Bill Usher and The Space Heaters lit up the stage at the Golden Civic Centre on January 10th and 11th during an evening performance devoted to songs and stories written by Usher about his perspective on life as an elder looking back. The shows kick-started the first of two tours planned this year. Lead-singer, percussionist, four-time Juno Award winner, writer for the four-piece band, and Executive Director of Kicking Horse Culture here in Golden, B.C., Usher, says he had a “burning desire” to create the show that brought over 200 people out during the two evenings. Guests said they were moved by the intimate stories about life’s great themes such as love, and parenthood. Many who attended the show said they were moved to tears.
Stage Technician and musician, Mike Garner, said he, “found several of Bill’s songs quite moving.”
“The harmonies, the musical arrangements, all supporting the lyrics, the awesome performance on guitar, bass and percussion, and Bill’s wonderful voice, all coming together, created magical moments, so good!” says Garner.
Local performer and resident of Golden, B.C., John Denham says, “We have known Bill for a long time in Golden and he has kept us experiencing incredible art in all forms. It’s about time we got to see him on the stage surrounded by excellent musicians playing original compositions and telling stories that took us back decades into his artistry. Thank you for sharing Bill.”
After his performance last week, Usher and his bandmates, Steve Briggs and Paul Pigat on guitars and Holly Hyatt on bass, travelled to Revelstoke, Nelson and Oliver for their first tour of the year. The second tour will take place in October with shows planned for Cranbrook and Trail.
Usher has been living in Golden, B.C. since 2006. He is an accomplished Canadian musical artist recognized for his work with Sharon, Lois, and Bram and Sesame Street as well as Truck, a rock band he played in with Bruce Cockburn. Usher has been bringing various music and arts events to Golden, B.C., through his work at KHC. One of those events includes the upcoming Snow King Festival (Feb. 10), involving a showcase of community artists of all ages. Usher says, “All my life all my shows have been about connecting those who are growing older with those who are growing up.”
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