While his instrumental focus was on the fiddle, Parenteau also developed mastery of mandolin, guitar, and vocals. In 1991, Parenteau left the safety of Canada, and joined country megastar Neal McCoy as a touring musician. Parenteau spent the majority of his time off the road in the 12 years he played alongside McCoy in Nashville, but would eventually head back, and in 2003 Parenteau began his solo career, based in Prince Albert. In the first three years of his solo career, Parenteau scored a number of regional and Canadian Aboriginal music awards, and his 2006 album, What It Takes, was a huge success. He continued his critical success into 2007, winning even more awards, and in 2008 was nominated for his country's highest music honor, the Juno Awards. ~ Chris True