Newfoundland’s Jason Benoit has been keeping busy, he released his newest EP, Revolution Pt. 1 back in October, toured with The Washboard Union this Fall, and also had his single, “Gone Long Gone” reach GOLD status! What a year! We had a chance to catch up with Jason, so be sure to take a moment to check that out!
Let me start off by saying congratulations on “Gone Long Gone” becoming Gold certified this year! That’s incredible. What’s significant for you about this particular song going Gold?
Thanks so much! It’s definitely a huge milestone in my career! My first Gold Single as an Independent singer/songwriter. It definitely feels like vindication or a message from the powers that be saying “Great Job…Now keep going”.
Growing up in Newfoundland, how is the music scene different there compared to Toronto?
We all live in one big beautiful country called “Canada”, and from one end to the other, we generally all have the same love and need for music in our lives. The only difference I see is the music scene in Newfoundland and Labrador is just on a smaller scale than Toronto.
Well, your hometown has its benefits, including your CCMA Discovery Atlantic Award! How did it feel to be awarded with that?
It meant a lot to be recognized by my peers for this honour. Coming from a small town, I only dreamed of getting to the level of success I have achieved up to this point. It’s definitely a dream come true.
In your five year career (so far), there have been a few tours. What’s your favourite part about touring?
It’s always a whirlwind and a lot of work but so much fun. My favorite part is hitting the stage and reaching out to the fans. They are the reason why I do this and I truly appreciate their love and support.
What’s your favourite part of coming home after a tour?
My kids. They are used to me coming and going like a gypsy but they still miss me and after all the hard work and miles traveled on tour, coming home and seeing them again is my biggest joy.
You certainly have some festival experience, including big events like Boots and Hearts, Calgary Stampede and Cavendish Beach Music Festival. What’s the best part about performing at a festival compared to a regular show?
Festivals are so fun because it’s a great way to see a wide variety of artists all in one place. It’s great for the fans but t’s also great for us as artists. It’s a great opportunity for us to get to know each other backstage. It’s all-around fun for both the artists and fans. But individual shows are great for your fans to get to know you better. A festival is all about the party, while a show is more about the artistry. Both different but then the same.
Having performed at all these festivals, you’ve shared the stage with some big names! Old Dominion, Tim McGraw, Lady Antebellum, Kenny Chesney and Brett Kissel. Are there any artists you’d love to collaborate with?
For sure! Id love to collab with My good buddy Cory Marks who’s recently been taking the international country scene by storm. It’s great to see the underdog coming out on top! We both grew up listening to the old country outlaws and I think we’d come up with something pretty fun. Also, it’ll be cool to collab with Tenille Townes. I love her soulful style.
Revolution Pt.1 came out just over a month ago! How does it feel to have that out in the world?
It feels amazing. I personally love the songs on this album. They represent me so well. And this is my first physically released album which is another milestone for me. All very exciting!
What’s your favourite song on the EP?
My favorite song has to be “Two Wrongs”. It was written innocently by two guys just sitting around enjoying some laughs, drinks, and music. It just came about naturally. It was fun to write and just as much fun to perform. I love this song.
Can we expect a Pt. 2?
Part 2 is definitely in the works. I’m writing new & better songs all the time.
Your debut album Waves came out in 2017. How has your music changed since then?
I think my new music reflects who I am much more now than in the past. I was just trying to fit in back then, writing music that was more in line with what other artists were doing at the time. Now I feel more confident in who I am and what I can do as an artist. Which is why, I believe, “Revolution part 1” is such a special project. It’s a step in a new direction.
How about some new tour dates?
I’m working with Sakamoto booking agency now for 2020 touring. Dates to be announced in early 2020.
Favourite new song at the moment, go!
My favorite new song is my latest single “Forget to Forget” .. go check it out now! 😉
What else do you have in store for 2019?
I will be enjoying some downtime for the rest of 2019 with my beautiful family.
Any last thoughts you’d like to share?
I’d just like to thank everyone, including Canadian Beats, for all the love in 2019. It’s truly appreciated. Also, Id like to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season and all the very best in 2020 and in the next decade!
Connect with Jason Benoit:
Website
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram