Vote at www.singfortheshot.com.

By Josh Hall (Twitter: @Vancan19)

shooting his shot

Red Deer’s Curtis Labelle needs votes in competition for record deal

Jun 7, 2020 | 2:18 PM

A Red Deer musician and self-described ‘flamboyant rock pianist’ is hoping to seize the moment and earn a chance to sign a record contract with a major Canadian label.

Curtis Labelle is currently part of The Shot, a web series allowing independent singer-songwriters to experience what’s it’s like to audition for a record label.

The contest takes places over several months, with artists doing workshops, as well as collaborating on and performing songs. The winner gets the opportunity to sign a major management deal.

“Making it my priority to perform, write music and record so that I can share it with the world is what I wake up to do every morning. I am the owner of what I create, I am powerful, I own my pride and I own my passion,” says Labelle, who was born in Vernon, B.C.

“It would also mean that I would be in a place where I can truly give back to all of those people who have supported my family, friends, and I, as well as fans, communities and businesses.”

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Labelle’s music career started when he was four, when he first tapped the keys of a piano. Eventually, he moved on to directing musical theatre in central Alberta before spending time in the Yukon and in St. Albert, Alberta.

Having moved back to Red Deer a few years ago, Labelle has released two singles called Pawn in my shade and Family is love. You can listen on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music, and other streaming platforms.

Meantime, the 37-year-old needs your help to move on in The Shot.

The competition is currently in the second round with the highest vote-getters moving on. Round two lasts until July 15, and Labelle is currently in the lead. Forty out of the 100+ remaining move on to round three.

Place your vote here.

In March, when COVID-19 was still fresh in everyone’s minds, Labelle held a free online concert in an effort to help alleviate stress for those who tuned in.

Labelle believes music is one of the most important things the world has right now.

“Nobody can take away art. The only thing they can do is like it or not like it; it’s that simple. Music lifts everybody up and it certainly propels my energy to keep giving back,” he says.

“Music heals and right now the world is sick and sore. It’s in a lot of pain and music is a medicine that can be a remedy perhaps. If it puts a smile on somebody’s face, then it’s done its job.”