JACELYN
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JACELYN

Toronto, Canada | Established. Jan 01, 2010 | SELF | AFM

Toronto, Canada | SELF | AFM
Established on Jan, 2010
Band Jazz Adult Contemporary

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"Juno's Photo Booth"

Juno winners, nominees and emerging hopefuls at the women in music event for the Juno's included Jacelyn Holmes. -


"Soul in the City"

By Kat Harlton
Photos by Tiffany Shum



http://www.seanjones.tv
http://www.jacelynholmes.com
http://www.vanessalegacy.com
http://www.casaloma.org



This past Monday I was fortunate enough to see Juno Award-winning artist, Sean Jones bring back his popular Soul In The City series to Casa Loma. Guests were allowed to wander through the castle and gardens all night, with a $1 from each ticket sold being donated to Kids Help Phone.

Backed by a seven–piece band, including saxophones (which I loved) Jones performed amazing renditions of a variety songs from various artists and eras, including Superstition, Soul Man, It Ain’t Over ‘Til It’s Over, Something In The Way She Moves and Love Man. However, it was Micheal Jackson‘s The Way You Make Me Feel, and Prince‘s Kiss during the 2nd half of the show that had guests dancing in the aisles under the glass pavilion and all throughout the garden.

Special guests included TV personality/singer/songwriter Jacelyn Holmes who did a soulful version of Ring Of Fire and Toronto’s own Vanessa Legacy, who gave us the chance to hear her powerful vocals while performing Change Of Heart and Tanika Charles who also brought the house down with an invigorating, passionate performance.

This is the 2nd time I’ve gone to this event, and I love it. There’s just something about wandering around the castle grounds all lit up at night with soulful music that’s magical. Not to mention the great food and drinks. I can’t wait to return.

Soul In The City starring Sean Jones runs every Monday evening 7:30pm from now until August 29th, 2016. - Lithium Magazine


"9 Bands in 12 Hours - Canadian Music Week 2017"

From April 18th to the 23rd, bands, industry reps and concert goers flooded the Toronto core for Canadian Music Week. Although we didn’t receive accreditation for CMW this year I still managed to find myself at three shows on Thursday, April 20th. One, a Strut Entertainment Social Event introducing the wonderfully talented Command Sisters from Alberta. They recently moved to Toronto and as intro to the media performed an acoustic set in a hotel suite in the Sheraton in Toronto.

Command Sisters | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 Command Sisters | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 Command Sisters | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 Command Sisters | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017
I then rushed to catch a Women’s Showcase at the new Ildsjel Collective, a studio space on Carlaw in Toronto. It’s a neat open space with tall ceilings and even a garage door that lets in lots of daylight. There’s a bar at the front which is convenient for events and overall a really cool space! There were a total of 6 performances including Jacelyn Holmes, Caren, Gillian Nicola, Gray, Altered by Mom and The Commoners! (It was a treat running into these guys two weeks in a row, they put on a killer performance, their tunes are catchy and I have a feeling they’re going to go far.) While shooting this show I received approval for the evenings events which was an extra bonus for the day!

Jacelyn Holmes | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 Jacelyn Holmes | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 Jacelyn Holmes | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017
Caren | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 Caren | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 Caren-21
Gillian Nicole | Photo By Joanna Glezakos 2017 Gillian Nicole | Photo By Joanna Glezakos 2017 Gillian Nicole | Photo By Joanna Glezakos 2017
Gray | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 Gray | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 Gray | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017
Gray | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 Gray | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017
Altered By Mom | Photo by Joanna Glezakos Altered By Mom | Photo by Joanna Glezakos Altered By Mom | Photo by Joanna Glezakos
Altered By Mom | Photo by Joanna Glezakos Altered By Mom | Photo by Joanna Glezakos
The Commoners | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 The Commoners | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 The Commoners | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017
The Commoners | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 The Commoners | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017
It was a pleasure to catch all of these performances, everyone was also really awesome about let me shoot during their whole set but I always try to ensure I’m not disturbing everyone else’s experience. I hate when I’m trying to enjoy a show and there’s a guy or gal with a camera front and centre stage the whole time. (But I digress) Timing couldn’t have been better, The Commoners set finished and I had just enough time to head to The Velvet Underground to catch The New Electric and Courage My Love.

The New Electric | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 The New Electric | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 The New Electric | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017
The New Electric | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 The New Electric | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017 The New Electric | Photo by Joanna Glezakos 2017
Oddly enough I had seen the guys from The New Electric earlier in the day during The Command Sisters’ performance, they’re part of the Strut Entertainment Family so I wasn’t surprised but it’s always nice to see a familiar face. The show was amazing, I always love seeing bands in smaller venues, their performances are more intimate and I usually get more expressive shots.

Courage My Love | Photo By Joanna Glezakos 2017 Courage My Love | Photo By Joanna Glezakos 2017 Courage My Love | Photo By Joanna Glezakos 2017
Courage My Love | Photo By Joanna Glezakos 2017 Courage My love-31 Courage My love-27
Lighting however proved to be VERY challenging on both the dummerss but especially for Phoenix Arn-Horne, the drummer of Courage My Love. I ALWAYS try and take shots of the drummer, why? Because they’re often forgotten. I can’t even count the number of times I have been thanked by a drummer for taking photographs of them! And to be honest it’s not their fault, I find lighting guys either forget the drummers completely or light them like their gods, I’ve never really seen a middle ground (you’ll see what I mean in a later post). If anyone is interested I can get into the difficulty of concert lighting and how to prepare yourself for various types of lighting.

That’s all for now! - Vengenza


"Canadian Music in the Spotlight - TD Green Room during 2016 JUNOS!"

Canadian Music in the Spotlight!

Artists and community celebrate Canadian music in the TD Green Room during 2016 JUNOS!

Canadian Music in the Spotlight!

Artists and community celebrate Canadian music in the TD Green Room during 2016 JUNOS!

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Canadian Music in the Spotlight!

Artists and community celebrate Canadian music in the TD Green Room during 2016 JUNOS!

Published April 14, 2016



The 2016 JUNO Awards recently wrapped, and we’re excited to share a little look back. Over JUNO Weekend (April 1 – 3), TD brought its continued support of Canadian music to the host city of Calgary.

Canadian music and Western hospitality were on full display at the TD Green Room. The unique destination brought together musicians, media and community organizations to celebrate the love of music by hosting artist performances, highlighting a huge range of musical styles.

Friday's performances featured locals including hip-hop artist Transit and singer-songwriter Jacob Vance, alongside fellow Albertans Sydney Mae, an emerging country talent, rockers REND, and fast-rising pop duo The Command Sisters. Montreal-born goalie-turned-star-vocalist Jonathan Roy showed us he can work a room as well as any net. Later, Vancouver indie rockers Derrival – finalists in the inaugural Allan Slaight JUNO Master Class - set the stage for Halifax singer-songwriter Ria Mae, a 2016 JUNO nominee currently making big waves nationally.

Throughout the unusually warm weekend, musicians and other guests enjoyed complimentary refreshments, and took advantage of the TD concierge service providing insider tips about Calgary. Many also received premium make-up and manicures. Everyone in the TD Green Room was made to feel like a V.I.P!

On Saturday morning, the Green Room was electric with energy as we prepared to share big news. For this year and next, TD has doubled its support of the MusiCounts TD Community Music Program. $1,000,000 will be invested to provide musical equipment for non-profit community music programs over the two years, putting more instruments than ever into the hands of young Canadians.


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There to help us share the news were musicians Kevin Drew, a driving force behind the MusiCounts TD Community Music Program, and Kardinal Offishall, who is both a successful rapper and music industry executive, always on the lookout for new talent. He spotted just that in the crew from The Freed Artist Society’s ReFreshed initiative, a Calgary-based urban arts and hip-hop program with the goal of bettering the lives of youth and their communities at its core.

Kardinal surprised the group with the news that The Freed Artists Society would receive $20,000 worth of music gear for their program. He also gave a heartfelt and inspirational speech, relaying his own experience of growing up in challenging circumstances, and rising up through music. The attentive audience heard the message, and the ReFreshed crew reciprocated by kicking off a cypher on-stage. Kardi watched and smiled from the sidelines as the youth freestyled on the mic and broke out b-boy moves.

Throughout the day, so many great artists took to the stage. Albertan artists like Ann Vriend, Melody Lovejoy, Rebecca Lappa, The Doll Sisters and all-female country band Nice Horse performed roots music of many shades. Vancouver hip-hop and alternative artist SonReal rapped and sang while 2016 JUNO nominee DRU got the room pumping with his funk-infused R&B, and fellow nominees The Elwins rocked their famously melodic riffs and infectious hooks.

As the TD Green Room called it a wrap for the day, Calgary came alive for the night as JUNO events and excitement took over the city for the rest of the weekend. TD is pleased to have been a part of it all. With almost half of 2016’s JUNO Award nominations going to first-time nominees, it’s obvious that Canada is experiencing a burgeoning era of musical creativity. It’s an exciting time to help put more instruments into the hands of young Canadians! - TD Music


"Entertainment Beat"

East End resident Jacelyn Holmes will perform as part of the Toronto Jazz Festival.

Holmes is a singer, songwriter and former CTV host creating music that straddles the lines between jazz, blues, country and soul.

Her performance is part of the festival’s Club Series, taking place at the 120 Diner at 120 Church St. on Thursday, June 30 at 8 p.m. Tickets are $20 or $15. See the jazz festival website for ticket information. - Beach Metro


"CP24 - Breakfast with Jacelyn"

Jacelyn stops by the CP24 studios to talk about upcoming shows, music and more. A live performance pick me up with your cup of java! - CTV


"Toronto's Most Eligable Bachlorette"

In a world where originality is hard to come by, one girl by the name of Jacelyn Holmes makes it look easy. Jacelyn is one of Canada’s most exciting emerging artists that is breaking through the international music market with her smoky voice and sexy sweet charm. Holmes is a singer, songwriter producing unique music that may only be described as the unity between country and soul.

This dynamic and vivacious young woman has been nominated for five music awards and won “Original Song of the Year” as well as “Adult Contemporary Artist of the Year”. The release of her debut EP, “As Is”, which has been called “a thoughtful exploration of love and loss in the battlefield of relationships” has created a platform for Holmes to generate an authentic connection with her listeners through her emotional and truthful lyrics. Soon after her first release, the award winning single “Growin’ Up” and her second release “Speechless” were featured in the film “Sophie” in 2011/12.

Jacelyn is most excited about her new appearance every Friday night on CTV’s Kevin Newman Live where she will be discussing the latest trends in the music industry. Look out for her new single this December, Waiting For Christmas, hitting country radio stations across Canada!

Jacelyn has a big heart and generally wears it on her sleeve, so she is looking for the guy who doesn’t play games. She would love a man who has been raised by a loving family. Family is so important to her, and the one she has is amazing, loving and supportive. Being active and adventurous are a plus for Jacelyn as her playground keeps getting bigger with more discoveries of what the world has to offer. Remember she is a country girl, so those boots are definitely getting dirty! Her career and lifestyle is fast paced and full of sharp turns and ups and downs. The entertainment business is ridiculously fun, but never easy so he has to keep up, hold his own and most of all avoiding jealousy. Good luck boys!


Name: Jacelyn

Occupation: Singer/Songwriter and Actress, TV Personality for CTV’s Kevin Newman Live

Things I’m passionate about: Music, Film, Traveling, Extreme Sports and Charities with youth initiatives

My ideal first date would be: A walk on the waterfront with a coffee (Bailey’s shot included)

People say that I am: Positive, bubbly, witty, sexy, generous and intelligent

My ideal partner is: I’m not looking for much but…I’d like an exotic man with an accent, preferably English. A gentleman who is intelligent and artistically savvy with a witty nature. He’s athletic and adventurous and loves to travel. Most of all, he’s honest and in control of his life choices, but always looks on the bright side of things.

Dating deal breakers: If he’s arrogant, selfish or ungentlemanly I automatically shut off and tune him out. If he has any hint of “man child” tendencies, I’m out the door…deuces!

I’m not bragging but I: Travelled around the world with my family for three years, as well, tour my music and work with charities in selected countries.

A talent that may surprise you: I can make a three leaf clover with my tongue…

Three artists you’ll find on my iPod: Serena Ryder, Cut/Copy and Swedish House Mafia

My dream vacation: On a private sail boat, touring the Greek Islands

On weekends you’ll find me: At a charity or special event, hanging with my girlfriends or performing/recording music.

What I put on my burger: Everything!

I was most impressed on a date when he: This amazing man took me to the beach and made a picnic and surprised me with chilled Prosecco. Most of all, he was warm and friendly while being open and honest during our conversation.

In high school I was: A total tom-boy and artistic nerd

My guilty indulgence is: Designer shoes!

In my past life I was: An Egyptian Princess

In my next life I’ll be: Chuck Norris the 2nd

If my life were a genre of movie it would be: A Comedy

The actor that should play my life story is: Alive: Drew Barrymore, Dead: Marilyn Monroe

Favourite ice cream flavour: Heavenly Hash!

To relieve stress I: Swim or write music

If I played hooky I’d: Go do something active and exciting like White Water Rafting! OR the complete opposite and sleep the entire day…

If I found a genie in a bottle my three wishes would be: 1) To be able to teleport myself anywhere in the world 2) Be able to hear men’s thoughts when I chose to 3) To have a dinner party with the Rat Pack - Eligable Magazine


"Celebrities Wearing Canadian"

While today marks the official opening of TIFF 2015, the parties have already been buzzing around town all week long. Crowed with celebrities and fans, all dressed their best, the city is never as stylish as it is during TIFF. We love it!

To celebrate, we've put together a celebrity-style sample of #INLANDFall2015 attending designers being worn in the spotlight. Meet and shop directly from these, and 45 other Canadian designers, this September 26th & 27th at the historical Glass Factory event space at 99 SUDBURY Street. - Made In Land


"There's Always Something"

Jacelyn Holmes - Arrival for "It's Always Something!" Variety Show, a fund raising event for the Gilda's Club Toronto at the Sony Centre for the Performing Arts. - Toronto, Canada - Contact music


"Lady In Red"

The talented and beautiful Jacelyn Holmes was on the set of Cover Me Canada for a dress rehearsal recently, and Fashion Crimes was more than happy to help the songstress put together the perfect outfit. She looks amazing in a red lace Drew dress, accessorized with a black flower stretch belt, large rhinestone flower ring, and black crystal fence cuff. This ensemble is both classic and sexy, and Jacelyn evidently does the look justice. Gorgeous!! - Fashion Crimes


"Eligible Magazine presents the TIFF Bachelor Party!"

By Roxy Rowe YYZEvents Staff Writer

TORONTO, ONT – The Eligible Magazine much anticipated ‘Eligible Magazine TIFF Bachelor Party!’ lived up to it’s billing with a spectacular event at the Flirty Girl Fitness Studio in Toronto’s King West Entertainment District.

2014 ELIGIBLE MAGAZINE presents The TIFF Bachelor Party
Gary T. Wilson (Founder and Editor-in-chief of Eligible Magazine)
For the second year in a row Eligible Magazine ‘TIFF Bachelor Party’ had former stars of ‘The Bachelorette’ and the ‘Bachelor In Paradise’ reality shows, Chris Bukowski, Graham Bunn, Zack Kalter and Robert Graham.

Hosting this year’s red carpet and was heartthrob Michael Stagliano from The Bachelorette and Bachelor Pad.

The VIP pre-party had oysters provided by Rodney’s Oyster Bar, and hors d’oeuvres from Brassaii and premium Tequila tasting by Don Good Tequila. As this wasn’t enough, the evening included pole dancing and the ‘Coyote Ugly Dance’ and Canadian country music sensation Jacelyn Holmes provided music. - YYZ Magazine


"Following Her Gut"

Following her gut

Arts/Life

By LORI LITTLETON , STANDARD STAFF

Posted 9 hours ago

Jacelyn Holmes firmly believes if you're not happy with your life, you need to follow your gut and make changes because the risk is worth it.

"I'm really excited about the year ahead. I like to tell people, especially youth, if you're not happy with what you're doing in life, it's not too late to change it," she said.


"If you take a risk and follow your gut and your passion ... the return on that risk is worth it. When you do that, you won't believe in less than a year what can happen. I was scared so much to change careers."
Holmes, who just turned 25, is having the time of her life. After deciding to pursue her dream of being a singer/ songwriter in 2009, Holmes recorded a four-song EP, won a Niagara Music Award and has been performing nearly nonstop. She'll be at the Niagara Wine Festival VIP Lounge on Sept. 25, at 6:30 p.m.

"I was involved in music kind of low key. I was just writing songs and singing, keeping things on the down low because theatre and acting was my thing," she said. "But then my friends started encouraging me to open for them and go to open mics and things just grew. It became a healthy addiction and I just decided to go with my gut, my instincts, and get focused. And in less than a year, what has happened is beyond my wildest dreams."

Holmes made her entertainment industry debut at an early age. Growing up in Mississauga, her mother, Lea, was a stage and film actor, who did work for CBC Radio. Occasionally, Jacelyn Holmes accompanied her mother on auditions.

"One time, they needed a daughter and I did the audition and got the role," she said.

Over the years, Holmes appeared in more than 30 commercials, TV shows and movies, such as A Little Piece of Heaven, Maniac Mansion and Kids in the Hal l, and blockbuster movies, such as Billy Madison and The Ref.

During her teens, Holmes and her family, which also includes dad, David, sister, Jessica, and brother, Braeden, spent four years travelling across Europe, Mexico, the United States, Canada and into Costa Rica and Nicaragua. After her family returned home, Holmes her own, visiting Venezuela, where she worked in an orphanage for three weeks, Costa Rica and eastern Europe.

When she finally returned home, Holmes was drawn to her high school's theatre program.

"I liked that I was not doing TV and film. I took a break and was just a normal teenager. Because before, I would be on a set for three or four months," she said.

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"As an artist, it's better to witness more and see everything from catastrophic poverty to the wonders of the world. Your palate for expressing the human condition is better. You're able to tap into more things."

After graduating, Holmes headed for Brock University's dramatic arts program. Her family joined her, settling in Port Dalhousie.

As she explored her theatrical abilities, Holmes became increasingly drawn to music. She picked up a guitar and wrote the song Speechless, which she performed at the 2005 Niagara Idol. She was a finalist in the competition.

When she graduated in 2008, Holmes received the Spirit of Brock Award, an annual award that recognizes a student's academic work and contribution to the school community. During her time at Brock, Holmes founded the Gimmie2Festival, which helps welcome first-year dramatic arts students to university life, as well as engage them in their craft.

Upon graduating, Holmes was cast as Albertine at age 30 in St. Catharines professional theatre company Lyndesfarne Theatre Projects' production of Albertine in Five Times.

She also hone her musical skills and vocal abilities. In June 2009, Holmes made her singing debut at the Springlicious Festival and was hooked. At the event, she met Beth Moore, who suggested they should do a singer/songwriter night at Mide Bistro in Niagara Falls.

In February, Holmes went to Canadian Heritage Records in Burlington and recorded her EP, As Is, which she submitted to the Niagara Music Awards. She was nominated for three awards and took home original song of the year honours for Growin' Up.

"(In 2009 Moore) was up for best female vocalist at the Niagara Music Awards and I thought, I wanted to be up there for an award in two years and to be there this year, was just amazing," Holmes said.

Holmes' other goals -- performing at the 2011 Niagara Wine Festival, Barrie Music and Pride Toronto festivals -- have also come true -- a year ahead of schedule.

"It was a pleasant surprise to get all of that," she said.

To take advantage of the momentum, Holmes recently relocated to Toronto, where, aside from performing at clubs such as the El Mocambo and the Zemra Bar Lounge, she speaks to youth and teaches songwriting and theatre in the York Region.

She is also recording some of her songs with the graduating class at the famed Harris Institute, under the direction of Gemini Award-winner Doug McClement.

Other musicians who have previously worked with the students include Nelly Furtado and Keshia Chante.

When her new songs are completed, Holmes plans to return to the studio in November and record her debut full-length album.

"I have a dream board and there is a quote on there about obtaining goals in my life and holding myself accountable, which is what I've learned from my dad and my mentors," she said, adding her vocal coach, Judith Lander, suggested she create the board. "One of my quotes was, by 25, you might acquire more than you ever thought (was possible) by following your intuition. It's always important to have a dream board. It's above my bed so it's the last thing I see before I go to sleep and it's the first thing I see when I wake up."

llittleton@stcatharinesstandard.ca

- - -

Who: Jacelyn Holmes

When: Sept. 25, 6:30 p.m.

Where: Niagara Wine Festival VIP Lounge

Information: www.niagarawinefestival.com

Article ID# 2770000
- Standard


"Jacelyn Holmes/Waiting For Christmas"

JACELYN HOLMES/WAITING FOR CHRISTMAS/DEC. 13TH
I'm having a hard time pronouncing Jacelyn in my head. I'd try it aloud but it would spook the cat. Oddly, but certainly indicative enough, her Christmas single "Waiting for Christmas" seems to not spook him. He's a skittish fellow, but this upbeat jazzy poppy inoffensive holiday number seems to sooth his feline sensibilities. And he's Jewish!
I'm not a cat but I like the song too, and a little new christmas music never hurt anyone.
Catch Jacelyn with the Sugar Devils at her cd release for Winter Wonderland on the 13th at the Rivoli. - BlogTO


"Jacelyn Holmes Knows How To Rock Fashion Crimes"

Jacelyn Holmes Knows How To Rock Fashion Crimes
Canadian singer/songwriter (and Fashion Crimes besty) Jacelyn Holmes has been a very busy lady these days. She attended this years Oceana Ball, and looked amazing in a sequin covered Fashion Crimes dress accessorized with a gold gem cuff, gold eagle head ring, and rhinestone flower earrings:



Here is a great pic of Jacelyn posing with Michael "Pinball" Clemons!




Also, Jacelyn donned a cut crystal bodice Sherri Hill dress (available at Fashion Crimes) for her latest video shoot. She also snagged some awesome Fashion Crimes accessories to complete the look: red satin evening gloves (currently on sale for as low as $5!! What?!), a fabulous red feather fascinator, and a Canadian supplied bleached fox fur stole (click HERE to see why Fur Is Green). Nothing says the beach like a big, warm, cozy fur! Love the contrast! - Fashion Crimes


"Vents Interviews: Jacelyn Holmes"


1) How did this all start?
Well, I followed my gut instincts and switched from acting to singing/songwriting and in less than a year the rewards for this risk have been great, including winning Original Song of the Year at the Niagara Music Awards for my first ever released song! Some shows I have been invited to play include PRIDE Toronto, Niagara Grape and Wine as well as some small tv spots! I met band members in the most unique ways; Alex is my Electric Guitarist we met on a bus to Niagara Falls, we were both hungover and loved music! Colin is my Bassist and he saw me perform at a bar and left the band that he was playing with and hasn't looked back since. I put an add in Craigslist for an Acoustic Guitarist and found John, who also does back up vocals. Drummers are a different story, I have a few I work with based on their availability.
2) What's the message to transmit with your music?
Mission Statement. Branding aside, music connects us, so get connected and have fun!
3) What's your method at the time of writing a song?
Usually the song informs me how it wants to be written. It also depends on who I am writing the song with, if anyone. I like to write with Colin (who plays Bass, but almost every other instrument as well). Colin? “Rhythm and words come together easiest unless a melody is so strong it needs me to find words to remember the melody, or I have music and I have to find a melody that will go with it, so the words come last. I usually write from the bass line or the drums point of view.”
4) Which are your music influences?
I started off with idols like Patsy Cline, Carole King, Janis Joplin and The Beatles but my influences expand every day from a new hit single on the radio by a new band, or from an old classic vinyl album that I forgot about from my moms collection. I think that music, like any art has a way of influencing you based on where you are in your life. Have you ever heard a song 99 times and the 100th time you get affected by it because
of something you went through that day? Songs have the power to be at the right time and place to connect deeper with you if you let it.
5) What plans do you have for the future?
I am really excited about releasing my debut album in the new year! I am also preparing to go on a mini tour in Canada and cross the boarder to the US and share my music with as many people as possible. The music video for my single “Growin' Up” will be released in the next month, and I hope that the video puts the album on the map. Lots of recording, live shows and new ideas and fans is what we see in the future!
John (Acoustic Guitar): “I'm excited for all the screaming girls and to meet Kelly Clarkson...finally!”
6) Which has been the funniest prank you have been or took while on tour or after a
show?
I'm a new artist and have NOTHING yet, which is so sad. But now I feel obligated to pull
a prank on someone in the band or the whole gang...boys you better watch out! Ha!
7) If you were stranded in the middle of nowhere after a show or while on tour. The help is 65 miles away from where you and your band (If any) are, who would you send to look for help? And if while the rest wait, there's no food and the only way to feed yourself is by eating each other who would you eat first?
Alex (Electric Guitar): I'd go get help! (Whole Band) NO!!!
Colin (Bass): We would need help Alex, not beer! I would become a vegetarian or do another cleanse, I just finished one now and didn't eat for 10 days.
8) Which Country would you love to play?
Egypt, because I have always wanted to visit this country, but more importantly I would love to see how the women there receive my music because of the cultural differences.
Colin: England, anywhere The Beatles did!
9) With which bands you would love to share stage?
I would love to share the stage with Heart because they are amazing...Barracuda! Or someone completely out of my genre like Beyonce or Lady Gaga.
Colin: Heart...good choice Jacelyn!
John: Someone country!
Alex: Metalica.
10) Are you OK with the direction the band is going actually?
More than OK! You shouldn't be doing music that is just OK?!!?

Check out more: www.jacelynholmes.com - Vents Magazine


"Mandy Ross interviews Jacelyn"

Jacelyn Holmes, Mandy Ross, TIFF14, Social Lodge, SETonKing, Karyzma Agency - TIFF


"It's Always Something Variety Show"

On November 22 at the Princess of Wales Theatre, the Gilda's Club of Greater Toronto held their 9th annual variety show, 'It's Always Something.' Named after famed Saturday Night Live comedian Gilda Radner, the event joins comedians and performers to raise money for Gilda's Club - a cancer care centre that provides free social and emotional support programs to help cancer patients, and their families, cope with the diagnosis. Special guests included comedians Eugene Levy, Russell Peters, Colin Mochrie and comedy troupe Women Fully Clothed, as well as Jim Cuddy and Greg Keelor of Blue Rodeo. - The Globe and Mail


"NOW Magazine: Jacelyn Holmes"

Play the parks - TD - Toronto - Metro Publishing


"Meafordlivemusic"

Jacelyn Holmes, whose press touts her as a blend of Marilyn Monroe and Stevie Nicks, is at The Huron Club in Collingwood for the weekend. Following her showcase performance at the 2017 Juno Awards she’s released a smoky blues single, “Fool”, and is working on an upcoming album. - city official


"Jacelyn Holmes coming ‘home’ for the holidays"

She may not have been born in Niagara and she may now live in Toronto, but for Jacelyn Holmes, Niagara will always have a special place in her heart.

After all, the Brock dramatic arts grad called the region home for a critical part of her life when she launched her music career.

So now that she’s hoping to achieve Christmas classic status with the release of a new single, Holmes wanted to have one stop in the region on her mini tour to promote the release.

“I called Niagara home for a long time,” Holmes said during a telephone interview Monday morning following the launch of her Winter Wonderland Tour. The tour has a decidedly exhausting schedule, as evidenced by the frequents yawns from Holmes during the conversation.

Following taped and live television performances, the tour kicked off Saturday and Sunday with shows in Toronto, and continues this week. On Friday, Holmes is scheduled to perform at a free family event in the afternoon in Stratford before racing down to Niagara Falls for a 9 p.m. start at Big Texas Bar and Grill. It’s a busy schedule but one that comes with the territory when you’ve released a single, with the hopes of it receiving heavy air play during the holidays.

“This is my first time doing this, and I’m tired, but it’s a lot of fun,” Holmes said.

As for the song she’s promoting, “Waiting for Christmas,” Holmes describes it as something of a hybrid between new country and jazz, which is entirely suited for a voice often characterized as a fusion of Shania Twain and Nora Jones.

Country, though, is the dominant sound.

Holmes said it’s important for a Christmas song to be able to find a home on a variety of radio station playlists.

“It’s Christmas,” she said. “It’s a song that’s able to cross genres, but it has mostly a country feel.”

The song centres on a woman longing for the return of her love — all the while anticipating the things we look forward to over the holidays. - Niagara This Week


"Here, Here & Here - Jacelyn Holmes"

When we came across Jacelyn Holmes, it was easy to tell simply from her music and her pictures that she was a ball of energy wrapped in a cute blonde bundle. After going through all the emailing, phone calls, texting and planning, we were finally able to meet up at the Distillery District. The Distillery District was lit absolutely beautifully due to the Christmas Market and it was packed with a crowd of people bustling around, bringing in that Christmas feel. Once we met up with Jacelyn, we realized that we didn’t have anywhere to film, mainly due to the noise and the crowd. Jacelyn took the lead and we followed her as we tried to find a place that worked. Initially, we were thinking of filming at the Merry-go-round that was present, which would have been great, if it didn’t get so busy. We then, upon Jacelyn’s suggestion, went into Fluevog, the shoe store (which as we learned, has awesome shoes and designed the shoes for Air Canada Rouge). Inside there was an extravagant Christmas tree, a cozy couch and an area free from the sounds of the crowd. The amazing people at Fluevog gave us the green light to film and our session was underway.

Jacelyn Holmes’ voice filled the store with its warmth and volume. Her country heart and passion was clear in every word. Her animated personality showed through her gestures and her bubbly style. She is what could be called a country Betty Boop, with her sultry and adorable sound. Her guitarist, Nick, did well in keeping up with her seeing as he is not her usual guitarist. Together they did amazing acoustic renditions of Jacelyn’s songs “Speechless” and her Holiday single, “Waiting for Christmas”

Some stuff about the blonde beauty:

Jacelyn Holmes began adventure into the arts through her ambition in acting. A few years ago, after singing in front of her friends, her ambition changed into that of becoming a country singer. For about three years now, Jacelyn has been venturing deep and deeper into the world of music. She is off to a speedy start, her songs can be heard on country radio stations across Canada and her singles are doing well. Her single Speechless (which she sang acoustically for us) has received much acclaim and positive feedback. Her Christmas single, “Waiting for Christmas” is definitely a refreshing change to the usual repetitive songs we hear during the holidays. She doesn’t stop at her own music either; Jacelyn currently can be seen on CTV’s Kevin Newman Live every Friday, where she discusses the trends within the music industry. This girl is moving speedily towards a successful career and she has no intention of slowing down. - Here, Here & Here


"Soul in the City - Casa Loma"

Special guests included TV personality/singer/songwriter Jacelyn Holmes who did a soulful version of Ring Of Fire and Toronto’s own Vanessa Legacy, who gave us the chance to hear her powerful vocals while performing Change Of Heart.

There’s just something magical about wandering around the lit-up castle grounds at night with soulful music playing in the background. Not to mention the great food and drinks! If you haven’t attended a performance at this unique venue as yet, what are you waiting for? - Been Here Done That


"CD Release Party for Jacelyn Holmes"

Niagara Music Award-winner Jacelyn Holmes will celebrate the release of her debut album As Is on Nov. 21, at the Merchant Ale House.

Joining Holmes, who took home original song of the year honours at the spring event for her song Growin' Up, will perform, along with Aaron Berger and Edwin Conroy Jr.

Holmes has recently performed at festivals and concerts this summer, including the Niagara Wine Festival and Pride Toronto.
She is planning a cross-Canada tour for the summer of 2011, and two of her songs, Growin' Up and Speechless, were recently picked up to be used in the film Sophie.

Holmes will also appear in the upcoming Global TV reality series Canada Sings as a contestant.

Admission to the CD release party is $10, or $6 with student identification. Doors open at 8 p.m., and the show begins at 9 p.m. The Merchant Ale House is located at 98 St. Paul St. For information, visit www.jacelynholmes.com. - The Standard


"Holmes Comes Home For CD Release"

Holmes comes home for CD release

Jacelyn Holmes wants to celebrate her success with the people who gave it to her.
The St. Catharine native is set to release her debut CD “As Is” and to celebrate she is coming back to St. Catharines for her release party at the Merchant Ale House, 98 St. Paul St., on Nov. 21.
“I wanted to do it in St. Catharines because that’s the community that has supported me from the beginning,” said Holmes, who got her start as an actor. Since making the jump to songwriting Holmes has won the 2010 Niagara Music Award for Song of the Year for Growin’ Up.
Holmes’ new EP will feature her earlier country songs and she is set to perform at the release party, also featuring some of her newer works that take her in an acoustic rock direction. Door prizes will be featured as well as musical guests Aaron Berger and Edwin Conroy Jr. who will each take to the stage for a set.
“It (the EP) is the songs I began my career with,” she said, explaining that the album will draw heavily on emotions of love and love lost.
“We are really happy with what we came up with,” said Holmes, referring to her new release, adding, “people have been waiting for it.”
She explained that while it took her a while to be satisfied with the album, she is excited to see her work coming to fruition and with two of her songs set to appear in the feature film Sophie she is looking forward to a wider exposure.
“I actually cried when I heard,” she said in reference to her songs appearing in the film.
The 19-plus CD release party kicks off at 9 p.m. with the doors opening at 8 p.m. Cover will be $10 at the door or $6 for students. To preview some of Holmes work visit www.JacelynHolmes.com.
- Niagara This Week


"Indie Act Takes Centre Stage"

The second night of this year’s Niagara Wine Festival promises to be a local affair.

With family day wrapping up, Indie Night is set to take place at the festival this Saturday, bringing a largely local lineup to the stage. New-York-based band The Permtones are set to kick off the evening at 2:15 p.m. with their instrumental light jazz stylings and will be followed by Toronto-based R&B, classic rock, blues and funk band Groove Hammers.
The first local act of the night will be recent Niagara Music Award-winner Jacelyn Holmes, who is scheduled to take to the stage at 5:15 p.m.
“I really want to be one of the people to uplift the Niagara arts scene,” said Holmes, a 25-year-old St. Catharines native.
Holmes, whose song “Growin’ Up” won original song of the year at the 2010 NMAs, said she is excited to play a home town show and appreciates the support from the community. Currently working on her soon-to-be-release album in Toronto, Holmes plans to play some of her newer, upbeat rock tunes on the main stage at the festival, saving her older “folk pop” works for her performance in the festival’s VIP tent the following Saturday.
“My sound has changed to a bit more rock,” said Holmes. “On the main stage, I will be doing my more upbeat stuff.”
Another 2010 NMA winner hits the stage after Holmes, when Niagara-Falls-based John Boyd takes his blend of pop and folk rock to the stage at 5:45 p.m. Boyd was awarded male artist and male vocalist of the year at this year’s NMAs.
Next up at 6:30 p.m. is Niagara’s British Invasion. Songs by the Beatles, the Rolling Stones and the Yardbirds are just a sample of what the band will perform as they explore the 1960s hits of the British invasion.
Desire - A Tribute to U2 will round out Indie Night taking to the stage at 8:30. The Grimsby-based band will pay tribute to U2 as they perform a variety of the Irish rockers’ classics. - Niagara This Week


"Pride Week 2010's line up 'scintillating'"

Pride Week 2010’s line-up ‘scintillating’

Pride Toronto’s 30th anniversary festival features local heroes, international stars, literary lights, interactive arts and everything that is diverse, inclusive, queer and progressive on 9 stages spread over 35 blocks in downtown Toronto.

“Pride-goers can see Cyndi Lauper on the new Queen’s Park stage as part of the expanded Dyke Day program along with local favourites The Cliks, Saidah Baba Talibah, Dragonette, Betti Forde and more” says Mary Zondanos, Arts and Entertainment Manager at Pride Toronto.

Alternaqueer expands its program across the weekend with Lovers Love Haters (Debora Cohen from The Organ’s newest project), MEN, Misstress Barbara LIVE w/ Girls On A Ducati, Ryan G. Hinds, Josie Cotton, Woodhands, Diamond Rings, Private Life (Katie Stelmanis), Copenhagen’s Fagget Fairys and many more.

Divas reign supreme this year with Zelma Davis (from C+C Music Factory), Lolene, one the UK’s hottest exports, local darling Nancy Rancourt, resident Pride diva Simone Denny, Amanda Morra and R&B sensations Ivana Santilli and Jully Black.

Pride Week 2010 also features the TransVerse program, celebrating the Trans community with America’s Best Dance Crew Vogue Evolution, a commissioned dance piece by local superstar Scott Fordham (‘Full of GLEE’), Buck Angel, S. Bear Bergman, Alec Butler, Girlyman – who recently collaborated with Margaret Cho on her upcoming album, San Francisco hip hop notable Katastrophe and more including the official after party done in partnership with Pride Toronto’s South Asian program, FunkAsia!

Dance takes on many forms with Project Dance back for Round Two, along with Colour Me Dragg, Queer Idol’s tribute to Pride Toronto’s 30 year history, House of Monroe, FunkAsia’s amazing dancers, and – another first - the Pride Toronto Flashmob.

In 2010 for the first time, Pride Toronto introduces ‘Werq!’ a circuit music program which spans the whole weekend, taking over Wellesley stage.

“It all kicks off with Aqua Pride, a co-presentation between Pride Toronto and Prism Festival,” says Zondanos. “Prism is one of North America’s largest circuit festivals and we are proud to working with them again.”

The Werq! Stage features Ana Paula, Isaac Escalante, David Morales, Australian dream Kitty Glitter, Honey Dijon, Cajjmere Wray, Mike Viera, Pierre Fitch and others.

The Blockorama stage returns for the 12th year with a solid line up of resident favourites and new discoveries in George Hislop parkette, including DJ Memphis Sugar, Nik Red, Ayo Leilani, Craig Dominic, Abstract Random, Troy Jackson, Michelle Ross, Ill Nana, Unruly Twin, DJ Bugo and Jojo Flores.

Those hot for electronic music can join JELO, Robb G, The House Moguls, Sydney Blu, Hector Fonseca, Dwayne Minard, MC Flipside, DJ Blackcat, Adam K & Soha, Panic Bomber, Deko-ze, Don Berns AKA Dr. Trance, Neill Macleod, DJ Ritu (BBC radio), Brandon Sek, Chiclet, and the Yes Yes Y’all crew.

“Pride Toronto’s Village stage includes a stellar line up of Drag Queens, Kings and Burlesque,” Zondanos says, “featuring the Degenderit Cabaret, Zippers Angels, Carlotta Carlisle, GIA, Michel Doiron, Divinesque, Eddie Barnett, Michelle Ross, Ivory, Daytona Bitch, Divine, Genderfuct, Miss Conception, Sofonda Cox, Laura Landauer, Dirk and Flare.

For the younger set, Fruit Loopz produced by Supporting our Youth includes two stages with youth artists in sunny Alexander Parkette, complete with Toronto’s most talented young musicians, slam poets, dancers, actors and drag artists.

The Community Café, Pride Toronto’s community space in which performers donate their performance to the festival in celebration of the community includes the Asian Community AIDS Services, Canadian Tamil Congress, NIA, Bold Steps Dance Studio, Queer Dance Community, Hula Sun Village Dance Troupe, Sapphire Dance Productions and 88 Days of Fortune.

The Pride Lounge, the festival’s singer/songwriter space, will feature performances from Michael Caplan, Meridith Shaw, Melissa Li (from Good Asian Drivers), Michelle Mondesir, Shawnee Lynne, eMKeh, Jaceyln Holmes, Rachel Newman, VIVIV and more.

Literary program Proud Voices is back again with curator Susan G. Cole (Senior Entertainment and Books Editor at NOW Magazine) hosting an incredible and inspiring program with the Aqsa Collective, Truth Is…, Beth Ann Fisher, Christina Starr, Jess Dobkin, Rose Cullis, Krystle Mullin, Lex Vaughn, Mariko Tamaki, Jon Redfern, Shaun Proulx, Emma Donoghue, Pink Ink and Vivek Shraya.

Plot, Engage, Disperse, Pride Toronto’s interactive art program, returns again with students from the Toronto Alternative Arts school, youth from Sketch, life size twister, the “What Does Pride Mean to You” photo project from Pride Toronto’s Youth Committee, live graffiti, sketching and many other ways people can interact with the festival!

Pride Toronto’s new Spotlight Series showcases some of the individuals and organizations who contribute year round to the vibrancy of our cultural community. Carlyle Jansen presents ‘Crave’ a women’s erotic cabaret at the Phoenix, the women behind the ‘club skirts’ Dinah Shore present ‘Jet Setter’ at 99 Sudbury, and Matt Sims presents a special Pride edition of ‘HEY REBEL!’, one of Toronto’s best monthly all ages events at one of Toronto’s best venues, The Great Hall.

In addition, Zahra Dhanani of Funkasia, Nik Red and Shafik Kamani present the official Transverse afterparty at the Phoenix Concert Theatre; Denise Benson and Cozmic Cat present ‘CHERRY BOMB: PRIDE: A DEEPER LOVE’ at Revival; Big Primpin’ does a special edition at Wrongbar; Alan Kliffer presents ‘Gay for Comedy’ at the Panasonic Theatre and the Canadian Lesbian and Gay Archives present a remount of their National Portrait Collection.

“And that’s definitely not all,” says Zondanos. “There are many other performers we will be hosting at Pride this year, so stay tuned!”

For a full schedule of events, including dates, times and locations, keep checking www.pridetoronto.com.
About Pride Toronto:
Pride Toronto is the not-for-profit organization that hosts Pride Week, an annual festival held this year between June 25 and July 4. Pride Toronto exists to celebrate the history, courage, diversity and future of Toronto's LGBTTIQQ2SA* communities and is one of the leading cultural events of its kind in the world with a total economic benefit in 2009 of $136 million.

Toronto's Pride Week has been named Best Festival in Canada by the Canadian Special Events Industry in 2004, 2005 and 2009, and is recognized as one of only eight Signature Events in the City of Toronto. It is ranked one of the TOP 50 festivals in Ontario by Festivals and Events Ontario (FEO) as well as one of the 18 Marquee Festivals of Distinction in Canada. With attendance of over 1,2 million, it is the third largest Pride celebration in the world and the largest in North America. http://www.pridetoronto.com *Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual, Transgender, Intersex, Queer, Questioning, 2-Spirited and Allies

Media Contact:
Michael Ain, Marketing and Communications Manager
Tel 416.927.7433 Ext 226
Email michael@pridetoronto.com
- Gay Guide Toronto.com


"Brock Grad steps up to the stage"

Brock grad steps up to the stage
Chris Illich

Issue date: 9/14/10 Section: Arts & Life
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This year's Niagara Wine Festival has given Jacelyn Holmes, a Dramatic Arts graduate from Brock University, a reason to celebrate as well.
Holmes claims she has never missed an event, in the eight years she spent living in the Niagara region. The singer/songwriter was asked to perform at this year's festival, a goal that she had set for herself for 2011.
"It was a goal I had for next year, but they asked me this year. It's a little bit sooner, but that's okay. I've always gone, I've lived in St. Catharines for eight years up until this year, and it's one of the best festivals that we have, so I'm really excited that I get to be included in one of the top festivals in the region," said Holmes.
As Holmes explained, she has always wanted to be a performer. As a child she acted in television, commercial, and movies, but has now chosen to follow a career in the music industry. Luckily for Holmes, her foray into music industry was met with around-the-board applause.
She was recently nominated for three awards at the Niagara Music Awards, and it was her first single, "Growin' Up" which won the title of Original Song of the Year. Three nominations and an award is nothing to shy away from, especially for someone who wasn't sure how she was going to be received as a musician at first.
"When you first release something creative into the public, you just want to be accepted. There's a level of risk at heart when you are releasing something that you aren't sure how audiences are going to react," said Holmes.
"When I released my first recorded song ever, I wasn't expecting to get noticed. To get three nominations and then to win something, [that] was the cherry on top of the cake - I didn't expect it."
The Niagara Wine Festival takes place from Sept.17-26 in Montebello Park, and Holmes will be performing on the evening of Sept 18.
Holmes, who recently moved to Toronto, after graduation to focus on her music, has been working on her upcoming debut album under the helm of Doug McClement and his team of students at the Harris Institute in Toronto. As she explains, she can't wait to be back in St. Catharines to share her music with the people she grew up around.
"The Niagara Wine Festival has this very unique way of bringing people together. The festival has something to bring together anyone, whether it's through wine, food, music or fun and games," she said.
"I'm just so excited that people that live in my community can come hear my music." - Brock Press


"Log Jam Festival attracts big names, new acts"

WHITEWATER REGION - Fresh off capturing multiple Canadian Country Music Association nominations, Pembroke's own Jason Blaine headlined the Log Jam Country Music Festival here over the weekend.

The chart-topping singer, who is up for video of the year, producer of the year and video director of the year, rounded out a two-day celebration of country's best at Wilderness Tours where this year's festival featured a slate of veteran performers as well as those talents breaking into the industry.

Joining Blaine on the beach-front stage Saturday was Canada's rockin' country band Ambush, who have just released their newest hit "Summertime Crazy," Blackwell, Sidewinder, Jordan McIntosh, the Claytones, and the Valley Shantymen. The main event on Friday's opening night was Tebey, whose top hit "We Shook Hands (Man to Man)", charted on the Billboard Hot Country Songs charts and was a top-five single on Canadian music charts. He has worked with Flo Rida and wrote and produced the One Direction tune, "They Don't Know About Us."

Crowds were also entertained by emerging Canadian artists Jacelyn Holmes, who is breaking through the international music market, and Olivia Charette, an Ottawa-born singer and songwriter who has strong roots in the region. Although she's only 19, Charette has been performing for years. During her high school years, she sang in front of school assemblies and at coffee houses, retirement homes, charity fundraisers, church celebrations, and on local television specials. She also gained early success entering country music singing competitions.

Coming off her Log Jam appearance, Charette remarked it's always great to sing in front of family, friends and her hometown fans. She now lives part-time in Round Lake Centre, where she spent her summers at the family cottage.

"It's completely amazing," said Charette, who recently performed at the Petawawa Relay for Life. "It's nice to have people from around the area support me."

Before her family discovered she had an incredible voice, Charette competed as a provincial-level figure skater for 11 years under the coach Donald Jackson. At age 14, she focused on music and began working with a professional vocal coach. She taught herself how to play guitar and began to write and record her own original material.

Last year, Charette was featured as an up-and-coming Canadian country music singer and songwriter on the AUX channel. These days, she is spending time in Nashville recording demo tracks, working with songwriters and networking. While it is a tough business to break into, Charette is hopeful.

"It has to be the right song and the right time," she explained. "Timing is everything."

Of course, she harbours the career ambitions of any country singer and hopes to, one day, perform at the Grand Ole Opry, known as country's most famous stage.

"That's definitely a dream of mine," she added. "That would be the pinnacle of everything."

Charette is bolstered by the success of Blaine, who is a friend of hers noting, "He is so professional and he puts on such a great show."

Charette is most influenced by Shania Twain, Kacey Musgraves and Miranda Lambert. She remains committed to the country music genre which has an element of honesty in its lyrics that people can identify with.

"It's coming from your heart and people can relate to that," she explained. "It's telling stories about yourself and things that you've gone through."

Sean Chase is a Daily Observer multimedia journalist

sean.chase@sunmedia.ca - Pembroke Daily Observer


"Reviews Like A Champ"

I was given Jacelyn Holmes EP As Is a few months ago at Chuckles for CHEO, a charity event to raise money for the Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario. After seeing Jacelyn perform at this event I was really excited to give the album a listen. A few months later I decided to write up a quick review of her debut EP as I’m hopeful that there is more music from her coming down the line.

Jacelyn Holmes debut EP As Is has already turned heads with her dynamic singing, song writing and musical talents. Within her first year on the scene Jacelyn Holmes won Original Song of the Year at the Niagara Music Awards for the song Growin’ Up, her debut EP’s opening track. The following year she won Adult Contemporary Artist of the Year. Jacelyn has come a long way from being the Grade 2 student in the film Billy Madison who couldn’t spell the word couch as she’s n ot only the singer, songwriter, with presumably correct spelling, and musician on her EP, but she’s also the producer.

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The EP is short and sweet. It teases the listener just enough to entice them to buy a full length album, whenever that happens to be released. Her tunes, for the most part, are catchy, and her melodies will stick in your head. But what will immediately grab your attention is her voice. Musically, Jacelyn’s EP has a very soft rock, alt-country feel to it, but you can just hear the jazz musician in Jacelyn’s voice dying to be unleashed. She has the smoky and sultry feel to that of a jazz singer with a well-rounded vocal range. Her voice is actually so captivating that it drowns out the accompaniment. Part of me almost wished it were an a cappella album because I think it would have been a much more intimate listening experience than to have to compete with the background piano and programmed drum beat kit.

jacelyn holmesThe EP is a fairly strong start for a new artist. It has its strengths and its weaknesses. But overall whatever weaknesses that may be found in the music or the lyrics are forgotten by the beautiful voice of Jacelyn Holmes. Her first song Growin’ Up is by far the best song on the EP. It draws you in from the first beat and never backs down from being a playful and pop-like exploration of love. Growin’ Up is also the song mentioned above which has won Jacelyn critical acclaim in the music industry. Circles is the second song on the EP and right off the bat it has a Sarah McLaughlin feel to it, but once Jacelyn comes in with those strong vocals and we, the listener, can hear the jazz screaming to be let loose in this soft rock ballad, it takes on a life of its own. Speechless is the third song on her EP and as the music starts all I can hear in my head is the start to the song: Waiting on the World to Change. Then when Jacelyn starts singing she takes the music in a completely opposite direction. And maybe that’s why I really like this song. I go into it expecting this very poppy optimistic fluff piece of a song and end up with a song that was still light and catchy, but much more unique than originally thought to be. I would almost say that this rivals Growin’ Up for my favourite song on the EP. My least favourite song on the EP is Let Me Go. Just the lyrical content alone reminds me of the 1940’s Dub Williams song Release Me. While yes, there is obviously nothing new under the sun, the inane repetition of the lyrics in this song, however, and yes even Jacelyn herself take a backseat to the music, which in truth sounds like it could be a musical interlude near the end of an album by The Rocket Summer. I don’t skip it when it comes on, but I definitely don’t always look forward to it.

jacelyn holmesI do like the EP. A lot. I’ve seen Jacelyn perform live at a charity event. It was just her, an acoustic guitar and a mic, and I wish that that would have been exactly what the album had sounded like. She is a great performer, a great musician with an amazing and beautiful voice, and I hope to see her live again someday. I would also love to see her release a jazz album because I truly believe that she would shine in that genre more than any other. - Mathew Champ


"Celebrity Pictures- Jacelyn Holmes"

Actress
Jacelyn Holmes is an actress, known for Billy Madison (1995), In the Mouth of Madness (1994) and The Ref (1994).

Known for: Billy Madison (1995), In the Mouth of Madness (1994), The Ref (1994), Power Pack (1991)
Source: IMDB, Jacelyn Holmes Net Worth - Celebrity Pictures


"Spirit of Brock Award - Jacelyn Holmes"

At the 2008 Fall Convocation, DART graduate Jacelyn Holmes received the Spirit of Brock award. The 23-year-old dramatic arts student received special recognition from the university for her academic work and contribution to life at the school. “Art is life!” she declared after receiving her award, which is given to one student who is deemed to embody the spirit of Sir Isaac Brock by inspiring other students. - Brock University


Discography

LP "OPEN" TBA (Spring, 2018)

Foreign Affairs

Hang On Tight

Quarter Past

Curiosa

Secret Garden 

This Dance

Dovetailing

Kaleidoscope

Someday

Stand Corrected

Fool

Single, "Waiting For Christmas", 2014 - National Radio play.

EP "As Is" released November, 2010

"Growin' Up" - Single from "As Is" (Original Song of the Year for Niagara Music Awards 2010)

"Speechless" - from "As Is" (won Adult Contemporary Artist of the Year and nominated for Music Video of the Year for Niagara Music Awards)

"Circles" - from "As Is" (Nominated for Songwriter of the Year for Niagara Music Awards)

"Let Me Go" - from "As Is" (Nominated for Female Vocalist of the Year for Niagara Music Awards)

Photos

Bio

If Marilyn Monroe and Amy Winehouse could conceive a child they would have had JACELYN.  A  captivating and seamless blend of sensual vulnerability and raw edginess, JACELYN's mesmerizing, smoky voice and sexily sweet charm draws in her audience.  

A singer, songwriter, and TV personality, JACELYN is one of Canada’s most exciting emerging musical artists who is breaking through the barriers of the international music market with her original compositions which fuse the elemental sounds of jazz, blues, and soul.  Following her showcase performance at the 2017 Juno Awards in Ottawa and the release of her heartfelt single, Fool, JACELYN is excited to be working on her upcoming album, OPEN with internationally recognized jazz pianist/composer/arranger Amina Figarova.

A seasoned entertainer, JACELYN recently performed at Invictus Games, Stars and Thunder Festival, TD Jazz Festival, Casa Loma’s Soul in the City, Nathan Philips Square, and select TIFF galas. This year she did 1 major tour through all 7 countries in Central America, and 3 mini tours (Asia/Philippines, Europe and Eastern Canada) 

JACELYN has had two feature film sync placements with her most recent EP.

JACELYN has received many awards including, Niagara Music Awards ‘Adult Contemporary Artist of the Year’ and ‘Original Song of the Year' (Growin’ Up).