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Catch Jojo Mason at Kempenfest

Rising country star pays first visit to Barrie
Jojo Mason
Rising star Jojo Mason plays Kempenfest on Aug. 5. Photo provided

Unlike Tim Horton, budding hockey star Jojo Mason did not immediately have a backup plan in case something happened to his on-ice career (which it did). 

The Regina native, on his way to Barrie and Kempenfest early next month, told BarrieToday it was after sustaining a herniated disc which ultimately curtailed pro hockey for him, “and months of rehabilitation that I realized my hockey career was over and I was starting from square one again. But once I found a new passion and a new love, I knew this is what I was meant to be doing.”

Fortunately, that passion was singing and he found he was good at it. And Jojo has never looked back.

Such hits as It’s All Good have come out of the mill, more recently Something to Wrap my Heart Around and Red Dress. But the thrill of hearing that first hit on the radio for the first time never quite leaves an artist, no matter who you are.

“I was a completely unknown, independent artist. When I released (It’s All Good), I didn’t have any expectations and just hoped for the best! I watched it start climbing the charts and eventually broke the top 10! I was absolutely in shock and was so grateful to Canadian Country Radio for giving me a shot! The first time I heard myself on the radio, I may have shed a tear or two.”

And about time, too.

“About a year before the release, I was at my lowest point, my rock bottom, and to see how far I had come not only as a musician but as a person made me able to finally be proud of the man looking back in the mirror!”

The Canadian Country Music Association nominated Mason as Rising Star last year, which also helped enormously.

“For up-and-coming artists like myself to be recognized in such an incredible way, and to be thought of like this by your peers is amazing. I have been so grateful for the opportunities that have come my way since being nominated and hope they continue!”

But while an NHL career evaded Jojo Mason, hockey remains in his blood, especially since the tragedy in Humboldt last spring. He is, after all, from Saskatchewan.

“I absolutely carry Humboldt with me. I am a very proud to be from Saskatchewan and have played hockey in Humboldt growing up. If there is one thing I know about us flatlanders is that we stick together through the tough times and good times and it definitely showed.

“But what is so incredible about such a tragic event is how not only us as a province, but us as a country were there for each other and the city of Humboldt. The hockey community across the world came together and showed how strong we are together and that alone makes me proud.”

Another incredible adventure: Jojo is coming to Barrie for the very first time, and that provides something of a tingle, especially being on the same bill with the Bareback Riders, the Reklaws and other great country acts.

“What I have heard is that this town likes to party. So when I come through, I know we’re gonna have an incredible time. I can’t wait for Kempenfest!”

And there’s more.

“We’re gonna have some new music coming your way soon and to follow me on Instagram and Twitter: @jojomasonmusic and to come along this ride with me and holler at me anytime!”

Jojo Mason takes the stage at Kempenfest Sunday, Aug. 5 at 9 p.m. To learn about Kempenfest and Jojo, click here.


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Glenn Wilkins

About the Author: Glenn Wilkins

Glenn Wilkins, in a 30-year media career, has written for print and electronic media, as well as for TV and radio. Glenn has two books under his belt, profiling Canadian actors on Broadway and NHL coaches.
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