The history, historic sites and heritage places in and around the Nicola Valley including Merritt, BC, Canada.

Artists-Galleries-Art, Attractions, Entertainment - Music, History, Merritt, Merritt Murals, Nicola Valley

Tim McGraw – Merritt BC Canada Murals Country Music Artist

Merritt BC Canada Murals

Featured Country Music Musician – Tim McGraw

“Chase your dreams but always know the road that’ll lead you home again.” Tim McGraw

Merritt BC Canada Murals – Tim McGraw is one of the Merritt Murals in the Nicola Valley located in downtown Merritt BC Canada. There are over 20 murals in downtown Merritt BC which is also the Country Music Capital of Canada.

Downtown Merritt BC is also the home of the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame. Today, I will be sharing with you some information about the Merritt BC Canada Murals and country music superstar Tim McGraw.

Merritt BC Murals Downtown Merritt Tim McGraw

Michelle Bacon (Experience Nicola Valley) / Mural Painted by Michelle Loughery

The Story of Tim McGraw Before The Merritt BC Canada Murals

Country music artist Tim McGraw wasn’t always interested in music. As a matter of fact he originally thought that he would be a professional baseball payer. Unfortunately, during his college years he injured his knee and could no longer pursue that career. Which is a good thing for us Country Music Fans.

Baseball To Country Music

He learnt to play guitar during his college years, after and during baseball. Although, at times, his roommates often hid his guitar claiming that he was hard on the ears. Subsequently his determination never wavered. He would still play and perform for money.

In 1989 Tim’s hero Keith Whitley died. As a result, when he heard the news, Tim dropped out of college and moved to Nashville to pursue a career in country music.

Accomplishments of Tim McGraw

There is no shortage of amazing songs written and performed by Country Music Artist Tim McGraw. In short some of my favorite country songs are “Don’t Take the Girl”, “I Like it, I Love it”, “It’s your Love”, “Just to See You Smile” and “Red Rag Top”.

Tim has accomplished so much since his first demo single was released in 1991. At that time, the single “What Room Was the Holiday In” didn’t perform well on the charts. In fact, his first self titled album “Tim McGraw” released in 1991 did not resonate well with the country music fans. But persistence always wins.

Merritt BC Canada Murals Honor Country Music Hits

McGraw’s second album entitled “Not a Moment Too Soon” released in 1994 was much more successful. His single “Indian Outlaw” not only raced to the top of the charts, it also created a lot of backlash from people who found it offensive to Native Americans. This only helped the sales of the single. Since then Tim has racked up many different awards over the years.

Platinum Albums

1994	CMT	Male Video Artist of the Year
	Academy of Country Music	Album of the Year
		Top Male Vocalist
	Billboard Awards	Top New Country Artist
	Billboard Magazine	Top New Country Album
1995	American Music Awards	Favorite New Country Artist
1997	Billboard Magazine	Single of the Year “It’s Your Love”
	CMT	Video of the Year “It’s Your Love”
		Male Artist of the Year
	CMA	Vocal Event “It’s Your Love”
	Billboard Awards	Country Single of the Year “Just to See You Smile”
	CMA	Album of the Year “Everywhere”
1998	Academy of Country Music	Single of the Year “It’s Your Love”
		Song of the Year “It’s Your Love”
		Video of the Year “It’s Your Love”
		Top Vocal Event “It’s Your Love”
1999	Academy of Country Music	Male Vocalist
		Vocal Collaboration “Just to Hear You Say that You Love Me”
	CMA	Male Vocalist Album of the Year “A Place in the Sun”
2000	National Father Hood Initiative	Father of the Year
	Academy of Country Music	Male Vocalist
	Billboard Awards	Male Artist of the Year
	CMA	Male Vocalist
2001	American Music Awards	Favorite Male Country Artist
	Grammy Awards	Best Country Collaboration with Vocals “Let’s make love”
	CMA	Entertainer of the Year
	Billboard Awards	Country Artist
		Male Country Artist
		Album Artist Country
		Country Single Artist
		Country Album “Greatest Hits”
2002	American Music Awards	Best Country Album “Set This Circus Down”
		Favorite Male Country Artist
2003	American Music Awards	Favorite Country Male Artist
	Radio Music Awards	Country Male Artist
	American Music Awards	Favorite Country Male Artist
2004	People’s Choice Awards	Favorite Country Male Artist
	Radio Music Awards	Country Male Artist
	CMA	Single of the Year “Live Like You Were Dying”
2005	American Music Awards	Album of the Year “Live Like You Were Dying”
		Best Male Country Artist
	Academy of Country Music	Song of the Year “Live Like You Were Dying”
		Single of the Year “Live Like You Were Dying”
	Peoples Choice Awards	Favorite Country Male Artist
	Grammy Awards	Best Male Country Vocal Performance “Live Like You Were Dying”
	CMT	Most Inspiring Video “Live Like You Were Dying”
2006	Peoples Choice Awards	Top Male Performer
	Grammy Awards	Best Country Collaboration with Vocals “Live We Never Loved at All” with Faith Hill
2012	CMA	Musical Event of the Year “Feel like a Rock Star” with Kenny Chesney
2013	Brits Country Music Association	International song of the Year “Highway Don’t Care” with Taylor Swift and Keith Urban
2014	People’s Choice Awards	Country Music Icon
2016	CMT Music Awards	Video of the Year “Humble and Kind”

The Country Songs Keep On Coming

Some of Tim’s best songs include “It’s Your Love”, “Humble and Kind”, “Live Like you Were Dying”, “I Like it, I Love it” and “Highway Don’t Care” just to name a few.

Tim’s 1994 album “Not a Moment Too Soon” and his 2000 “Greatest Hits” album are both 6x Platinum. Together with “Not A Moment Too Soon” which went #1 in the first week on the charts. Likewise, “All I Want” released in 1995 reached 3x Platinum.

Family Life

McGraw was born in Delhi , Louisiana, USA on May 1 1967. He grew up thinking his father was Horace Smith. In the light of finding his birth certificate Tim learned his Father was really Tug McGraw. In short, he was only 11 years old when finding this out. He eventually got to meet his real father but it wasn’t until he was 18 that they started to form a closer relationship.

Family Is Important

In 1996 Tim McGraw and Faith Hill married and had 3 beautiful girls. As a result Tim’s desire to be a good father and to have a regular family became priority number one. Consequently, Tim coaches his girl’s baseball and basketball teams. Ultimately, the family loves to spend time on their 200 acre ranch just outside Nashville. Highlights include bonfires in the back forty, hang out on tailgates, pick guitars and having a few beers.

“It’s the most relaxing place in the world” Tim McGraw

Not only a Country Artist

Tim has done a number of movies over the years. Firstly, he performed in a movie called “Black Cloud”. Secondly, in 2006, he played Rob McLaughlin in “Flicka”. A role he didn’t really want to do but after reading the script he couldn’t say no.

Flicka Movie Staring Tim McGraw

“Flicka” is a movie about a young teenager who dreams of one day taking over her fathers (McGraw) ranch. Subsequently she tames a young mustang which her father sells. In conclusion she schemes to win a dangerous horse race in order to win back Flicka.

“I didn’t want to play a rancher. I didn’t want to have a cowboy hat on, I wanted o get away from that in the things I do. But, I read the script and fell in love with it. As hard as I tried to say no, I couldn’t.” Tim McGraw

Lastly, a few of his other movies include “The Kingdom” in 2007, The “Blind Side” in 2009, “Country Song” in 2010, as well as, a prominent role in “Tomorrowland” with George Clooney in 2015.

Merritt BC Murals

In downtown Merritt BC Canada there are many amazing Country Artist Murals. Together, with the “Walk of Stars”, they have become one of Canada’s biggest outdoor art walking tour. While you are here checking out this mural why don’t you take a moment and head over to the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame.

The Merritt Mural Project was created in 2005. The Merritt BC Murals were part of a successful program called, the “Merritt Youth Mural Project”. A project designed for working with local young artists and “ youth at risk”. Merritt Murals were painted by muralist Michelle Loughery.

Walk The Merritt Murals

It’s such a neat thing to be able to step back in time while reading about the inductees. But, on your way you can check out some of the other Merritt Murals in the Nicola Valley. Also, take some time and have a bite to eat at one of the great coffee shops or restaurants in Downtown Merritt BC.

Lastly, you can find the Merritt BC Canada Mural – Tim McGraw at 2151 Coutlee Ave on the side of the Copper Valley Mechanical building.

Walk of Stars

Moreover, on your digital tour of Merritt BC Canada Murals you can also have a look at the over 100+ “Walk of Stars” around Downtown Merritt. There is also one food print, can you figure out who it belongs to? The stars also have QR codes.

Merritt BC Canada Walk of Stars – Tim McGraw

Merritt BC Canada Murals are such an amazing part of our community. In addition we “Merrittonians” love and are very proud to be the Canadian Country Music Capital. More importantly, being able to share these Country Music Artist Murals with everyone who comes here to visit, or by you sharing these blogs about them makes me feel very fortunate.

In conclusion you can follow Tim McGraw on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and his web page.

To sum it all up there really are so many of his songs that I love. Which of Tim’s songs are your favorites? Comment below and let us know.

Featured Country Music Musician – Tim McGraw in Merritt BC

Hall of Fame

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Travel Website

** Information resources include Tim McGraw website, Wikipedia and social media pages.

by Michelle Bacon

Attractions, Canada, Entertainment - Music, Events & Festivals, History, Merritt, Merritt Murals, Nicola Valley

Casey Clarke – Merritt Downtown Walking Tour

Casey Clarke Country Music Television and Radio

Merritt BC Murals in the Nicola Valley

An on air and TV personality that has been a great ambassador and friend of Merritt BC Canada

The Merritt BC Murals in the Nicola Valley feature a country music personality named Casey Clarke. A name sitting near the top of the list in the country music world of television and radio. If you love listening to country music it is a safe bet you know who Casey Clarke is.

The Start Of The Broadcasting Career

Casey was born and raised in Edmonton Alberta, Canada. It was here on the prairies, growing up, where Casey found his calling in broadcasting. Casey Clarke started his television and radio career at a very early age too. Radio first came calling for Casey Clarke in Westlock, Alberta at CFOK Radio Station. Soon later he was behind the mic with Mountain FM Whistler/Squamish BC. Everyone who knows Casey could see that Casey’s broadcasting career was off and running.

Melvina White (Experience Nicola Valley) / Mural Painted by Michelle Loughery

Casey’s next stop was Vancouver, BC, Canada where he jumped on board with “The Satellite Radio Network” and was syndicated on 71 radio stations across Canada. Followed later by an offer to join the team at Silk FM at which time Casey made the move to Kelowna, BC, Canada. Casey took a liking to his radio career and kept moving forward. He was once heard saying,

“This is such a dynamic field filled with unbelievable challenges!”

The Television Career Begins For Casey Clarke

1997 took Casey Clarke from Kelowna, BC to Calgary, Alberta, Canada to join the Country Music Television show known as CMT. Clarke served as Director of Programming at both CMT Canada and Country 95.3 (Hamilton/Toronto-Canada’s most listened to Country Station). While at 95.3 he organized Canada’s largest free outdoor Country show every Canada Day.

“The face of CMT” (Country Music Television) according to some was Casey Clarke)

Casey’s 15 year radio stint has earned him the title, “the face” of CMT. Casey Clarke is one of the most recognizable personalities in Canada in the country music industry.

Casey Clarke Awards and Credits

In 2009. The Country Music Association World International Awards, honored Casey Clarke with the broadcaster of the year award. This award recognizes outstanding achievement, by a radio broadcaster or syndicated radio reporter. The award recognizes that Casey has made important contributions for the development of country music, in his/her country outside the United States.

Back to Radio

“The Casey Clarke Show” as well as “The Casey Clarke Countdown” is syndicated on radio stations across Canada. As a result they are both active in major and secondary markets. Casey hosts a variety of artist album specials on national radio as well. He is also the main radio personality conducting onsite interviews with the headlining artists, at all major Canadian Country Music Festivals. As well as his radio programs. Clarke’s company Casey Clark Productions also co-produced “The Chevy Cross Canada Countdown” which Clarke hosted for seven seasons.

In 2012 a show on CMT that Casey was involved with, “Employee Of The Week”, won the”Program of The Year Award” from the Canadian Country Music Association.

Casey Clarke’s Merritt Mural

The on-air and TV personality has been a great ambassador and host for Merritt BC Canada. He has commanded the stage of The Merritt Mountain Music Festival, as well as, the stage for some Walk of Stars Gala events. He has been a staple at the “Rockin River Music Fest” since 2015. Casey will grace the stage again at the 2019 Rockin’ River Fest.

Casey has continued to support the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame for many years. It was his dedication to the country music scene in Merritt BC Canada that earned him his space on a wall forming part of the Merritt BC Murals. Casey Clarke’s Mural can be seen at 2015 Nicola Street. He is on the wall with his colleague, and country music singer”Beverly Mahood”.

Merritt BC Canada Murals

The Merritt Mural Project started in 2005. Furthermore, the Merritt BC Murals was part of a successful program called, the “Merritt Youth Mural Project”. A project designed for working with local young artists and “ youth at risk”. Muralist Michelle Loughery painted the Merritt Murals.

Still Connecting with Country’s Biggest Stars

Casey is currently the Program Director for the Morning Show for Stingray Country 100.7 in Kelowna, BC. He has held this position since January, 2013. Radio and Event Host Casey Clarke shows no signs of slowing down.

Follow Casey Clarke on his website, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.

Merritt Mural Downtown Digital Walking Tour

Hall of Fame

Blog

Travel Website

** Information resources includes Casey Clarke website, and social media pages.

by Melvina White

Artists-Galleries-Art, Attractions, Entertainment - Music, History, Merritt, Merritt Murals, Nicola Valley

Canadian Country Music Legends in Merritt BC

Country Music Legends – Merritt BC Murals

Hank Snow, Wilf Carter (Montana Slim), Orval Prophet, and Catherine McKinnon

“I know when I was little, people would say, ‘What are you going to be when you grow up?’ And my first answer was, ‘I’m going to be a singer, an actor, a nurse, and Barbara Ann Scott.” Catherine McKinnon

Merritt Murals and the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame recognizes four Canadian Country Music legends in Merritt, BC, Canada. During the early years of country music they – Hank Snow, Wilf Carter (Montana Slim), Orval Prophet, and Catherine McKinnon – were at the forefront of the Canadian country music scene. As a result, all four country music legends grace a wall together, as a Merritt Mural, in Downtown Merritt.

Tania Stewart (Experience Nicola Valley) / Mural Painted by Michelle Loughery

Short & Brief History of these 4 Legendary Country Music Artists

Hank Clarence Eugene Snow

(May 9, 1914 – December 20, 1999) Liverpool, Nova Scotia, Canada. Hank was well known for his lavish colourful sequin-studded suits. His career covered six decades from 1936–1996 spanning 50 years. During which he produced the self-penned number-one hit, “I’m Moving On”. After a long and successful career Hank Snow was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame. the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame and the Nova Scotia Music Hall of Fame. To clarify, the induction into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame was not until 1985.

“I’ve had about 140 albums released, and I’ve done everything I wanted to do, ” Hank Snow.

Wilfred Arthur Charles Carter

(December 18, 1904 – December 5, 1996), Port Hilford, Nova Scotia, Canada. Wilf Carter may be better known for his nicknames “Montana Slim” and the “Yodeling Cowboy”.

Carter was Canada’s first country music star and widely acknowledged as the father of Canadian country music.

At the age of 86, Montana Slim made his last concert tour called, ” The Last Round-up Tour”. As a result the country music legend played his last shows tin Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Ontario, and Manitoba. Wilf Carter was later inducted into Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame in 1984.

Orval William Prophet

(August 1922 – 4 January 1984) Edwards, Ontario, Canada. Orval Prophet was among the first Canadian country music performers to achieve a career reaching international borders. As a result of his mass appeal Orval was inducted into the Canadian Country Music Association Hall of Honour and in 1989 into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame. In short, his most recognized songs include, “Going Back to Birmingham” and “Judgement Day Express”.

Catherine McKinnon

(Born May 14, 1944) During the 1960’s Catherine McKinnon was a Canadian actress, as well as, fast becoming one of the leading country/pop singers in Canada. Her acting career saw her in productions like the Turvey, and “The Wizard of Oz”. Meanwhile her singer career won her a “Lifetime Achievement Award” at the East Coast Music Awards in 2012. Above all… she had a history of awards including Top Female Singer at the RPM Awards (1965) and Top Female Singer at the RPM Awards (1965).

More Canadian Country Music Legend Facts

First, there is the Hank Snow Home Town Museum located in Liverpool Nova Scotia, Canada. The venue celebrates Hanks life and work.
Additionally, there is Hank’s foundation called the International Foundation For Prevention Of Child Abuse.
Meanwhile Orval Prophet was the first Canadian country music artist to record in a Nashville studio.
Further more, during World War II, Prophet performed for the injured soldiers in Ottawa, Canada. Most importantly, or should we say most impressively, was the fact that Orval walked 38 kilometres (24 mi) from his home to the hospital to entertain the soldiers.

Hank Snow – Mural Painted by Michelle Loughery

Merritt BC Canada Murals

Enjoy & Visit Merritt, BC, Canada

Downtown Merritt provides visitors a unique experience when exploring our community. For instance, why not follow up your sightseeing experience by browsing some of our local shops, cafes, historical pubs, as well as, Merritt’s Signature Attraction, the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame. Certainly, try to make some time to take in the Merritt Walk of Stars too. Each plaque features a hand print (and yes, there is one footprint), as well as, includes signatures of every featured country music performer.

Inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.

Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame honours country music artists, and broadcasters, living or deceased. The country music venue is located in Downtown Merritt BC at 2025 Quilchena Avenue. That is to say that the music venue includes extensive biographical information on Canadian country music inductees. Lastly, the country music attraction is open year-round for custom tours, as well as, it is open to the public on seasonally adjusted hours.

Merritt Canada Downtown Mural Walking Tour – Nicola Valley

Accommodations, Adventures (Summer), Artists-Galleries-Art, Attractions, Businesses, Entertainment - Music, Events & Festivals, History, Hotels - Motels, First Nations, Merritt, Merritt Murals, Nicola Valley, Youth

Art in Merritt BC – The Chair Walk

The Chair Walk, Merritt BC

July 10, 2019 to August 7, 2019

“Chairs like you have never seen before”

Art in Merritt BC. Art in Merritt comes in all forms, shapes and sizes. There are art galleries for you to enjoy, craft markets where many different artists participate, as well as, various venues with live entertainment. Locals and visitors will also enjoy the “Chair Walk”, the latest addition to the art experience while exploring Merritt BC Canada.

How does the Chair Walk Work?

The Chair Walk is modeled after a self-guided walking tour. Many communities provide self guided art walks including Merritt and the Nicola Valley. The Chair Walk will soon be one of the many art experiences to enjoy alongside the Merritt Murals, Walk Of Stars and many others.

However, one should know, the Chair Walk is different than many other art exhibits because it is a fund raiser for the Nicola Valley Community Arts Council and the Nicola Valley Community Theatre Society . The Chair Walk has some unique twists and turns that are not found in your every-day conventional Art Walk. It will be well worth the walk.

The Chair Walk is an army of community minded artists coming together for a good cause by donating their time and talents to producing some amazing art creations in the form of chairs. While the basis of the work is a common chair, there is nothing common about the finished results. But hold on! That is all we can tell you about it right now because it is a surprise. You will have to come to Merritt BC Canada this summer and take the walking tour to see the collection of creative chair masterpieces.

What will the chairs look like?

The Business Community is on board.

Of course, all this effort by the artists would be for naught if the businesses did not see this as a valuable event, not only for themselves, but for the whole town in fostering art in Merritt. You will find that the interesting thing is the large variety of businesses involved. There are flower shops, restaurants, auto parts dealers, a bike shop, sportswear, gift shops and many others for you to visit. All with their own versions of chair art.

Making Money for Art in Merritt, BC

Whereas the artists and business are crucial, you will be the ones to determine the success of this event.

Each chair will be the subject of a silent auction

However, if you are not going to bid on a chair you can still help the cause. Each chair will have a piggy bank placed nearby where you can make a donation. As a side note, the banks are fun to see as they come in all sizes and shapes too.

“Families, children, teens, seniors, singles, tourists, and couples are all encouraged to support this event as it will not only be a fun summer activity but also help make Merritt become a better community in which to live.” says Team Leader for the Chair Project, Shirley

Art in Merritt is worth the effort

The Chair Walk will give you a great introduction to our wonderful little City. While you travel to each venue you will pass by other attractions that might interest you, such as the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame.

In addition, if you are into museums visit the Nicola Valley Museum and Archives. You will find great information on the local history including the Indigenous peoples of the region. You can also take in the many murals of the country stars that have played at our annual summer music fest.

The Merritt Murals are another example of art in Merritt that is on public display. There are said to around 20+ murals depicting country music stars. All painted by Michelle Loughery.

Accommodations Galore!

While experiencing the Chair Walk you may find time flies by fast. There are fifteen art sites spread out around town. Therefore, if you are from out of town you will want to consider staying over night. Accommodations in Merritt are varied from first class hotels to camping in the wilderness.

What to expect with art in Merritt

You will see some amazing creations, you will feel the small town experience and you could win a prize at the same time. Just get your passport stamped at all fifteen venues and you will be entered into the draw. You will walk away feeling proud that you participated in the Chair Walk in Merritt.

Chair Walk – Art in Merritt BC Canada

by Tom Reynolds

Artists-Galleries-Art, Attractions, History, Merritt, Merritt Murals

Carrie Underwood – Country Music Artist – Merritt Murals

Downtown Walking Tour Merritt Murals

Featured Country Music Musician : Carrie Underwood

“Singing is just a feeling set to music.” Carrie Underwood

Let me introduce you to Carrie Underwood – a featured country music artist and Merritt BC Mural. The Nicola Valley murals are located in the “Canadian Country Music Capital of Canada”, which we all know as Merritt BC Canada. Welcome!

This current walking tour mural initiative is a group effort between Experience Nicola Valley and Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame. Carrie Underwood, a featured Merritt BC Mural, got her start in the country music industry after winning American Idol in 2005. As a result of her win, Carrie rocketed up the popularity charts and quickly became one of the biggest country music stars worldwide.

Michelle Bacon (Experience Nicola Valley) / Mural Painted by Michelle Loughery

American Idol

After her win on the show American Idol Carry released her first album, “Some Hearts”. As a result the album soared up the charts and became a multi-platinum success. Subsequently, the country music album won numerous awards including a Grammy, as well as, awards from the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music.

In 2008 Carrie was inducted into the Grand Ole Opry and has co-hosted the CMA Awards alongside Brad Paisley every year since then.

In 1991 her single “Inside your Heaven” eclipsed the top of the pop billboard charts. Consequently, her second single “Jesus Take the Wheel” also reached top honors on the country billboard charts. Her songs won AMC and CMA awards for Single of the Year. She also won Best Female Country Vocal Performance and Best New Artist at the Grammy’s!

2007 Carrie won a couple more Grammy’s for her single “Before he Cheats”. That same year she released another country music album “Carnival Ride” which had several number one chart topping hits like “All American Girl” and “Last Name”.

“Carrie Underwood currently holds the American Idol record for highest selling album sales in the United States with over 13 million copies sold.”

Carrie Underwood Induction into Grand Ole Opry

To many in the country music industry it is a dream to become part of the Grand Ole Opry. Likewise, it was no different for Underwood. Carrie was honored to be inducted into the Grand Ole Opry by Garth Brooks in 2008. In short, this honour, recognized her as the youngest person to ever receive this prestigious honour.

2009-2012

Underwood won another Grammy in 2009 for her song “Last Name”. Just before the CMA’s that year she released her next album “Play On.” The result earned her some chart topping singles including “Cowboy Casanova” “Temporary Home” and “Undo it.”

May of 2012 she released another mind blowing chart topper “Blown Away.” This sold more than 1.4 million copies over one year. The album “Blown Away” also produced other hits including “Good Girl” and “Two Black Cadillacs”

2013-2017

Carrie Underwood’s interest goes beyond country music. In 2013 she took over from Faith Hill performing the weekly Sunday Night Football theme song “Waiting All Day for Sunday Night.” Underwood then went on to do other work in TV like the live retelling of “The Sound of Music.”

In 2014 Carrie went on to release her greatest hits album entitled “Decade #1.” Her new song on the album, “Something in the Water”, earned her another Grammy for Best Solo Country Artist.

“Storyteller” her next studio album was released in 2015. In this album there were some hits like “Smoke Break” as well as “Heart Beat”, “Church Bells” and “Dirty Laundry”. It was soon after, in 2016, that Carrie kicked off her Storyteller Tour.

A Bounce Back For Carrie Underwood

The Oklahoma Hall of Fame inducted Carrie in November of 2017 after her tour ended and the CMA’s were finished. Just two days after the CMA Awards, Carrie fell outside her home. At first it was reported that she had suffered a broken wrist and some cuts and abrasions. However, it was later discovered she received 40-50 stitches to her face.

Although it took some time to heal she was soon back in the spotlight. April 15, 2018 she was back on stage performing her new song “Cry Pretty” at the ACM Awards. It was such a powerful performance. As a result of her performance she received a standing ovation from the audience.

A Star Was Born – The Younger Years

Carrie Underwood was born on March 10, 1983 in Muskogee, Oklahoma. Carrie was raised on her family’s farm and, to this day, holds very fond memories of her time on the farm.

“Growing up in the county, I enjoyed things like playing on dirt roads, climbing trees, catching little woodland creatures and, of course singing.” Carrie Underwood

Underwood attended Northeastern State University after graduating from high school. Carrie majored in broadcast journalism and not singing as she decided to put it on hold. But that did not last long. It was during her senior year in 2004 that she decided to try out for American Idol.

Later Years – Family Life

On July 10, 2010 Carrie married professional hockey player Mike Fisher. She and Mike announced the would be welcoming their first child in 2015. Aug 2018 Carrie announced they were expecting their second child.

“Mike, Isaiah and I are absolutely over the moon and excited to be adding another fish to our pond.” Carrie Underwood

Merritt BC Murals

In 2007 Carrie Underwood came to Merritt BC Canada and played on the main stage of the Merritt Mountain Music Festival (now called the Rockin’ River Music Fest). During that year the Carrie Underwood Merritt BC Mural was painted. It is located at 2101 Quilchena Ave in Merritt BC Canada.

Downtown Attractions

Merritt BC Canada is home of the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame. It’s a must to put on your list of places to check out. The Hall of Fame has many great attractions and items that have been donated by various country music stars and industry insiders.

Downtown Merritt has a bevvy of small coffee shops and restaurants. Have a bite to eat at one of our great eating establishments. Looking for gifts and souvenirs? I would suggest taking a browse through any of the many local shops. Many of them feature some amazing products from our local artisans.

I hope you enjoy the Carrie Underwood – Merritt BC Mural and have a look at others via walking and scanning the QR Codes to read about each star. These Murals are truly an amazing outdoor art exhibit.

For more on Carrie Underwood you can follow her on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and her website here.

Downtown Walking Tour Merritt Murals

Hall of Fame

Blog

Travel Website

** Information resources include Carrie Underwood website, Wikipedia and social media pages.

by Michelle Bacon

Artists-Galleries-Art, Attractions, Canada, Entertainment - Music, History, Merritt, Merritt Murals

Carolyn Dawn Johnson – Canadian Country Music Artist

Merritt BC Murals – Carolyn Dawn Johnson

Featured Country Music Musician : Carolyn Dawn Johnson

“I’m going for the big picture” Carolyn Dawn Johnson

The Merritt BC Murals attraction includes Canadian country music singer Carolyn Dawn Johnson. She is one of 25 + Canadian Country Music Murals located throughout the community of Merritt, BC, Canada in the Nicola Valley. But here, at this mural in front of you, I am going to tell you a little about Carolyn Dawn Johnson.

Carolyn Dawn Johnson – Merritt BC Murals

Carolyn Dawn Johnson played at the Merritt Mountain Music Festival (now called the Rockin’ River Country Music Fest) in 2002 and again in 2006. Johnson was born and raised in Alberta, Canada. At the age of 5 she was singing in church and started taking piano lessons from the pastors wife.

At one point in her life she steered away from country music. But luckily for country music fans, Carolyn finally found her way back to the stage and calls that period of her life, that hiatus from country music, “a stain in her heart”.

country music mural Carolyn Dawn Johnson Merritt BC

Michelle Bacon (Experience Nicola Valley) / Mural Painted by Michelle Loughery

The Songs Of A Canadian Country Singer

Many a country music fan of Carolyn Dawn Johnson know her best for her songs like “Complicated”, “Georgia”, and “I don’t want you to go”.

Carolyn also has two children, Abigail and Bennett. In one of Carolyn’s videos you can watch as she and her daughter Abigail sing a duet (story book style) that she wrote with Stella ladies.

Life Of Carolyn Dawn Johnson

Carolyn Dawn Johnson was born on April 30, 1971 in Grand Prairie Alberta. She had many influences growing up. Her parents would play country music records while later in life she listened to many other artists and genres. Some included ABBA, Fleetwood Mac, Charley Pride and Marty Stewart.

At 5 years old she started taking piano lessons from the pastors wife at her church. Then in high school she learned to play the flute, saxophone and clarinet. Because her teacher Evangeline Theissen kept sending her books about piano, she continues to play the keys with passion.

High School And Beyond

Although she took music in high school, her teachers were not very encouraging. She then turned to science. After graduation she attended Trinity Western University in Langley, BC studying biology. The following year she returned to Alberta, Canada and specialized in education.

Night Clubs

While attending collage she frequently went to the local clubs and sat in with some of the featured bands. It was while playing with the local bands that her confidence grew on stage and in her talents. The bands, watching her perform on stage night in and night out, encouraged her to get back into music. It was then that she realized that her true calling was country music.

Country Music Education

Carolyn, realizing that country music was her future, decided to pursue an education in the production of music. She enrolled in Vancouver’s Columbia Academy and learned the technical aspects of the music industry. While learning song writing from a video she purchased she wrote songs in her spare time. It was also at this time Johnson joined the Nashville Songwriters Association International.

Nashville Is Calling Carolyn Dawn Johnson

“I’m going for the big picture” Carolyn Dawn Johnson

This quote was said to her mother during a phone call in 1994. It was then she moved to Nashville. On her arrival in Nashville, Tennessee Carolyn began to seek out and attend song writing workshops. In 1998 everything changed. It was then she signed with Patrick Joseph Music as a songwriter. Her demos captured the attention of some amazing artists like Jo Dee Messina, Patty Loveless, Mindy McCready, Chely Write among others.

Big Break Writing

Carolyn Dawn Johnson’s big break came in 1999 with “Single White Female”. Johnson co-wrote the song “Single White Female” with Shaye Smith and, ultimately, Chely Write ended up recording the song. This song became her first #1 hit as a song writer. The momentum continued when Jo Dee Messina recorded another of Carolyn’s songs called “Downtime” which became a top #5 hit.

Music Row Magazine named Carolyn Dawn Johnson “Breakthrough Song Writer of the Year” in 2000.

Country Music Starts On The Road

In 1999 Carolyn started her country music solo career. Martina McBride asked Carolyn to go on tour with her as a back up singer and guitarist. While on tour with Martina, Carolyn worked on her own songs for her debut album.

Photo Credit :Carolyn Dawn Johnson Facebook

2001

In 2001 the doors continued to open for Carolyn Dawn Johnson. She opened for stars like Sara Evens, Martina McBride, Reba McEntire and Jamie O’Neil while on the Girls Night Out Tour.

Later in 2001 Johnson released her debut album “Room with a View” in Canada. An American release followed soon after. Selling almost 18,000 copies in the first week it became Nashville’s highest debuting album by an new artist. “Room with a View” became Certified Gold in Canada a few months later.

By the end of 2001 Carolyn Dawn Johnson had received 10 nominations from the Canadian Country Music Association. She went on to win 5 of those awards including Female Artist Of The Year.

2002

2002 Carolyn went on tour with Alan Jackson and Kenny Chesney. She won a Juno award for “Best Country Artist”. Another award won by Johnson that year was “Top New Female Artist’ by the Academy of Country Music.

2003-2005

Carolyn went on a co-heading tour in 2003 with Keith Urban. While on tour she wrote songs for her next album “Dress Rehearsal”, released in 2004. Later that year she received seven CCMA (Canadian Country Music Association) award nominations and won 5.

In 2005, Carolyn Dawn Johnson left Artisa Nashville stating “what they wanted me to do is not who I am.”

2006 – 2009

By 2006 she released her third album “Love and Negotiation” under Angeline Entertainment, a Canadian record label. At the CCMA awards in 2007 Carolyn was named “Female Vocalist of the Year”. Love & Negotiation was eventually released in the US by Dancing Lily Music, on October 13, 2009.

2010 – 2013

Johnson released a single “Let me Introduce Myself” from her next upcoming album “Love Rules”. The Album Love Rules was released on July 21, 2010 in the US and on Aug 10, 2010 it was released in Canada. Carolyn received “Female Artist of the Year” and “Album of the Year” for her Love Rules album. She also received “Female Artist of the Year” in both 2012 and 2013.

Recent years

Carolyn has been involved with another band JD & The Straight Shot. She started touring with them in 2018 and in 2019 became an official member of the band. They have just released an new album “The Great Divide” You can check out a live stream of the new album here.

Merritt’s Canadian Country Music Hall Of Fame

Merritt BC is the Country Music Capital of Canada. Downtown Merritt BC Canada is home of the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame. The Hall of Fame, the “Merritt Murals”, and the “Walk of Stars” have transformed Downtown Merritt BC into the largest country music art gallery you will ever have the pleasure of experiencing in Canada.

Take a selfie with your favorite country music artists and send them to us at @experiencenicolavalley on social media. Another Merritt BC Canada Attraction is the Walk of Stars. There are 100+ hand prints and even one foot print that have been cast in bronze for prosperity located throughout the community of Merritt BC Canada. Do you know who the foot print belongs to?

For more info and stories about the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame – Merritt BC Murals please go to Experience Nicola Valley.

Say hi on social media and let Carolyn Dawn Johnson know you saw her on Experience Nicola Valley. Better yet send her a selfie of you with her mural here in Merritt BC. Carolyn Dawn Johnson can be found on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Merritt BC Murals – Carolyn Dawn Johnson

Attractions, Canada, Entertainment - Music, History, Merritt

Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame

Canadian Country Music

Country Music Hall of Fame is a Merritt Tradition

“Canadian Country music continues to grow in Canada and a number of US artists have recorded and made hits of songs written by Canadian Song writers.”

The Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum collects, preserves and displays the history and tradition of Country music. The Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame honours Canadian country music artists, builders or broadcasters, living or deceased. The Country Music Hall of Fame is a national attraction and a must see Nicola Valley Experience in Merritt, BC Canada’s downtown.

Merritt and the Nicola Valley country atmosphere, outdoor adventures, traditional ranches, heritage and the unique
desolate landscape has been the inspiration for the biggest Country Music Festivals in Canada. In addition it has earned Merritt the title, Country Music Capital of Canada. It has also set the stage for the Country Music Hall of Fame to showcase our national artist inductees, song writers and their contributions to country music.

Canadian Country Music Roots

Photo Source CCMA: Hank Snow

The Maritimes, parts of Ontario and BC shared a strong folk tradition similar to that of the Appalachian region of the US. Because of this country music has found ready acceptance in Canada. It was first popularized by fiddlers such as Don Messer and George Wade. They started their careers on radio in the late 1920s. The Canadian Victor Record Co signed Wilf Carter in 1932, and his success prompted Victor to sign Wade (1933). Hank Snow (1936) and Hank LaRivière (1941) were signed as well. Carter, Snow, and later Earl Heywood introduced a unique style of country music to the scene using a lower, less nasal-sounding voice with clearer enunciation and fewer of the blues like slurs and high whining sounds that dominate much American country music.

Canadian Singers

However, Canadian singers depend more on the traditional ballad and story songs than on the “cheatin'” and barroom songs often preferred in the US. The Great Depression, WWII, a more mobile population, the success of the “singing cowboy” movies, the number of US radio stations with access to Canada, the increasing number of pop adaptations in country music, national radio shows and tours all increased the popularity of country music throughout the 1930s, 1940s and into the 1950s.

Movement to the United States

Canadian artists have struggled with low population of the country. Until the mid-1950s country artists relied on live radio shows, regional touring in clubs, barn dances and local television appearances to earn a living. With a shortage of places to perform and the lack of good recording studios, numerous artists, including Ray Griff, Stu Phillips, Lucille Starr and Ronnie Prophet, followed the lead of Hank Snow and moved to the US. In the 1960s country records became more pop-oriented. Artists such as Anne Murray, R. Harlan Smith and Shirley Eikhardt received airplay on commercial radio.

Country Music and Rock

Rock-oriented music, of the Good Brothers, Prairie Oyster and Colleen Peterson, gained a wider audience. The urban folk boom of the 1960s consisted of artists such as Ian and Sylvia Tyson, Gordon Lightfoot, Murray McLauchlan and Bob Ruzicka. These musicians have both a strong urban and country appeal. The folk-music boom introduced bluegrass, the jazz of country music, and traditional Canadian fiddle music to a much larger audience. In the 1990s there continued to be a strong crossover feeling to Canadian country music. The addition of new music artists Rita MacNeil, Quartette, Colleen Peterson, Ashley MacIsaac, The Rankins and The Barra MacNeils appeal to Canadian music audiences in general.

Growth of Western and Canadian Country Music

Canadian-content regulations for commercial radio in 1970 gave valuable airplay to artists such as Dick Damron,
“Stompin’ Tom” Connors, Carroll Baker, Gary Buck and the Family Brown. More radio stations were licensed and
more began to program for specialized markets. In 1960 there was one radio station, CFCW in Alberta, featuring
country music entirely. By 1987 there were 85 originating stations programming some country music during their
broadcast day, and by 1998 there were 110 full-time country stations and 36 part-time stations broadcasting country music in Canada. Because of this the 1980s saw a revival of interest in the older styles of country music of Ian Tyson, k.d. lang and groups such as Blue Rodeo and Spirit of the West. The more mainstream music of Eddie Eastman, Terry Sumsion and Terry Carisee, etc, remained popular.

Nashville Calling

Up until the 1990s primary television exposure for country artists came through such network shows as the Tommy
Hunter Show and syndicated broadcasts such as Sun Country and the Family Brown Show. More importantly, with the advent of country music specialty television channels, such as the Nashville Network and Canada’s Country Music Television (established in 1994 as New Country Network), new exposure possibilities for country music artists became possible. A new genre of country music, often referred to as new country, arose to take advantage of these opportunities. Borrowing promotional and production techniques along with a dose of attitude from rock music, this new music challenged accepted ideas of country music. This resulted in giving country musicians a much wider and more urban audience.

Making It Big

Photo Source CCMA: Michelle Wright-Patricia Conroy

Canadian artists who emerged in the 1990s include Michelle Wright, k.d. lang, George Fox, Charlie Major, Blue Shadows, Prescott/Brown, Paul Brandt, Cassandra Vassik, Patricia Conroy, Lori Yates, Terry Clark, the Wilkinsons and multi-award winner Shania Twain. There is still the notion that to make it big you must move to Nashville. However, television now offers Canadian artists a chance for much wider exposure. A 3-hour 1992 CBC-TV special brought new country and old country together in a program devoted to the history of Canadian country music called Country Gold. This program featured interviews and performances by Canadian artists from Hank Snow to k.d. Lang.

Birth of Canadian Country Music Association

The Canadian Country Music Association, formed in 1975 as the Academy of Country Music Entertainment, has sponsored an annual country music week in different cities across Canada. Country Music Week, as well as, Big Country Awards have brought artists and industry people together and have become major events in the promotion and development of country music. Therefore, the annual broadcast of the Country Music Awards has for many years been the top-rated Canadian music show on television. The Country Music Association is also responsible for the Canadian Country Music Hall of Honour, with a permanent home in Edmonton. The Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame however, is situated in Merritt, British Columbia.

Then and Now

Photo Source: CCMH of Fame

The Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame has released a Then and Now Album Volume 1. On September 7th, 2018 the first-ever Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame album was released. During the Canadian Country Music Awards in Hamilton, Ontario the ‘Then and Now – Volume 1’ compilation album was released. The album features Hall of Fame inductees Ian Tyson, Murray McLauchlan and Michelle Wright. They performed their biggest hits, in duets with some of today’s top names in Canadian country music. Some of the top artists performing are Brett Kissel, Aaron Pritchett and Jess Moskaluke. They were proud to participate.

Country Music Hall of Fame

There is an artifact collection of plaques, vintage turn table with 100’s of records (collection growing), national artist memorabilia, builders or broadcasters, living or deceased. Secondly, the country Music Hall of Fame includes extensive biographical information on the inductees. It is located in downtown Merritt, British Columbia at 2025 Quilchena Avenue. The facility is open year-round for custom tours, and is open to the public on seasonally adjusted hours. The initiative is governed by a not-for-profit society (the Canadian Country Music Heritage Society).

For more information contact:

Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame
2025 Quilchena Avenue
Merritt, BC Canada
Phone: 1-250-315-5508
Email: info@ccmhalloffame.com

Canadian Country Music in Merritt BC Canada

by Melvina White

History, Merritt, Nicola Valley, People

Living my Dream in Merritt, BC, Canada

Living My Dream In Merritt, BC, Canada

The Beautiful Quilchena Hotel

“My sisters and I were going on a trail ride.”

The first time I came to Merritt, BC Canada was on a family vacation in 1980. I was 11 years old and it seemed like an adventure of a life time. I will never forget as we started to come into Merritt, the site of those beautiful rolling hills was one of the most amazing sites I had ever seen. We grew up on a small acreage and seeing the vast landscape made me decide that this is where I wanted to be when I grew up.

horses riding hotel resort Merritt BC Canada

Photo credit: HipPostcard

The Quilchena Hotel in the Nicola Valley

My family and I stayed at the Quilchena Hotel in Merritt, BC,. I remember walking in the front doors and just being in awe. The staircase leading up reminded me of one of the historic houses from the movie “Gone with the Wind” that my mom used to watch. The way it went up on either side was so beautiful.

We were shown to our room but I am not sure how they managed to get us all in that one room. Furthermore, I am not sure where all my family slept but, I do however remember being so excited because I got to push two arm chairs together and that was where I slept. It’s funny now to think about what excited me as a child.

Photo credit: Douglas Lake Ranch Merritt, BC

Horse back riding the open spaces.

The following day couldn’t come soon enough. My sisters and I were going on a trail ride. My parents and Uncle did not want to go with us. When we got to the stables we were shown around, introduced to our horses and told a few rules before being aloud to mount up. It was a beautiful sunny day, and not too hot.

We rode out on a few different trails. When we reached the top of this one bluff we could see the most amazing views of Nicola Lake and the valley towards Merritt, BC. All I could think about was how one day I wanted to be a wrangler and take people out on horse back rides or work on a cattle ranch like this one.

I wanted everyone to see the spectacular views and experience the feeling of being as captivated by the whole experience as I was. This also gave me a passion for photography. I figured if people couldn’t come to see these amazing places I would forever capture them in pictures and share them that way.

“I remember riding out on the hills on a big black mare.” Jackie Grohs

My dream come true

I don’t really remember anything else about that trip. I remember having a wonderful time with my Uncle who was visiting us from England. The Hotel was amazing but the horse back ride was the highlight of the entire trip for me.

About 38 years later, I finally decided to take a chance. I called the Quilchena Hotel to ask about opportunities available at the Ranch. They gave me an email address for whom I could write to about a wrangler position.

So, I sat down and told them my story. Not knowing what kind of reaction I would get or if I would even ever hear back from them.

A year later, I made the move to Merritt, BC, Canada and shortly after was a wrangler at the Quilchena Hotel. Living my dream. Although things had changed somewhat, I still found the trail that lead me to the lookout. This time I had the opportunity to share it with my daughter.

” Being able to share with my mom what she had dreamed as a child was truly amazing”

Janette Warmerdam

The Quilchena Hotel in Merritt, BC, Canada no longer offers horseback riding but the Hotel and One Eleven Grill are so amazing you’ll want to come back for more.

Photo credit: Douglas Lake Ranch Merritt, BC

Living my Dream in Merritt, BC, Canada

by Michelle Bacon

Canada, History, Merritt

Merritt, BC History

History in Merritt, BC, Canada Read more

by Traci Marie

Artists-Galleries-Art, History, First Nations, Nicola Valley, People

First Nation Traditional Foods and Lodging in the Nicola Valley

First Nation Traditional Foods in Merritt BC

Nicola Valley British Columbia Canada First Nation Traditional Foods & Lodging

“We harvest berries in the traditional Nicola Valley areas, as well as, fish and hunt using the old ways and new ways.”

What type of First Nation traditional foods and lodging in the Nicola Valley have helped my people endure the hot summers and cold winters? My people, through many generations, have experienced the changing seasons of the Nicola Valley for generations. The extremes of our Nicola Valley weather systems have taught us many survival skills and have played a large part in growing our appreciation of our lands. How did the First Nation people survive is a journey I would like to share with you?

My Ancestors Were Nomadic During The Spring, Summer, And Fall Seasons

My ancestors used to live throughout the Nicola Valley territory traveling in groups. Living a nomadic life on the move provided my people the food necessary to last through the long cold winter months. Families would gather together in our seasonal villages and enjoy cooking over the open fire, and celebrating our traditions.

First Nation Traditional Foods and Lodging

Saskatoon berries I picked

We lived on berries …

First Nation traditional foods in Merritt and throughout the Nicola Valley consisted of berries like Saskatoon berries, huckleberries, choke cherries and soap berries.

And We Hunted And Fished…

My ancestors’ diet wasn’t limited to just berries. No… we also fished and hunted wild game. During the fall seasons, my First Nation people would fish the mighty Fraser River. My people of our village would catch enough fish to survive the long winters. During the entire year, dependent on the weather, village hunters pursued wild game while hunting with bows.

How Did My People Preserve Their Traditional Foods In Merritt BC?

Tule mat lodging

In the early days of my people we often preserved our traditional foods by drying it on specially made mats of tule reeds. Tule reeds were gathered during the winter months on the shores of nearby lakes. Properly prepared these reeds were used for drying and preserving many of our First Nation foods. My people would also make larger mats from the tule reeds to double as floors in their makeshift lean-to’s during the warmer months.

How Did The Nlaka’pamux People Carry All This Food?

Cedar Root basket

As gathers and hunters we required transportation of our goods. Before the introduction of horses to our culture by the Spaniards, my people would use dogs to transport our goods. Because we lacked horses at that time my people would walk to and from, here and there with their dogs. The dogs would be saddled with food packed in ceder root baskets.

Where Did My People Live Back Then?

Traditional lodges made out of cedar bark at Tuckkwiowhum interpretive village in Boston Bar

My First Nation ancestors used all sorts of materials from the land and waters. Because of our nomadic nature we were often in need of a portable shelter. In the summer months we used temporary shelters because of the ease of transportation moving from location to location. These portable lean-to’s were created out of fir boughs and tule mats. If the location required a longer stay my people would build these lean-to’s with cedar bark.

What About The Winter?

Interior model of a traditional Sheeiskin

Those summer temporary shelters wouldn’t hold up to the long winters of the Nicola Valley. During the winter season our shelters would take on new materials to create a new kind of shelter more durable to the winter conditions. This new shelter covered in earth is called a pit-house. In our first Nation tongue Nlaka’pamuxcin it is called a “Sheeiskin”.

Lots of thought and planning went into these structures. They would spend weeks looking for a proper location, then, when they found an acceptable spot, the community would work together and help build a pit house.

The sheeiskins were typically conical in shape with a hole in the center, which would let the campfire smoke escape through the hole. The First Nation men would enter down a ladder through the same center hole. while the women would enter through a side entrance. Each First Nation pit house could usually hold up to 3-4 families. There are locations in the Nicola Valley where you can still see the pit houses left behind from old sheeiskins, like at Monck Provincial Park.

Traditional Ways Are Still Around

Our First Nation traditional foods and lodging made it possible for my ancestors to survive the four seasons of the Nicola Valley.

Chokecherries I picked

Today we still harvest berries in the traditional areas and fish and hunt using the old ways – as well as the new. Our respect for our elders has never wavered. Elders are given first servings of any food we have gathered, and they are the keepers of our history often sharing their stories of our traditional and cultural ways.

A questions I have for you:

What is the traditional name of the First Peoples in my own area?

Please feel free to contact me with your answers. I always love learning about new cultures.

Or, if you also are Nlaka’pamux, share your stories with me!

See you later!

(In many First Nation’s languages there is no word for “Good-bye”, as that word may be interpreted as I will never see that person again.)

by Gerome Garcia

Merritt BC Canada Murals

Featured Country Music Musician – Tim McGraw

“Chase your dreams but always know the road that’ll lead you home again.” Tim McGraw

The Story of Tim McGraw Before The Merritt BC Canada Murals

Baseball To Country Music

Accomplishments of Tim McGraw

Merritt BC Canada Murals Honor Country Music Hits

Platinum Albums

1995

American Music Awards

Favorite New Country Artist

2000

National Father Hood Initiative

Father of the Year

2005

American Music Awards

Album of the Year “Live Like You Were Dying”

2012

CMA

Musical Event of the Year “Feel like a Rock Star” with Kenny Chesney

The Country Songs Keep On Coming

Family Life

Family Is Important

Not only a Country Artist

Flicka Movie Staring Tim McGraw

Merritt BC Murals

Walk The Merritt Murals

Walk of Stars

Featured Country Music Musician – Tim McGraw in Merritt BC

Casey Clarke Country Music Television and Radio

Merritt BC Murals in the Nicola Valley

An on air and TV personality that has been a great ambassador and friend of Merritt BC Canada

The Start Of The Broadcasting Career

The Television Career Begins For Casey Clarke

Casey Clarke Awards and Credits

Back to Radio

Casey Clarke’s Merritt Mural

Merritt BC Canada Murals

Still Connecting with Country’s Biggest Stars

Merritt Mural Downtown Digital Walking Tour

Country Music Legends – Merritt BC Murals

Hank Snow, Wilf Carter (Montana Slim), Orval Prophet, and Catherine McKinnon

“I know when I was little, people would say, ‘What are you going to be when you grow up?’ And my first answer was, ‘I’m going to be a singer, an actor, a nurse, and Barbara Ann Scott.” Catherine McKinnon

Short & Brief History of these 4 Legendary Country Music Artists

Hank Clarence Eugene Snow

Wilfred Arthur Charles Carter

Orval William Prophet

Catherine McKinnon

Merritt BC Canada Murals

Enjoy & Visit Merritt, BC, Canada

Inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.

Merritt Canada Downtown Mural Walking Tour – Nicola Valley

The Chair Walk, Merritt BC

July 10, 2019 to August 7, 2019

“Chairs like you have never seen before”

How does the Chair Walk Work?

The Business Community is on board.

Making Money for Art in Merritt, BC

Art in Merritt is worth the effort

Accommodations Galore!

What to expect with art in Merritt

Chair Walk – Art in Merritt BC Canada

Downtown Walking Tour Merritt Murals

Featured Country Music Musician : Carrie Underwood

“Singing is just a feeling set to music.” Carrie Underwood

American Idol

Carrie Underwood Induction into Grand Ole Opry

2009-2012

2013-2017

A Bounce Back For Carrie Underwood

A Star Was Born – The Younger Years

Later Years – Family Life

Merritt BC Murals

Downtown Attractions

Downtown Walking Tour Merritt Murals

Merritt BC Murals – Carolyn Dawn Johnson

Featured Country Music Musician : Carolyn Dawn Johnson

“I’m going for the big picture” Carolyn Dawn Johnson

Carolyn Dawn Johnson – Merritt BC Murals

The Songs Of A Canadian Country Singer