George Canyon has come a long way since the beginning of his musical career. He began making music in the 90’s, but his career really took off in 2004 when he finished as runner-up in the Nashville Star competition. He then put his Policing and Royal Air Force responsibilities to the side, landed a record deal, and hit the road touring and recording. Since then, he’s won 2 JUNO Awards, 7 CCMA Awards, and has had many nominations.
George has been spending the past couple of years writing for his (2016) album, and is releasing his latest single this week! We got to hear from George on the making of the new album, choosing the albums first single, his teenage children at home, and his Nova Scotia Country Music Hall of Fame Induction.
What inspired “I Got This”?
The song to me is reminiscent to the days when my wife and I were dating. The song is meant to be light and fun showing playfulness between a couple, be them dating, newlyweds or married for many years.
Tell us about the production of this single and what the process has been like for you.
I co-produced the song with Jeff Johnson and it was a great experience. I have been blessed to get to produce with many fine producers and I consider Jeff to be one of them. The song had a wee bit of a different process in its creation. We worked at it intensely, patiently piecing the parts together over a few weeks.
How many songs did you choose from to select I Got This as the first single?
We had a list of approx. 8 to choose from.
How long have you been writing for your upcoming album? How is this process different from your past albums?
I have been writing for a couple years now for the new record. I wanted to create a record that would span all of my musical influences.
You have 2 teenagers, I bet they’re proud of your recent induction (congratulations)! How does it feel to be in a ‘hall of fame’?
It feels very strange to be inducted into the Hall of Fame. I am so honoured and shocked. I never dreamed I would ever be given that honour. My two kids are the greatest kids in the world and I know they are proud of their dad.
What’s it like being a touring musician with teen’s at home? Do they join you on the road?
My son came out for a few shows during the summer months last year but they normally do not join me on the road. They are both very active kids. In my career of 25 years the hardest part has always been leaving home and missing them and their mom like crazy.
What can we expect with your upcoming album?
This new record is going from one end of the spectrum to the other for me. The songs that are traditionalistic in nature to songs that have a strong pop influence. I wanted to make a record, for the first time in my career, that might have the opportunity to entertain many fans of different musical diversities.
‘I Got This’ will officially release on Friday October 9th, and you’ll start hearing it on the airwaves this week! Plus, you can expect his new album, the first full album release in a couple of years, in early 2016.
