Q&A with The Tenors' Fraser Walters

Fraser comprises a quarter of the team of The Tenors – those Juno award winning, multi-platinum Canadian crooners. They’ve sung everywhere that’s anywhere - including the Emmy’s, The Diamond Jubilee, even the NFL playoffs.  

They’ve serenaded Her Majesty the Queen, President Obama and the First Lady, and performed in front of millions on Oprah. Despite their spiffy suits (they’re always clad in Georgio Armani) and the long list of A-listers with whom they’ve shared the stage (Paul McCartney, Celine Dion & Sarah McLachlan - to name a few), The Tenors are famously down-to-earth, and quickly win audiences over with their sweet and sincere charm.  

On the road - oh, about 300 days a year - these are a busy bunch of guys. Fraser, rumoured to be the most health-conscious Tenor, took a little time out to dish about how he keeps his health and vocal chords finely tuned despite concerts almost every other night. 

Spoiler: Read on to find out The Tenors’ secret to healthy vocal chords & their backstage demands!

Being on so many planes, trains and automobiles, what’s the best way to keep yourself fueled?

I always carry organic protein/greens bars and raw almonds in my carry-on, as well as oatmeal and Vega powders in my luggage.

What don’t you eat & why?

I'll spare you because it's pretty long at the moment. I recently did a comprehensive allergy test and now avoid lots of specific foods - including some favourites like salmon and beets. (I'm shattered!) Otherwise, I generally avoid processed foods, soy, dairy and gluten - unless there’s a melted chocolate brownie with ice cream that needs attention…

Food discovery you're shocked you enjoy: 

Do fish eggs, seaweed, or wheatgrass count? 

What’s in your fridge right now? 

Hopefully nothing or it will look like a science experiment when I get home! Actually, I do have almond butter and beer. Mmmmm.

Who do you look to for health and wellness advice?

My wife is really inspiring in that department. She's currently on a busy tour in Europe and still managing to do the 'Insanity' workout DVDs daily. My mom still runs marathons so I’m lucky to be in good company. My entire family has always been very active and I’m extremely proud and grateful for that.

The best piece of health advice you’ve ever received?

That great health is not only a physical attribute - it also carries equal mental and spiritual aspects that deserve attention.

Singing so many back-to-back shows - how do you keep sore throats at bay?

The main cure-all is Oil of Oregano. It's treated with reverence around The Tenors camp. Beyond that – it’s staying hydrated and sleeping enough. The latter is often the hardest part with our schedules.

We've heard that you're the healthiest Tenor. Do Clifton, Remigio or Victor come to you for health advice?

We’re constantly talking about the best ways to stay healthy, as it's paramount to our jobs, night-in and night-out. We’re all learning new things as it relates to holistic heath and wellness - it's a fascinating field that never ceases to amaze. 

Do The Tenors have any quirky riders (backstage food demands) at shows?

We have coconut water, almonds, veggies, chicken and a few fun things on there that we'll leave to the imagination of the readers...

Hmmm… Possibly more of those melted chocolate brownies with ice cream? Although we don’t imagine those Armani suits would fit for long if that were the case!

Seeing The Tenors live in concert is a must, but for a sneak peek check ‘em out on YouTube. We challenge you not to feel inspired and uplifted. (Pssst…You won’t succeed.)

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Nicole Boileau is a Vancouver-based RHN who loves spending time outdoors and dreaming up as many healthy porridge recipes as possible. Get in touch to talk all things food and health and check out her website for more recipe inspiration!