Home Blog Page 22

Toronto Artist Elisa Rose Highlights Autism with ‘You’re My Everything’ & Sept. 12 Benefit Concert

There have been great strides in autism awareness in recent years. But more still needs to be done to ensure there’s support for those on the spectrum as well as their family and friends. For Toronto classical crossover singer Elisa Rose, autism has impacted her family as her son has the condition. Now Rose has taken inspiration from her beloved child with her latest single “You’re My Everything,” a sweet, affecting track that could bring a smile and a tear to one’s eye simultaneously.

Soprano vocalist Rose will perform alongside Songsbury and Elvis tribute artist Bruno Nesci at a benefit concert for Surrey Place on Sept. 12 at The Venetian Banquet Hall in Concord, Ontario; Tickets are $85 and include an open bar and l’antipasto bar. Tickets available here.

The singer says the song’s seed was planted when she covered the song “I Won’t Let You Down” in 2019 for an American Autism organization. “I wanted to celebrate autism awareness here in Canada with a special song,” Rose says. “I composed ‘You’re My Everything’ with singer/songwriter Matt Zaddy dedicated to my son who is on the autism spectrum.”

“You’re My Everything” strikes a deep chord on each listen as Rose’s clear and almost ethereal delivery glides over the gentle, almost magical, cinematic arrangement. The song, produced by Charles Di Raimondo, addresses all the hopes and dreams Rose has for her son alongside the worries and challenges that could await him. In the end, Rose’s performance is spectacular and honest, recalling a singer like the angelic Sarah Brightman working with David Foster.

I love to hear you sing so strong you talk about the things you love
Making me so very proud you’re my everything
Through all the hardships we rose above with open arms and lots of love
Proud to be your mama you’re my everything

Rose says she had a tough time initially finding an appropriate title for the song but eventually it came to the surface. “I remember not having a title for the song, but as Matt and I were working on it, we kept stumbling on ‘you’re my everything’ that I had repeated,” she says. “So, we agreed that would be the title. When working on the song’s final mix before recording it in the studio, Matt and I were nearly in tears at how beautiful the lyrics were.”

Rose, a soprano vocalist who has released classical, pop and crossover music for two decades, will sing at a benefit concert Sept. 12 at The Venetian Banquet Hall in Concord, Ontario. Part of the ticket sale proceeds go to Surrey Place, a Toronto non-profit organization which helps people of all ages with developmental disabilities, special needs and autism. Rose will perform on a bill with Songsbury and Elvis tribute artist Bruno Nesci. Tickets, $85, include an open bar and l’antipasto bar. The concert, which begins at 7 p.m., will be hosted by Giuseppe the MC.

Rose says “You’re My Everything” deals with the roller coaster of emotions families coping with autism have. “Living with autism and being an autism parent is different and unique,” she says. “With a lot of support and love they can, to quote my song, ‘fly and spread their wings, conquer the world, and take in all the beautiful things.'” In short, Elisa Rose has put everything into this moving, honest and emotional single.

Seeing Is Believing: Blues Rocker Scott Albert Johnson Holds Tomorrow Up To The Light On “Invisible”

You can treat the future as a daunting mystery to shrink from, or as a challenge to run toward with arms outstretched. Singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Scott Albert Johnson opts for the latter on his current single, “Invisible,” a moving exhortation to jettison one’s fear of the unknown and bravely shoulder on through uncertain times, and now on over 60 radio stations across North America.

In a compelling, worldly voice that pinpoints his hopefulness as anything but youthful naïveté, Johnson lets us know he’s standing on the cusp of … well, something … and has made up his mind to find out what’s on the other side.

[I’m] staring at the invisible
I’m going to find a way to see
I’m looking straight ahead into the eyes
Of who I’m going to be

“With ‘Invisible’, I wanted to create a song that captured the nervous sense of foreboding that seems to be enveloping all of us right now,” Johnson says. “Between the rise of AI and similarly advanced technologies, climate change, and a seemingly intractable sense of ‘us against them’ in our own backyard, it’s easy to feel hopeless. In spite of the heavy subject, however, the song is ultimately about optimism emerging from darkness.”

Taken purely as music, the track is sweet vindication of the St. Louis-born, Jackson, MS-raised Johnson’s diverse background and tastes. Its sonic palate confirms his trajectory as a Dylanesque, socially and spiritually conscious balladeer, but also nods to a host of other influences that includes Peter Gabriel, Radiohead, U2, the Police, Daniel Lanois, Pink Floyd, Stevie Wonder, Prince, Miles Davis and Bruce Hornsby.

Plus, the recording itself is a tour de force for Johnson: He played all the instruments except the drums (which were performed by his longtime collaborator, Kenny Graeber) and sang every vocal line save a backing part by his son, Charlie Johnson. There are also some highly satisfying blasts from the elder Johnson on his trademark instrument, the harmonica—his proficiency at which has made him the toast of music connoisseurs far and wide.

“Scott Albert Johnson manhandles his harmonica with a master’s flair,” Goldmine has raved. “He is a triple-threat artist who can sing, write and blow his emotions clear on out of his harmonica like nobody’s business.”

The musical and lyrical pull of “Invisible” takes on an added dimension in its haunting music video, which shows Johnson in both his full, corporeal form and as a stylized, sketch-like animation. The loose and highly symbolic narrative finds the artist standing at the edge of an ocean, initially hesitant to enter but ultimately immersing himself in the water, baptized and ready for whatever lies ahead.

The entire project was borne of the pandemic, a pressurized situation that inspired Johnson to hone his skills at playing various instruments and learn how to record himself properly at home. The result pushes him even farther into the uncharted territory he began to explore on his previous single, “Float,” which ended up getting airplay on more than 75 stations throughout the U.S. and being named “Pick of the Week” by Ann Delisi at WDET in Detroit. “Invisible” shows all the signs of connecting on an even deeper level, as it likewise mines the emotional unease we’ve all felt over the last few years. To Johnson, both songs are equally cathartic from a personal standpoint, since they were worked up at a time when he was facing a serious health scare.

“A few times, it looked like it could be life-threatening,” he reveals. “Fortunately, that has turned out not to be the case. But it’s been life-changing in terms of just getting through the day, although things have improved since I wrote these songs.”

Then again, pretty much Johnson’s entire life has been a case study in taking leaps of faith. He’s lived not only in St. Louis and Jackson, but in Canada, Washington, D.C., and Boston as well. And he’s done everything from study at Harvard to work in the Office of Management and Budget in D.C. to provide full-time counseling to students at his old high school. Although his musical career didn’t truly begin in earnest until he finally decided to master the harmonica in his late 20s, the payoff has been rich indeed: He’s been featured as a guest artist with the Boston Pops, won a performing-arts fellowship from the Mississippi Arts Commission and been named one of the “Hot 100” harp players worldwide by The Harmonica Company in the U.K.

So who better to preach the virtues of taking a chance and staring the world’s potentially confounding future square in the eye?

“I kind of say, ‘Bring it on,’” Johnson says. “I’m not making light of it; I think there may be some dark times ahead. But I am sort of a short-range pessimist and a long-range optimist. I think we’ll make it, eventually.”

New Age Artist Huguette Lavigne Returns With Latest Soothing Instrumental “Spinners (La Toupie)”

Depending on your view, life can resemble a box of chocolates or a bowl of cherries. But life can also sometimes resemble a spinning top. Sometimes it’s smooth and balanced. Other times it’s remaining upright despite the occasional wobble and seemingly out of one’s control. Regardless, it does end at some point. For Ottawa-based New Age artist Huguette Lavigne, such complexities of humanity are found in her contemplative new single “Spinners (La Toupie).” It’s a song Lavigne approached with no preconceived notion.

“This piece, ‘Spinners (La Toupie),’ began without a vision or theme,” Lavigne says. “Initially, I approached it with a sense of exploration, letting the process guide me. As I worked, the image of a spinning top gradually came to mind—starting with vigorous motion, whirling with energy, only to halt abruptly in the end. This visual became a metaphor for the human condition.”

“Spinners (La Toupie)” is a gorgeous, reflective piano instrumental that starts as a soothing, almost hypnotic melody with its various ebbs and flows. Dramatic without being over-the-top, the song exemplifies the course of one’s life, rising at times in intensity before delicately concluding after 155 precious, cherished seconds.

“Reflecting on the perpetual motion present in our lives and the universe, I found the underlying theme for this piece,” Lavigne says. “The spinning, as reflected in many of our activities, became a symbol of our journey through life. This contemplation on movement and stillness, activity and cessation, shaped the essence of ‘Spinners (La Toupie).'”

Lavigne, whose music veers through genres such as new age, contemporary classical and modern jazz, released a video for “Spinners (La Toupie)” in July featuring images of objects (and people) in motion. Such imagery includes a spinning top, amusement rides, celestial bodies, girls holding hands while spinning, and ballerinas.”

“Like the spinning top, we go through our lives with a certain rhythm, propelled by the forces around us,” Lavigne says. “Our planet spins on its axis, orbiting the sun, creating a cosmic dance that mirrors our daily routines. We engage in love, work, creation, and play, each action adding to the momentum of our existence. Yet, despite this dynamic activity, there comes a moment when everything ceases. Much like the spinner, our hearts eventually come to an unexpected and sudden stop.”

Lavigne, who along with her siblings would use their creativity to construct “imaginary worlds with astonishing detail” as children in their parents’ “unfinished basement” as she wrote in a 2022 article entitled “Bliss, Ecstasy, and Pure Joy of Making Stuff.” Her creative work includes more than 50 original piano compositions, some of which have complemented stunning visuals for a multi-sensory experience.

“Spinners (La Toupie)” follows previous 2023 singles “As It Goes” and “Pixie Dust.” In 2022 Lavigne released Jazzed Up Dreams, an album Lavigne said “began with five jazz pieces with riffs and melodies that developed out of improvisation.” Describing her sound at the time as “eclectic,” her music has been featured in Canadian Beats Media, Tinnitist and Record World International among others. Previous albums also include 2021’s Yin and Yang and Free and Easy and 2020’s Five O’Clock Somewhere. These four albums were all recorded at Ottawa’s Raven Street Studios.

Now with her calming, pensive “Spinners (La Toupie)” look for Huguette Lavigne to continue to push the creative envelope for engaging, eclectic and excellent compositions. It’s a song that you should definitely put in your musical rotation.

The Kings Still Reign: Canadian Rock Legends Defy ‘One-Hit Wonder’ Label as ‘Nowhere to Go But Gone’ Climbs U.S. Charts

Forty-four years ago, they declared The Kings Are Here. Now Canada’s cherished rock legends are specifying exactly where “here” is: on the charts and rising.

This week, The Kings’ ridiculously compelling “Nowhere to Go But Gone” climbs to #42 on the Mediabase CHR Activator list—a nigh-on-miraculous showing for a Canadian classic-rock band on US radio. It’s a designation that shows the tune continues to spread like wildfire, receiving airplay in markets from Utah to Florida to Cape Cod. If this keeps up, the group might have to issue an official clarification that the title of their documentary, Anatomy of a One-Hit Wonder, was meant with tongue planted firmly in cheek.

Because really, The Kings never went away. Yes, they’re still best known for their breakout double A-sided single, “This Beat Goes On/Switchin’ to Glide,” which peaked at #43 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1980 and ultimately spent 23 weeks on that chart—not to mention earning the band a gold single award, a JUNO nomination and induction into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame. The success of the insanely catchy numbers also eventually drove their debut album, the aforementioned The Kings Are Here, to platinum-level sales in Canada. But in the ensuing decades, they’ve put out an absolute wealth of stellar material, on albums like Amazon Beach, RSVP, Unstoppable, Party Live in ’85, The Lost Tapes of a Seventies Bar Band and Because of You. Unstoppable alone yielded a cornucopia of Canadian hits, including the title track, “Lesson To Learn,” “Shoulda Been Me,” “Parting Of The Ways,” and the killer ballad “If We Don’t Belong Together.”

“Nowhere to Go But Gone” proves that their mettle as hitmakers remains undiminished. It’s an appropriately driving little ditty in which lead singer/bassist David Diamond namechecks all the places he’s about to hit on a much-needed jaunt behind the wheel:

Gonna head out on the highway
The highway is my friend
Gonna head out west
Where the highway ends
Then I’ll stop in Vancouver
Turn south towards LA
Twelve hundred miles of surfers
Waiting for a wave
There is no trip like a road trip
Nowhere to go, nowhere to go
Nowhere to go but gone

But what gradually comes into focus is that he’s actually singing about taking a breather from a relationship, to get a better perspective on why it’s one worth keeping. This is a song not of freedom and the endless open road, but of renewal and the journey home.

Oh, but when I return
The bridges I burned
Have been reassembled
Good to take a breather
Good to get some air
Good to be reminded
Of what it’s like out there

As recorded, the entire performance is a tour de force of moxie by Diamond, guitarist/co-composer Mister Zero, keyboardist Sonny Keyes (all three of them cofounders of the group) and drummer Todd Reynolds (who’s been firmly entrenched in the lineup since 2007). The track was co-produced by the band and recording engineer Chris Snow (a veteran of sessions with the likes of Barenaked Ladies, Big Wreck and Arkells) and mixed by Garth Richardson (who has produced Rage Against the Machine and engineered records by the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Nickelback and numerous other heavy hitters).

The song comes from The Kings’ most recent album, 2023’s The Longest Story Ever Told, which kept the faith with the group’s hardcore following while earning widespread critical acclaim. “Call it a comeback if you will, but regardless, it’s clear The Kings still rule,” raved American Songwriter.

With more than 2,000 live shows under their belt, these boys are perpetually in demand as a concert act throughout the Western hemisphere. The latest jewel in their crown was an August gig at the Kitchener Blues Festival Canada, and come November 8, they’ll be “gettin’ gone” all the way down to Planet Hollywood Cancun for the five-day The Sands festival, where they’ll appear alongside fellow ’80s survivors Rick Springfield, Bret Michaels, The Fixx, Level 42, Lou Gramm and Ace Frehley.

And believe it or not, they’re even bigger virtually: The official video for “This Beat Goes On/Switchin’ to Glide” has surpassed 6 million views on YouTube. In a further test of the hit’s enduring appeal, Chicago DJ Bob Stroud included it in his audience poll of the greatest one-two punches in music history—songs no listener or programmer would ever dare separate. The Kings landed at #1 on that list, above ubiquitous musical conjoined twins like “Living Loving Maid/Heartbreaker” by Led Zeppelin and even “We Will Rock You/We Are the Champions by Queen.

Now, with “Nowhere to Go But Gone,” The Kings are back to prove there’s plenty more gas in their tank. More than four decades later, we’re all still “holding hands as David Diamond sings” (as they once sang on their haunting “Love Store”). To say this beat goes on is an understatement: Once the world switches to glide, apparently, it just never switches back.

Singer-Songwriter John Dawson Finds Himself Right At Home With Uplifting “Where You Belong”

Newmarket-based folk roots performer John Dawson puts his heart on his sleeve with his latest single “Where You Belong” from his Outlier album. The tune, produced and mixed by Adam Brunner, speaks to the universality of times a relationship might be in peril. But, by sticking things out together, it’ll be water under the bridge or in the rear-view mirror as time marches forward.

Dawson, who describes “Where You Belong” as a “scrappy little love song,” offers a lovely piece of music and lyrical prose by believing the proverbial glass is half full, not half empty. With gorgeous harmonies, sweet piano accents in the background and the solid rhythm duo of bassist Manny DeGrandis and drummer/percussionist Anthony D’Angela, “Where You Belong” exemplifies the quality and depth Dawson brings to each song with an economical use of words that brings to mind lyrical craftsmen like Ron Sexsmith, Lyle Lovett and Nick Lowe.

Tell me I’m wrong,
But if we just wallk away,
We’ll be giving in to all they have said.
You decide,
But I believe,
That by my side,
Is where you belong.

“Where You Belong” is the latest single from Dawson who released “Things That I Meant To Say” in July, 2024. In an August, 2024 interview with Newmarket Today, Dawson said the songs emerged from a handful of touchstone events in his life including the death of a parent, getting married and the birth of a child. “Much of the music was coming just working through a lot of emotions myself,” he told the outlet. “Just sort of reporting what I’m seeing in my life through the music I create.”

Dawson says there’s also an appreciation for his craft now that he has become a bit more removed from his teenage years and twenties. “The joy to be able to know that my hands can do these things,” he told the outlet. “It changes as you get a bit older. You don’t go out to be a rock star. You do it because of the genuine love of the art form.”

Dawson is no stranger to music, having worked in a myriad of parts of the industry from performing to education. A graduate of Humber College, Dawson cites Eric Clapton, Mark Knopfler, Paul Simon and the late George Harrison as some of his music and lyrical influences. He also earned degrees in Music and Education from York University. And if that wasn’t enough, besides being chosen for various commissions and publishing projects the last two decades, he also co-hosts Ringside Heat, a weekly professional wrestling radio show.

Now with his new single “Where You Belong,” look for John Dawson to keep crafting fully formed gems that tug at your heartstrings as he wrestles with timeless, thoughtful aspects of the human condition.

HOT MUD Grapples With The Music Industry On Chipper, Vivacious Single “Nobody Listens To The Radio”

Decades ago, the music industry was on solid footing with various international labels, emerging independent labels highlighting alternative acts and record stores in major cities and small towns across North America and beyond. Now, the industry has fragmented. With advanced technology any conceivable artist or song from any era is at your fingertips.

But is it for the better? Well, Ottawa indie pop rocker artist Hot Mud (also known as Muddy Matthew Watters) addresses the issue with his latest smart single, the acerbic, pointed, and satirical single “Nobody Listens To The Radio” from the artist’s Pink Cloud Pop album.

“Although the satirical message paints a grim picture for music makers, the song itself proves that the art is still very much alive, and as creative, and exciting as ever,” Hot Mud writes of “Nobody Listens To The Radio.” A music video was also made for the song and released in late August showing Hot Mud performing as images of old, pre-digital radio dials are shown throughout. An old-school twin-cassette boom box is also used by Hot Mud in the video.

Soaked in a highbrow back beat and with just enough electronic atmosphere hovering over the song, “Nobody Listens To The Radio” soars before upping the ante in the beefy, infectious chorus. Hot Mud describes the “verse/chorus/verse” formula in most pop singles while citing algorithms and Artificial Intelligence as the bane of creativity. Think of some blend of Primitive Radio Gods, a tamer but more thoughtful Andrew WK and Elvis Costello’s sneering “Radio, Radio” and the industrious “Nobody Listens To The Radio” shines.

From the stream of consciousness
To the streaming services
To present its worthiness
To the rhythm of the mighty algorithm
Verse chorus verse
Music is a curse
The art has lost its worth
Music lost its worth

“Nobody Listens To The Radio” was written and performed almost entirely by Hot Mud (Watters) with backing vocals provided by Laura Snedden. The song is the followup to “Welcome To Humankind” and includes quotes culled from Hot Mud’s own dealings with fellow musicians from a radio program he currently produces entitled Canada’s Cool Culture hosted on Ottawa radio station CKCU 93.1 FM.

Hot Mud began as the alter ego for Watters but the alter ego began engulfing his life, leading him to battle demons and eventually end up in rehab. After a year of recovery, the artist took a horde of recording equipment, cameras and musical instruments into a small room at a “second-stage sober living” facility. Learning recording techniques by trial and error, Hot Mud eventually recorded songs that formed the debut album Rehab Rock. Following that album release Hot Mud issued an EP entitled Electric Gutter Club in May, 2024.

Now with the shimmering, fun and attention-grabbing “Nobody Listens To The Radio” look for Hot Mud to keep ensuring that rock n’ roll won’t be saying goodbye for the foreseeable future.

RnB/Jazz/Pop Singer Gracie Ella Finds Peace and Comfort in New Single “Skin”

Canadian singer-songwriter Gracie Ella conveys a beautiful combination of soulful vocals, vulnerable songwriting, and a wide array of diverse influences in her music. Through her art, the Oakville, ON native wants more than anything to comfort listeners. On her latest single, “Skin,” Ella shares how confident she has become with herself and how she doesn’t desire anything but her own independence and invincibility.

When I’m uncomfortable
I remember where I’ve been and
When I fall
I know where I fit in
I’m invincible
I’m wearing all my sins
And I wanna let you know that
I’m comfortable in my own Skin

With producing and writing contributions from Jesse Singer and Chris Soper, Ella was able to write what she calls one of the most genuine songs she’s ever written.

“We sent it off to several music executives, but it never received a huge reaction,” she says. “That did not discourage me, however, from bringing the song into the world. Years went by and I went through many life changes and much hardship in my personal life. I had planned to release a few other songs, but I knew that the day I released “Skin” would be an especially healing time in my life.”

Every single mistake that I have made
Has made me into the woman I am today
And everybody who hurt me that’s okay
I’ve got a thousand scars and I am grateful, grateful

After losing her beloved pet cat Mosey, Ella knew she had to finally record “Skin” in order to bring herself out of her sadness and grief. In April 2024 she called up her friend and producer/multi-instrumentalist/songwriter Derek Downham to help her with the single.

“We finished the song in 3 sessions,” Ella says. “The vocal take was one take, with no autotune. Although there is nothing wrong with using autotune, it can very easily be overused. Derek was and is incredibly supportive towards me emotionally and musically. He knew that the song deserved to be recorded with real instrumentation and focused on capturing a real performance, while adding sounds that enhanced that performance.”

As relatable and down-to-earth lyrics coincide with soft acoustic guitars and Ella’s signature soul, “Skin” is as pleasing to the ear as it is comforting and peaceful to the mind.

Throughout her musical journey, Gracie Ella has established herself as a highly successful songwriter, vocal arranger, and multi-instrumentalist. After studying in a prestigious jazz vocal program at university, the Toronto-based creative left after two years to pursue her music career. Over the past five years, Ella has worked with numerous renowned figures within the music industry including James Fauntleroy (Beyonce, Rihanna, Drake, Bruno), T-Minus (Drake, Bieber, Nicki Minaj, The Weeknd), Jenna Andrews (Drake, Dua Lipa, Little Mix), Jamie Hartman (Calvin Harris, Rag’n’Bone Man, Kygo), Swagg R’Celious (H.E.R., Kehlani, Zhavia Ward), Stuart Crichton (Selena Gomez, Backstreet Boys, Kesha), Mike DZL (Future, Meek Mill, Miguel, Kehlani, Jazmine Sullivan), Amy Allen (Halsey, Selena Gomez, Shawn Mendes) and Oak Felder (Kehlani, Brandy, Demi Lovato, Nicki Minaj), among many others.

Since 2020, Ella has released several singles and music videos for her songs “Sleep on Me (Eyes Closed),” “Lady,” “Butterflies,” and “Beat Me To It.” She has also become an incredibly successful and talented guitar player and keyboardist, having been recently featured on R&B singer Jojo’s latest album Trying Not To Think About It on the song “B.I.D.” Ella’s latest single “Skin” is out now.

Unlock the Magic: Outerbridge’s Mysteries of the Keyhole House Brings Enchantment and Illusion to Life at Flato Markham Theatre

Outerbridge Magic – Mysteries Of The Keyhole House “Grand Masters Of Illusion”

LIVE at Flato Markham Theatre: 171 Town Centre Blvd, Markham, ON

Sat., Oct. 26, 2024 2:00pm and 7:00pm

Tickets Available Here

If you like magic and mystery, you will love Outerbridge Magic: Mysteries of the Keyhole House! This sensational production by Ted and Marion Outerbridge is inspired by their historic Smith Falls residence and the mystical artifacts discovered during its restoration. Filled with grand illusions, comedy-magic, mentalism, and extraordinary prestidigitation this world-class magic show is one you’ll never forget. Praised as “Masters of Illusion” (CBC Radio) and “Champions of Magic” with over 30 million social media views and coverage on major networks, this family-friendly spectacle promises to delight!

Blues Rock Artist Mark Wihlidal and Producer Chris Birkett Collaborate on Age-Defying “One More Time” Single

The adage about time is that it remains undefeated. Everyone has to go at some point. But with today’s musical landscape, artists continue to defy Father Time (and the Grim Reaper) by performing well into their sixties, seventies and beyond. From the Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen to Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson, age is just a number. And Oshawa-based blues rock artist Mark Wihlidal and producer/guitarist Chris Birkett are taking that idea to the masses with the great, engrossing single “One More Time.”

Wihlidal says “One More Time,” produced by Chris Birkett and featuring Birkett’s guitar work, was inspired by the idea of equating one’s age to one’s self-worth or ability as an artist. “This song is about an aging artist who wants to keep getting on the stage and performing as they always have,” Wihlidal says. “They don’t want to be left behind or forgotten. They want their music to live on and not fade away. They feel that even though they are aged, they still have lots to give as an artist.”

“One More Time” is a thoughtful, slow-building song as Wihlidal’s powerful and passionate delivery shines while the electric guitar works its magic thanks to both Wihlidal and Birkett. Think of some combination between Canadian artist Tom Cochrane and the earthy, roots feel of John Hiatt and “One More Time” comes into full view over nearly four and a half enjoyable minutes.

Please let me sing one more day
Please let me play before I’m cast away
One more time, before I leave it all behind
Please don’t let me fade away.

Although Wihlidal says the inspiration for “One More Time” wasn’t initially coming from personal experience, he realized that aging and performing is “a hot topic” for him. “It has been implied that my age has lost me a few performances,” he says. “I was told that I cannot be an ’emerging artist’ because I am older.

“Why is it that the music business only wants youth and beauty? When we listen to a song, do you think about the age of the artist or how they look? NO…Never. Music is ageless. Performing is great for the soul at any age.”

Wihlidal, whose work has been featured in various Ontario daily publications both in his hometown of Oshawa and as far west as Niagara Falls, released the single “Life Can Be A Mystery” in 2022. In 2023 he released “You and Me” with the Doctors of Music, a group Wihlidal amicably parted company with earlier in 2024. Wihlidal has also been featured on several music sites ranging from Cashbox and Tinnitist to Record World and Canadian Beats.

Now with a new single and having recently performed dates in Alberta, Mark Wihlidal looks forward to new material and music in 2024 and beyond. He also hopes to collaborate with Birkett again. “He’s a true gentleman and boy can he play guitar,” Wihlidal says.

And just like the message heard loud and clear in “One More Time,” Wihlidal isn’t putting his feet up and retiring anytime soon. “Personally, you will have to drag me off a stage to put me in the grave. Aging artists deserve more attention. Artists AT ANY AGE have lots to share.”

It’s a timeless message for a song that sounds timeless.

The Truth About CBD for Arthritis: Can Cannabidiol Really Reduce Joint Pain?

By Mitch Rice

Arthritis is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, marked by joint inflammation and pain that can significantly reduce a person’s quality of life. There are various types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis, each with unique symptoms and underlying causes. For example, osteoarthritis is caused by the breakdown of cartilage within the joints, while rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder where the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks its own tissues.

The joint pain associated with arthritis can be highly debilitating, preventing individuals from carrying out everyday tasks and participating in their regular activities. The pain and stiffness that accompany arthritis can also lead to decreased mobility and a restricted range of motion in the affected joints. With the rise in interest surrounding alternative treatments, some individuals are exploring options like legal cannabis to manage their symptoms, as it may offer potential relief from inflammation and pain.

As a result, many people living with arthritis are constantly seeking new and innovative ways to manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

Key Takeaways

  • Arthritis causes joint pain and inflammation, impacting millions of people worldwide.
  • CBD has shown potential in reducing arthritis symptoms, backed by scientific research.
  • Studies have shown that CBD can reduce inflammation and relieve joint pain in arthritis patients.
  • The legal and regulatory landscape of CBD for arthritis treatment is evolving, with more acceptance and accessibility.
  • When choosing and using CBD products for arthritis management, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional and consider factors like dosage and product quality.

The Science Behind CBD and Its Potential for Alleviating Arthritis Symptoms

Therapeutic Potential for Arthritis and Inflammatory Conditions

This has led to growing interest in the use of CBD as a potential treatment for arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a key role in regulating various physiological processes, including pain perception, inflammation, and immune function. By interacting with cannabinoid receptors in the body, CBD may help to modulate the body’s response to pain and inflammation, potentially providing relief for individuals with arthritis.

Mechanisms of Action

In addition to its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD has also been shown to have neuroprotective and antioxidant effects, which may further contribute to its potential benefits for arthritis management.

Potential Benefits for Arthritis Management

Overall, the potential therapeutic benefits of CBD make it an attractive option for individuals seeking alternative treatments for arthritis and other inflammatory conditions.

Exploring the Research: What Studies Say About CBD and Arthritis

While the use of CBD for arthritis is still relatively new, there is a growing body of research that suggests it may have potential as a treatment option. A 2016 study published in the European Journal of Pain found that topical application of CBD reduced joint swelling and pain in rats with arthritis. Another study published in the Journal of Experimental Medicine in 2017 found that CBD significantly reduced inflammation and pain in a mouse model of osteoarthritis.

These preclinical studies provide promising evidence for the potential benefits of CBD in alleviating arthritis symptoms. In addition to animal studies, there have also been some human clinical trials investigating the use of CBD for arthritis. A 2018 review published in the journal Frontiers in Pharmacology analyzed the results of several clinical trials and observational studies on the use of cannabis and cannabinoids for chronic pain management.

 The review found that cannabinoids, including CBD, showed promise for reducing pain and improving sleep in individuals with chronic pain conditions, including arthritis. While more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD on arthritis symptoms, these early studies provide encouraging evidence for its potential as a treatment option.

How CBD Works in the Body to Reduce Inflammation and Relieve Joint Pain

Study Findings
2016 study in the European Journal of Pain Topical CBD application reduced pain and inflammation related to arthritis without any side effects.
2017 study in the journal Pain Oral CBD treatment reduced joint pain and inflammation in rats.
2018 review in Frontiers in Pharmacology CBD may be a safe and effective treatment for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

The anti-inflammatory effects of CBD are thought to be one of the key mechanisms by which it may help to alleviate arthritis symptoms. Inflammation is a natural response by the body’s immune system to injury or infection, but when it becomes chronic, it can contribute to the development and progression of arthritis. CBD has been shown to modulate the body’s inflammatory response by interacting with cannabinoid receptors and other signaling pathways involved in inflammation.

 In addition to its anti-inflammatory effects, CBD may also help to alleviate arthritis pain by interacting with the body’s pain signaling pathways. The endocannabinoid system plays a key role in regulating pain perception, and CBD has been shown to modulate these pathways in preclinical studies. By reducing pain signaling and increasing pain threshold, CBD may help to alleviate the chronic pain associated with arthritis.

The Legal and Regulatory Landscape of CBD for Arthritis Treatment



The legal status of CBD varies depending on where you live. In the United States, for example, CBD derived from hemp is legal at the federal level as long as it contains no more than 0.3%. THHowever, individual states may have their own laws regarding the use and sale of CBD products. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the laws in your area before purchasing or using CBD products for arthritis management.

 In addition to legal considerations, it’s also important to be aware of the regulatory landscape surrounding CBD products. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has not approved CBD for the treatment of arthritis or any other medical condition, which means that there are no standardized dosing guidelines or quality control measures in place for CBD products. This can make it challenging for consumers to know what they are getting when they purchase CBD products, as there is a wide range of quality and potency among different brands.

Real-Life Stories: Personal Experiences with Using CBD for Arthritis Relief

Reducing Pain and Inflammation

Many individuals with arthritis have reported positive experiences with using CBD to manage their symptoms. Some have found that CBD helps to reduce their pain and inflammation, allowing them to move more freely and engage in activities that were previously difficult or impossible.

Improving Sleep and Overall Well-being

Others have reported improvements in their sleep quality and overall well-being after incorporating CBD into their daily routine. This is a significant benefit, as arthritis can often disrupt sleep patterns and overall quality of life.

A Personal Success Story

One woman with rheumatoid arthritis shared her experience using CBD oil for pain relief in an interview with Arthritis Foundation. She explained that she had tried numerous medications and treatments without success before discovering CBD. After incorporating CBD into her daily regimen, she noticed a significant reduction in her joint pain and stiffness, as well as improvements in her overall mood and energy levels.

A Growing Interest in CBD

While her experience is just one anecdotal example, it reflects the growing interest in using CBD as a natural alternative for managing arthritis symptoms. As more people share their positive experiences with CBD, it’s clear that this natural remedy is worth exploring for those seeking relief from arthritis symptoms.

 

Tips for Choosing and Using CBD Products for Arthritis Management

If you are considering using CBD for arthritis relief, there are several factors to consider when choosing and using CBD products. First and foremost, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment regimen, especially if you are currently taking medications or have underlying health conditions. A healthcare provider can help you determine whether CBD is a safe and appropriate option for your individual needs.

 When choosing a CBD product, it’s important to look for high-quality brands that prioritize transparency and quality control. Look for products that have been tested by third-party laboratories for potency and purity and that provide detailed information about their sourcing and manufacturing processes. It’s also important to consider the type of product that best suits your needs, whether it’s a tincture, topical cream, or edible product.

 In terms of dosing, there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to using CBD for arthritis management. Dosing can vary depending on factors such as body weight, metabolism, and the severity of your symptoms. It’s best to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed while monitoring your response.

 Keep in mind that it may take some time to experience the full effects of CBD, so be patient and consistent with your use. In conclusion, while more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD on arthritis symptoms, there is growing evidence to suggest that it may have potential as a treatment option. The anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties of CBD make it an attractive natural alternative for individuals seeking relief from arthritis-related pain and inflammation.

However, it’s important to approach the use of CBD with caution and with your health before starting any new treatment regimen. With careful consideration and informed decision-making, many individuals with arthritis may find relief and improved quality of life through the use of high-quality CBD products.

FAQs

What is CBD?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a chemical compound found in the cannabis plant. It is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce a “high” like THC, another compound found in cannabis.

Is CBD legal?

The legal status of CBD varies by country and state. In the United States, CBD derived from hemp with less than 0.3% THC is legal at the federal level, but laws vary by state. It’s important to check local laws before purchasing or using CBD products.

Can CBD reduce joint pain from arthritis?

Some studies suggest that CBD may have anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, which could potentially help with arthritis pain. However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD on arthritis.

Are there any side effects of using CBD for arthritis?

Common side effects of CBD may include nausea, fatigue, and irritability. It can also interact with certain medications, so it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional before using CBD, especially if you are taking other medications.

How should I use CBD for arthritis?

CBD can be taken in various forms, including oils, capsules, edibles, and topical creams. The appropriate dosage and form of CBD for arthritis may vary from person to person, so it’s best to start with a low dose and gradually increase as needed while monitoring for any effects.

Data and information are provided for informational purposes only, and are not intended for investment or other purposes.

1...212223...2,057Page 22 of 2,057
That Eric Alper
6-time nominee for Publicist of the Year during Canadian Music Week, a 16-time JUNO Award winner overseeing PR campaigns, and have also been truly honoured to work with some of the biggest and most important artists of our time.

POPULAR POSTS

POPULAR CATEGORY

© Copyright That Eric Alper