New Brunswick-based country artist Laurie LeBlanc is nominated for Francophone Recording of the Year at the 2023 East Coast Music Awards for his double EP, Long Weekend.
The EP is comprised of six songs in English and six in French. Working with top producer Jason Barry once again, Laurie crafted the songs to convey a feel-good summer vibe in both languages.
Listen to Long Weekend below and learn more about Laurie LeBlanc via our mini-interview.
First off, care to introduce yourself to our readers?
Hi, my name is Laurie LeBlanc!
I’m a full-time country music singer-songwriter from Bouctouche, NB
I have recorded eight studio albums in both French and English.
Tell us a bit about your newest release.
“Floatin’” is a song about love at first sight on a beautiful summer beach day. This track was actually a perfect fit to include in my Long Weekend double EP summer vibe album.
You’re nominated for an East Coast Music Award this year. Is this your first time being nominated?
I actually received my first ECMA nomination in 2021 with my When It’s Right It’s Right album. This will be my fourth ECMA nomination but my first in the francophone category. My new album, Long Weekend, is a double EP divided equally between English and French songs.
Are you performing anywhere during the festivities from May 3-7? If so, where?
We are doing two showcases during the 35th East Coast Music Week.
Friday, May 5th – 10:52 am at the Halifax Ballroom (private – for promoters only)
Friday, May 5th –9:40 pm at the Nova Scotia Ballroom (public)
Both showcases are happening at the Halifax Marriott Harbourfront Hotel
Are there any specific events through the weekend that you are excited to check out?
Yes, we will attend the ECMA Awards on Thursday and the red carpet since I’m nominated. We’re also scheduled for one-on-one meetings with different promoters. We also plan on attending various conferences and showcases to discover new artists.
If you could work with any fellow East Coast artist, who would you choose?
Oh, so many talented East Coast artists to choose from!!!!
George Canyon would be a great artist to work with.
For the new generation, Justin Fancy is a very talented artist that would be fun to collaborate with.
Do you have any upcoming shows besides the ECMAs to tell us about?
We will be touring in NB and Quebec this year with our brand new Long Weekend show. I’m excited to perform during the YQM Country Concert in Dieppe, NB featuring Keith Urban, Morgan Wallen, and Thomas Rhett.
Please check out my website for my complete show list www.laurieblanc.com
What’s next for you in 2023?
After our busy summer tour, I will head to the studio to record two Christmas songs. In November, I will be working on our 8th Annual “Noel en Acadie” Christmas show which I also host. This year, the event will take place at the Moncton Casino NB.