Canadian pride was on full display during Saturday nights concert as Tim Hicks and his band rocked the stage in the last edition of the Troubadour Festival Summer Concert Series presented by Paul Sadlon Motors. From hit songs like ‘Loud’ and ‘Here Comes the Thunder’ and ‘Stronger Beer’, Hicks kept the crowd rolling. “I still love it, and the number one thing that we hear from our fans is you guys always look like you’re having such a good time, and I say it’s because we are having such a good time,” said Hicks. “It’s hard to fake that when you’re up there, and so even this far into the game, I still live for that 90 minutes on that stage, I just love it.” Thousands of people made there way to downtown Barrie as the emerging artists showcase once again highlighted local talent. Canadian folk country singer and song writer Evan Denley had his guitar and an intimate stripped-back approach to the troubadour stage. “Felt good, I like sharing what I think, sharing how I feel, and this is how I do it,” said Denley. “If it connects with somebody out there, that’s what I hope” Candace and Michael brought their love and storytelling to the stage as the husband and wife duo worked the crowd blending harmonies and showcased their new album ‘Meant to be’. “A very energetic crowd and just looking out (there was) so many people here tonight and I’m so grateful to be here,” said Candace. “We’re just filled with gratitude, we love this festival, we love the space, and we’re honored to play it and hope we can do it again,” said Michael. A downtown Barrie staple; Barstool Confession also got a chance to shine on the big stage bringing their hometown sound with it, describing the importance of local music in the community. “To have a crowd like this to share you music with, I don’t think there’s anything like it,” said lead singer Buck Goodbrand. “You can put your music out there on platforms all you want, but if people don’t hear it sometimes in these settings, and they may not know you exists.” British Columbia’s own Mitch Zorn then took the stage keeping the crowd engaged for Tim Hicks. He said the crowd was loud. “High energy, I’m a pretty nervous guy, so it was good to have them singing back to me,” said Zorn. “Keeps me in it and It was a good time, I had a blast.” From The Road Hammers to Tim Hicks, this years Troubadour Summer Concert Series provided free music to the community while highlighting the immense local musical talent right through our region.
