Virtually every news outlet in the country reported that Gord Bamford was the big winner at the Canadian Country Music Awards scooping up three major awards in Halifax last weekend.
What went unreported was that the 39-year-old recording artist’s equally hard working band took home their share of hardware – and that included drummer Chad Melchert.
The Morinville resident and one of the best go-to band musicians and session players across Canada won his third All Star Band Award – Drums. He also cleaned up in 2012 and 2014.
Melchert attributed his success to a variety of factors including hard work, longevity and being in the right place at the right time.
Not surprisingly, Melchert credits his parents’ support for encouraging him to follow his dreams. As a thank-you, he handed over his 2014 trophy to the folks.
“I gave it to my parents because they put up with a lot of noise while I was growing up. They were very supportive and drove me to gigs when I was young. Some musicians don’t have that support, and they’re left kicking and clawing along the way. Not everyone is as lucky as I am,” said Melchert.
The new hardware, expected to arrive in December, will sit alongside the 2012 trophy, on an old wood cabinet-style record player in the family’s common room.
When asked if Melchert plans to construct a shelf for his accolades, he mentions that the Country Music Association only allows musicians to win five times.
“After five, they go into the Hall of Fame,” he explained – an honour easily within his reach.
At the gala award ceremony broadcast live across the nation last Sunday, Melchert showed off his chops providing drum support for Bamford, who in an oversized black cowboy hat, debuted his new single Don’t Let Her Be Gone.
The popular drummer also performed at five other Country Music Week events including the Industry Gala, FanFest and an invitation-only Sony party.
As a father of two boys, he encourages other parents to support their children’s ambitions – even if at the time they appear unachievable.
“The worst thing we can do to children is quell their dreams. The best part of living is thinking we can follow our dreams. Not everything is attainable, but there are always ways to work in the things you love.”
