The Second Edition (More stories! More pics! More fun!) out now through FriesenPress.
Or, order from your fave bookstore!
Or, order from your fave bookstore!
A HAPPY HAS-BEEN
Exciting Times and Lessons Learned by One of Canada's Foremost Entertainment Journalists (Second Edition)
BY BILL WELYCHKA
Featuring a Foreword by The Tragically Hip's Paul Langlois
Many of the book's subjects have their own copy...Vanilla Ice acquired his in 2023
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Since first stepping in front of MuchMusic’s national cameras in 1992, Bill Welychka has become one of Canada’s most enduring, recognizable and respected television personalities.
He has over 5,000 interviews under his belt (and counting!) - including film and TV stars, royalty, politicians, athletes and the planet’s biggest music legends. He is renowned for his thoughtful interview style and his love and knowledge of a wide range of topics from pop-culture to politics. Bill is very respected among his peers and his arduous work has been rewarded by many exclusives and awards. Bill Welychka has been hearing for decades “You should write a book!” Well, that book is here. The celebrated media icon also shares the important life-lessons he has learned during his blessed life. Partial proceeds of the book will be donated to the White Ribbon Campaign and various women’s shelters across Canada. |
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Buy Your Copy!
Bill's A Happy Has-Been (2nd Edition) available from FriesenPress and most major retailers!
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Specifications:
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ISBNs for SECOND EDITION:
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What a great thrill to meet people who have my book. I love meeting YOU and hearing your thoughts.
I especially love getting pics from people who have the book. Your comments are always welcomed!
I am active on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Feel free to send pics on these platforms. I encourage you!
We will chat soon!
I especially love getting pics from people who have the book. Your comments are always welcomed!
I am active on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
Feel free to send pics on these platforms. I encourage you!
We will chat soon!
Praise for the Book!
“An extremely intimate, genuine and unshakeably honest journey into pop culture fame and the unstoppable path to self-realization, truth and happiness.”
-Kris Abbott / Musician (Kris+Dee, The Pursuit of Happiness)
"With his book, Bill Welychka cements his legacy as one of Canada’s most enduring and beloved entertainment journalists, offering a wealth of stories and insights gathered across his fascinating career. The memoir is a testament to the power of resilience, reinvention, and staying true to oneself .”
-Dan Savoie / 519 Magazine
“Bill’s memoir is both a creative workbook and an authoritative musical reference. 35 years after it all began, he shares his richly textured and personal music memories. It is a fanfreakintastic reminisce of yesteryear. This notable book is a must-have to add to your collection of highly addictive reads. It will thrill all his fans!”
-The Wire MEGAzine
“Bill has proven to be an exceptional writer. [A Happy Has-Been] will excite any fan of music or Bill’s fans. This book is chock-full of information about the music business.”
-Rick Revelle / Author Algonquin Quest series
“I love that he chronicled his story in book form. There were laughs and there were lessons, tales and tears. And Bill is the same guy from all those years ago – charming and genuine. You’ll love this book. I sure did!”
-Kevin Shea / Hockey historian and Author
“If you grew up with MuchMusic, you understand the impact the VJs had on your life. Bill Welychka was one of the greats. We’re blessed with inside access to the life and times of Bill, who it turns out is much more than a beloved VJ. He’s a beloved human being.”
-Toronto Mike'd Podcast
“Bill is one of Canada's most charismatic, trusted and respected television and radio personalities. Bill's story and rise to Canadian music journalism fame is iconic. Absolutely compelling and impressive! An addictive read!"
-Sophia Radisch/ Guitar Thrills Magazine
Buyer's Comments On-line
"I have to say this was one of the best books I have ever had the pleasure of reading, and I am an avid reader! (Bill) was honest, sincere, and as usual down right hilarious! I had laughter, tears and moments of HUH? and WOW!
You're the best Bill and we share a common love for animals!"
- Patricia W. September 2023
"I did enjoy reading this book. I know nothing about rock & roll music and artists or television technology but Bill's warmth and honesty kept me turning pages. Reading it was like spending time with an interesting, delightful person and coming away feeling that the world is a good place."
- Norma C. September 2023
"Great Rock n Roll stories! Bill's amazing ride as one of Canada's best music journalists makes for a great read! He interviewed EVERYONE...and had some wild times along the way."
- Martygirldog October 2023
"Gotta be one of THE best music autobiographies I've ever read! Bravo!"
- Glenda F. October 2023
"My only complaint about Bill's book is that it should've been longer! I wanted to read more!"
- Maggie D. November 2023
"If you don't know Bill Welychka, you really should! Your book was fantastic! Please do a part 2! Run, don't walk to your nearest bookstore and get this book!"
-Lydia B. November 2023
"If you haven't read his book, you really should pick up a copy. It's a great read!"
-Wendy L. December 2023
"I finished your book and I just wanna say I didn't want it to end! Great stuff and a truly great read! I am waiting for Volume II!"
-Daphne A. February 2024
"His book is a fun read! It sounds like he made a lot of decisions based on his own personal integrity and values, which I really respect."
-Jai/ localfm_cfmh March 2024
"An amazing read! Inspirational, inspiring, and raw. I loved it!
-Bev T. June 2024
"When I was a kid growing up in Red Deer, I lived off MuchMusic. You weren't just a favorite host, you were also the guy that gave information and had cool news hits that made the industry fun to watch... just know that to thousands of strangers, even millions, you always made a positive impact and set the bar on what a pro should be."
-Mike M. July 2024
"The greatest and most joyful surprise to read A Happy Has-Been... Bill is as genuine off screen as he is on. As down to earth as it gets. That's so beautiful & rare in this industry. (His book) is such a great read and is such a special front-row seat into the world of Entertainment Journalism and Music."
-Lizz D. Oct. 2024
"He is just amazingly engaging with people... I don't think I've ever seen an interviewer who keeps people on their toes with his wit and intelligence while never making them feel less about themselves."
-Kena1283. Dec. 2024
News & Events
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What a great time on the 2024 Ontario book tour!! A lot of love and beautiful connections made again. See links below for video highlights THANK YOU TO ALL THE MEDIA! I am grateful to the dozens of media outlets across Canada (and the world!) that have interviewed me and that are spreading the word about the book. It's heart-warming and a blessing to realize people are curious and want to know more about the book. Wow! All I tried to do at the very start of this process was jot down some fun memories and somehow, the writings grew to the point when I realized "Umm...I think I have a book here." Sincere thanks for being interested! 
Global News Morning National 2023
CTV Your Morning National 2023
THANK YOU...
Toronto's "Breakfast Television" on CityTV Friday October 4 2024 to promote my appearance at the first ever NOSTALGIACON Toronto! We also promoted the book and the feature film "Still Alive in Kingston". 
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 The Tragically Hip's Paul Langlois receives his copy of the book. Paul wrote the book's awesome and thoughtful Foreword!
Oct. 1/ 2 2024 in Kingston...
United Way Kingston, Frontenac, Lennox & Addington proved to be the big winners of the new docuseries "The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal". The event, sponsored by McDougall Insurance & Financial, took place at The Isabel Bader Centre for the Performing Arts. The first two episodes of "The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal" were screened and I lead the charge with post-screenings Q&As...featuring Director Mike Downie, and Executive Producer/ Manager Jake Gold and members of The Tragically Hip. Joanne Langlois spearheaded the 2024 United Way Campaign. Way to go, Jo!!! 
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MEDIA HIGHLIGHTS...
It was an amazing time Saturday, September 9 2023 for the Kingston book launch at the Tir Nan Og pub.
There was a lot of love in the room. Thank you!
See link below for highlights.
(A lot of money raised for Interval House Women's Shelter.)
It was an honour to walk the red carpet with many ex-coworkers Sept. 22 2023 for the Canadian premiere in Toronto of "299 Queen Street West".
Director Sean Menard's doc did a Canadian tour and SOO much fun doing some of the dates. The best part was meeting awesome people and taking part in the fun Q&As following the screenings. Cheers to everyone that came out!
**Also, see links below for some great National TV interviews regarding "A Happy Has-Been"!
There was a lot of love in the room. Thank you!
See link below for highlights.
(A lot of money raised for Interval House Women's Shelter.)
It was an honour to walk the red carpet with many ex-coworkers Sept. 22 2023 for the Canadian premiere in Toronto of "299 Queen Street West".
Director Sean Menard's doc did a Canadian tour and SOO much fun doing some of the dates. The best part was meeting awesome people and taking part in the fun Q&As following the screenings. Cheers to everyone that came out!
**Also, see links below for some great National TV interviews regarding "A Happy Has-Been"!
Bill Welychka
Check out some of my favourite hits from my career in the videos below, and check out more on my YouTube channel here!
The Bill Welychka Promo-cards/ Pics Collection
Jay Middaugh's written and directed feature "Still Alive in Kingston" had its world premiere at the sold-out Grand Theatre in Kingston on March 2 during the Kingston Canadian Film Festival 2025. The script is loosely based on Bill Welychka's autobiography "A Happy Has-Been". (Of course, Jay's script took many "creative" liberties with Bill's ACTUAL life.) The film also features Anna Sudac and many prominent Kingstonians and some Canadian cultural icons.
Bill says "I agreed to partake in the film because the script is BIG and brilliant and also very funny!
Most importantly, the thread throughout the film is music."
Jay has carefully woven into the narrative, a showcase of Kingston’s music scene with live performances and interviews…it is a hybrid comedy film/ music documentary.
The Official Trailers…
"Still Alive in Kingston" feature film debuts at the 2025 Kingston Canadian Film Fest
"Still Alive in Kingston" feature film Trailer
"Still Alive in Kingston" feature film Trailer #3
A Word from the Production Team:
We're so excited about what we've shot during production! We want to take Bill, Kingston and this heartfelt and hilarious movie all across Canada!
Still Alive In Kingston | Kingston Canadian Film Festival
Please enjoy the following graphics and on-set photographs taken during some of the production of "Still Alive in Kingston"...AND some shots from opening night...
Bill says "I agreed to partake in the film because the script is BIG and brilliant and also very funny!
Most importantly, the thread throughout the film is music."
Jay has carefully woven into the narrative, a showcase of Kingston’s music scene with live performances and interviews…it is a hybrid comedy film/ music documentary.
The Official Trailers…
"Still Alive in Kingston" feature film debuts at the 2025 Kingston Canadian Film Fest
"Still Alive in Kingston" feature film Trailer
"Still Alive in Kingston" feature film Trailer #3
A Word from the Production Team:
We're so excited about what we've shot during production! We want to take Bill, Kingston and this heartfelt and hilarious movie all across Canada!
Still Alive In Kingston | Kingston Canadian Film Festival
Please enjoy the following graphics and on-set photographs taken during some of the production of "Still Alive in Kingston"...AND some shots from opening night...
A selection of some of my favourite videos from my YouTube Channel...
A busy but fun time travelling to Chapters, Indigo and Coles locations around Ontario for in-store signing appearances in late 2023 and 2024.
Enjoy these travelogues of select in-store appearances!
Ontario Bookstore Tour (April 2024)
Hamilton and Welland appearances (Nov. 3-4 2023)
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