large">When I published my book, <em>My Good Times With Stompin' Tom</em> in late 2018, I didn't have lofty expectations. I had been selling albums, songs, CD's and merchandise for 40 years so this would simply be another item in my catalogue. I'd make sure the music world, and maybe the literary community knew about it and hopefully I'd sell enough to make it worth the effort. </span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/3ea17ae24132c2baae6d14adc2014c95811b4a50/original/amazon-screen.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I've accomplished that. Two editions and 1000 sales later, the results have been very satisfactory. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Musicians release new music all the time. The challenge is getting anyone to listen to it. I thought it would be the same with my book. I might sell a few but will anyone actually read it? The answer is a resounding "YES". I've received feedback (and it continues to this day) from the beginning so I know it's being read.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Then my pal and editor Jim Baine emailed to say Amazon (Kindle) is offering my book for sale and they've created a Subtitle to promote it on their website. They now call it <em>"My Good Times With Stompin' Tom: Get Back Here You Little Prick"</em> .</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I now know for certain that the book is being read. Someone at Kindle had to read the book to know about the "little prick" reference. It's in the book and if you want to know the context, you'll have to read the book yourself.</span></p>
<p> </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/65035572020-12-19T13:44:25-05:002023-12-10T12:19:56-05:00YouTube Channel - over 1000 subscribers!<p><span class="font_large">We did it! We now have over 1000 (and counting) subscribers to this channel. Thank you all. <iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="cpf7K72hUxA" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/cpf7K72hUxA/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/cpf7K72hUxA?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">YouTube notified me directly with the news. So many to thank...and it's all in this short video. @Stompin' Tom Connors @adrenneclarkson @Gordon Lightfoot @j.p.cormier</span></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/64228092020-12-15T19:58:10-05:002021-11-28T21:38:03-05:00Are you planning to host a live event outdoors in 2021? <p><span class="font_large">You are? Let's talk!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="Nf40B28fLAs" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/Nf40B28fLAs/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Nf40B28fLAs?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Good day from Whiskey Jack headquarters. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">A good percentage of our fans are north of 50, perhaps even 60. They tell us they will not be buying a ticket to a live indoor show until this pandemic is behind us. They don't think this will happen until late 2021 at the earliest. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">However, they very much look forward to supporting our show when presented outdoors, this coming summer, in a safe environment. They haven't dipped into their entertainment budget for a long time so financially, they're ready to go. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Do you have plans to present your programming outdoors in 2021? If yes, we'd like to hear from you. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We understand the rules of doing business in our trade before March of this year no longer apply. We are prepared to work with any programmer/producer/artistic director to make a good idea work to everyone's advantage. That will likely mean different things to different people. We can handle that. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Whiskey Jack has survived and prospered for over 40 years because we adjust with the times. We love that about this business. Let's talk. Reply to this email or call Duncan at 416-716-3257. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Please stay safe. We wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Duncan, Douglas and the band!</span></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/64925952020-12-05T17:50:47-05:002021-10-22T14:06:21-04:00Lots of Love in this video<p><span class="font_large">Friends, family and fans of the late Bob McNiven have come together to sing and have fun with Bob's most popular Christmas song,<a contents=' "Underneath The Christmas Tree"' data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/2kcsKMMap_M"> "Underneath The Christmas Tree"</a>. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Stay for the out-takes. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/04f86e15f32f7e530dcd9cff7be9759abcb2474c/original/bobs-song-everyone.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Featured in this video, in no particular order, are: </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Howard Willett - Bob's right arm, best buddy and musical partner as singer and harmonica player, one half of that great duo, Roots and Branches! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Wayne Derby and Chris Saunders - members of one of Bob's earliest bands, Derby, Saunders and McNiven; </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">John Hoffman - Bob's musical partner on The Tommy Hunter Show, on many recordings/cross country tours and sometimes yin to Bob's yang, </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Conrad Kipping and Tim Hadley, Bob's bandmates and good pals who helped him survive the smoke/beer and debauchery on a few Stompin' Tom Tours; </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Randy Morrison, Eric Jackson, Al Cross, Jen Cook and Jim Bain...Bob's great friends and bandmates who shared the stage with him on his last tours, contributing so very much to his most endearing performances as part of the Whiskey Jack Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom show; </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Rob Whitehead, Whiskey Jack's bass player/singer and very great friend for much of the Arlene Zock/Bob McNiven years; </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Helen Stewart - local singer/songwriter celebrity who joined up with Bob for many classic performances, a vocal union enjoyed by many in Toronto. What a team they were! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Sam Grosso - Much loved proprietor of the sorely missed Cadillac Lounge, location of many Bob McNiven performances...enhanced by the occasional shot of Sam's best tequila! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Bill Heffernan and Dave McManus - These two legendary musicians, storytellers and songwriters were by Bob's side, on stage and off, for much of his last few years. Another of Bob's great collaborations. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Wendell Ferguson - This award winning Canadian country music legend added his guitar stylings to Bob's music often over the years. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Lucas and Caleb Choi-Fremlin and their mom Erin join grandpa Dunc for some good old fashion silliness. Erin was born shortly after Bob joined Whiskey Jack so knew him her entire life. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Barb and Brian - There are many fans of Bob McNiven but few as loyal, devoted and loving as Barb Ross and Brian Crockatt. Bob would always ratchet up a notch when they were in the audience. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">James Gilbert began stalking Whiskey Jack shortly after Bob joined the band in 1980. His affection for Bob, his songs and the Whiskey Jack vocal stylings has endured for over 40 years. He's joined in this video by his barbershop quartet mates, Peter Marchina, Andre Reiter and Rob Siddall. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Steve Goldberger - for many decades, Steve has been the leader and driving force behind the award winning band The Niagara Rhythm Section. Bob hit the QEW many times over the years, sometimes accompanied by Duncan, Arlene Zock or Howard Willett, to perform many songs from his extensive catalogue. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Gary Beechey and Deborah Grover - Whiskey Jack's official photographer Gary Beechey and his very talented partner, award winning Canadian actress Deborah Grover joined forces to add much charm, love and playfulness to this project. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Cathy Ledden and Bill McLean - These two very close friends of the McNiven family have leaped out of their comfort zone to sing a duet version of Bob's song....with much love! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Carol Ledden - This fine lady was by the side of Bob and his family for many years, right up to the end.</span></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/64557062020-10-14T17:03:31-04:002024-03-19T01:51:08-04:00Live Facebook Feed - Two Books about Stompin' Tom books will be featured!<p><span class="font_large">When I published my book (My Good Times With Stompin' Tom) in 2018, the reaction from the obviously educated and highly sophisticated Canadian populous was immediate! The sales were so robust, a second edition was soon ordered. I'm thrilled to report that to this day, the book continues to sell well. Some stores have sold over 30 copies to date. How cool is that? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Recently, another book about Stompin' Tom was published by my friend from Nova Scotia, Charlie Rhindress. It's called Stompin' Tom, The Myth And The Man. Charlie's book is published by a real publisher with a promotional budget, something that excites authors everywhere! In conjunction with his publisher, Charlie is hosting a six part Facebook video presentation featuring guests and readings and music and stories and prizes and so on. I've been invited to be his first guest on October 15, 2020 at 7:00 pm Eastern time. <a contents="Click here to tune in!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/charlie.rhindress" target="_blank">Click here to tune in!</a></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Each show will be a live feed for six consecutive Thursdays. Each week, Charlie will welcome various special guests soon to be announced. Mark it in your calendar. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/f7964b0a15a1c794fc390ca601d5b4df3b590fa5/original/charlie-duncan-ad-001.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Charlie and I met on a live Facebook feed yesterday to discuss and plan this first episode. There will be prizes and free books will be given away. To be kept up to date on all things related to my show, Whiskey Jack Presents Stories and Songs of Stompin' Tom (coming to a stage near you some happy day in the future), reply to this email or join our Facebook page.</span></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/64530362020-10-10T08:57:05-04:002022-05-09T03:11:18-04:00Canadian Songwriter Bill Houston Loves My Book<p><span class="font_large">Throughout the day, when I'm not despairing over the state of the world, a ray of sunshine (metaphorically speaking) sometimes breaks through the clouds and lifts my spirits. The first of the day appeared this morning when I booted up the old computer and read my emails. There was one from my new pal, <a contents="Bill Houston" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/bill.houston.56">Bill Houston</a>.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I've recently connected with Bill, a resident of Thunder Bay. Bill is a Canadian singer songwriter who has been on all of my playlists since there was such a thing. In 1972, I worked at Ontario Place helping set it up for it's grand opening. I had a lot of down-time and as it happens, IMAX was testing it's equipment. I would sneak into the big new theatre and watch the first IMAX movie, <a contents="North of Superior" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/91n-d1ZFjcs">North of Superior</a>. It featured a fantastic song (<a contents="Ojibway Country" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/JUxQ-QbtcPk">Ojibway Country</a>), from the album The King of White Otter Lake. It was written by Bill Houston. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/6facdf41184f728e01fd58a64ad6d488db446815/original/white-otter.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Bill and I are online buddies and have been trading songs and CD's back and forth. I sent him a copy of my book. His review was the ray of sunshine that set the tone for today. </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong><span class="font_large">"I've just finished reading "My Good Times With Stompin' Tom" and found it to be a very good read! The stories of your good times with Canada's most famous icon of Canadian country/folk music are memorable, good-natured and inspiring. "Stompin' Tom veritably leaped off the pages, and at times I even I found myself dodging a bit to get out of his way LOL."</span></strong></p>
<p> </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/64493672020-10-05T10:31:48-04:002021-08-04T03:06:31-04:00Stompin' Tom Books Continue to Sell<p><span class="font_large">When I published my book (My Good Times With Stompin' Tom) in 2018, the reaction from the obviously educated and highly sophisticated Canadian populous was immediate! The sales were so robust, a second edition was soon ordered. I'm thrilled to report that to this day, the book continues to sell well. Some stores have sold over 30 copies to date. How cool is that?</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Recently, another book about Stompin' Tom was published by my friend from Nova Scotia, <a contents="Charlie Rhindress" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://charlierhindress.com/">Charlie Rhindress</a>. It's called <a contents="Stompin' Tom, The Myth And The Man" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://charlierhindress.com/?page_id=464" style="">Stompin' Tom, The Myth And The Man</a>. Charlie's book is published by a real publisher with a promotional budget and all things cool! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In conjunction with his publisher, Charlie is hosting a six part Facebook video presentation featuring guests and readings and music and stories and prizes and so on. I've been invited to be his first guest on October 15, 2020 at 7:00 pm Eastern time. These will be live feeds for six Thursdays featuring various special guests. Mark it in your calendar. </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/f7964b0a15a1c794fc390ca601d5b4df3b590fa5/original/charlie-duncan-ad-001.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Charlie and I met on a<a contents=" live Facebook feed" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://streamyard.com/3z4i44ikzi"> live Facebook feed</a> yesterday to discuss and plan this first episode. There will be prizes and free books will be given away. </span></p>
<p> </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/64331072020-09-14T10:02:05-04:002022-04-17T05:28:03-04:00Bliss of Performing Again<p>Whiskey Jack performed our first and only Stompin' Tom show this past Friday, September 11 in Corbyville Ontario.</p>
<p>Our special guest was honoured member of the Whiskey Jack fraternity, Conrad Kipping. Connie was also one of Stompin' Tom's favourite pickin' buddies. The 1993 Kic It tour featured many all night sessions with Tom and Conrad. </p>
<p>We can't describe the bliss we felt when we first began to play and sing that night. Our sound man at Signal Brewery was Wolfgang and he was amazing. The enjoyment level, thanks to his skill, was over the top. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>And what a setting...overlooking the Moira River. It got a bit cool and damp by the time we finished at 10 pm but it did not interfere with the enjoyment level of all concerned. Check it out. www.signal.beer Situated in the Belleville city limits.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/20c619d389f1671059392286c5d334e48894508f/original/smith.jpeg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p> </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/63883532020-07-21T09:17:09-04:002021-04-23T11:14:38-04:00Rubberhead in support of the Daily Bread Foodbank<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/b0a1423ca0bbb194804968f219f17d5180913a64/original/jokers-rubberhead.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Greetings from Whiskey Jack head office. Sadly, we're working from home, our on stage office being temporarily closed. It will reopen.</p>
<p>It doesn't happen often but sometimes my real estate, music and hockey interests overlap and good things happen. I brought my banjo to an International RE/MAX convention in Las Vegas and enjoyed this moment in the spotlight. Then there was the Joker Hockey Club appearance at the Sudbury Comedy Festival a few years ago.</p>
<p>Yesterday, this overlap happened again. My teammates on the Jokers Hockey Club collaborated on a Zoom performance in support of the Daily Bread Food Bank. Many on this great team are actors, comedians and musicians so they appreciate the importance of this charity. We chose Stompin' Tom's classic song, (Goodbye) Rubberhead.</p>
<p>As you'll see on this video, we had an enormous amount of fun putting this together.</p>
<p>Power forward (and the drummer for the Barenaked Ladies) Tyler Stewart began the project by asking me to make a recording of the song with my banjo. Whiskey Jack's Douglas John Cameron helped by sending me a guitar track as accompaniment, thus beginning the long recording process. Weeks later, Tyler released it to the world.</p>
<p>We hope you enjoy it and perhaps take a minute and donate a few bucks for the Daily Bread Food Bank.</p>
<p>Each day we think about you. We will meet again in person.</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/63799072020-07-08T14:36:16-04:002020-11-26T08:21:02-05:00It's a Bit Foggy Out There<p><span class="font_large">That's the only way I can easily describe our world right now. Visibility is not good.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/96546205a1e5f873ebefdb0177e0885e1a8266a7/original/wj-new-2021.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Regardless, we continue to book shows into 2021. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">It's been a busy few days. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">May 1, 2021 - Parry Sound </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">May 12 - 16, 2021 - tour of Eastern Canada </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Dec. 11, 2021 - Aeolian Hall London, On. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Also, dates to be confirmed for Orangeville, Corbyville and Alliston.</span></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/63722482020-07-01T07:56:39-04:002022-05-17T06:43:08-04:00The New 2020 Whiskey Jack<p><span class="font_large">Happy Canada Day to you and yours from Whiskey Jack head office. We thank you for supporting our music over the years. It continues to give us hope that some day we'll once again stand on a stage, sing our songs and share our stories. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In the meantime, we're doing what we can to keep the dream alive by using the tools and opportunities available to us. This week, the "new" Whiskey Jack assembled 6' apart, played a lot of tunes and reminisced about the biggest and most thrilling gig of our lives. On July 1, 27 years ago, it was an absolutely perfect Canadian summer night when Stompin' Tom walked on the enormous Parliament Hill stage to the cheers of hundreds of thousands of cheering, flag waving Canadians. Walking right behind him, huge grins on our faces and our instruments in hand, was Whiskey Jack. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Our video producer Douglas John Cameron set up his equipment at our jam session and recorded a version of the song Tom sang that night in 1993...a song that he must have written specifically for this moment, "It's Canada Day, Up Canada Way". <a contents="This is our 2020 heartfelt version" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/g08QvngQok0">This is our 2020 heartfelt version</a>. We hope you enjoy it. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><a contents="And then there is this 1993 version" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/xFOPZX3U7CQ">And then there is this 1993 version</a>, a perfect salute to our great country. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Stay safe and we'll see you sometime... </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Duncan Fremlin, banjo and vocals; </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Douglas John Cameron, guitar and vocals; </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Conrad Kipping, mandolin and vocals;</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Eric Jackson, bass.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/2dced93bcd529fa78b84f5c4b6181fce804ceb27/original/2020wjcandaywj.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/63304562020-05-26T08:46:57-04:002021-08-25T19:43:10-04:00Bob McNiven - Lives Lived<p>Bob McNiven, professional singer, songwriter, guitar and banjo player, unapologetically romantic with a smile permanently imprinted on his face, was born in Pennsylvania on May 24, 1952 and died at home in Toronto on May 4, 2020 of ALS. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/28058aa59a8aad1f84befdf2c21fa5dadc7b589f/original/bob-promo.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>
<p>Bob’s unusual childhood was the roadmap for his life as a professional musician. He grew up singing and playing music with his family band, The Singing McNiven’s. His dad was a preacher and they travelled America singing gospel music in camps and churches. Originally from Pelham Ontario, the family returned there in 1958 and continued to perform until Bob discovered rock and roll many years later.</p>
<p>He didn’t speak much about those years but by the time he came of age and left the family band, his voice had a power and a clarity that would take him to the biggest stages in North America. Added to that was his exceptional songwriting acumen and a keen ear for arranging and singing harmony, a skill that would serve him well the rest of his life.</p>
<p>For all of his career, Bob and his large audience shared a closeness seldom seen in our industry. They were all his friends. Everyone loved Bob.</p>
<p>When he set out on his own, he began to make a life for himself in bluegrass and country music by attending the music program at Humber College. He graduated with the chops to be an exceptional solo performer. But his love was musical collaboration. He always had a band on the go. Early on, his bands were country roots band Open Road followed by the power trio, Derby, Saunders and McNiven. Then, in 1980, my 4 piece bluegrass band Whiskey Jack put a two line classified ad in our local paper - “wanted, bluegrass guitar player”. Little did I know those four words would define the rest of my life. Bob answered the ad and we spent the next forty years recording many albums, touring North America, performing weekly on the CBC’s Tommy Hunter Show and touring with Stompin’ Tom Connors.</p>
<p>I have a million Bob McNiven stories but my favourite (of the ones fit for publication) was his audition in my Cabbagetown basement. He drove in from his country home near Barrie. In he walked, ponytail hanging down to his ass and the ever present smile. He throws to the floor a green garbage bag full of pot! "You're in" I declared. The next few years were a bit hazy.</p>
<p>Forty years later, I mourn the loss of my best friend and musical partner, the man who gave me the richest life I could ever imagine…a career in music. He played guitar to my banjo, sang beautiful harmony to my songs and knew when to laugh at my jokes. Bob was a private man with a humility that more often than not overshadowed his accomplishments and talent. I used to think that maybe he didn’t know how good he was. He wasn’t just good. He was great!</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/61970002020-01-30T19:44:22-05:002021-08-27T12:03:27-04:00Whiskey Jack in 2006 with Arlene Zock - Toronto Mike'd Episode #577 - <p><a contents="Erin Davis" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.erindavis.com">Erin Davis</a> from CHFI fame was recently interviewed on a podcast called <a contents="Toronto Mike'd" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.torontomike.com">Toronto Mike'd</a>. It was an all encompassing conversation and in a round-about way, she made mention of Whiskey Jack. Her husband Rob Whitehead played bass for us for many years. She also spoke glowingly of Arlene Zock, our brilliant vocalist who died in 2011. I'm very pleased to announce that Arlene's fans can now, for the first time, listen to her on Spotify, Apple Music and all the other streaming platforms. I'm sorry it took so long to make this happen. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/1a3bf447590dda52cd10b6441e90b832574c826c/original/wjmusic-com.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>The title fo this 2006 album is whiskeyjackmusic.com but retailers take issue with websites being the album name, so it has been reverted to a self-titled album. This is a star studded group of Canadian musicians and it begins with our long time producer and often bass player, <a contents="John Switzer" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.johnswitzer.ca">John Switzer</a>. John's mixing talent and his ability to get great performances from everyone is all over this CD. Then there's my long time guitarist/vocalist and very loveable, Bob McNiven (check out his sizzling guitar solo on My Window Faces The South); Greg Street (5 time winner of Canadian Bluegrass Bass Player of the year) is a bass player's bass player; harmonica wizard Howard Willett (his solos give me goose bumps); the late and amazing Steve Klodt on accordion; Steve Briggs (yes, that Steve Briggs) on mandolin (check out his solo on In A Prayer); the fantastic Michelle Josef on drums; Randy Morrison, 5 time Canadian National Bluegrass Fiddler and yours truly on banjo.</p>
<p>There have been a lot of exceptional versions of Whiskey Jack over the last 43 years, including the present incarnation, but the 2006 group of musical friends was special. Being able to add my voice to the McNiven/Zock duo was a high I'll never experience again. https://music.apple.com/ca/album/whiskey-jack/1492185718</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/61587152020-01-23T19:42:37-05:002022-05-31T02:32:07-04:00New Song About Stompin' Tom and Whiskey Jack<p>As many of our fans know, we toured with our show in Northern Ontario in May, 2019. At the time, we jokingly referred to these shows as Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom On Steroids. The steroid part was the addition of Cindy Church, Russell deCarle and The Good Brothers to our stage. </p>
<p>At a preproduction meeting with all of the participants earlier that year, I gave Bruce and Brian Good a copy of my book, My Good Times With Stompin' Tom. One chapter in that book inspired the twins to write a song. It's called <a contents="Stompin' Tom, The Shooting Star" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/_9Qy7H4Vsxk">Stompin' Tom, The Shooting Star</a>. They performed it at all of the Steroid shows.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/_9Qy7H4Vsxk" width="560"></iframe>There are references in the song to a special, yet odd clause in our contract with Stompin' Tom. It read "one member of the band must be available to stay up with Tom until 5 AM each night". Whiskey Jack learned the song and now sing it at all of our shows. One of these days we're record it but in the meantime, Douglas and Duncan (aka, Doogie and Dun) sat down in front of a camera recently and recorded this version. It was written in the third person but we sing it in the first. We hope you like it. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/d2df8b3b5c96da9a29a41982e7958f54566529a0/original/121.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/60568022020-01-02T17:06:45-05:002020-06-05T01:07:33-04:00Banjo Dunc's Debut on Toronto Mike'd Podcast<p>It's now official. Banjodunc made his debut today on this great podcast and much was said about our main man, Stompin' Tom Connors. Let the advertising campaign begin and please everyone, share the news that the 7th Annual Stompin' Tom Birthday Celebration is coming up at Zoomer Hall on April 16, 2020. <a contents="Tickets are on sale now." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.universe.com/whiskey">Tickets are on sale now.</a> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/b11da6c265e2252cd9e9e1789ce2e28419e2d6f5/original/fotm-duncan-fremlin.jpeg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Mike and I spun a few discs and talked about many things and people ... Dan Kershaw's Bramalea, Douglas Cameron's Three Chord Johnny and Mona With The Children, @BernieFinlest, Sarah Harmer (who would be a great guest on this show), Sean Cullen, Erin Dawn Davis, Tyler Stewart @baldy67, Sean O'Connor, Burke Carroll, John Switzer, Adam Crossley's Beautiful World, Bob McNiven, J.P. Cormier's Sometimes, Steve Paikin, Stompin Tom Connors , Brian McFarlane, Jesse Brown, Dave Bidini, @davehodge20, @Dowbboy, and more.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<a class="zoogle-track-widget" data-width="100%" data-height="510" data-style="border: 1px solid #9E9E9E; max-width: 510px;" href="https://bandzoogle.com/tracks/170852/271113666/2040101.html">Embed for Toronto Mike'd Episode 565 - Banjounc</a><script src="https://bandzoogle.com/tracks/170852/271113666/2040101.js"></script>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/60455542019-12-25T16:23:01-05:002020-06-05T01:07:46-04:00Hallelujah, It's Bud The Spud<p>When we're not on tour with Whiskey Jack performing Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom Show across the country, Duncan and Douglas are making friends and music as a duo. They call themselves Doogie and Dun. Sometimes, with too much time on their hands, things get out of hand. This is what happens. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/b75db8601405b818115138e5165d8d57ac070692/original/d-and-d-free-times.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>
<p>Think of this as a Fantasy League for Canadian music fans..."What would happen if?"</p>
<p>In this case, what would have happened if Leonard Cohen got fed up with trying to write the lyrics for his little ditty, Hallelujah, and he had called his pal, Stompin' Tom Connors for his assistance.</p>
<p>It's called Hallelujah, It's Bud The Spud. </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Photo by Gary Beechey, BDS Studio<iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="CxqAyOYg5Ps" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/CxqAyOYg5Ps/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/CxqAyOYg5Ps?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/60394112019-12-22T16:30:00-05:002020-11-26T08:01:38-05:00Whiskey Jack Enters The World of Podcasting in 2020...Exciting stuff!<p>As Whiskey Jack begins its seventh touring season, our quest for world domination continues. Increasing our footprint... our profile - that's what it's all about. I'm happy to report that we are making progress on that front. We have entered into a business relationship with what we think is the hottest media outlet in the GTA and beyond, a podcast called <a contents="Toronto Mike'd" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.torontomike.com">Toronto Mike'd</a>. There is even hope that this is a game changer for our show.</p>
<p>Here's why it's so important. In our 40+ year history, Whiskey Jack has never had a hit record. We're not known nationally for our catalogue of work. There's no Whiskey Jack imprint tattooed on the Canadian ass. Most Canadians have never heard of us. Worse still, many of those who have heard of us don't know why they know the name. They say "oh yeah, I think I've heard about them"..or some such platitude. This means we have to work doubly hard to book shows, sell tickets, finance our recording projects and continue to be relevant in our remaining years on the Canadian stage. Our runway is getting shorter folks so we now measure our future in shorter increments. </p>
<p>So when I first tuned into Toronto Mike'd for the first time, besides being highly entertained and engaged with the content, I saw opportunity. I studied the guest list (over 560 episodes) and noticed that all facets of Toronto life was represented The <strong>"who's who"</strong> of our large GTA community and beyond were lining up to speak to the host, Mike Boon. "Good grief" said I, "who is this guy that he can get so many important people to drive to Islington and Lakeshore only to bump their head on the way downstairs to his basement studio and talk about Toronto?" </p>
<p>In the entertainment industry, he's interviewed legendary music mogul, Bernie Finkelstein, Barenaked Ladies drummer, Tyler Stewart, actor and comedian, Sean Cullen, singers Murray Mclaughlan, Tom Wilson and Dave Bidini and many more just like them. Sports and media personalities are also represented in great numbers....Broadcaster from CHJI fame, Erin Davis, TVO's Steve Paikin, broadcasting legend Dave Hodge , Bluejay play by play genius, Gerry Howarth and so on. All of these people live large lives in the most important metropolis in Canada and I immediately wanted Whiskey Jack to be part of it. I pined for access to Mike's audience. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/46f0678d33f1de3e75d7f736de1e24474647a6db/original/boon-fremlin.jpeg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>So, I emailed Mike and asked if Whiskey Jack could buy some time on his show. Within hours, he replied in the affirmative. We met, we bonded (no hug although that will probably come later) and we worked out a deal. Just like that. </p>
<p>My handle on his show is my Twitter identify, <strong>"banjodunc"</strong> or <strong>"Banjo Dunc"</strong>, whichever works in any given situation. In the months to come, I'll be using this platform to advertise my show and other musical adventures. <strong>"This episode is brought to you by Banjo Dunc and Whiskey Jack"</strong> will be a common refrain in the months to come. </p>
<p>I'm happy to report that Mike has invited me to his studio on January 2, 2020 where he will officially introduce me to his audience. In the meantime, I suggest you begin by checking out his list of guests, pick one you like and give it a listen. That's the beauty of podcasting, the content will be available to you anytime you want...whenever is convenient. </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/60214652019-12-15T12:09:04-05:002020-06-05T01:08:09-04:00Hockey Song Christmas Ornament Winner is...<p>Georgette A. from the Brantford area is the lucky winner of the Hockey Song Christmas Ornament Giveaway draw. We thank everyone who participated by ordering an item from our online store. A special thank you to Georgette for her support of our show.</p>
<p>This giveaway campaign was also promoted on one of Canada's premier podcasts, Toronto Mike'd. For those who haven't discovered the world of podcasting, we encourage you to check this out. Mike Boon is the host of this very popular show. Banjo Dunc and Whiskey Jack are honoured to be selected as one of his sponsors. </p>
<p>Fyi, there are many who think traditional radio is being replaced by podcasting and this format will dominate in the months to come. </p>
<p>Over the years, Mike has posted over 550 episodes, interviews and intimate discussions with the who's who of Canadian personalities. If you look closely at his list of guests, you'll find someone there that you know and love. </p>
<p>More on this later. </p>
<p>In the meantime, we've uploaded Episode 556. Near the beginning, he speaks of his guest's relationship with Whiskey Jack dating back to 1983. </p>1:35:29Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/59816292019-11-27T09:57:01-05:002020-06-05T01:08:20-04:00Stompin' Tom Christmas Tree Ornament Giveaway<p><span class="font_large"><strong><a contents="Stompin' Tom Christmas Ornament Giveaway" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/y1h_1visbCQ">Stompin' Tom Christmas Ornament Giveaway</a> - This ornament lights up and plays The Hockey Song...very cool. It's the only one we have. A collectors item. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>If you want a chance to win, all you have to do is go onto our website www.whiskeyjackmusic.com, click on STORE at the top of the page, and buy either a copy of Duncan's book, My Good Times With Stompin' Tom or buy any of the CD's listed there. One entry per item purchased. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>We will draw the winner on Dec. 15, 2019 and Express Post the ornament to you the next day! Merry Christmas...Ho ho ho! </strong></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="y1h_1visbCQ" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/y1h_1visbCQ/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/y1h_1visbCQ?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></strong></span></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/59474552019-11-02T11:03:35-04:002021-09-18T07:38:33-04:00What do Flossing and The Hockey Song Have In Common?<p>There are two moments in our shows when the crowd loses control of their senses. We live for these moments. It happens at every show!</p>
<p>The first is when our official Whiskey Jack dancer, <a contents="Douglas John Cameron begins to floss" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/ihiEDamizI4">Douglas John Cameron begins to floss</a>. The reaction from the crowd is immediate and loud. Smiles and laughter ensue. Why does Douglas John floss? Like the audience, he can't help himself. His arms spontaneously begin to swing and there's no stopping them. This phenomena has been studied by scientists around the world. It remains a puzzle. </p>
<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="ihiEDamizI4" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/ihiEDamizI4/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ihiEDamizI4?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>
<p> </p>
<p>The second moment when the crowd becomes unhinged is at the end of the night when we begin to sing the Canadian National Anthem. I'm not speaking of Oh Canada. I'm referring to <a contents="The Hockey Song" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/-_qj_Q6A3y4">The Hockey Song</a>. Canadian sociologists have determined that more Canadians know the lyrics to The Hockey Song than any other song. Whiskey Jack is the driving force behind the campaign to lobby Parliament to officially replace Oh Canada with The Hockey Song as our national anthem.<br> </p>
<p> </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/59350452019-10-22T12:53:15-04:002020-11-26T07:02:17-05:002019 Highlights and More<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_large">Make no bones about it. If you're looking for a show that will appeal to your audience born before 1979, call Duncan and ask about available dates for "Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom"! John Miller from Stratford Summer Music calls it "one of the most entertaining all Canadian shows on the circuit". It features Whiskey Jack, Stompin' Tom's touring band and stars of The Tommy Hunter Show (CBC-TV). Sure, some youngsters are often spotted in the audience, but most of them are pushing wheel chairs. They laugh and cheer with everyone else. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>What to watch for as they begin to fill dates for their 7th touring season: </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">- some dates available in 2020/2021 will include Canadian stars, comedian/author/actor/singer <a contents="Sean Cullen" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.seancullen.com">Sean Cullen</a> and <a contents="Cindy Church" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.cindychurch.com">Cindy Church</a>; </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">- new all Canadian romp through the Snow Bird set list... stories and songs by the "Two Toms" (Connors and Hunter), Gordon, Anne, Wilf, Ian and more; </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">- special medley written for the hitchhiking generation that thumbed their way back and forth across the country, when it was fashionable and possible. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">- as always, supported by country/roots band Whiskey Jack (now in their 43rd year) and their all star line up of award winning musicians and singers; <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/53feb7fd725f1ea2dc5ed6070344b2b7c15f3d8c/original/42.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>We reflect on a few of our 2019 highlights... </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">- <a contents="6th annual birthday show" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.zoomerradio.ca/videos/video-stories-songs-stompin-tom-live-zoomerhall-whiskey-jack-gordon-lightfoot/?fbclid=IwAR2nbI_Wbn1mM75Kxkro1jXk6SnoqmiPkwC33cJbnOoY1uo4JuYn_Lo3iP8">6th annual birthday show</a> at Zoomer Hall in Toronto with guest Gordon Lightfoot (broadcast live on AM740 and 96.7FM); </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">- Canadian country music caravan tour of Northern Ontario with The Good Brothers and Russell deCarle (Prairie Oyster); </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">- <a contents="first Koerner Hall appearance" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/iKJ8APL-skY">first Koerner Hall appearance</a> (thanks Moses Znaimer); </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">- a tour of Nova Scotia and New Brunswick (including the deCoste Centre in Pictou); </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">- released a new CD (Rhymes and Good Times) produced by Juno Award Producer, Danny Greenspoon; </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">- hosted fundraising concert to help revitalize the historic Wingham Town Hall Theatre; </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">- published second edition of Duncan's book, My Good Times With Stompin' Tom...and </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">- standing ovation from 600+ fans at the storied Sanderson Centre for the Arts in Brantford (part of their 100th anniversary celebrations). </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">This is not like any other show. It's the real deal! The performers on stage were there when it happened.</span></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/58696642019-08-25T18:00:38-04:002019-09-08T19:48:07-04:00Moving Forward into 2020 and 2021<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/d71212772c00399aadbbc3771ebb65ba46be0da9/original/19-0510-whisky-jack-the-soo-1071.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" />Since our very first show on February 9, 2014, we've sung our songs and told our tall tales to Canadian music fans in more than 100 theatres, fairs and festivals. This celebration of Canadian music is called Whiskey Jack Presents Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom. Our playlist defines us as a nation.</p>
<p>All of our tours with Stompin' Tom were designed to reach as many Canadians as possible. They included towns, communities and cities of all shapes and sizes. That's our goal for 2020 and 2021. This message is to let you know that we have a show, specific to your town or community, big or small. Do you know of a local organization, church, service/community group that might like to work with us on a show? Perhaps a big Stompin' Tom concert in their community could be used to raise some much needed funds for a specific project? For example a new roof on the local community centre? Please pass this invitation on to them. We welcome their call.</p>
<p>You can ask for the big show, suitable for larger theatres and halls. It might include country music stars Marie Bottrell, Russell DeCarle or maybe Cindy Church. They've all guested with us in the past. We also offer a smaller, more affordable stage show starring Whiskey Jack, a long time Stompin' Tom back up band. Both shows are the real deal. These Canadian all star musicians tell the real stories...because they were there! We've performed in Legions, churches, theatres of all sizes, community halls, schools, house concerts, fairs, huge music festivals and more. We can provide sound and lights and ticketing as needed.</p>
<p>You're receiving this because you've either attended a show, hired us to perform, bought our CD's, read Duncan's book, "My Good Times With Stompin' Tom" or simply connected with us on social media asking "when are you coming to our community?" Our show can be customized to accommodate all regions of the country.</p>
<p>This is the only show licensed by the Connors family and Tom's record label, Anthem Entertainment.</p>
<p>For a list of future shows and details on how to purchase our music and book, please visit www.whiskeyjackmusic.com And if you want to enjoy 22 minutes of good old fashion Canadian music, check out our most recent Youtube video filmed on June 21, 2019 at Koerner Hall at the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto. Our guests were Prairie Oyster's Russell deCarle, 5 time Canadian National Fiddle Player, Randy Morrison and 8 time Juno nominated country music star, Marie Bottrell. Before you click on this link, turn up the volume.</p>
<p>We hope to see you at one of our shows real soon.</p>
<p>Duncan, Douglas John, Randy and Eric</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/58241402019-07-14T09:36:48-04:002019-09-08T19:48:13-04:00Koerner Hall Performance!<p>On June 21, 2019, we debuted our new show at Koerner Hall at the Royal Conservatory of Music in downtown Toronto. Moses Znaimer from MZ Media and Zoomer Media invited us to close his three day conference, Idea City and what a show it was.</p>
<p>Rick Mercer and Mary Walsh set the table nicely and then, as you can see from this video, Whiskey Jack with guests Marie Bottrell and Russell DeCarle took over. </p>
<p>The concept for our 2020/2021 tour is here for all to see. It's a Canadian music narrative featuring highlights from many generations of music legends, those who came before us and and those that followed. It's because of these greats that we've been able to enjoy a life in music. </p>
<p>Right in the middle of this story line is Stompin' Tom Connors, a man we've been living with for many years. </p>
<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="iKJ8APL-skY" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/iKJ8APL-skY/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/iKJ8APL-skY?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>
<p>Check it out. </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/57904602019-06-13T13:03:02-04:002021-08-11T02:10:04-04:00Stompin' Tom at the Royal Conservatory of Music<p><a contents="Moses Znaimer" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.mosesznaimer.com">Moses Znaimer</a> (from City-TV fame) has invited Whiskey Jack to perform highlights from their Stompin' Tom show at his annual conference, Idea City. The stage is the glamorous Koerner Hall, the conservatory's performance centre piece. We've been asked to close the conference, tearing it up right after performances by <a contents="Rick Mercer " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.rickmercer.com">Rick Mercer </a>and <a contents="Mary Walsh" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.marywalsh.ca">Mary Walsh</a> from "<a contents="This Hour Has 22 Minutes" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.cbc.ca/22minutes/">This Hour Has 22 Minutes</a>" fame.</p>
<p>Dr. Stompin' Tom was very proud when he received his Doctor of Laws degree from St. Thomas University New Brunswick university in 1993. It amused him greatly that an uneducated country singer like him could receive such an honour... and keep his hat on during the ceremony. On June 21, 2019, his music will again be front and centre at a storied institution, the historic Royal Conservatory of Music in downtown Toronto. Perhaps Glenn Gould and Stompin' Tom are making music somewhere at this very moment - three major chords, maybe 4 - no minor chords please. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/2006ce95ca78329c55c68584e1f971f58f44f542/original/decarle-fremlin.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>
<p>For this important occasion, we've written a special show that will include highlights from the definitive Canadian music playlist, songs made famous by singers who inspired Tom and songs by those who are still performing today. Besides hits from Stompin' Tom's catalogue, the audience will hear the music of Don Messer, Wilf Carter and more. Our very special guests will be our good friends, <a contents="Marie Bottrell" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.ccma.org/cgi/page.cgi/hall_of_fame_inductees.html?log=view&log_id=79">Marie Bottrell</a> (9 Juno nominations) and <a contents="Russell deCarle" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.russelldecarle.com">Russell deCarle</a> from Prairie Oyster (6 Juno Awards). Russell and Marie are both members of the Country Music Hall of Fame. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/88bb732c83a5791480c8a1a4574cb0a003a71a53/original/doug-marie-dun1.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>
<p>The live performance is available to those with a pass to this three day conference. It will also be streamed live <a contents="at this link" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.ideacity.ca">at this link</a>. Our performance will be filmed and made available to the general public later in the month.</p>
<p> </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/57720372019-05-29T08:22:33-04:002019-09-08T19:48:24-04:00Idea City 2019 Program Now Available<p>We are presently drafting a special 15 minute presentation for the 20th anniversary of the <a contents="Idea City" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://ideacity.ca/speaker/whiskey-jack/">Idea City</a> Conference at Koerner Hall in downtown Toronto. This program will salute the great Canadian musicians and singers who came before us, the "old timers" who travelled the dusty roads (before there was a Trans Canada Highway) in beat up Chevy station wagons in pursuit of fame and fortune. I'm referring to Stompin' Tom, Don Messer, Wilf Carter, Al Cherny, Ward Allen and more. These great Canadians made it possible for Whiskey Jack and our guest Russell deCarle to enjoy a career in music.</p>
<p>The entire Idea City program is now available. We will be closing the three day symposium on June 21 and our performance will be free to all ticket holders. </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/2b9ba3815603f8234b05ea7e8dc0a0ce1c78c5e3/original/wj-russell.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/57665722019-05-24T09:21:31-04:002019-09-08T19:48:35-04:00Whiskey Jack and Russell deCarle at Koerner Hall<p><span class="font_large"><strong>On January 31 of this year, we hosted our <a contents="6th Annual Stompin' Tom Birthday Celebration" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="2019%20show%20http://www.zoomerradio.ca/videos/video-stories-songs-stompin-tom-live-zoomerhall-whiskey-jack-gordon-lightfoot/?fbclid=IwAR2nbI_Wbn1mM75Kxkro1jXk6SnoqmiPkwC33cJbnOoY1uo4JuYn_Lo3iP8">6th Annual Stompin' Tom Birthday Celebration</a> at Zoomer Hall in Toronto. In the audience that night was broadcaster (City-TV) and media pioneer, Moses Znaimer. He's also the founder of <a contents="Idea City" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.ideacity.ca">Idea City</a>, an annual gathering of "the smartest people. The biggest ideas". </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Shortly after our show, Moses sent me an invitation to perform at the closing ceremonies to the 20th anniversary of this conference. We are honoured to be a part of this event. Whiskey Jack will be presenting highlights from our show on June 21 at Koerner Hall in downtown Toronto. We're also very pleased that Russell deCarle, one of Canada's premier country music vocalists will be our guest.</strong></span></p>
<p>Photo by Norm Betts.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/2b9ba3815603f8234b05ea7e8dc0a0ce1c78c5e3/original/wj-russell.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/57604212019-05-19T17:22:49-04:002020-11-26T01:15:00-05:00What the future holds for Stompin' Tom and his music<p>When I'm interviewed by the media about my show, I often wonder out loud what Tom's legacy will look like in the decades to come, long after I've joined him in the afterlife. Now that our Northern Ontario tour is over and I have time to bask in the glory from these amazing shows, I think I have a hint of how it will be.</p>
<p>Often each night, in all of the great theatres we played, I'd look across the stage and see some scenes I could only dream about. First there was a spirited Russell deCarle swinging his guitar side to side as he was belting out Tom's "Singing Away My Blues". Listening to an elite Canadian country music vocalist elevate this song to new heights was one of the many highlights. Moments later, a beaming trio of brothers, Bruce, Larry and Brian Good were introducing their new song to the country. It's a song about Tom called Shooting Star. We'd all have huge grins on our faces as they sang...</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>"He toured around from town to town, from one coast to another, </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Whiskey Jack would have his back, They looked out for each other... </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>The legend goes, after the shows, They knew how Tom would think, so, </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>They'd see who'd draw the shortest straw, To stay up for a drink oh, </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>They'd stay up and get stinko". </strong></p>
<p>And if that wasn't enough thrills for one night, we'd then welcome Cindy Church to the stage and listen to her haunting rendition of "Songbird Valley", one of Tom's more poignant songs. Douglas and I spoke later of the chills we felt when we heard our harmony parts wrap around that amazing voice.</p>
<p>The supporting cast, Whiskey Jack, were the elite of the Canadian country music community. First there was multi-instrumentalist and entertainer extraordinaire, Douglas John Cameron. His dance (some call it flossing) <strong> </strong>brought the house down every night! What a roar that was. Fiddle great Randy Morrison worked the crowd into a frenzy with his wild and crazy Orange Blossom Special. Holding it all together was the great Bill Carruthers on drums and the oh-so-steady and creative Eric Jackson on upright bass. My mouth was put to good use as I MC'd the show and kept it moving and the sum total resulted in standing ovation after standing ovation. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/ebd92f0e0519e2485ab815194338fe0228bd5334/original/steroid-cast-live.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>We can only hope there will be many more shows like this in towns and cities across the country. Stompin' Tom in 2019 - never sounded better.</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/57149672019-04-10T18:17:47-04:002019-09-08T19:48:49-04:00Rhymes and Good Times...New CD!<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font_large"><strong>RHYMES AND GOOD TIMES </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>OVERVIEW: <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/21850cc51c0096ffacad45df5035fcaa4f850cf0/original/cd-front.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_regular">This new CD,<em> Rhymes and Good Times</em>, has been in the works since this show began almost 6 years ago. Says co-producer Duncan Fremlin, “<em>each time I performed these songs with Tom over the years, I was hearing other versions in my head. I was imagining what they would sound like if they were arranged and produced using elite Canadian musicians who really understood and appreciated Canadian country music. I now know! Some are right here on this CD. To my ear, Tom’s songs have never sounded better."</em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>THE PLAYERS: </strong></span></p>
<p>The project was recorded at Canterbury Sound in Toronto under the tutelage of 4 time Juno Award winning producer, <em>Danny Greenspoon</em>. Danny is no stranger to this style of music having been the band leader and producer for Sylvia Tyson for many years. The performers include members of Whiskey Jack, Duncan Fremlin, Douglas John Cameron, Randy Morrison, Eric Jackson and Al Cross. Guests musicians include Cindy Church, John Sheard, Tom Mifflin, Sean O’Connor, Howard Willett, Burke Carroll, Denis Keldie and Danny Greenspoon.</p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>THE SONGS:</strong> </span></p>
<p><strong>Tillsonburg</strong> takes on new life with a ragtime piano solo by Vinyl Cafe music director, John Sheard;</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Around The Bay and Back Again</strong> stars Canadian National Fiddle Champion Randy Morrison;</p>
<p><strong>My Last Farewell </strong>- a tasteful clarinet solo (Sean O’Connor) makes this the jazz hit Tom never had;</p>
<p><strong>TTC Skidaddler</strong> rocks with harmonica wizard Howard Willett and blues guitarist and vocalist Douglas John Cameron taking the lead;</p>
<p><strong>Mirazha</strong> is a playful and funny Tom song about a Niagara Falls marriage gone bad - he wrote this later in his life;</p>
<p><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/6bcaef1bfa3bc6b6042b60d10ea06634bc1298a3/original/wj-church-beech.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" />Goin’ To The Barndance</strong> is a fiddle/banjo barnburner honouring Tom’s appearances on The Don Messer Show.</p>
<p>The fan favourite from the CD is a Douglas John Cameron original, a lament about Tom’s absence from the Canadian music scene. It’s called <strong>Stories and Songs</strong>. Download it for free from our web site. </p>
<p>The tracks are available on iTunes and Spotify.</p>
<p>And there’s more… The <em>four bonus tracks</em> are from the CD Whiskey Jack recorded with Stompin’ Tom in 1993. It’s called <em>Dr. Stompin’ Tom...eh?</em> The CD can be purchased directly from the band’s website at www.whiskeyjackmusic.com </p>2:38Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/56599212019-02-26T07:44:35-05:002021-09-22T03:04:43-04:00Mac Wiseman and Stompin' Tom<p>The great Mac Wiseman died yesterday. His voice was a part of my life for as long as I can remember. In the 1950's, Don Ramsey's radio show in the Soo was on all the time in our little house on Pumpkin Point Road in Laird Township near Bar River, Ontario and Jimmy Brown the Newsboy was my favourite song at that time.</p>
<p>Years later, I played banjo for Mac on one of his Canadian tours. Whiskey Jack even recorded a radio special with Mac on David Essig's show on the CBC. I have that recording somewhere. On that show he tells the story of Canada being responsible for making Bringing Mary Home a hit!</p>
<p>But there was a moment at Stompin' Tom's 70th birthday party that I remember most clearly. It was quite an event with most of Tom's entourage in attendance. All is touring pals and Deane Cameron his record label pal and on and on. Whiskey Jack was the host band and the table was set with sandwiches and the condiments and "all that good stuff" as Tom used to say. The booze was flowing, the dance floor was happening and somewhere along the way, Lena came out of the kitchen and said to Tom, "you're wanted on the phone".</p>
<p>He returned moments later with a grin on his face and announced "it was Mac Wiseman. He wanted to wish me Happy Birthday".</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/d848e58bab3bde0de0b81a69322a7c28cc4411a9/original/stompin-tom-mariposa-july-11-1971.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>I'l sorry to say, I didn't ask Tom how why he knew Mac. So yesterday, I emailed Tom's old business partner Jury Krytiuk and asked him if Tom had ever met Mac. He replied that they might have met at one of the early Mariposa's because they were both on the bill one year. I sent Jury a copy of the attached 1971 program announcing Tom's appearance and this was Jury's reply:</p>
<p> </p>
<p><em>"This was not the year. I don't recall this lineup at all. You would think I would since it included Humphrey and the Dumptrucks, the first group I recorded, and Willie Dunn, another Boot act. Maybe I was at Mariposa on Canadian Music Sales business. We had all the song folios, Gordon Lightfoot, Ian and Sylvia, Dylan...or maybe Dick Flohil dragged me out. I hit Toronto on Valentine's day 1969 so it could easily have been Mariposa 69 or 70 that I attended. I recall Peter Rowan and Martin Bogan and Armstrong. Then I remember going back to the Edgewater Motel where everyone stayed where there was a sing song of all the entertainers. Seem to remember Joan Baez's voice coming out over the top of everyone elses. But then maybe I'm dreaming Boot was started in 1971 so possibly Humphrey and the Dumptrucks performed injunction with recording their album. And now that I think of it I didn't do the native series until 1974 or 75 so in 71 Willie Dunn would have been unknown to me."</em></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/56428572019-02-14T09:04:08-05:002022-02-07T06:24:15-05:00Our Fans Are The Best<p>Our birthday celebration at Zoomer Hall on January 31, 2019 was special for a lot of reasons. The show and the special guests were outstanding. Everyone performed brilliantly. </p>
<p>The fans however were also outstanding in every respect. They drove from many miles away to attend and their enthusiasm and exuberance were contagious. They inspired the on stage performances for the entire show. We could even feel the love and affection from those who watched the show on their computer. They emailed and texted us from B.C., Alberta, Saskatchewan, Prince Edward Island and Nova Scotia to tell us how much they enjoyed it.</p>
<p>There is one fan however who has continually gone the extra mile. He's a native of PEI (no surprise there) and his affection for Tom and his music is unequalled. Over the years, he's attended all of our shows in the Toronto area and even drove north to Sault Ste. Marie on July 1, 2017 to see those shows. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/ac61e9ef1ad0582df60c07fe9cf998b21d547c31/original/gord-alan1.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>
<p>At this year's birthday celebration, he gave us a very special gift. <a contents="This video" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/zICrl578VXw">This video</a> is our thanks to Alan Dalton. </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/56266372019-02-04T09:01:31-05:002019-09-08T19:49:10-04:00Best Stompin' Tom Birthday Party!<p>My friend and editor of my book Jim Baine is spending the winter in Trinidad. He watched the Zoomer show on his computer and immediately emailed to offer his congratulations on a great show. He also noted that Tom would have liked this party. How right he is.</p>
<p>Over the years, Tom invited me often to perform at his private functions, many of them birthday parties. Each party was special. He was a gracious host. Tom always joined us on his stage to sing a few songs. There was lots of laughter and good cheer. These ingredients were in great abundance last Thursday at my 6th Annual Stompin' Tom Birthday Celebration. The vibe in the room and back stage was very special. Lots of hugging and back slapping and smiling faces. </p>
<p>Much of the love in the room came from our guests: Murray Foster, The Good Brothers, Gordon Lightfoot and Russell deCarle. There's a lot of history behind this lineup. Most of us have known and respected each other for decades so whenever we all get together, it's very warm and friendly.</p>
<p>The professionals at Zoomer Radio were amazing. The production of the show was first class. Also, thanks to the sold out crowd for their exuberant response! I still get goose bumps thinking about it.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/1dbe1d5c4280f02e4f7b4123e6ecc455e04cb9a8/original/img-4533.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/56119522019-01-25T09:30:30-05:002021-09-04T16:35:59-04:00Russell deCarle from Prairie Oyster joins our Birthday Show lineup<p>You're reading it here for the first time folks. Yes, it's true. The riches on our stage next Thursday night (January 31, 2019) continue to pile up. </p>
<p>I just got off the phone from the man with "the voice", arguably the smoothest, silkiest country music voice in the country. I'm referring to Russell deCarle of course. Russell called to say he's looking forward to driving down from his farm north of Toronto to join us in celebrating what would have been Stompin' Tom Connors 83rd birthday. And in typical Russell deCarle fashion, he'll do it in style. He's going to sing Gumboot Cloggeroo!</p>
<p>The inclusion of Russell to our lineup on Thursday, along with The Good Brothers, will set the table nicely for our spring tour of Northern Ontario. In case you haven't heard, it'll be Duncan's Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom show supported by his band Whiskey Jack with guests Russell, The Goods and Cindy Church! May 8 in North Bay; May 9 in Elliot Lake, May 10 in Sault Ste. Marie and a Sudbury Saturday Night on May 11. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/4592e90193538244a685f7a7233bbf0a4439e96a/original/dun-russ1.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/56056452019-01-21T13:59:47-05:002021-10-14T11:03:46-04:00Stompin' Tom Hangers-On<p>Over the years, we've met and become good friends with many of Stompin' Tom's most loyal fans - and believe me, there are a lot of them. Most are every day folks, people we meet in the street or the grocery store lineup. However, there are others who are not so "every day". If you'd like to meet some of them, please join our studio audience at my 6th Annual Stompin' Tom Birthday Celebration at Zoomer Hall, Jan. 31, 2019. </p>
<p>This "odd duck" is one of my favourite Tomites. <a contents="He and I sat down for a chat last week. " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/kcxKfrg7UjA">He and I sat down for a chat last week. </a> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/0c9d41098c7a5dab83156b3b387a7dd942b1f824/original/stompin-marc.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/55826122019-01-05T18:22:23-05:002021-10-23T23:08:25-04:00More Press for Stompin' Tom Show<p>Since we began this odyssey 5+ years ago, I've met hundreds of fans and friends who have reached out to us in support our efforts, all with a genuine appreciation for our music. Publishing the book has opened the door to an entirely new community of fans. </p>
<p>A few weeks ago, I met and interviewed the legendary broadcaster, Brian McFarlane from Hockey Night In Canada Fame. We've become great pals, always lots to talk about. I'll publish my last interview with him at a later date. It's all about old school hockey....very interesting.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/90260e06a76ad1fd2324b81b2d6bd8c1bcf57bc2/original/brian-mcfarlane.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p>Today, I was invited to visit the studio of the legendary broadcaster/author, Ted Woloshyn on CFRB radio. He read my book and loved it. What a thrill it was to talk to him about this. As it turns out, he's a good pal of Tom's old business partner, Jury Krytiuk. Ted was nominated for a Juno in 1981. It was a comedy album It's Not the Heat...it's the Humility. I think (and I'll double check this) that Jury helped him with this. </p>
<p>Also in attendance was the show's Music Director, another legend on the entertainment scene in Toronto, Bill King. I was embarrassed that I did not recognize Bill but he graciously forgave me. Bill is everywhere...a great jazz musician, author, photographer, columnist (FYI Music News), broadcaster (CIUT-FM) and on and on! He invited me to be a guest on his CIUT show later this month. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/593b42fda90fd79bc5b5b98f7f90797ea5c79822/original/king-woloshyn-me.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/55595722018-12-18T17:32:43-05:002019-09-08T19:50:27-04:00Talking about Stompin' Tom on AM740 Radio, Zoomer<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/6b3b5d6881ec7c8b724e2d5909baff2cb49c9b49/original/eva-duncan-norm.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" />On behalf of the entire Whiskey Jack team here at our head office in Toronto, we'd like to thank you for another exciting year full of amazing memories, music and exceptional audiences! We'd also like to wish you all a Merry Christmas and a very happy and healthy 2019. We're grateful for many things....headlining the Canada Day festivities at the Stompin' Tom Centre in Skinners Pond PEI being at the top of the list. This included a long drive through the beautiful Canadian landscape, much like we did with Tom all those years ago, TV appearances, newspaper articles and numerous warm and engaging encounters with our fans. What a thrill to share the stage that weekend with the great singer, Cindy Church More shows with Cindy coming in 2019. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The first pressing of Duncan's book My Good Times With Stompin' Tom has almost sold out!. It'll be in a lot of stockings on Christmas morning. Canada's most prominent country music journalist Larry Delaney wrote to say "CONGRATULATIONS on creating a very important chapter in Canadian country music literature. It deserves a spot on the Canadian Best Sellers List!!". Sun Media got into the mix. Reporter Jane Stevenson spent time with Duncan and wrote this article. It went national! More accolades from Tyler Stewart (Bare Naked Ladies), Sean Cullen, Liona Boyd and more. Grant MacNeill proprietor at the 12th Fret Music Store (where the book is being sold) wrote "lot's of laughs, well told, each short little yarn is worth telling". </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">One more bit of news...we're weeks away from releasing a new CD. It will be called Rhymes and Good Times. One more visit to the recording studio will do it. With the valued assistance of 5 time Juno Award winning producer, Danny Greenspoon, we'll be looking to show off our new and very contemporary interpretations of Stompin' Tom songs (wait until you hear TTC Skidaddler and Tillsonburg). We'll also include a new song by our very own, Douglas John Cameron called Stories and Songs. It's a lament about Tom that leaves our fans in tears. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If you're in the Toronto area on January 31, 2019, please join us at our 6th Annual Stompin' Tom Birthday Celebration. It'll be an up close and personal evening with guests The Good Brothers and Great Big Sea's Murray Foster....and more guests yet to be announced. This co-production with Zoomer Radio will be broadcast live and streamed on the internet. Check our web site for ticket details. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We look forward to seeing you in 2019! Duncan, Douglas, Randy, Eric and Al and our valued team, Jim Baine and Jason Fremlin</span></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/55520682018-12-13T07:51:19-05:002019-09-08T19:50:35-04:00Perils of Promoting Shows in 2018 and beyond<p>Perils of booking shows in 2018.</p>
<p>Recently there have been a couple of Facebook posts about the diminishing royalties distributed by SOCAN (and similar organizations) to songwriters. These critiques were written by singer/songwriters Danny Michel and Murray Foster and have since gone viral. Murray’s post triggered an invitation from the CBC's Metro Morning (Matt Galloway) for an on-air interview. In short, most of the revenue we dole out each month to Spotify and Apple goes into the bank accounts of the record labels. What’s left, and it’s a tiny percentage, is paid to the creators of the music they play. It stinks but there it is. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/c3f12f003f8c89a9d1dbf4d29d03c899158c3b4b/original/fergus-sro.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>There is a flip side to this story that impacts many more musicians. The competition for ticket sale revenue has never been so intense. The majority of musicians have never had a hit record so have never relied on royalties to pay the bills. These are touring musicians, like those in my band Whiskey Jack, who rely on the few fans who enjoy and support live music by buying tickets to their shows. On every level of the music business, to make up for the reduced royalty checks, performers are touring more. This is true of the Fleetwood Mac’s and the Valdy’s of the world. This has put a strain on the theatres and halls that host these shows. Add to this the nostalgic craze that fuels the ubiquitous tribute shows flooding the market, and you end up with “knock ‘em down fights” between promoters, entertainers and theatre directors, all clamouring for the prime dates, the Fridays and Saturdays that we all covet.</p>
<p>Since I began touring with my show Stories & Songs of Stompin’ Tom, I’ve learned how to recognize the conflicting interests between these parties and how to manage them. I earn a fee for my show in three different ways. Ideally, and this pertains to most of my shows, I simply sell my show to a theatre. The artistic director and I negotiate a fee, I help them promote the show, they manage and sell the tickets, we play the show and we go home. Clean and simple.</p>
<p>Another option, also very clean and simple, is a promoter produces a show, books a theatre, negotiates a fee with me, promotes and sells the tickets and again, we play our show, get paid and go home.</p>
<p>The third option is much riskier, more work and fraught with peril. It’s a self produced show. I'll sometimes book a theatre and promote a show myself if I think there’s a community where it would be very popular and no one is stepping up to buy it. This is when it gets tricky and I have to watch my back to make sure I’m not being used and abused. A good example is a show I produced in 2017. It was a prestigious theatre in a large Ontario city. A date was set one year in advance. The theatre director wanted to buy my show and produce it himself but he was worried it might be perceived to be a “tribute” show (which it most certainly is not). He told me that two of his best customers were promotors who each year booked numerous "tribute" shows in his theatre. They threatened to take their business elsewhere if they thought his theatre was competing with them by hosting his own tribute show. He did offer to include my show in the flyer he distributed to all the homes in the city. That was very helpful.</p>
<p>Then I had to concern myself with the type of shows being booked on either side of my date. I wouldn’t want to have to share an audience with a Johnny Cash tribute one week before my show. There is only so much disposable income to go around and the fans, many of them retirees on fixed incomes, might not have the money to attend both shows. Another danger would be if the theatre had booked a show of their own, one that might appeal to my audience. A Good Brothers show for example would draw the same demographic as mine so it’s only natural that the theatre would devote their energies to selling those tickets over mine. If a big production company had a show booked on either side of my scheduled date, they could use their substantial resources by smothering the market with online advertising, blanket the city with posters and potentially erode my ticket sales. I’ve also seen these production companies intentionally book a similar show after they saw my show advertised, again, with the idea of maintaining their grip on a specific audience.</p>
<p>Some theatres have a distinct advantage. They have an enormous email list of previous customers, what shows they attended in the past, how often they buy tickets and how much they are willing to spend. What I wouldn't give for that list. When they pay me to bring my show to their theatre, this data allows them to anticipate how many tickets they can sell. If I buy the theatre space and time, they sometimes offer, for a sizeable fee, to send out an email blast to these fans. If I agree, I don’t get a copy of this list so I can’t actually send it out myself. They do it for me. At least, I have to trust they do it for me. If my ticket sales jump after this blast, great. But often, there is no jump in sales and I’m left wondering if it was even sent.</p>
<p>Add to this the large costs associated with travelling with a show and it’s clear, this isn’t a business for the faint of heart.</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/55473812018-12-10T07:21:00-05:002023-12-10T13:07:52-05:00New Stompin' Tom Book Selling Well!<p>The demand for Duncan's new book, My Good Times With Stompin' Tom is through the roof! A second edition will be ordered before the end of the year. </p>
<p>The fans at our live show have been buying many copies of the book, which Duncan happily signs, but the online sales have also been fantastic. We've sent copies to every province and territory. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/8661540cf4a7f53738a5408d0fe723354b1c7db8/original/fremlin-ofc-cover.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>
<p>It's also available at the following locations:</p>
<p><strong>Toronto Public Library</strong></p>
<p><strong>12th Fret Music Store - 2132 Danforth Ave - Toronto, On.</strong></p>
<p><strong>Bearly Used Books - 15 James St - Parry Sound, On</strong></p>
<p><strong>Chapter Indigo Books - 873 Landsdowne Ave - Peterborough,</strong></p>
<p><strong>On White Mountain Publications - Cobalt On</strong></p>
<p><strong>Georgian Bay Books - Midland On</strong></p>
<p><strong>Brantford Bookworm, 331 Brant St., Brantford, On</strong></p>
<p><strong>Bookmark, 172 Queen St., Charlottetown, PE</strong></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/55404602018-12-05T06:31:36-05:002020-11-26T01:56:17-05:00Canadian Music Legends Salute Stompin' Tom<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font_large"><strong>Special Notice to all fans of Canadian Country Music: </strong></span></p>
<p><em>As in years past, the special guest list for this birthday party is never finalized until shortly before the show. If you've attended before, you know what we're talking about. The show this year will offer a "once in a lifetime" opportunity to personally interact and be entertained by a cast of prominent Canadian all stars. There will only be 150 tickets sold to this show. We recommend you buy yours now. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/426fe80591e6d3832f0a2cb9a720d129e8b567d2/original/good1.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font_large"><strong>Duncan Fremlin and Zoomer Radio Present The 6th Annual Stompin’ Tom Birthday Celebration Zoomer Hall, 70 Jefferson Ave in Toronto’s Liberty Village Thursday, January 31 at 8pm </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>On Thursday, January 31 at 8pm, Duncan Fremlin and his band Whiskey Jack will welcome musical guests to Zoomer Hall to celebrate what would have been Stompin’ Tom’s 82nd birthday. Zoomer Radio will broadcast the concert live on AM740 and 96.7FM in Downtown Toronto, and stream the concert at ZoomerRadio.ca. <a contents="Robbie Lane" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.zoomerradio.ca/hosts/robbie-lane/">Robbie Lane</a>, Zoomer Radio host and Canadian rock ‘n roll legend/founder of The Disciples will host the celebratory concert. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Whiskey Jack includes Stompin’ Tom band leader Duncan Fremlin on vocals and banjo; two-time Juno Award-nominee and multi-instrumentalist Douglas John Cameron, five-time Canadian National Fiddle Champion, Randy Morrison; Tom’s resident bass player Eric Jackson; and Canadian drumming legend Al Cross. </strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font_large"><strong>Two very special guests will also join the band to sing their favourite Stompin’ Tom songs including eight-time Juno Award-winners and International Hall of Fame Inductees, <a contents="The Good Brothers" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.thegoodbrothers.com">The Good Brothers</a>, and <a contents="Murray Foster" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.murrayfoster.ca">Murray Foster</a> from Moxy Fruvous and Great Big Sea. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>A regular performer with Stompin’ Tom from 1993 to his death, Duncan Fremlin has since become the voice or the curator of the Stompin’ Tom catalogue, as some have described him. Since 2014, Duncan has presented this all-Canadian show across the country, performing Tom’s greatest hits and sharing personal stories, tales just like the man himself – outrageously funny and barely believable. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Each concert celebrates the definitive, if not essential Canadian soundtrack with hits like The Hockey Song, Sudbury Saturday Night, Bud the Spud, Maple Sugar, Margo’s Cargo, Someday Soon, and classics reflecting Tom’s relationship with Toronto including Don Valley Jail and TTC Skidaddler. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Special arrangements have been made to open Moses Znaimer’s MZTV Museum of Television at the ZoomerPlex for the ticket-holders before the show. This museum holds Moses’ collection of pre-WWII and vintage television sets, the world’s largest, and the newly opened exhibit “Forgotten Genius: The Boy Who Invented Electronic Television about the life and career of Philo T. Farnsworth.</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font_large"><strong>Duncan Fremlin and Zoomer Radio Present The 6th Annual Stompin’ Tom Birthday Celebration </strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font_large"><strong>Thursday January 31 at 8pm Zoomer Hall, 70 Jefferson Avenue in Toronto’s Liberty Village. </strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font_large"><strong>Free parking on site. MZTV Museum open at 7pm, Show starts exactly at 8pm </strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font_large"><strong>All Tickets $35.00 To purchase tickets online, <a contents="click here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.universe.com/stompintom">click here</a>.</strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font_large"><strong>For more information please visit www.zoomerradio.ca whiskeyjackmusic.com or www.stompintom.com @banjodunc Twitter | FB/TributeStompinTom | @banjodunc (Instagram) </strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font_large"><strong>Media Contact: Duncan Fremlin - 416-716-3257</strong></span></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/55031102018-11-07T08:05:21-05:002021-07-14T02:43:07-04:00Stompin' Tom's friendship with Adrienne Clarkson<p><span class="font_large">Dissing a fellow citizen who has achieved a degree of success and notoriety is a popular Canadian pastime. I have been guilty of doing this myself, Neil Young being my favourite target. What great fun! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/a079778c2a6fd3c8fe7194a8d9e6ee5afc485f8b/original/57-copy-2.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But there is one target who over the years has taken more than her fair share of abuse and, from what I know, having worked closely with our former Governor General, the Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson on a project, this is not warranted one little bit. I’m referring of course to the recent headlines broadcasting the million dollars the Government of Canada has spent on her office expenses since she left office in 2005. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/549b80a76a66ee6866c6e06eaeafb900c885a567/original/174.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I, like all loyal citizens of this country, help to finance this expense account through my generous donation to the Receiver General each year. I happen to think I’m getting good value for my money. One Friday morning in early 2014, I emailed her and asked if she would lend her celebrity to join my annual Stompin’ Tom birthday concert in Toronto. The late Stompin’ Tom Connors is a well known Canadian singer/songwriter who devoted his life to promoting all things Canadian. He and Adrienne were also good friends. Later that day, and without hesitation, she called me and asked “what can I do?” and my reply was “might you sing a song with us at our show this year?”. “I’m not much of a singer” replied Madame Clarkson “but I can recite”. So, at my behest, she agreed to learn a very long and difficult Stompin’ Tom song about a heritage moment in our history, The Marten Hartwell Story. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As it turns out, she signed on to helping me with two of my annual shows. This involved travelling across the city to attend our rehearsals where she would sit with the other musicians waiting her turn, with not one hint that her time was in some way, more special. Over the next two years we spent a great deal of time together discussing who of her friends she could invite to help keep the memory of Stompin’ Tom alive. She welcomed me and my film crew into her home to talk at length about why Stompin’ Tom’s memory and message were so important to Canada. Her husband John Ralston Saul took time also to sit with me and discuss the show and what could be done to elevate it’s profile. She performed to great applause at two of my shows, arriving all dolled up in a Stompin’ Tom style cowboy hat and looking not at all like a Governor General. She accepted invitations to join me for newspaper interviews which resulted in front page coverage in The Toronto Star and many national press stories; photo ops; radio interviews such as the CBC’s Here & Now as well as magazine articles which resulted in an invaluable feature in Zoomer Magazine. All of these very time consuming activities were offered with a smile and a playfulness not expected of a 79 year old who has dedicated much of her adult life to the well being of her country. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I receive her Twitter feeds and marvel at the hours she spends supporting literacy, human rights, anti-racism, rights of minorities and women, the arts, citizenship and the list goes on and on. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">At a time in her life when she could be taking it easy, she works a schedule that most of us 20 years her junior would never take on. Instead, she continues to selflessly promote the kind of Canadian values that the world envies. If this only costs my government $100,000.00 each year, I think I’m getting good value for my money.</span></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/54734652018-10-17T08:56:12-04:002019-09-08T19:51:09-04:00Spud The Bud Is Now Legal<p>In 1969, a year many Canadians discovered marijuana for the first time, Stompin' Tom Connors wrote and published a song that has become an anthem for the country. One of many anthems penned by Tom actually. The success of this song was immediate and he was well on his way to becoming one of the most revered Canadians ever. We respectfully honour Stompin' Tom Connors' original version by releasing today, October 17, 2018, our salute to the legalization of this well loved and heavily used substance. We call this version, <a contents="Spud The Bud" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/N6IEAJkoEpc">Spud The Bud</a>.</p>
<p>The draconian legislation that criminalized marijuana use has wounded thousands, perhaps millions of Canadians by leaving them with undeserved criminal records and subsequent mental health issues, broken families and more. </p>
<p>The melody of this song was written by Canada's most revered singer/songwriter, Stompin' Tom Connors. Words by Duncan Fremlin. This version was filmed at Zoomer Hall in Liberty Village Toronto Ontario on February 11, 2018. The occasion was the 5th Annual Stompin' Tom Birthday Celebration. To see this song performed live, attend a performance of the show, Whiskey Jack Presents Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom. www.whiskeyjackmusic.com On stage at this show is Duncan Fremlin, Douglas John Cameron, Randy Morrison, Jen Cook, Al Cross and Eric Jackson.</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/54212332018-09-09T08:53:26-04:002019-09-08T19:51:18-04:00WORLD'S GREATEST STOMPIN' TOM SHOW ON TOUR NOW<p style="text-align: center;">For Immediate Release: September 8, 2018 • Please include in your listings/announcements</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Whiskey Jack and guest Canadian Country Music Star Cindy Church present </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em><span class="font_large"><strong>THE WORLD’S GREATEST STOMPIN’ TOM SHOW - ON TOUR NOW </strong></span></em></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>STORIES AND SONGS OF STOMPIN’ TOM Ontario Fall Tour, 2018 </strong></p>
<p>Whiskey Jack, a veteran Stompin’ Tom All Star back-up band and their guest, Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame inductee <a contents="Cindy Church" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.cindychurch.com">Cindy Church</a> will begin their fall tour of Ontario cities on October 11. This four city tour will feature shows in Burlington, Toronto, Port Stanley and Maryhill (Guelph). Whiskey Jack has been a mainstay on the national music scene since 1977, appearing weekly on the CBC’s Tommy Hunter Show in the 1980’s. They have six critically acclaimed albums to their credit, including their collaborative 1993 recording with Tom, Dr. Stompin’ Tom… Eh?. This recording project was followed by a national tour. Cindy Church has forged an award winning solo career along with numerous collaborative projects with Ian Tyson, Quartet (Sylvia Tyson) and Lunch At Allens (Murray McLauchlan, Ian Thomas etc).</p>
<p>Whiskey Jack is: <a contents="Duncan Fremlin" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/9NKvcAur0RA">Duncan Fremlin</a>, Stompin’ Tom’s long time band leader and raconteur on vocals and banjo; <a contents="Douglas John Cameron" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/fCYNtW6hSzs">Douglas John Cameron</a>, two time Juno Award nominee and multi instrumentalist; <a contents="Randy Morrison" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/fd52E_naw8I">Randy Morrison</a>, Five Time Canadian National Fiddle Champion; Eric Jackson, one of Stompin’ Tom’s bass players, and Canadian drumming legend, Al Cross. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/6bcaef1bfa3bc6b6042b60d10ea06634bc1298a3/original/wj-church-beech.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>A regular support band for Stompin’ Tom from 1993, Whiskey Jack has become the voice, or as some have described them, the curators of the Stompin’ Tom music catalogue since his death in 2013.</p>
<p>This all Canadian show, on tour since 2014, celebrates the definitive, if not essential Canadian soundtrack with songs like The Hockey Song, Sudbury Saturday Night, Bud the Spud, Maple Sugar, Margo’s Cargo, Someday Soon and more! </p>
<p>Stompin' Tom’s relationship with Canada is well known having written many of his classic songs while working the fields and factories in our towns and cities hitching rides with us on our local highways. This show will feature many first hand stories about those years.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Nothing fake about this show. </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">STORIES & SONGS OF STOMPIN' TOM</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">October 11, 2018 - Burlington Performing Arts Centre - 8:00pm</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">October 12, 2018 - Free Times Cafe, Toronto, On - 7:30pm</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">October 13, 2018 - Port Stanley Festival Theatre, Port Stanley, On - 7:30pm</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">October 14, 2018 - Commercial Tavern, Maryhill (Guelph) On - 3:00pm</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">To purchase tickets and for more information please visit whiskeyjackmusic.com or www.stompintom.com @banjodunc Twitter) | FB/TributeStompinTom @banjodunc (Instagram)</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Media Contact: Shaun Pilot - 647-853-0057</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/54124932018-09-02T14:48:51-04:002019-09-08T19:52:07-04:00The Deck Is Stacked for this Show! <p style="text-align: center;">For Immediate Release: September 4, 2018 • Please include in your listings/announcements</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Shaun Pilot and 8Horse Music Present</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font_large"><strong>Whiskey Jack - Highlights From 41 Years In Canadian Folk/Roots Music </strong></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font_large"><strong>Free Times Cafe, Toronto, On </strong></span></p>
<p>On <strong>Friday, October 12, 2018,</strong> veteran Canadian All Star band <a contents="Whiskey Jack" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.whiskeyjackmusic.com">Whiskey Jack</a>, will perform highlights from their storied career and segments from their touring show, Stories & Songs of Stompin’ Tom, at The Free Times Cafe, Toronto, On. This Toronto based band, a mainstay on the national music scene since 1977, appeared weekly on the CBC’s Tommy Hunter Show in the 1980’s and in subsequent years, toured/recorded often with “the other Tom”, Stompin’ Tom Connors. They have six critically acclaimed albums to their credit, including their collaborative 1993 recording with Mr. Canada, Dr. Stompin’ Tom… Eh?. This recording project was followed by a national tour.</p>
<p>Whiskey Jack is: <a contents="Duncan Fremlin" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/9NKvcAur0RA">Duncan Fremlin</a>, founding member of Whiskey Jack, Stompin’ Tom’s long time band leader and raconteur on vocals and banjo; <a contents="Cindy Church" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.cindychurch.com">Cindy Church</a>, Country Music Hall of Fame inductee and award winning vocalist; <a contents="Douglas John Cameron" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/fCYNtW6hSzs">Douglas John Cameron</a>, two time Juno Award nominee and multi instrumentalist; <a contents="Randy Morrison" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/fd52E_naw8I">Randy Morrison</a>, Five Time Canadian National Fiddle Champion; Eric Jackson, one of Stompin’ Tom’s favourite bass players.</p>
<p>They’re stacking the deck for this show, celebrating the definitive, if not essential Canadian and Whiskey Jack soundtrack with songs like Hockey Song, Maple Sugar, Someday Soon, and more! This is a rare opportunity to experience the band and guest Country Music Hall of Fame Inductee, Cindy Church in a small intimate setting. Reserve your seats now. It’ll be like hearing them in your living room.</p>
<p>Come early and dine at this legendary cafe, home to the best Canadian acoustic music. Selections on the Middle Eastern/Canadian/Jewish menu will appeal to all dietary needs.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>WHISKEY JACK PRESENTS Highlights from STORIES & SONGS OF STOMPIN' TOM...and more! </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Friday, October 12, 2018</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>FREE TIMES CAFE 320 COLLEGE ST., TORONTO, ON </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Show starts at 7:30pm, Doors at 6:00pm Tickets $25. (+fees)</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">To purchase tickets and for more information please visit www.ticketweb.ca or www.whiskeyjackmusic.com or call 416-967-1078</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">@banjodunc @freetimescafe | FB/TributeStompinTom | @banjodunc (Instagram)</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Media Contact: Shaun Pilot, 647-853-0057</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">The Trademark Name "Stompin' Tom" is used under License from Stompin' Tom Ltd.</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/53925542018-08-18T08:10:19-04:002020-11-26T07:55:52-05:00Nothing Fake About Our Stompin' Tom Show<p>In an era of fake everything (at least that what it seems sometimes), I'm happy to report that there's nothing phony about our show, Whiskey Jack Presents Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom. We sing and play the songs that we learned from the man himself, either while on tour with him in front of thousands of fans, or in his furnace room with just him and his guitar. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/6bcaef1bfa3bc6b6042b60d10ea06634bc1298a3/original/wj-church-beech.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>
<p>The applause we hear each night is Tom's applause. The first time he heard our version of Algoma 69, he smiled and nodded his approval. That's what our show is all about.</p>
<p>And the Stompin' Tom stories? The ones we tell each night? Well, they're authentic also. We know they're real because we were there!</p>
<p>We applaud along with our audience each night. We salute the fans who come to our show and thank them for helping us keep the music and legacy of this great man current and vital. We join them in their belief that Tom's message is too important to forget, and suggest that in the years to come, he'll be honoured and remembered as one of the greatest Canadian performers ever. When we announce to the fans that Tom is to Canada what Robbie Burns is to Scotland and that someday the Government of Canada will recognize his contribution to the country by declaring a day in his name, they often jump to their feet with approval. It's quite a moment.</p>
<p>There's a spirit to our show that sets us apart from the Orbison/Presley tribute shows flooding the live music scene today. If you want something real to present to your audience, call and book this show today. Include it in your 2019/2020 season.</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/53057702018-06-19T22:15:10-04:002020-11-26T06:41:44-05:00Duncan Fremlin and The Good Brothers on the radio<p>Given the domination of the radio airwaves by Rogers, Corus and Bell, it's refreshing to learn that community radio is making a come back. We've been interviewed and supported by many local stations over the years. Their commitment to Canadian culture is unquestioned. </p>
<p>They were particularly supportive of our 2018 Picton show. </p>
<p>Here are two radio programs that we hosted. </p>
<p>The first was <a contents="CIUT-FM on June 12" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://soundcloud.com/banjodunc/canadian-country-music-legends" target="_self">CIUT-FM on June 12</a>. My guests were Brian and Larry Good from The Good Brothers. The stories were crazy and numerous.</p>
<p>I then drove to Picton to host a show called <a contents="UB the DJ on County Fm, 99.3" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://soundcloud.com/banjodunc/stompin-tom-and-good-brothers-music-on-county-fm-2018" target="_self">UB the DJ on County Fm, 99.3</a>. </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/53006822018-06-17T08:52:36-04:002019-09-08T19:52:25-04:00Canadian Country Music Legends...Live!<p>The accolades started arriving almost immediately. The fans of Whiskey Jack and The Good Brothers let us know that they liked this collaboration very much. It was an idea that our promoter Shaun Pilot made happen and it turned out as he planned. The Regent Theatre in Picton was the venue and the date was Friday, June 15, 2018. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/bf3ffd4dba8e22521dfcebabe984e54998428a31/original/wj-bg-picton.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>We began the evening with an hour of Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom....SPONTANEOUS STANDING OVATION! We were thrilled to be sharing the stage with these Canadian legends so this response was quite moving.</p>
<p>We had already enjoyed a lot of time with "the boys" having taped a two hour radio show on the Tuesday. Brian and Larry drove down from the north and we had tons of laughs and spun a few discs. <a contents="Check it out here." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://soundcloud.com/banjodunc/canadian-country-music-legends" target="_blank">Check it out here.</a> By the time we got to Picton, we were all anxious to get the show underway.</p>
<p>The Green Room and the subsequent pre-show dinner offered more opportunities for road stories and many laughs. Class is the best word to describe this group of musicians. They brought along fiddle great Wayne Ferguson and their long time bass player, Kevin Luciani. </p>
<p>It's no surprise that they too brought the fans to their feet! </p>
<p>What a night.</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/52951282018-06-14T08:38:21-04:002021-05-15T14:58:57-04:00The Good Brothers, Stompin' Tom and Cindy ChurchFans of good old fashion Canadian country music don't often get a chance to hear the songs they love in one show, performed by those "who were actually there"! That is about to change. The Good Brothers, Bruce, Brian and Larry have invited Whiskey Jack to bring our show, Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom Connors to their stage, Friday, June 15, 2018 at the Regent Theatre in Picton Ontario.
It'll be a night of Fox on the Run, Sudbury Saturday Night, Hot Knife Boogie, The Hockey Song and more.
The number of years on the stage are impressive numbers: over 50 years for The Goods, over 40 years for The Jack and over 60 years for Stompin' Tom. The show is called Canadian Country Music Legends...Live. Tickets available here.
The next day, June 16, Whiskey Jack travels to Tillsonburg Ontario to sing one of Tom's first hit songs simply called Tillsonburg. The famous line "my back still aches, when I hear that word" will be belted out with feeling (along with all of Tom's hits) at Turtlefest 2018. This is a free event sponsored by the Town of Tillsonburg.
July 1 is the best day to be a Canadian and the best day to sing Stompin' Tom songs. That's one of the reasons we're so excited to be traveling to Tom's homestead in Skinners Pond Prince Edward Island for Canada Day, 2018. We are headlining the annual Stompin' Tom Fest at the new Cultural Centre. This is a good year to visit "the island" don't you think?
We've invited one of Canada's most excellent country and folk singer, Cindy Church to join us or a couple of shows this summer. Besides having an award winning career on her own, she's also a celebrated member of Quartette (with Sylvia Tyson) and Lunch At Allens (with Ian Thomas and Murray McLaughlan). You'll hear Cindy sing songs by Stompin' Tom as well as from her own catalogue at the July 1 show in Skinners Pond and our show on August 3, 2018 at the Stratford Summer Music Festival.
We can always be found at Stompin' Tom's web site, www.stompintom.com
Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/51621472018-04-06T12:57:08-04:002021-12-07T06:25:19-05:00Proud To Be A Canadian 2018 Tour<p>We're very pleased to announce that Whiskey Jack has just signed our 5th licensing agreement with the two organizations that run Tom's affairs, <a contents="Stompin' Tom Ltd." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.stompintom.com" target="_self"><strong>Stompin' Tom Ltd.</strong></a> and their record label, <a contents="Ole Majorly Indie" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.majorlyindie.com/newsRelease.php?NewsReleaseID=751" target="_self"><strong>Ole Majorly Indie</strong></a>. The photo below includes, from left to right, Robert Ott, CEO of Ole, Duncan Fremlin, Manager of Whiskey Jack and Andy Curran, Senior Consultant, Ole. We're all very excited to continue spreading the spirit of the Canadian mosaic associated with Canada's favourite troubadour, Stompin' Tom Connors.</p>
<p>The Whiskey Jack 2018 tour is now geared up for another season of Canadiana, in all it's forms...particularly through music and story. Watch for it at theatres, fairs and festivals across the province. <strong>This is the only show authorized to perform Tom's songs under the Stompin' Tom banner</strong>.</p>
<p><strong>This agreement specifically allows Whiskey Jack and the sponsors of our shows to use Tom's image and his name in the advertising</strong>. Custom designed marketing material is made available to the presenters. This includes poster design, high resolution professional photos, newspaper article template, print advertising images, promotional merchandise, proactive social media campaigns and more. </p>
<p>This show is mirrored after a typical Whiskey Jack/Stompin' Tom performance, one that you might have enjoyed on one of their tours. Whiskey Jack played a lot of these shows with Tom over the years and the rules that Tom laid out were simple..... the content had to be Canadian and had to include Stompin' Toms' hits, some self penned songs as well as songs by the performers who inspired Tom (Wilf Carter). Our shows with Tom also honoured songs by the peers that he respected (Gord Lightfoot) and others who he inspired and helped along the way (Ian Tyson). </p>
<p>Each program is customized to reflect the community where we're playing. The one important thing all the shows have in common is.....they will entertain fans of all musical genres. Everyone will leave the theatre with a smile on their face.</p>
<p><strong>Our fans tell us "we left the theatre feeling very proud to be a Canadian and a whole lot more grateful we live here"!</strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>"Whiskey Jack is one of the best bands I've ever played with".....Stompin' Tom Connors.</strong></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/c3f158828878464dc25342aee655be288c1a6ff9/medium/ott-fremlin-curran.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/51103652018-03-04T09:21:49-05:002021-07-14T02:31:37-04:00Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom On Tour Now!<p><strong>“Whiskey Jack Presents Stories and Songs of Stompin' Tom”</strong> was born shortly after Stompin' Tom died in 2014. However, Whiskey Jack started collecting the songs and stories that eventually became part of this show in 1990 when Duncan Fremlin, Whiskey Jack's leader, toured with Tom for the first time. There were many adventures along the way. </p>
<p>The show is 100% Canadian - not only a portrait of their years on stage with Stompin' Tom, but also anecdotes and songs from their years as cast members on the CBC's Tommy Hunter Show. The show includes a multi-media presentation featuring audio clips and photos from the band's many years on stage with these two Canadian giants. </p>
<p>Whiskey Jack has been on the road since 1977 and with numerous albums and singles to their credit. Their <a contents="“Ol Back Porch”" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/hr7nOcqhXNs">“Ol Back Porch”</a> segment on CBC-TV's Tommy Hunter Show led to other TV specials and appearances on CTV's <a contents="Alan Thicke Show" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/m21dyr6b2V0">Alan Thicke Show</a>. In the 1980's, they were often described as the most televised Canadian country music band in the country. </p>
<p>Many have described Stompin' Tom as “our national voice”, speaking about the day-to-day struggles that we all go through to survive in this severe climate. This voice was born during Tom's travels, having criss crossed the country many times by every means imaginable and being befriended by average Canadians across the country. Whiskey Jack witnessed this each night as they backed up Tom on his stage shows. It was truly moving to watch the connection between Tom and his fans. </p>
<p>Tom's unabashed patriotism is a theme that resonates with the audiences who attend these shows. Tom's uncompromisingly Canadian principles would cost him dearly over the years as he turned his back on opportunities to join the Canadian musical establishment, the same people who shunned him and mocked him when he was first starting out. This too plays a major role in our show. </p>
<p>Our show will feature a mix of Connors' greatest hits, stories and audio recordings of him during performances. If there's a Tom song about your community, we'll sing it! And each night, you'll hear that booming Stompin' Tom voice speaking directly to the audience. We guarantee it will put a smile on your face.</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/50766902018-02-13T08:44:01-05:002023-12-10T14:17:32-05:00Accolades Pour In For Fifth Annual Birthday Celebration<p>It was a fantastic and fairly typical winter afternoon to celebrate Canada and her greatest singers and songwriters. Fantastic because the musicians were in fine form and the songs that they sang were heartfelt and soothing to the northern soul...and typical because it was storming outside. The large and enthusiastic audience was not discouraged by the icy roads (although many out-of-towners didn't make it). <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/f227cf40b3393191cb5aac23a87a086d15333890/small/zoomer-hall.jpg" class="size_s justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/b1b7eadd1801aa98252f11037429fba95e8c7537/small/djc-dun.jpg" class="size_s justify_right border_" /></p>
<p>One fan, a trucker from Sudbury wrote to say he <em>"had a terrific time yesterday - bought the vinyl album -the missus bought me a big t-shirt and your production values were spot on.. perfect acoustics - not one lyric was garbled. Congratulations sir - Kim Stockwood was a knockout! Very distinctive banjo style you got there."</em></p>
<p>Whiskey Jack salutes the fine people at Zoomer Hall. Leanne and Siobhan, Darija and the many others at Zoomer Media were behind this celebration right from the get-go. They didn't hesitate to put their media resources behind the show....radio coverage, interviews, web page support, social media blasts...you name it, they offered it. And as you read from Peter, the production was first class. </p>
<p><em>"It sounded like a CD"</em> was another comment we heard. Music to our ears. </p>
<p>Our guests thrilled all of us with their powerful performances:</p>
<p>Murray Foster - The Bug Song (what a giggle that song is and such fun to sing); <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/fefed659e3e8aa2d3495bd23ab10585e0dfca247/small/murray.jpg" class="size_s justify_left border_" /></p>
<p>Kim Stockwood with Tim Boviconti on guitar - brought tears to our eyes with her new song about Canada and hockey;</p>
<p>Bob McNiven - joined us for our barbershop quartet version of Alberta Rose and again sang a powerful version of his own song, One More Time;</p>
<p>Howard Willett - proved once again why he's Canada's number one harmonica player.</p>
<p>Gary Beechey - Whiskey Jack's official photographer was there recording the day for posterity. You can see his photos on our Facebook page or in this gallery;</p>
<p>Richard Flohil - local celebrity publicist attended - once helped Tom sell out Massey Hall; <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/51ec3b9c48fa009b461f580cb8cb8738d0682390/small/lena-dun-flohil.jpg" class="size_s justify_right border_" /></p>
<p>Tom Mifflin - actor and music arranger provided the scintillating vocal arrangement for Alberta Rose;<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/d04a2425c7d44b37dd87ed5ad3eafdbfe9f60356/small/lena1.jpg" class="size_s justify_left border_" /></p>
<p>And of course, Lovely Lena Connors...once again charmed everyone with her signature tune, The French Song.</p>
<p>Thanks to everyone! Let's do it again next year.</p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/50666512018-02-07T08:16:54-05:002020-11-29T02:17:45-05:00Counting down...to our 5th Annual Stompin' Tom Birthday party<p>As Sunday approaches, we're very excited and ready to one again salute this great Canadian on what would have been his 82nd birthday.</p>
<p>There are a few tickets left at www.HelloOutThere.ca</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/db1d42cd458cfe5ab72827736b2fcf65eefd3890/medium/tom-cake.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>For Immediate Release: February 5, 2018 </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Whiskey Jack & Zoomer Radio </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>present </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>THE FIFTH ANNUAL STOMPIN' TOM BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Zoomer Hall, 70 Jefferson Ave. Toronto On. </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Sunday, February 11, 2018 - 2 pm to 6 pm </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>$40.00 – Click Here ForTickets </strong></p>
<p>Just announced: Kim Stockwood will sing the official <a contents="Hockey Day in Canada" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.sportsnet.ca/hockey/nhl/hockey-day-canada-proud-canadian/">Hockey Day in Canada</a> song. <a contents="Murray Foster" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.murrayfoster.ca">Murray Foster</a> (Great Big Sea, Moxy Fruvous) will sing The Bug Song. You'll also hear a Barbershop Quartet (Three Spuds & A Bud) sing their custom arrangement of a Stompin' Tom song, <a contents="Alberta Rose" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/zoomerradio/videos/10155858925261542/">Alberta Rose</a>..... and more! </p>
<p>More guests announced soon! </p>
<p>Join us for Whiskey Jack's fifth annual celebration of the music and legacy of Mr. Canada, Stompin' Tom Connors. Featuring their successful touring show, Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom, and a roster of Special Guests, this show is a co-production of Zoomer Media, which includes AM 740 (96.7 FM in Downtown Toronto), Classical 96.3 CFMZ -FM and CARP (Canadian Association for Retired Persons). </p>
<p>As in past years, you can expect some very special guests to be on stage with the band. Confirmed guests will be announced soon but as the show's producer Duncan Fremlin says, “you never know who's going to show up! At last year's concert, in one of the worst storms of the winter, we were joined by Gordon Lightfoot, Lena Connors and the Hon. Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.” </p>
<p><a contents="On Thursday, January 18, Duncan Fremlin was interviewed on Am 740 (96.7 FM in Toronto).&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.zoomerradio.ca/videos/duncan-fremlin-visits-happy-gang-invite-5th-annual-stompin-tom-birthday-celebration/">On Thursday, January 18, Duncan Fremlin was interviewed on Am 740 (96.7 FM in Toronto). </a></p>
<p>A regular back-up band for Stompin’ Tom from 1993 to his death, Whiskey Jack will be bringing these songs and more to many theatres, festivals and fairs from the Maritimes to Central Canada. For a list, go to www.stompintom.com </p>
<p>Whiskey Jack is Duncan Fremlin (Vocal & Banjo), Douglas John Cameron (Vocal & Guitar), Randy Morrison (Fiddle) and Jen Cook (Vocal). Supported by Eric Jackson on bass, Al Cross on drums and other musical guests. </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>WHISKEY JACK & guests </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>PRESENT </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Stompin' Tom's 82nd Birthday Party </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Sunday, February 11, 2018 </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Toronto, ON </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>2:00 pm to 6:00 pm </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>416-716-3257 banjodunc@yahoo.ca </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>@zoomermedia @ whiskeyjackmusic @stompintommusic </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>The Trademark Name "Stompin' Tom" is used under License from Stompin' Tom Ltd.</strong></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/50102822018-01-06T10:21:00-05:002019-09-08T19:53:28-04:00Press Release - Annual Stompin' Tom Birthday Show<p>We thank you for your interest and continued support for Stompin' Tom's legacy and for our show, Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom.. </p>
<p>Note the new location and the time. We are grateful to the many of you who drive long distances to attend our shows so hopefully, this earlier start will make for a more enjoyable day. </p>
<p>We have commissioned a short 15 minute theatrical play about Stompin' Tom. It will be presented during the intermission at our show on February 11. </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Whiskey Jack & Zoomer Radio </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>present </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>THE FIFTH ANNUAL STOMPIN' TOM BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Zoomer Hall, <a contents="70 Jefferson Ave. Toronto On." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.google.com/maps/place/70+Jefferson+Ave,+Toronto,+ON+M6K+3H4/@43.6377236,-79.4246645,17z/data=!3m1!4b1!4m5!3m4!1s0x882b3506c5f9ce5f:0x110db2f4c47a7478!8m2!3d43.6377236!4d-79.4224758">70 Jefferson Ave. Toronto On.</a> </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Sunday, February 11, 2018 - 2 pm to 5 pm </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>$40.00 – <a contents="Click Here For Tickets&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.universe.com/events/whiskey-jack-presents-stories-songs-of-stompin-tom-tickets-toronto-ZL2J6D?ref=uniiverse-transactional_emailer-host_posted_listing">Click Here For Tickets </a></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Join us for Whiskey Jack's fifth annual celebration of the music and the legacy of Mr. Canada, Stompin' Tom Connors. Featuring their successful touring show, <a contents="Stories &amp; Songs of Stompin' Tom" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.whiskeyjackmusic.com">Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom</a>, and a roster of Special Guests, this show will be a co-production of Zoomer Media, which includes <a contents="AM 740 (96.7 FM in Downtown Toronto)," data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.zoomerradio.ca">AM 740 (96.7 FM in Downtown Toronto),</a> <a contents="Classical 96.3 CFMZ -FM" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://classicalfm.ca/">Classical 96.3 CFMZ -FM</a> and <a contents="CARP" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.carp.ca/about/#chapters">CARP</a> (Canadian Association for Retired Persons). </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">In the coming weeks, tune into AM 740 (96.7 FM in Toronto) and hear Duncan being interviewed about the birthday celebration and the 2018 tour. </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a contents="Zoomer Hall" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.zoomerradio.ca/locations/zoomer-hall/">Zoomer Hall</a> is a state of the art media facility that features the best in audio and video equipment. As in past years, you can expect some very special guests to be on stage with the band. Confirmed guests will be announced soon but as the show's producer Duncan Fremlin says, “you never know who's going to show up! At last year's concert, in one of the worst storms of the winter, we were joined by Gordon Lightfoot, Lena Connors and the Hon. Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario.” </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">The musical ride at this year's show will be a showcase of the new, 2018 Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom touring show. Highlights will include a modern take on Tom's classic Toronto song, <a contents="TTC Skidaddler" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCYNtW6hSzs&feature=youtu.be">TTC Skidaddler</a>, a Barbershop style arrangement of Alberta Rose and much more from this amazing catalogue of Canadian songs. </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">A regular back-up band for Stompin’ Tom from 1993 to his death, Whiskey Jack will be bringing these songs and more to many theatres, festivals and fairs from the Maritimes to Central Canada. For a list, go to www.stompintom.com </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Whiskey Jack is <strong>Duncan Fremlin</strong> (Vocal & Banjo), <strong>Douglas John Cameron</strong> (Vocal & Guitar), <strong>Randy Morrison</strong> (Fiddle) and <strong>Jen Cook</strong> (Vocal). Supported by Eric Jackson on bass, Al Cross on drums and other musical guests. </p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>WHISKEY JACK & ZOOMER RADIO </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>PRESENT </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Stompin' Tom's 82nd Birthday Party </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Sunday, February 11, 2018 </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Toronto, ON </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>2:00 pm to 6:00 pm </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>416-716-3257 banjodunc@yahoo.ca </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">@zoomermedia @ whiskeyjackmusic @stompintommusic</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/49475302017-11-24T13:06:21-05:002020-11-29T01:30:55-05:00SOCAN Royalties sent to Stompin' Tom<p>As I was walking along the Red Carpet at the Walk of Fame gala, not something that was on my bucket list, I was interviewed 8 times by various media outlets. This is the only one I've seen online. </p>
<p>SOCAN were filming some conversations for their TV channel. <a contents="This was one of them.&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.socan.ca/news/video-interviews-stompin-tom-remembered-family-bandmate-2017-canada%E2%80%99s-walk-fame">This was one of them. </a> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/0f85904b6d60c73e93da73f8f80cdc2c0bc1457f/medium/duncan-interviewed2.jpg/!!/b:W1sidCIsOTBdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/49386402017-11-18T11:24:04-05:002019-09-08T19:54:32-04:00Elite Showcase for Stompin' Tom<p>Last Wednesday was a monster day in the life of our show. We were invited to perform the Hockey Song as part of Stompin' Tom's induction into Canada's Walk of Fame ceremony at the Liberty Grand Ballroom in Toronto. It was a thrill of a lifetime for all of us.</p>
<p>Don Cherry and Ron McLean introduced the segment via video and as we all expected, it was all about "hockey". We then sang a rousing version of The Hockey Song accompanied by an unbelievably good house band. We invited "Prime Minister Mulroney, dignitaries and all of the big stars" to join us in the chorus. We reminded them that Tom was listening and since he was 82 years old, he'd be hard of hearing so they'd have to sing loudly.</p>
<p>The next segment was a montage of videos and photos describing the legendary accomplishments of Stompin' Tom. </p>
<p>Duncan then walked to the podium and invited Tom Jr. and Taw Connors to come to the stage and receive the star. Here was the draft of his introduction: <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/624796f7b4584c7784df9d64ef5e16dd7193056e/original/wj-at-walk-of-fame.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p><em><strong>"It is a great honour for myself and the band to be here this evening, to celebrate this great Canadian showman. </strong></em></p>
<p><em><strong>I got to know Tom and his family on my first cross country tour with them in 1990. We became fast friends. Lots of music played with Tom Sr and lots of hockey with Tom Jr. Now, I get to share the stage from time to time with Lena. </strong></em></p>
<p><em><strong>Over the years, Tom would often call me to bring the band up to the house and play for parties – and we would. </strong></em></p>
<p><em><strong>Five years ago when Tom died, the family gave me the honour of licensing the band to keep the memory of Tom alive through his songs and stories. We now travel the country to make sure that people continue to remember the man and his music. </strong></em></p>
<p><em><strong>As we all know, his music lives on – in every hockey arena, every Karaoke night in every pub in the country – and now that memory will be amplified because of his induction here tonight. </strong></em></p>
<p><em><strong>So, Tom Jr and Taw, please come on up and accept Tom's star!" <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/ec7ef321a8fdd9a78662f0c48d11faf79ec7d0ee/medium/tom-poster.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></strong></em></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/48749682017-10-03T09:30:50-04:002019-09-08T19:54:38-04:00More Testimonial In Our Inbox!<p>The gift that keeps on giving...our July 2 show in Huntsville was one of the many highlights of our summer. Yesterday, Rob Saunders, the General Manager of the Huntsville Festival of the Arts sent these kind words... </p>
<p><strong>"In addition to being a pleasure to present Whiskey Jack, they are the real deal onstage. Their show honours the music and legend of Stompin' Tom but this is by no means a tribute act. What they are, is a group of seasoned pros, excellent musicians all, who play music they love and respect. The audience felt that vibe from the first song and as a presenter that's all you can ask for!" </strong></p>
<p>This photo was taken at that show as Jen Cook and Duncan Fremlin were challenging the all Canadian audience to yell out the provincial capitals in Tom's classic song, Name The Capitals.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/ee1e9cdb6077b38ca88aa82df07b109b260546e0/original/name-the-capitals-huntsville.jpg?1507037394" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Even more testimonials arrived:</p>
<p>Our show in Bancroft this summer was special for many reasons. Besides the perfectly cooked venison they served us at dinner, we were greeted by the perfect hostess, Heather Brough. She operates a first class theatre in this town with a staff devoted to the cause of live music and theatre. It's called the Bancroft Village Playhouse and Heather wrote: </p>
<p><strong>"This summer, Whiskey Jack delighted and entertained our audience with their show at The Bancroft Village Playhouse! The Stories and Songs of Stompin’ Tom was presented in such an amazing format with tales for all and incredible music by a group of masters! Not to be missed!"</strong></p>
<p>After our show at the Gravenhurst Opera House in June, we also received this fantastic message from their Manager, Krista Storey: </p>
<p><strong>‘The Whiskey Jack show was a great success at our theatre. Everyone loved the fun stories about Stompin’ Tom, his connection to our hometown and many others... but the incredible musicianship on the stage was the highlight of the night. They are all such talented musicians who engaged the audience from beginning to end. A great show for the whole family!’ </strong></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/48332322017-08-31T15:12:27-04:002019-09-08T19:54:44-04:00John Farrington, A Great Canadian<p>John Farrington, author, reporter and good friend of Stompin' Tom Connor's, died in his sleep on August 29, 2017. He was 74. At the time of his death, he was anxiously awaiting publication of his most recent project, a coffee table book called "Stompin' Tom's Canada". </p>
<p>A few years ago, I saw a photograph of #stompintommusic, hatless and before he became "Stompin'", greeting former Prime Minister, Lester B. Pearson during a campaign stop in Timmins in 1963. That photo appeared in the local Timmins newspaper and it was taken by John Farrington. Legend has it, John was the first reporter to recognize Tom's genius and publish a story about it. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/2830dd221dc81b85d7af617fbe8bfe5bd307cca1/original/farrington-stc.jpg?1504206155" class="size_l justify_center border_" /> </p>
<p>John was that rarest of Stompin' Tom friends, a newspaper reporter. Tom's opinion of Canadian media is legendary. John however was a trusted friend and was welcomed into Tom's home many times over the years. Many of those visits culminated in the two autobiographies of Tom, Before the Fame and The Connors Tone. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/c7c6d4560a32a64facb61cb51a980e246458d840/small/whats-on-tapp.jpg?1504206654" class="size_s justify_center border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/d7c7df3e76b7be38745760865eccf3a94bb6dfec/small/before-the-fame-book-cover1.jpg?1504206453" class="size_s justify_right border_" /></p>
<p>Tom's wife Lena introduced me to John when I began to tour with my show, #whiskeyjackmusic Presents Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom. We became instant friends, both of us devoted to the memory and legacy of one of Canada's greatest citizens. He told me about working long into the night, often many nights in a row, pouring over the memories that Tom had written, then working to shape hundreds of pages of material into a transcript ready to be published. He had done this before with another great C<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/73e0cda7daaf0eacb219a69dd27c022c85604b56/small/tom-high-res-book-cover2.jpg?1504206517" class="size_s justify_left border_" />anadian, Gordie Tapp (What's On Tapp?). It was a labour of love for John. He said he never received credit as a ghost writer but by anyone's definition, that's exactly what he was. </p>
<p>A meeting with John over coffee or lunch always turned into a fascinating exploration of his history with Tom. One incredible story, always leading into even more stories. </p>
<p>What a life he lived. There are so many great stores left untold. We're all the sadder for it. He will be greatly missed. </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/48283952017-08-28T09:03:30-04:002021-01-30T03:08:30-05:00Fan Appreciation Entry<p>As our summer tour winds down (last show of 2017 at Port Dover on November 4), we can't help but think back on the fantastic fans we've met. Their kind words and robust applause feeds us every night. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/52af7190b30aab35697ea6e43ea864a0ca226383/small/marshall-photo-stockey.jpg?1503925386" class="size_s justify_right border_" /></p>
<p>This morning, I awoke to a Facebook message from a musician who learned his chops in post war England with the Beatles and others. I don't know much about his other than he lives in the Parry Sound area and attended our show last week. His name is Eddie Chippendale.</p>
<p><strong>"Hello Whiskey Jack, just to let you know Duncan, having being in this busy for many years in the 60s and 70s and being a keyboard player with a band in the U.K. and played alongside with many other famous groups and bands such as the Beatles, Rolling Stones and such like, I must say the other night at the Stockey Center I was more than impressed by the talent that was displayed by the band, such a good blend of sound and showmanship, a delight to see and hear, cannot wait for your next visit to Parry Sound, take it from me I know what I am talking about having played with some of the best in the U.K. good luck to you all."</strong></p>
<p>My reply to Eddie:</p>
<p><em>"Good morning Eddie. I want to send you a very grateful "thank you" for your kind words. This is a perfect way to start my day. You undoubtedly know what you're talking about and that is the icing on the cake you just baked for us."</em></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/48268962017-08-26T09:13:26-04:002019-09-08T19:54:56-04:00TV Shoot at Milton Theatre, October 28, 2017<p>We're very pleased to announce that our show on October 28, 2017 at the <a contents="Milton Theatre for the Arts" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://secure1.tixhub.com/milton/online/b_otix.asp?cboPerformances=1032&cboEvent=655&perfcount=1&width=1308">Milton Theatre for the Arts</a> will be filmed by the highly skilled professionals at <a contents="Orchard TV " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://orchardtv.com/">Orchard TV </a>and streamed live on the internet. Dave Ferri and his Orchard TV crew have completely rebuilt and modernized their facilities. Their new mobile studio is state of the art and a thing of beauty. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/cdf136c7af5dd7b9096b7d68e257abd93bcdffd7/original/brochure-nostalgia-page-001-1.jpg?1503753113" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong> <span class="font_large"> For Immediate Release: August 26, 2017 • Please include in your listings/announcements </span></strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Whiskey Jack presents </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>STORIES AND SONGS OF STOMPIN’ TOM </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Appearing at the Milton Centre for the Arts, </strong></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><strong>Saturday, October 28, 2017 - 8:00 pm </strong></p>
<p>Whiskey Jack is a Toronto-based band that has been performing country, roots and bluegrass music across North America since 1977. As a regular backing band for Stompin’ Tom Connors from 1993 to his death, they are now touring with their new show, Whiskey Jack Presents Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom featuring highlights from years of touring together and the stories that were born on those tours. Current Ontario tour dates include Milton, Port Dover, Renfrew, Niagara Falls and Athens. To date, the show has sold over 10,000 tickets in 40+ shows in theatres and festivals across the province. </p>
<p>Canadian Country Music Award nominees, Whiskey Jack have appeared at festivals and in concert from coast-to-coast since 1977; starred on the CBC’s Tommy Hunter show for five years in the 1980s; appeared ed with the likes of legends Mac Wiseman, Carl Perkins and world-famous fiddler Graham Townsend; then hooked-up with Stompin’ Tom in 1993 to record "Dr. Stompin' Tom Connors eh?" Their collaboration took them on a national tour culminating in a sold-out show at Massey Hall, an unprecedented performance on the Conan O'Brien Show and a 25 year relationship. The 2017 release of Tom's most recent CD, the <strong>50th Anniversary</strong> CD features Whiskey Jack's rendition of Algoma Central 69. </p>
<p>They bring their special “Stompin’ Tom Celebrates Canada 150 Show” which will include tales of Canada Day show with Tom and contemporary takes on his classic hits; songs like Bud the Spud, Sudbury Saturday Night, Lady kd lang, and Margo’s Cargo. The show is presented in the tradition of a live Tom show, often funny, sometimes extraordinary, always heartfelt. </p>
<p>This evening will be filmed by Orchard TV and streamed live on the internet. </p>
<p>Whiskey Jack is Duncan Fremlin (Banjo and raconteur), Randy Morrison (Five Time National Bluegrass Fiddle Champion), Douglas Cameron (Guitar and Juno nominee), , Bob McNiven (Vocalist), Eric Jackson (Double Bass), Howard Willett, (Harmonica), Jen Cook (Vocalist), and Al Cross (Drums). </p>
<p><em>“It was a long hard bumpy road, but this great country kept me inspired with its beauty, character, and spirit, driving me to keep marching on and devoted to sing about its people and places that make Canada the greatest country in the world.”</em> Stompin’ Tom Connors</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/48255652017-08-25T09:38:53-04:002020-11-26T07:17:01-05:00Revised Program Published Soon<p>My good friend and an important part of the Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom entourage Jim Baine is the man primarily responsible for the Canada 150 Program that we've been giving away at our shows this summer. It's a very impressive publication with essays by the Rt. Hon. Adrienne Clarkson, John Farrington (Tom's ghost writer), Jim Bain and me, Duncan Fremlin. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/f46c9139f16495338d34d06d7f31114ff3204ca5/medium/wj-tom-program-table-of-contents-page-001.jpg?1503668191" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>We're happy to report that Jim is working at a new version that will be available at our 2018 shows. There'll be a few more stories from my tours with Stompin' Tom and a story or two from a couple of surprise contributors. To reserve your copy, email your name and mailing address to banjodunc@yahoo.ca. </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/47941132017-07-27T11:56:02-04:002020-11-26T01:20:17-05:00Taking Stock! Where We've Been...Where We're Going<p>Here at Whiskey Jack head office, we sat down with our pencil and abacas to figure out how many shows we've performed since this tour began in 2014 and we were amazed to discover:</p>
<p># Shows - 38</p>
<p># Fans who have attended these shows - 9500</p>
<p># Shows booked into 2018 - 10</p>
<p># Songs in repertoire....A LOT!</p>
<p># CD's released featuring Whiskey Jack and Stompin' Tom - 3</p>
<p># Videos posted on our Youtube Channel - not sure but over 25 for sure!</p>
<p><a contents="# Videos that have gone viral" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/fd52E_naw8I" target="_blank"># Videos that have gone viral</a> - 1 (last time we looked, there were 89,935 views!)</p>
<p># Webcasts featuring scenes from our show - 2</p>
<p># Standing Ovations - at least 30!</p>
<p># Songs written to promote our campaign to make the Whiskey Jack our national bird - 1</p>
<p>Yes, it's been quite a ride .... <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/45d92f0525e1868e288168b4eedb9e8195988955/medium/wj-huntsville.jpg?1501170840" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>2:58Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/47919922017-07-25T17:23:50-04:002019-09-08T19:55:20-04:00This Show Will Visit The Maritime Provinces in 2018<p>We're thrilled to announce that we will be bringing our show to the Maritime provinces between September 21 and October 2, 2018. We're beginning to book dates right now!</p>
<p>Over the past few years, there has been a great deal of interest from outside Ontario. Many theatres and community organizations have expressed interest in having us perform at their venue and town. We're thrilled that we can finally honour some of these requests.</p>
<p>We expect to be in New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and PEI from September 21 to October 2, 2018. Newfoundland is not on our list for 2018 but that could change. </p>
<p>On my first two tours with Tom in the 1990's, he travelled in his Suburban. We haven't determined our mode of transport yet but I'm pretty sure it'll be larger than a Suburban. Does anyone remember what his license plate number was? I'll send you a copy of Tom's new 50th Anniversary CD if you know the right answer.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/abc2113b5095fbc1f8d2826d6a6afcacb5eaba18/original/stc-suburban-1.jpg?1501018203" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p> </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/47671692017-07-04T21:22:52-04:002019-09-08T19:55:27-04:00The Real Canada Day Party Was in Wawa...not Ottawa!<p>I'M NOT SURE when the Canadian flags began to appear in great numbers but by the time we got to Webbwood, they were impossible to ignore - they were everywhere. </p>
<p>IT WAS TWO days before the July 1 party was to begin and we were on our way to Wawa to perform our Canada 150 show. Stompin' Tom's music was going to return to Wawa to help that famous town celebrate the unveiling of their new goose. It was obvious that the country, or at least Northern Ontario, was in the mood for a party, the incessant rain be-damned. </p>
<p>FRONT YARDS, car dealerships, restaurants, waitresses, cars and tractors were emblazoned with red and white maple leafs, a sharp but welcome contrast to the grey and bleak landscape that comes with relentless rain, day after day. </p>
<p>WE WATCHED some of the national news when we arrived that night and all the attention was on the armed guards watching over Parliament Hill. Even though this was going to be the image the rest of the country was going to see all weekend, the real celebration was in the hinterland, in places like Wawa and the Soo and Bar River. </p>
<p>THERE WERE no rifles or soldiers in Wawa, only moms and dads and kids wishing each other "Happy Canada Day" as they hurried to open the door for their neighbour at the local Tim Horton's. It felt like Christmas morning and I must say, I felt, and continue to feel, quite moved by the experience. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/36075149b170376df66182e3920e318d3ae7982d/medium/wj-wawa.jpg?1499217524" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>
<p>THE WAWA MUSIC FESTIVAL was the driving force that made our appearance possible. The organizers had arranged for a full weekend of music performed by local bands and singers, all singing their music for their friends and neighbours. Our show was on June 30th and the "who's who" in Michipicoten were there and they were in the mood for a party. As part of our show, Jen Cook and I wander into the crowd and ask the crowd to yell our the provincial capitals as we sing Tom's song, "Name The Capitals". Each town reacts differently but the crowd in Wawa was loud and rambunctious. Even the Mayor got into the act. It was quite something. </p>
<p>THE NEXT DAY, July 1, we arrived that morning at the Roberta Bondar Pavilion in Sault Ste. Marie to a massive crowd already in celebratory mood. They partied all day. The cool clouds at our afternoon show turned into cloudless skies for our evening shows...just in time for the fireworks. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/0b94e12bd8ccbdc3c1f9b350f45354e98f9ed9ab/medium/wj-soo-crowd.jpg?1499217656" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>
<p>WE PERFORMED ON PARLIAMENT HILL with Stompin Tom in 1993. There were over 500,000 people there...and it was broadcast to 3 million Canadians on the CBC. Still, that was nothing to the emotion we all felt in the Soo last Saturday. It was a spontaneous outburst of affection for all things Canadian. The crowd was giddy with delight when Jen and I ran through the audience asking "CAN ANYONE HERE NAME THE CAPITAL OF.....?". </p>
<p>THEN, AWAKE AT 4:30 am and on to Huntsville to cap off the best Canada Day weekend ever. The 2:00 pm show at the Algonquin Theatre was a love-in...pure and simple. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/6af5ef494242cd4548c4de3a12c2e56ea7b3e0f1/medium/wj-live-in-huntsville-best.jpg?1499217749" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>We slept well that night. </p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/47382672017-06-08T15:21:14-04:002019-09-08T19:56:40-04:00ole Label Group Celebrates 50 Years of Stompin' Tom Connors With Exclusive Collector's Album<p>That is the heading from Ole Music's press release yesterday. This was the first official announcement of the new CD that we've been telling everyone about.</p>
<p>"ole Label Group / Anthem Legacy" released the details of this project and at first glance, it looks like a winner. Below is the text:</p>
<p> <br><strong>Stompin' Tom Connors </strong></p>
<p><strong>Features New Renditions by The Jim Cuddy/Polley Family Band, George Canyon, Corb Lund and Whiskey Jack With Album Foreword by Ken Dryden </strong></p>
<p><strong>Toronto, ON - Anthem Legacy, an imprint of ole Label Group, is celebrating the 50th Anniversary of one of Canada's most prolific and iconic artists, Stompin' Tom Connors. June 30, 2017 (ole Label Group / Anthem Legacy) sees the release of the Stompin' Tom Connors 50th Anniversary self-titled CD. In association with Canada 150 and an introduction from NHL Legend and Hockey Hall of Famer Ken Dryden, this special edition release will include all of Stompin' Tom's timeless classics. The album also features four new renditions from notable Canadian Country stars including; The Cuddy/Polley Family Band, Corb Lund, George Canyon and Whiskey Jack. </strong></p>
<p><strong>"We're extremely excited and proud at ole to release this Stompin' Tom Connors collector's set, said Andy Curran, who is A&R'ing the project at Anthem. "We've managed to assemble a collector's edition that will satisfy the most loyal fan but also to excite a new generation of fans as these great songs really transcend generations and speak to all Canadians." </strong></p>
<p><strong>"On behalf of myself and Tom's family, we would like to congratulate ole on its first ever Stompin' Tom release, due out on the most fitting of days, July 1, 2017," said Tom Connors Jr. "It shows that ole is determined to be at the forefront of the Canadian independent music industry to promote and preserve the great talent this country has to offer to itself and the world, especially on this important 150th year of celebration. Three cheers to ole, and we look forward to working with them on many more great Canadian musical projects!" </strong></p>
<p><strong>On July 1, 1967, Tom Connors was performing at the King George Tavern in Peterborough, Ontario where he was introduced for the first time as "Stompin' Tom Connors". Fifty years later, Stompin' Tom has become one of Canada's most treasured artists. In honour of his musical legacy, the newly constructed Stompin' Tom Centre in Stompin' Tom's hometown of Skinners Pond P.E.I. will host an official grand opening on July 1, 2017. The centre will be home to a Stompin' Tom installation, a 120-seat performance space, snack bar, out-door deck, and gift shop, where Stompin' Tom's newly designed merchandise will debut. The grand opening will also feature the 1st Annual Stompin' Tom Fest from July 1-2. The two-day concert will feature live musical performances from Dave Gunning, JP Cormier, Gordie Mackeeman and the Rhythm Boys, Mike Plume and Minglewood with more artists to be announced in the coming weeks. </strong></p>
<p><strong>With his homespun and fiercely patriotic brand of music, Stompin' Tom's rich musical legacy includes Canadian country chart topping hits "Bud the Spud", "Luke's Guitar", "Sudbury Saturday Night", "Big Joe Mufferaw", "Ketchup Song" and Canadian anthem "The Hockey Song". Stompin' Tom's accolades include JUNO Awards for Best Male Country Singer (1971 - 75) and Country Album of the Year (1978), the East Coast Music Awards Lifetime Achievement Award, SOCAN National Achievement Award (1999), SOCAN Lifetime Achievement Award (2009), the Governor General's Performing Arts Award (2000), Toronto Musicians' Union Lifetime Achievement Award (2011), and was the subject of a postage stamp issued in Canada Post's recording artist series. </strong></p>
<p><strong>Stompin' Tom Connors Album Track List </strong></p>
<p><strong>1. Sudbury Saturday Night (Live at The Horseshoe) <br>2. The Hockey Song <br>3. Bud the Spud <br>4. Tillsonburg <br>5. The Ketchup Song <br>6. The Moon-Man Newfie <br>7. Luke's Guitar <br>8. Big Joe Mufferaw <br>9. The Bug Song <br>10. A Real Canadian Girl <br>11. To It and At It <br>12. Lady, K.D. Lang <br>13. Margo's Cargo <br>14. My Stompin' Grounds <br>15. Corb Lund - The Consumer <br>16. The Cuddy / Polley Family Band - Don Valley Jail <br>17. Whiskey Jack - Algoma Central #69 <br>18. George Canyon - The Hockey Song </strong></p>
<p><strong>Listen to Stompin' Tom Connors Self-titled Album here. </strong></p>
<p><strong>For more information please contact: </strong></p>
<p><strong>Samantha Pickard <br>Strut Entertainment <br>samantha@strutentertainment.com <br>647.405.1715 </strong></p>
<p><strong>Or <br>Laura Steen <br>Strut Entertainment <br>laura@strutentertainment.com <br>416.300.9254 </strong></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/47136632017-05-18T12:29:18-04:002020-11-26T10:05:20-05:00New Stompin' Tom Recording in the works!<p>We're very pleased to announce that Stompin' Tom's new record label, Ole Majorly Indie will soon be releasing a Canada 150 CD featuring previously unreleased songs from the Tom Connor's vault and...new versions of some of his classics presented by George Canyon, the Rheostatics, Jim Cuddy, Corb Lund and Whiskey Jack. I haven't heard what songs the other performers are recording but Ole has requested that they include our version of <a contents='"Algoma Central No. 69".' data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://youtu.be/hJS3M9IgkDs">"Algoma Central No. 69".</a> Our reply was "YES".</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/ebfbe02f0dece6cf02571fafe29c619d53bc18cb/small/img-2919.jpg?1492520716" class="size_s justify_center border_" />Ole and their artist rep, Andy Curran and Whiskey Jack are committed to expanding the Stompin' Tom brand by bringing his music to a new generation of fans. This new CD will go along way towards making that a reality. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/2495e052099d3ae163f1f8adfcd3737c5cca2f10/medium/stc-and-beaver.jpg?1495316709" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/46834152017-04-25T12:15:43-04:002019-09-08T19:56:52-04:00Stompin' Tom Fans Continue To AmazeAgain, on Saturday night in Pembroke, the Stompin' Tom fans we've grown to love, admire and appreciate stood tall!<br><br>During our intermission, we received a copy of a "Parody of Sudbury Saturday" night, written by Beachburg Ontario native, Erma Bennett Johnson. It's a brilliant piece of literature in the tradition of Stompin' Tom Connors and here's a sample. <br><br><strong>"There's tipsy Shirley Collins and inebriated Linda,<br>There's plastered Velma Hawthorne gettin' tight...but that's alright,<br>There's intoxicated Naida and on a bender, Gladys Powers,<br>And Eleanor is loaded on this Beachburg Saturday night."</strong><br><br>As it turns out, the ladies mentioned in this verse (they call themselves the Ladies of Beachburg) are 12 in total. All of them were in attendance at our Pembroke show. Also, if that wasn't cool enough, I spoke to Erma, the author of that verse, and she told me all of the ladies who were there were (a) quite senior, as in 90 years of age and under and, (b) all teetotallers and, (c) all rode over in a stretch white limo. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/052918289912f4c1ca416607d36fd18ab8d6d10d/medium/limo-photo-red.jpg?1493136769" class="size_m justify_center border_" />I have many more "fan" stories to share in the months to come. <br> Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/46749422017-04-18T09:08:54-04:002019-09-08T19:57:00-04:00Our First Sudbury Saturday Night Without Tom<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/d66b4b234d958a817ea0ee5696752a578d90236f/original/img-2922.jpg?1492520677" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Last Saturday, Whiskey Jack performed their 3rd show on their 2017 Canada 150 tour and what a show it was! A real Sudbury Saturday Night. The audience was loud and rambunctious as only a Stompin' Tom audience can be. Dancing in the aisles...hoots and hollers...clapping and whistles... all in appreciation for the songs and stories. <br><br>Near the end of the night, just before we closed it all out with a rousing version of Sudbury Saturday Night, we spotted a real Canadian girl in the audience...a real Canadian beauty. Her name was Nicole and she accepted our invitation to join us on stage as we serenaded her by singing Tom's great song, "Real Canadian Girl". The guys in the band were each treated to a kiss on the cheek. Thanks Nicole. She favoured us later with this very wonderful email. <br><br><strong>"Had sooooo much fun at the Sudbury theatre April 15. The band Whiskey Jack was fantastic, so friendly during their show I felt so proud to be Canadian . I was singing every songs I loved it. I was honoured when they asked me to come on stage for the song of Canadian Girl. Thank you so very much I love all you guys. If you are ever in Sudbury use my email and come for supper. I love to cook especially for special people. You will always have a special place in my heart❤"</strong><br><br>We thank the great Sudbury fiddler Donnie Reed for filling in for Randy on this night. We also appreciate Douglas Cameron driving all the way from Carling on a rainy night for the show. Great performance as usual. And of course, I had to make a pilgrimage to the statue! <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/f77bc1a6023577c687d1c935deb2ddd5349d9c14/medium/img-2923.jpg?1492520679" class="size_m justify_left border_" /><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/73983df2b2fe982260b3548656cc3fc726e7e63f/medium/img-2914.jpg?1492520721" class="size_m justify_right border_" /><br><br><br><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/ebfbe02f0dece6cf02571fafe29c619d53bc18cb/medium/img-2919.jpg?1492520716" class="size_m justify_center border_" />Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/46492072017-03-28T17:14:03-04:002020-11-26T01:05:24-05:00Stompin' Tom Invited to Canada 150 PartyWhiskey Jack's campaign to ensure that Stompin' Tom will play a major role in the Canada 150 celebrations received a significant boost today. We recently woke up to some amazing media coverage about our Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom Canada 150 summer tour.<br><br>In the Sault Star, reporter <a contents="Brian Kelly " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.saultstar.com/2017/03/25/sault-hosts-stompin-toms-band-july-1">Brian Kelly </a>published a terrific article about our much anticipated July 1 visit to the Soo. Brian has written about us before and "nails it" every time!<br><br>In last week's Toronto Sun, there is another very excellent article written by longtime newspaper man, <a contents="Jim Baine" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.torontosun.com/2017/03/25/stompin-tom-lives-on-in-northern-ontario">Jim Baine</a>. Jim writes as an authority on Stompin' Tom and our show. In the 1980's, he wrote a play about Tom and his songs. More recently, he attended our Stories & Songs show Timmins in October, 2016 (and has seen more shows since).<br><br>Last week, <a contents="Dave Flaherty " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.thepost.on.ca/2017/03/23/songs-and-stories-of-stompin-tom-connors-coming-to-hanover">Dave Flaherty </a>from Post Media came through with another well written article about our April 9, 2017 show in Hanover Ontario (another great Stompin' Tom town if ever there was one).<br><br>It's been a great week for Stompin' Tom on another front. His son, Tom Jr. announced that Stompin' Tom Ltd. has signed <a contents="a new record deal with Ole" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://whiskeyjackmusic.com/home/blog/stompin-tom-ltd-signs-with-ole">a new record deal with Ole</a>, an independent music publishing and rights management company. Included in this deal will be the production and release of a compilation CD featuring Canadian performers singing a Stompin' Tom song. Whiskey Jack is very pleased to announce that "we will be included in this project".<br><br>Recently, Whiskey Jack spent a day at Marquee Sound in Toronto recording our new song, "If Stompin' Tom Was Our National Bird". It will soon be available for downloading. Watch for it on our web site over the next week or so. We wrote the song in support of a national campaign to declare the Whiskey Jack (aka, Canada Jay) our national bird. We're now part of a dedicated group of about 35 volunteers (bird lovers, ornithologists, politicians) from across the country who are lobbying the Federal Government to make this official. You'll be hearing more about "Team Gray Jay" in the weeks to come.<br><br>For a complete list of where we'll be this summer and details on how to get tickets, go to www.stompintom.com or call Duncan at 416-716-3257Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/46375442017-03-20T15:19:32-04:002022-03-25T06:19:19-04:00Surprise Visitor to our last Cadillac Lounge ShowOur friend John Miller, Artistic Producer for the Stratford Summer Music Festival dropped into our Caddie show last week. He blessed us with these kind words. <p><strong>"It was, as always, a terrific show! What is so clear is the tightness of your performance, a feat that comes from years of close affiliation, camaraderie and playing together." <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/3f5e0ce6c6422e6a01cf6e3f6910862be0bd6468/medium/john-miller.jpg?1490037208" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></strong></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/46338072017-03-17T08:10:53-04:002019-09-08T19:57:22-04:00Stompin' Tom Ltd. Signs With Ole <strong>Below you'll find the press release that was published this week. Tom Jr. told me this was in the works a few weeks ago but it was only finalized last week. Tom's old label, Universal Canada is still in the family. They will be distributing the CD's. <br><br>Part of the deal will be the production and release of a compilation CD featuring Canadian performers singing a Stompin' Tom song. Whiskey Jack is very pleased to learn that we will be included in this package. In fact, Andy Curran (in the photo) has already emailed me to arrange a meeting. I'm very excited to discuss some possibilities with Andy. After touring with our Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom show for over 3 years, we have a lot of songs and ideas that we're eager to share with Ole. </strong><br><br><em>TORONTO, ON - ole, the world's fastest-growing independent music publishing and rights management company, announced today it has signed an exclusive, worldwide 360 deal to curate the music and personality legacy of iconic Canadian artist Stompin' Tom Connors. Under the deal, ole will manage publishing and master distribution rights, Connor's YouTube presence, merchandising and trademark licensing rights.<br><br>"We're very proud to be entrusted with the legacy of one of the greatest, Canadian artists of all time and we look forward to the opportunity to broaden the audience of Stompin' Tom's iconic music and personality in the years to come," said Robert Ott, CEO. </em><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/9e668a43ac8c04656a2384c7c21816622de2be0b/original/ole-and-tom-jr.jpg?1489752463" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><p>From left to right: Tyler Hurst, Senior Acquisitions Analyst, ole, Robert Ott, CEO, ole, Tom Connors Jr., Andy Curran, General Manager, Label Services A&R, ole</p><br><em>Connors, hailed as the unofficial Canadian poet laureate, is credited with writing more than 300 songs with total sales in excess of 4 million copies. With his homespun and fiercely patriotic brand of music, Connors rich musical legacy includes Canadian country chart topping hits "Bud the Spud", "Luke's Guitar", "The Bridge Came Tumbling Down", "Sudbury Saturday Night", "Big Joe Mufferaw", "Ketchup Song" and Canadian anthem "The Hockey Song". Connor's accolades include JUNO Awards for Best Male Country Singer (1971-75) and Country Album of the Year (1978), the East Coast Music Awards Lifetime Achievement Award, SOCAN National Achievement Award (1999), SOCAN Lifetime Achievement Award (2009), the Governor General's Performing Arts Award (2000), Toronto Musicans' Union Lifetime Achievement Award (2011), and was the subject of a postage stamp issued in Canada Post's recording artist series.<br><br>"The Connors family would like to thank ole and its staff who have been nothing less than sincerely excited and most helpful in working with us to bring Stompin' Tom and his great Canadian music to their organization," said Tom Connors Jr. "They have shown us the same top notch level of professionalism and courteousness that we had been accustomed to over the decades. We look forward to this new relationship where ole, along with Stompin' Tom, during his own 50th anniversary, will help celebrate Canada in song to the world during its own 150th celebrations this year and beyond."</em>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/46323272017-03-16T10:16:38-04:002019-09-08T19:57:28-04:00Summer Tour Begins SoonWe've been polishing and organizing and rehearsing and generally getting all geared up for our Canada 150 Summer Tour. Check out this poster and see if we're going to be in a town near you....maybe we'll see your smiling face in the audience? If you do attend, please introduce yourself to the band. We love to meet Tom's fans. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/c12f09a171bf89b1ae3e01221c798458e01850b9/original/wj-2017-tour-flyer.jpg?1489673756" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/46000052017-02-21T08:53:18-05:002020-11-26T09:17:09-05:00Review of 4th Annual Stompin' Tom Celebration<span class="font_large">There's an online publication called <a contents="fyimusicnews.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.fyimusicnews.com">fyimusicnews.c</a>a that has become the go-to publication for the Canadian music industry. As far as I can tell, everyone in the industry reads it, every day. That's quite an accomplishment given the pathetic state of journalism today.<br><br>Whiskey Jack's press releases are sent to the editor, David Farrell on a fairly regular basis. Sometimes, he reports our news and we're grateful. Recently, he did just that:<br><br><strong><em>"The fourth annual Stompin’ Tom tribute concert at Toronto’s Cadillac Lounge on Sunday was reportedly a major success. Hosted by ace roots combo Whiskey Jack, it featured appearances by Douglas Cameron and author David McFarlane, while Tom’s widow Lena guested on a song. VIP's in attendance included Ontario's Lieutenant-General, and the audience got a huge thrill out of seeing Gordon Lightfoot walk in to catch the show."</em></strong></span>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/45887192017-02-13T18:07:34-05:002019-09-08T19:57:43-04:00Hightlights of Our Very Successful 4th Annual Birthday CelebrationI'm sitting here in my office, the day after, glowing in the many memories that were created at the Cadillac Lounge yesterday. Where to begin?<br><br>There were a lot of skilled photographers there and I'm hoping they pass along some of their work. I'll post them here when they send me the photos and films. <br><br><strong>The Best Fans:</strong> First of all, many of the fans drove in the worst possible conditions to get there so we were determined to make sure they went home happy and sharing in our delight. It was a major show storm and everyone from out of town had to drive through it. Chris Hum from Prescott drove 6 hours in stop-and-go traffic and helped out with his great camera skills. I hope to have some to share soon. He also brought his Taylor guitar...more about that later. <br><br>There were three young fans who drove from Barrie through white-outs on the 400 ("no problem, we do it all the time") because her dad introduced her to Stompin' Tom before he died. They bought a CD. Perhaps it was a sort of pilgrimage for her. The town of Sunridge sent a contingent, as did Bracebridge, Alliston and other towns I can't recall. The guy from the Soo also bought a CD. <br><br><strong>Class Act:</strong> Shortly into our first set, we welcomed the Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario. We knew she was coming and had a special set so songs just for her. Roll on Saskatchewan to salute her teaching days in Swift Current; Douglas Cameron's version of Stompin' Tom's famous song, "little k, little d, little lang"; Then there was Moon Man Newfie, a salute to her love of classical music (you had to be there); Our new song, "If Stompin' Tom Was Our National Bird" hoping she would lobby the powerful people in her rolodex in the hopes we can get this bird officially declared Canada's National Bird. <br><br><strong>Our volunteers</strong>, Joan Allison, brother Jason Fremlin and Mary Ellen Morganstern did a fantastic job making sure everyone had a great seat and were happy. <br><br><strong>Whiskey Jack</strong>: This band of merry musicians performed brilliantly as they always do. Bob's Gumboot Cloggeroo was outrageously good as always; Jen's Margo's Cargo was animated and entertaining as hell; Howard's Roll on Saskatchewan brought a tear to those from the Prairies; Randy wowed them with his fiddle stylings and the Rock Brothers, (Al Cross and Eric Jackson) held it all together. As for me, I debuted the cordless mic rendition of Name The Capitals. <br><br><strong>Name the Capitals:</strong> Tom Jr. sent me 13 gifts from Stompin' Tom Headquarters and I dolled them out as I walked through the crowd, belting out each verse....one for each province and territory. I was in the hunt for knowledgeable fans who could yell out the correct capitals. 10 provinces, 3 territories = 13 gifts. They were great gifts, song books, t-shirts, Xmas decorations that played the Hockey Song and more. Consensus is, Stompin' Tom fans are very smart and know all of the capitals. <br><br><strong>Author and Musician</strong>: To begin the second set, we were treated to a unique performance by a duo that is presently touring the country with a different kind of show that includes spoken word/music accompaniment show. It's called <a contents="The Door You Came In" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.facebook.com/thedooryoucamein/">The Door You Came In</a>. The duo includes renowned Canadian author David MacFarlane (wore a fantastic but dated tie) who recited his interpretation of Luke's Guitar and, on ukulele, Juno Award Nominee, Douglas John Cameron. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/9def28f30f78fb74443185ba415c7b6940dd8ff9/small/cameron-and-macfarlane.jpg?1487026776" class="size_s justify_right border_medium" alt="" /> <br><br><strong>Spiritual Highlight:</strong> Jen leaned over in the second set and asked if she could sing "Song For A Winter's Night," the Gordon Lightfoot classic. As she began the second verse, in walked Gordon Lightfoot and his wife Kim, big grin on his face when he heard the song we were singing. The crowd recognized him immediately and sprang to their feet! The respect and love was palpable. He's one of the few performers from our generation who can inspire that kind of response...but then, he's been an important part of our lives forever! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/460a970d79c0cc678740ae676c5ccf48d31b1625/medium/wj-with-lightfoot.jpg?1487026349" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><br><br><strong>Tom Stories:</strong> A few minutes later, he joined us, without his guitar this year, and spent a few minutes reminiscing about his encounters with Tom. One gig they did together was an Government of Canada show that Gordon thought of as a freebie. Tom thought otherwise and made some noise about at least getting scale. He was asked to release the film footage of the show but he refused. If they weren't going to pay him for the gig, they most certainly were not going to use this footage for free. That brought more than a few chuckles from Gordon and Tom's wife Lena.<br><br>He took time to praise the band and then leaned over to me and said, "you're banjo playing is fabulous...sounds like an orchestra". <br><br><strong>Mrs. Connors:</strong> Tradition has it at these annual parties that Tom's wife Lena joins the band for her version of the French Song, a song she and Tom recorded many years ago... and yesterday was no exception. It's a real thrill to stand on stage and sing to her as she bops and smiles to our music. Her attendance means a lot to us. <br><br>Oh...the cake! It was delicious...and beautiful. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/9cc64d3cc34188c9a17f7a0478594ddb3898beb1/small/stc-cake.jpg?1487026378" class="size_s justify_center border_" /><br> Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/45718122017-02-01T08:57:29-05:002019-09-08T19:58:44-04:00Nice Tweets From Brian Kelly, Reporter with Sault Star<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p dir="ltr" lang="en">Bar River native salutes Stompin' Tom's music in upcoming radio show. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/saultnews?src=hash">#saultnews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sault?src=hash">#sault</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/thesoo?src=hash">#thesoo</a> <a href="https://t.co/Z6Hz2DaO2o">https://t.co/Z6Hz2DaO2o</a> <a href="https://t.co/5RouHOLBor">pic.twitter.com/5RouHOLBor</a></p>— Brian Kelly (@Saultreporter) <a href="https://twitter.com/Saultreporter/status/826785250915262464">February 1, 2017 </a>
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<p dir="ltr" lang="en"><a href="https://twitter.com/Saultreporter/status/826785250915262464">Algoma Central 69 will be played during Stompin' Tom tribute. Updated brief. </a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/saultnews?src=hash">#saultnews</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/sault?src=hash">#sault</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/thesoo?src=hash">#thesoo</a> <a href="https://t.co/Y1BsYtC8Vu">https://t.co/Y1BsYtC8Vu</a> <a href="https://t.co/rSyiaNMSAE">pic.twitter.com/rSyiaNMSAE</a></p>— Brian Kelly (@Saultreporter) <a href="https://twitter.com/Saultreporter/status/826792663118651394">February 1, 2017</a>
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</blockquote><script async src="//platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script><br><br><strong>These tweets are in response to the following press release that we recently sent:<br><br><em>As a warm up to this show, Duncan will be hosting an hour long "Stompin' Tom/Canada 150" special on CIUT-FM, 89.5, Feb. 7th at noon. Listen online or checkout the podcast when it's uploaded at a later date. He'll play some of Tom's patriotic songs and tell some stories about Tom's passion for Canada and it's people.<br><br>His guest will be John Farrington, a local author, retired journalist and one of Tom's oldest friends. John has written a new book about Stompin' Tom and expects it to be published later this year.<br><br>We hope to see you soon.<br><br>Duncan, Bob, Jen, Randy, Al, Eric and Howard</em></strong>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/45231402016-12-23T09:08:41-05:002019-09-08T19:58:55-04:00Wawa Gets A New GooseThe town of Wawa was an important stop for Stompin' Tom in his early years hitchhiking across Canada. He passed through and performed often in Wawa over the years. In fact, one of his earliest songs was "Little Wawa". It was a hit and he sold a lot of copies of this record.<br><br>The "goose" that is mentioned in the song has been in bad repair for many years and the community has been trying to raise money to refurbish it. Thankfully, the entire <a contents="goose will be replaced" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.sootoday.com/local-news/wawa-goose-to-be-replaced-not-repaired-says-town-offical-494734">goose will be replaced</a> and the town will continue to enjoy this symbol of the north. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/293eae9f69186d8454fac0f47e558b3e2421dc65/medium/wawa-goose-shutterstock-2016.jpg?1482501974" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><br><br><a contents="This is our version of Tom's song. " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/BVaiv_ek0sk">This is our version of Tom's song. </a> Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/44882482016-11-29T08:41:44-05:002019-09-08T19:59:03-04:00Our Guiding Light, Tom's Letter To the NationWhenever the members of Whiskey Jack get together and reflect on this odyssey we're on, singing the songs and telling the stories of Stompin' Tom Connors, we think of the letter Tom wrote to the nation shortly before he died. It keeps us focused and inspired.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/2178ce8ff659cbed8eeecb4a7f285750da70d745/medium/stc.jpeg?1480426885" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><br><br><em><span class="font_large">Hello friends,<br><br>I want all my fans, past, present, or future, to know that without you, there would have not been any Stompin' Tom. It was a long hard bumpy road, but this great country kept me inspired with its beauty, character, and spirit, driving me to keep marching on and devoted to sing about its people and places that make Canada the greatest country in the world.<br><br>I must now pass the torch, to all of you, to help keep the Maple Leaf flying high, and be the Patriot Canada needs now and in the future.<br><br>I humbly thank you all, one last time, for allowing me in your homes, I hope I continue to bring a little bit of cheer into your lives from the work I have done.<br><br>Sincerely,<br><br>Your Friend always,<br><br>Stompin' Tom Connors</span></em>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/44714472016-11-17T08:29:53-05:002019-09-08T19:59:10-04:00The Whiskey Jack, Canada's National BirdTwo years ago, as published on the Royal Canadian Geographic Society's web site, this was the news of the day across the country:<p><em>"There are more than 450 species of birds across Canada, but until now, not one of them has been designated as our national bird. In 2015, the team at Canadian Geographic decided it was time to change that, and founded the National Bird Project with the aim of declaring an official bird for Canada by 2017, the 150th anniversary of Confederation." <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/4f17a75ca7ec00571345ca07c64a60c58a3d6875/medium/gray-jay-steve-phillips.jpg?1479389226" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></em><br><br>Only hours ago, the results were announced: <br><br><em>"We give you the gray jay. Also known as the <strong>whiskey jack</strong> or Canada jay, it is Canadian Geographic’s official choice for <strong>National Bird of Canada</strong>."</em><br><br>All those years ago when my partner and co-founding member of Whiskey Jack, John Hoffman and I conspired to name our new musical group, we threw a few ideas around but the one that continued to resonate with us was Whiskey Jack. The reasons had a lot to do with the traits that John and I shared with this bird...sassy, glib, irreverent, tricky, daring, tough (they breed in February for God's sake), noisy, smart as hell and curious. <br><br>When I think of how our music and onstage persona developed over the years, it's clear we were guided by the traits common to this great Canadian bird. I hear it in our music. For example, no other bluegrass "organization" (as Bob McAdorey used to call us) of the day would have made Skin & Bones their signature song. Many of these traits are also there for all to see in old TV interviews we did with Alan Thicke, Ralph Emery and others. <br><br>It's a great day at Whiskey Jack Headquarters. We will be giving the staff an extra long lunch hour. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/c1ae19c8f8c2147f37304ae1be13c6f69b738678/medium/wj-circa-1979.jpg?1479389369" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/44260852016-10-19T09:17:22-04:002020-11-29T01:40:22-05:00Radio and Newspapers salute our showThis week has been a good week for Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom. <br><br>Click <a contents="here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://soundcloud.com/richard-crouse-show/october-8-2016">here</a> to listen to Richard Crouse's interview with Duncan, Bob and Jen on Newstalk, 1010, CFRB.<br><br>And <a contents="here is Joe Warmington's story" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.torontosun.com/2016/10/14/whiskey-jack-celebrates-stompin-tom-connors-legacy">here is Joe Warmington's story</a> published in the Toronto Sun last Saturday. <br><br>Also, a most excellent review of our show in Timmins...holy moly. We are truly blessed. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/5754c120a2cd22afc8553a7fef7c0397ecdc45a2/original/emms-review.jpg?1476883012" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br> Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/43486562016-08-30T11:09:52-04:002019-09-08T19:59:26-04:00What's a Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom Show look like?Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom is a show that combines live music with theatrical energy. The songs in the show are primarily Stompin' Tom originals but also includes songs by the Canadian artists who inspired the early Tom Connors, the hitchhiking troubadour, who eventually became Stompin' Tom. The show includes material featured on a typical Stompin' Tom concert, songs by Wilf Carter, Hank Snow, Don Messer, Graham Townsend and contemporary songwriters such as Willie P. Bennet and Whiskey Jack's Bob McNiven. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/1e4df1afc91208c34df578b57d8104a60ca4c536/original/stc-wj-at-lulus-1.jpg?1472569867" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br>As long time members of Tom's travelling troupe of musicians (dating back to 1990), the members of Whiskey Jack have accumulated many stories and tales of the man and his music. This show allows them to dip into this seemingly endless supply to recreate the spirit of a typical Stompin' Tom concert. Tom's unconventional and self deprecating approach to performing makes for a very entertaining and often unpredictable evening. They add to the mix some hilarious and unconventional quips from the man himself, actual audio clips from their live shows with Tom. The audience is often treated to the voice of Tom introducing a song...”take a trip to the tropics of Canada” as a prelude to the Ketchup Song for example. This always triggers smiles and applause from the surprised fans.<br><br>Included in the show are modern interpretations of classic Stompin' Tom hits. The word sophisticated isn't usually associated with a Stompin' Tom show, except when Whiskey Jack act out their version of Bud the Spud and Margo's Cargo. The unbridled enthusiasm and visually expressive staging exhibited by the band is contagious and the fans eat it up. Tom didn't just stomp his foot, he contorted his entire body as he belted out Sudbury Saturday Night. In that tradition, Whiskey Jack singers don't simply open their mouth and sing. It sometimes becomes an out of body experience. It's a fast paced display that often requires a lot of room.<br><br>Another important part of the show features polished performances by the seasoned professionals who make up Whiskey Jack. When you combine contemporary vocal harmonies with these classic Tom songs, the results bring fans to their feet. There's their fiddler, Randy Morrison, five time National Bluegrass Fiddle Champion; Duncan Fremlin, banjo wizard and a long time cast member of the CBC's Tommy Hunter Show; Bob McNiven on guitar and vocal; Howard Willett on harmonica, Eric Jackson on bass,Jen Cook on vocals and Al Cross on drums. Most have been playing and singing Stompin' Tom material for the majority of their professional career. And it shows!<br><br>There are thematic segments in the show. For example, Tom the patriot is explored through song and commentary. The scene begins on Parliament Hill, Canada Day, 1993. The song is Tom's most famous patriotic song, "It's Canada Day". This is the first song Whiskey Jack performed with Tom on the 1993 tour. Tom told the band that this show was one of the biggest of his career...being able to play in front of hundreds of thousands of Canadians, broadcast live on the CBC to the entire country was the “thrill of a lifetime”. The next sequence morphs into a song or two about Canada's two solitudes. There's Tom's plea to the country to stay together with the songs Unity and Believe In Your Country. It ends with a love story between a Quebecer and an English Canadian, “Well my name is Johnny Maple, and they'll never make no laws, To keep me from my little Quebecois”.Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/43340852016-08-20T08:20:00-04:002021-12-07T05:00:19-05:00Whiskey Jack & Stompin' Tom, Up Close & PersonalDuring our visit to Wilberforce Ontario earlier this month, we very much enjoyed chatting and generally hanging around with the fans after the show. Tom's fans are very easy to enjoy because they have known and loved Tom, many for many more years than us whipper snappers. I often think of our shows as a sort of Stompin' Tom love-in!<br><br>One fan in particular was quite articulate and demonstrated a great deal of knowledge about Tom and his music. He told us he was quite moved by our show (as was demonstrated when he and the crowd offered up a very humbling and effusive standing ovation). Then he made a most eloquent statement... he said, "a good name for your show would be, "Whiskey Jack & Stompin' Tom, Up Close and Personal".<br><br>I was impressed because he clearly understood what the show was all about and because he was able to capture the essence of the show with four simple words..."Up Close & Personal". <br><br>I'm sorry I didn't get the gentleman's name but I thank him in his absence. Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/43003482016-07-29T08:26:22-04:002020-11-29T01:35:23-05:00Canadian Country Music MemoriesThanks to a Canadian visionary John Miller, the Artistic Producer at the Stratford Summer Music Festival, Whiskey Jack has been spending quality time with the music that influenced us the most in years past. I'm referring to the country/folk music of the 1950's and 60's. <br><br>The fans who attend our shows in Stratford each year also reminiscing with us about their memories of this music.<br><br>Local Don Messer fan, Cliff Morgan is a case in point. <a contents="Check out this fabulous story published yesterday in the Stratford Beacon Herald" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.stratfordbeaconherald.com/2016/07/28/local-cliff-morgan-reminisces-about-winning-a-spot-on-don-messers-jubilee">Check out this fabulous story published yesterday in the Stratford Beacon Herald</a>. Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/42986362016-07-28T10:48:48-04:002019-09-08T19:59:46-04:00Stompin' Tom/Whiskey Jack CD being released tomorrow<span class="font_large"><strong>Tomorrow, July 29th is a big day... the CD that Whiskey Jack recorded with Stompin' Tom in 1993 is being re-released by Universal Music Canada. We'll be hosting a big party to celebrate this event at Lula Lounge on October 19th...details to follow. I just rec'd a copy of the cover. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/dc6374820067e35b957bb1f5ab080b5793a60ecf/medium/dr-stompintom-eh-rerelease-cover.jpg?1469717269" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></strong></span>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/42831282016-07-18T08:57:47-04:002022-07-13T03:02:29-04:00Attention - Stompin' Tom fans in New LiskeardAttention all you Stompin' Tom fans in New Liskeard and surrounding communities... Whiskey Jack Presents Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom is coming to your area this weekend, July 22, 23 and 24, 2016. This will no doubt be a spirited gathering of Northern Ontario country music fans. The event is the 18th annual <a contents="Sutton Bay Country Fest" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.suttonbaypark.ca/parc_sutton_bay_park_2016mai_003.htm">Sutton Bay Country Fest</a>. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/65a26bbd386dd340297493993cc18376b1bdf569/medium/parc-sutton-bay-park.jpg?1468846533" class="size_m justify_left border_none" alt="" /><br><br>On Friday and Saturday we'll be telling tall tales of life on the road with Tom and performing all the hits....Bud the Spud, The Hockey Song, Sudbury Saturday Night, Margo's Cargo and more...<br><br>On Sunday, before leaving for home, we'll present our special gospel music show. We can hardly wait.Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/42289862016-06-14T08:02:21-04:002019-09-08T20:00:46-04:00Accolades From A Happy FanSomehow I missed reading an email that I received in April, shortly after Whiskey Jack returned from our northern tour of Elliot Lake, Manitoulin Island and Sudbury. I discovered it this morning.<br><br>Thank you to Elliot Lake vocalist and dobro player, Gloria Jean Hansen from Elliot Lake who wrote: <br><br><strong><span class="font_regular">"My head will ring for days with the sounds, the beautiful joyful noise you made on the stage of our Civic Center tonight."</span></strong><br><br>Gloria Jean plays with country band Val Spencer & Northern Cross (see photo). She even remembers our annual performances in Iron Bridge (down the road from Elliot Lake) back in 1980. L to R: Val Spencer, Jacques Hould, Gloria Jean and Joe Sauve. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/d4388891952287775443bff2caa76ef8f70a5664/medium/val-page-001-1.jpg?1465905638" class="size_m justify_center border_" />Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/42031882016-06-08T09:26:09-04:002020-11-26T01:05:58-05:00The Real Poet LaureateShawn Micallef from The Toronto Star published an article on May 28th where he stated that "Downie is the Poet Laureate of Canada, in spirit if not yet by official appointment". He continues "his lyrics conjure Canadian sports mythology, historical figures, long struggles, regional sensibilities, and geography itself". <br><br>With all due respect to Gord Downie, a fine Canadian I'm sure (never met him), Stompin' Tom did all of this long before most Hip fans were even born. I'm pretty sureTom was never given the title of Poet Laureate of Canada.<br><br>Perhaps Gord Downie should be given this ceremonial title before he succumbs to the terrible disease. Tom deserves to get his first. Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/41942162016-05-24T09:29:59-04:002020-11-26T01:21:14-05:00Downie and ConnorsI'm sorry to say, I don't know if Gord Downie ever got to meet Stompin' Tom. From what I heard on the radio this morning, they should have. My guess is, they would have hit if off. <br><br>'m also sorry to say, I know very little about Downie's band, The Tragically Hip. After listening to a short phone-in segment on my local CBC affiliate this morning, I know a little bit more. It was announced today that Gord Downie, the lead singer for this band, has been diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. Their fans are reeling. The announcer asked listeners to call in with their "Hip story". This is what I learned that I didn't know before.<br><br><em>Tragically Hip fans are numerous and passionate.<br><br>Downie is a poet who plays music.<br><br>An entire generation of Canadians was raised on Tragically Hip music.<br><br>Downie and his band never broke world wide but are a Canadian phenomena. <br><br>Downie' lyrics touch a cultural chord in the Canadians from his generation. <br><br>Downie was a consumate front man.<br><br>The Tragically Hip's fans were as much a part of the show as was the band.<br><br>This is the fact I was truly thrilled to hear. The brand they created for themselves is as Canadian as Stompin' Tom's.</em><br><br>As I read through this list, it comes to mind that the same can be said of Stompin' Tom. Could Gord Downie, his poetry and his songs, simply be as important to his generation as Tom's poetry and songs were to my generation? It's clear the answer is yes.<br><br>Whiskey Jack has never met The Hip but we did enjoy performing a couple of songs with their bass player, Paul Langlois. Paul's friend, David Bastedo asked me if Paul could join us at the very first Stompin' Tom birthday party at the Eaton House in 2014. Paul sang two songs, one of his own and one of Tom's. I can't remember which Tom song he sang but when he stepped on stage, it was obvious this was a very big deal!<br><br>Undoubtedly, I'll listen more closely next time I hear a Downie song played on the radio. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/1b74506eada9b1a475a08e0f44a0b09b5a3dd503/medium/07-copy.jpg?1464096095" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/41775152016-05-12T08:15:43-04:002019-09-08T20:01:17-04:00Whiskey Jack and Universal CanadaIt was announced recently that a Stompin' Tom album recorded with <em>Whiskey Jack</em> in 1993 will be re-released this summer. It's called <em>Dr. Stompin' Tom... Eh? </em> It was a "first" for Tom. He had never before collaborated in the studio or on a tour with an established band. As a result, this CD has a consistently distinct Whiskey Jack flavour supporting each song. <br><br>This announcement is great news for Whiskey Jack and fans of our show, <em>Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom</em>. After a long telephone conversation earlier this week with Universal's Director of Marketing, Warren Stewart, we agreed to explore the idea of a huge CD release celebration in downtown Toronto. This event will feature a showcase of our show. The show that we've been performing across the province these past few years has never been performed in Toronto. It's about time we brought it to the big city. <br><br>I just submitted the liner notes for this CD so we should be able to announce a release date soon. Check back here for details or send us your email address and we'll add you to our list!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/511a75067f011d7612e045142d48775e1161f03d/medium/universal-logo-copy.jpg?1462973323" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/41487562016-04-22T07:21:47-04:002019-09-08T20:01:24-04:00Stompin' Tom Ltd. Working Together With Whiskey JackEvery couple of months, I take a leisurely country drive to Erin Ontario and spend a few hours with Tom Jr, Lena at the family compound. We talk hockey, the good old days on the road but mostly, we talk about the future....the future of the Stompin' Tom brand.<br><br>The passion we all share is the desire to keep the legacy of Stompin' Tom Connors relevant in 2016 and beyond. To that end, we forged a new relationship during my visit yesterday.<br><br>Later in 2016, Universal Records will be re-releasing the 1993 recording that features the only recorded musical collaboration between Stompin' Tom and Whiskey Jack.<br>The CD is called Dr. Stompin' Tom Eh! Much of the music on that recording is performed in our show, Whiskey Jack Presents Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom. This includes Gumboot Cloggeroo, Let's Smile Again, Canada Day, Up Canada Way and Just A Blue Moon Away. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/66ff9237eaa9451046e6958cfb5223d59ceee713/medium/dr-stompin-tom-eh-cd-coveer.jpg?0" class="size_m justify_right border_" /><br><br>I'm particularly excited to have been asked by Tom Jr. to write the liner notes for this re-release. I will most certainly relay a story or two about my time on the road with Tom, our time in the studio recording this CD and a few words about the show we're presently touring with.<br><br>Also in the works soon is the inclusion of our show on the official <a contents="Stompin' Tom web site" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.stompintom.com">Stompin' Tom web site</a>. Like any new production, we strive each day to make our mark on the Canadian entertainment scene. Having our logo and this web page attached to Stompin' Tom Ltd. is an honour and a welcome boost. There are many thousands of visits to this site every year and hopefully they'll visit our site while they are there.<br><br>More news about the special Sesquicentennial show that we're working on will be released in a few weeks. The official name for this anniversary is "<a contents="Canada 150" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.canada150.ca">Canada 150</a>". I was thinking the other day that there's a good chance that if he were on stage chatting with his fans, Tom would be calling it our Sexy Centennial. Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/41210822016-04-05T09:04:11-04:002019-09-08T20:01:32-04:00Anatomy of a Stompin' Tom FanWe had just finished our second song at our show in Hepworth Ontario last Sunday when I looked out and noticed 10 empty chairs in the front row. On each chair was a hastily written "Reserved for VIP's" sign. My first thought was, "what would Tom do about this?". I knew exactly what he would do! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/14172b5793b909172784add80c3adb9292717d8e/medium/stc-hepworth-poster-1.jpg?0" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><br><br>I announced the availability of 10 VIP seats in the front row and encouraged those in the back to make their way through the crowd to take over these seats.<br><br>A few minutes later, as we were finishing up Margo's Cargo, I noticed a great scene unfolding in the audience, one that would have warmed Tom's heart. Making their way slowly up the aisle was a group of elders, canes and walkers in hand, ably assisted by other fans. It took a few minutes but when the parade was complete, there they were, the happiest and prettiest Tom enthusiasts sitting in the front row having the grandest of times. <br><br>When the show was over, the "VIP Row" led the crowd in a standing ovation, confirming once again that Stompin' Tom fans are the finest and most honourable people in this great country.Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/40624702016-04-05T08:41:56-04:002020-11-26T09:10:04-05:00Stompin' Tom's 80th with Gordon Lightfoot, Adrienne Clarkson and Lena ConnorsOn February 10, Whiskey Jack was basking in the glow of what by all counts was the best Stompin' Tom birthday celebration to date. Planning has begun for next year - count on something special. Imagine celebrating Canada's 150th birthday with the songs and tales of Stompin' Tom, the troubadour who so eloquently wrote and sang about this great land.<br><br>But first, we thank the capacity crowd at Hugh's Room who roared and cheered and clapped for every song, every story and every guest. Their exuberance was contagious.<br><br>The magic in the room was apparent from the beginning when The Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson took to the stage to introduce Whiskey Jack. "The" Whiskey Jack (as Tom affectionately called us) told the story of Margo's Cargo, the tale of PEI's own Bud The Spud and the poignant love affair between a potato and a tomato (The Ketchup Song). The crowd loved Steve Fruitman's Tom story "this beer tastes like piss", followed by Douglas Cameron's tale of an imaginary Leonard Cohen, kd lang Stompin' Tom collaboration in Timmins. We even had some good old Canadian poetry as Adrienne recited a few lines about "girls are out to bingo, boys are getting stinko" before belting out Sudbury Saturday Night. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/bc21d3bd1fe6a9099657d72092970e5f9d76b5b5/medium/lena-ac-wj.jpg?0" class="size_m justify_right border_" /><br><br>When JP Cormier came to the mic, the crowd was hushed as he told them how his life changed when he became a member of the Connors musical family in 1990. Then he took us on a very emotional ride through Little Wawa, a Stompin' Tom song that has been present in his life for over 25 years. He ended his set with his self-penned tribute song, House of Plywood. There wasn't a dry eye in the house!<br><br>Then, as JP was unplugging his guitar, he looked over to see another of his heroes. Gordon Lightfoot was making his way to the stage with his famous 1961 Martin guitar in hand. Yes, the man who has left an indelible mark on pretty much every Canadian born in our generation was there to pay tribute to his old pal, Stompin' Tom. We were entranced as he told us of his time at Tom's house (in Tom's own bar) drinking beer and telling tales. The flash cameras and social media postings got a good workout before he returned to his seat...everyone on their feet shouting their appreciation.<p><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/42b8f7bbcb8a3d28302557306182b0b288d76805/medium/lightfoot.jpg?0" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>Just as we all thought it couldn't get any better, we were treated to Lovely Lena Connors as she joined our very own Jen Cook on a beautiful duet that she and Tom often sang at their kitchen parties...The French Song.<br><br>It was Adrienne's birthday the day after Tom's, so as the cake was carried in, the crowd joined in on Happy Birthday Dear Adrienne. We brought out "the plywood" for the Hockey Song and everyone left for home with a smile and cake icing on their face.<br><br>The next day, we woke up to emails and Facebook postings......"fabulous show", "truly memorable", "amazing evening", "unforgettable celebration" and on and on. For more photo highlights, click on the photo icon at www.whiskeyjackmusic.com.<br><br>All photos by the one and only Gary Beechey, the photographer with a twinkle in his eye.<br><br>Dave and Adam Ferri and their crew from Orchard TV filmed the evening. Video highlights will be available on our web site soon.<br><br>Thank you for being such great supporters of all things Whiskey Jack, Duncan, Bob, Howard, Eric, Jen, Randy and AlDuncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/40797922016-03-09T09:44:36-05:002019-09-08T20:01:47-04:00Gordon Lightfoot Salutes Stompin' Tom at Whiskey Jack Show<p>Dave Ferri and Adam Ferri and the<a contents=" Orchard TV" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://orchardtv.com/whiskeyjack/"> Orchard TV</a> crew filmed our Feb. 9th, 2016 Stompin' Tom 80th birthday celebration at Hugh's Room. The video editing is underway. We'll be releasing some video highlights over the next few weeks.<br><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="j_d_T1TMbtY" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/j_d_T1TMbtY/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/j_d_T1TMbtY?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe><br><br>Here's Gordon Lightfoot's performance as he tells us about his visit to Tom's "private bar" in 2005. He then sings a song "Tom might like"... I'll Tag Along. Introduction by the great <a contents="J.P. Cormier" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://jp-cormier.com/">J.P. Cormier</a>.</p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/40625292016-02-26T17:50:16-05:002019-09-08T20:01:55-04:00Stompin' Tom's 80th with Gordon Lightfoot, Adrienne Clarkson and Lena ConnorsToday, Whiskey Jack basks in the glow of what by all counts was the best Stompin' Tom birthday celebration to date. Planning has begun for next year - count on something special. Imagine celebrating Canada's 150th birthday with the songs and tales of Stompin' Tom, the troubadour who so eloquently wrote and sang about this great land.<br><br>But first, we thank the capacity crowd at Hugh's Room who roared and cheered and clapped for every song, every story and every guest. Their exuberance was contagious. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/9afdcdbd8d3cc648e36056b881d1f64ab4b17542/medium/ac-whiskey-jack.jpg?0" class="size_m justify_left border_" /><br><br>The magic in the room was apparent from the beginning when The Right Honourable Adrienne Clarkson took to the stage to introduce Whiskey Jack. "The" Whiskey Jack (as Tom affectionately called us) told the story of Margo's Cargo, the tale of PEI's own Bud The Spud and the poignant love affair between a potato and a tomato (The Ketchup Song). The crowd loved Steve Fruitman's Tom story "this beer tastes like piss", followed by Douglas Cameron's tale of an imaginary Leonard Cohen, kd lang Stompin' Tom collaboration in Timmins. We even had some good old Canadian poetry as Adrienne recited a few lines about "girls are out to bingo, boys are getting stinko" before belting out Sudbury Saturday Night.<br><br>When JP Cormier came to the mic, the crowd was hushed as he told them how his life changed when he became a member of the Connors musical family in 1990. Then he took us on a very emotional ride through Little Wawa, a Stompin' Tom song that has been present in his life for over 25 years. He ended his set with his self-penned tribute song, House of Plywood. There wasn't a dry eye in the house! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/72fff13cec1bc7622063048d85af5e08ca487e89/medium/jpcormier.jpg?0" class="size_m justify_right border_" /><br><br>Then, as JP was unplugging his guitar, he looked over to see another of his heroes. Gordon Lightfoot was making his way to the stage with his famous 1961 Martin guitar in hand. Yes, the man who has left an indelible mark on pretty much every Canadian born in our generation was there to pay tribute to his old pal, Stompin' Tom. We were entranced as he told us of his time at Tom's house (in Tom's own bar) drinking beer and telling tales. The flash cameras and social media postings got a good workout before he returned to his seat...everyone on their feet shouting their appreciation.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/42b8f7bbcb8a3d28302557306182b0b288d76805/medium/lightfoot.jpg?0" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Just as we all thought it couldn't get any better, we were treated to Lovely Lena Connors as she joined our very own Jen Cook on a beautiful duet that she and Tom often sang at their kitchen parties...The French Song.<br><br>It was Adrienne's birthday the day after Tom's, so as the cake was carried in, the crowd joined in on Happy Birthday Dear Adrienne. We brought out "the plywood" for the Hockey Song and everyone left for home with a smile and cake icing on their face. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/bc21d3bd1fe6a9099657d72092970e5f9d76b5b5/medium/lena-ac-wj.jpg?0" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><br><br>The next day, we woke up to emails and Facebook postings......"fabulous show", "truly memorable", "amazing evening", "unforgettable celebration" and on and on. For more photo highlights, click on the photo icon at www.whiskeyjackmusic.com. All photos by the one and only Gary Beechey, the photographer with a twinkle in his eye.<br><br>Dave and Adam Ferri and their crew from Orchard TV filmed the evening. Video highlights will be available on our web site soon. Thank you for being such great supporters of all things Whiskey Jack, Duncan, Bob, Howard, Eric, Jen, Randy and AlDuncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/39669822015-12-22T08:47:42-05:002019-09-08T20:02:02-04:00How To Promote This ShowI spoke yesterday with Samira Rehman, the Marketing and PR Coordinator at the <a contents="Living Arts Centre in Mississauga" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.livingartscentre.ca/theatre-performances/stories-songs-of-stompin-tom-whiskey-jack">Living Arts Centre in Mississauga</a>. We were discussing a plan to sell out our show on January 9th, 2016. I must say, I was mightily impressed with their thoroughness and hands-on approach to marketing. This campaign will produce results, I have no doubt of that. <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/298435dfd8a3013dec64ea1a81d12be383016446/small/living-arts-centre.jpg?1450792036" class="size_s justify_left border_" /><br>Their online presence, with a focus on Facebook, is excellent. They bought ads and have reached 18,000 people in their region. They have a budget that has allowed them to advertise in 4 local publications, all well distributed and read. I suggested they contact local Legions and make sure they know about it. I've not doubt they will do that.<br><br>They've arranged for me to be interviewed by someone at the <a contents="Mississauga News " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.mississauga.com/mississauga-on/">Mississauga News</a>. That will result in a nice article in the days before the show. <br><br>All of the above are very good ideas what will produce results, but they are fairly passive. Samira however has taken a more proactive approach. They're actually going to bring a lap top to some of the senior homes in the region and speak to the residents about buying tickets to the show, on the spot! This is the kind of effort that will make a huge difference and I salute them for it. Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/39339352015-11-25T08:03:59-05:002021-07-03T14:18:07-04:00Laurie Ann Agency Books Stompin' TomI reconnected today with one of the most important personalities in Canadian Country music that you've never heard of. His name is Ron Sparling and he owns and operates a booking agency in Ottawa, Laurie Ann Entertainment. Ron's been a cog in the Canadian country music wheel since the early 1970's, booking most major fairs and festivals in his prime. Most of those headlining events have been reduced to beer gardens so Ron isn't as busy these days as he once was.<br><br>Whiskey Jack first met Ron, an enigmatic figure when you first speak with him, in the early 1980's. At that time, he was the drummer and booking agent for Family Brown, an Ottawa band that hosted their own weekly show on regional TV. <div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/1e081a6976e92c9bab9b04f9db571b7e9aead9b1/medium/1991-the-family-brown.jpg?1448456471" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">Ron Sparling, top left</p></div><br>I spoke with Ron yesterday about bringing our Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom show to his area. We had a great conversation, reminiscing about the "good old days" when our industry was in it's infancy. He had a lot of respect for Tom, described him as "an honourable and fair man". Here's why.<br><br>Ron booked Tom into a number of shows in the 1970's. Often in this industry, once the initial introduction is made between club owner and entertainer, the two parties will then in the future begin negotiating dates on their own, excluding the booking agent. With Tom, when this happened, he'd still forward the appropriate commission to Ron, even though he had nothing to do with the contract.<br><br>As I told Ron, "not many acts would do that". That's what I call "honourable".Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/39261642015-11-19T20:04:33-05:002022-07-21T10:37:54-04:00Endorsement from Tom Connors JrWe just received and email from Tom Connors Jr. I sent him a copy of our new CD awhile ago. His mom Lena plays it in her car and Tom? Well, this is what he said: <br><br><span class="font_large"><strong>"Whiskey Jack not only nails the music, but you can tell they are having fun doing it as well." One of the best Stompin' Tom Tribute CDs I've ever heard. Keep up the good work."<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/7c22cfc0d7778837b8528d7ff4093935cf5126d9/medium/tom-jr-duncan.jpg?1447981324" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Tom Connors JR</strong></span>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/39252472015-11-16T09:14:56-05:002022-04-23T12:08:06-04:00Gospel Show Coming Soon<span class="font_large">We invite you to join us for an afternoon of Whiskey Jack gospel music on Sunday, November 22nd at 4:00 pm. We'll be performing in the chapel at The Church of St Simon the Apostle complex. John A. MacDonald was Prime Minister when this complex was built. The address is 525 Bloor St. E. and it is a short walk from the Sherbourne Subway. There is ample parking nearby. We know the chapel well. It's our rehearsal space.<br><br>If you've seen Whiskey Jack, you'll know that gospel music has been an important part of our musical history. This summer, we were invited to perform this special show in a couple of small but charming churches in Northern Ontario. It was a highlight of our tour and we were quite moved by this experience. We are eager to share these songs with our Toronto fans. There isn't a better location than the St. Simon Chapel.<br><br>It will be all acoustic. Even though some of us in the band love to share our strong opinions on life in general, be assured that there will not be a sermon, nor will there be a healing service. Though the show will be secular, the performances will be heavenly.<br><br>Everyone is welcome. We encourage you to bring your kids.<br><br>In the tradition of churches around the world, there will be no charge for this show. However, we will be "passing the plate".<br><br>We'll sing this song!<br><br><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="G_v6vLTztn4" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/G_v6vLTztn4/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/G_v6vLTztn4?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></span>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/38505932015-10-29T17:02:55-04:002020-11-26T01:10:49-05:00Tom Knew His Audience!Each time we prepare for one of our Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom shows, I can't help but reminisce about our many nights on stage as we watched Tom, the old pro, embrace his audience with his antics and his songs. He was a master at making his fans feel like they were his special guest and the performance was just like a good old fashion kitchen party in his home. Those times on stage with him provide the fuel and energy that keeps it at a high level. All who played with him felt this bond. It remains the great motivator, the guiding light, the driving force behind each song.<br><br>He worked hard at removing this barrier. His intentional decimation of the English language I found puzzling at first. Why would he pawn himself off as an illiterate? Why use the word "doos" when he meant to say "do"? Perhaps he became self conscious of his success and felt he had to make a point of letting his people know it hadn't gone to his head. Whatever it was, they ate it up!<br><br>Stompin' Tom was a complex man, but as honest a man as I've ever met.Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/38810362015-10-03T08:28:33-04:002019-09-08T20:03:15-04:00Time With Don TremaineAs a boy, from 1959 to 1969, I would religiously watch Don Messer's Jubilee on the CBC. I had Don Messer albums and I enjoyed the Charlie Chamberlain and Marg Osborne duets. Each week, the show would begin with Don Tremaine on camera announcing, "From Halifax, It's the Don Messer Jubilee". His face became one of the most recognizable in the country.<br><br>As it turns out, he's one of the last surviving cast members and I spent an hour with him at his home in Halifax yesterday. This was in preparation for the Don Messer salute at the 2016 Stratford Summer Music Festival. The stories were endless. It was an absolute thrill! The Maritime hospitality was warm and inviting.... as though there was any doubt.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/20bfca63a3760deb7dc43f1846617f6e5c54605d/medium/tremaine-fremlin.jpg?1443875175" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/38764472015-09-30T15:29:21-04:002019-09-08T20:03:21-04:00Don Tremaine and Whiskey JackIn prepartaion for next summer's salute to Don Messer's Jubilee at the Stratford Summer Music Festival, I began to search for surviving cast members of the venerable CBC show. I was worried we were too late.<br><br>I need not have worried. The stars were aligned a few minutes ago when I received a call from the Don Messer Show MC, Don Tremaine (seen here on the right), just back from the cottage and happily living in Dartmouth. I'm pleased to report that he is alive and well and eager to share some memories with me next time we chat. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/03a0cf892b478e7e1ce7b40773685b2f21f4fe05/original/don-tremaine-and-others.jpg?1443641334" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br>As luck would have it, weather permitting, I'll be flying to Halifax tomorrow on another matter and will hopefully get a chance to meet with him. Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/38699542015-09-26T11:11:23-04:002021-10-28T05:46:18-04:00Video Channel Visited Often<p style="margin: 0px 0px 6px; color: rgb(20, 24, 35); font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.456px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">We have a lot of videos, some new, some old, that are available on our Youtube channel. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/l.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.youtube.com%2Fplaylist%3Flist%3DPL4dxTatyPi6ADdoVrqB-5KS8QdwRNNx70&h=MAQFLOwouAQF_19nwipTF6zMAaoi-Ab-3UkwnuXuaXGfnow&enc=AZPQL1EUXpu6vD0fe47_NjFKKi6qOKAT1r7sUqDs86YPEQIjqcg8308s7eoebWyisgAVidW4bfqQMv9mmNOgH_CBwTQ8y6AukJJ5c3nNkPosTkyEwM6pEhOZ0TaT5PLFIA3ao9jmYImLV1xlcVuF1JIAP54lRceuHN4NhOpV2x93kMASM7dDFaQTrrT1vefanYY8WEPZS82nj-5Y420JP0WG&s=1" rel="nofollow" style="color: rgb(59, 89, 152); cursor: pointer; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">https://www.youtube.com/playlist…</a></p>
<p style="margin: 6px 0px; color: rgb(20, 24, 35); font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.456px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">I was checking out the number of visits on some of the more recent uploads and noticed that our fiddle medley featuring our champion fiddler Randy Morrison has 2566 hits...in a very short period of time. That's a big number. Congratulations Randy...the whole world is watching!<br><br><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="fd52E_naw8I" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/fd52E_naw8I/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/fd52E_naw8I?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/38526982015-09-14T11:09:06-04:002020-11-26T10:12:15-05:00Something Special In The AirThe Stompin' Tom shows we've done this year have gone swimmingly! I think it's safe to say all seven of us in the band feel caught up in a musical joy ride and we're having the time of our life. Every show on our recent tour of Georgian Bay and Northern Ontario ended with a standing ovation. It's not surprising that we float out of the theatre each night with these happy images in our heads. <br><br>We like to think the music and the stories that we share each night do justice to the memories we have of Tom and his music. But it's more than that. There's a nuance to each show that defies analysis.<br><br>Having said that, I'll defer to a couple of fans for their take on what's going on.<br><br><strong>I discussed this with a couple of my scholarly friends who had just witnessed this phenomenon at one of our shows. Their thought was that we perform the songs, even the ones about vegetables, in a polished and highly professional way. Each song is treated with respect. Our interpretations are genuine. Also, our repertoire for each show includes other Canadian classic songs, songs that everyone knows intimately and have embraced in an emotional and personal way. I'm thinking of Someday Soon, Snowbird and the like. When presented together as one package, the Tom songs that were once dismissed by the radio intelligentsia are, as far as our audience is concerned, now elevated to the status that they richly deserve. </strong><br><br>Sudbury Saturday Night for example has all of the correct ingredients for a hit song. Yet, radio programmers took a pass. The same can be said for other Tom non-hits like Bud the Spud, <a contents="Margo's Cargo" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/L_XNi6tjfY4?list=PL4dxTatyPi6ADdoVrqB-5KS8QdwRNNx70">Margo's Cargo</a>, Moon Man Newfie and so on. <br><br>I recently received an unsolicited email from some fans who attended our show in Meaford. Their comments reinforce this idea that our show is more than just stories & songs. <strong> <br><br>Writes Mike from Meaford: "W<span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12.8px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">e all really enjoyed the show last night. The stories, combined with the great arrangements and the top notch musicianship of you and your band, made for a warm and memorable evening."</span></strong><br><br><br> Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/38436722015-09-05T13:27:08-04:002019-09-08T20:03:40-04:00Is It Wrong To Simply Want To Be Entertained?I notice two of my favourite singers and song writers are coming to Massey Hall soon. Emmy Lou Harris and Rodney Crowell are touring together and odds are, it should be a good show.<br><br>I've seen each of them perform on their own and I've been less than impressed. The songs are good. The singing is great but I left each show feeling let down. I never found them to be even slightly entertaining. I won't be buying tickets to their Massey Hall show. I'll stay home and listen to their CD's.<br><br>Lyle Lovett is an example of what and entertainer should be... personable, he's witty, he's charming and comfortable with his audience and his band. Top that off with fantastic songs and a voice that emotes on every note and Lovett ends up with one of the best shows on the circuit. <br><br>Whiskey Jack isn't famous. Nor do we draw crowds to fill a Massey Hall. But what we do each night we perform our Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom is entertain. At least that's what the fans and CD buyers are telling us. <br><br>After the Stockey Centre show in Parry Sound last month, we spoke with a couple visiting for the summer from Germany. They bought a package...tickets to 10 shows over the summer. Our show was the last on their list. According to Wolfgang, "that was the best show all summer. We had more fun than we can imagine".<br><br>That's what I want to be able to say to Rodney and Emmy Lou after one of their shows but it will never happen. The best part is, our show cost $19.95. Crowell/Harris tickets are $60.00 and up. Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/38423532015-09-05T13:13:13-04:002019-09-08T20:03:47-04:00Immersing Ourselves In Sudbury Saturday NightThis musical journey, Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom, has been quite the ride. Besides the fact we've been able to perform the Tom songs we learned when we toured with him, we've been trying to add more and more of these great songs to our repertoire. This has been a bit of a challenge in terms of learning lyrics. I'm not making excuses but it isn't as second nature as it was 20 years ago.<br><br>I spend weeks going over the words to my songs before I'm ready to sing them in the show. I'm going to debut Moon Man Newfie in Midland this weekend and I remember going over the lines as I was swimming in the lake early this summer. I think I have it now.<br class="Apple-interchange-newline"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/eb3053ecadcb97d52d0582a13a2fd041d2ab3b44/small/bob-stratford.jpg?1441368822" class="size_s justify_right border_" style="font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive; font-size: small; font-weight: bold;" /><div>
<br><br>I just received this email from our guitarist/singer Bob McNiven and it made me giggle. <br><br><span style="color: rgb(34, 34, 34); font-family: 'Comic Sans MS', cursive; font-size: small; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"><strong>"This morning for the first time I stood in the shower getting ready to leave for work and sang all of the lyrics to Sudbury and Muckin’ without any hesitation or mistakes. Think I got it!" </strong></span><br><br>I knew he has been working on these lyrics. A singer has "got it" when they words come out of their mouths "automatically", with no need for triggers or thought. Now, when I call out that this is the next song, I'll no longer enjoy Bob's "furrowed brow look".... that look that says "geez, I hope I get through this without screwing up a word or two". </div>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/38412592015-09-04T08:10:23-04:002022-05-21T03:21:00-04:00Next Up..Midland Show on September 11thOn Friday, September 11th, the Huronia Museum is hosting our show, Whiskey Jack Presents Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom as a fundraiser for their spectacular facility. <br><br>Midland native, Douglas John Cameron will join us for this show. <br><br>Tickets are available online. <a contents="Click here." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.shopmidland.com/HuroniaMuseum/?listing.action=products&Whiskey-Jack---Stories-and-Songs-of-Stompin%27-Tom&productid=10291892&view=details&pcatid=0">Click here.</a> <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/f1d0635f5f5d0e1f1b2f5e457826653be5e60e30/original/simcoe-com-mirror.jpg?1441303051" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/38412562015-09-03T13:52:38-04:002020-11-29T01:25:27-05:00Good Show, Good Promotion, Good Crowd! Each time we perform our show, Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom, our enthusiasm grows. It grows not just because we love playing/singing this music, but because the crowds get bigger and bigger and the media response gets more enthusiastic. <br><br>First, leading up to our show at the Stockey Centre in Parry Sound, there was <a contents="this terrific article in the Beacon Star by Paige Phillips" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.parrysound.com/whatson-story/5798424-whiskey-jack-to-perform-at-the-stockey-aug-27/">this terrific article in the Beacon Star by Paige Phillips</a>. <br><br>Then, it was followed nicely by a<a contents=" huge article by Soo reporter Brian Kelly in the Sault Star" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.saultstar.com/2015/08/22/celebrating-stompin-tom"> huge article by Soo reporter Brian Kelly in the Sault Star</a> in anticipation of our show at Richard's Landing. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/e36b52492ac6a75ab99b89e76b7011763fc7fbc8/original/celebrating-stompin-tom-sault-star-page-001.jpg?1441302576" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/38338172015-08-26T17:09:27-04:002019-09-08T20:09:45-04:00Buy Our New CD on iTunesIt's offiicical. Our new CD, Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom is now for sale on iTunes. <br><br><a contents="Buy Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/stories-songs-stompin-tom/id1033250248">Buy Stories & Songs of Stompin' Tom</a>Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/38205282015-08-15T09:57:49-04:002020-11-26T09:06:17-05:00Promoting A Show Is A Team EffortOnce we sign a contract to perform our show, we immediately connect with the public relations department at the theatre or venue. Tickets don't sell themselves. We've learned that if we make this a team effort between Whiskey Jack and the host, success is more likely. <br><br>Greg Hancock at the Stockey Centre has been a big help as we've worked to sell tickets to our August 27th show in Parry Sound. Greg and I have postered the city, we've contacted local radio outlets and he recently arranged for an interview with a young reporter at the Beacon Star, Paige Phillips. Yesterday, <a contents="her masterpiece" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.parrysound.com/whatson-story/5798424-whiskey-jack-to-perform-at-the-stockey-aug-27/#.Vc4erdqmiYI.facebook">her masterpiece</a> was published. <br><br>This will go a long way to selling tickets. The Stompin' Tom demographic are newspaper readers and will undoubtedly read this article. <br> Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/38156032015-08-11T16:32:01-04:002019-09-08T20:09:58-04:00Gordie Tapp & Whiskey Jack Rock the Stratford LegionAt 93, Canadian icon, Gordie Tapp can still inspire side splitting laughter followed by a standing ovation. Said Gordie, "a standing ovation...the best compliment an entertainer can receive. Thank you!".<br><br>It was a trip down memory lane for all of us in the band as well as the 260 fans who clapped and laughed all evening. We started with the Don Messer theme, moved on to salute the Tommy Hunter Show, Wilf Carter, Hank Snow (Howard Willett really nailed I'm Movin' On), King Ganham (Randy Morrison did him proud), Lucille Starr (should have heard Jen Cook's version of The French Song) and of course our own legend, Bob McNiven brought the house down with his own song, One More Time. <br><br>We featured the song that we first sang with Gordie on The Tommy Hunter show in 1982, Too Old To Cut The Mustard. What a night!<br><br>In this photo, Gordie, Eric Jackson and I are sharing a spontaneous version of a song familiar to all Hee Haw fans, Pfft You Were Gone. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/817dce2488ae5eb09c5e1522b8b0cbba66255a81/original/11327294-520706128080125-147631550-n.jpg?1439324706" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/37608322015-06-30T17:16:11-04:002022-05-29T03:53:41-04:00Lunch With Cousin Clem<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/170852/c37fd6c09656ed1a784a31ebe68784a45db1df83/original/gordie-duncan-lunch.jpg?1435699760" class="size_l justify_center border_" />I enjoyed a long lunch last week with the great Gordie Tapp, aka Cousin Clem and John Miller, Artistic Producer of the Stratford Summer Music Festival. We discussed the plans for our show in Stratford on August 1, 2015. The show is called, Whiskey Jack and Gordie Tapp Salute Legends of Canadian Country Music.<br><br>The list of legends is long and storied... Hank Snow, Wilf Carter, Stompin' Tom, Lucille Starr, Carol Baker, Tommy Hunter, Ward Allen, King Ganham, Al Cherny, Maurice Boyler and the list goes on and on.<br><br>Gordie shared some great stories today. At 93, he knew and performed with pretty much all of the greats. Gordie began the lunch by asking John Miller, " how blue can my stories be?" That triggered a hearty laugh and after a bit of discussion, we concluded that since the show would be at the local Royal Canadian Legion, we could trust Gordie to use his 93 year old discretion and "go for it".<br><br>He's travelled with the greats... Jack Benny, Bob Hope, Joan Rivers (the funniest woman in his view) and so on. And yes, the some of the stories we heard were blue indeed.Duncan Fremlintag:www.whiskeyjackmusic.com,2005:Post/37448762015-06-16T21:22:57-04:002019-09-08T20:10:11-04:00Stockey Centre Show in Parry Sound - August 27, 2015Tickets are now on sale for our August 27th show at the beautiful Stockey Centre in Parry Sound, hometown of Whiskey Jack's harmonica wizard, Howard Willett.<br><br>Stompin' Tom hitchhiked the area many times over the years...slept in a lot of ditches with his guitar by his side! It was one of these trips that inspired his song, "Around The Bay and Back Again". We'll be singing that song on the 27th, you can bet on it! You can always see some of the show on our <a contents="video channel" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLakxULcUGhkm_Cmpzt59VdIMO6Bt2O4oB" target="_blank">video channel</a><a contents="video channel." data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL4dxTatyPi6ADdoVrqB-5KS8QdwRNNx70" target="_blank">.</a> Or <a contents="click here" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://youtu.be/Kc0z_HX98Y8" target="_blank">click here</a> to watch Howard Willett nail a Stompin' Tom ballad. <span style="color: rgb(20, 24, 35); font-family: helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 15.4559993743896px; background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);"> </span>Duncan Fremlin