Tag Archives: welcome to the music

Marc Jordan: Biogrpahy and The Gasworks

marc jordan
marc jordan

Marc Jordan discussed his biography, “Rhythm of My Heart,” with Karim Kanji, highlighting the collaborative process with author Don Breithaupt and reflecting on his personal experiences, including challenges with dyslexia and substance use that shaped his artistic journey.

He shared stories from his early performances at The Gasworks, emphasizing its significance in his career and expressing concerns about the current viability of music venues. Jordan reminisced about Toronto’s vibrant music scene, particularly the role of Yonge Street in making live music accessible, while acknowledging the changes in artist support and promotion over the years.

He underscored the importance of authenticity in his songwriting, a principle recognized by his publishers, and noted that the biography serves as a way to share his life stories with his children, with the book available for purchase online and in local bookstores.


Insights on Biography and Music Industry Dynamics

In a conversation with Karim Kanji, Marc Jordan shared insights about his biography, which was written by Don Breithaupt. He recounted how revisiting his past, including his struggles with dyslexia and substance use, provided him with a new understanding of his life. Marc emphasized the importance of authenticity in art and mentioned that he offers advice to his son only when asked, acknowledging the generational differences in the music industry.

Memories of The Gasworks

In a discussion about The Gasworks, Marc Jordan recounted his early performances there, describing the fear he felt as a new musician. He noted that it was one of the first significant venues he played, which contributed to his growth as an artist. Karim Kanji and Marc also discussed the changes that have occurred at other venues.

The Evolution of Toronto’s Music Scene

Marc Jordan reflected on the historical importance of The Gasworks, noting it was a top venue where many great bands performed. He described the Yonge Street Strip as the heart of Toronto’s music scene, where clubs thrived due to their central location. Jordan shared personal memories of discovering music as a teenager, emphasizing the excitement of hearing live performances from artists like Ronnie Hawkins and David Clayton Thomas.

Insights on Biography and Music Career

Marc Jordan reflected on the writing of his biography, “Rhythm of My Heart,” emphasizing the joy of sharing his story with his family. He noted that his approach to songwriting has always been driven by personal meaning rather than commercial considerations, which his publishers recognized early on. Jordan appreciated the freedom he was given to create music authentically.

For more information on Marc Jordan’s biography.

More information on Lost Venues.

A look back with Steven Page

steven page
steven page

This episode was originally published in Feb 2024 on Welcome To The Music. 

Steven Page, co-founder and former frontman of the Barenaked Ladies, joins Karim Kanji and Gregg Tilston for a wide-ranging, heartfelt, and musically rich conversation. From his early days in Scarborough to his latest creative projects, Steven opens up about the music, the memories, and the moments that continue to shape his career.

In this captivating conversation, Steven Page dives deep into the journey that has defined his decades-long career. The discussion spans early musical influences, the evolution of the Barenaked Ladies, the birth of new collaborations, and the creative rebirth he has embraced in recent years.

Karim and Gregg explore the remarkable story behind Trans Canada Highwaymen’s Explosive Hits Vol. 1, a nostalgic and clever tribute to classic K-Tel compilation albums. Steven shares how the project came together, how the band picked the songs, and the unique challenges—and surprises—of creating an entire album remotely during the pandemic.

The episode also touches on the emotional milestones in Steven’s life, including the unforgettable moment he performed Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” at the memorial for the late Jack Layton.

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Bad Breed | Welcome To The Music

Toronto-based Bad Breed started out as a hard-edged combination of punk rock and 60s R&B. Inspired by the sounds of Stevie Wonder, Curtis Mayfield, Betty Davis and Led Zeppelin, the muscular funk, lightning-sharp guitar riffs and soulful songs of love and despair from their latest album are a testament to the transformative and ferocious power of love.

Original episode can be found at Welcome To The Music.

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