Canadian and Nashville Artists Join Forces for 97 South Song Sessions "Hits With Heart concerts," Raising $55,000 for Charity

April 21, 2025
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April 5, 2025 - Penticton, British Columbia – In its sixth year, acclaimed 97 South Song Sessions (97southsongsessions.com) proudly announces the successful conclusion of its sixth season show, "Hits With Heart," raising significant funds for Canada's national music education charity MusiCounts. The sold-out show was hosted once again by Presenting Sponsor Stingray’s own, media personality, Paul McGuire at the O'Rourke Family Estate (ofestate.com) in Lake Country British Columbia. The intimate music happenings raised $55,000 for MusiCounts. The event was also supported by sponsors, Twincon Enterprises, Penticton Honda, O’Rourke Family Estate, and Desert Star Estate.

Established and produced by ole founder and former CEO, Robert Ott and his wife, Robin Ott, 97 South Song Sessions is renowned for its unique Bluebird Café-style performances, where acclaimed songwriters perform in the round to share stories and acoustic renditions of their hit songs. Says 97 South's Robert Ott, "Since inception, 97 South Song Sessions has been about building community around the art and craft of songwriting and storytelling. To extend this mission to giving back to music education and the foundations of our community is very gratifying."

This year’s lineup featured Nashville A-list songwriters Lee Thomas Miller and Wendell Mobley, known for their combined 17 #1 hits including "Whiskey and You" (Chris Stapleton), "How Forever Feels" (Kenny Chesney), and "Fast Cars and Freedom" (Rascal Flatts). They joined forces with Canadian music legends Kim Mitchell ("Patio Lanterns") and Marc Jordan (Rod Stewart’s "Rhythm of My Heart").

Since its inception in 2019, 97 South has evolved to prioritize community and charity. Earlier seasons have featured illustrious performers such as Rik Emmett, Tim Nichols, Paul Brandt, Alan Frew, Jeff Trott, Jamie O'Neal, Neil Osborne, Chris DeStefano, and many more, solidifying the event's reputation as a celebration of music and storytelling.

Looking forward, 97 South aims to expand its impact through satellite events and online experiences, further connecting music lovers, songwriters, and charitable causes nationwide.