HFA Presents James Barker Band

The band’s big break came in 2015 at the Emerging Artist Showcase at Boots and Hearts Music
Festival, where their raw talent and undeniable charm earned them the top prize. That victory was
a launchpad, leading to a record deal with Universal Music Canada, the country’s leading music
company, and the release of their breakout single, “Lawn Chair Lazy,” in 2017. The laid-back
anthem quickly gained traction and earned Platinum certification, but it was just the beginning.
Their subsequent singles have also earned vast achievements and acclaim. Their 2x Platinum
single “Chills,” charted at No. 1 in Canadian country music charts, peaked at #1 on the Billboard
Canada Country chart, #49 on the American Billboard Country Chart, and was awarded Single of
the Year and Top Selling Canadian Single of the Year at the 2018 Canadian Country Music Awards,
just a year after their major label signing. “Chills” also made history with the SOCAN Songwriter
Prize nomination, which is the first-ever country music nomination for this prestigious all-genre
award. The record-breaking track’s home album, Game On, is Gold certified and took home the
2018 JUNO Award for Country Album of the Year.
Following up on a stellar debut, the band released several fan and industry favourites like
Platinum-certified “Keep it Simple” which notched another No. 1 song of the year at the 2020 CCMA
Awards and CMAO Awards. Their bustling catalogue has seen a string of successful tracks with
four No.1 Canadian Country radio hits – “Chills,” “Over All Over Again,” “Meet Your Mama,” and
“New Old Trucks” feat. 14x GRAMMY-nominated artist Dierks Bentley. To date, they’ve racked up
12 Gold and Platinum certifications, four No. 1 Canadian country radio hits, and three CCMA Fans’
Choice Awards.
But beyond their record-breaking metrics and awards, James Barker Band’s magic lies in their
connection—to each other, to their roots, and to the fans who see themselves in their songs. Every
note they play is a tribute to the small towns that raised them, the families that support them, and
the communities that keep showing up to cheer them on. With their grounded ethos, infectious
energy, and heartfelt storytelling, James Barker Band has made it clear: they’re not just chasing
dreams—they’re sharing them. As they continue their rise in Canada, Nashville, and beyond, the
band remains the same four humble friends who started it all, proof that sometimes, the best
stories come from the simplest beginnings.
With this, the multi-award-winning four-piece is continuing its steadfast ascent in Canada, Nashville
and beyond. Fans are encouraged to stay up to date with JBB for more exciting announcements
on the way, on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, YouTube and at JamesBarkerBand.com.