Shane Yellowbird returns to the forefront of the Canadian country music scene with
his highly anticipated sophomore album, It's About Time. Two full years in the
making, and a true labour of love, It's About Time is an exciting new
collection of tunes, both true to the caliber of music that Yellowbird fans have come
to appreciate, and yet explorative of a new side of this talented artist not yet seen.
"It's About Time is more about me than my first record, if that makes sense," says
Yellowbird. "Going into the studio, I had a real vision of what I wanted this album to
be. I've made sure to record songs that really spoke to me. Each lyric and melody says something
to me or about me. I'll leave that up to the listener to decide which is which!"
The new album - released on November 17th, 2009 on On Ramp Records / EMI Music Canada - coincided with Yellowbird's first appearance on the hallowed stage of the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville. He hopes to continue entertaining audiences south of the border.
"I look forward to sharing my music with listeners south of the Canadian border," commented Yellowbird. "I have lots of fans there and it's time I get out and see them."
Yellowbird burst onto the country music scene in 2006 with the release of his debut
album Life Is Calling My Name. Garnering four Top-10 radio singles and videos,
the CD led Yellowbird to countless awards and accolades,
including the coveted CCMA award for "Rising Star of the Year," the "Best Country Recording" award at the Native American Music Awards (for North America), and the "Aboriginal Entertainer of the Year" award at the Aboriginal People's Choice Awards (for North America).
Growing up in Hobbema, Alberta, Yellowbird, who is Cree, was always a typical
cowboy. His parents participated in the rodeo circuit and Shane was roping and
riding from a very early age. Faced with a severe stuttering problem, a speech
therapist suggested to Shane that he sing his sentences to help him speak clearly.
The technique proved successful -- so successful, in fact, that Yellowbird began
entering and winning several singing contests. The life of this cowboy quickly turned
away from roping and riding and moved toward that of another dream, being a
successful country music artist.
"I've been really fortunate the past couple of years," says Yellowbird. "My
fans have embraced me and my music in a way I never expected. When I think
about what I've overcome to make it to where I am right now (referring to his speech impediment), it blows me away. I
couldn't have done it without the support of the people who are there, watching me
on stage every night."
Yellowbird hopes to inspire others to pursue their dreams. Wherever you come from,
whatever obstacles you face, your dreams can come true - something Yellowbird
knows firsthand. Speaking and mentoring troubled youth, visiting young prisoners,
and organizing concerts to benefit those in need in his hometown, Shane knows the
true importance of giving back.
The release of It's About Time is another exciting chapter in this young artist's
career - a career soaring to new heights with each passing year.
"I can't wait for fans to hear this new music," says Shane. "If they love it just a
fraction of what I do, it's going to be amazing."
