"Kentucky's New Single Honors The Tragically Hip"
Kentucky, the musical project of singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jordan Holman from Almonte, Ontario, celebrates the release of his new single “In Kingston Tonight.” This poignant track pays homage to one of Canada’s vibrant music cities while simultaneously urging Canadians to carry forward the legacy of iconic band The Tragically Hip. Holman’s dedication to the song is reflected in the intimate and powerful way it was crafted—it was entirely written, recorded, engineered, produced, mixed, and mastered by him in his home studio, The Kentucky Bend.
The inspiration behind “In Kingston Tonight” comes from a vivid memory of witnessing a Filipino girl at a Kingston bar, sharing traditional Irish music and poutine. This rich, cultural tapestry embodies a uniquely Canadian experience that the song captures beautifully in its lyrics. Highlighting the collective memory of The Tragically Hip’s final performance in Kingston, Holman evokes a sense of unity and purpose, calling on listeners to embrace the torch passed by this legendary band. His lyrics resonate with a warmth that acknowledges both personal and shared history within Canada, infusing the song with a powerful narrative that encourages reflection and connection.
Musically, Kentucky has carved out a distinctive genre known as Northern Americana, blending elements of rock, folk, blues, and ambient sounds that echo the Canadian landscape and storytelling. With his vocal prowess and multi-instrumental skills, Holman creates a full-bodied soundscape that captivates listeners. His ever-evolving sound has placed him among influential company spanning decades, drawing parallels with artists like Gord Downie and Tom Petty, all while maintaining his own unique voice.
Jordan Holman’s journey is marked by resilience and creativity. After overcoming a near-fatal battle with addiction in 2020, he embraced music as a second chance at life, channeling his experiences into his debut album, ‘Second Chance Music.’ This gripping narrative of revival reflects his unfiltered storytelling and has garnered a dedicated following across Canada. Holman has performed over 250 shows in the last three years, building a diverse audience that connects with his raw honesty and engaging stage presence.
Kentucky’s commitment to promoting Canadian culture continues with an ambitious tour schedule for 2026. His post-Canada Day performance in Brockville kicks off “The Canadian Promise: A Toonie Tour of Royal Canadian Legions” through Ontario. This tour includes a unique “Tour-By-Boat Part 2” along the Trent-Severn Waterway in September and a monthly residency at the renowned Cove Inn in Westport through October. The year will culminate with Holman’s feature as Via Rail’s Artist-on-Board from Toronto to Vancouver in December.
Holman’s upcoming performances promise to deliver an unforgettable experience as he connects audiences with his heartfelt music. The release of “In Kingston Tonight,” alongside his rigorous touring schedule, reflects not only his artistic growth but also his dedication to fostering community through music. With heartfelt lyrics and authentic sound, Kentucky is poised to further cement his legacy and continue to inspire others with his musical journey.
Fans and music lovers alike can find more about Kentucky and his latest single through streaming platforms and his social media pages. The essence of Canadian culture flows through Kentucky’s music, encouraging everyone to celebrate their stories and experiences. Join Holman on this exciting journey—he invites you to carry forward the spirit of unity and musical remembrance across this great nation.
