A strange twist of circumstances, however, put Yellowbird on the country music path. Born with a speech impediment, he began seeing a speech therapist as a child who suggested that he try and hum and sing his sentences to help him speak clearly. The technique proved successful and also instilled a budding love of music in Yellowbird.

It wasn’t until he was 21 that his love of singing became more than just therapy, when he competed in a karaoke contest and, much to his surprise, won. With a newfound confidence about his performing abilities, Yellowbird continued to perform in karaoke and other singing competitions until he won the Canadian Finals Rodeo and Big Valley Jamboree competitions. Impressed by the strapping cowboy’s voice, Canadian-based O’Reilly International Entertainment Management took interest and started to develop Yellowbird’s debut album. When they discovered his story, their interest was even more piqued.

“Here was this singer who had it all. He had the great voice, the look, the rodeo background, we were curious about why he had started his career so late,” says O’Reilly International President, Louis O’Reilly. “When we talked to Shane about his speech impediment and realized what he had overcome to achieve this career, we knew he had the drive and determination you need in this industry.”

The company, who also handle established Canadian country artists Brad Johner and Patricia Conroy, quickly began work on Yellowbird’s album and released the single “Beautiful Concept” to CMT Canada and radio. The reception has been overwhelmingly positive with Shane quickly signing a deal with 306 Records (Navarre Canada/Universal Music Canada), and his recent performance at the 2005 Canadian Country Music Week industry awards further solidified the positive buzz about this new artist.

Still an avid horseman who competes in calf-roping competitions and breaks horses, Yellowbird, a proud Native Canadian, feels the cowboy lifestyle is in his blood.

“This is truly who I am,” he says. “I’m not someone who just puts on the hat and goes out to do a show. I live the country lifestyle every day and I’m proud of that. I think there are a lot of people across North America who really relate to that part of my personality.”

With his album, Life is Calling My Name, set for release in April, 2006, Yellowbird is currently on tour in western Canada, with plans to tour the rest of the country in early 2006. “It’s been a strange journey to get here,” he admits, “but I feel so lucky to have this opportunity. Hopefully, I will be able to inspire others to realize their dreams no matter what the odds are.”