Talking from a tour break in Vancouver, Jaydee Bixby was unaware that he had been nominated for the Canadian Country Music Association Rising Star award.
Bixyby’s sophomore album Easy To Love was released May 25 of this year, gaining him eligibility for the award.
“It’s great,” says Bixby, 19, “this is my third time attending so I’m hoping the third time’s the charm!”
Finishing off a western Canada tour early this August, Bixby has had a heavy schedule since he rocked onto Canadian country airwaves after finishing runner-up in 2007’s Canadian Idol competition. The show is currently on hiatus.
“The more connections you start making the more doors you open,” he said about the success of his touring over the last couple years.
Bixby says he may be opening for country star Allan Jackson in Montreal.
He says the biggest support of his success is the country fans.
“When I went on the show, I sang what I knew- the songs I grew up to. No matter who you are everyone has a little bit of country in them. For me, country fans are the best kind of fans.”
“You can’t ask for more than that- no pun intended,” the Drumheller native laughs in reference to the song of the same name on his new album.
When asked about the competition for this award, Bixby says he has yet to check out the competition but believes whoever was nominated deserves the Rising Star award as much as him.
“While touring everyone asks me when I’m going to Nashville, when will I record there. But Canada alone, the talent is so abundant- anyone up for the award must deserve it. I’ll just hang on tight and hope for a positive outcome.”
“Either way, a Canadian will win it and that’s all that matters.”
The winners will be announced at Rexall Place in Edmonton, on Sunday, September 12.
Bixby says he’s looking forward to stopping in Drumheller soon. The last show he played here was in January of this year at the Stampede Grounds.
“To everyone in Drumheller, I say, ‘stay classy’.”
