Time: 8 p.m.

Cover: none

 Shannon Smith http://shannonsmith.ca/

Rarely does a performer come along with such unbridled energy, dedication and natural talent as that of Shannon Smith. Shannon has been singing and performing since the age of six, creating her own style while also influenced by the poise and traditionalism of Lorrie Morgan, the showmanship and flare of Shania Twain and the musical strength of Sheryl Crow. Her charming and sassy stage presence demands attention and connects her with her audience. No genre is off limits, whether it be driving country or classic rock, as is evident by her medleys of 80′s and dance hits.
Shannon was thrilled to be the 2009 winner of the Country 105/Lammle’s Rising Star Contest held at Ranchman’s in Calgary. She has graced the stage of several top-notch venues and events throughout Alberta, including the Big Valley Jamboree and the Alberta Pro Rodeo circuit. Most recently, she has opened for American country supergroup Lonestar as well as Johnny Reid, Duane Steele, Julian Austin and Aaron Pritchett.
Shannon released her debut album “Tell Me Something”, charting five singles that garnered her much attention at Canadian radio. Her fourth single “Settle Down” reached #2 on the Hot Country 50 chart in Queensland, Australia, landing her between Eric Church’s “Drink In My Hand” and Lady Antebellum’s “We Owned The Night”. “Take Me Drunk# I’m Home” and “Can’t Have My Heart” highlighted the overall strength of Shannon’s album.
Shannon is set to release her sophomore album in April 2013. The new album will feature nine tracks, including collaborations with Patricia Conroy, “Nashville Star” winner Angela# Hacker and songwriter Wade Kirby(I Saw God Today, George Strait). Along with her much-anticipated album release, Shannon is nominated for Female Vocalist Of The Yearby the Alberta Country Music Association. With the upcoming release of Shannon’s new IPhone artist app and her weekly webisode series, 2013 is promising to be a ground-breaking year.
While maintaining her girl-next-door charm and honest sincerity, Shannon Smith’s star continues to quickly rise. One thing is certain, this beautiful and talented singer’s unmistakable style and distinct sound is sure to draw rave reviews and serious attention throughout the music industry.
Meet the Band
Shannon Smith delivers live shows full of energy, fun and great music. Shannon’s band consists of several talented, local musicians who have performed with her for the last several years.
Kristin Friesen
Bass Guitar, Background Vocals
The newcomer to the band, Kristin started playing guitar at age 9 and taught herself by ear. She soon started writing songs and recording, playing a variety of instruments, influenced by soul, rock, folk, country and funk artists including Prince, Joni Mitchell, Chaka Khan and Bonnie Raitt. Kristin joined the Shannon Smith Band in 2013 and brings a rock-solid groove and incredible spirit to the group.
She is thrilled to be playing bass and singing alongside Shannon and is looking forward to interacting with Shannon’s loyal following.
Rob Levesque
Piano/Keyboards, Lead/Background Vocals
Influenced heavily by his family’s musical background, Rob performed for several years in his first band Wrangler, which included his parents and sister. Wrangler performed throughout B.C. and Alberta through 2004. Following this, Rob worked with party band Foolisheart and country recording artist Rob Russell, further expanding his musical stylings to include a variety of different genres.
He has opened for Colin James, Chris Cummings, The Stampeders, Hey Romeo and The Trews among others and has also worked alongside Aaron Lines and Six West. Rob’s vocals are a must hear and his inspiring musicianship creates an exciting dynamic within the Shannon Smith Band.
Wade Saliba
Lead Guitar
Wade first picked up a guitar at the age of 10 and never looked back. Graduating in 1986 from the Guitar Institute of Technology in Hollywood, CA, it took two years before he would return home. Over the next 14 years Wade toured across Canada in such bands as Sweet Lucy, The Brett Barrow Band, and Desert Moon. He then spent two years floating the Caribbean on Carnival Cruise Lines playing in the Show Band and rockin’ passengers in the back lounge with the Dirt Poets.
Happy to have his land legs back, and helping to raise his two young children, Wade is excited to be in the next chapter of his music career with the Shannon Smith Band. Wade’s energetic, ear-catching style is unmatched no matter what genre he plays.
Dale Wiens
Drums/Percussion, Lead/Background Vocals
Dale began playing professionally every weekend at age 21 during his tenure in the Canadian Armed Forces, after which he began touring with his band The Prairie Dogs. For the next six years, the Prairie Dogs performed shows throughout Canada, opening for rock bands such as Trooper, The Headpins, Toronto and Prism.
Since 2001, Dale has been one of the most respected and talented freelance drummers in the Calgary area performing alongside a variety of talented local singers. His influences range from Van Halen to Vince Gill. In the Shannon Smith Band, Dale brings an unmatched groove, style, humor and energy to the stage – plus he can sing as well!