Our Artists & Mentorship
At Music on the Hill, we are dedicated to nurturing the talents of emerging artists, helping them build sustainable careers in the music industry. Our team offers personalized mentorship, guiding artists through every stage of their creative journey—from developing their unique sound to navigating the complexities of music management, promotion, and performance.
We believe in the power of collaboration and diversity. By bringing together musicians and artists from all cultures and backgrounds, we encourage cross-genre and cross-cultural creations, enriching the musical landscape of Unama'ki / Cape Breton Island. Our mission is to broaden the horizons of our local music scene, creating opportunities for innovation while preserving the island’s rich musical traditions.
At Music on the Hill, we don’t just manage careers; we build a community where artistry thrives and grows, fostering connections that resonate far beyond the island’s shores.
Christina Googoo
R&B - Jazz
Christina is launching her professional career with her debut EP as her first step towards developing a full-length album in the near future. Titled simply "Christina Googoo," this EP showcases her unique voice and musical style, offering a blend of heartfelt lyrics and captivating melodies that reflect her journey and aspirations as an emerging artist from, Unama'ki / Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia.
Christina has been singing since she was 8 years old. Being one who focuses on doing things right, or not at all, she has honed her musical talents and has now stepped into the next and exciting chapter of professional recording and performing.
Christina Googoo is a Mi’kmaq musician hailing from the serene landscapes of Cape Breton Island. With music woven into the fabric of her upbringing, Christina’s journey as an artist has been profoundly influenced by her proud Mi’kmaq heritage, serving as a perpetual wellspring of strength and inspiration.
The Marshall Brothers
Canadiana
The Marshall Brothers:
The Marshall Brothers, Owen and Merle, have been immersed in music since their youth, influenced by their father’s band. Hailing from Eskasoni, Cape Breton, they are well-known in Unama'ki and are quickly expanding their reach. Both Owen and Merle participated in the inaugural Mi’kmaq Artist Emergence Program, collaborating with producer Keith Mullins and other talented artists to hone their craft. The brothers are currently recording their debut full-length album, set for release in late 2024.
Owen Marshall's Journey:
Owen Marshall grew up in a home filled with music, but a dislocated knee in 2012 became the catalyst for his deep dive into music. Starting with just four chords, Owen's passion for music grew as he secretly practiced singing and playing guitar, eventually catching his father’s attention. This led to a musical partnership that extended to powwows and community events, showcasing Owen’s resilience and his belief in the unifying power of music.
Merle Marshall's Path:
Merle Marshall, also from Eskasoni, found his passion for music at a young age, learning guitar chords from his father, a drummer for the band Silver Moon. By age ten, he had his first guitar and began his journey as a musician. A pivotal moment in Merle’s life was attending the ECMAs with his father and the late Mooney Francis, which left a lasting impact on his musical spirit. Over the past decade, Merle has been an integral member of the Blue Moose band alongside Owen and has also performed with the High Boys, displaying his versatility and dedication.
Debut Album:
The Marshall Brothers are crafting their debut album, drawing inspiration from their deep familial bonds and the rich musical heritage of Cape Breton Island. One standout track, "Castle Bay," gifted to them by the late Mi'kmaq artist Keith Julian, has already garnered acclaim. The album, set for release in late 2024, will be a testament to their enduring passion and talent as musicians.
The Marshall Brothers' journey, marked by resilience, dedication, and a deep connection to their heritage, makes them a deserving nomination for any accolade celebrating musical excellence and cultural contribution.
Hubert Francis
Indigenous - contemporary rock & blues
Hubert Francis is a renowned Indigenous artist and musician from Elsipogtog First Nation in New Brunswick, Canada. As a member of the Mi'kmaq Nation, Hubert has dedicated his life to preserving and promoting Indigenous culture through his music, storytelling, and activism. With a career spanning over three decades, he is known for blending traditional Mi'kmaq chants and rhythms with contemporary rock and blues, creating a unique fusion that resonates with audiences across Canada and internationally.
Hubert Francis gained national recognition as the frontman of the award-winning band Eagle Feather, one of the first Indigenous rock bands to achieve prominence. Their music celebrates Indigenous culture while addressing themes of environmental stewardship, reconciliation, and the struggles faced by Indigenous communities. Hubert's contributions to music have been acknowledged with multiple JUNO Award nominations, a testament to his influence on both Indigenous and mainstream music.
Beyond his musical career, Hubert is actively involved in community outreach and education. As an Elder-in-Residence for cultural initiatives like the 7GI Society, he mentors Indigenous youth, providing guidance on mental wellness, cultural pride, and artistic expression.
Currently, Hubert and 7GI Society/Music on the Hill are developing an exciting new project titled "The Hubert Francis Tribe," which aims to further explore the intersection of traditional Mi'kmaq music and contemporary sounds. His ongoing work continues to inspire and unite both Indigenous and non-Indigenous audiences, emphasizing resilience and cultural pride.
The
HiBoys
Rock/Blues, Country, Folk
The HiBoys emerged from a powerful healing jam that took place over three years, bringing together musicians from different backgrounds to create a space for expression, connection, and musical exploration. This organic and transformative process played a pivotal role in the founding of Music on the Hill, a groundbreaking initiative organized and facilitated by 7GI Society to support emerging artists, foster collaboration, and celebrate the rich musical landscape of Unama’ki / Cape Breton Island.
The HiBoys Show – A Night of Music, Energy & Community
At the heart of The HiBoys Show is a dynamic lineup of talented musicians:
- Morley Googoo – Bass
- Merle Marshall – Vocals & Acoustic Guitar
- Robert “Toolie” Yorke – Drums
- Gerald Aucoin – Vocals & Electric Guitar
- Owen Marshall – Vocals & Electric Guitar
Together, this powerhouse group delivers a high-energy setlist packed with familiar tunes that will have audiences dancing all night long. Known for their electrifying stage presence and infectious sound, The HiBoys ensure every show is a feel-good experience, filled with singalongs and vibrant musical moments.
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