Step inside the fascinating world of the Mariposa Folk Festival with historian Michael Hill as we explore 50+ years of music, mayhem, and magic that have shaped this iconic event. Michael shares captivating stories about legendary performances from artists like Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, and Gordon Lightfoot, along with unexpected moments that defined the festival's vibrant history.

Discover how this beloved Canadian cultural institution overcame challenges, from its early days in Orillia to its triumphant return, becoming a cornerstone of folk music and community spirit. Learn about the festival's evolution, its role in launching careers, and the timeless appeal of its eclectic mix of music, from folk rock to acoustic melodies.

Through Michael’s firsthand experiences and his work as the festival’s historian and author, you'll gain valuable insights into the rich legacy of Mariposa and its unique ability to bring people together. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the festival, this episode is packed with stories that celebrate the power of music and community.

Michael Hill

Get Michael's Book: https://www.manticorebooks.ca/item/a-c8S3j7QPNMfubXZGeIWw

The Villager Magazine

Website: https://villagermagazine.ca

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheVillagerCommunityNews/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevillagermagazine/

Newsletter: https://villagermagazine.ca/subscribe/

Chapters

00:00 - Intro

00:29 - Michael Hill Biography

01:11 - Getting Involved with Mariposa

03:11 - The Historic 1972 Mariposa Folk Festival

06:17 - Returning to Mariposa in 2000s

08:18 - History & Challenges of the Festival

17:20 - Inspiration for Writing the Book

20:49 -Writing Process & Book Availability

25:02 - What Makes Mariposa Folk Festival Special

26:27 - Definition of Folk Music

From local roots to the global stage, join us as we explore the incredible journey of The Free Label in this episode of the Behind the Village podcast. We talk with Cole Mendez and Jacob Thompson about the band's evolution from a basement studio to playing international stages, their unique sound blending 70s disco, 90s R&B, and funk, and the tight-knit camaraderie that sets them apart. Discover the work being done by these talented artists as they bring their passion for live, unfiltered performances to audiences across the world.

Cole and Jacob also share valuable insights about the creative process, the challenges of life on the road, and their commitment to crafting music that inspires joy and connection. From their early days in Simcoe County to playing festivals like Mariposa Folk Festival and Electric Forest, The Free Label’s story is a testament to resilience, artistry, and community involvement.

This episode is packed with inspiration, behind-the-scenes anecdotes, and a deeper look into how The Free Label is making a difference in the music world. Don’t miss the chance to learn about their latest album, "Songs for Sienna," and their plans for the future.

The Free Label

Website: https://www.thefreelabel.ca/

Instagram: https://instagram.com/freelabellove

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thefreelabel

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCayjyFHwsWptPTcEK1SXJlA

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4YOL2g6AwphwsB1dOZZSOr

Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/the-free-label/1406225618

The Villager Magazine

Website: https://villagermagazine.ca

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheVillagerCommunityNews/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevillagermagazine/

Newsletter: https://villagermagazine.ca/subscribe/

Chapters

00:00 - Intro

00:50 - How The Free Label band got started

04:38 - How Jacob Thompson joined The Free Label

05:58 - Cole and Jacob's roles in the band

09:06 - Growing up in Orillia and artistic aspirations

13:32 - Experience of being a professional musician

18:01 - Turning point for The Free Label band

22:00 - Finding your unique sound

27:00 - Latest album: Songs for Sienna

30:59 - Mariposa Folk Festival insights

35:20 - What are we missing in the music scene?

Join us as we dive into the story behind Mariposa Millwork, a new local business in Orillia. In this episode of the Behind the Village podcast, Kevin Keddy shares the journey of transforming a former automotive shop into a stunning doors and trim showroom.

Learn about the collaborative efforts that brought this vision to life, the challenges of starting from scratch, and how Mariposa Millwork is making a difference in the Orillia community by offering an interactive showroom experience.

Kevin also reveals valuable insights about entrepreneurship, community involvement, and the importance of listening to customer needs to grow a successful business.

So listen to the start of a brand new business and let's welcome them into the community!

Mariposa MillworkWebsite: https://www.mariposamillwork.ca

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MariposaMillwork

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mariposamillwork

The Villager Magazine

Website: https://villagermagazine.ca

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheVillagerCommunityNews/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thevillagermagazine/

Newsletter: https://villagermagazine.ca/subscribe/

Chapters

00:00 - Intro

01:07 - Definition of the Word Millwork

02:37 - Overview of Mariposa Millwork

03:12 - Origins of the Name

04:05 - Interactive Showroom Features

06:05 - Kevin Keddy's Background

08:20 - The Building Process of Mariposa Millwork

12:46 - Advice for New Business Owners

14:02 - The Growth Potential of Orillia

16:19 - Upcoming Grand Opening in July