Album of the Year winner Kissel touts power of song

TORONTO — Brett Kissel helped kick off the Canadian Country Music Association Awards on Sunday night by tipping his hat to the healing power of song.

The “Drink About Me” singer from Flat Lake, Alta., performed his hit single before pausing to recognize that this year’s awards show was unfolding in the most difficult of times.

“Lately, we’ve found ourselves living in a new world, and although some things may look a little different, one thing hasn’t changed at all, and that’s the music,” Kissel said as he opened the show.

“Music brings us all together it connects us. Music captures the words that speak to your heart and can tell the stories of your soul. It gives us strength. It gives us hope.”

The CCMA Awards also featured early performances by the Reklaws and Tenille Townes.

But the show looked even slicker than usual since it was pre-taped last month in two different countries.

Portions were recorded at the Burl’s Creek Event Grounds in Oro-Medonte, Ont., near Barrie, which is where the Boots & Hearts Music Festival usually is held.

Other performances were taped from the rooftop of a Nashville hotel with the city’s skyline in the background.

Winners included James Barker Band who picked up single of the year for their dancy chart-topping country-pop track “Keep it Simple.” Tenille Townes, from Grande Prairie, Alta., who took home the female artist award for the second consecutive year.

The Washboard Union walked away double winners, picking up the group or duo award for the third consecutive year. The Vancouver-based trio had already won roots album of the year for their release

“Everbound” ahead of the broadcast. Tenille Arts won the rising star award. Major winners were as follows: Entertainer of the Year: Dallas Smith Single of the Year: “Keep it Simple” by James Barker Band

Album of the Year: “Now or Never” by Brett Kissel

Group or Duo: The Washboard Union Rising Star: Tenille Arts

Male Artist of the Year: Brett Kissel Female Artist of the Year: Tenille Townes Fans’ Choice: Brett Kissel