Take 5 with Strait South

Taylor Geoffroy

Niagara This Week - Niagara Falls Ontario

September 30, 2013

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It may be hard for country artists to grow a fan base in the region, but Strait South definitely has a loyal fan following. In 2013, Strait South won the Niagara Music Award for Country Band of the Year. The country duo is made up of Kathleen and Steve Fortin, and not only are they partners on stage, they are also married and have been together for eight years.

While still staying true to that familiar country sound, Strait South has a unique collaboration that turns heads. They have a versatile playlist that covers a ton of new country, old country and a little bit of everything. They also play their own songs that have been a great hit with the crowds.

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Entertainment Niagara (EN): How long have you been playing in the region?

Strait South (SS): We have been touring locally in and around the Niagara Region for a number of years. Steve Fortin, the male vocalist and guitarist of the band has been a performing musician in Niagara for more than 25 years, so he brings a lot of knowledge and expertise to the table. His wife and duo partner Kathleen Fortin, female vocalist and guitarist, has fewer years in the business but has quickly learned a lot by performing on a regular basis and working with some of the best musicians not only in Niagara, but all over Ontario.

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EN: Describe your sound....

SS: Strait South makes a vibrant sound that honors country music’s roots while creatively pushing the envelope with their seasoned musicianship, and insightful songwriting. Strait South’s “modern throwback” style combines Classic Country and New Country with a little Rock and eclectic infusion of soul. As songwriters and musicians, our sound is rounded out by dazzling harmonies, and lyrics you can relate to with electrifying power.

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EN: What is your go-to song to get the crowd moving?

SS: Depending on where we are performing, we have a few different songs we like to use as the “go to song”, however the one song that tends to get a crowd going no matter the age or gender is “Fishin’ in the Dark” by The Nitty Gritty Dirt Band! This song particularly gets people in the party mode, no matter where we are.

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EN: What is your most memorable on stage moment?

SS: Steve Fortin has performed to many audiences over the years. His favourite experience took place in 2011, when he was invited to perform at The Havelock Jamboree — one of Canada’s largest country music festivals — and had the opportunity to play guitar for The Grand Ole Opry Ladies: Jean Shepard, Jeannie Seeley, Jan Howard and Helen Cornilius. Kathleen has been very blessed to enjoy many memorable moments on stage, but she’s most looking forward to what’s yet to come!

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Strait South has been invited to perform at the Cobourg Victorian Concert Hall as one of the headliners in the Sweetwater Country Music Series on May 25

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GET EVENT TICKETS at www.concerthallatvictoriahall.com