Kyle McKearney brings alt-country to Empress

Alberta alternative country singer-songwriter Kyle McKearney is headed to Fort Macleod’s Empress Theatre on Saturday, Jan. 25 as part of the 2024-’25 Centre Stage Series.

Redefining Americana, McKearney weaves soulful storytelling with gritty, roots-inspired instrumentation into a genre-defying sound that makes him one of Canada’s most captivating voices.

McKearney was involved in several country and rock musical projects, including a stint with a touring production of the jukebox musical We Will Rock You.

After a period of disillusionment with the state of his career, McKearney began posting weekly cover songs to YouTube in 2020 before recording and releasing his solo debut album Down-Home in 2021.

McKearney’s sophomore album, A Traveler’s Lament, earned 11 awards, including the 2023 CCMA for Alternative Country Album of the Year, and a shortlist nod for a 2024 Grammy nomination.

This pivotal release launched him onto major stages with the likes of The Black Crowes, Lainey Wilson, and Darius Rucker, performing everywhere from intimate theaters to massive arenas and festivals across Canada, the U.S., Europe and the UK.

Heading into his third studio album, To the River — co-produced with Russel Broom and mixed by Grammy winner Vance Powell — the project reflects his artistic evolution, merging raw emotion, sweeping country-rock energy, and deeply personal storytelling.

Featuring standout singles like the introspective Broken Hearts Hide and the poignant Tomorrow, McKearney continues to push boundaries, cementing his place as a trailblazer in the genre.

Tickets to see Kyle McKearney are available at www.macleodempress.com, by calling 403-553-4404 (toll-free at 1-800-540-9229), or at the Box Office on Main Street.

All Empress concerts sponsored by Alberta Foundation for the Arts.