For Nikki English, Keith Robertson and Matt Williams, music has been a driving force in their lives for as long as they can remember. Together since 2007, they are the members of Western Avenue. This 2013 Ontario Country Music Association award-nominated (Best Duo or Group,) twice-nominated International Music and Entertainment Association Award and Nashville Universe Award-winning trio (Best Vocal Group) is winning over audiences with its “hot country” sound, including the catchy first single, “Highway Headin’ Out of Town,” which was picked up by Canadian country radio in the summer of 2012.

With the release of their new single, “Wherever You Are,” from their February 2013 self-titled debut EP, Western Avenue is taking their melody-driven blend of country and pop music to radio in the US and around the globe. Already #1 on the Roots Music Report Pop Country chart #1 on New Music Weekly and #77 on Music Row, the single is poised to take Western Avenue to new heights, and introduce them to a worldwide audience of country music fans.

English and Robertson, who are married, live in Peterborough, Ontario, while Williams is from neighboring Cobourg. The three musicians met through Canadian country artist Tara Lyn Hart, who lived in Port Hope at the time and had a music program in Cobourg. Robertson and Williams were hired as back-up musicians for English, for one of her performances.

Since those early days, the members have matured--developing their music style and songwriting. Their undeniable chemistry has remained intact: “I think it has all come from playing together for so long,” English says. “We get along so well, and I couldn’t ask for better band mates. We click. We’re always open to suggestions from each other.”

Growing up, English fondly remembers her father Frank always playing guitar and singing around their house. He died in 2001 after a battle with cancer. KRRM