Backstage Lowdown

Lance Dawson and Andrew Stewart
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Music Interviews
  • Biweekly

Backstage Lowdown takes you behind the music with in-depth interviews featuring some of Canada's most exciting artists and entertainers. Hosted by Lance Dawson and Andrew Stewart, the podcast uncovers the stories, struggles, inspirations, and career-defining moments that audiences rarely get to hear. Whether you're a passionate music fan, an aspiring musician, or simply love great conversations, Backstage Lowdown delivers authentic insights from the people creating the soundtrack of our lives.

  1. 5d ago

    Rupert Harvey of Messenjah: Canadian Reggae, “No More” & Stories from the Road

    Join Backstage Lowdown for a conversation with Rupert “Ojiji”  Harvey of Messenjah, exploring the band’s roots in Kitchener, Ontario, their remarkable journey through Canadian reggae history, and the music that continues to bring a message of love and peace. After his time with Crack of Dawn, Rupert helped establish Messenjah in Kitchener, where an early breakthrough performing for university audiences helped the band build a dedicated following. From there, Messenjah went on to achieve major career milestones, earning a Juno Award and other honours, recording in California, signing with Warner Brothers, and taking their music to international audiences. In this interview, Rupert reflects on some incredible moments, including performing at Reggae Sunsplash in Jamaica, appearing in the film Cocktail, and playing for Nelson Mandela at the launch of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund at the SkyDome. We also discuss Messenjah’s latest release, “No More,” a song that speaks to the need for love and peace in a troubled world. Rupert shares his thoughts on the band’s organic approach to songwriting, why music shouldn’t be created simply to satisfy streaming algorithms or short attention spans, and how reggae continues to influence music around the world. IN THIS EPISODE: Messenjah’s beginnings in Kitchener, Ontario Rupert Harvey’s journey from Crack of Dawn to Messenjah The early Waterloo Inn show that helped build the band’s following The story and message behind “No More” Messenjah’s Juno Award and recording in California Signing with Warner Brothers Performing at Reggae Sunsplash in Jamaica Messenjah’s appearance in Cocktail Rupert’s unforgettable experience performing for Nelson Mandela Staying independent and keeping songwriting authentic Plans for outdoor festivals in 2027 and a possible return to Southwestern Ontario If you love Canadian music history, reggae, and the stories behind the artists who helped shape the scene, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 👍 LIKE this video if you enjoyed the conversation.💬 COMMENT below: What’s your favourite Messenjah song or memory?🔔 SUBSCRIBE to Backstage Lowdown for more conversations with the musicians, artists, and personalities behind the music. 🎧 Listen to Backstage Lowdown on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and your favourite podcast platform. 📺 Watch more episodes on YouTube. Backstage Lowdown, where the real stories live. #Messenjah #RupertHarvey #CanadianMusic #Reggae #BackstageLowdown

  2. Oct 6

    Noah Kosta: From Jazz to Pop, Big Bands & Finding His Voice

    What happens when a 22 year old vocalist brings jazz, pop, big band and classic songwriting together to find his own voice? On this episode of Backstage Lowdown, we sit down with Canadian vocalist and songwriter Noah Kosta to talk about his rapidly developing career, musical influences and the journey behind his debut album. Noah's musical world stretches from jazz and pop to the influence of his grandfather and classic vocalists, giving him a remarkably diverse musical perspective at just 22. He shares what it's like performing with a 20 piece big band, working in smaller jazz quartets and developing his own sound as a solo artist. We also get into the reality of balancing a growing music career with university studies at the University of Toronto, the role mentors have played in his development, and what he's learned about songwriting, performing and finding his place in the Canadian music scene. Noah opens up about vocal development, songwriting, mentorship, performing live and what's next for his career, including his desire to continue exploring different sides of the music industry. If you're a fan of Canadian music, jazz, pop, emerging artists, vocalists, songwriting and behind-the-scenes musician interviews, this is a conversation you'll want to hear. Listen to Noah Kosta's story and hear where this young Canadian vocalist is headed next.

  3. Sep 26

    Capturing Rock ’n’ Roll: Bob Gruen on Lennon, The Clash & Tina Turner

    In this interview, legendary rock photographer Bob Gruen discusses his illustrious career and artistic philosophy. He shares insights into creating iconic album covers, such as John Lennon's "Walls and Bridges", emphasizing his preference for capturing spontaneous energy over sterile studio settings. Gruen reflects on his experiences with artists like The Clash and Tina Turner, noting how personal relationships enhance his work. He also address the impact of digital technology on photography and the music industry, observing how instant accessibility has changed professional landscapes. Finally, he promotes his autobiography, "Right Place, Right Time," and on upcoming gallery exhibition in Toronto at the Liss Gallery.

  4. Aug 17

    Alan Gerber on Blues, Folk & Jazz: Chicago Roots and a Life in Canadian Music

    In this episode of Backstage Lowdown, we sit down with Alan Gerber, the Chicago-born singer-songwriter, blues musician, pianist, guitarist, painter, and Canadian roots music icon (is there anything this guy can’t do) whose career has spanned more than five decades. Known for blending Chicago blues, folk, jazz, roots, and storytelling, Alan shares the experiences that shaped his unique artistic voice, from his early musical influences in Chicago to his long and celebrated career in Canada’s folk and blues scene. This is not the usual musician interview. We explore the deeper side of creativity, performance, songwriting, and artistic survival in an ever-changing music industry. If you enjoy Chicago blues, Canadian folk music, roots rock, jazz influenced songwriting, and in depth artist interviews, this conversation with Alan Gerber is a must listen. Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and wherever you get your podcasts. This Episode is sponsored by Look Digital Marketing; find them at https://lookmarketing.ca/ #AlanGerber #ChicagoBlues #CanadianMusic #RootsMusic #BackstageLowdown Alan Gerber interview, Chicago blues musician, Canadian folk singer-songwriter, roots music podcast, blues podcast interview, folk music interview, Canadian blues artist, jazz folk roots music, songwriter podcast, Backstage Lowdown podcast, Alan Gerber Chicago, Canadian roots music legend, storytelling songwriter, blues and folk conversation.

  5. Aug 10

    Charlie Angus on The Grievous Angels, Joe Strummer & Strummerfest Waterloo 2026

    In this special Strummerfest Waterloo 2026 episode of Backstage Lowdown, we sit down with Charlie Angus: musician, author, activist, and founding member of The Grievous Angels. Charlie shares the story behind the band, reflects on decades of creating music rooted in Northern Ontario, and discusses why Joe Strummer’s spirit of community, resistance, and honest songwriting still matters today. The conversation also explores touring memories, the evolution of Canadian roots and folk-rock, the connection between music and social change, and what fans can expect when The Grievous Angels take the stage for Strummerfest 2026 on August 14th at the Jazz Room, Uptown Waterloo. If you love Canadian music podcasts, roots rock, folk-rock storytelling, punk-inspired songwriting, and behind the scenes conversations with influential musicians, this episode is for you. The origins of The Grievous Angels Charlie Angus’ journey from Cobalt, Ontario to the Canadian music scene The influence of Joe Strummer and The Clash Why Strummerfest Waterloo is more than just a music festival Songwriting inspired by Northern Ontario history and working-class stories Balancing music, writing, and activism Thoughts on the current Canadian roots and folk-rock landscape Memorable touring and recording experiences Rapid fire music questions and backstage stories This episode is perfect for fans of: The Grievous Angels Charlie Angus Canadian roots rock Folk-rock podcasts Joe Strummer / The Clash Strummerfest Waterloo 2026 Canadian music interviews Independent music festivals Backstage stories from touring musicians Charlie Angus is widely known as a Canadian musician, author, broadcaster, and former Member of Parliament. As the driving force behind The Grievous Angels, he has spent decades blending roots rock, folk, country, and punk energy into songs that celebrate Northern Ontario, community, and social justice. The band has earned a devoted following for its authentic storytelling, powerful live performances, and distinctly Canadian voice. This episode highlights Strummerfest 2026, the free annual music festival in Uptown Waterloo, Ontario, inspired by the legacy of Joe Strummer. The festival brings together punk, alternative, ska, folk, and roots artists for a community-focused celebration of independent music and culture, August 15th, from 12 pm to 11 pm. 🎧 Backstage Lowdown is available on: YouTube Spotify Apple Podcasts Amazon Music iHeart Radio Other major podcast platforms If you enjoyed this conversation, please follow, rate, and review the podcast. Your support helps us continue bringing in-depth interviews with Canadian musicians and music industry storytellers. Listen & Subscribe Digital Marketing Solutions With Look Will Transform Your Brand #BackstageLowdown #CharlieAngus #TheGrievousAngels #Strummerfest #StrummerfestWaterloo #WaterlooOntario #CanadianMusic #CanadianMusicians #RootsRock #FolkRock #AltCountry #JoeStrummer #TheClash #MusicPodcast #PodcastInterview #CanadianPodcast #LiveMusic #IndependentMusic #OntarioMusic #NorthernOntario #CobaltOntario #Songwriting #BehindTheMusic #FestivalSeason #RootsMusic #FolkMusic #RockAndRoll #MusicLovers #PodcastLife #YouTubePodcast

  6. Jul 21

    JUNO Winner Errol Starr Reveals the Story Behind His Incredible Music Career, Tribes & "Memories"

    JUNO Award winner Errol Starr joins Backstage Lowdown! In this episode, hosts Lance Dawson and Andrew Stewart sit down with Errol Starr, the Jamaican-born, England-raised, Canada-based singer-songwriter, composer, and JUNO Award-winning recording artist, for an engaging conversation about his remarkable career in music. Errol shares the story behind his rise from high school Battle of the Bands competitions to international success in the 1980s, his transition from performing on stage to producing music in his home studio, and the creative journey that led to his current band, Tribz, and their latest single, "Memories." What blew our minds was that he is also a UN Peace Ambassador! The episode wraps up with our signature Backstage Lowdown Speed Round, where Errol answers a series of fun, fast-paced questions you won't want to miss. Whether you're a musician, songwriter, music fan, or simply love hearing the stories behind the songs, this interview offers inspiration, insight, and plenty of memorable moments. 🎧 Subscribe for more in-depth interviews with musicians, songwriters, producers, and music industry professionals from Canada and around the world. #ErrolStarr #Tribz #Memories #BackstageLowdown #JUNOAwards #CanadianMusic #MusicPodcast #Songwriter #MusicInterview #MusicProducer #BehindTheMusic #IndieMusic #RockMusic #MusicIndustry #HomeStudio #RecordingStudio #VintageGear #KitchenerWaterloo #CanadianArtists #PeaceAmbassador #UN #NewMusic #Podcast #YouTubeMusic #LanceDawson #AndrewStewart

  7. Jul 19

    Backstage Lowdown Official Podcast Trailer

    Backstage Lowdown takes you beyond the stage and into the conversations that most people never get to hear. This is where the real stories live, not the polished performances, but the moments before the lights come up and after the applause long fades. The nerves, the laughs, the chaos, the triumphs, and the unexpected moments that make music come alive. Every episode features honest, unfiltered conversations with musicians, songwriters, and industry insiders. You never know who's about to walk through the door or where the conversation will lead and that's exactly what makes it special. If you love music and the stories behind it, you're in the right place. Subscribe, listen, and remember... You're officially backstage.

  8. Jun 11

    Skye Wallace: Recording with Matt Mays, Touring Canada & Finding Her Voice

    In this episode, Backstage Lowdown sit down with Canadian singer-songwriter Skye Wallace for an in-depth conversation about her music career, creative process, and life on the road. Skye shares the story of her musical journey, from releasing her first EP in 2009 to creating new music and preparing for her latest album release. She discusses collaborating with Matt Mays during the pandemic, recording songs in a unique barn studio setting, and how her sound has evolved from her punk-rock roots into the gritty, deeply personal style that defines her music today. The conversation also explores the realities of being an independent artist, balancing motherhood with a demanding music career, touring, songwriting, and making sustainable choices in today's music industry. If you're a fan of Canadian music, singer-songwriters, alternative rock, folk-rock, indie music, or behind-the-scenes stories from working musicians, this interview is for you. #SkyeWallace #CanadianMusic #SingerSongwriter #IndieMusic #AlternativeRock #MattMays #MusicInterview #CanadianArtist #Songwriting #IndependentMusic #PodcastInterview

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About

Backstage Lowdown takes you behind the music with in-depth interviews featuring some of Canada's most exciting artists and entertainers. Hosted by Lance Dawson and Andrew Stewart, the podcast uncovers the stories, struggles, inspirations, and career-defining moments that audiences rarely get to hear. Whether you're a passionate music fan, an aspiring musician, or simply love great conversations, Backstage Lowdown delivers authentic insights from the people creating the soundtrack of our lives.

Information

  • Creator
    Lance Dawson and Andrew Stewart
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    60
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Lance Dawson and Andrew Stewart
  • Show Website
    Backstage Lowdown