Refolkus

In this week's episode, Rosalyn chats with Jennifer Roe, the Executive Director of Folk Alliance International. They talk in depth about the organization's initiatives, including the Folk+ event and the annual Folk Alliance International Conference. The conversation highlights how conferences serve as vital spaces for networking and mutual support, reinforcing the strength and interconnectedness o...

In this week’s episode, Rosalyn chats with Andrew Karis, Associate Director of ACTRA RACS. Andrew discusses ACTRA RACS’s role in the music industry, the intricacies of neighboring rights, how streaming has reshaped the landscape and the importance of fair compensation for recording artists. The conversation also highlights advocacy efforts with the Burst Their Bubble campaign, aimed at addressing...

In this week’s episode, Rosalyn speaks with Troy Greencorn about the growing impact of climate change on music festivals, with a focus on the Stan Rogers Folk Festival. Troy shares firsthand accounts of extreme weather disrupting festival operations and reflects on the urgent need for resilience and adaptation in the face of these challenges. He underscores the vital role of community support in s...

In this week’s episode, Rosalyn chats with music publicist Beth Cavanagh about the evolving world of music publicity. They dive into what makes an artist bio stand out, how to build strong media and fan relationships, and why realistic goals and patience are essential for long-term success. Beth also shares actionable tips for artists looking to promote themselves more effectively and insight into...

This week, Rosalyn chats with Mohawk folk and soul artist Logan Staats. Logan reflects on some of the pivotal moments that have shaped his career, as well as his transformative time spent in Nashville, where he focused on writing new songs and honing his craft. He shares how sobriety, family, and a deep-rooted connection to his community help keep him grounded. Plus, he offers a glimpse of what’s...

In this week’s episode, Rosalyn is joined by Tamara Lindeman of The Weather Station. Tamara reflects on how climate grief has shaped her music, a theme that emerged with her previous album Ignorance . She discusses her latest record, Humanhood , which explores themes of personal disconnection and healing, while continuing to resonate with the emotional weight of climate grief and broader political...

In this week’s episode, Rosalyn chats with Devin Latimer, an organic chemist specializing in green chemistry and the Artistic Director of Trout Forest Music Festival. They explore how community festivals can become powerful tools for climate action in that they offer unique opportunities to engage the public, spark dialogue, and promote environmental awareness. They also discuss the need for stron...

In this week's episode, Rosalyn catches up with Acadian singer-songwriter Lisa LeBlanc for a fun and wide-ranging conversation about what it means to put on a truly compelling show. They talk about Lisa’s bold performance style and aesthetic, her recent collaboration with an artistic director to create visually striking live shows, and how pushing creative boundaries keeps things fresh. Lisa also...

In this week's episode, Rosalyn chats with multi-talented artist Tommyphyll. They discuss his journey as an Afrobeats innovator and his signature fusion of sounds, which he calls Afrodiem . Tommyphyll shares insights into his creative process and the importance of connecting with his audience online — emphasizing quality content as a driver of social media and audience growth. He also reflects on...

*WARNING: This episode touches on themes of mental health struggles and sexual assault. If these are sensitive subjects to you, please listen with care* In this week's episode, Rosalyn chats with Jessica Pearson as she reflects on the whirlwind that followed her unexpected moment of viral fame and the emotional fallout that came with it. They explore the double-edged sword of virality, the toll it...

In this week's episode, Rosalyn chats with Joel Plaskett. Joel takes us deep into the making of his latest album, ‘ One Real Reveal ’ released in 2024. Drawing from his long and varied career in music, he opens up about the creative journey behind making this record — from songwriting and theme development to the hands-on process of analog recording. Joel shares why analog matters to him, both tec...

In this week's episode, we chat with Elizabeth Rodriguez of OKAN. Elizabeth reflects on the profound impact of her African ancestry on their music and takes us through her journey from classical music to rediscovering her roots in Cuban music and improvisation. She talks about the role of music in driving social change and how her personal experiences inspire her songwriting. Elizabeth also opens...

In this week's episode, we chat with James McKie and Stefan Read of Pressgang Mutiny, a Toronto-based sea shanty group. James and Stefan discuss the resurgence of sea shanties, their cultural significance, and the evolving landscape of traditional and folk music. They also reflect on navigating trends in traditional music while remaining authentic to their roots. James and Stefan also share a litt...

In this week's episode, we chat with Spencer Shewen, the Artistic Director of the Mariposa Folk Festival. Spencer takes us through his journey into the music festival scene, sharing his experiences with both Riverfest Elora and the legendary Mariposa Folk Festival. He offers a behind-the-scenes look at programming the Mariposa festival lineup, sharing his perspectives on how folk music encompasses...

In this week's episode, we chat with Andrew Cash, President and CEO of the Canadian Independent Music Association (CIMA).  Rosalyn and Andrew discuss CIMA’s role in advocating for the Canadian independent music sector and the impact of Bill C-11. They also dive into the current political landscape affecting artists, emphasizing the importance of supporting Canadian artists and the need for a stabl...

Welcome back to the fourth season of Refolkus. In this week's episode, we chat with Michelle Allman-Esdaille, owner and sync agent at The Hook and Co, The Hook Sync Group and Sustainable Creative Living.  In this episode, Rosalyn and Michelle discuss the intricacies of sync and licensing in music. They chat about the roles of music supervisors and sync agents, the process of getting a song license...

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with Julie Schryer and Pat O’Gorman, the Founders and Artistic Directors of AlgomaTrad and the recipients of the 2024 Estelle Klein Community Builder Award.  Hear about their incredible work with AlgomaTrad and its journey from a small initiative to a thriving community, built through the sharing, learning, and celebration of music, dance, art, and herit...

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with Kaeley Jade. We dive into her incredible journey from gigging at just 9 years old to becoming a recording and performing artist. She reflects on how attending industry conferences opened her eyes to the business side of music, shaping her path as an independent, DIY artist.  Kaeley also takes us behind the scenes of her work in theatre, including wr...

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with Jorge Requena Ramos, Artistic Director of the West End Cultural Centre (WECC). Jorge takes us through the rich history and community impact of the WECC as a key venue for music and culture, hosting diverse performances and fostering connections through the arts. Jorge also discusses the WECC’s strong commitment to anti-racism and anti-oppression, wh...

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with singer-songwriter Begonia. Begonia shares her unique approach to songwriting, revealing the inspiration behind her lyrics and how she translates her emotions into music. She also offers insights about how she nurtures her creativity both on and off the road and explains the routines and practices that keep her inspired, even amidst the demands of to...

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with Robyn Stewart, the Executive Director of Women in Music Canada. Robyn delves into the crucial topics of equity within the music industry, providing a thoughtful analysis of the current landscape and sharing her views on both the importance of creating inclusive spaces for all, and the various ways to overcome barriers. Robyn also discusses the signi...

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with David Landreth, Co-Founder and COO of Birthday Cake Records, a Winnipeg-based record label, music publishing, and artist management company. David shares the story behind Birthday Cake Records and how the label came to be. He discusses the labels unique approach to discovering and signing new artists and how they work with those artists to dial in t...

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with Amie Therrien, the Executive Director of Music Managers Forum Canada (MMF Canada). In this episode, Amie shares her journey as a music manager, exploring what drew her to the profession and the unique challenges it entails. She delves into the key roles and responsibilities of a manager, offering insights into commission structures, contracts, and h...

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with Leonard Podolak, the Co-Artistic/Executive Director of Home Routes/Chemin Chez Nous, Canada’s pioneering house concert circuit. In this episode, Leonard delves into the origins of Home Routes, sharing how the concept came to life. He explores the unique charm of house concerts, highlighting their ability to provide artists with intimate access to au...

In this week's episode of ReFolkUs, we chat with Tom Coxworth, producer and DJ of the ‘Folk Routes’ radio show on CKUA Radio in Calgary. Tom shares his expertise on conducting interviews, emphasizing the importance of preparation, building rapport, and genuinely connecting with artists. He discusses what makes a successful interview from both the artist's and interviewer's perspectives, highlighti...