Rehearsal Space

Kari Zalik

From award-winning country artist to influential industry leader, Kerry Kingsland’s passion for Manitoba’s music scene has helped shape and elevate our province’s country music community. With charting singles, Star Search success, and performances at major festivals, Kerry brought artistry and advocacy together in every role he’s taken on. As Past President of the MCMA, his commitment to building opportunities for artists and strengthening local music culture continues to resonate across the province. Here’s to his legacy and lasting impact on Manitoba’s vibrant country music family. He's also reasonably fun to party with at Country Fest.

Eric LaBossiere is a dynamic Winnipeg-born musician and the charismatic frontman of the North American pop-rock band Hello Fiasco, celebrated for his smooth, passionate vocals and compelling songwriting. Originally gaining recognition as the principal songwriter and lead singer of The Mailman’s Children, Eric’s creative vision helped define a unique sound that blends thoughtful lyricism with rich musical textures. With Hello Fiasco, his bold artistic evolution has produced a striking debut album, Find The Shoreline, earning widespread streaming success and critical attention for its blend of lyrical depth and pop-rock fervor. Known for his energetic performances and heartfelt connection with fans, Eric continues to push musical boundaries while staying true to his roots in both the Canadian and American music scenes. His dedication to his craft and his ability to create songs that resonate deeply with listeners make him one of Manitoba’s most inspiring contemporary artists.

Cory Noel is a seasoned Canadian radio personality and the magnetic host of The Drive Home Show on 96.5 CKFM, known for his engaging presence and deep connection with listeners. He began his broadcasting career in 2002 at Dauphin Broadcasting Ltd., quickly rising from practicum student to trusted on-air talent through sheer work ethic and natural storytelling ability. With nearly two decades of experience across hosting, music direction, and senior leadership roles, Cory has helped shape the sound and spirit of community radio across the region. I'm thrilled to welcome Cory to the podcast and share his insight, energy, and broadcasting excellence with our audience.

JR Charron is an acclaimed country-rock singer-songwriter from Binscarth, Manitoba whose powerful voice and heartfelt storytelling have made him one of the most exciting artists in the Manitoba country scene. He burst onto the scene with his debut EP Impression, which featured hits like “Song for You” that landed in the Top 10 on the Canadian Indie Country Charts and “Broke,” which charted in the Top 50. His high-energy performances and deeply personal songs have earned him multiple Manitoba Country Music Award nominations and a well-deserved Fans’ Choice win, showcasing both his talent and the loyalty of his rapidly growing fanbase. Charron’s music, blending gritty rock influence with genuine emotional depth, continues to resonate across stages and radio, with recent singles gaining traction. Beyond his artistic achievements, JR’s commitment to his craft and connection with listeners marks him as a standout force in Manitoba’s vibrant music community.

Diana Desjardins is a vibrant fixture on the Manitoba music scene whose warmth, versatility, and love for the craft shine through everything she does. Whether hosting her weekly songwriter night at the George, backing up Desiree Dorion, or performing as a solo artist in her own write, Diana always brings the most exceptional vocals to the stage. A passionate singer-songwriter based in Manitoba, Diana crafts songs rooted in country, blues, folk, and rock, often delivering them with raw emotion and a voice that feels both timeless and intimately personal. Her album "Pieces of Me" showcases this range beautifully, offering listeners heartfelt storytelling, evocative melodies, and an unmistakable sense of authenticity. Diana brings a spirit and genuine connection to her audience and that is a true testament to her dedication as an independent artist and beloved member of the Manitoba music community.

Shauna Muldrew is the Founder and Licensed Health Coach of Infinity Nutrition & Health Coaching in Winnipeg, Manitoba, where she specializes in women’s wellness, strength, and nutrition. Shauna’s extremely dramatic personal journey, overcoming unhealthy habits in her twenties and finding her healthiest self in her thirties, fuels her passion for coaching others in transforming lifestyle, sleep, stress, and well-being. With over a decade of experience in the health and fitness industry and formal training in kinesiology, holistic nutrition, and integrative health, she brings a well-rounded, evidence-informed approach to helping clients reach their goals.

https://www.instagram.com/winnipeghealthcoaching

Mitchell Makoons is a captivating Métis‑Anishinaabe roots‑rock singer‑songwriter from Brandon, Manitoba, now making waves in Manitoba's vibrant music scene. He began playing guitar at age seven, accompanying his grandfather and brother’s Métis fiddle tunes—an early foundation that deeply informs his authentic blend of traditional Ojibway culture and modern influences. His debut album Lady Boots, released in April 2024, features eight heartfelt tracks, four of which climbed into the top 10 of the Indigenous Music Countdown, with “Courage” and “Changing Man” reaching #1. Since 2022, Mitchell has earned acclaim as a nominee for multiple Manitoba Country Music Awards and was honored as Emerging Artist of the Year in 2024.

Derrick Gottfried is a remarkably talented guitarist and vocalist who infuses the classic Canadian rock band Harlequin with soulful expression and electrifying musicianship. His journey began as a determined freelance musician in Winnipeg and Toronto, collaborating with numerous esteemed Canadian artists before joining forces with Harlequin . As a seasoned session musician and writer, he brings refined versatility and creative depth to every performance—whether on stage with Harlequin or alongside The Ron Paley Orchestra. Derrick’s unwavering passion, combined with his dynamic artistry and decades of experience, makes him an invaluable cornerstone of Canada’s enduring rock scene. Check out his brand new release of his first solo music "Heaven Help Us".

Nucky JMC is an indie-pop artist from Winnipeg, Manitoba, known for his catchy melodies, heartfelt lyrics, and deep love for the prairies. His music blends emotional honesty with laid-back groove, creating a sound that’s as wide open and sincere as the landscapes that inspire him. With standout tracks like “Ferris Bueller” and “Red River Dancing,” he brings a fresh yet timeless feel to every release. He’s not just writing song, he’s capturing the spirit of the place he calls home.