Ivy James

Features Ayden Jacobs, Uforia, Ivy James and Terry Draper - Al Joynes

On this very night the most famous female singer in the world was performing her sleight-of-ear in Toronto and Ivy James couldn’t care less. Oddly at odds with the stupid and banal, this Oakville chanteuse has more rings on her tree of life than seems possible, an artist building her stage brick by brick with no blueprint in sight. In an era of likes and follows where talent show results and raw nepotism are often mistaken for talent, she is the real deal.

For those of you new to this forum, the “real deal” means believable. Honest, committed songwriting with crafted word play, crisp, impassioned playing with a definite groove and a voice both fierce and fragile add up to something wonderfully refreshing indeed.

An early knack for rhythm and melody served Ivy James well, and the shiny sneer of mid/late 90’s pop punk sparked the real fire in her to perform and soon she was forming the relationships that led to the creative collaborations – that led to the band – that allowed the simmering creativity escape the chains of youth. Never shying from a new challenge, pluck and determination began to mould the bass playing band mate into the engaging chanteuse and centre of attention she has now become.

It’s always nice to have someone new drop by Barber Shop Podcast with a quiver full of arrows and a killer attitude. It’s nice to see someone from out of town who doesn’t want for conviction. It’s nice to know that whatever the year and wherever the place, the truth continues to recruit it’s army of snipers who always shoot to kill.

Ivy James shows no fear on this night as she shares her songs and stories with the world, the least we can do is show no fear and listen.

Something new, something great, every week on Barber Shop Podcast.

http://www.ivyjamesmusic.com/ - Barber Shop Podcast

The Festival of Friends is set to welcome American soul singer Charles Bradley, Canadian rocker Randy Bachman and country music's Emerson Drive to the Ancaster Fairgrounds this summer.

Bradley, whose third album "Changes" was released in April, will headline the main stage on the festival's opening night, Friday, Aug. 5.

"That's as cool as there's gonna be in town this summer," says the festival's executive director Loren Lieberman. "Those who love him love him a lot."

The three-day musical smorgasbord, whose roots stretch back to 1976 in Gage Park, is now in its 41st year.

Bachman is Saturday's headline act, and will be on the main stage with The Sadies, known for their collaborations with fellow musicians, most notably as the backing band for Neko Case.

Lieberman calls it "as close to a Bachman-Turner Overdrive show as you're gonna get … It's Randy fully rockin' out."

Hamilton's punk-rock band of the 1980s, Teenage Head, will also play on the main stage Saturday.

For those familiar with the Festival of Friends, there's a strong country music component.

This year, Emerson Drive is Sunday's headline act, complemented by a slate of new-country performers including west-coaster Madeline Merlo, whose debut album "Free Soul" came out this spring.

This year's festival marks the first in its four-decade history without one of its founders, Bill Powell. Powell, who launched Festival of Friends in 1976, died last year.

Between Aug. 5 and 7, festivalgoers can also catch acts like Canadian indie-rock band The Elwins, '80s rocker Ray Lyell and The Storm, blues guitarist Alfie Smith, country singers Leah Daniels and Cory Marquardt, Oakville's Ivy James, Gananoque singer-songwriter Alex Leggett, Peterborough's The Silver Hearts, and locally made acts including Broken Issues, Chris Chambers, Emma Elena Grace, Melissa Marchese, Tomi Swick and The Number Stations.

More acts will be announced on the Festival of Friends website.

Along with the thousands who come through the gates to hear the music (Lieberman estimates last year's crowd at "a couple hundred thousand"), the popularity — and size — of the festival's music museum continues to grow, he says. Last year, some 7,500 guests browsed the collection of music memorabilia, which includes instruments, set lists, garments and other objects belonging to famed musical acts.

For the younger set, the festival will feature a children's area, and guests will also find the familiar fairway rides, a plethora of food options and some 150 craft vendors.

Admission to the Festival of Friends is free. For those arriving by car, parking costs $10 per day. HSR will also offer a shuttle (regular fares apply) from the city to the fairgrounds. - Hamilton Spectator

Ivy James is bringing her singer-songwriter music to Toronto's Canadian Music Week. We spoke briefly about her upcoming performance.

Hammer Records: Tell us what you think of when you think Canadian Music?

Ivy James: When I think about Canadian music, the first word that comes to mind is “supportive.” Canada is a great country to be a musician in and we have so much talent. Not only does our government support us with grant programs like FACTOR, but we also have great festivals like Canadian Music Week that bring all of us together and it really shows how supportive we are of one another.

Hammer Records: How did you get involved in Canadian Music Week?

Ivy James: This is my fourth year playing CMW. When I was 16 years old, I went to a workshop at Metalworks and they played a video encouraging musicians to apply through Sonicbids. This was just after I had released my first EP and I ended up being selected. CMW was actually one of my first shows. Four years later, I'm lucky enough to still be a part of such a great festival.

Hammer Records: What do you have planned for Canadian Music Week?

Ivy James: I've got a few tricks up my sleeve. This will be my first year performing with a full band instead of as a solo acoustic artist, so that's exciting! It's also going to be one of the first shows in support of my new EP, which is scheduled for release in early May.

Hammer Records: What message do you want to send to Canadians listening to your music?

Ivy James: I try very hard to write all of my music from a genuine and honest place. If anything, I hope that people who listen to my music understand that I went through a rough time and they can relate to that in their own lives. It's okay not to be okay, as long as you know that one day you will be.

Hammer Records: Whats coming up for you?

Ivy James: I have a new EP coming out! The date is still being finalized but it's looking like early May. I'm also playing some shows this summer that I can't announce yet, so stay tuned for that. You can find me on Facebook (Facebook.com/ivyjamesmusic), Twitter (Twitter.com/ivyjames), Instagram (Instagram.com/ivyjames) and YouTube (YouTube.com/ivyjamesmusic). My music is available through iTunes, Bandcamp and other online channels. - Hammer Records

May 6 was the night of the singer-songwriter as Whitby's T.J. Kingston, Oakville's Ivy James, and Deloraine's Nathan Nasby all took the stage at The Dance Cave.

T.J. Kingston was visibly nervous during the first half of his set, but gradually became more comfortable as the night went on and the crowd grew in size. Kingston has clearly been playing guitar for a long time, and was able to show off his skills during his fast-paced cover of City and Colour's "The Girl". His warm, full voice is perfectly suited to fellow Canadian Dallas Green's song, and his slightly folksy vibe is very reminiscent of The Avett Brothers. Overall, Kingston proved that a stripped down, simple set does not automatically make for a dull or uninteresting set, and The Dance Cave's smaller, more intimate setup made me feel as if Kingston was singing to the audience, not at them.

Ivy James reminded me of Vanessa Carlton in the best way possible, with a repertoire of songs about topics ranging from love to loneliness. Her song "Come Home", which James explained was the first song she ever wrote, was one of the best of the night; with her guitar playing talent and pop punk-ish intonation of the lyrics, it was almost as if I was hearing Simple Plan and Ingrid Michaelson rolled into one - not something I thought I would ever say, but definitely not a bad thing. "Let It Go" allowed James to show off her vocal range - while the high notes she had to hit during the chorus were noticeably softer and less powerful than the verse's lower notes, she still hit every single one. Another highlight of James' set was the driving, harsher sounding "Ghost", written about a past love and containing a lower-pitched, bass-y sounding bridge.

This was Nathan Nasby's first time playing in Toronto, and he did not disappoint. His softer-sounding, higher-pitched voice was a pleasant surprise, as his more rugged appearance left me expecting to hear something along the lines of a Gavin DeGraw or a Rob Thomas. The straightforward guitar playing from Nasby was complimented well by the twangy, finger-picking style of back up performer Robbie Hancock, who also supplied vocal harmonies for some of the songs. Though the harmonies were nice, I would have liked to hear them more clearly; Nasby's voice often overpowered Hancock's to the point where Hancock's voice was barely noticeable. Kudos to both Nasby and Hancock for being able to concentrate and power through their set despite the sound of drums and guitar leaking in from downstairs. The ending of a couple of Nasby's songs, specifically "Say Those Words" and "Field of Dreams", sounded a bit abrupt and unresolved, but overall his self-assured stage presence and relaxed, laid-back vocal performance were very enjoyable to watch and listen to. - The Scope at Ryerson

The problem with motivated people is, through no fault of their own, they make you feel despondent about your own perceived successes. Such is the case with 17-year-old singer-songwriter and Oakville, Ont.-local, Ivy James. With a whole swag of awards under her belt, including Best Singer-Songwriter from the Toronto Independent Music Awards, and a hectic performance schedule, James’ killer combination of vocal prowess, lyrical wit, and ingenuity make her a musical force. She also performed during Canadian Music Week and continues to perform her acoustic set from her new self-titled EP with six songs – all self-written. All this whilst still at school.

James is demure about her successes and attributes her growing fan base to her “awkwardness”. There is nothing of the adolescent gawkiness she refers to, in her music or in her pretence as we speak. The eclectic listening experiences growing up, including her mom’s fascination with The Dave Matthew’s Band and Eminem, through to her own childhood obsession with Avril Lavigne, have all been formative musical experiences.

These, however, are not James’ inspirations. Her songs are born from the lyrics and a sense of the melody. These are further fleshed out, and developed with the guitar as merely a backing; her guitar playing, she’ll admit, isn’t great. There is a sense that the guitar is a just a rhythmic accompaniment to her voice.

And what does she think of her voice? She describes as somewhat of a “curse”. James has the soulfulness and honesty of other female songwriters, like Missy Higgins and Lisa Mitchell, but finds more musical parallels with punk and rock than anything else. In fact, she goes so far to describe her music as “acoustic, rock, pop, with a dash of punk”.

Her punk sentiments are reflected in her possessive attitude towards anyone meddling with her music, most particularly her lyrics, influenced by local muses, such as Crystalline and Lights. The lyrics are metaphor-laden; at times, a thinly veiled account, others more flexible in their interpretation, which, aside from the rare interpersonal reference, is James’ intention.

In ‘Galaxies’, she muses on the universe and the insignificance of her own foibles. This doesn’t at all feel like the realm of the angst-ridden teenager; is this an attempt to appeal to anyone who’s reflected on the futility of their own problems?

James does feel that her songs are more so aimed at her age bracket. She muses that whilst “old people” probably won’t get much out of her music, it’s other teenagers she wants to speak to. Yours truly, as an “old person” at the wizened age of 27, I felt her music doesn’t feel inaccessible; in fact, it’s the maturity beyond her years that is highly endearing. This manifests in her confidence on stage and the desire to keep audiences interested.

While she recalls moments of mistuned guitars, forgotten lyrics and online comment-board criticism, James is taking it all in her stride, along with a number of other challenging life scenarios. All the more emotional fodder to assimilate into her lyrics.

The judges of the recent Toronto Independent Music awards were amazed at the musical maturity with which she sang, and had to double check that she was, in fact, 16. Being that age can have its drawbacks; she recalls at being kicked out of venues right after her gigs during Canadian Music Week, but she’s not about to set a bad example by faking her age or an ID. Always with her younger listeners (not audience) in mind, James’ is always seeking to act as a role model, going so far to protect her listeners’ ears from the crassness of current music trends, by tempering her own language.

James’ admits she has much to learn, whilst still having singing lessons and taking advice on her music, she’s finding her musical education has failed to educate her about the music industry, and she’s learning as she goes. She sees her solo guitar eventually growing to a full band, but only while she can stubbornly continue to write her own music. And further musical education? Hells no.

Maybe I don’t feel so despondent after all then. - Raz Mataz Magazine

What does it really take to get noticed by industry experts and recording stars like Bif Naked and Jully Black? Well, a fiery personality, catchy melodies and a guitar doesn’t hurt. Meet Ivy James. She’s only 16-years old, but Ivy already possesses a songwriting talent and a musical maturity well beyond her years.

With lyrics like “I didn’t need my second chance so I threw it away” from ‘Your Escape (Nate’s Song)’ and “it’s so pointless wishing on burnt out stars” from ‘Thunder’, it’s pretty clear - Ivy’s foray into the music world is not temporary. Armed with just her guitar, Ivy recorded and released her self-titled debut EP in June 2012 filled with six self-written heart-twisting acoustic melodies. In October 2012, Ivy won Best Young Songwriter at the Toronto Independent Music awards and ironic enough - wasn’t even able attend the awards show because she was under 19.

While you can hear a pop-rock influence attributable to her musical inspirations, Avril Lavigne and Marianas Trench, Ivy’s work is unique, notably for her distinct vocals and riveting, vulnerable lyrics, which comes as no surprise as she’s previously described performing as “screaming your secrets on stage.”

What’s next? Well she was selected to play at the 2013 Canadian Music Week and actually just performed last night, on March 20!

We had a brief chat with the rising starlet as she prepped for the CMW festival.

Q: What was the defining moment in your life that helped you decide that you wanted to pursue music as a career?

A: I think I’ve always had this thought in the back of my head which said, “hey, it would be really cool if I could write songs and sing them for people.” I never thought it would get this far. My defining moment was probably when a girl I had never met came up to me and showed me she had my songs on her iPod. That was when I realized music was no longer a hobby and that I really wanted to take this as far as I could.

Q: You were named “Best Young Songwriter” at the Toronto Independent Music Awards in 2012. Where do you draw your inspiration from when writing a song?

A: I get inspiration from a lot of things, usually from whatever’s happening in my life at the moment. It’s an amazing outlet. If I’m upset or angry, instead of bottling things up, I can just write a song and get it off my chest. I would say 99% of my songs are about things I’ve gone through and how I’ve dealt with them.

Q: You’ve been involved with several local charities. Tell us about the organizations you support and why you chose to be involved.

A: I love charity shows! I’ve been lucky enough to be able to work with great charities like CYAN, Big Brothers, Rotary Cheshire Homes and the Canadian Helen Keller Centre. It’s extremely important to me to help people in any way I can, even if that’s just by playing my music to help people have a good time.

I’ve been involved with these charities for years and have met so many amazing people along the way. I have a special personal connection with every charity that I choose to work with.

Q: What do you hope to achieve in 2013?

I just recorded a bunch of new songs. In 2013, I hope I can keep writing, keep playing and release more music. I am so excited for my show at Canadian Music Week tonight! - Tunezy

Sounds like

I try to avoid drawing comparisons between artists, but remember back in the day when Avril Lavigne first burst on to the scene? She was a sweet small-town 17-year-old girl with a hint of a fun wild streak to her. There was an irresistible charm to her personality. Now imagine another sweet 16 year-old girl, this time from Oakville, with a bit more poetic and emotional depth to her lyrics than “He was a sk8er boi/You said see you later, boy.” That’s Ivy James in a nutshell.

The Story So Far

Influenced by artists the likes of Avril Lavigne and Marianas Trench, James has always had music in her heart. She is currently working with vocal coach and Juno-nominated, Micah Barnes. She also plays guitar, bass, double bass, ukulele, keyboard/piano, drums, and trombone.

In June of 2012, James released her acoustic self-titled EP–a record filled with personal experiences and cathartic lyrics. And just like that, she was named Best Young Songwriter for the tracks ”Thunder” and “Your Escape (Nate’s Song) by the Toronto Independent Music Awards this past October.

James performs regularly in and around Toronto. This year saw her play the 10th annual JuneFest at Mel Lastman Square, Oakville’s YouthFest, and the KOI Music Festival in Kitchener, featuring acts such as Silverstein, GOB, and illScarlett. She’ll be playing the Canadian Music Week in 2013.

She is currently in the studio working on a new record.

Why You Should Listen

For the sheer experience of being stopped dead in your tracks as you ask yourself, “She’s how old?” Ivy can’t even play in half of the venues she wants to play in because she’s not allowed into 19+ shows. She wasn’t even present when she won the Toronto Independent Music Award for Best Young Songwriter because she was underage!

Albums

Ivy James EP

Websites

www.ivyjamesmusic.com
https://www.facebook.com/ivyjamesmusic
https://twitter.com/ivyjames
http://www.myspace.com/ivyjamesmusic
http://ivyjames.bandcamp.com/ - Toronto Rhapcity

The artwork on Ivy James‘ self-titled EP is travel-themed; it has postage and passport stamps from places all around the world. It seems like a fitting theme for the record, because despite her age, James seems to have traveled many roads in life.

Take “Your Escape (Nate’s Song)” for example. The chorus sings, “Darling, this world is a one man show/And I can’t take you where I need to go/Darling, this town is a lonely place/And I don’t know how to be your escape.” Let that sink in for a second. Think about your sixteen year old sister, niece, or cousin. Thank back to your own teenage years. That is self-awareness and personal strength beyond the capabilities of your typical sixteen year old. Most adults don’t have the emotional or mental intelligence to utter such words to their partner.

The fact that it’s an acoustic record adds to James’ charm. She admits, “The best songs are always the hardest to write because you have to tap into emotions that you don’t necessarily understand yourself.” The songstress delves into emotional nuances with grace, and the acoustic guitar magnifies the intimacy of those nuances. The record is stripped down, yet elegant; innocent, yet worn; simple, yet complex.

In an industry that is littered with young teenagers who sing empty songs about their “baby,” songs they didn’t even write, James is a breath of fresh air. She understands the power and poetry of individual words. She has the potential to be the outspoken and confident role model that helps inspire young girls to find their own voice. I am excited to see her grow as an artist and an individual. - Toronto Rhapcity

Young Oakville pop-rocker Ivy James has been added to the Canadian Music Week bill.

The music festival will be in Toronto from March 19-24.

The festival features more than 1,000 performers performing in 60 venues over a six-day period.

The festival will see some high profile musicians this year, including Rihanna and Ron Sexmith.

James, a White Oaks Secondary School student, received the best young songwriter award at the Toronto Independent Music Awards. - Inside Halton / Oakville Beaver

Oakville rising star Ivy James is truly becoming recognized at every corner of southern Ontario. Coming off a Toronto Independent Music Award victory, the 16-year-old musician has now been named a finalist for the Hamilton Music Awards’ Rising Star Search. - Inside Halton / Oakville Beaver

Oakville’s Ivy James may not be old enough to go to a bar or a 19-plus club, but that’s not stopping her from performing on the stage of one.

The 16-year-old has already made quite a career for herself and now she’s been rewarded for her hard work.

The Grade 11 White Oaks Secondary School student has won a Toronto Independent Music Award (TIMA) for best young songwriter.

“I feel great. It was an honour just to be nominated so winning just put it over the top,” the singer-songwriter said.

The awards were handed out earlier this month in Toronto. James could not attend the 19-plus awards ceremony, but it did not detract from the victory, which she said will help further her career along.

“It was awesome to not only be recognized but to be able to reach people through this, that I couldn’t reach before,” she said.

James admits being young is an obstacle for a musician, but it hasn’t stopped her.

“It does cause some problems. I couldn’t go to the awards ceremony because it’s 19-plus. There have been venues I wanted to play at but they’ve been 19-plus so I wasn’t able to. But there are always ways around it,” she said.

Furthermore, not all 19-plus venues will stop under-19 performers. Some will allow musicians to come with parents, others will allow musicians to perform and then leave immediately.

James recently released her debut, self-titled EP. For TIMA, she submitted two tracks off the album, Thunder and Your Escape (Nate’s Song).

“They’re the two I felt the best about,” she said of entering the songs. “I thought they were the strongest and they both meant the most to me so I just felt they would be good ones to enter.”

James beat out hundreds of other musicians to win the award. Despite her victory, she acknowledged there were amazing musicians in her category and she was proud to have been nominated in the first place.

James has had a summer full of performances and has a number of shows coming up.

On Nov. 2, she’s performing at the Rockpile in Etobicoke. The following day, she’s performing at Toronto’s Bloor Street United Church. On Nov. 11, she will at a showcase for Warner Music Canada in Toronto. Then, on Dec. 11, she’ll be performing with Juno Award-nominated Micah Barnes at Hugh’s Room in Toronto.

The Ivy James EP features six original tracks. For more information, visit www.ivyjamesmusic.com - Inside Halton / Oakville Beaver

One of the great things about having started E-vent Thrill is getting in touch with new, talented and innovative artists, seeing them grow and being included on their journey. One of the artists that we approached a while back and have consistently kept in touch with since then is Ivy James. We’ve been getting emails from her publicist with all of the updates concerning this very talented artist. We wanted to do something in return, which is why we have decided to do a Q&A with Ivy to give us a chance to get caught up with the young artist and for you to learn all about her great accomplishments and much success to be had in the future.?

To catch you up Ivy James (www.facebook.com/ivyjamesmusic) is an award-winning independent acoustic, pop-rock singer/songwriter that is known for her thought-provoking lyrics and strong, unique vocals. As well, if you are unfamiliar with James’ music here are some things you can expect to hear from this multi-talented artist. According to James the songs that she writes are “… about things happening around me and my personal experiences,” and, “a lot of songs are about getting through things and doing the best you can and not letting anybody stop you.” James credits her biggest musical influences: Canadian musicians Josh Ramsay (Marianas Trench) and Avril Lavigne. “This is the kind of music I’ve been listening to since I was really young. Avril Lavigne was the first singer-songwriter I got into,” she said. (http://www.eventthrill.com/#!ivy-james/c1jcd)?

James’ debut, self-titled EP contains six original songs and was released in June 2012. James wrote all of the music on the album, which was produced by Ryan Switzer of Massive Tank Studios (Oakville, ON). The EP is available on iTunes, HMV (Canada), Amazon.ca, and on James’ web site (www.ivyjamesmusic.com).
Fast forward to now: Ivy James named Best Young Songwriter at Toronto Independent Music Awards. The emerging indie-rock songstress was honored for “Thunder” and “Your Escape (Nate’s Song)”, the first two tracks from her debut, self-titled EP. Released in June 2012, Ivy’s EP is currently on New Canadian Music’s Emerging Artists chart in the company of acts including Lights and the Arkells.?

“”Thunder” and “Your Escape (Nate’s Song)” will always be important to me because the writing process helped me through a tough situation and they were the first step towards my EP, which I had been thinking about for a long time,” said Ivy James. ?

“The best songs are always the hardest to write because you have to tap into emotions that you don’t necessarily understand yourself. As the writer, the song may mean one thing to me and something completely different to someone else. I think that’s why people connect so well with music; you take what you want from it.”
Ivy continues to perform live in support of her EP. Upcoming performances include the Hamilton Music Awards Rising Star Search on November 16th, for which Ivy is a finalist. Ivy is also scheduled to perform in a showcase for Universal Music at Toronto’s Velvet Underground on December 9th, at Hugh’s Room on December 11th with Juno nominated artist and former member of The Nylons Micah Barnes, and at Canadian Music Week 2013. ?

1. That is a lot to take in and to think that all happened between the months of June-October. How do you feel about it??

It's surreal. Six months ago I was doing this as a hobby in my room and now I’m getting to meet new people and see new places. It feels great to be able to share my passion and have my music connect with so many people.??

2. What are some wise words that you can share with others who are in the music industry and are trying to get their music known to the people that you have met along the way?

Make sure you're in it for the right reasons. It's tough and you have to deal with a lot of rejection, so you have to love it enough to stick through it. Talk to as many people in the industry as possible and ask for their advice. They're the people you need to impress in the end, so asking them questions and getting their feedback is one of the most valuable things you can do.?

3. What is the toughest part about writing a song? Do you usually think of the lyrics first then compose?

The toughest part for me has always been trying to get across what I'm trying to say. Writing metaphors and clever lines is easy, but tapping into true emotion is something I struggle with at times. I usually have an idea of where I want the song to go before I write the lyrics, but I tend to write both lyrics and the music as I go.?

4. A majority of artists are now doing cover songs to post on YouTube. Has singing covers and posting them online ever interested you? If so what song would you be guilty of covering?

I've actually done a few covers that are up on my YouTube channel. My most recent one was “Let Her Go” by Passenger. It's an amazing song. I would love to cover something fun and upbeat like “We Are Never Ever G - E-vent Thrill

16-year-old Oakville singer-songwriter Ivy James won Best Young Songwriter at the Toronto Independent Music Awards (TIMA) on Oct. 6, 2012. The emerging indie-rock songstress was honored for “Thunder” and “Your Escape (Nate's Song),” the first two tracks from her debut, self-titled EP. Released in June 2012, Ivy's EP is currently on New Canadian Music's Emerging Artists chart in the company of acts including Lights and the Arkells.

Known for her thought-provoking lyrics and strong, unique vocals, Ivy has been involved in the Oakville/GTA music scene for many years, including numerous shows in support of local charities.

"Thunder and Your Escape (Nate's Song) will always be important to me because the writing process helped me through a tough situation and they were the first step towards my EP, which I had been thinking about for a long time," said Ivy James.

"The best songs are always the hardest to write because you have to tap into emotions that you don't necessarily understand yourself. As the writer, the song may mean one thing to me and something completely different to someone else. I think that's why people connect so well with music; you take what you want from it."

TIMA nominees and winners were selected by a Grand Jury panel of industry veterans including multi-platinum selling artist Bif Naked, multi-award winning singer-songwriter Jully Black, Eric Alper, Director of Media Relations and Label Acquisitions for eOne Music, Katie Clark, owner of Underground Operations Records & Management, and EMI Music Publishing executive Barbara Sedun.

Ivy continues to perform live in support of her EP. On Oct. 15, 2012, she took the stage at Toronto's Hard Rock Cafe to compete in the Great Canadian Song Search. Ivy is also playing upcoming shows at the Rockpile in Etobicoke on Nov. 2, 2012, the Animals Beyond Borders fundraiser with Phil Demers at Toronto's Bloor Street United Church on Nov. 3, 2012, and at Hugh's Room with Juno-nominated artist Micah Barnes on Dec. 11, 2012.

Earlier this year, Ivy played the 10th annual JuneFest at Toronto's Mel Lastman Squarefor Deaf-Blind Awareness Month. She also performed at Oakville's YouthFest and KOI Music Festival 2012 in Kitchener, which included bands such as illScarlett, GOB, Silverstein, Abandon All Ships and more.

Ivy's EP is available on iTunes and through HMV Canada.

Source and Images Courtesy: Ivy James - Eyes In Magazine

Oakville singer-songwriter Ivy James won Best Young Songwriter at the Toronto Independent Music Awards (TIMA) on Saturday night. The emerging indie-rock songstress was honoured for Thunder and Your Escape (Nate's Song), the first two tracks from her debut, self-titled EP. Released in June 2012, Ivy's EP is currently on New Canadian Music's Emerging Artists chart in the company of acts including Lights and the Arkells.

"Thunder and Your Escape (Nate's Song) will always be important to me because the writing process helped me through a tough situation and they were the first step towards my EP, which I had been thinking about for a long time," said Ivy James. "The best songs are always the hardest to write because you have to tap into emotions that you don't necessarily understand yourself. As the writer, the song may mean one thing to me and something completely different to someone else. I think that's why people connect so well with music; you take what you want from it."

TIMA nominees and winners were selected by a Grand Jury panel of industry veterans including multi-platinum selling artist Bif Naked, multi-award winning singer-songwriter Jully Black, Eric Alper, Director of Media Relations and Label Acquisitions for eOne Music, Katie Clark, owner of Underground Operations Records & Management, and EMI Music Publishing executive Barbara Sedun.

Ivy continues to perform live in support of her EP. On October 15, 2012, she takes the stage at Toronto's Hard Rock Cafe to compete in the Great Canadian Song Search. Ivy is also playing upcoming shows at the Rockpile in Etobicoke on November 2, 2012, the Animals Beyond Borders fundraiser with Phil Demers at Toronto's Bloor Street United Church on November 3, 2012, and at Hugh's Room with Juno-nominated artist Micah Barnes on December 11, 2012.

Earlier this year, Ivy played the 10th annual JuneFest at Toronto's Mel Lastman Square for Deaf-Blind Awareness Month. She also performed at Oakville's YouthFest and KOI Music Festival 2012 in Kitchener, which included bands such as illScarlett, GOB, Silverstein, Abandon All Ships and more.

Ivy's EP is available on iTunes and through HMV Canada.

Links:
www.ivyjamesmusic.com
www.facebook.com/ivyjamesmusic
www.twitter.com/ivyjames
www.youtube.com/ivyjamesmusic - Canada Newswire

In just a few hours, the Toronto Independent Music Awards will open at the Phoenix Concert Hall in Toronto. The proceeds from the event – which comprises several years' worth of planning and mini-events – go to MusiCounts, a wonderful charity that works to keep music programs alive in schools. This year, the TIMAs are hosting an online auction, which will also support MusiCounts.

The show features performances from Dilly Dally, Rich Kidd, HOTCHA!, River Junction Band, and a bunch more. The ceremony part of the evening, originally masterminded by Daniela Oliva, will crown winners from a slew of categories. We asked the nominees a few questions about what their music, and music in general, means to them.

Take a read below. . . .

And good luck to all nominees!



Best USA
Mercurius FM

Members: Bo
Location: Phoenix, Arizona, and Los Angeles, California
Further Reading: http://MercuriusFM.com

About the nominated track/album:
I actually submitted a mini-mix of my EP, For Those About To Techno. . . . I chose it because I felt it would give the listener a good sampling of my current sounds. It basically takes you on a trip through five of the roughest techno tracks I've ever made. Making the EP took about five months, only working on it part-time. Most of it was finished in the last month. Funny enough, the track '909 In My Spine' was originally going to be a remix for a contest, but I thought the beat was too good to waste on a contest. . . .

What makes good music?
That's a tough question. I think that varies from person to person and also it's application. I'm very critical of new music, so when I get demos and listen to new releases on sites like Beatport, I'm really critical. I'm listening to them and thinking of what kind of mood they'll create in a club. Pretty much if it sounds like something on the Top 10 list in Beatport, I probably would never play that track live. I'm always seeking new and exciting tracks. I feel the same way about non-electronic music. I'm more interested in hearing a genuine emotional vibe or something new and creative rather than amazing production. These days, anyone can find a friend who can produce music or buy a producer. . . but not everyone has great creative ideas.

Future plans:
I'm working on my next EP called, Dead Or Alive. It's going to have two or three new techno tracks with the goal of being rougher than the last EP. You can hear the title track in my latest promo mix on Soundcloud. I will announce the release date of Dead Or Alive soon. I'm also working on bringing new artists to my label Broken Synth. It's like a home for the disregarded and unheard electronic artists. I'm not looking to release people based on their name, simply if I like the music they send me.

Last words:
Well, I'm going to Toronto for the Toronto Independent Music Awards. I was nominated in the USA category which is pretty cool. I'm working on a collaboration with the former drummer of a pretty big electronic band in Europe, but I can't say much about that yet. Other than that, people can expect more and more music out of Mercurius FM.

Jenny Dinh

Location: Lake in the Hills, Illinois
Further Reading: www.jennydmusic.com

About the nominated track/album:
The track I submitted is called 'Manhattan'. The process of writing this song was like the process of most of my other songs; the words and melody just come to my head. It wasn't based off of one exact moment, it's more of a combination of experiences and stories from my friends and movie scenes. I wanted the song to represent a moment in your life that seems so unrealistic that you feel like you're in a movie scene. I chose to submit 'Manhattan' because I was very proud of the outcome of the track and how it portrays the emotion and scenery I was aiming for.

What makes good music?
Good music is something that most of the audience can relate to, and putting your feelings in your music so that the people listening can also feel that emotion. It also comes from the heart; if you really have the passion for music, you will improve to become a better musician and make good music.

Future plans:
I'm hoping to study at Berklee College of Music, and writing songs in my free time. I don't have a definite plan of my future right now, but hopefully studying at a music school will help me decide what I want to do most with my music career.

The Ooo La Las

Members: Yma Ronsi, Emmie Jones
Location: Sacramento, California.
Further Reading: www.sonicbids.com/theooolalas

About the nominated track/album:
The Ooo La Las' sound is fresh and new, but delivered in retro packaging. We are influenced by all forms of music from Pop to Rock, French Vaudeville to Spanish Bolero, from sailor's jigs to Siren's songs. We call it Theatrical Pop and feel there is a certain soundtrack vibe to what we do. Our music is about the seduction of life and the beauty of both its sides – the light and the dark – love, - Raz Mataz Magazine

Oakville’s Ivy James nominated for Best Young Songwriter award,
set to perform at KOI Music Festival - September 14 & 15 2012

Oakville, Ontario – September 12, 2012 – Oakville’s indie-rock sensation Ivy James has been nominated as Best Young Songwriter by the Toronto Independent Music Awards (TIMA). Nominees and winners are selected by an esteemed Grand Jury panel of experienced industry insiders including successful recording artists Bif Naked and Jully Black, as well as industry heavyweights such as Eric Alper, Barbara Sedun and Barry Haugen.

The TIMA nomination for 16 year-old Ivy James comes on the heels of numerous summer performances in support of her self-titled debut EP, but just days before she is set to hit the stage at the KOI Music Festival in Kitchener, Ontario. Ivy will be among the 100+ local and major artists performing at 10 venues on Saturday, September 15, 2012, following a free outdoor concert to kick off the weekend on Friday evening. Other artists featured at KOI this year include successful touring acts Silverstein, GOB, illScarlett and Abandon All Ships. KOI is one of Ontario’s premiere independent music festivals and is expected to attract more than 5,000 attendees in 2012.

Earlier this year, Ivy headlined the 10th annual JuneFest in Toronto’s Mel Lastman Square for Deaf-Blind Awareness Month. She was also a featured performer at Oakville’s YouthFest in June and plays regularly in Kensington Market and other venues in the Greater Toronto Area.

Known for her thought-provoking lyrics and strong, unique vocals, Ivy has been involved in the Oakville music scene for many years, including numerous shows in support of local charities. Vocalist, composer, recording artist and music coach Micah Barnes has said of her: "Ivy is one of those 'think for yourself' artists that comes along every once in a while and gets to play by their own rules. It's Ivy's world, we're just renting space in it."

Her debut self-titled album, including six original songs written by Ivy, was released in June 2012. It is available on iTunes and through HMV Canada.

You can connect with Ivy James on Facebook, follow her on Twitter @ivyjames and view videos on her YouTube channel.

Photo credits:
• Trent Sluiter, Fedora Media
•: Lil'Red Photography - Arts & Culture Maven

Oakville singer-songwriter Ivy James has been nominated for a Best Young Songwriter award at this year’s Toronto Independent Music Awards.
The awards will be handed out at Toronto’s Phoenix Concert Theatre on Sunday, Oct. 6.

The nomination follows a series of summer performances by James in support of her self-titled debut EP.

Most recently, the 16-year-old was among more than 100 artists performing at 10 venues at this year’s KOI Music Festival in Kitchener, Ont., which took place two weeks ago. KOI is one of Ontario’s premiere independent music festivals, and this year included performances by such big name acts as Silverstein, GOB and illScarlet.

The indie-rocker’s debut album features six original songs. It was released in June and is available on iTunes.

For more information about the musician, visit www.ivyjamesmusic.com.

For more information on the awards, visit www.torontoima.com. - Inside Halton / Oakville Beaver

Sure there are places where musicians can go out and play, audiences can sit down and listen and everyone can have a good time.

However, many of those places are restricted to people aged 19 or older.

But, Ryan Switzer of Massive Tank Studios needed a place for his musicians to play, many of whom are teenagers and are not permitted inside bars.

So, he partnered with local charity group Community Youth in Action Network (CYAN), which is dedicated to increasing volunteer and community-participation opportunities for young people.

The result of the partnership was the formation of open mic musical events for youths.

“This is giving young performers an audience to air out some of their material and to see how it works on crowds,” Switzer said.

The first two events took place at e-Spot in Oakville. Two more are scheduled for Aug. 8 and Aug. 22.

Ivy James, a 16-year-old singer Switzer produces hosts the evening events. Youths are able to come up and perform their own musical repertoire, whether it’s a song or an album. James emcees in between the acts and helps get the party started.

“Ivy is the dead-air killer. The single worst thing you can have at an event like this is a silent room,” Switzer said.

Switzer is not new to showcasing young talent. He works with many youths at his studio and puts on regular showcases. This event, however, is open to everybody. E-Spot is also located along an Oakville Transit bus line, specifically chosen so that all youths could get to it.

Aside from James, Switzer has invited other young musicians he works with so that there should never be a break in the music.

There are several reasons for putting on the event. For one, it helps promote music and Switzer’s business as well as CYAN. It keeps youths out of trouble. And, it gives young musicians experience performing in front of a crowd.

“For a lot of these people that I produce, when you don’t want them to be figuring out their stage legs is when they’re sitting in front of an A&R rep or somewhere where you got them doing an industry showcase,” he said.

“Really, by the time they’re doing an industry showcase, they should probably be on their 400th performance so that there is absolutely nothing that can go sideways.”

Entry to the event is free. A portion of proceeds from merchandise and snack sales will go to CYAN.

The shows consist of musicians of varying musical skill levels, with performers who are familiar to the stage and those who are quite fresh to music.

Switzer hopes that by watching other youths perform, young spectators might become interested in music themselves.

Promotion for the events is mostly word of mouth and Switzer expects the crowds to grow larger as the summer progresses.

E-Spot is located at 200 Iroquois Shore Rd. The event starts at 7 p.m
- Inside Halton / Oakville Beaver

Ivy James (www.facebook.com/ivyjamesmusic) is an award-winning independent acoustic, pop-rock singer/songwriter that is known for her thought-provoking lyrics and strong, unique vocals. On June 13th 2012 James headlined the 10th annual JuneFest (http://www.junefest.ca) at Toronto’s Mel Lastman Square. The 16-year-old performed two sets at the festival that was being held for Deaf-Blind Awareness Month. “I’m really excited. I’ve known about the festival for a couple years. I always said I want to play JuneFest. So finally, three or four years later I’m getting to. That’s pretty cool.” Don’t let her age fool you. James has been a performer since the age of five entertaining any relative of hers who would listen.

Her upcoming gigs include KOI MUSIC FEST in Kitchener, Ontario in September 2012 and the artist also plays regular shows at Aspetta Caffe in Toronto’s Kensington Market. This wonderful young lady also hosts YouthFest, an open mic held at e-Spot in Oakville. This August, Ivy will also be performing a private show at a girl’s rock camp that brings in professional musicians from the Greater Toronto Area to perform.

If you are unfamiliar with James’ music here are some things you can expect to hear from this multi-talented artist. According to James the songs that she writes are “… about things happening around me and my personal experiences,” and, “a lot of songs are about getting through things and doing the best you can and not letting anybody stop you.” James credit’s her biggest influences: Canadian musicians Josh Ramsay (Marianas Trench) and Avril Lavigne. “This is the kind of music I’ve been listening to since I was really young. Avril Lavigne was the first singer-songwriter I got into,” she said.

James’ debut, self-titled EP contains six original songs and was released on June 27th, 2012. James was responsible for writing all of the music on the album which was produced by Ryan Switzer of Massive Tank Studios (Oakville). The EP is available on iTunes, HMV (Canada), Amazon.ca, and on James’ web site (www.ivyjamesmusic.com).

When we first listened to her music we initially thought of the American band He is We when the chorus of “Thunder” begins. We also thought of the singer Michelle Branch who in her early days was known for her pop rock songs accompanied by her acoustic guitar. James’ songs are very mature and have such emotion in them that we did not believe the artist was only 16-years-old the first time we heard her music. The lyrics that were written by James herself are raw and leave the singer vulnerable. After reading, doing some research on the artist and giving the songs another listen, it made sense as to why she would state fellow Canadian musicians Avril Lavigne and Josh Ramsay (vulnerable deep lyrics, dealing with life and moving on from life’s hardships) as her influences. When listening to the song’ “Your Escape (Nate’s Song)” the acoustic guitar and James’ tone at different times in the song reminded us of Avril Lavigne. In this song we were also reminded of the singer Skye Sweetman. So what did James really remind us of? Something that all of the artists mentioned above have in common. Songs written by strong independent musicians with feisty attitudes and sweet melodies. “Ivy James' debut EP is comprised of six incredibly emotional tunes, adorned only with a single acoustic guitar. Hear her lay everything bare on “Thunder” and “Your Escape (Nate’s Song)”. Now available for purchase on bandcamp and iTunes. Watch her cover of Marianas Trench’s “Fallout” on her YouTube channel and follow Ivy on Twitter” — Noah Siegel, New Canadian Music

The teen continues to take music lessons and is currently receiving vocal instruction from voice coach Micah Barnes who praises his young student:

“She is the smartest kind of artist you’re ever going to find. She’s got the kind of smarts that are so beyond her years that people in the industry already recognize that she’s got a potentially important career ahead of her.”

“One of the things that marks her apart from the crowd is that she’s got no one else out there who does what she does. She’s really unique and her identity is very much her own.” – *Micah Barnes, Micah Barnes, vocalist (solo artist/former member of The Nylons), composer, recording artist and vocal coach.

James plans to have an official CD release party later this summer.

Visit Ivy James at the following links to listen to her music and to discover more about this outstanding talented young Canadian:

www.reverbnation.com/ivyjames
www.twitter.com/ivyjames
www.facebook.com/ivyjamesmusic
www.ivyjamesmusic.com
www.ivyjames.bandcamp.com
www.youtube.com/ivyjamesmusic
http://itunes.apple.com/ca/album/ivy-james-ep/id535813436 - E-vent Thrill

Oakville teenager Ivy James hopes to make a splash on the music scene at Toronto’s JuneFest, something she’s been aspiring to for some time.

The 16-year-old White Oaks Secondary School student will perform two sets at the June 13 festival being held at Mel Lastman Square held for Deaf-Blind Awareness Month.

“I’m really excited. I’ve known about the festival for a couple years. I always said I want to play JuneFest. So finally, three or four years later I’m getting to. That’s pretty cool,” said the acoustic, pop-rock singer/songwriter.

James is also releasing her self-titled, six-track album this month, which will be available at JuneFest.

“I write songs about things happening around me and my personal experiences,” said James.

“A lot of songs are about getting through things and doing the best you can and not letting anybody stop you.”

The teen wrote all the music on the CD, which was produced by Ryan Switzer at Oakville’s Massive Tank Studios.

James’ credit her biggest influences as Canadian musicians Josh Ramsay of Marianas Trench and Avril Lavigne, however the entertainer said she has her own distinct style.

“This is the kind of music I’ve been listening to since I was really young. Avril Lavigne was the first singer-songwriter I got into,” she said.

James has been performing since she was five and entertaining any relative of hers who would listen.

As a child, James took lessons in various instruments and singing and plays a total of seven instruments, including: guitar, bass, double bass, ukulele, keyboard/piano, drums and trombone.

One would imagine she caught the music bug at home through family, but that’s not the case.

“I’m the only person in my family who has this music gene. We haven’t been able to find anybody else with it,” she said.

James became serious about music about three years ago when she played bass for a band that since folded.

The teen continued taking music lessons and is currently receiving vocal instruction from voice coach Micah Barnes who praises his young student.

“She is the smartest kind of artist you’re ever going to find. She’s got the kind of smarts that are so beyond her years that people in the industry already recognize that she’s got a potentially important career ahead of her,” he said.

“One of the things that marks her apart from the crowd is that she’s got no one else out there who does what she does. She’s really unique and her identity is very much her own.”

Barnes also praised the singer’s indie-pop sensibility, saying she has a combination of vulnerability and toughness that is appealing and provides a good role model.

James plans to have an official CD release party later this summer. - Inside Halton / Oakville Beaver

Ivy James debut self-titled EP is comprised of six incredibly emotional tunes, adorned only with a single acoustic guitar. Hear her lay everything bare on “Thunder” and “Your Escape (Nate’s Song)”. Now available for purchase on bandcamp and iTunes.

Watch her cover of Marianas Trench’s “Fallout” on her YouTube channel and follow Ivy on Twitter

— Noah Siegel - New Canadian Music

Ivy James was wearing a rainbow coloured hat embellished with teddy bears when she stepped onto the stage for her debut performance with her first band, Pass the Ketchup. The Oakville, Ontario pub was packed with 60 strangers, with few familiar faces in sight. While she was singing and playing her red and black Pete Wentz Squier bass guitar — a Christmas gift from her parents — her eyes never strayed away from the crowd. At times, James was so nervous she backed away from her microphone until she was almost bumping into the drummer behind her.

As nerve-wracking as that performance had been, the 12-year-old felt a rush when she took the stage. Now 16, James is a solo artist who has created her own distinct indie-rock-pop sound by blending acoustic guitar infused with strong alto-soprano lyrics. She’s no longer a stranger to performing, having played over 50 shows in numerous coffeehouses, at open mic nights and festivals. Large crowds no longer faze her.

“I’ve made music my whole life. Everything I’m doing is leading up to a career in the industry,” James says, joking that her resume is filled entirely with music-related jobs she’s had — working at concert venues, selling merchandise and helping out at Massive Tank, her recording studio. On top of headlining at JuneFest in Toronto for Deaf-Blind Awareness Month, hosting open mic nights in her hometown of Oakville, performing a couple of times a month at Aspetta Caffe in Toronto’s Kensington Market, and securing an upcoming gig at the 2012 KOI Music Fest in Kitchener, she recently released a self-titled extended-play album (EP) and has another one in the works. Her ultimate goal? Becoming a premiere singer and songwriter in the Canadian music scene.

Even so, the young musician recognizes she still has her work cut out for her if she wants a fighting chance at making it in Canada’s music business. “Our music scene is harder to break into than the American one because it’s smaller and there are fewer opportunities. I believe it’s going to become harder before it gets easier,” says James.

TOUGH TO CRACK

Competition is fierce for young artists looking to find their big break before they hit their early twenties, hoping to take their place alongside Canadian musical sensations like Justin Bieber and Carly Rae Jepsen. Micah Barnes, a top vocal and performance coach who has instructed James over the past year through Singers Playground, says there are many young artists who think posting a few covers to YouTube will make them famous overnight.

Think again, he says. “For the one or two young artists who make it a year on YouTube, millions of others are left in the dark.”

The same goes for TV reality shows. Barnes says shows like American Idol paint a false, idealistic picture that young artists can instantly become mega stars overnight, without depicting the years of hard work it takes to get there. Following Carly Rae Jepsen’s 2007 stint on Canadian Idol (which is no longer in production), James watched Jepsen perform in front of small crowds with a sound much more folksy than her iconic pop single, Call Me Maybe.

Most young musicians have the necessary ambition it takes to jumpstart their musical careers, but they often lack the ability to perform in front of a crowd, says Barnes. He adds that their egos often get in the way when they refuse to refine their natural talents. This is why, as a top go-to guy for managers, labels, producers and directors in the Canadian and U.S. recording, film and television industries, he helps young performers hone their vocals early on by identifying their strengths and weaknesses.

FINDING HER CALLING

Ryan Switzer believes an early start is key in this industry. The owner of Massive Tank Studios and James’ music producer emphasizes that, “Sitting around playing X-Box isn’t going to help you.”

“For young musicians, the industry has to be taken seriously. Music has to be considered a job,” Switzer says, adding he understands young people find it difficult to commit to a career so early on.

James has had no problem committing to a career in music. In fact, singing and songwriting is something she seems destined to do. At the age of three, James would stack phone books to create her own makeshift stage and belt out Alanis Morrisette tunes. At age four, she walked in to a relative’s recording studio. When he turned on the microphone, James wrote two songs on the spot and recorded them in one take. She had clearly found her calling.

Watching Canadian vocalist Avril Lavigne make a splash on TV in her breakthrough music video Complicated when she was barely 18 years old cemented James’ music bug. Lavigne’s youth made her a perfect musical role model, inspiring James to adopt her look at times, including signature tie, chains and black and white stripped armbands.

Hoping to make music her entire life one day just like Lavigne, James stepped up her game. She began taking vocal lessons, enrolled i - Zara McAlister