By: Matt Weingarden, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, Tilbury Times Reporter
This September, the fourth annual Last Call Before Fall (LCBF) delivered two nights of great music, good times, and community celebration—highlighted by a high‑energy performance from HiGGi Country Music, led by local singer‑songwriter and frontman Rob Higgins. Taking the stage on Saturday night, the band lit up the crowd with a mix of crowd‑pleasing covers and original songs, including Higgins’ latest single, Day Drinking, which has been gaining attention both locally and abroad.
Presented in collaboration with Tourism Windsor Essex Pelee Island, LCBF unfolded over September 11 and 12. HiGGi’s Saturday night set, running from 9:30 to 11 p.m., proved to be one of the weekend’s standout moments, reinforcing the band’s growing presence in the region’s country music scene.
From Firefighter to Frontman
Many know Rob Higgins through his long career as a city firefighter—a role that has shaped his outlook on life. “I’ve lived a few different lives already, and I’m not done yet,” Higgins says. “Part of a team that shows up every single day during the worst day of someone’s life changes you. It teaches you what matters, what doesn’t, and how short and valuable life is.”
But long before fire trucks and sirens, there was music. Higgins has been writing and performing for most of his life. “It was never just a hobby—always a dream sitting in the background, waiting for its turn,” he reflects. Life’s responsibilities sometimes put those dreams on hold, but as Higgins says, “If they’re real dreams, they never go away.”
A Story of Second Chances
With his children grown and retirement on the horizon, Higgins feels it might finally be “Dad’s turn” to chase the dream again. Over the years, he’s worn many hats—nightclub owner, animal rescuer, business builder, and always, songwriter. “I’ve seen people at their best and worst, and it taught me one thing—second chances matter, and to never give up on what you believe in.”
That perseverance is reflected in HiGGi’s music and the support he’s received from fans, friends, and family. “The number of people who tell me they want to see me make it to the next level is something I will never forget. When people believe in you, it makes you work harder, and it makes you want to give back when you achieve what you set out to do.”
Momentum and Milestones
HiGGi Country Music has been gaining momentum, with Day Drinking—a feel‑good anthem about growing older and partying a little earlier—receiving radio play as far away as Brazil. The band’s blend of covers and heartfelt originals has earned them opening slots for legends like Alabama at Casino Windsor, and this fall, a milestone Toronto debut at the legendary El Mocambo.
“I’m honoured to be gigging and recording live at the legendary El Mocambo. We’ve been having an incredible time playing across Southern Ontario, and we’re excited to bring the party to Toronto for what promises to be a memorable night of great music and good times,” Higgins shares.
The Best Is Yet to Come
While Higgins is focusing more on writing and recording these days, his passion for live performance remains strong. “The best part is—the story isn’t finished yet. I’m still working hard. I’m still writing songs. I’m still chasing the dream.”
And for anyone who thinks it’s too late to pursue their own passions, Higgins offers this advice: “It’s never too late. You’re never too old. You’re dead for a long time, so you might as well live the best life you can.”
As HiGGi Country Music took the LCBF stage, Higgins’ journey reminded audiences that sometimes the encore is the most inspiring part of the show.