Public vote crowns Woodstock brothers N.B.’s top musical act as festival season kicks off
On June 26, NB Excellence announced winners in 56 categories, with The Martin Boys taking home the People’s Choice Award for Original English Band/Musician in the Arts and Culture category.
“We didn’t even know we were nominated, so winning came as a surprise. It’s nice to be recognized though for such awards, makes us feel good,” said Macauley.
Starting April 10, New Brunswickers had three weeks to nominate their favourites in categories like food and drinks, retail, and arts and culture. The top 10 nominees in each category advanced to the voting round, where the public can choose who they think should win.
With the duo’s biggest fan, their mom Krista, sharing the win on Facebook, the brothers have garnered a loyal following and are feeling the love after the big win.
“The support was incredible, the same way it’s been the entirety of our musical journey. Really proud of that,” said Micah.
The brothers said they’re hopeful the recognition could pave the way for more awards down the line, adding they’re focusing on keeping the momentum going.
After winning second place on Season 5 of Canada’s Got Talent, the brother act has lined up shows spanning Alberta and New Brunswick, including the Calgary Stampede, which drew a record-breaking 1.47 million visitors over its 10-day run.
“We are super pumped for our upcoming shows. Especially for the Calgary Stampede, playing there will be a dream come true for us. We’re hoping to draw a fairly big crowd, even though we have an early afternoon time slot,” said Macauley.
The brothers will be playing at the Calgary Stampede at the Coca-Cola stage and the Ranchman Stampede/Country 105 stage on July 13.
Other summer concerts include:
Fredericton:
Saturday, July 19 at 6:30 p.m. — East Coast Talents (Get Off The Bus Concerts & Fredericton Tourism)
Saturday, Sept. 6 at noon — New Brunswick Provincial Exhibition
Neguac:
Friday, July 25 at 8:30 p.m. — Neguac Country Music Festival
Saint John:
Sunday, July 27 at 2 p.m. — BOXCAR Country Music Festival
Cape Tormentine:
Friday, Aug 1 at 8 p.m. — Cape Tormentine Beach Music Festival
Nashwaak Bridge:
Sunday, Aug. 3 (time to be determined) — Nashwaak Music Fest
Gagetown:
Friday, Sept. 12 (time to be determined) — Queen’s County Fair