My Top-40 Covers Artist Credentials
I've been playing Top-40 covers music in bars since 2012, but my music career started long before, beginning in 1995 with the release of my first EP (of my own songs). In 2007, I started hosting Open Mic nights in Ottawa, which I continued through 2016 culminating in the monthly Rogers TV show (which I co-hosted), "Live On Elgin: Open Mic". I also hosted my own highly successful Battle of the Bands series (at the Lunenburg Pub, Zaphod's Beeblebrox, and Live on Elgin) from 2012-17.
I've played Bluesfest twice, and also Junofest and the Ottawa Jazzfest.
Ottawa bars I've played Top-40 covers gigs at include; the Heart & Crown chain, the Barley Mow chain, Highlander Pub, various Royal Oaks, Patty Boland's, Pour House, Sens House, Backdrop, Hooch Bourbon, and many more. On the corporate side, I've played multiple Harley Davidson dealerships in Ottawa-Gatineau. I've also played the Larrimac Golf Club (Chelsea, PQ), plus Stornoway (official residence of the Leader of the Opposition).
Ottawa (& area) clubs I've played my original music at include; Zaphod Beeblebrox, Atomic Rooster, Irene's Pub, The Black Sheep Inn, Kaffe 1870, Live On Elgin, The Rainbow, Mavericks, The Chateau Lafayette, and many more.
One of the most important jobs of a Top-40 covers performer is to read the room – this is a skill I possess. If people want background music, I give them background music; if they want to rock, I'm ready to rock. And shows can be familly-friendly or raucous, as dictated by the client/setting.
A sampling of my setlist below, which I describe as "everything from the '50s to last summer!" I specialize in playing a large percentage of titles by female artists, as well as the latest tunes currently on the charts...
I also have an Irish-themed/St. Patty's Day setlist always at the ready.
Top-40 covers acts I've played in include; Brown Paper Bag, Sven @ Würk, Reverse Time Travel, F 'n A, and JackAsh.