[3] He cites his musical influences as including fellow Cape Bretoner Gordie Sampson.

[4] On Canadian Idol in 2008, MacDonald worked with such artists as Anne Murray, Simple Plan, Gavin Rossdale, and Tom Jones.

"[6] He received accolades in particular for his rendition of Joel Plaskett's "Love This Town", which drew comparisons to Paul Simon from the judges.

[7] Nova Scotia Premier Rodney MacDonald, a musician himself before entering politics, said, "The key to his success throughout the contest was that he remained true to his musical roots.

[9][10] As of 2010, he continued to tour occasionally, both in his home province and in other parts of Canada, and he started work on an album.