Few musicians can capture a person’s attention by way of a song as honestly and effortlessly as JJ Shiplett. The Calgary, Alberta-based musician, singer/songwriter, and storyteller leaves a lasting impression on anyone within earshot of his rugged, powerful, yet versatile voice. And such is the case with his 2024 album – A Way Through Time – released courtesy of Red Buffalo Records under the exclusive license of Jayward Artist Group and distributed by The Orchard.
“For a large part of my career, because I know I have this big voice and can make big jumps melodically, I’ve always written songs with these huge choruses and sung them thinking that’s what makes a song great,” says JJ. “For these new songs, I challenged myself not to try to push my voice but to focus on using my full range to show depth and growth.”
A Way Through Time contains seven new songs recorded in picturesque Fort Langley, BC, at Fort Records with engineer and drummer Jay Stewart and multi-instrumentalist Jeremy Friesen, who was receiving treatment for stage 4 cancer at the time of the recording. The three were determined to make the most of the moment and enjoy the music-making process, unfortunately knowing it would never happen again.
This moment is perfectly captured on the lead single ‘Already There’ as JJ sings, “I got a friend out west staring pretty hard into the ages, cross your arms, hold on, we know that nothing ever stays the same…’
The single is a tingly ode to letting go and features a classic pulse that propels JJ’s songwriting into territory previously staked by the likes of Kathleen Edwards and Tyler Childers. We hear him embracing the potential of breaking rules and challenging himself. He aims not to limit his powerhouse voice and choruses to predictable places but to pursue the creation of a great song over seeking temporary acknowledgment. Americana UK declared, “Shiplett’s warm, lived-in voice is perfect for a song that takes us through life’s journey and he delivers his heartwarming words with soul.”
The wistful ‘Oleander’ is searching for balance in an unknown world where he recently became a father. Followed by the resigned ballad ‘Modern Drugs’ and ‘Bad Feelings’ (which peaked at #3 on CBC Music’s TOP 20). The subtle and understated ‘American Accent’ and ‘Reckless Heart’ only serve to further pique one’s interest in the many places A Way Through Time and its successors will take Shiplett.
“It’s been a wild ride for me trying to get to a point where I feel I’m creating music along the right path,” shares JJ. “I’ve got a journey to go, and when my time expires, my hope is that I’ve written some music that was true to me and that I felt connected to, where it feels that my songs have enriched the lives of my fans and music lovers.”
Using his vast vocal range, relatable lyrics, and well-thought-out arrangements, the singer first made his mark on the Canadian music scene with 2017’s Something To Believe In, followed by 2020’s Fingers Crossed and Crossed Fingers. The albums showcased contemplative songwriting with emotive performances and have earned multiple Canadian Country Music Award nominations (CCMA’s) in the Americana/Roots and design categories.
Shiplett’s musical journey has seen him share the stage with many renowned acts in both Canada and internationally, including Ben Harper, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band, Dwight Yoakam, The Sheepdogs, Serena Ryder, Michael Bernard Fitzgerald, Johnny Reid and many more. His global presence continues to expand with appearances in ‘23/24 at AmericanaFest (US), C2C (Berlin), SXSW, UK Americana Music Week, and numerous other events.
With over 10 million global streams, JJ stands out as a distinguished artist and is hailed as one of Canada’s foremost Americana-Roots musicians. At this stage of his career, the Western Canadian artist is comfortable taking a backseat and allowing his songs to take center stage.
