Backstage Insider With Jim Norris

Renowned broadcaster and music expert Alan Cross shares his journey from young music fan to one of radio's most prominent figures.

He talks about his early influences, his experiences at CFNY and The Edge, how radio has evolved and why it still matters in today's music industry. Alan also previews his upcoming projects and the value of connecting with audiences through live presentations.

Website: www.ajournalofmusicalthings.com

Tim Hicks shares his musical journey and the strong influence of his family and early experiences on his career. He talks about his move into country music, how the genre has evolved and his experiences touring internationally. Tim also reflects on balancing his career with family life and offers advice for aspiring artists.

Website: www.timhicksmusic.com

Music producer and educator Mark Alexander shares his journey from young piano player to founder of his own company, 905 Music and Sound. He talks about his early influences, his move from teaching into music production and how technology has changed the industry.

Mark explains why adapting to new tools matters, the challenge of balancing work and family, and the role of AI in music creation and the future of the industry.

Website: 905music.com

Jason McCoy shares his journey from a supportive musical family in Ontario to becoming a prominent figure in country music with The Road Hammers. He talks about balancing a busy touring schedule with family life, working with younger artists and how his career has evolved.

Jason also explains why community matters in the music industry and shares insights into his radio career and future plans.

Jason McCoy website: www.jasonmccoy.com

The Road Hammers website: www.theroadhammers.ca

Brad Merritt of 54-40 shares his musical journey, from early family influences to the formation of the band. He talks about how their music has evolved, the challenges of the industry and balancing family life with a music career. Brad also previews the band's upcoming album and the creative process behind it, and reflects on 54-40's longevity and future plans.

Website: www.5440.com

Jonny Dovercourt, a leading figure in Toronto's music scene, talks about his musical roots, the evolution of Wavelength Music and its upcoming festival and conference. He shares his early influences, the challenges of promoting local music and why community matters in the indie scene.

Jonny also discusses his book, Any Night of the Week, which chronicles the history of Toronto's music scene and its cultural significance.

Website: www.wavelengthmusic.ca

Any Night of the Week publisher: chbooks.com

Chris McKhool shares his musical journey, from early influences in a musical family to forming his band, Sultans of String. He talks about the value of diverse musical styles, his switch from studying psychology to pursuing music, and the impact of community engagement and charity work.

Chris also describes the dynamics within the band, the joy of performing and why having fun and building connections matter in music.

Sultans of String website: sultansofstring.com

Fiddlefire website: fiddlefire.com

Canadian guitar icon Danny Marks shares stories from his career, including opening for legendary bands like Led Zeppelin and Humble Pie. He reflects on the thrill of performing, memorable encounters with iconic artists and how those experiences shaped his career and personal growth.

Website: dannym.com