One of Pictou County’s claims to fame has landed a new gig.
The Fell announced Wednesday on their website the addition of former INXS frontman J.D. Fortune who was raised in Salt Springs and attended West Pictou High School.
The Fell features guitar player and multi-platinum producer Mike Krompass, bass legend Billy Sheehan (Winery Dogs, Mr. Big), and notorious session drummer Randy Cooke, who has played with names such as Dave Stewart, Ian Gillan and Ringo Starr.
Fortune first made a name for himself back in 2005 on the hit TV show 'Rockstar: INXS' where he was handpicked and chosen to be the new face for iconic rock band INXS. During his time with the band, he wrote the multi-platinum selling hit 'Pretty Vegas.'
2011 saw Fortune's official departure from the band after a long battle with personal issues. Now, he'll be stepping into the role of lead vocalist for The Fell.
"It's no secret that my story is one of highs and lows. I've had some incredible experiences and just over 11 years ago, my biggest low. I was battling addiction and depression and it was the toughest fight I've ever experienced in my life. The hardest part was admitting to myself that I needed help, and asking for it,” Fortune said in a release. “It was a tough road to recovery, but I can proudly say that I faced my demons and won. Sadly, this isn't always the case for everyone in my situation. That's why I'm happy to talk about it.”
He said he hopes his experiences help someone else who may be facing the same battles.
"Regarding The Fell, Mike and I have been friends for a while and he mentioned he was looking for a vocalist. I jumped at the chance, I feel it's the right time for me to really get fully submerged back into my music. We have already been writing and recording new material for the upcoming album. I'm really excited, the songs are awesome,” Fortune said.
Krompass said they are excited to have Fortune in the band.
“The new material is really strong and we have even been writing with legendary songwriter Desmond Child on a couple of tracks and will be releasing our new single in the upcoming months,” Krompass said. “There's so much going on behind the scenes at the moment and we can't wait to share it with our fans."
