Music Buddy

21/06/2024

Music Buddy is lucky to work with the wonderful band Skydiggers, to bring to life their stories and highlight the rich community that they have built around them in their 30+ years of creating music together. The podcast is called Employee of the Myth, and is hosted by Music Buddy's Jane Gowan, and Actor/Director Joel Stewart.

The pod is now in Season 3. Find it wherever you get your podcasts!
Here's the latest episode:

Whether it's creating Skydiggers classics with his long-time musical compadre Andy Maize, co-writing songs with heavy-hitters in Nashville, or composing music for television, Josh Finlayson places a high value on being a  collaborator. In Jos...

22/05/2024

Ep. 48: CHRIS WONG - Journeys to the Bandstand. Out now!
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One city, two Cellars, seven decades, and thirty vibrant jazz personalities. Journeys to the Bandstand: Thirty Jazz Lives in Vancouver is the debut book by author and veteran music journalist Chris Wong (Vancouver Sun, Georgia Straight, Vancouver Courier). It is an in-depth and rich account of the remarkable life stories of several key protagonists in Vancouver’s jazz and improv scene.

From lesser-known icons such as trumpeter John Dawe, to revolutionary shape shifters such as pianist Al Neil, to essential leaders in today's scene such as bassist Jodi Proznick, Wong chronicles this carefully-curated selection of intriguing lives with a gentle compassion, a steadfast respect for the truth, and a deep love and understanding of the art form itself.

The book describes the inspiration, passion, and the lure of a life dedicated to music, but also the emotional, economic, and physical toll that can often accompany such a choice. While chronicling the professional trajectories of his chosen subjects, Wong also shines a light on a city with a rich jazz culture, a supportive community, and a fascinating musical history.

One city, two Cellars, seven decades, and thirty vibrant jazz personalities. Journeys to the Bandstand: Thirty Jazz Lives in Vancouver is the debut book by author and veteran music journalist Chris Wong (Vancouver Sun, Georgia Straight, Vancouver ...

17/05/2024

Out today, a new Music Buddy Session Single: “Plans”, by Ep 32 guest Blair Deptuck. Recorded and mixed by Tim Vesely. Performed by Blair, Tim, and Jane Gowan. Check out Blair’s band New Driver - an all-star group of musicians based in Nanaimo, BC.

Thanks for listening. Choose your preferred music service

06/05/2024

Out now: FESTIVAL SEASON, PT 3: Tall Pines Festival, with guest KEVIN GOODMAN
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Is there anything better than listening to your favourite band while sitting outside in the sun with friends, family, and fellow music-lovers? Very few experiences can top the feeling you get from soaking up fresh air and sound waves simultaneously. So, as summer approaches, we bring you “Festival Season” - a special 3-part series on music festivals.

In this series, Jane talks to a few of the wonderful people that work around the clock to bring us these magical events.

As the CEO of Front Row Centre Music & Entertainment Marketing, Kevin Goodman brings passion, enthusiasm and a boat load of experience to his current endeavours in the music world. He has a talent for facilitating the connections that allow the dream to become a reality, creating an unforgettable summer festival experience for musicians and fans alike. 15 bands, live art, food trucks, local vendors, kids' zone, beachfront, canoeing, and much more: that's what you'll find at the Tall Pines Music Festival, July 19 & 20 in Gull Lake Park, Muskoka.

Tall Pines Music & Arts Festival

Available where you get your pods

Is there anything better than listening to your favourite band while sitting outside in the sun with friends, family, and fellow music-lovers? Very few experiences can top the feeling you get from soaking up fresh air and soundwaves simultaneously...

03/05/2024

Out now: FESTIVAL SEASON, PT 2: Four Winds Music Festival, with guests ARIANA DALIE & CRAIG SMITH
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Is there anything better than listening to your favourite band while sitting outside in the sun with friends, family, and fellow music-lovers? Very few experiences can top the feeling you get from soaking up fresh air and soundwaves simultaneously. So, as summer approaches, we bring you “Festival Season” - a special 3-part series on music festivals.

In this series, Jane talks to a few of the wonderful people that work around the clock to bring us these magical events.

Our guests for Part 2 are Ariana Dalie and Craig Smith of Four Winds Music Fest.

Ariana and Craig are “The Happiness Mafia”, a live music event and production company, that—in addition to presenting concerts throughout the year—is responsible for creating the Four Winds Music Festival. Four Winds takes place July 12-14 at the Riverstone Retreat in Durham, Ontario. This is the festival’s second year, and the lineup is a lovingly-curated offering of roots-rock, folk, singer-songwriter, world music and bluegrass.

In this episode, Ariana and Craig talk about how a phone call home from Antarctica started them on their current path, and how their passion for music plus their individual strengths enable them to create a shared dream: presenting year-round concerts, plus a 3-day summer festival on 136 acres of green space in Southern Ontario. 🌳

Available wherever you get your pods!

Is there anything better than listening to your favourite band while sitting outside in the sun with friends, family, and fellow music-lovers? Very few experiences can top the feeling you get from soaking up fresh air and soundwaves simultaneously...

01/05/2024

OUT NOW - EP 45: FESTIVAL SEASON, Pt. 1, with guest Spencer Shewen of Mariposa Folk Festival and Riverfest Elora!
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Is there anything better than listening to your favourite band while sitting outside in the sun with friends, family, and fellow music-lovers? Very few experiences can top the feeling you get from soaking up fresh air and soundwaves simultaneously. So, as summer approaches, we bring you “Festival Season” - a special 3-part series on music festivals.

In this series, Jane talks to a few of the wonderful people that work around the clock to bring us these magical events.

ABOUT SPENCER SHEWEN:
Throughout his many years working with music festivals, Spencer has learned that producing a successful music festival is a juggling act, a listening exercise, a game of strategy, and an endurance test. But, the payoff is big and joyous and filled with amazing music and good times! In this conversation, Spencer talks about his experience with both festivals, some of the artists that he’s excited about presenting this year, and how a cardboard Tony Danza ended up touring with .

Is there anything better than listening to your favourite band while sitting outside in the sun with friends, family, and fellow music-lovers? Very few experiences can top the feeling you get from soaking up fresh air and soundwaves simultaneously...

18/04/2024

Another brand new video from Episode 25 guest, the amazing Jerry Leger! Check it out.

from the album 'Donlands' out on Latent RecordingsOrder/save 'Donlands': https://eek.lnk.to/DonlandsProduced by Mark Howard"Out There Like The Rain" written ...

11/04/2024

Episode 44: CRAIG SMALL - Making Music Look Amazing
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Featuring designer, animator and director Craig Small of The Juggernaut Productions.
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Craig Small is an award-winning visual artist, director, and animator. A co-founder of The Juggernaut Productions, Craig is constantly inventing unique and striking ways to creatively present ideas. His work is  highly sought after by A-list ...

22/03/2024

Ep. 43: LUCY ROSE CASH - The Windswept Perfectionist
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Lucy Rose Cash joins us for her first ever podcast appearance! Lucy is a Toronto-based singer-songwriter. Her debut album— Windswept Perfectionist—is a 7-song outpouring of tender emotion and compassionate insight. Produced by José Miguel Contreras (By Divine Right), the songs capture beautifully the rawness of a budding self-awareness and the fragility of relationships.

Lucy has been surrounded by creativity from birth. Her father (Andrew Cash) is a musician/songwriter, and her mother (Michelle Shook) is a visual artist. As a result, Lucy has explored many art forms, including art, drama, and dance. But it is music that appears to capture her imagination on a daily basis. In this interview, Lucy talks about how the album came to be, her love of music, and how songwriting can often be a distraction from math homework. 😉

The episode also includes the Music Buddy Session version of Lucy’s song “Yes Please”.
Performed by Lucy Rose Cash, Jane Gowan and Tim Vesely.

Available wherever you get your podcasts!

Lucy Rose Cash is a Toronto-based singer-songwriter. Her debut album— Windswept Perfectionist—is a 7-song outpouring of tender emotion and compassionate insight. Produced by José Miguel Contreras (By Divine Right), the songs capture beautifully th...

20/03/2024

Had a lovely conversation with the talented singer-songwriter Lucy Rose Cash for Episode 43, launching Friday! We also recorded her song “Yes Please” for the Music Buddy Sessions. Tune in wherever you get your pods. 🎧

📸: Tim Vesely

15/03/2024

“One of Everyone (The Music Buddy Sessions, Season 2)”, by .kerr2 aka Communism - OUT TODAY!
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From Ep. 27, here’s a groovy, unique and soulful tune to make you dance, smile, and hug your neighbour. 🤗

Available wherever you stream your music!

Written by Don Kerr
Performed by Don Kerr, and Tim Vesely
Mixed/Mastered by Tim V.
Cover photo & design by Jane G.

Thanks for listening. Choose your preferred music service!

01/03/2024

CLARIFICATION: Jerry or Geri?
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In Ep. 42, guest Yvonne Matsell talks about how in the wild heyday of the Queen Street music scene, when she was booking music for the Ultrasound club, her son Morgan had a teenage crush on the model/actress “Jerry Hall” (who didn’t?!). However, it was the English singer-songwriter and TV personality “Geri Halliwell” a.k.a. “Ginger Spice” that Morgan was interested in meeting (no offense to Jerry H.), and this photo is proof that his Mom made it happen! Thanks, Morgan for letting us post this sweet photo!

28/02/2024

Episode 42: YVONNE MATSELL: The Queen of Queen Street

Yvonne Matsell is a celebrated music booker and long-time friend of the Canadian indie music scene. As the live music talent buyer for clubs like Ultrasound, Ted's Wrecking Yard, The Horseshoe Tavern and The Reverb Room, Yvonne gave countless indie bands their first decent gigs, and watched as many of them went on to become success stories and musical household names. Just a few of the bands and artists that flourished as a result of Yvonne's magic touch include: Skydiggers, Lowest Of The Low, Rheostatics, Ba*****ed Ladies, Headstones, Matt Mays, Ron Sexsmith, Sarah Slean, Hawksley Workman, Feist, and Broken Social Scene.

In a business that can often be tough, gritty and uber-competitive, Yvonne remains "one of the good ones". A deep love of music, good humour, generosity, and a willingness to work tirelessly on behalf of artists, has made her one of the most admired and respected people in the Canadian music landscape.

Yvonne Matsell is a celebrated music booker and long-time friend of the Canadian indie music scene. As the live music talent buyer for clubs like Ultrasound, Ted's Wrecking Yard, The Horseshoe Tavern and The Reverb Room, Yvonne gave countless indi...

16/02/2024

"Morning Sky (The Music Buddy Sessions, Season 2)", by To the Fields - OUT NOW!

A warm and sun-soaked ballad that will make you dream of the arrival of Spring.

Recorded for Episode 26
Written by Seth Akira Feldman
Performed by Seth Feldman, Jane Gowan and Tim Vesely
Recorded by Tim Vesely & Jane Gowan
Mixed by Tim Vesely

Available wherever you get your music!

Thanks for listening! Choose your preferred music service.

07/02/2024

New song & video from Ep 23 guest Monique Barry!

Lake Shanty is an intimate, musical encapsulation of my love and devotion to cold water swimming.Footage shot by Monique Barry at Michael Hough Beach, Ontari...

07/02/2024

Episode 41: RON SEXSMITH AT SIXTY: Another Spin Around the Sun.

In this in-depth conversation, internationally-acclaimed and award-winning singer-songwriter Ron Sexsmith guides host Jane Gowan and co-host Tim Vesely through the storied travels and charmed encounters of his illustrious career to date.

Internationally-acclaimed and award-winning singer-songwriter Ron Sexsmith first sang and strummed his way into the hearts of music lovers in the early-mid 1990s. At that time, the distorted fuzz and raw angst of grunge bands dominated the airwave...

17/01/2024

Episode 40: STEPHEN STANLEY - Before the Collapse of the Hive

An in-depth discussion with the singer-songwriter Stephen Stanley!

Available now wherever you get your podcasts. :)

Stephen Stanley is not just a gifted musician and singer/songwriter, but also a wonderful storyteller. His song introductions are almost legendary, and for anyone who witnessed his facebook live shows during the height of the pandemic, you'll know...

14/01/2024

Thanks for listening! Choose your preferred music service.

12/01/2024

"Did What I Could (The Music Buddy Sessions, Season 2)", by John Borra Music - OUT NOW!

Recorded for Episode 28
Written by John Borra
Performed by John Borra, Jane Gowan and Tim Vesely
Recorded by Tim Vesely & Jane Gowan
Mixed/mastered by Tim Vesely

Available wherever you get your music!

This is a classic tale of love found and lost, and the lives created in between. John writes timeless songs with universal themes. Please check out his other albums, and definitely go and see him playing live whenever you can - he's one of the hardest working guys in show biz!

Thanks for listening! Please choose your preferred music service.

01/01/2024

Happy New Year! We’d like to welcome in 2024 with the release of a new Music Buddy Session single: “Tabula Rasa” by the timeless and eloquent Laurie Brown.

Recorded for Episode 21
Words by Laurie Brown
Music by Jane Gowan & Tim Vesely
Mixed by Tim Vesely
Link in bio :)

This is our first “spoken word” collaboration. It is inspired by Laurie’s wonderful podcast Pondercast, and the mythical-magical sound-and-word-scapes created for that show by Laurie and musician Joshua Van Tassel.

Wishing you all an inspired, creative, healthy, happy and peaceful New Year.

Thanks for listening! Please choose your preferred music service.

28/12/2023

Here’s some raw footage of laying down the vocal and guitar for his Music Buddy Session version of his song “Nothing Pressing”.

For the gear heads out there, that’s an RCA 44 ribbon mic that Jerry’s singing into - .vesely thought it would work great on Jerry’s voice, and he was so right! The finished song can now be streamed or downloaded wherever you get your good music! Link in bio.

Thanks for listening, everyone 🎵 Let us know what you think of the Music Buddy Sessions so far!

Watch, follow, and discover more trending content.

26/12/2023

Out today - the first Music Buddy Session release of Season 2, from the remarkable Mr. Jerry Leger! 🎄

For Episode 25 of the Pod, Jerry brought us his beautiful and timeless song “Nothing Pressing”. This is the title track from his 2022 album of the same name, and we’re so happy to offer you an alternate version. Featuring Jerry Leger on lead vocals and guitar, Jane Gowan on piano and backup vox, and Tim Vesely on bass, percussion, and mixing magic.

No matter where you are or what you celebrate today, we hope your day is merry and bright, and that 2024 welcomes more wonderful music into to your life. Keep singing! Peace and harmony to everyone, everywhere. ☮️ 💚

Thanks for listening! Choose your preferred music service.

21/12/2023

Happy Winter Solstice everyone! Episode 39 has launched, and it’s our 2nd annual Solstimas episode - the most Buddy-ful time of the year!

Once again, we asked friends of the podcast to send us their thoughts on winter and the holidays, and to suggest a favourite seasonal song.

A huge thank you to all our guests, whose talents and kindnesses continue to warm our hearts and blow our minds.

A big warm fuzzy shoutout to our “Music Buddy Christmas Office Party” guest, Dave Ullrich (The Inbreds, Zunior.com, Lemonade Dave, Salad Days), who dropped by in person to join in the fun, talk about the special Salad Days xmas day episode, and offer up an indie holiday gem that’s fun for the whole family.

The Solstimas Buddies, in order of appearance:

🌟🌟🌟
Monique Barry
Ansley Simpson
Dave Ullrich (Zunior.com, The Inbreds, Salad Days Pod, Lemonade Dave)
Jerry Leger
Sofy Castro (The Jade Hearts)
John Borra
Rich Aucoin
Kelly Crowe
Eduardo Ottoni (Spygirl, Event Lab)
Annelise Noronha
Bobbe Ruck

https://www.musicbuddy.ca/1817893/14141086

It's the most Buddy-ful time of the year! Welcome to the 2nd Annual Solstimas episode.Once again, we asked friends of the podcast to send us their thoughts on winter and the holidays, and to suggest a favourite seasonal song.  A huge thank yo...

08/12/2023

Out now: A new Music Buddy Session Single: “Nobody Wants to be Alone”, by Andrew Cash
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Recorded at The Woodshed Studio for Ep. 6 of Music Buddy, this gorgeous plaintive ballad is classic Andrew Cash, in its pointed but empathetic observation of the human condition. This is the first release from Andrew since 2007’s “Murder =“, and we’re so honoured to bring it to you. Link in bio.

Featuring:
Andrew Cash (vocals/guitar)
Jane (accordion/vocals)
Tim Vesely (bass)
Recorded and mixed by Tim Vesely
Cover photo by Charlie Cash
Cover art by Jane Gowan

Choose your preferred music service

29/11/2023

EP 38: ANDREW RUCKLIDGE - The Fine Art of Bobbe Ruck

Andrew Rucklidge is an award-winning Canadian visual artist, whose paintings have shown all over the world, and can be found in collections from Toronto, to London, to Dharemshala, India. Andrew is also a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter, who has played in several bands, including Farmer in the City (Martin Tielli), John Southworth, The New Romantic Portal, The Linoleum Falcon, Cactus Club, and—currently—Dopamine Dream. He also records as a solo artist under the name Bobbe Ruck.

This conversation delves into the nuanced and wondrous overlap between the worlds of music and art: creating layered and textured sounds with a "painterly" approach, or conjuring fantastical abstracts inspired by albums played on repeat. You'll also learn the definition of "Gnome Rock", why an "eggy bridge" breaks the rules, and how making your own paint from scratch is like working with a Moog synthesizer.

You'll also be treated to the Music Buddy Session version of Andrew's song "Too Little to Lose". Performed by Bobbe Ruck, Tim Vesely, and Jane Gowan. Recorded and mixed by Tim.

Andrew Rucklidge is an award-winning Canadian visual artist, whose paintings have shown all over the world, and can be found in collections from Toronto, to London, to Dharemshala, India. Andrew is also a multi-instrumentalist and songwriter, who ...

24/11/2023

NEW M.B. SESSION SINGLE: “Without Warning”, by 🎵

Recorded for Episode 24 of the pod, this song showcases the power and depth of Ansley’s musicianship and story-telling. The original version of the song appears on Ansley’s epic and gorgeous 2022 album, She Fell From the Sky.

Performed by Ansley Simpson, Jane Gowan and Tim Vesely. Recorded and mixed by Tim.

Available now to stream or download!

https://ffm.to/without-warning

Choose your preferred music service

08/11/2023

EP 37: ANNELISE NORONHA - Engineering a Life in Music
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Annelise Noronha is an award-winning audio engineer, producer, composer, musician, singer/songwriter, and actor.

In the early days of her career, Annelise found herself honing her production skills at Manta Sound—her first big studio job—where she worked on studio recordings for the likes of Oscar Peterson, James Brown, and Jennifer Lopez.

Since that time she has gone on to work with music professionals at the top of their game, such as Producer John Whynot (Blue Rodeo, Bruce Cockburn, Kathleen Edwards), and Oscar-winning composer Mychael Danna.

Annelise currently lives in Prince Edward County, Ontario, where she records and produces music from her home studio.

THE MUSIC BUDDY SESSION:
"Little Bird", by Annelise Noronha
Performed by Annelise Noronha, Tim Vesely, and Jane Gowan
Recorded by Tim Vesely at the Woodshed Studio, Toronto. Mixed and mastered by Tim.

Annelise Noronha is an award-winning audio engineer, producer, composer, musician, singer/songwriter, and actor. In the early days of her career, Annelise found herself honing her production skills at Manta Sound—her first big studio job—where she...

31/10/2023

Music Buddy has been nominated for a Canadian Podcast Award in the categories of “Outstanding Music Series” and “Outstanding Main Title Theme Music for a Series” !! 🤩

Thank you The Canadian Podcast Awards for this recognition, and congratulations to the other nominees (see list below)! I’m proud and honoured to be part of the amazing Canadian podcast community. It’s a beautiful and rich tapestry of ideas and stories and humour and creativity. The possibilities are endless, and this nomination is encouragement to keep doing it better and growing our community of music-loving people.

Thank you to my co-producer, friend and bandmate Tim Vesely for all his sublime musicality, hard work and good humour. And thank you to my husband Ron Deibert for his constant support and encouragement. I know we haven’t won, but how often do you get nominated? Gotta dole out the thank yous while you can.

And of course thank you to our wonderful and generous and talented guests who inspire me to keep this show going. And to my pals Steve Wright and Connie Kostiuk for their parts in the theme song (which is called “Human Stuff”, FYI). And one more - to my pal Paul Romanuk, who won who won last year for Music Series and Series Art for The Walrus Was Paul podcast

Here’s the list of the other pods that were nominated in these categories. Check them out if you get a chance:

For “Outstanding Music Series”:





For “Outstanding Main Title Theme…”:







Good luck all!
xo Jane

27/10/2023

MERCH ALERT! Presenting “The Buddy Beanie” - a stylish and sustainable addition to your fall wardrobe or winter gift list.

Made from recycled polyester, and embroidered with the Music Buddy logo, this cosy toque is available in 2 colours: black (with blue logo) and grey (with gold logo).

Available now on our Bandcamp page - link in linktree 👆🏼Your purchase will help support the podcast 💜

Thank you to our hat models:
- Ethan Deibert & Sofía Guadalupe Castro-Lopez (of The Jade Hearts)
- Lori Yates Music (Ep 36 guest)
- Seth Akira Feldman (of To the Fields) - Ep. 26 guest
- Annelise Noronha (upcoming guest!)

The Buddy Beanie from Music Buddy

07/07/2023

EP 31: DAVE ULLRICH - These Are The Daves
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Musician/entrepreneur Dave Ullrich is someone whose independent spirit and DIY talents have forged him a fruitful and fascinating career in and around music and the arts.

Dave started the much-loved indie rock duo The Inbreds with his high school friend Mike O'Neill (Trailer Park Boys, Tuns). Much revered for their originality and minimalist approach, the Inbreds became Canadian indie rock favourites in the 90s.

The band's popularity grew even more, after being asked to join the Tragically Hip's legendary Another Roadside Attraction tour in 1995. Later, they were also invited by Dave Grohl to open for the Foo Fighters on tour - an invitation that they famously turned down. Their 1994 album Kombinator was nominated for a Juno Award (Best Alternative Album), and a Much Music Video Award (for the song "Any Sense of Time").

After the Inbreds' breakup, Ullrich went on to start the online music store and label Zunior, and produce two indie music festivals in Prince Edward County: Sandbanks Music Festival and County Pop. From his time in The County sprung another enterprise - his craft lemonade business, called Lemonade Dave. And as if that's not enough, he’s now joined the ranks of the podcaster realm. Check out his wonderful podcast Salad Days for some great and insightful conversations with Canadian musicians.

Dave possesses a true gift for storytelling, and in this 2-parter conversation, you'll hear his enlightened perspectives on music, life and—of course—lemonade.

THE MUSIC BUDDY SESSION: "Any Sense of Time", by The Inbreds
Performed by Dave Ullrich (drums), Tim Vesely (lead vocals, bass), and Jane Gowan (vocals, Fender Rhodes)
Recorded at the Woodshed Studio by Tim Vesely; Mixed and mastered by Tim Vesely

Musician/entrepreneur Dave Ullrich is someone whose independent spirit and DIY talents have forged him a fruitful and fascinating career in and around music and the arts. Dave started the much-loved indie rock duo The Inbreds with his high school ...