“As far back as I can remember, music was the most exciting thing in my life,” says singer-songwriter Jesse Parent on the phone from his Kitchener, ON home.   “My whole life, I’ve been on stage somehow,” says Parent, 29, a self-described folk-rock, Canadiana artist, who takes his cues from the likes of Neil Young, Paul Simon, and Blue Rodeo.   In September 2016 Jesse released his first live album with his band, The Pines. He has been described as ‘subtly captivating, a fetching blend of country, pop and folk” reminiscent of “a mellower Ben Harper or Elliott Smith". With this new release they are happy in their new sound which blends folk, rock, blues, and country elements.    “I like to write story-based, lyric driven songs. I try to draw people in, make a connection somehow,” he offers.   Jesse can be found spending a lot of time on the road in Southwestern Ontario, but spends time in other parts of Canada several times a year - travelling anywhere from 200 to 2000km a week, playing about 200 shows a year.     It’s a hectic schedule to keep.   “This thing is as much a curse as it is a passion,” he says. “There’s no question that I need to pursue music. Following your passion for a living is very difficult on many different levels, but at the same time, I couldn’t imagine NOT doing it.”   Parent’s early influences came from discovering his dad’s record collection:  the ’70s rock of The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, Supertramp with the occasional Beatles or Elvis Costello record.    That’s where Parent first discovered Paul Simon’s groundbreaking Graceland from 1986.   “Since I was very young, Graceland has been one of my favourite records. When I was little, I could dance to it, it was fun. As I grew older, I began to appreciate all the other parts of that record more and more. The lyrics, the craftsmanship - everything that makes it so unique. Maybe someday I'll write something that good,” he says with a laugh.    And what drives Parent for all those hours behind the wheel?   “I like the sense of being with people of like minds - a kind of understanding. A connection through the music.” “I know when I go see a show, I like to see people who are really passionate about what they do,” he says, adding that well-crafted songs are vital.    All the shows. All the miles. All the sweat and the songs.    It’s good to stay focused and busy, he says. Whether he’s playing solo or with his band he says, “Play as much as possible. Whether it’s practicing, rehearsing, jamming or writing. Work hard, play a lot and be nice; Genuinely nice. Have a good attitude and be happy to be there.”   Go see him live, in a town near you.