Maguire back in city to perform

Stephan Maguire may have a new recording out and a busy touring schedule, but family still comes first.

When asked for recent highlights in his life, Maguire, who is performing at the Royal Canadian Legion Hall in Yorkton on May 26, looked to his family for the biggest memory.

"Working with Nanci Griffith was very special, and also John Oates (Hall & Oates) really stands out to me, but not as much as my son Mason being born in Ireland January 2012," he said.

At the same time, Maguire said his career is moving forward in a positive fashion, too.

"Things have been going really well and I am busier than ever," he said. "With two albums and a Christmas single under my belt, it's hard to believe it all happened in such a short space of time.

"I'm always on the road and I wouldn't change that for the world."

In spite of the busy road schedule, Maguire said he finds time to create music.

"I'm constantly writing and always working on the craft of songwriting whether I'm at home or on the road," he said.

In fact the road proves to be an inspiration for Maguire.

"I couldn't write as productively without being on the road," he said. "Being in new surroundings and meeting new people really does inspire my writing. 'Get Me Home' was inspired from being on the road. It made me think about anyone who has to be away from home to earn a living, and who will do anything it takes to provide for their family."

With a new album out -- 'The Nashville Sessions' -- Maguire was asked which song stands out for him personally.

"I'm really close to them all but there's been a few already that I've found other people have really connected with," he offered.

"'Saturday Mornings' is about my granddad Jimmy McAlinden who was an FA Cup Medal Winner in 1939. The song is a story about me growing up with him not only as my grandfather, but as my best friend and mentor. It's a tribute to him.

'These Are The Streets' is about my home, a reflection on where I'm from ... the streets where I laughed, where I cried, where I played. I released it as a single to Canadian Country Radio."

As an overall recording Maguire said he likes his latest effort.

"I'm thrilled with the album. From start to finish it was a pleasure to write and record," he said. "I had some of the finest musicians in Nashville play on this album and I'm proud to say I co-produced it."

As for the upcoming gig in Yorkton, Maguire said he is pleased to be coming this way again.

"(I'm) delighted to be heading back to Yorkton," he said. "I have many friends there and very fond memories. I look forward to seeing everybody out at the fantastic Yorkton Film Festival (where he will also perform), and of course at the Legion the following night for a full concert experience."

As for what lies ahead it will be more of the same for Maguire.

"I will be touring quite a bit this year to promote 'The Nashville Sessions', and will be heading back down to Nashville at the end of 2012," he said.