Donnie Wallace: For The First Time
Donnie
Wallace's debut CD on Aeroplane Records is making a lot of noise in Canada and
overseas, and it looks as if he's on the brink of kickin' things up a notch.
Filled with an eager energy that can only be found on a freshman release, the project is packed with engaging melodies and memorable hooks. No doubt country radio will find more than one of them appealing. In fact "Here Comes Love", the first single release, has been climbing the EMS (European Media Services) chart, and is now sitting at #17 amongst such familiar names as David Frizzell and Ernie Ashworth. It's also #50 on the Top 100 CanCountry chart as well as an impressive #1 on fan-voted That's Country singles chart.
The newcomer's appearance on the Canadian country music scene has not gone unnoticed in industry circles as well. The Trenton, Ontario native is heading down to The Golden Music Awards, being held June 17th in Nashville. He's not only been honored with a request to perform, but has garnered mention in four categories: Best New Artist, Best Single (Here Comes Love), Best Album (For The First Time) and Canadian Artist of the Year.
Although he seems to have arrived on the scene almost overnight, a career in country music is something Donnie Wallace has been determined to achieve almost his entire life. His love of country music began early, when as a young child he imitated Elvis, George Jones and Hank Williams after teaching himself how to play guitar. Blessed with the gift of being able to both entertain and touch people with his music, Donnie left his small hometown in Ontario to follow his dream, after five years of struggling as a music teacher. Chance and determination would have him meeting up with Canadian rock group Glass Tiger member, Michael Hanson, who recognized Donnie's potential immediately.
Hanson eventually ended up as producer on 'For The First Time', as well as contributing his songwriting talents on ten of the eleven tracks. Instrumentally the album is supported and lifted by the talents of Don Read ('King of the Fiddle'), John Dymond (bass) and Paul Chapman (guitar). Donnie's strength seems to be in uptempo deliveries and highlights of the album include the upbeat "Love Trip" and "New York City Cowgirl". The album's ace-in-the-hole lies in the last track of the album, and was written by Donnie's late friend, Billy Broadbent. 'Just About Prob'ly' is a solid, pure country romp that showcases Donnie's vocal range and abilities at their best. If released as a single, this song will undoubtedly get the full attention of country radio.
When all's said and done, Michael Hanson's gut instincts are proven flawless. Take a listen to "For The First Time' because we can almost guarantee this won't be the last time you hear this young man's name.
June 2001 -
Laurie Joulie - Take
Country Back
Official Website: www.donniewallace.com