The name Tebey might be a familiar name across Canada now but there’s an excellent chance you’ve already heard his songs. Prior to taking Canadian Country music by storm after winning the Boots and Hearts Emerging Artist challenge in 2012 Tebey was a successful songwriter having written songs across genres for artists that include Flo Rida, One Direction and Big And Rich. Currently touring Canada in support of his sophmore album, simply titled Two, Tebey brings his tour to Spencerville Ontario on September 13 for the 159th Spencerville Fair.
Tebey graciously took time out of his busy schedule to answer some questions for us.
20 Questions with Tebey
#1: Music has been in your blood since you were very young. 12 years ago you recorded an album for RCA. The lead single did well in Canada peaking at #2 and even breaking into the top 40 south of the border. Unfortunately RCA chose not to release the album something that would deter most artists but if anything it seemed to fuel your drive. How did you overcome that situation and looking back is there anything you would’ve done differently?
TEBEY: Losing my first record deal in Nashville was a huge setback. I was obviously disappointed, but surprisingly I never really worried. I’m very persistent and determined. I had faith in my ability and knew I would find a way to make a living in the music business.
#2: Every artist I’ve spoken to has a story about how / when they decided to pursue music as a career. We know that you started in music at a very early age, describe the moment that you knew that music was the path for you and what inspired you to take that path.
TEBEY: I don’t think there was a specific place and time when I decided I would pursue music as a career. I’ve kinda just always known this is what I’m meant to do. I’m glad it’s worked out…so far.
#3: As a songwriter you’ve written songs for artists like FLO RIDA, One Direction, Big and Rich to name just a few. Name any three artists, you haven’t already collaborated with, that you would like to work with?
Adam Levine
Dierks Bentley
adele
TEBEY: I would love to work with Adam Levine of Maroon 5. I admire his songwriting and musicianship so much. Dierks Bentley would probably be my country artist of choice. I find he’s incredibly underrated. And to round out my Top 3, I’d go with Adele.
#4: You’ve traveled across Canada numerous times now and will be making a stop with Dallas Smith in Spencerville this fall. Describe your live show, what can fans expect to see?
TEBEY: My goal is to walk away with more fans than I had going in. So I always give each performance 110%. No matter the venue or crowd size. I also think I’m pretty personable on stage. I love interacting with the fans.
#5: If you look at your career to date as both a songwriter and a performer what would you say is the defining moment , so far?
TEBEY: Probably getting to work with One Direction. They’re quickly writing their names in the musical history books, and I’m honoured to be a part of their career through my songs.
#6: What’s your all-time favorite movie?
Dumb and Dumber
TEBEY: Dumber & Dumber. #classic
#7: Your ideal brain food?
TEBEY: cashews
#8: Favourite Restaurant (anywhere in the world)?
TEBEY: This one is tough! I’ve traveled all over the world. I had dinner on the top of an old church in Jerusalem, Israel one time. Can’t remember the name, but let’s go with that place!
#9: Favourite TV show (all-time)?
TEBEY: Another tough one! How about a Top 3. Law & Order SVU, Breaking Bad and The Good Wife.
#10: If you could see any artist in concert, who would you see (living or dead)?
Garth Brooks
TEBEY: Garth Brooks. I’ve seen him several times, including once from the 5th row. Incredible!
#11: iPhone, Android or Blackberry?
TEBEY: iPhone
#12: Can you talk about a fan encounter that completely took you by surprise?
TEBEY: Getting recognized in public is still very new to me. I’ve been recognized at Starbucks, random restaurants and of all places, airport immigration lines in the last few months. I still don’t know what to say cause I’m usually completely caught off guard.
#13: What are your family member’s musical interests and abilities?
TEBEY: My mom and dad are both very musical. My sister and brother are great singers. They just never wanted to pursue music.
#14: Name a fictional character most like you?
TEBEY: Can’t think of one.
#15: In Tebey, Story of My Life” – The Movie, who would play you?
Jarome Iginla
Tebey photo credit: Mark Maryanovich
TEBEY: Jarome Iginla. We kinda look alike. Not sure he can act though!
#16: Star Trek or Star Wars?
TEBEY: Neither.
#17: Stress management: hit man, spa vacation or Prozac?
TEBEY: Prozac
#18: What is the best advice you’ve been given?
TEBEY: When I lost my first record deal, John Rich of Big & Rich called me with some advice. He said “this is a business of the last man standing. Dont give up.”
#19: What charity do you support?
TEBEY: I don’t have an official charity I support. I’m working on starting a foundation though.
#20: We know that your next album Two is due out this fall, what can you tell us about the album?
TEBEY: ‘Two’ came out in February
Special thanks to Tebey for taking the time to answer our questions, especially with Country Music Week upon us. If you live in Eastern Ontario be sure to checkout Tebey live at the Spencerville Fair on Saturday September 13 along with Dallas Smith. For a full list of tour dates and information on Tebey visit him online!
Here’s Tebey’s video for the single “Now Do I”