We continue our Boots and Hearts Emerging Artist features with Stouffville, Ontario’s Amber-Jo Bowman. Music has been a part of her life for as long as she can remember. It is a deep passion which brings her an abundance of fulfilment, joy and purpose. Amber’s wish is to touch people’s hearts with her lyrics and melodies, hoping they will find their own meaning and connect with the stories she tells through songs.
Amber-Jo Bowman Gravity cover
Amber released her debut EP, Gravity, late last year and is getting ready to step into the spotlight as one of the top 8 in the 2019 Boots and Hearts Emerging Artist Showcase.
We asked Amber 10 questions so that you could get to know her a little bit better before she steps out onto the stage a week from today.
#1: Hundreds, if not thousands, of musicians submit for their chance to make the top 8 in this annual showcase. You are facing off against 7 of your peers for a chance at the title of 2019 Boots and Hearts Emerging Artist of the Year a title shared with artists like Tebey, The Reklaws, James Barker Band and Jade Eagleson to name a few. What made you apply for this opportunity?
I’ve heard about the emerging artist showcase before and have seen how other artists like those mentioned above have done so well since. It seemed like an amazing opportunity, so I thought I’d give it a shot. I never could have dreamed it would be as amazing as it has already been! I’m so thankful that Chevy Music and Boots and hearts are providing a space for emerging artists like me to have the chance to turn our passions into a career.
#2: Every artist I’ve spoken to has a story about how / when they decided to purse music as a career. Describe the moment that you knew that music was the path for you.
I started playing guitar around 12 years old just for fun after my dad and brothers taught me some chords. I was inspired by Taylor Swift and learned many of her songs. Playing in my room by myself or for my family quickly became one of my favourite hobbies. Playing music and writing songs became my outlet and safe haven. From there I grew up singing and playing more seriously in church, high school choir and local coffee houses / talent shows. My passion grew and grew into something I couldn’t ignore. After high school I tried to take the practical route and go to University to hopefully get a “normal job”. Towards the end of my degree, although I learned a lot, I knew music was the only thing I wanted to do. So that’s when I decided to record my first album and really take it seriously!
#3: What’s your all-time favourite movie?
So tough to choose, I grew up on some of the classics like The Lord of The Rings, and lots of war movies with my brothers like Braveheart. Those are some of my favourites!
Amber-Jo Bowman (provided photo)
#4: Your ideal brain food?
Coffee lol! Even though it’s not the greatest for the vocal cords, I’m definitely addicted!
#5: If you could see any artist in concert, who would you see (living or dead)?
Johnny Cash!
#6: Name a fictional character most like you?
I really related with the character “Scarlett” from the TV Show “Nashville”. I related with a lot of her life struggles as well as her personality which was a bit shy and timid, but she pushed herself to grow and put herself out there because of her love for music. In the end (spoiler) she uses her music to help others which really inspired me. I think if I ever have a daughter, I’ll name her Scarlett!
#7: If you were a superhero what would be your superhero name?
I’m not sure, I love Superman and Supergirl so maybe I could somehow be a long-lost part of their family from Krypton! Super Amber Jo-El!
Amber-Jo Bowman LIVE (provided photo)
#8: Who are your musical influences that inspired you to follow in their path? What artists today, if any, inspire you to continue down that path?
When I was younger, I was really inspired by Taylor Swift and the honesty in her songs. My brother was always blasting Johnny Cash and I love his music. Today I love artists like Kelsea Ballerini, Maren Morris, Eric Church and Tenille Townes. I appreciate their songwriting and the way they come across authentic in their art.
#9: You’re going on a world tour as a headliner, who would you pick to open your tour for you each night?
That’s a tough one! Probably some of my singer songwriter friends who are grinding in the music scene right now, I’d love to take those close to me along for the ride with me!
#10: Tell us why you should be crowned the 2019 Boots and Hearts Emerging Artist Showcase winner?
I plan to give it my best shot and work hard at this showcase, but I’m really just so thankful for the opportunity and what I’ve already learned from it so far. The other 7 contestants are all amazing artists and I’m really honoured to share the stage with them! No matter what happens I’m looking forward to whatever comes next!
Want to know more about Amber-Jo? You can follow her online at any of the links below!
Website: http://www.amberjobowman.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmberJoMusic/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/amberjomusic/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/aambercrump
Special thanks to Amber-Jo for taking the time to answer our questions, best of luck with the showcase next Thursday afternoon…we’ll see you at Boots!
