Gord Downie

October 17, 2017, was the day that Gord Downie, lead singer of the Tragically Hip, lost his battle with brain cancer. To recognize this incredible loss for Canada, we invite you to read Canadian cycling instructor Julianne Lafleur’s tribute to the singer, songwriter, and the band that is considered “the most Canadian band in the world.” Read more…

The world lost an incredible musician today. Here is a list of some of my favorite Tom Petty tracks to use in my cycling classes, and how I use them. I’ve also created a Spotify playlist of what I feel are some of his best songs for a wide variety of uses in your classes, from the warm up, to the cool-down, to fast flats, hard climbs, and much more. Read more…

country music

Ah, country music! I’ll put it this way—when I mention this genre I get the same response that I’d get if I’d mentioned Brussels sprouts or kale. Some people think it’s OK, some love it, but a lot of people turn up their noses! Well, if you don’t think you like country music you may want to reconsider your viewpoint. I have a hunch that some music you think is really fantastic is just country music in disguise! Read more…

Honoring musical legends in our cycling classes when they leave this world is a great way to play tribute to amazing artists, while at the same time expanding your own musical repertoire. It gives you an excuse to play tracks you might not normally play—and who knows? You—and your riders—may discover genres you wouldn’t normally ride to! Here are four Allman Brothers songs you won’t want to miss.Read more…

Canadian music

I confess that 40 years ago, when I emigrated from the United States to Canada, I didn’t expect to feel much difference. I thought, “Two nations, largely English-speaking with a lot of shared history—how different could life be?” I was wrong in many ways. Music was one of the first and most tangible markers of the fact that I was living “abroad.” I heard many artists on the radio who were completely unknown to me and maybe to you, too.Read more…

This year, Chinese New Year starts with the new moon on the first day of the new year on Saturday, January 28. It ends on the full moon 15 days later, which is celebrated with a Lantern Festival that takes place at night. Why not celebrate Chinese New Year with your class by choosing a song or creating an entire profile from our Chinese New Year playlist? Read more…

Downtempo is my favorite genre because it gets into your soul. The words I use to describe this music are enchanting, hypnotic, immersive, meditative, mythical, introspective, mesmerizing, magnetic, ethereal, magical, seductive, earthly, other-worldly, bewitching, captivating, and present moment awareness. Have I got your attention yet? Let me teach you how to teach to this amazing genre of music!Read more…