The 8th and final slot in the Boots and Hearts Emerging Artist showcase went to Rebecca Rain. Rebecca was featured last week as part of the 3 Wildcard artists but since we featured all three artists in one post we offered Rebecca a second set of questions so she could have a dedicated post as a member of the top 8.

For Rebecca Rain, there are three things that matter most – family, the small town she grew up in, and music. While that list may read like different things, in a very real way they are all simply parts of the same whole that drives her passion. That’s because there’s something about growing up in a small town… The lines between family, friends and strangers are drawn thinner and lighter – strangers become friends, friends become family, and family is inseparable from one’s self.

Part of the package of growing up with the small town life for Rebecca was a very early exposure to country music. Drawing influences from childhood favourites like Loretta Lynn, June Carter Cash, and Patsy Cline, Miss Rain has crafted a sound that is equally modern and traditional, all delivered by a voice that is hauntingly pure, and with a reflective songwriting style wise beyond her years.

“Being immersed in a musical family from a young age shaped who I am today.” says Rebecca “When I sing about love, loss, heartache or longing I’m singing about the experiences that we’ve all been through together. And, when it’s time to turn up the volume and get the boots stomping a little harder, growing up as the only sister to 3 brothers sure didn’t hurt.”

With all the places that Rebecca’s music has, and will continue to take her, she is grounded by the strength of her roots, and in knowing that eventually, all roads lead to home…before that road leads her home it has to lead her one more place and that’s to the stage at Boots and Hearts on Thursday night where she will compete for the title of 2019 Boots and Hearts Emerging Artist.

If you missed our first feature on her you can catch it here, be sure to checkout the other 2 incredibly talented artists that were also part of the wildcard. They may not have made it to the top 8 but to make the top 10 out of hundreds or even thousands of entries has to mean something.

#1: Ok so you made it to the Top 8. Where were you when you got the news and what was the first thought that went through your head when you realized you would be performing at Boots and Hearts?

I got the news I was in the top 8 when I had just got to my parents house for a visit after a gig. I told my mom and dad right away and we all jumped up and hugged each other. Then we told my brothers and we all had a beer to celebrate! My family is amazing and some of my biggest supporters so to have them be a part of that special moment with me is something I’ll always remember.

#2: Now that you’re here you’ll have a chance to perform. A big part of this competition is about stage presence, what do you put into your performance to make it unique?

I try and work hard when I’m practicing to really make sure everything I’m singing and playing is natural and coming straight from the heart when I perform live. To me music at its core is about strength and connection to others so if I can convey both of those things on stage then I’m happy!

#3: What’s your all-time favourite TV Show?

That’s a good question! Honestly my favourite TV Shows are always changing. Right now I’m hooked on “Shameless”.

#4: In “Rebecca Rain, Story of My Life” – The Movie, who would play you? 

In our last interview you asked me if I were a made up super hero what would my name be. I’d have to say it’s Rain Guns💪 who I would want to play me if my life were a movie.

#5: Star Trek or Star Wars?

I’m not going to lie. It’s neither!… and It’s not even like I think they’re poorly done they’re just not really my thing🤷🏻‍♀️

#6: What is the best advice you’ve been given?

The best advice I’ve been given is to not be afraid to be true and honest with yourself and others and always listen to your intuition to help lead you down the right road.

#7: Stress management: hit man, spa vacation or Prozac? 

haha! I think a Spa vacation in the long run is the best choice for a clear conscience. Less stress overall 😉

#8: If you could see any artist in concert, who would you see (living or dead)? 

Janis Joplin!

Rebecca Rain

#9: Favourite Make of Car / Truck?

Chevy… and not because it’s a Chevy Music competition. It’s the honest truth. I drive a 2007 Cobalt that’s never let me down and still runs great. My dad, who’s a mechanic prefers my family to drive Chevys because he thinks they’re the most reliable make of cars!

#10: It took you 4 attempts to make it to the Boots and Hearts Emerging Artist Showcase Top 8, now you’re here. What’s your next challenge going to be?

My next challenge is going to be making sure I work as hard as I can and feel as prepared as possible for my show and then go out there and have fun doing what I love to do!

So there you have it, 20 questions for you to get to know Rebecca Rain a little bit better than you did before you read this.

To learn even more about Rebecca be sure to visit her online at any of the following:

Website: http://www.rebeccarain.ca/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rebeccarainmusic
Twitter: https://twitter.com/RRainmusic
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rebeccarainmusic/

So that’s it. 8 amazing fresh faces on the Canadian country music scene. One will become the Boots and Hearts Emerging Artist for 2019, the other 7…well if artists like Tim Hicks, Eric Ethridge, Birds of Bellwoods, Kelsi Mayne and countless others are any indication this won’t be the last you’ll hear from them either.

Most importantly these 8 artists need your support, be there and cheer for your favourites on Thursday night. Buy their music and merch and most importantly buy tickets to see them in concert. These artists can only become tomorrow’s stars with your support!

For more on the Showcase visit www.bootsandhearts.com/showcase