Ottawa was rocking Saturday night as Sparks Street played host to the CMAOntario New Faces Showcase, giving fans a chance to take in some of the province's best up and coming young talent.
Kicking things off was Toronto-born Owen Barney, who has been strumming the guitar since he was 7-years-old. Known to find influence in country heavy-hitters like Eric Church, Dean Brody, and Jason Aldean, Barney has been playing shows all across The 6 since he was just 14.
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Next up, Ottawa-based Les Rats d'Swompe took over the stage, while fans couldn't help but dance in the street. Originally from Northern and Eastern Ontario, this high-energy crew is known as a group of proud French Canadians who love to share their passion for traditional violin, and songs that respond to the musicality of yesteryear.
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Treating the crowd to some new music, as well as his current single Loved You Like That, it was clear Kris Barclay knows how to have a good time. Over the past eight years, the Ajax-native has found himself opening for the likes of Brett Kissel, The Road Hammers, Gord Bamford and Dean Brody. He also happened to take home top spot at last year's Emerging Artist Showcase at Boots & Hearts (the only Wild Card entry to ever win), scoring a deal with Warner Music Canada. Nominated for this year's Rising Star Award, this guy is definitely one to watch.
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Wrapping up the night's roster of fresh faces was Rising Star nominee Brad James, known for his latest single Whiskey. Based in Hamilton, James works and lives as a full-time musician and has certainly been paying his dues, performing an average of 200 shows a year, along with writing and recording new material with many of Canada's and Nashville's biggest names.
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Capping off the event, the country crowd was treated to performances by special guest, Ottawa's own Chris Labelle, as well as headliners Danielle Bourjeaurd and The Abrams.
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The festivities continue Sunday night as the CMAOntario Awards 2019 take over the Southam Hall at the National Arts Centre at 7 p.m., with some of the province's most popular country music artists, hosted by Jason McCoy with performances by Tim Hicks, The Abrams, The Reklaws, Meghan Patrick, The Washboard Union, and many more.