Johnny Reid at the GM Centre, Oshawa, Ontario on Saturday, March 12, 2016

A tantalizing performance none other than Mr. Johnny Reid last night in Oshawa. By watching Johnny perform with his band and backup vocals gave a whole new meaning to how I listen to his music, and his electrifying personality on stage was felt by many throughout the venue. Born in Scotland and grew up in Brampton, Ontario, Johnny has come a long way in his music career.

There were two opening acts; the first performer was Aaron Goodvin from Spirit-River Alberta with just his acoustic guitar and a great sense of humor. With his ballcap pulled down over his eyes and piercing country radio voice he charmed the crowd with his humble awe-shucks attitude. His song “Knock On Wood” is the past 10 years of my life wrapped into three and half minutes,” says Aaron.” “It’s also a great reminder to myself of all the hard times I got through just to get a song like this on the radio.” He had told Johnny Reid that “All I want to do is share my music with an audience” says Aaron. Johnny Reid has taken him under his wing which shows you what kind of guy he truly is. He truly wants to help other artists.

Calgary’s JJ Shiplett came on next. He is a journeyman, hard-working musician flying under the radar until Reid became a fan and now his manager and started directing his career. With a beat up hat and looking like a Civil War veteran, Shiplett rarely smiles while doing sombre though catchy songs that fall on the Steve Earle side of country music. He’s got a great guitarman who bends notes on his Tele like it was a lap steel and does double duty with the fiddle as well. On the strength of tunes like “Higher Ground” and “Something to Believe In” JJ Shiplett is one to watch.

I can’t end this review without expressing how Johnny Reid was sure to fire up the stage with the Durham Police on stage drumming away, to him going and giving hugs to fans. He is truly a very humble man and expresses that very deeply in his actions and music. Nonetheless with the dazzling light shows and the amazing talent of all the musicians that night I can say it was one incredible show. This just goes to show that with amazing talent and one incredible performer little dreams can come true.

Photographer: Glenn Tindale

Reviewer: Tania Normand