Toronto’s Cory Stewart Returns for “One More Day With You” in Raw and Reflective New Dance-Pop Single
TORONTO, ON (March 5, 2024) – On April 5, 2024, Canadian pop singer and writer Cory Stewart makes his triumphant return to music with his latest dance-pop single, “One More Day With You”. This heartfelt anthem, written during a poignant moment in Stewart’s life, encapsulates the raw emotion and gratefulness for one more day with a cherished loved one.
PRE-SAVE THE SONG HERE: https://lnk.to/coryomdwy
“One More Day With You” is more than just a song; it’s a reflection of Stewart’s self-discovery. Written in the summer of 2023 during a time of uncertainty and emotional turmoil, the track captures the essence of Stewart’s experience as he faced the possibility of losing someone dear to him. Infused with an introspective earthy essence and enriched by nature-based sound samples (recorded by Stewart), the song immerses listeners in a world of emotion and self-discovery.
Produced by longtime collaborator and JUNO winner Gavin Bradley, “One More Day With You” showcases Stewart’s evolution as an artist while staying true to his signature sound. With its upbeat tempo and infectious melodies, the song is a testament to Stewart’s ability to craft music that resonates authentically with audiences across the globe.
Speaking about the inspiration behind “One More Day With You” and his upcoming album, Cory Stewart shares, “This song is something I hope others will relate to. The concept of taking something so precious for granted in our lives and being faced with a moment where we may lose it. Whether that’s a parent, loved one, friend, or even ourselves – this song is a reminder for me to cherish those I hold close to my heart.”
Offering fans a taste of what’s to come, ”One More Day With You” is the first of several upcoming singles set to be released from Stewart’s as-of-yet untitled sophomore album. With Stewart’s unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries and exploring new sonic territories, listeners can expect the unexpected with each upcoming release,
About Cory Stewart:
Cory Stewart (The Orchard) has been described as a wickedly witty pop artist with a “smooth voice” (Billboard, 2020) who creates “fearless, unapologetic and relentlessly catchy” music (Canadian Beats, 2018). Cory has been a supporting act for several legendary artists including Boy George and Crystal Waters. Stewart’s debut album ‘TOV’ was released in January 2021, hitting #9 on the iTunes Pop Charts and receiving overwhelming praise from critics.
A Royal Conservatory of Music vocal program graduate, Stewart has been a songwriter and student of music since the age of seven, receiving accolades from numerous music festivals across Canada. Cory has also toured and performed in several countries around the world including the United States, Canada, Germany, the Netherlands and Austria.
Cory recently completed The QUEERANTINE North American tour for which he was recognized with an award from the 2022 Wavy Awards for his work in the Queer music community.
Website: http://www.coryjstewart.com
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/coryjstewart
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6chEgA34uO3ZPksMEbnaZf?si=y5GHbQgCS9afRLSw8Ummyw
Toronto’s Top QTBIPOC Emerging Artists and Creators Set to Deck the Halls at the “One & Only Artist Market” this December
Toronto’s Top QTBIPOC Emerging Artists and Creators Set to Deck the Halls at the “One & Only Artist Market” this December
TORONTO, ON (November 9, 2023) - No more resting Grinch face! Holiday shopping is about to “sleigh” thanks to SKETCH Working Arts’ ‘One & Only Artist Market’ returning December 9-10, 2023 from 2:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at SKETCH Studios (180 Shaw Street, lower level). Gift-givers this year will have the chance to shop from over 40 QTBIPOC emerging artists and creators featuring handmade and unique pieces, including jewelry, ceramics, upcycled apparel, stickers, handmade books, zines and more. Now in its fifth year, 100% of the proceeds from all sales during the holiday market go directly to the artists.
Open to the public and boasting free admission, the ‘One & Only Artist Market’ is one of the countless initiatives SKETCH offers through its wraparound community arts support that engages Queer, Trans, Black, Indigenous and other racialized young people so they can meet their basic needs, explore their creativity and become builders of creative communities. In 2022, SKETCH engaged over 400 program participants and generated $239,740 for young people within the community. As one of the most unique QTBIPOC holiday markets in the city, the ‘One & Only Artist Market’ is a lifeline for artists during one of the most trying financial times of the year.
”Since coming to SKETCH, I feel more confident identifying as an artist with my skills and knowledge, only growing more and more,” remarks a previous SKETCH participant. “The more I engage in this community, the more I meet other artists as well. Coming to SKETCH has given me a reliable source of artistic mentorship. I know that if I have a project I am working towards, I can count on SKETCH for solid feedback.”
“As we gear up for the festive season, we look forward to coming together to uplift our QTBIPOC artists and creators,” says Paulina O’Kieffe-Anthony, the Executive Director of SKETCH. “By supporting the ‘One & Only Artist Market’, you not only bring joy to your loved ones but also help foster a nurturing environment where young artists can thrive and build a stronger, more inclusive creative community together.”
For more updates on SKETCH and the ‘One & Only Artist Market’, visit sketch.ca or follow SKETCH on Instagram at @sketchtoronto.
About SKETCH Working Arts:
SKETCH Working Arts is a community arts and arts education organization that engages young Queer, Trans, and Black, Indigenous, other racialized people, as well as those navigating poverty, living houseless. SKETCH provides programming in Arts Leadership, Arts Production and Arts Wellness so that young people can build skills and capacities to become powerful change agents through arts and culture. We believe in the power of the arts to heal, illuminate, bring together, and catalyze action to make change.
Website: https://www.sketch.ca/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sketchtoronto/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SketchArtsProgramming
X: https://twitter.com/SKETCHToronto
Documentary Exploring 40 Years of Toronto’s Queer History To Hit Toronto’s Inside Out Film Festival in Star Studded Gala Event
TORONTO, ON (March 9, 2023) – On the evening of May 30, 2023, hundreds of Toronto’s most influential 2SLGBTQIA+ leaders and influencers will attend the Inside Out Toronto 2SLGBTQ+ Film Festival Centrepiece Gala screening of Supporting Our Selves (SOS) at the TIFF Bell Lightbox (350 King St W, Toronto, ON M5V 3X5). From award-winning director Lulu Wei (There’s No Place Like This Place, Anyplace), SOS is a film exploring how and why the Queer community in Toronto, Canada has grown and evolved over the past 40 years, through the lens of one grassroots organization and its impact.
Watch the trailer for Supporting Our Selves (SOS) here.
In 1980s Toronto, when most queer people lived under the radar and sexual orientation wasn’t yet included in the human rights code, a little-known organization called the Community One Foundation quietly began its work (known then as The Gay Community Appeal). What started as discreet ‘SOS’ fundraisers held in private homes, blossomed into a foundation that supports a multitude of organizations including many pillars of the queer Canadian experience including The 519, Inside Out, Buddies in Bad Times Theatre, The Pink Triangle Press, Sherbourne Health Centre, the Bill 7 Award, and the Canadian Lesbian & Gay Archives.
Through the vital activism of its subjects, Supporting Our Selves paints a vivid portrait of a queer Toronto and its complexities. Along the way, we meet Christopher, a trans woman from Uganda who, although having only been in Canada a few years, has already started her own organization to support queer African refugees like herself, leZlie lee kam, a tireless lifelong activist for queer people of colour who is constantly looking for ways to support queer and trans people of all ages, Jay, who is creating space and support for 2SLGBTQIA+ people with disabilities, and the passionate group of individuals who were inspired to work together to launch Community One Foundation, 40 years ago.
“Our 40+ year history is rich with powerful and moving stories of how the 2SLGBTQIA+ community has come together to help one another in Toronto,” says Sam Katz, Community One Foundation Co-Chair. “We are thrilled this incredible team of filmmakers have chosen to help share and examine the story of Community One Foundation, and can’t wait to celebrate this milestone together at Canada’s top 2SLGBTQ+ Film Festival.”
A limited amount of tickets to the screening are available to the public by visiting https://insideout.ca/toronto-films/centrepiece-gala-supporting-our-selves/.
About Community One Foundation:
Established in 1980 as the Lesbian and Gay Community Appeal, Community One Foundation provides grants to 2SLGBTQIA+ community projects in Greater Toronto Area including Durham, Halton, Peel and York Regions, focusing on the areas of arts and culture, health and social services, and research and education. The Foundation also promotes community philanthropy through strategic partnerships such as the Bill 7 Award and the LGBT Giving Network.
Website: www.communityone.ca
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CommunityOneFoundation
Twitter: www.twitter.com/C1Foundation
Instagram: www.instagram.com/C1Foundation
About Inside Out:
The 33rd annual Inside Out Toronto 2SLGBTQ+ Film Festival is taking place May 25-June 4! For over 30 years, Inside Out has worked to bring the community together through giving their audience new opportunities to engage with 2SLGBTQ+ stories through the medium of film. Celebrating queer cinema with in-person screenings at TIFF Bell Lightbox, and digitally streaming online Ontario-wide, join @insideoutfestival this summer!
All Queer Indie Music Event Creates New Performance Platform for 2SLGBTQIA+ Artists
QUEER MUSIC SOCIAL hosts its inaugural event in downtown Toronto with some the city’s top Queer artists, including JUNO nominated Tafari Anthony, Michelle Mondesir, IAMREBELWILL and Cory Stewart
TORONTO, ON (January 5, 2023) – Toronto’s music scene is gaining a new outlet for Queer musicians come January 26, 2023 with the inaugural QUEER MUSIC SOCIAL presented by pop musician Cory Stewart. Featuring a lineup of some of the city’s top Queer talent including Michelle Mondesir, IAMREBELWILL, Tafari Anthony and Stewart, QUEER MUSIC SOCIAL will provide a platform outside of Pride celebrations for Queer musicians to be seen, heard and celebrated.
With 92% of LGBT consumers considering themselves passionate music fans (GLAAD, 2016), QUEER MUSIC SOCIAL fills a big void in the Toronto Queer music community. Taking place in the Queer owned and operated new west end hot spot Boombox Toronto (647 College Street), the evening promises to be a community-building extravaganza for both performers and attendees alike.
QUEER MUSIC SOCIAL initially began in 2020 as an online artist community, in which Cory Stewart hosted special guests such as music PR expert Eric Alper and 604 Records (Marianas Trench, Carly Rae Jepsen) President Jonathan Simkin for Q&A style sessions. The monthly event provided an opportunity for 2SLGBTQIA+ indie artists to get a peek behind the curtain of the music industry through an intimate and informal chat with numerous industry experts.
“Both being Queer and trying to navigate the music industry can make a person feel very isolated. The vision with QUEER MUSIC SOCIAL is to provide a safe space for 2SLGBTQIA+ artists and music fans to connect and feel a sense of community – all while enjoying some of the best artistry our city has to offer,” says Cory Stewart. “As wonderful as Pride celebrations are, there are few platforms servicing the needs of our community the other 11 months of the year and my hope is that this may provide a solution to that problem.”
Tickets for QUEER MUSIC SOCIAL ($15 advance, $20 door) are now on sale at www.queermusicsocial.com.
About Cory Stewart:
Cory Stewart (AWAL/Kobalt) has been described as a wickedly witty pop artist with “smooth voice” (Billboard, 2020) that creates “fearless, unapologetic and relentlessly catchy” music (Canadian Beats, 2018). Cory has been a supporting act for a number of legendary artists including Boy George and Crystal Waters. Stewart’s debut album ‘TOV’ was released in January 2021, hitting #9 on the iTunes Pop Charts and receiving overwhelming praise from critics.
Stewart recently completed the seven-city QUEERANTINE Tour across the United States, for which he received a 2022 Wavy Award. He is about to release a new EP entitled “SH/EETS” which will hit all streaming platforms on January 27, 2023.
Twitter: www.twitter.com/coryjstewart
Instagram: www.instagram.com/coryjstewart
Website: www.coryjstewart.com
ABOUT THE ARTISTS:
Tafari Anthony
Tafari (pronounced Ta-far-eye) Anthony is a JUNO nominated artist whose music blends pop, soul and alternative. Known for his sleek vocal tones, sultry melodies and music which oozes with personality, Tafari leaves listeners in awe – somewhat apt considering his name means “He who inspires awe”.
Tafari has spent much of his career working behind the scenes with various artists. He has written and vocal produced for Juno nominated artists (Tanika Charles, Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar), and Drag Race royalty (Priyanka, Katya) among others. His authentically humble but powerful performance style has kept him as an in-demand vocalist throughout the country, allowing him to have toured through Europe, Canada, the United States, and even a stint in South Korea.
Tafari has seen success with his music garnering acclaim from the likes of PAPER Magazine, Billboard, Gay Times, Earmilk and MTV to name a few. His latest EP “The Way You See Me” was released to critical acclaim from PAPER Magazine & Billboard in November 2020 & nominated for a 2022 JUNO Award for Adult Contemporary Album of The Year.
Michelle Mondesir
Michelle Mondesir has always had a passion for music. She is a singer, songwriter, pianist and producer but also the CEO of the recording studio Poetic Groove Productions.
Her accomplishments over the past 10 years is quite impressive as she’s been nominated and won a number of awards.
Though currently fronting the indie alt-rock band Madame Psychosis which has produced two successful albums, she also released 17 solo R&B songs in 2019.
Michelle released “Give Me All Your Lovin’” on Nov 1st, which BuzzMusic refers to as “a few minutes of musical bliss and delicacy” and EARMILK says that “(Michelle) has a natural talent for crafting soul- gripping musical arrangements”. More recently, Michelle released “Sunday Sun” on Dec 9th, which BuzzMusic calls “a song of hope and love” and says “the vocal performance is absolutely flawless.” Furthermore Reignland says, “The song consists of soulful vocals over a hip hop undertone and beautiful harmonies that add fire to the already outstanding song.”
2020 proved to be a difficult and frustrating year but also inspired Michelle to write “Crazy World” released on June 25th, which She Makes Music describes as “honest and inspirational”. Later Michelle featured Toronto-based artist pHoenix Pagliacci of TRP.P on her single “Look What You Started.”
Most recently Michelle teamed up with Cory Stewart on his debut album “TOV” (released Jan 22 2021) for the uptempo pop track “End of Me” which Metro Weekly refers to as “a showstopper of a dance track” and UK-based Culture Fix calls “a dreamy and intoxicating number that ponders how a relationship can deteriorate…[that is] ethereal and emotive”.
Michelle looks forward to working with Madame Psychosis on their third studio album as well as continued R&B work.
IAMREBELWILL
Born and raised in bilingual Montreal, Toronto-based pop entertainer, IAMREBELWILL is influenced by the showmanship of Janet Jackson, the eclectic artistry of Andre 3000 and the vibes and feels of Kaytranada.
His EP RebelFuturism, the artist is using his voice to challenge the stereotypical perspective in mainstream pop music and help empower the underrepresented LGTBQ+ and POC community to be fearlessly themselves. RebelFuturism, is seductive, contemporary pop, soaked in the neon bleached nightclub vibes of house bass-lines, infused with irresistible pop hooks and melodies. “It’s a soundtrack for modernity, addressing sexuality, sexual fluidity, identity and equality,” says Rebel. “As a proud queer black man I wanted to create something that gave a voice to my experience and a voice to folks whose stories the majority of time are not told.”
For more information, photo and interview requests, please contact:
Danielle Watson, EDPR, danielle@embracedisruption.com
Critically Acclaimed Madonna-themed Podcast “Inside The Groove” Returns For Third Smash Season
“With both humor and skill, Russell unfurls the history behind Madonna’s work and isolates specific elements of multitrack recordings to get to the heart of what makes her tunes tick.”
- The New York Times
TORONTO, ON (May 12, 2021) - Music does indeed make the people come together, as Edward Russell quickly learned after launching his ‘story behind the Madonna songs’ themed podcast, Inside The Groove. Initially released in 2020 to coincide with the 30th anniversary of Vogue — possibly Madonna’s best known and most enduring hit — Inside The Groove has fascinated fans and captured critic’s attention, becoming a new staple on the podcast music charts. Now beginning its third season of uncovering the stories behind the songs, Inside The Groove has also picked up a nomination for a Canadian Podcast Award.
After pouring through hundreds of articles about the origins of Madonna songs, Russell soon realized he had an opportunity (and the knowledge) to fill in the blanks for many of the Queen of pop’s most celebrated songs. Keen to put a particular focus on the stories behind the songs, Russell launched his first episode soon after the world shut down, and it became an instant hit.
“Madonna courts controversy which sometimes overshadows the music, but as a songwriter, she’s not often given the credit she deserves,” says Russell. “Like A Prayer was written in just a few hours with her collaborator Pat Leonard sat at a keyboard while she lay on the floor and wrote the melody and lyrics. She recorded the vocals an hour later, and that was it – she never sang it again.”
Word of mouth soon spread, and as the podcast covered other Madonna songs like Music and Hung Up, it started to garner even more attention. Especially when Savage Garden singer Darren Hayes – a massive Madonna fan himself – was interviewed.
Now, as the podcast enters its third season, after glowing reviews from publications like The New York Times and The Guardian, it also receives an Outstanding Foreign Series nomination at the Canadian Podcast Awards.
“This nomination is an incredible honour. I’m just a guy in his home office, trying to do a day job but also keep up the momentum. Sometimes I pinch myself at its success. I’m a bit of a statistics freak, so I couldn’t believe when at one point it was the most listened to artist-specific podcast in the world,” says Russell. “It proves that Madonna’s music has stood the test of time. Artists like Billie Eilish and Taylor Swift are ruling the charts, but the success of Inside The Groove shows that Madonna’s music still remains an important piece of our culture.”
To listen to Inside the Groove, visit: https://smarturl.it/ITGMadonna
To vote for Inside The Groove in the Canadian Podcast Awards, visit: https://canpodawards.ca/vote/foreign/
About Inside The Groove:
Inside The Groove is a podcast that tells the story behind Madonna’s most famous songs. Hosted by Edward Russell, each episode focuses on a particular Madonna track or era, discussing the creative process, along with how each song was received. With reference to music videos and live performances, each episode often references snippets from individual track multitrack sessions.
Website: insidethegroove.co.uk
Twitter: twitter.com/insidethegroove
Instagram: instagram.com/insidethegroove1
Cory Stewart Lures Listeners Into a ‘Perfect World’ with New Double Release Single
Toronto-based pop singer collaborates with Los Angeles synth pop duo Slow Dance and UK producer Edward Russell for slick new single, done two ways.
TORONTO, ON (May 10, 2021) – Hot off the heels of his critically acclaimed #9 charting iTunes album release in late January, Cory Stewart is back – and this time, he has his fans hearing double. Cory Stewart is excited to announce the release of ‘Perfect World’ on May 28, 2021, a new dance-pop single interpreted in two distinct ways, defined as the Red Pill Edition and the Blue Pill Edition.
‘Perfect World’ was conceptualized by Stewart and Slow Dance in mid 2020, after Stewart expressed his desire to “auto-tune the world” to his co-collaborators. The song quickly materialized in the hands of Jacob and Alex (of Slow Dance), with lyrics eventually being finessed by the pair and Stewart in followup Zoom sessions. The result is the hyperpop, slick and sexy Red Pill Edition, which takes no prisoners on its ascension to the world’s soon-to-be-opened dance floors.
Soon after the creation of ‘Perfect World’, with lockdown time on his hands and a penchant for always wanting to do things differently, Cory sought out the help of UK-based producer and artist Edward Russell – whom he had met online after discovering Russell’s New York Times celebrated Madonna-themed podcast, ‘Inside The Groove‘. Russell immediately took to the song, and created the nostalgia inducing, 80s-meets-00’s Blue Pill Edition of ‘Perfect World’, which inspired Cory to market the single as a double release.
“I can’t explain my utter delight in having the opportunity to work with both Slow Dance and (Edward) Russell on this track,” says Stewart. “Perfect World is meant to be an escape from the dread and doom that we’re facing day-to-day as we continue to fight this devastating pandemic, and I can only hope that our work will transport listeners for 4 minutes, to an alternate world, where they can dance, sing and party – if only for a short while.”
Stewart released his debut album ‘TOV’ in January 2021 to critical acclaim, with press calling it “expertly-crafted”, “ever-catchy” and a “no-skip, heavy-hitting pop album with a voice and direction unlike any other”. Charting #9 on iTunes and celebrating over 500,000 stream counts to date, ‘TOV’ continues to be touted as one of the best indie-pop album releases of 2021.
Perfect World is now available for pre-order and pre-save and will be available to stream on all online music platforms on May 28, 2021.
Pre-save Links
Red Pill Version: snd.click/osakrbaf
Blue Pill Version: snd.click/k4zvzl3
About Cory Stewart
Cory Stewart has been described as synth-pop’s “smooth voice” (Billboard, 2020) who creates “fearless, unapologetic and relentlessly catchy” music (Canadian Beats, 2018). Stewart has been a supporting act for several legendary artists including the likes of Boy George and Crystal Waters. He is the host of the Official Queerantine Aftershow, which accompanies the weekly TRL-style indie music showcase show Queerantine, airing Sundays at 4:30 p.m. EST (new season begins May 2021). Cory also hosts the monthly online event “Queer Music Social”, which gathers musicians from around the world, and pairs them with music experts for Q&A style panels.
Website: www.coryjstewart.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/coryjstewart
Instagram: www.instagram.com/coryjstewart
Twitch: www.twitch.tv/coryjstewart
Visionary Artist J GRGRY Announces Groundbreaking Performance at Seattle’s Historic Moore Theatre
Songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist J GRGRY will stream an impressive three hour interactive concert on Amazon’s Twitch platform on March 20, 2021, alongside an all-star line up of supporting players.
SEATTLE, WA (February 23, 2021) – On March 20, 2021, at 3:00 p.m. PST/6:00 p.m. EST, Queer artist J GRGRY will return to his hometown of Seattle, Washington’s legendary Moore Theatre, where he will perform a first-of-its-kind, interactive, visually-electrifying live concert, streamed exclusively on Amazon streaming platform Twitch. GRGRY will be accompanied by a slew of music industry all-stars including, drummer Ben Smith (HEART and Roadcase Royale); guitarist CJ Stout (A Pile of Pedals and Vendetta Red); keys, bass and vocalist Emily McVicker (solo artist); lighting director Tim Semakula (Earth, Wind & Fire, Sheryl Crow and K Flay); and visual artist and projectionist Amy Billharz.
The live-stream event will mark the start of a new direction for J GRGRY, after recently deciding to remove his entire, extensive music catalogue from all popular streaming services. GRGRY has shifted focus to music production streams and performing live on Twitch to retain autonomy, cultivate active, engaged community members, and have unadulterated access to consistent revenue streams.
“Twitch has built-in models to compensate artists in real-time and the connections made with fans and audience members is unparalleled,” says J GRGRY. “Throughout all my years of touring, doing press and radio campaigns, and chasing the illusion of income from streaming royalties – I truly believe Twitch is the foundational piece to creating a larger, healthier middle class for musicians from all walks of life.”
Fans of J GRGRY will be able to access the March 20th concert at no cost by visiting twitch.tv/jgrgry. The live-stream will begin at 3:00 p.m. PST/6:00 p.m. EST sharp, and will feature the following setlist (subject to change):
1. Ships
2. eFlower
3. Dinosaurs
4. Haunted Horses
5. Rare Poisons
6. Erase The Shore
7. Floodlands
8. Cave Birds
9. Grafitti
10. Flowers + Champagne
11. China Creek
12. Open Roads
13. Imagination
14. Bees
15. Don’t Ever Give Up
About J GRGRY
J GRGRY (pronounced J Gregory) is a queer songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist, originally from Seattle WA. Often compared to Peter Gabriel, David Bowie and Annie Lennox. JG writes songs that are lyrically captivating and emotionally relevant. He blends organic and synthetic instruments with an honest, earnest voice to create depth and texture in the vein of these 80s Prog-Pop icons. His live show is full of makeup, costumes, elaborate visuals and lighting design inspired by the great arena and festival shows that have resonated with him over the years. Radio stations KEXP and 107.7 The End helped launch JG into national attention in America. West coast tours, fly-out dates to NYC and festival performances followed, including bills shared with The Killers, The Lumineers, Portugal The Man, and many others.
Website: https://www.jgrgrymusic.com/
Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/jgrgry
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDTFOyq9Dz28h2HIchz-rIQ
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jgrgrymusic/
Cory Stewart Drops Long-Awaited Debut Pop Album, ‘TOV’
Queer Toronto-based artist offers an impressive 46-minute album debut delivered in three distinctive (and catchy) acts
TORONTO, ON (January 12, 2021) - On January 22, 2021, Toronto-based pop artist Cory Stewart drops his 17-track debut album ‘TOV’, a musical journey broken into three acts: betrayal, heartbreak and survival. Meticulously crafted over three years by Stewart and award-winning Canadian producer Gavin Bradley: ‘TOV’ was named after one of Cory’s life-long friends, Tovah Natalie, who passed away from cancer during the 2020 pandemic. ‘TOV’ is the follow-up to Stewart’s EP ’7 Different Sides’, which led to him opening for Boy George and the Culture Club in 2018.
The album will be released under label Embrace Disruption (in partnership with AWAL/Kobalt) and features an all-star list of LGBTQ+ indie musicians, contributors and collaborators including Gavin Bradley, Jxckson, Kisos, MDL CHLD, Michelle Mondesir (of Madame Psychosis) and Zach Benson.
Pulling from influences in Stewart’s musical career, including the dance elements of Madonna and Kylie Minogue, the humour of Bette Midler, and the drama of Phantom of the Opera, Stewart hopes ‘TOV’ will be more than just a collection of songs, but a story of resilience and strength – geared to be experienced in full album form.
“Listening to an album from top to bottom is a lost pleasure these days,” says Stewart. “When writing songs for ‘TOV’, I worked closely with Gavin (Bradley) to make sure we told a story — one that could only be fully understood by listening in full; while also ensuring that each song carries its own individual narrative.”
Tracks like ‘What If’, ‘Poison’ (feat. MDL CHLD) and ‘End of Me’ (feat. Michelle Mondesir) explore themes of betrayal (both self-inflicted and external) through a dance floor beat, while ‘Happiness in Heartache’, ‘Little Lies’ and ‘Do You’ examine the complexities of heartbreak, through several perspectives. Followed by ’Grab the Fire’ (feat. Jxckson), ‘No More Trips to London’ (featuring background vocals from Stewart’s mother, written about the loss of his grandmother), ‘Unhappy’ and ‘Little One’ (written and recorded for the album’s namesake Tovah – and played for her the night she passed), which deal with the pain of loss, and the struggle of survival. The album is also seasoned with tracks like ’Tu·mul·tu·ous Situation’, ‘Cut Those **** off’ and ‘Maybe I’m Insane’ which act as story-telling interstitials throughout the project’s 46-minute runtime.
‘TOV’ Track Listing
t. Betrayal
1. What If
2. Poison (feat. MDL CHLD)
3. Outta My Head
4. End of Me (feat. Michelle Mondesir)
o. Heartbreak
5. Tu·mul·tu·ous Situation
6. Happiness in Heartache
7. Little Lies
8. Do You
9. Anyway
v. Survival
10. Cut Those **** off
11. Grab the Fire (LP Version) [feat. Jxckson]
12. You’re Like Mom
13. No More Trips to London
14. Unhappy
15. Maybe I’m Insane
16. Why Do I Even Try
17. Little One (feat. Tovah Natalie) [Demo]
‘TOV’ will be available on all streaming platforms January 22, 2021, and can be pre-saved/purchased by visiting http://coryjstewart.com.
About Cory Stewart
Cory Stewart has been described as synth-pop’s “smooth voice” (Billboard, 2020) who creates “fearless, unapologetic and relentlessly catchy” music (Canadian Beats, 2018). Stewart has been a supporting act for several legendary artists including the likes of Boy George and Crystal Waters. He is the host of the Official Queerantine Aftershow, which accompanies the weekly TRL-style indie music showcase show Queerantine, airing Sundays at 4:30 p.m. EST (new season begins January 2021). Cory also hosts the monthly online event “Queer Music Social”, which gathers musicians from around the world, and pairs them with music experts for Q&A style panels.
Website: www.coryjstewart.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/coryjstewart
Instagram: www.instagram.com/coryjstewart
Twitch: www.twitch.tv/coryjstewart
Toronto’s Cory Stewart and Austin’s Jxckson Unite on Sizzling New Dancehall-Pop Single “Grab the Fire”
The two fiery singers met shortly after the pandemic hit at the online TRL-style indie music video showcase “Queerantine”, which coincidentally earned its name through a Twitter suggestion from Jxckson, and of which Stewart hosts an after-show companion called “The Official Queerantine Aftershow with Cory Stewart”. After bonding in the stream chat, the two quickly made plans to collaborate over Zoom. In the course of three sessions, the pair wrote “Grab the Fire”, and then went to recording studios in their respective cities to lay down vocals. Co-produced by Stewart and JUNO winner Gavin Bradley, the song features trombone, strings, pop synths, and a dancehall-inspired beat.
“It was such a delight to have the opportunity to work with Jxckson on this track,” says Stewart. “After we finished writing Grab the Fire, it was evident that we’d landed on the perfect amalgamation of both of our sounds. Without sounding too presumptuous, I think I can confidently say we’ll be working on a follow-up track in the very near future!”
“Collaborating with Cory felt so natural and organic – which is particularly important to me,” says Jxckson. “I didn’t quite know what to expect prior to our first virtual session but I soon realized the magic we could create working together. In the end, It’s insane to see how our unique styles came together and blended so effortlessly.”
“Grab the Fire” will be released December 3, 2020 on all major streaming platforms, and will be accompanied by a same-day online Twitch release party at 7 p.m. ET on Stewart’s channel: http://www.twitch.tv/coryjstewart. To stream “Grab the Fire” when released, please visit: https://snd.click/iujg.
About Cory Stewart
Cory Stewart has been described as synth-pop’s “smooth voice” (Billboard, 2020) who creates “fearless, unapologetic and relentlessly catchy” music (Canadian Beats, 2018). He is the host of the Official Queerantine Aftershow, which accompanies the weekly TRL-style indie music showcase show Queerantine, airing Sundays at 4:30 p.m. EST (new season begins January 2021). Stewart has been a supporting act for several legendary artists including the likes of Boy George and Crystal Waters. Cory also hosts the monthly online event called “Queer Music Social”, which gathers musicians from around the world, and pairs them with music experts for Q&A style panels.
Website: www.coryjstewart.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/coryjstewart
Instagram: www.instagram.com/coryjstewart
Twitch: www.twitch.tv/coryjstewart
About Jxckson
Jxckson is an Austin-based pop singer and dancer best known for his keen pop instincts. Delivering his best lines with a smirk, Jxckson combines infectious melodies with witty lyrics and metaphors. Although he treats genre as a moving target, Jxckson’s unique storytelling approach to his lyricsis a constant presence in his music. Jxckson was recently mentioned in PAPER magazine. His latest single, a dancehall-inspired pop track, “Mango” has been featured on an official ‘them.’ magazine playlist and has hit #1 on the QReview music chart.
Website: www.jxckson.com
Twitter: www.twitter.com/jxckson_music
Instagram: www.instagram.com/jxckson.music
Passionate human rights defender and refugee Christopher Nkambwe receives Canada’s largest single cash award in recognition of outstanding LGBTQIA2S+ leadership
TORONTO, ON (November 10, 2020) – On the evening of November 5, 2020, Ugandan-born LGBTQIA2S+ activist, refugee and trans woman Christopher Nkambwe (pronouns: she/her) was honoured with Community One Foundation’s Steinert & Ferreiro Award, a commemorative award and $10,000 cash prize that celebrates unsung heroes for their contributions to the Canadian LGBTQIA2S+ community. Christopher, a journalism graduate and long time human rights defender, is the 15th recipient of Community One Foundation’s Steinert & Ferreiro Award, superseding 2019 award recipient Kimahli Powell, Executive Director of the Canadian non-profit organization Rainbow Railroad.
Christopher Nkambwe’s activism journey began in Uganda, where she served as the Executive Director and founder of Service Workers in Group Foundation Uganda, along with volunteering at several other LGBTQIA2S+ organizations, advocating for better health and economic services for the community. Christopher was also at the forefront of organizing underground Pride Uganda events from 2014 to 2016, to highlight issues affecting the LGBTQIA2S+ community, before the event was bombarded by Uganda police – resulting in many being arrested for promoting homosexuality, an act that is against the law and culture in Uganda. In 2019, Christopher was conducting voluntary peer outreach for HIV/AIDS testing and counselling, along with Hepatitis B screening and condom distribution, when Ugandan police raided, attacked and threatened her with life imprisonment, which led her to seek asylum in Canada.
Upon arrival in Canada, Christopher began her journey as a refugee claimant in Toronto. She was presented many challenges as a newcomer to the country; including finding employment, a lawyer and legal aid and even acquiring basic shelter. During her first few nights in Toronto, Christopher was forced to sleep outside the urinals of the 109 Peter Street intake centre, because of overcrowding in city shelters. After successfully submitting her refugee claim, it was these very challenges that ended up being the catalyst for Christopher’s next advocacy efforts.
After four months of enduring the difficult immigration process and acquiring her refugee protection documents, Christopher sought free legal advice from The 519 legal clinic to register her LGBTQIA2S+ charity organization, The African Centre For Refugees in Ontario Canada. Through this organization, Christopher is able to integrate African LGBTQIA2S+ refugees to Canada through extensive social work and community development. She has been able to assist over 300 individuals with employment, health and housing referrals, despite having to run her organization with her part-time job cleaning salary, and no external funding. Christopher is continuing her important work throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, along with volunteering at several LGBTQIA2S+ organizations including The 519 and Black Lives Matter. She has also recently been chosen by The Ontario Council for Agencies Serving Immigrants to be a part of their advisory committee. Currently, The African Centre For Refugees in Ontario Canada is seeking out opportunities to acquire laptops for their staff, and PPE equipment for over 300 refugees.
“It is with great honour that we are able to present Christopher Nkambwe with this year’s Steinert and Ferreiro Award,” says Community One Foundation Co-Chair Andrew Mainprize. “Although a tough decision, with many qualified applicants this year, it’s clear that Christopher’s tireless efforts to help LGBTQIA2S+ refugees, despite facing so many of her own challenges, embodies everything that this award represents. It is people like Christopher who continue to inspire, promote growth and create change at the heart of the Canadian LGBTQIA2S+ community.”
About Community One:
Established in 1980 as the Lesbian and Gay Community Appeal, Community One Foundation provides grants to LGBTTIQQ2S community projects in Greater Toronto Area including Durham, Halton, Peel and York Regions, focusing on the areas of arts and culture, health and social services, and research and education. The Foundation also promotes community philanthropy through strategic partnerships such as the Bill 7 Award and the LGBT Giving Network.
Website: www.communityone.ca
Facebook: www.facebook.com/CommunityOneFoundation/
Twitter: www.twitter.com/C1Foundation
Instagram: www.instagram.com/C1Foundation
