Travelling for country

Linda Heldman’s love of music began in the womb — once she came into the real world, that passion continued to grow. 

As a child, her afternoon naps were enhanced by classical music playing softly in the background. From there, she only developed a deeper appreciation for it.

Heldman writes a bit of her own music, sings in local theatre productions and listens to just about anything. She recently made her mark on the country music scene as a loyal fan and supporter. Earlier this month, the local music lover made the trek to Saskatoon, Sask., to take part in the Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) music week and awards.

In Canada, the country music scene is like “a big family,” Heldman said. “The CCMAs are like a family reunion — a chance for everyone to get together and play lots of country music.”

It was Heldman’s second time at the annual event. What made this year special was getting to spend some one-on-one time with one of the country’s fast-growing voices, Codie Prevost.

“I had heard of Codie before last year’s CCMAS,” Heldman said. “I knew who he was, but I didn’t know a lot about him.”

After watching him in action, Heldman was hooked. And it wasn’t just his music she was impressed by.

“He sees his support system of fans more as a family,” Heldman said. “That’s how passionate he is about his fan base.”

During this year’s event, Heldman had the chance to ask Prevost about all things related to his music.

The CCMAs are like a family reunion — a chance for everyone to get together and play lots of country music.

Linda Heldman

The small-town prairie boy spent his childhood on a farm, where he learned to play guitar. Even now, with three award-winning albums behind him, he has stayed true to his roots.

“It’s great to get out and drive a combine for two or three days,” he told Heldman. “You have time to think about everything. I’m a pretty simple guy.”

Perhaps it’s part of his farm-town roots that makes him so thankful for his fans. Prevost said it’s important to wow the fans, each and every time.

“Let’s play the show and appreciate everyone who came up,” he said. Hearing crowds cheer and sing along is a feeling like no other.

“That’s why the hair on my arm stands up,” he said.

Connecting with the music she loves made the CCMA experience that much more meaningful for Heldman. She enjoyed attending workshops, learning the meaning behind her favourite songs, listening to new and old favourites and networking with other musicians and music lovers, but the opportunity to really become part of the event was the most exciting part for Heldman. After all, music is a big part of who Heldman is.

“Music has always played such a huge part in my life,” she said. “I can tell my life story through music.”