There is a new young voice earning its way into the country music industry. The definitive, deep voice of 21-year-old Will Ballantyne has audiences listening and experienced individuals in the music industry captivated.
Raised with family values and morals and a disciplined work ethic, this Unity native challenges himself to introduce legendary, traditional country music to the younger generation.
"Music is very spiritual," says Ballantyne, "it has a way of making people feel good. God has given people a heart to respond to music and he has blessed me with the talent to provide."
Ballantyne's career as a musical performer commenced with local events however an encouraging highlight occurred last year at Stony Plain, Alta. when he was invited on stage to perform with Rhonda Vincent and her band who were hosting a gospel session at the Blueberry Bluegrass festival. Vincent is an award-winning American bluegrass singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. Ballantyne, apprehensive at first, was encouraged by his close friend, Neil Penny, to accept the offer and perform Long Black Train. Ballantyne's rendition of Josh Turner's classic hit was not only a hit with the audience but also earned him an invitation to Nashville to perform two songs live on WSM Radio where Vincent hosted Ernest Tubb Midnight Jamboree. Ballantyne was honoured and grateful for Vincent providing an opportunity for him to showcase his talent.
Ballantyne's voice is so strong and consistent, he is able to project it with ease to the ears of many in any size audience anywhere he performs. His voice has often been compared to that of Randy Travis, a comparison that Ballantyne will take graciously, he commented with a smile.
Ballantyne began playing piano at the age of five advancing to the fiddle at 11. He continued to excel by learning how to play the guitar. Focusing on music, he was able to perfect his instrumental skills providing a solid base for him to nurture his songwriting capability.
"Writing meaningful lyrics is not an easy task," admits Ballantyne. "Being able to find the right lyrics that the audience will relate or connect to is imperative to composing a successful song."
Walter Kyliuk of Radisson, one of the original founding members of the Ukrainian Connection band, foresees great potential for Ballantyne and has contributed to introducing Ballantyne to the public. Ballantyne is a frequent performer with the Ukrainian Connection and audiences have been receptive including that of St. Basil Ukrainian Catholic Parish's Grey Cup festivities in Regina Nov. 23.
Ballantyne's charismatic and personable character has earned the respect of many in the music industry. There is no doubt this young man has talent that will provide him with the opportunity to advance into the country music industry.
For now, this concrete worker from Unity will continue to work while building his musical career one gig at a time. Ballantyne's desire is to nourish his musical talents that the Lord has seeded within him through public appearances as well as through a CD, which is in the works.
"It is a work in progress," says Ballantyne explaining his experience with the recording of his first CD, and indicating that he does not want to "hurry" the process.
In the near future, country music fans will be introduced to the dynamic voice of Will Ballantyne.
Kyluik was born and raised in the Hafford area, a community of strong Ukrainian heritage. His interest in music and instruments dates back to his early school years when his elementary teacher took interest in his musical ability. He began his musical performing career playing accordion with Smilin' Johnnie, which provided an opportunity for Kyluik to tour Alberta, Saskatchewan and Yukon as well as capture the radio audience with the concert and dance band's 30-minute weekly performance aired on CJNB radio in North Battleford. Kyluik is an accomplished musician playing both fiddle and banjo.
The Ukrainian Connection band was formed in 2002 as a result of the legendary Mickey and Bunny reunion concert tour. Kyliuk auditioned for a backup musician position and when Mickey gave him the 'thumbs up' he engaged Woytowich and other talented musicians in the formation of Ukrainian Connection. The band travelled with the legendary duo across Alberta and Saskatchewan for three years until the duo retired in 2005.
Formed in 2002, the Ukrainian Connection band grew in popularity among the country and Ukrainian communities throughout central and southern Saskatchewan as well as into Alberta and Manitoba. The band, despite having member changes, continued to share its musical talent specializing in country and Ukrainian selections.
Ukrainian Connection recorded its first album in 2003, which achieved top selling CD in Saskatchewan. A second album was released in May 2004 followed by a third. In June 2010, the band released its fourth CD. The Ukrainian Connection has received airtime on various country music stations in Alberta and Saskatchewan including Saskatoon's CJWW Old Time Dance Party shows Saturday evenings.
Kyluik, along with band member Norman Woytowich, was inducted into the Ukrainian Musician Association Hall of Fame and presented with the Legendary Achievement Award in recognition of their musical contribution and preservation of Ukrainian culture and heritage.
Nov. 23, Kyluik released the fact the event at St Basil Ukrainian Catholic Parish in Regina would be his last large public appearance.
"The time has come for me to wind down," says Kyluik with an apprehensive smile and saddened eyes. You could tell it was a difficult decision yet one that Kyluik was growing more comfortable with.
Kyluik has been honoured to be a part of the country music and Ukrainian music industry. The years of providing musical entertainment to the general public and many honoured guests have left a sense of contentment within Kyluik, a sense that has produced many fond memories that will be forever cherished.
