Sept, 2023
Brian Edwards is being recognized for being a ‘builder’ of the Canadian country music scene. During this year’s Country Music Week taking place Sept. 14 to 16 in Hamilton, the Rocklands Entertainment Inc. founder and president will be presented with the Canadian Country Music Association’s Stan Klees Builder Award and inducted into the Hall of Fame. Interestingly, Edwards joins many of the artists he has promoted over his 43-year – and running – career.
“It sort of brings it all around now,” said Edwards, who was “kind of stunned” when he was notified of the award. “A lot of the people in there, I’ve worked with at some point.”
Becoming a promoter was kind of a no-brainer for Edwards who grew up in a house filled with music, enhanced by his square dance-calling dad Rae and Peterborough radio DJ and personality “Sunshine” Sean Eyre. Back in the day, people could call into radio stations and chat personally with DJs. Over time Edwards and Eyre struck up a friendship which continues to this day.
Although he was only 15, Edwards enthusiastically took on a few “odd jobs” for Eyre who, after just two years, encouraged the Kenner Collegiate student to pursue his booking license. “It wasn’t easy to get one and almost impossible for someone my age (17),” said Edwards.
Although humbled by the recognition, Edwards admits he’s also looking forward to the award presentation. “It’s an incredible honour … and because it’s voted on by the membership, it means so much more,” said Edwards.