The Canadian Country Music Association® Launches Uncharted Country Podcast Series

DISCOVER AND REIMAGINE THE PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE OF COUNTRY MUSIC

Listen to Uncharted Country Now

Toronto, ON (September 6, 2024) – Today, the Canadian Country Music Association® (CCMA®) proudly announces the launch of Uncharted Country, a captivating three-part podcast series available now. Hosted by Morgan “MJ” James, Uncharted Country delves into the roots, evolution, and future of country music through engaging conversations with GRAMMY® nominees The War and Treaty, Steven Lee Olsen, and CCMA Award winner SACHA.

Through ongoing collaborative efforts between ADVANCE, Canada’s Black Music Business Collective, and the CCMA®, the organizations have implemented meaningful initiatives to foster diversity, inclusion, and greater representation within the music industry. During Country Music Week 2023, ADVANCE and the CCMA® produced the seminar series “Country Music: Past, Present, Future,” curated by MJ and ADVANCE, featuring The War and Treaty as key participants. The success of this panel highlighted the importance of these discussions, leading to the decision to expand the conversation into a podcast format. Recorded during the same week, Uncharted Country invites listeners to explore fresh perspectives on the genre’s diverse history and often-overlooked influences, connecting the past, present, and future through the voices of artists who have broken barriers and pushed boundaries.

Episode 1: The War and Treaty

In the first episode, host Morgan “MJ” James sits down with The War and Treaty to discuss the forgotten roots of country music and the traditional stylings that shape their sound. The episode uncovers the deep, often underappreciated influences that have contributed to the genre’s rich tapestry.

Episode 2: Steven Lee Olsen

Episode two features Steven Lee Olsen, who opens up about his diverse musical influences and early, eye-opening experiences in Nashville. The discussion also examines country music’s current sonic evolution, shedding light on how the genre continues to transform through new influences and artist innovations.

Episode 3: SACHA

In the final episode, SACHA and the panel explore the assumptions and barriers within the country music industry. They share their visions for the genre’s future, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and embracing diverse voices to continue evolving the narrative of country music.

The CCMA’s dedication to fostering change, with strong support from ADVANCE, has been instrumental in ensuring that diversity is no longer just an afterthought but an essential component of the industry’s growth.

For the latest CCMA® news, follow along at Facebook, Instagram, X, and YouTube or visit www.ccma.org.

For more on ADVANCE, please visit www.advancemusic.org, Instagram, or X and/or to subscribe for further communications please contact connect@advancemusic.org.

About the Canadian Country Music Association® (CCMA®)

Established in 1976, the CCMA is a membership-based, not-for-profit organization dedicated to the promotion and recognition of Canadian country music. Built upon the foundation to educate, elevate, and celebrate Canadian talent, the CCMA progressively heralds the spirit, community, and creativity that country music fosters through year-round initiatives, culminating every fall with Country Music Week and the Canadian Country Music Association Awards presented by TD. Sponsors of Country Music Week 2024 and the 2024 CCMA Awards presented by TD include FACTOR, Canada’s Private Radio Broadcasters, and the Government of Canada through the Department of Canadian Heritage’s “Canada Music Fund”.

ADVANCE Mission Statement

Driven by the heart, soul and sounds of Black voices across Canada’s music entertainment industry, ADVANCE, Canada’s Black Music Business Collective, helps foster an environment within the Canadian music industry that improves, promotes, and better retains Black employees and partners. The organization works to create conditions for long-term success by addressing racial equality and inclusivity through three areas: Advocacy, Mentorship, and Community Outreach.

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Media Contacts:

For the Canadian Country Music Association

Charlotte Thompson | Charlotte@RedUmbrellaPR.com

For ADVANCE

 Jamelia Campbell | jameliaanita@gmail.com