 CBC Radio One producer Kai Black, CBC host Brent Bambury, singer-songwriter Ron Sexsmith and Relient K's Matt Thiessen were among early supporters.In 2006, Bartholomew won
 the songwriting contest held by Toronto's #1 Pop/AC radio station MIX 99.9 FM (CKFM-FM) and toured with Randy Bachman and Burton Cummings.Several labels responded favourably to his debut, but Bartholomew opted to forego a major label deal.