Music Row

In this special crossover episode of The Music Row Podcast with Leake, host Jeff Leake welcomes back Canadian country powerhouse Dallas Smith (last on the show in April 2025) alongside pop/R&B icon Shawn Desman for their first joint appearance on the program. The two dive deep into their fresh collaboration “One Good Life”—Shawn’s debut country single and the first official team-up between the two artists.
Dallas and Shawn, who’ve been friends for years and came up in the industry around the same time, share how the song came together: Shawn reached out with the idea of blending their worlds, and Dallas jumped at the chance to merge country warmth, rock edge, and pop polish into an anthemic track about perspective, clarity, and living a grounded life.

Tim Hicks, one of Canada's most enduring and beloved country music stars, joins host Jeff Leake on this episode of the Music Row Podcast.
Hailing from St. Catharines, Ontario, Tim has built an impressive career since his 2012 breakout single "Get By," racking up 18 top 10 hits on the Canada Country chart, multiple Platinum and Gold certifications, CCMA Rising Star honors, and repeated wins as Male Artist of the Year at the Country Music Association of Ontario Awards. With high-energy anthems like "Hell Raisin' Good Time," the viral sensation "Stronger Beer," chart-toppers "What a Song Should Do" and "No Truck Song," and recent releases including "Going Somewhere," Tim delivers the perfect blend of gritty, fun-loving country rock that resonates with fans coast to coast.
In this candid conversation, Tim opens up about his journey from local bar gigs and open mics to headlining national tours, the inspiration behind his everyman songwriting, life on the road with and what's next—including his upcoming Going Somewhere Tour kicking off in spring 2026. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his music, this episode dives deep into the heart of Canadian country, the stories behind the hits, and why Tim remains a staple in the scene.
Tune in for laughs, insights, and plenty of good-time country vibes straight from one of the industry's most dynamic voices! 🎸🍻

This week's episode of the Music Row Podcast features Canadian country powerhouse Jade Eagleson in a heartfelt, down-to-earth conversation that traces his remarkable journey from rural roots to the bright lights of Nashville and beyond.
Hailing from Bailieboro (near Millbrook), Ontario, Jade opens up about growing up on his family's farm, where country music was woven into everyday life. Surrounded by his mom's singing, his grandfather's old records spinning classics like Hank Williams, and influences from legends like Alan Jackson, George Strait, Randy Travis, and Shania Twain, farm work and family gatherings shaped his authentic sound and deep appreciation for traditional country.
Jade shares the pivotal decision to chase his dreams, eventually moving to Nashville — the heart of Music City — to immerse himself in the songwriting scene. He recounts an eye-opening early experience at a writers round, where the raw talent, storytelling, and collaborative energy hit him hard, serving as a wake-up call and fueling his drive to hone his craft among the pros.
The conversation culminates in Jade reflecting on one of the biggest milestones of his career: stepping into the historic circle at the Grand Ole Opry for his debut (October 18, 2024), performing hits like "Rodeo Queen" and delivering an emotional tribute with "She Don’t Know." It's a bucket-list moment for the farm kid turned multi-platinum artist, complete with 335M+ global streams, #1 singles, and a sound that's proudly rooted in real country.
Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering Jade's music (including his latest album Do It Anyway), this episode is packed with inspiration, laughs, and stories that remind us why country music endures. Tune in now — grab your boots, pour a drink, and join us on Music Row! 🎸🇨🇦

In this heartfelt episode of the Music Row Podcast, host Jeff Leake sits down with Canadian country singer-songwriter Kelsi Mayne for an intimate conversation about life's highs, lows, and the music that emerges from it all.
Kelsi opens up about the painful end of a long-term relationship that unraveled after the wedding dress had already been purchased, sharing the raw emotions and personal growth that followed calling off the wedding. She also reflects on an unexpected new romance that brought its own share of drama, adding unexpected twists to her journey.
The discussion turns to her athletic past, as Kelsi credits her time running track and field in college—where she was a nationally ranked sprint-hurdler—for instilling the discipline and resilience that have fueled her music career. She explains how those lessons on the track translate to the grind of songwriting and performing as an independent artist.
Throughout the episode, Kelsi dives into the creative process, revealing how these experiences have inspired her latest songs. From heartbreak anthems to empowering tracks, she shares stories behind the music that's helping her move forward, including glimpses into her recent releases and what's coming next.
https://kelsimayne.com/home

In this heartfelt episode of On Music Row, Canadian country legend Gord Bamford sits down with host Joins Leake to unpack an unforgettable 2025. Gord discusses his touring business, the Bamford Foundation plus the possible pitfalls of playing some of Canada's major country festivals.