More inside:
Native Islander in good P.E.I. company as he hosts gala for 30th edition of the East Coast Music Awards
Comedian Jonathan Torrens talks with The Guardian’s Katie Smith about being the host of the East Coast Music Awards Gala. Turn to
Whether he’s recognized as J-Roc, Jonovision or “that guy who used to host Street Cents,” Jonathan Torrens has been a familiar face on the Canadian television scene for three decades.
This weekend, the Sherwood native will host the 30th edition of the East Coast Music Awards in Halifax.
Torrens, who first hosted the awards gala in Charlottetown in 2001, said he’s looking forward, once again, to stepping into the role, changing one notable thing from his past performance.
“I probably won’t wear a mock neck sweater this time,” said the comedian in a phone interview with The Guardian.
“It’s my chance to correct that wrong.”
Torrens said as a fan of music he’s really looking forward to the show, adding P.E.I. has a strong representation this year, with KINLEY, Jenn Grant, Rose Cousins and The East Pointers all earning multiple nominations.
“KINLEY is probably the thing that I’m most excited about,” he said.
“I know that with Hey Rosetta! she had an unbelievable run, but to see her get to step into the spotlight and have some solid real estate in this big event is really exciting.”
As well as the music, there is no shortage of politics and a couple of this year’s performances deal with controversial social issues.
“Music is always a mirror reflecting us back to ourselves at any given moment,” says Torrens, adding this year’s show echoes what’s happening around the world, including movements like #MeToo.
“I think it must. I think anything else would be dated and tone deaf. I am so proud to host this show for that very reason.”
For instance, KINLEY’s song “Microphone”, which depicts the true story about being raped after her high school prom, is nominated for song of the year and fan choice video of the year.
Multiple ECMA and Juno award-winning rapper Classified will also be on hand for a special performance of his new single, “Powerless,” which addresses issues of abuse, sexual assault and missing and murdered indigenous women and girls.
“There’s so much good music and so many powerful performances,” says Torrens.
“I just keep thinking any real estate I chew up is directly taking away from musicians, so I am social caulking to seal up the gaps between performances and awards and just keep it moving.”
Along with KINLEY’s total of four nominations, Islanders Rose Cousins, Jenn Grant and The East Pointers each earned eight, six and three nominations, respectively. There will also be nine Island bands performing during the event showcases.
Torrens said there’s something to be said about the talent that comes out of a small place.
“I think it’s a sense of community. You have to be supportive because there aren’t other options, you can’t afford to alienate people,” he said.
And there are other things to consider.
“Not to mention, just the isolation and the infuriation of the climate, so it’s a good place to hole up and hone your craft, for sure.”
Torrens said ECMA organizers have done a great job this year programming a show that represents the many genres and cultures across the Atlantic provinces
“I think when you put all of those elements that must be represented through a colander, what they’ve come up with as a rundown for the show is nothing short of amazing.”