Boots and Hearts is proudly presenting ‘Heart of the Holidays’, taking place tonight, December 5, 2024, at the Kitchener Memorial Auditorium.
“Enjoy a night of incredible performances from country’s top artists — James Barker Band, Tyler Joe Miller, Andrew Hyatt, Shawn Austin, Zach McPhee and The Western Swing Authority — as they play their biggest hits,” organizers say.
“Enjoy on-site vendors, fan experiences, and more surprises for a memorable night of country music.”
Purchase tickets to the show, here.
Many of the artists on the bill are no strangers to SWOMP:
James Barker Band
A chart-topping Canadian country band known for their energetic performances and hits like “Keep It Simple” and “Over All Over Again.” They’ve won multiple awards, including Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) honors, and are celebrated for their fun, upbeat style.
SWOMP chatted with James Barker ahead of their June 1, 2023 performance at the Chatham Capitol Theatre:
Tyler Joe Miller
A rising star in Canadian country music, Tyler Joe Miller broke onto the scene with his debut single “Pillow Talkin’” hitting #1 on the charts. Known for his heartfelt lyrics and authentic sound, he’s quickly becoming a fan favorite in the genre.
Whitney South was at Cowboys Ranch in London back in April when Miller came through town with Andrew Hyatt and Shawn Austin.
Coverage, here.
Andrew Hyatt
With his gritty, soulful voice, Andrew Hyatt has made a name for himself with hits like “On Me” and “Do It With You.” His raw storytelling and country-rock edge have earned him a loyal fanbase and industry recognition. On top of Whitney’s coverage of Hyatt back in April, SWOMP also caught up with Hyatt for an interview in July of 2023:
Shawn Austin
Known for his smooth vocals and modern country sound, Shawn Austin gained popularity with singles like “What Do I Know” and “Tailgate to Heaven.” He’s been nominated for several CCMA awards and is praised for his blend of traditional and contemporary country influences.
Zach McPhee
Country music singer-songwriter Zach McPhee hails from the picturesque Okanagan Valley in British Columbia. Since his debut in January 2023, Zach has quickly made a name for himself in the country music scene. As a child, he attended speech therapy, where singing was introduced as a technique to aid his progress—a method that would eventually become his passion.
This year, Zach has been recognized as a finalist in the prestigious nationwide SiriusXM Top of the Country Competition. His rapid rise is further evidenced by his appearances on the cover of Apple Music’s Canada’s Country playlist three times and Amazon Music’s Breakthrough Country Playlist. With over 9 million streams to his name, Zach’s music resonates with a growing audience.
Zach’s debut EP, “Feels Country to Me,” showcases his talent for storytelling and songwriting through seven captivating songs. A Deluxe EP featuring 2 brand new tracks and his breakthrough single ‘Who Knew’ will be released on August 16th. His momentum continues as he is set to perform at high-profile events such as the Lasso Music Festival in Montréal, CMA Fest in Nashville, and Kelowna’s Denim on the Diamond Festival this summer.
The Western Swing Authority
The Western Swing Authority is a powerhouse ensemble known for their vibrant fusion of western swing and traditional country. Based in Ontario, Canada, this dynamic group has carved a niche with their infectious energy and exceptional musicianship. Led by Shane Guse and Stacey Lee, The Western Swing Authority delivers a toe-tapping blend of fiddles, steel guitar, and smooth harmonies that transport listeners to the heart of classic country music, earning them acclaim both locally and internationally.
SWOMP interview Shane and Stacey back in February this year: