When horsemen around the country turn on the radio as they head off to the barn this morning, they might find themselves singing along to a song by a Nashville performing artist and songwriter they know more about
than they think.
That music artist is 24-year-old Steve Rivers, the son of Costas and Nancy Demetrious, who own and operate the Nassagaweya Vet Lab in Campbellville, Ont. Rivers’ first single from his new record called “Uncomplicated” was released to Canadian radio stations today and will hit U.S. airwaves in February.
The up-and-coming artist describes his style as a mix of country, rock, blues, and Americana, and while his musical inspirations are always changing, he says the great Tom Petty remains one of his biggest idols.
“At the end of the day I guess my biggest concern (or intent) is that my music comes across as honest and relatable because I think that’s what people truly want to hear," he said in a recent interview with Trot Magazine (click here to view the December feature). "That’s what I love most about country music, it’s not egotistical; it’s music about the people for the people. No smoke and mirrors here.”
Rivers, who one summer graced the harness racing community with his musical talent at Mohawk Racetrack during their Summer Concert Series, moved to Nashville to pursue his passion after graduating from Fanshawe College where he studied music industry.
“Nashville is a city with a small-town atmosphere so everybody knows everybody. It’s great because there’s a real community feel amongst songwriters and musicians. I’ve made so many friends here over the last few years, which have opened some big doors for me. I’ve had opportunities to write with some major hit songwriters, work in some great studios, and received an artist development and management deal. I’ve also had opportunities to write with other upcoming artists.”
Rivers’ new album is expected to be released in March 2012. Until then fans can listen for his single on radio stations across Canada and the U.S. The single is also available for purchase on iTunes, Amazon, and CD Baby and can be previewed below.