By Stephen Dafoe
Morinville – Canadian legend Charlie Major will be performing a midweek show at the Morinville Community Cultural Centre next week. Major is the recipient of seven Canadian Country Music Association awards as well as three Junos Described as more Mellencamp then Merle, Major’s lyrics have long championed the everyday blue collar hero. Through seven studio albums over a 20-year period, Major’s edgy style has continued to resonate with his fans.
Opening for Major is Morinville’s own singer / songwriter Justin Hogg.
Interview with Charlie Major
Morinville News: With seven studio albums, seven Canadian Country Music Association and three Juno awards, you have certainly earned your legendary status. For those who may not have been to a Charlie Major show, what can they expect?
Charlie Major: I tend to dance with the one that brought me – the folks who come out to the show are there to hear their favorites from over the years and we try not to disappoint.
MN: This summer will mark 20 years since the release of your first album – The Other Side. Over the past two decades you’ve remained true to your roots, championing the blue collar hero. What is it about the blue collar hero that still resonates with you?
CM: For one thing I think they make up the majority. They do most of the living, paying and dying in this world. They do it with a certain kind of pride – and where would we be without [them]?
MN: From your early days playing coffee houses in Ottawa to playing arenas alongside ZZ Top, you’ve certainly performed for audiences of varying size.
Do you find smaller venues like Morinville provide a little more intimate experience for you as a performer?
CM: I’ve enjoyed playing in every size of venue over the years and each one has its own form of intimacy. The smaller venues, like a theatre, perhaps offer the opportunity to converse and get a little closer with an audience – a bit more warmth.
MN: Your latest album was 2011’s On the Evening Side. Any plans to head back into the studio soon?
CM: It’s been 20 years since the first CD – The Other Side – and we’re just working on a retrospective CD that will cover songs from all those years with one or two new songs added. Looking forward to the future!
The Charlie Major concert takes place Feb. 20 at 7 p.m. at the Morinville Community Cultural Centre. Tickets are $35 and available at the Morinville Community Cultural Centre, Morinville Sobeys and through Tix on the Square.
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