It’s that time of year again and coast to coast festivals are announcing their summer lineups. This week kicks off with a little bit more country for our friends in Eastern Canada with Maritime Countryfest unveiling their lineup.
The 10th annual Maritime Countryfest will take place on June 20, 2015 at Officers Square in downtown Fredericton.
Chart-topping, multi-platinum selling recording artist, Johnny Reid will headline the festival. Special guests include, country rockers, The Road Hammers, acclaimed country star, Joe Diffie and Kentucky country-folk duo, Sundy Best.
“Johnny Reid’s name is one we have been talking about since we acquired MCF three years ago,” said Ray Haines, Promoter and Festival Vice President. “He’s the package deal, a singer, songwriter, storyteller and performer. In ten years, he’s had over a million album sales, won well over 20 Canadian Country Music Awards and four Juno Awards. His ability to connect with fans and offer a one-of-a-kind performance makes him the perfect fit for the festival’s 10th anniversary.” Reid has a new album set for release in Fall 2015 with a new radio single dropping in early May.
The big names don’t stop there! On the heels of their latest album, Wheels, both country fans and rock and roll lovers will revel in fearless high-octane group, The Road Hammers! Featuring front man and veteran country singer, Jason McCoy, the group has earned several Canadian chart hits and CCMA Group of the Year honors in both 2005 and 2006.
Also part of this classy line up is country hit maker and Grand Ole Opry member, Joe Diffie. With 13 albums and over 20 Top 10 singles to his credit, Diffie dominated the charts in the ‘90’s with songs like “John Deere Green”, “Prop Me Up Beside The Juke Box”, “Third Rock From The Sun” and “Honky Tonk Attitude”. With soaring vocals and a signature sound, Diffie will not disappoint.
After a highly successful first time Canadian Tour, opening for Dallas Smith this past fall, Sundy Best will round out this year’s event with a full band performance. Repeatedly featured in Rolling Stone Country, the duo is promoting their latest CD, Salvation City, released in 2014. “These talented Kentucky boys are young, fun and offer an energy that is sure to be the talk of the town.” added Haines.
Early bird and VIP tickets to Maritime Countryfest 2015 go on sale this Friday, March 13 at 10 a.m.
Special early bird promotion: Until Friday, April 3 (while reserved quantities last), patrons can purchase one general admission ticket at $85.00 (including tax) and receive a second ticket at half price! Also available are limited quantity VIP tickets at $115.00 each (including tax). This new VIP area will be sure to increase the overall patron experience with features such as a seated area with fantastic stage sightlines, a private bar and washrooms. Early bird general admission tickets and VIP tickets are available online only at maritimecountryfest.com.
On Friday, April 3 at 10 a.m., remaining tickets will become available at both Petro-Canada Rainbow Car Wash locations in Fredericton. Day of show tickets will increase by $10 per ticket (including tax).
Festival gates open at 3 p.m. with music starting at 3:45 p.m. for this all ages event.
Festival President, Joe Keenan shared these words: “Hosting a premier festival is more than finding a venue and picking some great talent. We know that without the support of music lovers, we simply would not be here. While the ‘to-do’ list is a mile long, the top of that list is increasing patron support and comfort. We are working to ensure everyone has an experience they’ll remember and plan to come back year after year! Our hopes are that folks will see and appreciate that this is a top quality event, right here in our backyard. We no longer have to plan vacations away to hear great music. We are bringing it (music) here to our Capital City, our Province.”
For more information on Maritime Countryfest 2015, visit: maritimecountryfest.com, like them on Facebook: /MCFest, or follow them on Twitter: @MCFest.