Generated by All in One SEO v5.0.1.1, this is an llms.txt file, used by LLMs to index the site. # Roots Music Canada Listening to Canadian roots music, and loving it. ## Sitemaps - [XML Sitemap](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website. ## Posts - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/09/11/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-61/) - NOTABLE CANADIANS TO CHECK OUT AT AMERICANAFEST 2026 Americanafest 2026 takes over Nashville once again next week (Sept. 15-19), and despite tensions between the U.S. and Canada, our homegrown country/roots scene will be proudly represented. If you happen to be going, here's a list of the Canadian artists who will be showcasing: Bob Sumner The - [Starpainter adds a fresh coat of sonic colour on stunning new album Cayenne Flowerbed](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/09/11/starpainter-adds-a-fresh-coat-of-sonic-colour-on-stunning-new-album-cayenne-flowerbed/) - Following the singles "I Found a River" and "Rabbits," Starpainter has released their latest album Cayenne Flowerbed, an 11-song collection that sees the band’s sonic ambitions, established on their internationally acclaimed 2023 album Rattlesnake Dream, pushed even further. Produced in Calgary by Chris Dadge—who also plays drums with Alvvays and Chad VanGaalen—Cayenne Flowerbed began as - [Why Mimi O'Bonsawin called her latest album 'Evoke'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/09/12/why-mimi-obonsawin-called-her-latest-album-evoke/) - Dictionaries define the word “evoke” as meaning “to bring a feeling, memory or image into the conscious mind.” For singer-songwriter Mimi O’Bonsawin, it means sparking a fire and being inspired. It’s for that reason she’s called her new album, Evoke. Over the last few years Mimi and her husband, Ryan Schurman, have toured across Canada - [Shy-Anne Hovorka releases 'Raise My Fist' with more than 30 Indigenous and ally artists](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/09/10/shy-anne-hovorka-releases-raise-my-fist-with-more-than-30-indigenous-and-ally-artists/) - Award winning Ojibwe singer songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, humanitarian, and educator Shy-Anne Hovorka has released her new single and music video, "Raise My Fist." Inspired by former Long Lake #58 First Nation Chief Judy Desmoulin, the song stands as a celebration of Indigenous strength, unity, and the ongoing journey of reconciliation, brought to life by a community - [Son of James reimagines a Chicks classic as if it had been written in Vancouver's Chinatown](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/09/09/son-of-james-reimagines-a-chicks-classic-as-if-it-had-been-written-in-vancouvers-chinatown/) - Vancouver's Son of James has released a cover of The Chicks' "There's Your Trouble," rebuilt through the band's own Chinese Canadiana lens and pulled from an unlikely source: a Lunar New Year party still in the planning stages. The idea took shape mid-commute. "I was driving home from work while organizing Fire Horse Rising, our - [Roots Music Canada's 2025 New Discovery of the Year, Honeybear, has a new album out](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/09/09/roots-music-canadas-2025-new-discovery-of-the-year-honeybear-has-a-new-album-out/) - Vancouver-based vintage soul, blues and roots quartet Honeybear, the Band has just released its new album, The Cure, marking the follow-up to a debut that turned four longtime friends into one of Canada's fastest rising roots acts. The band celebrates with two album release shows, first at Upstairs in Victoria tonight alongside Emmett Jerome, then - [4 amazing shows to kick off the Rogue Folk Club's 2026-2027 season](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/09/08/4-amazing-shows-to-kick-off-the-rogue-folk-clubs-2026-2027-season/) - As the summer winds to a close, folk club season is getting fired up, and the Rogue Folk Club is giving us plenty of reasons to spend an evening indoors this month, especially if you're a fan of Celtic music and/or amazing guitarists. Tony McManus and Steve Dawson (who will perform with Joachim Cooder - - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/09/04/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-60/) - BLUE RODEO'S "HASN'T HIT ME YET" FINDS NEW MEANING IN ELBOWS UP ERA Is it really necessary to go over how stupid the world is at the moment? Case in point: Only a few weeks ago, Blue Rodeo fans were preparing to spend a pleasant late summer evening, as they do every year, communing with - [Cape Breton's Aaron MacDonald urges living life to the fullest on new single 'Makin' Time'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/09/04/cape-bretons-aaron-macdonald-urges-living-life-to-the-fullest-on-new-single-makin-time/) - On his new single “Makin’ Time," Aaron MacDonald offers a classic road song that also serves as a metaphor for getting the most out of what we’ve been given. It's the first taste of the Nova Scotian singer-songwriter's upcoming EP Big Red Sky, which continues to build Aaron's reputation as one of the east coast - [SOCAN sues AI music-maker Suno for copyright infringement](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/09/03/socan-sues-ai-music-maker-suno-for-copyright-infringement/) - The organization that collects performance royalties on behalf of Canadian artists has filed suit against a popular generative AI platform, saying Suno, which generates music for users in response to prompts, is violating performance rights. SOCAN is seeking, among other things, punitive damages of $10 million and a permanent injunction preventing Suno from continuing to - [Susan Aglukark turned a poem into her new single, 'For You'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/09/02/susan-aglukark-turned-a-poem-into-her-new-single-for-you/) - Inuk singer, songwriter, and Officer of the Order of Canada Susan Aglukark releases "For You," known in Inuktitut as "Igvit" (????), on Tuesday, Sept. 8, the lead single from her upcoming EP Disco Ball. The song began as a poem Susan wrote in 2022 titled "Igvit," the Inuktitut word for simply "you," and grew over - [Late singer-songwriter David Wiffen was a Canadian folk icon](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/09/01/late-singer-songwriter-david-wiffen-was-a-canadian-folk-icon/) - Canada lost an iconic member of its folk music scene earlier this year. Singer-songwriter David Wiffen passed away following a short illness in May Court Hospice in Ottawa on April 5 at the age of 84. David built a reputation as “one of Canada’s finest songwriters in contemporary folk music,” according to the Canadian Encyclopedia. He - [Festival recap: RIFF L’Assomption](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/29/festival-recap-riff-lassomption/) - Guitar enthusiasts should take note of RIFF L’Assomption for next year. Just a 45-minute drive northeast of Montreal, the three-day festival celebrates guitar “in all its forms,” with a lineup spanning fingerstyle, folk, blues, rock and contemporary acoustic music. It is truly a guitar nerd’s festival. From Aug. 13–15, RIFF took over downtown L’Assomption with - [Concert review: Irish Millie at Waring House, Picton ON](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/22/concert-review-irish-millie-at-waring-house-picton-on/) - Irish Millie is 19 and she comes from Peterborough, and that's all she has to say about that as she settles into a sunset show at Waring House, the popular Picton Ontario inn. Although there is a jazz festival incursion happening downtown, the venue, a dinner/bar/roadhouse near the roundabout, is full of roots fiddle aficionados - [Grievous Angels offer new Elbows Up anthem "In The Time Of Monsters"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/28/grievous-angels-offer-new-elbows-up-anthem-in-the-time-of-monsters/) - When Canadian roots rockers Grievous Angels released their latest album Revolution back in the spring, it was difficult to imagine that the country's relationship with the United States could get much worse. But now, just several months later, an apparent full-scale trade war has made Canadians of all political stripes more determined than ever to - [Dolly Parton 1946 - 2026](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/28/dolly-parton-1946-2026/) - Dolly Parton, singer-songwriter, actress, businesswoman and philanthropist, died Aug. 25 at age 80. Newspaper The Tennessean reported that she spent her final days being treated at Nashville's Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, and that she passed peacefully surrounded by family. The word "icon" is so often tossed around blithely, but Dolly Parton truly lived up to the - [Bruce Murdoch: A personal reminiscence by Bill Garrett](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/27/bruce-murdoch-a-personal-reminiscence-by-bill-garrett/) - I first met Bruce Murdoch in 1968. I had been in Montreal for about a year playing in a duo with Dennis Brown as well as playing backup guitar for a few other singers, most of whom were hanging out at the Yellow Door Coffee House. The “Door” was at the centre of the Montreal - [Here are your nominees for the Ontario Folk Music Awards](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/26/here-are-your-nominees-for-the-ontario-folk-music-awards/) - Folk Canada has announced the nominees for the annual Ontario Folk Music Awards to be handed out this year in conjunction with the organization's annual conference in Hamilton. The ceremony at The Studio will also include the announcement of this year's Estelle Klein Award, Colleen Peterson Songwriting Award and Culture in Climate Award recipients. Although - [6 covers of Tragically Hip songs by Indigenous artists](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/25/6-covers-of-tragically-hip-songs-by-indigenous-artists/) - It's been 10 years since the Tragically Hip played their final concert, broadcast live across the country from their hometown of Kingston. Last week, communities across Canada held screenings of that show in memory of Gord Downie. Downie was the author and musician behind The Secret Path, a book and song/video cycle about Chanie Wenjack, - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/21/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-59/) - INDIGENOUS ARTISTS UNITE FOR FOREST FIRE BENEFIT CONCERT This summer, forest fires have once again wreaked havoc across Canada, specifically impacting many First Nations communities with evacuation orders. In response, a group of 25 of the country's leading Indigenous musicians are teaming up to raise funds for the Mikinakoos Children’s Fund, the registered Canadian charity - [Cabin Fever pay tribute to The Tragically Hip with haunting cover of "38 Years Old"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/21/cabin-fever-pay-tribute-to-the-tragically-hip-with-haunting-cover-of-38-years-old/) - August 20, 2016 is a date that has become indelibly etched within the Canadian psyche. It was the day of The Tragically Hip’s final concert in their hometown of Kingston, Ontario, an emotionally charged event that united their millions of fans from coast to coast. Ontario alt-country/bluegrass band Cabin Fever is marking the 10th anniversary - [Remembering Canadian vocalist and producer R Zee Jackson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/19/remembering-canadian-vocalist-and-producer-r-zee-jackson/) - Known for his showmanship and gregarious personality, R Zee Jackson, familiar to many as Esso, was a Jamaican Canadian singer and record producer, and, in Toronto, a conspicuous and responsive source of Canadian Rasta aesthetics and sensibilities. He passed away peacefully on July 24. Arriving in Canada in 1975, R Zee found work singing and - [Here's how Toronto's Hugh's Room is finally becoming accessible](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/24/heres-how-torontos-hughs-room-is-finally-becoming-accessible/) - Hugh’s room has been a staple in the Toronto folk scene for over 20 years. The venue has hosted hundreds of events and held shows with legendary artists like Pete Seeger and Odetta. But one consistent problem for the venue has been a lack of accessibility for people with mobility impairments. Michael Booth, the executive - [Tobique First Nation's Mike Bern Explores the Legacy of War and Fatherhood on "The Belt"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/20/tobique-first-nations-mike-bern-explores-the-legacy-of-war-and-fatherhood-on-the-belt/) - Tobique First Nation, New Brunswick singer-songwriter Mike Bern has released "The Belt," a haunting new single that looks unflinchingly at the lasting effects of war on one man's fatherhood. Written from a child's point of view, the song moves between fear, respect and an eventual understanding of a father whose battles did not end when - [Bruce Cockburn honours the songs that shaped him on his forthcoming album, The Blood of Others](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/18/bruce-cockburn-honours-the-songs-that-shaped-him-on-his-forthcoming-album-the-blood-of-others/) - Bruce Cockburn has spent more than five decades writing some of the most enduring songs in Canadian music, and on his new album, The Blood of Others, coming Oct. 16 through Sunset Boulevard Records, he turns his attention to the songs that shaped him long before he wrote a single lyric of his own. The - [The Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival is back on track for its 50th after a successful 49.5](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/17/the-newfoundland-and-labrador-folk-festival-is-back-on-track-for-its-50th-after-a-successful-49-5/) - Two months ago, organizers of the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival weren't sure the event would go ahead this year. But a groundswell of community support and an influx of funding from the Government of Newfoundland & Labrador and the City of St. John's allowed the event to not only happen but to be free - [Album review: The McDades - Thread The Light](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/16/album-review-the-mcdades-thread-the-light/) - Just in case you don't know, Edmonton, AB’s The McDades are Shannon Johnson on fiddle and vocals, Solon McDade on upright bass and vocals, and Jeremiah McDade on whistle, saxophone and vocals, with Andy Hillhouse on guitar. It also features a fine group of guest musicians. It’s only right they should all be name checked - [Live from the Saturday daytime stages at the Live from the Rock folk festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/08/live-from-the-saturday-daytime-stages-at-the-live-from-the-rock-folk-festival/) - 11:14 a.m. - Our stage host at the Creekside Stage opens the morning by telling us that she's from Duluth, MN, she apologizes for their president, and she just had a weepy moment because a random festival-goer made her an honorary Canadian with whatever power was invested in him to do so. Everybody applauds because - [B.C.'s Cari Burdett shares 'Where Is Love' from upcoming album Don't Forget](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/14/b-c-s-cari-burdett-shares-where-is-love-from-upcoming-album-dont-forget/) - “Where Is Love” heralds the return of B.C.-based singer-songwriter Cari Burdett after a lengthy recording hiatus. A gorgeous slice of pop-soul that would surely make Carole King smile, "Where Is Love" previews Cari's new album Don't Forget -- out Sept. 18 -- seven songs that offer an intoxicating mix of styles that in the end - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/14/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-58/) - BRUCE COCKBURN ANNOUNCES COVERS LP THE BLOOD OF OTHERS Bruce Cockburn has spent more than five decades writing some of the most enduring songs in Canadian music, and on his new album The Blood of Others, out Oct. 16 via Sunset Boulevard Records, he turns his attention to the songs that shaped him long before - [Check out Julian Taylor's new single, 'Drive'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/13/check-out-julian-taylors-new-single-drive/) - With his new single “Drive,” acclaimed Canadian singer-songwriter Julian Taylor meets the stark division and polarization of our current moment with a personal plea for the sort of kindness, connection, and compassion found in Mother Nature’s unconditional love. Julian released “Drive” yesterday on all major platforms. Propelled by Julian’s gentle but insistent acoustic guitar strum, - [Former Saskatchewan NDP leader Ryan Meili releases debut album with Blue Umbrella project](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/12/former-saskatchewan-ndp-leader-ryan-meili-releases-debut-album-with-blue-umbrella-project/) - Saskatoon folk rock outfit Blue Umbrella has released its debut album, Recklessly Yours. Led by singer-songwriter Ryan Meili, better known across Canada as a family doctor, public health advocate and former leader of the Saskatchewan NDP, the record blends 70s folk rock with the grit of 90s prairie bar bands, carrying the depth of perspective - [Photo gallery: Live from the Rock 2026](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/11/photo-gallery-live-from-the-rock-2026/) - The Live from the Rock Folk Festival took place this past weekend in Red Rock, ON, an hour east of Thunder Bay, bringing together an all-Canadian line-up of artists, including Onion Honey, Divka, Donne Roberts, Abigail Lapell, Keegan Richard was one of the photographers on hand for the weekend to document the event, and he - [Festival recap: Live from the Rock Folk Festival Sunday workshop and mainstage](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/10/festival-recap-live-from-the-rock-folk-festival-sunday-workshop-and-mainstage/) - 10:00 a.m.: A man named Bill opens the Make a Joyful Noise workshop with a slow burning cover of "Lord of the Dance," which is so slow that, for the first time in my life, I realize it's actually a gospel song. Onion Honey them introduces "Digging Holes" by saying it's for all the dogs - [Festival recap: Live from the Rock Folk Festival Saturday night mainstage](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/10/festival-recap-live-from-the-rock-folk-festival-saturday-night-mainstage/) - 6:44 p.m.: Thunder Bay artist Katherine Nemec has just wrapped up her set with a smoking cover of "Superstition." I've been catching Katherine here and there throughout the weekend, and I've listened to some of her singles. She is consistently solid, and her sound is marked by a huge voice and catchy melodies. She's one - [Live from the Live from the Rock Folk Festival: Friday night](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/07/live-from-the-live-from-the-rock-folk-festival-friday-night/) - 7:30 p.m. - I check in at the gate at the Live from the Rock folk festival while Luke Warm and the Cold Ones are on stage, and honestly, I'm both impressed with their modern folk sound and surprised to learn it's a local band. I'm looking forward to getting a better look at them - [How the Live from the Rock Folk Festival came alive in the era of hip hop and RnB](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/04/how-the-live-from-the-rock-folk-festival-came-alive-in-the-era-of-hip-hop-and-rnb/) - Unlike many of Canada’s pioneering folk festivals, Live from the Rock in Red Rock, ON was not a product of the 1960s counterculture or an offshoot of 1970s communist organizing. It sprouted up during the decidedly unfolky era of the early 2000s when the hot artists were Beyonce, 50 Cent, Eminem, Destiny’s Child and Alicia - [Check out Garnetta Cromwell's new single 'Come As a Fan (Not as My Man)'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/06/check-out-garnetta-cromwells-new-single-come-as-a-fan-not-as-my-man/) - Every song has a place. Every place has a story. Every story has a soul. Garnetta Cromwell is a powerful Bluefunk vocalist and storyteller with a gift for turning life into song. With a voice that moves hearts and heals souls, Garnetta blends timeless blues with a modern soulful touch. She carries the tradition forward - [Mary Garnett Edwards releases Andreas Schuld-produced single 'Boneyard' ahead of new album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/05/mary-garnett-edwards-releases-andreas-schuld-produced-single-boneyard-ahead-of-new-album/) - Mary Garnett Edwards has spent more than five decades turning her own life into song, and her raw, raspy new single "Boneyard" stands as one of her most haunting works yet. Out now, the track pulls listeners into a money scarce, small town world of poverty, broken trust, and a rage. It is a performance - [How a nasty encounter with a stingray led to Ryan Bissell's debut single](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/05/how-a-nasty-encounter-with-a-stingray-led-to-ryan-bissells-debut-single/) - Niagara-on-the-Lake’s Ryan Bissell has released his debut single, "Get Up Get Ready," a raw, urgent alt-rock track produced by Paul Gigliotti and marking the arrival of a songwriter who spent decades writing music before he ever finished a song. Released through this own label, the track kicks off a catalogue born out of one of - [The Staged Veillée in Quebec](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/08/01/the-staged-veillee-in-quebec/) - On Dec. 31, 2008, I found myself watching a strange spectacle. I was in Montreal celebrating New Year’s Eve, and my father-in-law had turned the television to Radio-Canada’s live year-end extravaganza Bye Bye. I’m a fiddler, my father-in-law plays guitar, and we had been having a small family veillée, or what is often called in - [Scott Cook shares 'Frankie's Braids' from upcoming album Troubadourly Yours](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/31/scott-cook-shares-frankies-braids-from-upcoming-album-troubadourly-yours/) - Scott Cook couldn’t have picked a better title for his eighth album, Troubadourly Yours, out Aug. 21 via Release Guru. The singer-songwriter, born in West Virginia but raised on the Canadian prairies, has devoted the past two decades to touring the world, playing his music in the spirit of one of his formative influences, Woody - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/31/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-57/) - ORVILLE PECK SET TO RETURN WITH MULE The enigma known as Orville Peck has announced the impending arrival of his fourth album, Mule, on Sept. 18 via Warner Music, a 13-song collection that is being previewed with the upbeat first single "Too Little, Too Late." Its bounciness seems at odds with how Peck described Mule - [Book excerpt: Music and the Staged Veillée in Quebec by Laura Risk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/25/book-excerpt-music-and-the-staged-veillee-in-quebec-by-laura-risk/) - Musician Laura Risk straddles two worlds: she is a highly esteemed performer and teacher of Québécois and Scottish fiddling who has received glowing reviews from The Guardian, Songlines and us here at Roots Music Canada. She is also a music scholar and associate professor of music at the University of Toronto Scarborough. She has just released - [Lo & the High Road get Kickstarter love for their sophomore album ft. Saskia Tomkins and Steáfán Hannigan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/30/lo-the-high-road-get-kickstarter-love-for-their-sophomore-album-ft-saskia-tomkins-and-steafan-hannigan/) - Lo & the High Road, the Cobourg-based Celtic project of Lauren Halász and Colin McMahon, have launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund the vinyl and CD pressing of their sophomore album, Standing Stones, due in early fall 2026. And they've already exceeded their modest initial goal. The campaign follows the duo's successful Lanterns in the - [Honeybear, the Band channels vintage soul on 'Just Your Fool'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/29/honeybear-the-band-channels-vintage-soul-on-just-your-fool/) - Vancouver based soul, blues and roots quartet Honeybear, the Band has released its new single "Just Your Fool," a classic blues ballad built around the timeless pull of devotion, even when that devotion may not be entirely returned. The track continues the band's run of vintage inspired storytelling, delivered through the warm, horn laced sound - [Brockville LGBTQIA+ roots rocker Sue Prosser releases 'Mistaken Identity'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/29/brockville-lgbtqia-roots-rocker-sue-prosser-releases-mistaken-identity/) - Brockville, Ontario LGBTQIA+ roots rocker Sue Prosser has released her new single "Mistaken Identity," a song that has spent decades taking shape before finally arriving in its finished form. Recorded in June at Powder Room Studios with producer Randal Orr, the track pairs Sue's driving guitar work and unmistakable stage honed voice with a story - [Review: Angine de Poitrine, July 17 at the Ottawa Bluesfest](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/28/46219/) - Thousands of hands rose overhead in the shape of triangles as two self-proclaimed 333-year-old aliens stood centre stage, turning day seven of Bluesfest into one eccentric show. Hailing from Saguenay, QC, the duo Angine de Poitrine perform as Khn de Poitrine (guitar and bass) and Klek de Poitrine (drums), sporting cartoonishly large heads and exaggerated - [Crystal Shawanda Honours Raul Malo With Soulful Cover of "Come Unto Me," First Single From Upcoming Album 'Homesick Indian Blues'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/27/crystal-shawanda-honours-raul-malo-with-soulful-cover-of-come-unto-me-first-single-from-upcoming-album-homesick-indian-blues/) - Juno Award-winning powerhouse Crystal Shawanda has released "Come Unto Me," a heartfelt cover of The Mavericks classic and the first single from her forthcoming album Homesick Indian Blues. The recording carries deep personal meaning for Crystal, serving as a tribute to Raul Malo, the Mavericks' famed frontman, whose early support helped launch her career. The - [The Divorcees preview upcoming album Another Round with "You've Got That Right"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/24/the-divorcees-preview-upcoming-album-another-round-with-youve-got-that-right/) - On their new single, "You've Got That Right," The Divorcees once again demonstrate why they are one of Canada's finest outlaw country bands. It's the latest preview of their upcoming album, Another Round, due out Aug. 19 and the follow-up to their internationally acclaimed 2021 album, Drop Of Blood. With its vintage Bakersfield swing and - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/24/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-56/) - COLTER WALL TIES THE KNOT It wasn't up to the level of Taylor Swift's extravaganza, but by Saskatchewan standards, Colter Wall's wedding this past weekend was a pretty big deal. Although the singer-songwriter from Swift Current aimed to keep the ceremony private, word got out after a few attendees began posting Instagram stories. They've been - [Review: Billy Bragg, July 16 at the Ottawa Bluesfest](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/23/review-billy-bragg-july-16-at-the-ottawa-bluesfest/) - As the golden evening sun dipped over LeBreton Flats, generations of Billy Bragg fans packed the Hard Rock Stage for a performance that blended folk music, sharp humour and unwavering political passion. This year marked Billy’s first Ottawa Bluesfest appearance since 2016. Festivalgoers, young and old, watched him effortlessly move the crowd by cracking some - [Kentucky's new single is an homage to the Tragically Hip](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/18/kentuckys-new-single-is-an-homage-to-the-tragically-hip-did-he-nail-it/) - Kentucky, the musical project of Almonte-based singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and producer Jordan Holman, releases its stirring new single "In Kingston Tonight," a song that arrives as both a love letter to one of Canada's great music cities and a deeply felt call to every Canadian to take what The Tragically Hip gave us and carry it - [DIVKA brings its feminist Ukrainian folk on tour this summer](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/22/divka-brings-its-feminist-ukrainian-folk-on-tour-this-summer/) - On the heels of their spellbinding new debut album, folk fatale, which sounds ancient as dirt and scans post-modernly feminist as Bikini Kill, the charismatic and revolutionary Ukrainian-rooted duo DIVKA (pronounced 'diva' with a 'k'), launched their LP release tour of Ontario and Western Canada on July 7 and are performing all summer. DIVKA is - [Festival recap: Vancouver Folk Music Festival day 3: Sunday](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/21/festival-recap-vancouver-folk-music-festival-day-3-sunday/) - There is something awfully special and sweet about Amistat, but I’ll have to get to them later, because I discovered them late in the day. I was up early today because i wanted to proof my copy before i submitted it this morning. Even at that I left the house shortly after 10, which would - [Festival recap: Vancouver Folk Music Festival day 2: Saturday](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/19/festival-recap-vancouver-folk-music-festival-day-2-saturday/) - I am trying to take my own advice. I’m sitting down and listening to entire sets. I’m failing. My ADHD is fighting my higher self. The weather looked better this morning, so out came the Birkenstocks. Still wearing jeans in case it cools down. The shirt is short sleeved and linen. I’m counting on the - [Festival recap: The Vancouver Folk Music Festival Day 1: Friday](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/18/festival-recap-the-vancouver-folk-music-festival-day-1-friday/) - Part 1: the anticipation There was a huge thunderstorm last night. It broke up the heat from the last week or so. This morning i woke up to April 25 weather. I call it that from a line in the movie Miss Congeniality. A beauty contestant is asked to define "…the perfect date." She responds - [Kojak co-founder D.B. Tait makes solo debut with cosmic country gem 'Before You Go'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/17/kojak-co-founder-d-b-tait-makes-solo-debut-with-cosmic-country-gem-before-you-go/) - As the latest artist to appear out of the fertile musical soil of Ontario’s Prince Edward County, D.B. Tait makes a powerful first impression with his debut single, “Before You Go.” A haunting cosmic country ballad with echoes of Jason Molina and MJ Lenderman, the song is a preview of a full-length album entitled Losing - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/17/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-55/) - LEVON HELM STUDIOS EMBROILED IN FAMILY DISPUTE During the final years of his life, Levon Helm's great joy was running his studio in Woodstock NY, and in particular the weekly Midnight Ramble, which drew fans and musicians alike from around the world to take part in informal jam sessions that carried on the communal spirit - [Ethan Askey launches new single from Outside the Lines, mixed by Steve Marriner](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/15/ethen-askey-launches-new-single-from-outside-the-lines-mixed-by-steve-marriner/) - Ethan Askey & The Elevators release "Big Bad Bossman," the spirited third single from their forthcoming album Outside the Lines, out now. The upbeat blues shuffle takes aim at every petty tyrant who ever mistook control for strength. Ethan wrote the lyric about a universal figure, any bully or leader whose insecurity and self-regard gets - [5 acts to check out at the Vancouver Folk Music Festival that you may not have already heard](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/16/5-acts-to-check-out-at-the-vancouver-folk-music-festival-that-you-may-not-have-already-heard/) - When the Vancouver Folk Music Festival kicks off in the idyllic paradise of Jericho Beach this weekend, music fans will no doubt make a b-line for some of the big-names on the bill: Aysanabee, Lindi Ortega, Billy Bragg. But choosing who to see among the lesser-known names can sometimes be a challenge – especially with - [Oshawa artist Bedford Bells debuts with single 'Hands at Midnight''](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/16/oshawa-artist-bedford-bells-debuts-with-single-hands-at-midnight/) - Bedford Bells has released "Hands at Midnight," the smouldering lead single from his debut full-length album Fell in Love in My Hometown, out now. The solo moniker of Oshawa, Ontario-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Jeff Adams, Bedford Bells crafts songs rooted in country, Americana, folk, and acoustic storytelling that feel both intimate and enduring, and "Hands - [How immigrant musicians with uncertain residency status face unique challenges in Canada](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/14/how-immigrant-musicians-with-uncertain-residency-status-face-unique-challenges-in-canada/) - Ana Delgadillo is a Mexican artist who moved to Canada five years ago. She arrived in the country to pursue her dream of becoming a musician after enrolling in a two-year music program. When I spoke to her in May, she and her partner had been living off their savings for the past four months - [Stephen Ingram's new single, 'Sour Candy,' is a reflection on adulting written after an ADHD diagnosis](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/13/stephen-ingrams-new-single-sour-candy-is-a-reflection-on-adulting-written-after-an-adhd-diagnosis/) - London, Ontario singer-songwriter Stephen Ingram releases "Sour Candy," the first single from his sophomore album, Silly Things, arriving Sept. 25. The track marks a warm, self-aware entry point into a record that finds Stephen examining the space between who he used to be and who he has become, all set against the specific backdrop of - [Gentlemen of the Woods release 'Worst Kind of Weather' from 3rd album November Embers](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/15/gentlemen-of-the-woods-release-worst-kind-of-weather-from-3rd-album-november-embers/) - Gentlemen of the Woods share their new single "Worst Kind of Weather," a road-worn anthem of perseverance and open highway that captures the band at the height of their storytelling powers. Drawn from their third album, November Embers, the track distils everything that has made the Ottawa group a standout across the Capital region into - [Vancouver Folk Music Festival: When Queen Elisapie tells all the men to stand up, we damn well all stand up!](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/19/when-queen-elisapie-tells-all-the-men-to-stand-up-we-damn-well-all-stand-up/) - The Diggin’ Our Roots workshop was as inspiring as I could have hoped for. It opened almost like a stealth mission. I managed to find a spot close to the stage and settled in to a drift, just watching each of the artists communicate with the sound crews about mic levels for their voices and - [Vancouver Folk Music Festival: Honestly, I couldn’t even keep notes](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/20/42416/) - After the Diggin’ Our Roots workshop, I followed the Zawose Queens over to the south stage, where they jammed with Cris Derksen, Blue Moon Marquee and a native hoop dancer at a workshop called Groove Will Keep Us Together. I tapped out my notes on the previous show. By the time I finished and hit - [Vancouver Folk Music Festival Mornings: Singing Our Way Through Uncertainty](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/21/festival-mornings-singing-our-way-through-uncertainty/) - Cloudy and relatively cool at 17 degrees. It’s kind of hard to know how to dress for festival life. It’s cool now, but likely to warm to at least 20 by this afternoon, and if these clouds burn off, the sun will make it feel hotter still. I’ve opted for loose and layered. Sweatpants have - [Where to find the blues at the Ottawa Bluesfest](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/09/where-to-find-the-blues-at-the-ottawa-bluesfest/) - Ottawa Bluesfest has been the subject of some good-natured ribbing over the years about some of the decidedly “unblues” acts it has chosen to book – notably around 20 years ago when it famously booked Canadian Idol winner Kalan Porter. When the main stage collapsed in a wind storm during Cheap Trick’s set in 2011, - [How the COVID pandemic inspired the Young Novelists' latest album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/11/how-the-covid-pandemic-inspired-the-young-novelists-latest-album/) - It’s amazing to see the lasting impact the COVID-19 pandemic of 2020 has had all these years later. The new Young Novelists album, These Dark Canyons, was a direct result of Graydon James and Laura Spink having to adapt from the usual way of doing things. Just prior to the shutdown, they were involved in - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/10/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-54/) - ELECTIONS ALBERTA REJECTS CORB LUND'S WATER NOT COAL PETITION Regular readers of this column know that we have been closely following Corb Lund's years-long fight to stop the Alberta government from approving new coal mining projects on the eastern slopes of the Rocky Mountains. Last month, Lund announced that his Water Not Coal organization had - [Felicity Hamer & Black Leather Rose pack a punch on debut single 'Heavy Hitter'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/10/felicity-hamer-black-leather-rose-pack-a-punch-on-debut-single-heavy-hitter/) - Felicity Hamer & Black Leather Rose brings together three of the most prominent names on Montreal’s alt-country and garage rock scenes to create a new sound that combines classic honky tonk with modern indie in ways only Montreal musicians can. That sense of adventure is palpable on the group’s self-titled five-song debut EP (six if - [7-Time Canadian Folk Music Award nominee Irish Millie honours her mentor on 'Allison'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/13/7-time-canadian-folk-music-award-nominee-irish-millie-honours-her-mentor-on-allison/) - Irish Millie has just released "Allison," the opening track from her acclaimed EP Between Then and Now and a song that traces the quiet beginnings of one of Canada's most exciting young voices in folk and roots music. Built around the intimate interplay of fiddle and guitar, "Allison" is a tribute to Sally Pirie, the - [Montréal singer-songwriter Silka Weil releases 'Forever' from new EP Midnight Blue](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/09/montreal-singer-songwriter-silka-weil-releases-forever-from-new-ep-midnight-blue/) - Montréal singer-songwriter Silka Weil has released "Forever," a relaxed, feel-good new single that reveals a softer, sun-warmed side of the emerging artist as she releases her second EP, Midnight Blue. Where her recent work has leaned into tension and desire, "Forever" settles into something gentle and secure, an easy-listening ode to the kind of love - [Federal Lights returns after a decade with Celebration of Failure](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/08/federal-lights-returns-after-a-decade-with-celebration-of-failure/) - A full decade after intentionally disbanding, Federal Lights have returned better than ever, with their new (and third) album, Celebration of Failure. Starting in 2010, Jean-Guy Roy built his band slowly, stubbornly, and with a lot of himself in it. From Winnipeg, they carved a sound and a following that crossed oceans. They toured Germany. - [How Calgary's Fish Creek Concerts hit its 20th anniversary year with better attendance than ever](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/07/how-calgarys-fish-creek-concerts-hit-its-20th-anniversary-year-with-better-attendance-than-ever/) - Vic Close was singing in a choir at Southwood United Church in Calgary one night when he had an epiphany of sorts. “I looked around the room and I just thought, like, ‘This would be a perfect place to do concerts,’” he said. “And then I was talking to Bill Werthmann [of Edmonton’s Northern Lights - [Festival recap: Mariposa Folk Festival day 3 - Sunday](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/06/festival-recap-mariposa-folk-festival-day-3-sunday/) - We started our day with a jolt of energy around noon, with Edmonton-based Métis fiddler Darla Daniels and Nova Scotia-based Mi’gmaq fiddler Morgan Toney together at the Barnfield Stage. As both of these hyper-talented players consistently sparked each other to ever-greater heights, the packed crowd quickly grew rabid with dance fever, clapping and cheering along - [Festival recap: Mariposa Folk Festival day 2 - Saturday](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/05/festival-recap-mariposa-folk-festival-day-2-saturday/) - First up for us today was the If A Tree Falls workshop at the Estelle Klein Stage, with Dan Mangan, Mimi O’Bonsawin, Darla Daniels (with her guitarist Matt Papineau), and Boreal (the trio of Katherine Wheatley, Tannis Slimmon, and Angie Nussey). Technical difficulties before the event limited each act to two songs rather than three, - [Festival recap: Mariposa Folk Festival Day 1 - Friday](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/04/festival-recap-mariposa-folk-festival-day-1-friday/) - We started in the evening at the Gordon Lightfoot mainstage, where Billy Bragg was holding court. Forty-four years on, the bard from Barking, U.K., is still strong as ever, using nothing much more than three chords, a smart and bold left-wing viewpoint, a knack for between-song banter, and an accent as thick as London fog. - [Sean Burns is keeping classic country alive with new single 'Glory For Me'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/03/sean-burns-is-keeping-classic-country-alive-with-new-single-glory-for-me/) - After paying tribute to Canada’s forgotten country music heroes on the 2023 covers album Lost Country, Sean Burns is back with an all-original 10-song collection entitled Better Off In Time & Other Songs For The Dance Floor, set to be released Sept. 18 via Department Store Records. The first preview, "Glory For Me," is a - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/03/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-53/) - BRYAN ADAMS RELEASES PROTEST SONG "51ST STATE" ON CANADA DAY There's no questioning Bryan Adams' love of his home country, despite his status as a global star, and his historically fierce opposition to CanCon regulations. He did, after all, co-write "Tears Are Not Enough," Canada's contribution to help fight the African famine crisis in 1985, - [How Cara Luft's 50th birthday spawned a brand new solo album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/06/how-cara-lufts-50th-birthday-spawned-a-brand-new-solo-album/) - Reaching a milestone birthday can be a cause for celebration. You might want to go on a special vacation or challenge yourself to accomplish a meaningful task like running a marathon. Winnipeg singer-songwriter Cara Luft marked her 50th birthday by performing 50 concerts. “I wanted to do a series of concerts that were about celebration, - [Tia McGraff releases new children's single 'Caterpillar Song' along with new book](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/07/02/tia-mcgraff-releases-new-childrens-single-caterpillar-song-along-with-new-book/) - Tia McGraff, the Simcoe, Ontario-based Canadian folk singer-songwriter, children's author, and Norfolk Music Hall of Fame inductee, has released her delightful new children's single "Caterpillar Song" on Bandana Records. It's a warm and wonderfully singable kids' pop anthem that celebrates perseverance, the joy of finding your way home, and the quiet magic of taking life - [Mia Kelly talks about her brand-new album, Big Time Rollercoaster Feeling](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/23/mia-kelly-talks-about-her-brand-new-album-big-time-rollercoaster-feeling/) - Mia Kelly, just released the other songs to her album called Big Time Rollercoaster Feeling, while on tour across Canada. It features five new songs, and six singles that were previously released, as a part of the new album. - [Blues advocates say awards progress is good but there's more to be done to make things fair for Black artists](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/28/blues-advocates-say-awards-progress-is-good-but-theres-more-to-be-done-to-make-things-fair-for-black-artists/) - An advocate for equity in the music business says the newly-minted Canadian Blues Music Awards, which held their inaugural edition at the end of March, appear to have evolved in a way that addresses some concerns about fairness involving the previous Maple Blues Awards. But Raoul Bhaneja, the Irish-Indian actor and blues musician behind the - [Howard Druckman reviews Dan Mangan's Natural Light ahead of his appearance at the Mariposa Folk Fest](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/27/howard-druckman-reviews-dan-mangans-natural-light-ahead-of-his-appearance-at-the-mariposa-folk-fest/) - A two-time JUNO winner and three-time Polaris Music Prize nominee, Dan Mangan has brought his wit, sonic innovation, and lyrical insight to the indie and folk communities for decades, gathering a deeply engaged audience. He’s played Glastonbury and Jimmy Kimmel Live, sold-out Massey Hall, and scored acclaimed soundtracks for TV shows and movies. His most recent album, Natural Light, - [Tanjeryne teams with The Western Thistles on cheeky new single 'God's Problem'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/26/tanjeryne-teams-with-the-western-thistles-on-cheeky-new-single-gods-problem/) - Edmonton, Alberta singer-songwriter Tanjeryne offers a timeless sound that blends classic country with hints of jazz, soul and folk-pop. Her latest collection, Leather & Denim, the follow up to 2024's Stardust & Lost Things due out this fall, is her most compelling yet, produced by Mallory Chipman and featuring some of the city’s most accomplished - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/26/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-52/) - AMANDA MARSHALL MARKS DEBUT ALBUM'S 30TH ANNIVERSARY Thirty years ago, Canadians were formally introduced to powerhouse vocalist Amanda Marshall through her self-titled debut album that managed the rare feat of attaining Diamond status, or one million units in domestic sales. Marshall is set to commemorate that achievement with a 13-date cross-Canada tour this fall dubbed - [Where has all the protest music gone? Inspiring lessons from Minneapolis and Wet?suwet?en territory](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/30/where-has-all-the-protest-music-gone-inspiring-lessons-from-minneapolis-and-wetsuweten-territory/) - On a cold January afternoon dozens gathered in a neighborhood in Minneapolis to protest the murder of Renée Good, a U.S. citizen who was demonstrating against the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) presence in her community. The protests following the incident resulted in something far different than what was expected. There was no - [Why Bev Kreller can't wait to see Justin Rutledge at Mariposa](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/23/why-bev-kreller-cant-wait-to-see-justin-rutledge-at-mariposa/) - “Don’t you be so mean / My jellybean / My Boston cream.” So sang me, my husband, and the audience, all at the top of our lungs, packed like sardines into the front room of the Cameron House in Toronto, with Justin Rutledge leading us, standing on a chair, singing and strumming. That indelible memory - [Starpainter shares 'I Found A River,' first preview of follow-up to Rattlesnake Dream](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/19/starpainter-shares-i-found-a-river-first-preview-of-follow-up-to-rattlesnake-dream/) - As the pride of Lethbridge, AB, a city that serves as the hub of the local rural community, Starpainter likes to think of itself in similar geographic terms—a little bit town, and a little bit country. The six-piece unit demonstrated that on 2023’s Rattlesnake Dream and is set to follow it up this fall with a - [Remembering The Hello Darlins' Mike Little, keyboardist extraordinaire](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/19/remembering-the-hello-darlins-mike-little-keyboardist-extraordinaire/) - Mike Little, co-founder of The Hello Darlins and one of Canada's most accomplished studio musicians, has died at the age of 54. He passed away on June 13 as a result of long-running battle with cancer, which he had kept private. The news was first shared by his wife and musical collaborator Candace Lacina after - [Tyler Ellis launches Hardwarestore at Hugh's Room tomorrow](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/17/tyler-ellis-launches-hardwarestore-at-hughs-room-tomorrow/) - Award-winning singer-songwriter and brilliant storyteller Tyler Ellis released his ninth album to date, Hardwarestore, on June 12th, and celebrates it with a record release party/concert on Thursday at Hugh’s Room in his hometown of Toronto. Hardwarestore is available on all major platforms. For more information please visit any of the artist links below and at - [Review: The Wes Carroll Confabulation - The Capitalocene EP](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/25/review-the-wes-carroll-confabulation-the-capitalocene-ep/) - Victoria’s Wes Carroll Confabulation has long made politics a focus of their music. Never before though, has it been in clearer focus than it is on their latest batch of songs, The Capitolecene EP. On this four-song project, the group dispenses with much of the melodic croon of their earlier output. Instead, Wes assumes a - [Album review: Aly Williams - Mountain Matriarchy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/29/album-review-aly-williams-mountain-matriarchy/) - It was a Thursday morning on a rainy day when I first came across Mountain Matriarchy by Canadian singer-songwriter Aly Williams. The album's mood matched the weather. But it’s also a perfect album to listen to while hiking, driving, or taking the train when the sun is hidden behind clouds. It will accompany you whenever - ['Music is inherently political': Toronto based Artist 'Triton' removes his music from Spotify](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/24/music-is-inherently-political-toronto-based-artist-triton-removes-his-music-from-spotify/) - Toronto artist Triton has become one of the latest to pull his songs from Spotify, citing concerns about the company's "insultingly low royalty payouts," promotion of AI-generated music and funding of weaponry, among other reasons. “The final two straws for me were when I read that the platform was running promotions for ICE, and that - [Kaeley Jade releases The Great Unknown](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/22/kaeley-jade-releases-the-great-unknown/) - For Kaeley Jade, The Great Unknown is about what happens at life’s crossroads. The Edmonton, AB-based Métis singer-songwriter explores those moments across an eight-song blend of folk, indie and rock. Themes of change, turbulence, and spiralling guided Kaeley's journey to create the album. One of the central ideas behind the record was “turning points,” which - [The Vancouver Folk Music Festival nearly died in 2023; here's how its going now](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/20/the-vancouver-folk-music-festival-nearly-died-in-2023-heres-how-its-going-now/) - The Vancouver Folk Music Festival is returning to Jericho Beach Park this July, bringing live music back to one of the city’s most beloved live music settings. Organizers say the festival has been rebuilding and adapting to ongoing financial pressures, after a near-death experience in 2023 and an 11th-hour rescue from the provincial government. “We - [For Ernest channels grief over the loss of a brother and illness of mother on debut album Cinema](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/18/for-ernest-channels-grief-over-the-loss-of-a-brother-and-illness-of-mother-on-debut-album-cinema/) - For Ernest, the Niagara-rooted indie folk duo of Michael Saracino and Tara Stanclik, has just released their debut full-length album Cinema, a luminous and deeply considered record. Written, produced, and performed by Michael and Tara in their own barn studio and brought to life over two extraordinary months in early 2026 with nine guest musicians, - [The Sling Sisters release tender new single 'The Reason' and announce tour dates](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/17/the-sling-sisters-release-tender-new-single-the-reason-and-announce-tour-dates/) - The Sling Sisters, the blues-Americana-country trio from Cambridge and Toronto, Ontario, have just released their gorgeous new single "The Reason," a warm, string-kissed love song that showcases an entirely different dimension of a band already celebrated for its grit, groove, and three-part harmonic fire. Where their debut album, What I Hope to Find, arrived in - [Rae Spoon marks 25 years since coming out as trans with Assigned Country Singer at Birth](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/16/rae-spoon-marks-25-years-since-coming-out-as-trans-with-assigned-country-singer-at-birth/) - Rae Spoon was born on the prairies, where topics like queer identity went undiscussed and peopled praised the name of Jesus. Acceptance was just over the Rockies, but Rae had mountains of their own to climb. On April 10, Rae celebrated their 25th year since coming out as transgender by releasing their 13th studio album, - [5 artists to watch for at the Canadian folk festivals this summer](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/13/5-artists-to-watch-for-at-the-canadian-folk-festivals-this-summer/) - Summer is nearly upon us, festival lineups have all been announced, and the folk festival season is on the horizon. So who will be the acts everyone gets excited about this year? Ben Jorgenson consulted with Winnipeg Folk Fest Artistic Director Chris Frayer and put together this list. Angine de Poitrine From behind their elaborate - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/12/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-51/) - SKYDIGGERS GO BACK TO THE BEGINNING ON LATEST ALBUM WEST MONTROSE Back in 1986, Andy Maize and Josh Finlayson decided to do what few young artists at that time were doing: play acoustic music. Both had been paying their dues in the Toronto post-punk/new wave scene, but bonded over a mutual love of vintage country - [Tyson Ray Borsboom delivers vintage alt-country sounds on new album These Days](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/12/tyson-ray-borsboom-delivers-vintage-alt-country-sounds-on-new-album-these-days/) - After previewing his latest album These Days over the past few weeks with several singles including the title track and "Let You Down, Vancouver-based singer/songwriter Tyson Ray Borsboom has now officially released his new nine-song collection, marking his arrival as one of Canada's rising alt-country stars. Tyson's work on These Days embraces the kind of - [Why East Coast artist Kristen Martell started writing in French](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/11/why-east-coast-artist-kristen-martell-started-writing-in-french/) - When Acadian folk musician Kristen Martell packed up and moved from New Brunswick to Nova Scotia, she left a few things behind. At home in NB, people knew Kristen was full of music, but in NS, friends knew her as a mom and an environmental scientist. “I looked back, and I'm like, ‘My God, this - [Tom Lavin and the Legendary Powder Blues bring their blues to Toronto and London this month](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/10/tom-lavin-and-the-legendary-powder-blues-bring-their-blues-to-toronto-and-london-this-month/) - There are bands and then there are institutions. Tom Lavin & The Legendary Powder Blues belong firmly in the second category, and this June they bring their irresistible, roof-raising blend of blues, swing, jazz, rock and roll, and R&B to two of Ontario's finest listening rooms for what promises to be among the most celebrated - [The McDades release 'Dance Around the Spinning Wheel' and new album Thread the Light](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/09/the-mcdades-release-dance-around-the-spinning-wheel-and-new-album-thread-the-light/) - The McDades have released "Dance Around the Spinning Wheel," the first single from their forthcoming album, Thread the Light. A traditional song arranged and produced by the band, the track arrives as the opening statement from one of the most decorated and deeply loved ensembles in the history of Canadian roots music. Juno Award winners - [4 Canadian female roots record producers in honour of International Women's Day](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/03/07/4-canadian-female-roots-record-producers-in-honour-of-international-womens-day/) - So there I was, scrolling around Facebook, not looking for anything in particular, when I came upon a post from a certain Toronto folkie asking people to name their favourite Canadian roots record producers. Of course, people immediately named Steve Dawson and Colin Linden, two stalwarts of the genre, both epically talented. Various other names - [NL Folk Fest fundraiser raises more than $45,000](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/08/nl-folk-fest-fundraiser-raises-more-than-45000/) - More than 700 friends and fans of the Newfoundland Folk Arts Society raised more than $45,000 on Sunday night to help pay down the society's deficit and work toward a sustainable future for the society and the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival. “We can’t thank people enough for their support," said the society's interim president - [Adrian Sutherland reclaims narratives about life in Attawapiskat in his book The Work of Our Hands](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/06/adrian-sutherland-reclaims-narratives-about-life-in-attawapiskat-in-his-book-the-work-of-our-hands/) - Imagine walking into your kitchen one morning and discovering paw prints from a polar bear on the floor. There’s no sign of how the bear got in or out of the house, and there’s no sign of any damage. Strangely enough, there’s only one front paw print and one rear paw print. Not the usual - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/05/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-50/) - KIEFER SUTHERLAND RELEASES NEW ALBUM, GREY On his newly released fourth album, Grey, actor/musician Kiefer Sutherland continues exploring his love of country, Americana, and folk. Produced by Ethan Johns, Rocco DeLuca, and Mark Neill, resulting in a warm, organic sound that highlights storytelling and emotional depth. Produced by Ethan Johns, Rocco DeLuca, and Mark Neill, - [Can-Am roots rock lifers The Weber Brothers are all grown up on new self-titled album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/05/can-am-roots-rock-lifers-the-weber-brothers-are-all-grown-up-on-new-self-titled-album/) - For their many admirers, the story of the Weber Brothers has become a small piece of rock and roll folklore—as teenagers, Ryan and Sam Weber left their home near Baltimore and headed to Canada, determined to meet and learn from Ronnie Hawkins, then one of the last remaining founding figures of rock and roll. For - [John Gogo and Valdy bring lost Robert Service poem to life on 'The Morning After'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/12/john-gogo-and-valdy-bring-lost-robert-service-poem-to-life-on-the-morning-after/) - Acclaimed Western Canadian balladeer John Gogo is bringing history to life with his latest single “The Morning After”, a rollicking folk tune based on a virtually unknown Robert Service poem. Originally written in 1900, the poem was passed down through generations before landing in John’s hands in 2020. Now, after setting it to music, enlisting - [Mary Gauthier marks the 20th anniversary of Mercy Now at the Rogue Folk Club this month](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/04/mary-gauthier-marks-the-20th-anniversary-of-mercy-now-at-the-rogue-folk-club-this-month/) - Mary Gauthier will perform a special evening of music at the Rogue Folk Club in Vancouver this month celebrating the 20th anniversary of her landmark album Mercy Now. The show will honour the songs and stories from the beloved album while also featuring music spanning Mary's career. Mary is a Grammy-nominated American folk singer-songwriter and - [Danny Marks returns with landmark album Back to the Blues](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/03/danny-marks-returns-with-landmark-album-back-to-the-blues/) - Danny Marks, one of Canada’s most enduring and deeply revered figures in blues and roots music, has released his new album, Back to the Blues. Spanning 13 tracks and drawing on more than five decades of living, listening, and playing, the record is both a homecoming and a declaration: a master musician at the height - [David James Allen gets lost in the stars on latest single "The Moonlight Waltz"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/29/david-james-allen-gets-lost-in-the-stars-on-latest-single-the-moonlight-waltz/) - As anticipation builds toward the release of David James Allen's upcoming album Jubilation Potpourri this fall, he's shared another preview in the form of "The Moonlight Waltz." A stunning example of modern alt-country, the song's hazy vibes perfectly capture the feeling of drinking and dancing with your favourite partner on warm summer nights. David said, - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/29/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-49/) - KATHLEEN EDWARDS AND BOY GOLDEN NOMINATED FOR 2026 AMERICANA HONORS AND AWARDS The Americana Music Association has announced the nominees for its 2026 Honors and Awards, and two Canadian artists are in the running. Kathleen Edwards is nominated in the Album of the Year category for her 2025 release Billionaire, co-produced by Jason Isbell and - [After almost a year of closure, Penticton’s Dream Café eyes a new beginning](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/01/after-almost-a-year-of-closure-pentictons-dream-cafe-eyes-a-new-beginning/) - After closing last year, there is new hope on the horizon for the Dream Cafe. The venue, which was long one of the most important locations for live music in Penticton. B.C., closed its doors for good in September. Now, a community group known as the Dream Society is raising funds to renovate and eventually - [A year after quitting the House of Commons, Charlie Angus is leading The Resistance and releasing new music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/30/a-year-after-quitting-the-house-of-commons-charlie-angus-is-leading-the-resistance-and-releasing-new-music/) - During the early days of the Trump administration, punk rocker-turned-Parliamentarian Charlie Angus turned back to music and protest, leaving his seat in parliament to focus on fronting his band The Grievous Angels and launching a newsletter called The Resistance. Before a recent trip to Edmonton, he spoke to Roots music Canada about what it has - [Cowessess First Nation Artist (Uncle) Trent Agecoutay Releases Moving New Single "The Foundation"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/27/cowessess-first-nation-artist-uncle-trent-agecoutay-releases-moving-new-single-the-foundation/) - Cowessess First Nation singer-songwriter (Uncle) Trent Agecoutay has released his deeply personal new single “The Foundation." Written with his late father, Jim Agecoutay, in the days following the funeral of their Kokum, Agnes, it is the first song Trent ever co-wrote with his dad – making it one of the most intimate and significant recordings - [Check out Ken Whiteley's performance of 'Aberdeen' -- and his upcoming shows](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/28/check-out-ken-whiteleys-performance-of-aberdeen-and-his-upcoming-shows/) - Ken Whiteley just celebrated his 75th birthday with a big bash at Hugh's Room Live in Toronto, and now he's released this video for "Aberdeen." It's a one take performance of the Bukka White blues classic. "I learned this decades ago watching Bukka White up close and later sitting beside him at folk festival blues - [Should Canada retaliate against the U.S. over its treatment of Canadian artists? This Juno-winner says yes!](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/26/should-canada-retaliate-against-the-u-s-over-its-treatment-of-canadian-artists-this-juno-winner-says-yes/) - Canadian Blues musician Jack De Keyzer took to Facebook in February, disgruntled. The cause of his frustration? Visas. Specifically, the difficulties faced by Canadian musicians in obtaining a visa to work in the U.S., and the relative ease for Americans trying to do the same in Canada. The imbalance has “relegated us to the position - [The Joel Affair doesn't see any reason to wait with new EP Lo and Behold](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/22/the-joel-affair-doesnt-see-any-reason-to-wait-with-new-ep-lo-and-behold/) - The Joel Affair is the recording project of Ontario singer/songwriter Joel Phair, blending power pop and Americana with meticulous production to create a sound that follows the trail blazed by modern masters such as Matthew Sweet, Craig Finn and Ted Leo. Debuting in 2021 with the EP Trying To Get By, on June 4 The - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/22/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-48/) - DANIEL LANOIS ANNOUNCES BELLADONNA NOCTURNE LP, ONTARIO SHOWS Daniel Lanois is set to release his latest album entitled Belladonna Nocturne via Warner Records on June 19. Described as a new sonic exploration composed and performed by Lanois, it features 14 tracks and guest appearances from longtime collaborators Emmylou Harris, Brian Blade, Daryl Johnson, and more. - [Rest in peace, Baba Singh](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/22/rest-in-peace-baba-singh/) - We at Roots Music Canada send our deepest condolences to the family and friends of Baba Singh, a beloved host on the CKUA Radio Network, whose passing was announced on May 16. Based in Edmonton, he was a tireless supporter of local musicians and independent Canadian artists in general, through his show Mid-Morning Mojo, and - [Did Don Ross invent math rock? The similarities between Don's early work and a popular new(ish) genre](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/21/did-don-ross-invent-math-rock-the-similarities-between-dons-early-work-and-a-popular-newish-genre/) - Don Ross is a veteran guitarist and musician with a career spanning more than 35 years. And his earlier work reveals an interesting approach to fingerstyle guitar playing that new listeners may find reminiscent of a genre that has been in the spotlight recently. Math rock is a subgenre that emerged from the rock scene - [Album Review: Donovan Woods - Squander Your Gifts](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/19/album-review-donovan-woods-squander-your-gifts/) - Donovan Woods' newest EP, Squander Your Gifts, invites listeners into moments of grief and reflection. The five-song collection, released on Feb. 27, spans 16 minutes but carries an emotional weight that lasts beyond its runtime. The EP is about the loss of Donovans’ friend Abe, who passed away unexpectedly two years ago. In an Instagram - [Updated: Trailblazing Indigenous cellist Cris Derksen has died](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/17/trailblazing-indigenous-cellist-cris-derksen-has-died/) - Like many of you, we here at Roots Music Canada are devastated by the news that trailblazing Indigenous cellist and composer Cris Derksen has died at the age of 45 after a motor vehicle collision Saturday in northern Alberta, reportedly after the funeral of her late father. Cris’ agency, AIM, confirmed the terrible news Sunday - [Hello, Summer Sundays: the Ottawa Tennis Club's 2026 music series launches this weekend](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/16/hello-summer-sundays-the-ottawa-tennis-clubs-2026-music-series-launches-this-weekend/) - Last Monday marked the launch celebration for a new summer tradition for the Ottawa Tennis Club. Starting May 17, the club will host Summer Sundays, a weekly concert initiative led by Paul Sutcliffe. Paul said it’s hard for musicians to make a living these days, and Summer Sundays are his way of giving back. “This - [Remembering pioneering Canadian reggae artist Ernie Smith](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/16/remembering-pioneering-canadian-reggae-artist-ernie-smith/) - Music lovers everywhere lost a good friend with the departure last month of Glenroy Anthony Michael Archangelo Smith. He had been about to celebrate his 81st birthday. He was an internationally famous and widely beloved Jamaican Canadian artist who excelled as both a singer and a songwriter. He spent many years living in Toronto, recording - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/15/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-47/) - THE TRAGICALLY HIP MARK FINAL TOUR ANNIVERSARY WITH LIVE ALBUM It's hard to believe that it's been a decade since The Tragically Hip embarked on their final cross-country tour, a truly landmark event in Canadian cultural history, culminating with a hometown show in Kingston, Ontario that united the nation in a way no other musical - [Lily Frost expresses hope for humanity on latest single 'More Love'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/15/lily-frost-expresses-hope-for-humanity-on-latest-single-more-love/) - On her new single "More Love," Toronto's Lily Frost continues to display her musical versatility with a song that gets to the core of how many of us are feeling about the current state of the world. Over a hypnotic sonic backdrop, Frost shares the simple and direct message encapsulated in the song's title, with - [Women in folk shine bright at the first ever Wilding Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/11/women-in-folk-shine-bright-at-the-first-ever-wilding-festival/) - The hills were alive with the sound of music on May 1 in Chelsea, QC. The music came from the first annual The Wilding, an all-woman music festival spearheaded by Ontario folk singer Jessica Pearson. Set at Le Vignoble de Chelsea, The Wilding offered a full day of music, local vendors and food, centred around - [BistroFest brings free local music to Ottawa this summer and encourages people to discover new acts](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/14/bistrofest-brings-free-local-music-to-ottawa-this-summer-and-encourages-people-to-discover-new-acts/) - A new summer concert series is set to bring local music to one of Ottawa’s busiest outdoor spaces. BistroFest, a free outdoor concert series running on select Saturdays from May 16 to Sept. 5, will feature 24 local bands performing near Hog’s Back Falls. Each evening will include three acts, ranging from folk to punk - [How 21-year-old Ottawa artist Jude Zappala is balancing passion and paychecks](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/27/how-21-year-old-ottawa-artist-jude-zappala-is-balancing-passion-and-paychecks/) - For many young musicians, making a name for themselves no longer just means making music. They're marketing online, booking gigs and building a following. But in a crowded and competitive landscape, standing out and making a living is a challenge, so frequently there are also side hustles involved. So what does that reality look like - [CBMA winner Ollee Owens announces new album with producer Colin Linden, plus tour dates](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/13/cbma-winner-ollee-owens-announces-new-album-with-producer-colin-linden-plus-tour-dates/) - Ollee Owens is having a year. The Calgary-based blues and Americana artist has taken home the inaugural Canadian Blues Music Award for Emerging Blues Artist or Group of the Year – recognizing her album Nowhere to Hide and cementing her place as one of the most vital new voices in Canadian blues. With over 2.5 - [Collingwood's Shjaane Glover Earns Honourable Mention At International Songwriters Day Song Contest With "Effervescence"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/13/collingwoods-shjaane-glover-earns-honourable-mention-at-international-songwriters-day-song-contest-with-effervescence/) - Southern Ontario singer-songwriter Shjaane Glover has earned an Honourable Mention at the 2026 International Songwriters Day Song Contest for his song “Effervescence.” The honour was announced on April 9, International Songwriters Day itself. The contest, which drew entries from Norway, Taiwan, Austria, the UK, New Zealand, Sweden, the US, and across Canada, celebrated the most - [Album Review: Hurts Like Hell - Charlotte Cornfield](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/25/album-review-hurts-like-hell-charlotte-cornfield/) - In a storybook-like progression of life's most intimate moments Charlotte Cornfield's Hurts Like Hell harnesses an emotional clarity that lingers long after the music fades. Charlotte's first release since the birth of her daughter in 2023, it's her most vulnerable album yet, offering a combination of poetic storytelling and subdued music that moves at its - [Music in the mountains: here's the lineup for Whistler's 2026 free summer concert](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/15/music-in-the-mountains-heres-the-lineup-for-whistlers-2026-free-summer-concert/) - Get ready for a summer of free music in the mountains. On July 1, the Whistler Summer Concert series returns, with a line-up of artists from around the world to challenge the stunning views with some stunning tunes. This year the series will bring new faces, familiar favourites and some iconic names to the stage. - [Local musicians and festival lovers are trying to save one of Canadas oldest music festivals](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/06/02/local-musicians-and-festival-lovers-are-trying-to-save-one-of-canadas-oldest-music-festivals/) - One of Canada’s longest-running folk festivals is facing an uncertain future as it approaches its 50th anniversary. Every summer, the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival transforms Bannerman Park in St. John’s, Newfoundland, into a gathering place filled with music, storytelling and community spirit. For decades, the festival has been a staple of the province’s arts - [Ottawa Bluesfest emerging showcase act Carson Cameron is recording a live album tonight at Night Oat](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/12/ottawa-bluesfest-emerging-showcase-act-carson-cameron-is-recording-a-live-album-tonight-at-night-oat/) - Ava From performing outside an ice cream store in Carp to opening for a member of the Backstreet Boys, 18-year-old singer-songwriter Carson Cameron is making a name for himself in small Ottawa venues. Carson said he has always thrived on stage and is excited to build a community around his music as he starts his career. From performing outside an ice cream store in Carp to opening for a member of the Backstreet Boys, 18-year-old singer-songwriter Carson Cameron is making a name for himself in small Ottawa venues. Carson said he has always thrived on stage and is excited to build a community around his music as he starts his career. - [From artist to MP: David Myles marks one year advocating for Canadian artists on Parliament Hill](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/12/from-artist-to-mp-david-myles-marks-one-year-advocating-for-canadian-artists-on-parliament-hill/) - One year after trading the artist's life for the life of a Parliamentarian, multi-Juno Award-winning musician and MP David Myles is advocating for Canadian artists to be treated less like hobbyists and more like the small business owners they are. Entering federal politics, David said he was worried about being confined strictly to conversations around - [5 take-aways from Folk+ for artists navigating today’s music industry](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/18/5-take-aways-from-folk-for-artists-navigating-todays-music-industry/) - For emerging artists, the job no longer ends with writing songs, but extends to marketing, touring and building a local audience. At this year’s Folk+ plus conference, hosted by Folk Alliance International, industry professionals and artists broke down what it takes to sustain a career in today’s music landscape. These workshops are designed to help - [Album Review: Mia Kelly – Stand-up woman](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/29/album-review-mia-kelly-stand-up-woman/) - Mia Kelly, the award-winning singer-songwriter from Gatineau, QC who combines folk and blues styles, recently released four new singles that will be apart of her upcoming album Big Time Rollercoaster Feeling. - [Inside Abigail Lapell's personal journey through motherhood on Shadow Child](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/09/inside-abigail-lapells-personal-journey-through-motherhood-on-shadow-child/) - With Mother’s Day right around the corner, singer-songwriter Abigail Lapell is reflecting on the transformative experience that inspired her newest album, Shadow Child. The nine-track record traces the emotional and physical journey of pregnancy, with each song representing a different month of gestation. But for Abigail, the album is about far more than motherhood alone. - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/08/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-46/) - ASHLEY MACISAAC SUES GOOGLE OVER AI DISINFORMATION Ashley MacIsaac has never denied having a chequered past, but when Google's AI Overview feature falsely described him as a registered sex offender, the Juno Award-winning fiddler from Cape Breton was forced to take action. The Canadian Press has reported that MacIsaac filed a defamation lawsuit against Google - [The Pintos are back in the saddle with new cosmic country single "Studio Rain"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/08/the-pintos-are-back-in-the-saddle-with-new-cosmic-country-single-studio-rain/) - The Pintos—formerly Matt Paxton & The Pintos—are a Hamilton, Ontario alt-country band that has been gaining international recognition over the past several years for heart-wrenching songwriting, augmented by a distinctive musical chemistry. The quartet comprised of singer/songwriter/guitarist Matt Paxton, bassist Carrie Clark, pedal steel guitarist Chris Altmann and drummer Robin Pirson is poised to release - [Album Review: Aysanabee - Timeline EP](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/07/album-review-aysanabee-timeline-ep/) - Aysanabee released his six-track EP, Timelines, on April 10. The four-time Juno Award winner, with only two studio albums, Watin (2023) and Edge of the Earth (2025) is taking a moment to revisit some of his favourite songs, offering a quieter, more intimate sound than their original counterparts. The EP was produced by Aysanabee, a.k.a. - [Toronto Multi-Hyphenate John Lewitt Releases Vibrant New Pop-Rock Anthem "Six Ways to Sunday"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/06/toronto-multi-hyphenate-john-lewitt-releases-vibrant-new-pop-rock-anthem-six-ways-to-sunday/) - Songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist John Lewitt is captures the spirit of optimism with his latest single, “Six Ways to Sunday." The track serves as the cornerstone of his upcoming 11th solo album of the same name, offering a masterclass in craftsmanship that draws inspiration from the timeless melodicism of the Beatles and the rugged heart - [These roots were made for walking: checking out Ottawa's folk walk as part of Jane's Walk 2026](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/05/these-roots-were-made-for-walking-ottawas-folk-walk/) - The Ottawa Folk Walk picked up its feet this weekend after a 12-year standstill. Folk tunes flooded up and down Bank Street on Saturday and Sunday as music lovers sprang from plaque to plaque along the Canadian Folk Music Walk of Fame. Arthur McGregor, who founded the walk of fame, led the folk walk alongside - [Gil's Hootenanny in Ottawa takes its last bow](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/04/gils-hootenanny-in-ottawa-takes-its-last-bow/) - Gil’s Hootenanny said a bittersweet goodbye Friday night after 17 years spreading songs of hope and protest. The event took place every May Day in memory of Gil Levine, the founding director of research at the Canadian Union of Public Employees. “He understood that singing together could stir us to feel like a part of - [Why Tanglefoot decided to make a comeback](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/02/why-tanglefoot-decided-to-make-a-comeback/) - These are turbulent times for Canadians. We are faced with economic threats from our neighbours to the south in the form of tariffs on our products. There are threats to our sovereignty with talk of turning us into a “51st state.” Then there are almost daily insults to our elected officials. But if there’s one - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/01/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-45/) - THE TRAGICALLY HIP, FEIST AMONG 2026 CSHF INDUCTEES The Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame has announced its 2026 inductees, with this year's class headed by The Tragically Hip and Feist. Also being inducted are Loverboy's songwriting team, vocalist Mike Reno and guitarist Paul Dean, as well as one of the country's most successful bilingual artists, - [Liv Wade previews Fur Queen EP with powerful new single "Carolina"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/05/01/liv-wade-previews-fur-queen-ep-with-powerful-new-single-carolina/) - After releasing the internationally acclaimed EP Radios and Buffalos in 2024, multi-talented Indigenous recording artist Liv Wade is set to return with a new five-song collection entitled Fur Queen later this year on Merilainen Music. Overall, it displays Liv’s wide-ranging musical approach, with the latest single “Carolina” being a dramatic ballad that blends traditional storytelling with - [The first ever Wilding Festival will take place this weekend in Chelsea, QC](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/30/the-first-ever-wilding-festival-will-take-place-this-weekend-in-chelsea-qc-2/) - An all-woman music festival is coming to Chelsea, QC, this Saturday, and it's expected to be wild. The Wilding is a music festival that was dreamt up and organized by Jessica Pearson of Jessica Pearson and the East Wind, an all-female Americana-Folk trio from Ontario. The festival is inspired by their new album Wilding, with - [Jon Mullane releases new EP The Road cowritten with Nashville hitmakers](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/30/jon-mullane-releases-new-ep-the-road-cowritten-with-nashville-hitmakers/) - Jon Mullane, a compelling voice in modern rock, pop, and country – has released The Road, a five-song EP in the latter genre produced by Toronto's Creighton Doane. The road that led to The Road ran through Nashville. Jon spent the better part of two years travelling between his home in Mahone Bay, Nova Scotia - [Edmonton's Blue Chair closes its doors](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/28/edmontons-blue-chair-closes-its-doors/) - The Blue Chair, a venue that has cultivated local and international arts in Edmonton, closed ,its doors on April 26. Sylvia Shank has owned the venue since 2020, when she bought it from Harold Wollin. However, her journey at the Café began when it first opened. For her, closing this space wasn’t an easy decision, - [Check out our video from this weekend's Ottawa Grassroots Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/28/check-out-our-video-from-this-weekends-ottawa-grassroots-festival/) - Elina Ellis and Simon McKague checked out the festival this past weekend and talked to Irish Millie. They produced this video: - [7 shows to check out this month for the Rogue Folk Club's 39th birthday](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/27/7-shows-to-check-out-this-month-for-the-rogue-folk-clubs-39th-birthday/) - May is a huge month for the Rogue Folk Club. To begin with, Happy Birthday, guys! The club is 39 years old this year, and yes, we're pretty sure this is, in fact, it's FIRST 39th birthday. Also, the Rogue is holding a fundraiser for the Stephen Lewis foundation at the end of the month - [Community spirit shines at the Ottawa Grassroots Festival's inaugural open mic](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/26/recap-community-spirit-shines-at-ottawa-grassroots-fest-open-mic/) - The festivities of the Ottawa Grassroots Festival continued into Sunday with its first-ever open mic at the First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa. Featuring more than 20 performers, the event showcased a mix of long-timers and emerging artists from Ottawa’s grassroots scene. Before the show started, chatter filled the room as attendees shared their love of - [Meredith Moon and Irish Millie wow the crowd at the Ottawa Grassroots Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/26/meredith-moon-and-irish-millie-wow-the-crowd-at-the-ottawa-grassroots-festival/) - A rabbit’s foot hung from her banjo, tied with a baby-pink string. Many believe the amulet brings luck. But Meredith Moon’s talent sang louder than luck ever could. The Ottawa Grassroots Festival closed its third night with Meredith and her five-piece-band as the headlining performance. Her set included 12 songs ranging from Appalachian soul music - [Alysha Brilla and OK Naledi headline night 2 of the Ottawa Grassroots Festival.](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/25/alysha-brilla-and-ok-naledi-headline-night-2-of-the-ottawa-grassroots-festival/) - Friday Night brought a wave of folk, friends and fun to the First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa. With Ok Naledi and Alysha Brilla kicking off a jam-packed weekend of performances and workshops for all members of the Ottawa community. Upon arrival spectators are greeted by dozens of volunteers and organizers of the event who make - [La nuit franco-ontarienne: Opening night at the Ottawa Grassroots Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/24/la-nuit-franco-ontarienne-opening-night-at-the-ottawa-grassroots-festival/) - Music united folk lovers last night at the 14th annual Ottawa Grassroots Festival. Eventgoers gathered at the First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa, a church in Carlingwood, for some Franco-Ontarian folk tunes. Before the sun set at 7:30 p.m., Céleste Lévis took the stage. This was her first time playing at the festival in about eight - [Daniel Isaiah's Western Medicine is the singer-songwriter remedy we all need](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/24/daniel-isaiahs-western-medicine-is-the-singer-songwriter-remedy-we-all-need/) - After previewing his new album Western Medicine with the brilliant singles "Too Far To Run" and "How The Tiger Got Her Stripes," Montreal-based singer-songwriter Daniel Isaiah has released the full 10-song collection -- a tour de force of roots music song craft, conjuring images of Leonard Cohen fronting The Band, and Randy Newman recording in - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/24/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-44/) - MAMA'S BROKE SHARE NEW SINGLE "HEAVEN" AND CANADIAN TOUR DATES Mama’s Broke — the Nova Scotian duo of Amy Lou Keeler and Lisa Maria — are preparing to follow up their 2022 Juno-nominated sophomore album Narrow Line, and have shared the first preview, "Heaven," along with announcing an extensive North American tour. The Canadian dates - [Don Denaburg releases 'Beyond Blue' with Dala's Sheila Carabine on vocals](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/23/don-denaburg-releases-beyond-blue-with-dalas-sheila-carabine-on-vocals/) - Toronto singer-songwriter Don Denaburg and his celebrated collective of collaborators release "Beyond Blue”— out now—a quietly powerful new single that speaks directly to anyone who has ever felt alone in their struggle. Produced by Don with legendary Canadian composer Jack Lenz as executive producer, the song arrives as one of the most emotionally essential recordings - [Here's what to look forward to at the Ottawa Grassroots Festival starting Thursday](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/22/heres-what-to-look-forward-to-at-the-ottawa-grassroots-festival-starting-thursday/) - For fans of local and provincial talent, the Ottawa Grassroots festival kicks off on Thursday and runs through Sunday afternoon at The First Unitarian Convention of Ottawa, 30 Cleary Avenue. The event will be hosted by Anne Marie Brugger Thursday through Saturday and features six evening performers and 17 more during the day on Saturday. For fans of local talent look no further The Ottawa Grassroots festival kicks off on Thurs. April 23rd and runs until the afternoon of Sun. April 26th, at The First Unitarian Convention of Ottawa (30 Cleary Avenue). - [Album review: Kyp Harness - Lovely](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/21/album-review-kyp-harness-lovely/) - When Kyp Harness sings “You'll never get rid of me,” it might be addressed to the music industry, his listeners, his beloved, or all three. “Rid of Me,” the swaggering rocker that opens his new (and 20th !) album, Lovely, declares from the git-go that he’ll keep on keeping on, no matter what. Whether anybody’s - [Caroline Wiles releases Just be You](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/20/45220/) - Accomplished singer-songwriter Caroline Wiles is releasing her sixth studio album, Just Be You, on April 24 with a release concert on April 28 at Shawn and Ed Brewing Co. in Dundas, ON. Ancaster-based Caroline recorded the album at the famed Grant Street Studio in Hamilton, showcasing her delicate fingerpicking and her Anne Murray-like voice along - [How Don Ross used an AI tool to revisit a timeless collaboration, 'Did I Fool You,' on his new album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/18/how-don-ross-used-an-ai-tool-to-revisit-a-timeless-collaboration-did-i-fool-you-on-his-new-album/) - Acclaimed Canadian guitarist, composer, and songwriter Don Ross has released his new single, “Did I Fool You,” offering a rare glimpse into a creative partnership that stretches back to his teenage years. Written with longtime collaborator Norman Wolfson, the song is the first single from Don’s album Songs That Found Me, out now via Goby - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/17/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-43/) - THE ROLLING STONES RETURN WITH BLUESY SINGLE "ROUGH AND TWISTED" When mysterious posters began popping up around London a few weeks ago announcing the return of a band called The Cockroaches, hard core Rolling Stones fans immediately got the reference to the name the band famously used for its 1977 appearances at Toronto's El Mocambo. - [Cabin Fever laments the decline of small towns on latest single, video 'No Back Page'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/17/cabin-fever-laments-the-decline-of-small-towns-on-latest-single-video-no-back-page/) - Following their first single of 2026, "Good Old Days," Canadian bluegrass / alt-country group Cabin Fever has shared "No Back Page," an emotional counterpoint in its depiction of fading small town life. The song is a showcase for the group’s harmony vocals, with its story inspired by guitarist Kyle Faulkner’s experiences living in northern Saskatchewan - [JR and the Bad Ox Band has released its new Steve Dawson-produced single 'Highway Life'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/15/jr-and-the-bad-ox-band-has-released-its-new-steve-dawson-produced-single-highway-life/) - JR and the Bad OX Band, the heartfelt country project of Canadian singer-songwriter John Rewers, has released “Highway Life,” a sun-drenched, rolling ode to the open road and the love that pulls a man home. Available now on all major streaming platforms, the track is the second single from John's Nashville Sessions — a suite - [3 more amazing shows to catch before the end of the month at the Rogue Folk Club](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/15/3-more-amazing-shows-to-catch-before-the-end-of-the-month-at-the-rogue-folk-club/) - This is the month to be in Vancouver if you're a fan of Celtic-influenced folk music. The Rogue Folk Club is presenting shows by acts with roots in Scottish, Irish and Newfoundland traditional music. And not just any acts either! Hopefully you've got lots of room in your concert budget this month because you might - [Here's a look at ACTRA RACS' campaign for better streaming pay](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/14/heres-a-look-at-actra-racs-campaign-for-better-streaming-pay/) - The recording artists’ collecting society, ACTRA RACS, is pushing for changes to Canada’s Copyright Act through a new campaign aimed at forcing streaming services to pay performers fairly. Their campaign Burst Their Bubble calls for amendments that would create clear rules for how artists are compensated when music is streamed online. They say Canada’s copyright - [Tom Coxworth picks his 5 favourite moments from the Canadian Folk Music Awards](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/13/tom-coxworth-picks-his-5-favourite-moments-from-the-canadian-folk-music-awards/) - The host of Folk Routes on Alberta’s CKUA radio has been positively buzzing about this weekend’s Canadian Folk Music Awards events in Calgary. The four-day event featured showcases by an array of big names in Canadian folk, roots and global music and the handing out of 22 awards in 21 categories. We asked Tom to - [Here are your 2026 Canadian Folk Music Award winners](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/12/here-are-your-2026-canadian-folk-music-award-winners/) - The Canadian Folk Music Awards have just wrapped up in Calgary after four days of showcases and concerts, during which a total of 21 awards were handed out. The weekend featured some terrific concerts that included performances by Aysanabee, Ahi and Boreal as part of the Friday night lineup and Amanda Rheaume, Terra Spencer and - [How 2 Canadian artists have brought more meaning to their music careers through working in prisons](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/11/how-2-canadian-artists-have-brought-more-meaning-to-their-music-careers-through-working-in-prisons/) - Linda McRae set up her equipment in a bare cement room, the kind built for containment, not concerts. Once she was ready, she was escorted to the guard station. Here, she watched as eight men were brought in one by one, chained and handcuffed, and led into individual cages just big enough for a stainless - [James Hill & Anne Janelle (Champagne Weather) perform tomorrow at the Aurora Cultural Centre](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/10/james-hill-anne-janelle-champagne-weather-perform-tomorrow-at-the-aurora-cultural-centre/) - James Hill and Anne Janelle, who perform together as Champagne Weather create a world in which music, storytelling, and visual art collide. And their show, Life in Every Sound, is a genre-defying, multi-sensory concert experience blending Manhattan minimalism, down-east fiddle, and contemporary folk into an immersive journey. It features cinematic projections, dynamic lighting, and a - [The man who dominated the inaugural Canadian Blues Music Awards plays the Rogue Folk Club tonight](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/10/the-man-who-dominated-the-inaugural-canadian-blues-music-awards-plays-the-rogue-folk-club-tonight/) - A three-time winner of the 2026 Canadian Blues Music Awards, Brandon Isaac leaves crowds at his shows with a smile on their face and a need to come back for more. And tonight, Brandon performs at Vancouver's Rogue Folk Club. The Yukon-born songwriter performs a mixture of thoughtful, humorous, spiritual and catchy memorable songs, always - [Hamilton scene vet Carrie Clark refuses to be defined on latest solo EP Resistor](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/10/hamilton-scene-vet-carrie-clark-refuses-to-be-defined-on-latest-solo-ep-resistor/) - Since the late 1990s, Carrie Clark has been a familiar presence within the Hamilton, ON music scene, contributing her bass and vocal talents to myriad albums and live performances by local artists. Most recently, Carrie has become a full-fledged member of alt-country outfit Matt Paxton & The Pintos (now simply The Pintos), whose 2023 EP - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/10/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-42/) - CORB LUND AND HAYES CARLL TEAM UP TO COVER GARTH BROOKS Longtime friends and touring partners Corb Lund and Hayes Carll have collaborated again on a new single, a cover of Garth Brooks' "Much Too Young (To Feel This Damn Old)." The song's rodeo theme appeals directly to Lund's background of competing in rodeo events - [Here's Paul Corby's review of his own band, Memberz Syndicate's, new album Set Dem Free](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/07/heres-paul-corbys-admirably-understated-review-of-his-own-band-memberz-syndicates-new-album/) - Memberz Syndicate was, until just recently, known as The Memberz, an heirloom Toronto reggae dectet, featuring a cast of singers and musicians encompassing all the gender, race and age variables. Making gradual headway in modernizing a genre rooted in styles that were crystalized almost half a century ago, they have managed, through ever-more-focussed single releases - [Spread the word: Small World Music is offering a free incubator for immigrant, newcomer and marginalized artists](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/08/spread-the-word-small-world-music-is-offering-a-free-incubator-for-immigrant-newcomer-and-marginalized-artists/) - Toronto's Small World Music is offering a five-month professional development program for newcomer and immigrant artists and artists from underrepresented communities who are building their careers in the Greater Toronto Area. Acts have until May 3 to apply Those who are selected receive industry-led hands-on professional development sessions, peer collaboration spaces, mentorship and curated showcasing - [Guelph artist Richard Laviolette left a legacy along with his last album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/09/05/guelph-artist-richard-laviolette-left-a-legacy-along-with-his-last-album/) - Guelph musician Richard Laviolette had a career full of love, community, pain, family and inspiration. And his partner and friends say they intend to continue honouring his work as an artist and songwriter. He passed away three years ago today, on Sep 5, 2023. He was 41. A genre-bending artist, Richard was recording his album, - [From first-date jam session to folk stages: Burnstick's story](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/06/from-first-date-jam-session-to-folk-stages-burnsticks-story/) - For Nadia and Jason Burnstick, the married couple behind the duo Burnstick, music has never been something separate from life. Long before Burnstick became a touring act in the Canadian folk community, before the festival stages, recording sessions and house concerts, their story started simply with a first date that turned into a jam session. - [After debuting at 13 and earning praise from Natalie MacMaster, here's where Irish Millie is headed now](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/04/after-debuting-at-13-and-earning-praise-from-natalie-macmaster-heres-where-irish-millie-is-headed-now/) - For someone who got the idea of playing the fiddle after seeing Natalie MacMaster perform, getting praise for her own playing from Natalie was a big confidence boost for Irish Millie. As a child her parents would take Millie to square dances near their home in Peterborough, Ontario where Natalie would play for the dancers. - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/03/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-41/) - TREY ANASTASIO RELEASES LIVE AND ACOUSTIC Phish's Trey Anastasio has released Live And Acoustic today on his Rubber Jungle Records imprint. The Vance Powell-produced 22-track collection documents Anastasio’s 2025 Spring Acoustic Tour with keyboardist Jeff Tanski, his first extended acoustic tour in six years. Setlists were drawn from across Anastasio’s four-decade career featuring a mix - [Photographer John Schwirtlich re-focuses on music with debut solo album Apertures](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/03/photographer-john-schwirtlich-re-focuses-on-music-with-debut-solo-album-apertures/) - John Schwirtlich has been a professional photographer for the past 25 years, based in Kamloops, British Columbia, shooting everything from his twin passions for skiing and live music to working on film sets and architectural projects. Still, John never gave up on his dream to make music, dating back to his youth in Kitchener, ON - ['We are a blues nation': John Mulligan recaps the Canadian Blues Music Awards' debut in Toronto](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/04/01/we-are-a-blues-nation-john-mulligan-recaps-the-canadian-blues-music-awards-debut-in-toronto/) - On March 30 th , 2026, the Canadian Blues Music Awards Gala was held in Toronto at The Phoenix Concert Theatre. If was the first Canadian Blues Music Awards Ceremonies. This award show replaces the Toronto Blues Society’s annual blues awards show. The idea was to make it a truly nation-wide awards show rather than - [Here are your 2026 Canadian Blues Music Award winners](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/30/here-are-your-2026-canadian-blues-music-award-winners/) - The Canadian Blues Music Awards held its inaugural edition last night and Brandon Isaak was the big winner of the evening, earning three awards – for Blues Song, Electric Blues Recording and Blues Guitarist of the Year. Blue Moon Marquee won the Fan Favourite Award, chosen by the public, for Blues Artist or Group of the Year, - [The Lifers' Anita and Liv Cazzola find reconnection and renewal on their third album, Honesty](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/30/the-lifers-anita-and-liv-cazzola-find-reconnection-and-renewal-on-their-third-album-honesty/) - Liv and Anita Cazzola, the sister-duo at the forefront of the Lifers, are still riding the high from the September release of their third album, Honesty. The album, which has been in the works for the past seven years, serves as both a tool for healing from sexual trauma and a catalyst for reconnection between - [Here are your 2026 Juno winners in the folk/roots global and Indigenous categories](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/29/here-are-your-2026-juno-winners-in-the-folk-roots-global-and-indigenous-categories/) - The Junos don't go live on TV until tomorrow night (technically tonight because it's after midnight eastern time as I write this), but all of the most interesting awards get handed out the night before the telecast, and that includes the folk/roots, world and Indigenous categories. There is also now a category for South Asian - [The East Pointers' latest project is an East Coast concept album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/28/the-east-pointers-latest-project-is-an-east-coast-concept-album/) - If you ever visit Prince Edward Island, there are two kinds of seafood you should try, lobster and Colville Bay oysters. Both of those tasty treats from the ocean are referenced in the new East Pointers album, Schoonertown. The new release is a bit of a concept album that follows a lobster fisherman as he - [Caleb Tomlinson formally arrives as a bright new northern light on Solstice EP](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/27/caleb-tomlinson-formally-arrives-as-a-bright-new-northern-light-on-solstice-ep/) - Whether it’s the isolation or the natural environment, there’s something distinct about Yukon singer/songwriters. Caleb Tomlinson, based in Whitehorse, is a prime example. His music shines with an intimacy and simplicity that on the surface seems disconnected from the modern world, although its effect is an immediate connection to a listener’s soul. Caleb’s latest six-song - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/27/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-40/) - WILLIE NELSON'S NEW ALBUM TO INCLUDE BOB DYLAN CO-WRITE Willie Nelson has announced a May 29 release date for his latest album Dream Chaser, a 10-track collection made largely in collaboration with producer and songwriter Buddy Cannon. A press release stated that the album strikes a balance around the common threads of "perseverance, timing, and - [Mississauga artist Joelle Rose follows her musical dream one song at a time](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/26/mississauga-artist-joelle-rose-follows-her-musical-dream-one-song-at-a-time/) - For 23-year-old singer-songwriter Joelle Rose, winning a song of the year contest in the city where she grew up for her heartfelt composition “Birdhouse” was the encouragement she needed to take her music career to the next level. Joelle was born and raised in the Mississauga music scene. She started piano lessons at four years - [Canada's Blues Community Launches New National Awards, Gala Set for The Phoenix Concert Theatre in Toronto March 30](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/25/canadas-blues-community-launches-new-national-awards-gala-set-for-the-phoenix-concert-theatre-in-toronto-march-30/) - The inaugural Canadian Blues Music Awards (CBMA) gala takes place Monday, March 30 at The Phoenix Concert Theatre in Toronto, bringing together the finest performers in Canadian blues for a landmark national celebration. The evening will feature live performances from nominees and honourees spanning the full breadth of the country’s blues landscape — from roots-drenched - [Album review: Dana Sipos - Golden Molten](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/24/album-review-dana-sipos-golden-molten/) - The feather-edged heartbeat of Dana Sipos rises in her voice and arrives on record just in time to edge the springtime in, covering us with a smiling lava flow of stretched melismatic syllables, nudging and breathing long notes into our inner ear, while her words surge liminally towards - and away from – their literal - [Reid Jamieson and CVM share new single 'Blue Jeans' co-written with Johnny Irion](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/23/reid-jamieson-and-cvm-share-new-single-blue-jeans-co-written-with-johnny-irion/) - Vancouver’s Reid Jamieson – a vocal powerhouse whose music has been hailed by the Globe & Mail as “gorgeously sun-struck acoustic soul” – releases his new single “Blue Jeans” today via Reid Jamieson Music. Self-produced and written by Reid Jamieson and his longtime songwriting partner and wife, Carolyn Victoria Mill, "Blue Jeans" represents a rare - [Tanglefoot is back!](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/21/tanglefoot-is-back/) - There were collective cries of anguish in the Canadian folk universe when, in 2009, the members of Tanglefoot announced that they were disbanding. This much loved band had thrilled a couple of generations of fans, touring extensively in the U.K., USA and Canada since its inception in 1980. Earlier this year, fans were delighted to - [Sammy Volkov's artistry reaches new heights on Songs From The Goodbye Garden](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/20/sammy-volkovs-artistry-reaches-new-heights-on-songs-from-the-goodbye-garden/) - There is no other way to state it; Canadian singer-songwriter Sammy Volkov is an artist unlike any other. In one respect, he is a throwback to a time when pop music was made by skilled craftspeople that knew how to conjure magic through the right combination of musicians, melody and lyrics. In another respect, the - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/20/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-39/) - WHITEHORSE SETS MAY 8 RELEASE FOR ALL I WANT IS ALL OF IT On their new album, All I Want Is All of It, out May 8 via Six Shooter Records, Luke Doucet and Melissa McClelland (aka Whitehorse) find their way home, proverbially, sonically, and emotionally. The collection returns to the duo’s early folk rock - [Canadian folk legend Ken Whiteley releases his 37th album, Keep Going](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/19/canadian-folk-legend-ken-whiteley-releases-his-37th-album-keep-going/) - Canadian folk legend Ken Whiteley has just released his 37th album, Keep Going, via Pyramid Records, distributed worldwide by Distrokid. A multi-instrumentalist, producer, and composer who has been at the heart of Canadian roots music for more than six decades, Ken is a Mariposa Festival Hall of Fame inductee, a Genie Award winner for Best - [Should artists play on Got Talent? Here's what two had to say about their time on reality TV](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/17/should-artists-play-on-got-talent-heres-what-two-had-to-say-about-their-time-on-reality-tv/) - Kellie Loder was scrolling through social media during the pandemic when they saw a post from an artist friend asking if she should apply to Canada’s Got Talent. Kellie’s own music career was on pause along with the rest of the entertainment industry, and they had gone back to school to become a carpenter. “I - [Jason Wilson and Ashara play the Aurora Cultural Centre on March 28](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/17/jason-wilson-and-ashara-play-the-aurora-cultural-centre-on-march-28/) - Music fans in Aurora are in for an unforgettable night of boundary-pushing global fusion when Scottish-Canadian artist Jason Wilson—a Juno-nominated musician, bestselling author, and reggae historian—brings his genre-defying blend of jazz, folk, and reggae to the stage alongside his dynamic ensemble, Ashara. Jason has performed over 2,500 performances worldwide and collaborated with UB40 and Alanis - [Track review: Sarah MacDougall - Blanket Skies](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/18/track-review-sarah-macdougall-blanket-skies/) - Swedish-Canadian folk-pop-rocker Sarah MacDougall breathes life into the airy-fairy flutter of love. Something of a timeless coming-of-age type of song, Blanket Skies marries tight snare hits with her ever-so-gentle voice to ease into this piece, putting emphasis on her lyricism before exploding into fully crafted instrumentation with production growing like branches around the listener. https://youtu.be/VGLpQRoh6LU?si=CzUb4ng5q_eaWxVe - [2026 Juno nominees PIQSIQ release new single 'Mahaha: Tickling Demon'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/16/2026-juno-nominees-piqsiq-release-new-single-mahaha-tickling-demon/) - The acclaimed Inuit throat singing duo PIQSIQ (pronounced “Pilk-Silk”) invites listeners into a vivid corner of Inuit mythology with their latest single, “Mahaha: Tickling Demon”. Accompanied by a groundbreaking motion-capture music video, the track serves as a centerpiece of their newest studio album, Legends. Sisters Tiffany Ayalik and Inuksuk Mackay continue to push the boundaries - [Canadian Blues Music Awards to debut in Toronto: 'This will be a first, and the first only happens once'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/14/canadian-blues-music-awards-to-debut-in-toronto-this-will-be-a-first-and-the-first-only-happens-once/) - If you like to be where history is being made, you won’t want to miss the Canadian Blues Music Awards, which make their debut at the Phoenix Concert Theatre in Toronto on March 30, at 7 p.m. It may seem like a normal blues event, but it marks the beginning of a new era for - [Bobby Dove previews Fortune Teller LP with heartbreaking ballad "Leaving Manitoba"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/13/bobby-dove-previews-fortune-teller-lp-with-heartbreaking-ballad-leaving-manitoba/) - As Canadian alt-country artist Bobby Dove gears up for the release of their third LP Fortune Teller on April 24, another preview is available in the form of "Leaving Manitoba," a tender confessional ballad guaranteed to have listeners reaching for their hankies. Bobby said, "‘Leaving Manitoba’ is a bittersweet song about ending a relationship that - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/13/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-38/) - ELTON JOHN NAMED 2026 GLENN GOULD PRIZE LAUREATE Sir Elton John is joining fellow musical luminaries Leonard Cohen, Oscar Peterson and Yo Yo Ma in being named a Glenn Gould Prize Laureate. Established in 1987 in tribute to the renowned Canadian pianist, the Glenn Gould Prize is awarded bienially in recognition of a living individual - [3 shows at the Rogue Folk Club in March that capture the breadth of the folk scene](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/12/3-shows-at-the-rogue-folk-club-in-march-that-capture-the-breadth-of-the-folk-scene/) - Not only is it an all-star line-up at the Rogue Folk Club this month, it's also a very diverse line-up. Where else can you see one of the hottest Canadian singer-songwriters on the circuit right now; one of the hottest global jazz fusion artists and one of the artists at the forefront of Canada's Indigenous - [Carla Muller releases two complete albums in one day: In Between and Paper Stars](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/11/carla-muller-releases-two-complete-albums-in-one-day-in-between-and-paper-stars/) - In an era of strategically spaced singles and algorithm-driven release schedules, Carla Muller has done something audacious: she's released two complete albums on the same day. In Between and Paper Stars, both out now via Canterbury Music Company, represent a creative floodgate opened—a songwriter unwilling to wait any longer to share the stories she's been - [The Swingin' Blackjacks release 'Misery Train' from new album, Never Tire, Never Stop](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/26/gary-kendalls-swingin-blackjacks-release-misery-train-from-new-album-never-tire-never-stop/) - After more than two decades of rockin' it right across Ontario, The Swingin' Blackjacks roar back with "Misery Train," a runaway rockabilly bopper that captures everything the veteran trio does best. The single serves as the electrifying lead track from their forthcoming full-length album 'Never Tire, Never Stop', out now. Featuring the powerhouse lineup of - [It's been six years since COVID hit; here's how the live folk/roots scene is doing](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/10/its-been-six-years-since-covid-hit-heres-how-the-live-folk-roots-scene-is-doing/) - It’s no secret that the live music industry was hit especially hard by COVID-19. Five years after the start of the pandemic, the road back to any kind of normal is a complicated one for members of the Canadian folk and roots scene. In some cases, the industry appears to be thriving with independent venues - [How returning to music has changed Jory Nash's perspective on the music biz](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/07/how-returning-to-music-has-changed-jory-nashs-perspective-on-the-music-biz/) - Sometimes there are moments in your life when you think things can’t get any worse than they are. Life’s been hard and then along comes something else to test you. That’s sort of how it had been for singer-songwriter Jory Nash. He had left a performing life behind for a variety of reasons, one being - [Graham Brown Band shares new video for "Tell The World" from Outside Within LP](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/06/graham-brown-band-shares-new-video-for-tell-the-world-from-outside-within-lp/) - It's coming up on a year since Vancouver's Graham Brown Band released the album Outside Within, the latest addition to their impressive catalogue and another showcase for Graham's incendiary guitar playing. However, the band's more mellow side is revealed in the new single "Tell The World," and Roots Music Canada is proud to exclusively premiere - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/06/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-37/) - RINGO STARR ANNOUNCES NEW GUEST-PACKED COUNTRY ALBUM Ringo Starr has teamed up once again with producer T Bone Burnett for a new 10-song country album entitled Long Long Road, out April 24 via UMe. It follows the pair's 2025 collaboration, Look Up. Long Long Road features a host of guests, including Billy Strings, Sheryl Crow, - [Erin Benjamin leaves Canadian Live Music Assn. for new role at the Ottawa Board of Trade](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/06/erin-benjamin-leaves-canadian-live-music-assn-for-new-role-at-the-ottawa-board-of-trade/) - The outgoing CEO of the Canadian Live Music Association is taking on a new role as executive vice president advocacy and strategy at the Ottawa Board of Trade. “I am honoured to join the Ottawa Board of Trade at such a pivotal moment,” said Erin Benjamin, who was also the first executive director of Folk - [Shjaane Glover breaks seven-year ailence with enigmatic new single 'Effervescence'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/05/shjaane-glover-breaks-seven-year-ailence-with-enigmatic-new-single-effervescence/) - After a hiatus from the spotlight dating back to 2018, Southern Ontario singer-songwriter Shjaane Glover makes a captivating return to the music scene with his new single, “Effervescence.” Out now, the track serves as the lead invitation into his upcoming six-song EP, Conjure This. Now based by the bay in Collingwood, ON, Shjaane’s latest work - [Trolls keep mistaking Graham Lindsey for U.S. Republican Senator Lindsey Graham](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/03/trolls-keep-mistaking-graham-lindsey-for-u-s-republican-senator-lindsey-graham/) - One comment on an old birthday post called him a filthy pig. Another said he was supporting the destruction of the United States of America. The messages were clearly meant for U.S. Senator Lindsey Graham. But their recipient was Graham Lindsey, Ottawa Celtic musician and folk artists. “I’m folky. I believe in helping other people,” - [Preview: Kunlé’s double-single release coming Friday](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/04/preview-kunles-double-single-release-coming-friday/) - Award-winning Toronto singer-songwriter Kunlé will release a new double single, “Ilé L’àbo” and "Cabana" on Friday, offering the first glimpse of his upcoming album, Kunlé - The Journey, set for release this year. The two tracks, he said, point at what he hopes will become “a diasporic anthem for anyone looking for a sense of - [Album review: N'didi O - Simple Songs for Complicated Times](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/02/album-review-ndidi-o-simple-songs-for-complicated-times/) - Ndidi O is performing at Hugh's Room in Toronto Wednesday. Ndidi Onukwulu, professionally known as Ndidi O, is an award-winning contemporary roots and blues singer-songwriter, a two-time Juno Nominee and the winner of the Western Canada Music Awards (WMCA) Blues Artist of the Year award in 2019. She has to date released five albums and - [A new book, a new EP, and a new musical theatre production? Time to catch up with Alan Doyle](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/28/a-new-book-a-new-ep-and-a-new-musical-theatre-production-time-to-catch-up-with-alan-doyle/) - When Alan Doyle looks back to his childhood growing up in Petty Harbour, his life at age 10 in 1979 wasn’t much different from his dad’s life in 1959. “So I kind of had my father’s childhood," he said. That is until the cod moratorium in the early 1990s. The federal ban on commercial fishing - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/27/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-36/) - CHARLEY CROCKETT DENIED ENTRY INTO CANADA OVER PAST POT BUST In last week's Roots Round Up we shared the news that Charley Crockett will release his new album Age Of The Ram on April 3, as his fans in Canada were gearing up to see him on a nine-city tour that was slated to kick - [You say you want a revolution? Grievous Angels have got it for you with new LP](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/27/you-say-you-want-a-revolution-grievous-angels-have-got-it-for-you-with-new-lp/) - Has there ever been a more urgent time for a band whose rationale is based on social justice to release an album entitled Revolution? Canada’s Grievous Angels have been reading the tea leaves for several years, and with their new 10-song collection they state plainly that it is time for all people to rise up - [Roots-rockers The Dunlop brothers release 'Lost in the Feeling'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/26/roots-rockers-the-dunlop-brothers-release-lost-in-the-feeling/) - Hamilton-based roots-rock band The Dunlop Brothers release their new single "Lost in the Feeling," a warm, reflective track drawn from their latest album ‘The Dunlop Brothers, Vol. 2.’ The song captures the brothers’ gift for melodic songwriting and emotional nuance, further defining a sound shaped by rock, folk, Americana, and Canadiana traditions. Comprised of siblings - [Here is Mariposa Folk Festival's full 2026 lineup](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/25/here-is-mariposa-folk-festivals-full-2026-lineup/) - Mariposa Folk Festival is returning this July 3 to 5 with the theme Sounds Like Home and a lineup filled both with artists at the top of their game and fresh voices. The three-day family-friendly festival is bringing back artists like Steve Earle, Billy Bragg, Taj Mahal & the Phantom Blues Band, Great Lake Swimmers, - [Album review: Blue Moon Marquee - Get You Feathers Ready](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/24/album-review-blue-moon-marquee-get-you-feathers-ready/) - On Get Your Feathers Ready, the blues and jazz vibes of Blue Moon Marquee merge with the powwow beats and vocals of Northern Cree for a unique listening experience. It begins with the title track, a prelude to what's to come. Then it's into "Put Your Feathers On," which begins with A.W. Cardinal’s powerful guitar - [Album Review: Genevieve Racette - Golden (Deluxe)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/23/album-review-genevieve-racette-golden-deluxe/) - Genevieve Racette released her newest album Golden (Deluxe) on Jan. 30, inviting listeners back into alternative versions of her 2024 album Golden. The deluxe version of Golden was a way for her to revise, add, and play with tracks from such a pivotal part in her career — an album that transported her to venues - [B.C. alt-country artist Maddisun begins a new chapter with latest single 'The Pages'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/20/b-c-alt-country-artist-maddisun-begins-a-new-chapter-with-latest-single-the-pages/) - With the release of her fourth album, The Pages, in the summer of 2025, British Columbian singer/songwriter Maddisun has made great strides within the alt-country world. Blending small-town grounding with big-star ambition, along with her warm, magnetic presence and powerhouse vocals, Maddisun has been captivating audiences both at home in Canada and abroad with performances - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/20/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-35/) - STURGILL SIMPSON ANNOUNCES NEW JOHNNY BLUE SKIES ALBUM After surprising many in 2024 by releasing the album Passage du Desir under the new monicker Johnny Blue Skies, Sturgill Simpson is returning March 13 with a new album, Mutiny After Midnight, credited to Johnny Blue Skies & The Dark Clouds. The nine-track collection was recorded in - [The Aurora Winter Blues Festival is back!](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/19/the-aurora-winter-blues-festival-is-back/) - The Aurora Winter Blues Festival has found its rhythm again. After a five-year pandemic-era pause, the beloved mid-winter tradition will return Feb. 26 through Mar. 1, promising four nights of a mid-winter escape into the world of blues and roots. Guitars will wail and stages will glow with performances from award-winning artists like Glenn Marais, - [Four February concerts and the kick off of the Driven Bow Fiddle Festival at Rogue Folk Club](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/18/four-february-concerts-and-the-kick-off-of-the-driven-bow-fiddle-festival-at-rogue-folk-club/) - From songs that honour Ukraine’s children, to boundary-pushing Eurofolk and high-energy Irish fiddlers launching the beloved fiddle fest, February at the Rogue Folk Club has been full of compelling concerts. Here’s a look at the four shows. For the full concert list and more information, visit: http://www.roguefolk.bc.ca Beyond the Pale - February 1 at Mel - [Mike Elliott is keeping the blues alive and vibrant on his latest album Let You Go](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/13/mike-elliott-is-keeping-the-blues-alive-and-vibrant-on-his-latest-album-let-you-go/) - I've got something for blues fans this week on Jason's Jukebox. Since moving back to my hometown, Kitchener, ON a few years ago, it's been great to reconnect with some old friends, including blues scene stalwart Mike Elliott. Although he largely adheres to the early electric sounds established in Chicago and Memphis, his all-original body - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/13/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-34/) - GORD DOWNIE & THE SADIES POSTHUMOUS LIVE ALBUM COMING SOON For many Canadian music fans, the brief collaboration between Gord Downie and The Sadies seemed almost too good to be true. Thankfully, it was captured on the 2014 album Gord Downie, The Sadies, And The Conquering Sun before Downie's passing in 2017, and Sadies co-founder - [Review: 'Oh My Stars' – Matt Gower](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/25/review-oh-my-stars-matt-gower/) - Hard folk singer-songwriter Matt Gower takes flight with this emotional queer track, turning ornithology, the study of birds, into a tender meditation on freedom and free-range love. Centering on the behaviour of the white-throated sparrow, the track unfolds like a folk fable. Matt opens quite subversively, almost immediately taking common phrases and translating them for - [Ian Tamblyn's stories from the road: Captain Uzulin, the Maltinosky and the Kirkwall Harbour Incident](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/19/captain-uzulin-the-maltinosky-and-the-kirkwall-harbour-incident-a-story-from-the-road/) - Several years after joining Adventure Canada, the mad cap leader of the organization, Matthew Swan found himself in need of an expedition leader for a trip around Scotland. In his desperation, he asked me to fill the role. I had been a guide, host, zodiac driver and musician on several trips around Scotland with Adventure - [How neighbourhood jams during COVID turned into AV and the Inner City](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/21/how-neighbourhood-jams-during-covid-turned-into-av-and-the-inner-city/) - At the peak of the pandemic, music filled the streets of Edmonton’s McCauley neighbourhood. With the help of an amplifier and a keyboard, Ann Vriend gathered a small crowd of friends and neighbors to share a hopeful experience. Today, Ann’s efforts have grown into a successful soul group, with a few singles, an EP that - [Musicians and industry people say Ottawa has a shortage of mid-size venues; can the problem be fixed?](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/17/musicians-and-industry-people-say-ottawa-has-a-shortage-of-mid-size-venues-can-the-problem-be-fixed/) - Jon Evenchick began the hunt for a medium-to-large size venue in Ottawa in 2013. By the time he had graduated from the small business management program at Algonquin College a year later, he still hadn’t found the right space for what he was looking for; a 500 to 2,000-person capacity concert hall. “There was nothing - [Here's the advice that Grammy-winner Seal shared with Newfoundland newcomer Becca Bartlett](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/03/09/heres-the-advice-that-grammy-winner-seal-shared-with-newfoundland-newcomer-becca-bartlett/) - Newfoundland singer-songwriter Becca Bartlett couldn't have imagined just a few weeks before it happened that she would be selected for a three-day mentorship opportunity in New Jersey, with Grammy-winning artist Seal, never mind watch him play acoustic versions of his biggest hits on her guitar. Becca described the retreat as a “whirlwind,” from getting picked - [Meet the newest generation of folk musicians and organizers](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/10/meet-the-new-generation-of-folk-musicians-and-organizers/) - Meet the new generation of folk musicians: resilient, creative, authentic, and trying their best. Young folk musicians approach their craft in many different ways. Some are carving entire new paths in the industry while others are upholding traditions rooted in the music they were raised on. All of them are trying to navigate an ever-changing - [How two out of three Janzen Boys made the band their full-time job](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/14/how-two-out-of-three-janzen-boys-made-the-band-their-full-time-job/) - Winnipeg family folk band the Janzen Boys make a living with their do-it-yourself approach to booking venues, selling tickets and marketing their music online. - [Album Review: The Deep Dark Woods - The Circle Remains](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/16/album-review-the-deep-dark-woods-the-circle-remains/) - The Deep Dark Woods released their seventh album, The Circle Remains, on Oct. 3, delivering fans of the gothic folk band nine melancholic melodies to sink their teeth into. Lead singer and songwriter of the band Ryan Boldt has a lifelong goal of making music that “makes you feel an aching pain in your chest,” - [Here's the full schedule and new pricing for Toronto's Winterfolk XXIV](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/09/heres-the-full-schedule-and-new-pricing-for-torontos-winterfolk-xxiv/) - Now celebrating its 24th year, Winterfolk XXIV returns February 13 to 15, 2026 at the Tranzac Club, bringing together folk, roots, blues, and world music in an intimate, listening-room setting. A long-running Toronto festival and registered not-for-profit, Winterfolk champions established artists, elevates emerging voices, and builds community through carefully curated live performances and artist-led workshops. - [Indigenous singer-songwriter Desiree Dorion displays confidence in upcoming album.](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/12/indigenous-singer-songwriter-desiree-dorion-displays-confidence-in-upcoming-album/) - Indigenous singer-songwriter Desiree Dorion's eighth album will debut in 2026 to ensure Indigenous women doubting a music career have a sense of confidence. - [Donita Large launches The Ancestors tonight at Edmonton's Backstage Theatre (Fringe Art Barn)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/08/donita-large-launches-the-ancestors-tonight-at-edmontons-backstage-theatre-fringe-art-barn/) - Renowned singer-songwriter Donita Large is set to redefine the contemporary musical landscape with the release of her highly anticipated full-length album, The Ancestors. A lifelong performer who has graced prestigious stages like Carnegie Hall, Donita’s solo journey has been nothing short of meteoric. As a Cree artist, her artistry is rooted in tradition and the - [Addi John's new single, 'Busan,' explores connection across continents](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/11/addi-johns-new-single-busan-explores-connection-across-continents/) - Building on the momentum of a breakout debut year, London, ON-born, Windsor, ON-based artist and producer Addi John officially ushers in 2026 with the release of his latest single, "Busan." Available now, the track serves as a soaring exploration of the threads that bind us across oceans and time zones. Following the success of his - [Carla Muller navigates the in between with new single 'Hold the Door'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/11/carla-muller-navigates-the-in-between-with-new-single-hold-the-door/) - Music history is littered with stories of "what if" and "someday," but every so often, an artist decides to stop waiting for the stars to align and starts carving out their own constellation. In an era of hyper-compressed digital singles, Carla Muller is doing something refreshingly traditional: she’s telling stories that actually need the time - [Former Ronnie Hawkins' Hawks bassist KC Armstrong grabs attention with 'Mountain Man'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/18/former-ronnie-hawkins-hawks-bassist-kc-armstrong-grabs-attention-with-mountain-man/) - Brantford-based singer, songwriter, and producer KC Armstrong is celebrating a monumental global surge as his latest single, "Mountain Man," captures attention on international airwaves. Originally a hidden gem from his acclaimed 2024 album Finally Crafted, the track has exploded in popularity, entering the UK’s ITISNOW Radio charts and skyrocketing to #1 in just three weeks - [David James Allen will get you through tough times with new single 'By Your Side'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/06/david-james-allen-will-get-you-through-tough-times-with-new-single-by-your-side/) - On his latest single, “By Your Side,” Prince Edward County, Ontario-based singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist David James Allen provides a soothing balm for anyone experiencing tough times. Built upon an easy-flowing groove and featuring the soaring pedal steel work of Andrew Ivens, Allen sings with honest conviction that any of life’s trials can be overcome through - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/06/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-33/) - HERE ARE THE 2026 GRAMMY WINNERS IN ROOTS MUSIC CATEGORIES The glitz and glamour was on full display as usual for the annual Grammy Awards televised ceremony on Feb. 1 at the Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, where artists such as Bad Bunny, Kendrick Lamar, Billie Eilish and Lady Gaga took home hardware. However, there - [Remembering Paul Norton, a tireless contributor to Vancouver's folk/roots scene](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/02/remembering-paul-norton-a-tireless-contributor-to-vancouvers-folk-roots-scene/) - Like many people over the past 10 days, I was shocked to learn of the sudden passing of Paul Norton, long-time host of roots radio shows at CFRO in Vancouver, publicist for the Rogue Folk Club, and a long-time colleague of mine at Festival Distribution, among many other things. Paul died suddenly of a heart - [SOCAN's decision to license AI-assisted music draws mix reviews](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/31/socans-decision-to-license-ai-assisted-music-draws-mix-reviews/) - SOCAN's decision to license music that is partially AI-generated is getting mixed reviews from artists and industry. Some say it's a matter of adapting to the reality that AI is now part of the production process, while others say the decision was rushed, and there needs to be more guard rails. “They say that they - [Why Dave Gunning made his new record on a porch in Australia with mics in the trees](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/07/why-dave-gunning-made-his-new-record-on-a-porch-in-australia-with-mics-in-the-trees/) - In the 2024 Bob Dylan biographical film, A Complete Unknown, there are a couple of scenes where people are arguing about what is or isn’t folk music. Is it just traditional songs? Does it stop being “folk” if you use an electric instrument? There used to be those who thought "folk music" was played by - [Album review: Alex Beraldo - Moving On](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/05/album-review-alex-beraldo-moving-on/) - Moving On is a record by Canadian Alex Beraldo. He is known for leading the blues-rock outfit The Breaks in Toronto. Moving On is his sixth independent release. Nothing here sounds like it comes from the leader of a blues-rock band. This is a relaxed and friendly affair. Most of the songs are about hanging - [D'orjay gets candid about music, medicine and marginalization](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/04/dorjay-gets-candid-about-music-medicine-and-marginalization/) - Edmonton-based singer-songwriter D’orjay has been making waves since stepping onto the country music scene at 35 and turning it on its head. With their disarmingly honest lyricism and genre-defying bluesy country rock anthems, D’orjay is reminding us all that country music is Black. And she'll be doing it again at the Calgary Folk Festival's Block - [Five must-see artists at the Calgary Folk Music Festival's 2026 Block Heater](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/02/03/five-must-see-artists-at-the-calgary-folk-music-festivals-2026-block-heater/) - The Calgary Folk Music Festival celebrates the winter by hosting Block Heater this Thursday through Saturday. The celebration will take place at the confluence of the Bow and Elbow rivers, lighting up the riverside with music, community and fire-pits. For the 11th year in a row, the Block Heater offers a respite from the cold - [Canadian bluegrass/Americana group Cabin Fever returns with new single "Good Old Days"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/30/canadian-bluegrass-americana-group-cabin-fever-returns-with-new-single-good-old-days/) - After making a strong impression on the international roots music scene with their 2025 debut EP It’s Only Forever, Canadian Americana/bluegrass band Cabin Fever is getting set to follow it up with another batch of original tunes. First out of the gate in 2026 is “Good Old Days,” a song with a barroom feel that’s - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/30/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-32/) - BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN RELEASES "STREETS OF MINNEAPOLIS" In a move that firmly displays the advantages of modern technology, Bruce Springsteen has shared a new song, "Streets Of Minneapolis," in response to the chaos in the Twin Cities over the past two months. Posting the song on his social media platforms on Jan. 28, Springsteen said: I - [Here are your 2026 ECMA nominees in the folk/roots, world and adjacent categories](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/29/here-are-your-2026-ecma-nominees-in-the-folk-roots-world-and-adjacent-categories/) - The East Coast Music Awards have announced the nominees for this year's awards. The prizes will be handed out at a gala Thursday, May 21, at Centre 200 in Sydney, Cape Breton. It's part of East Coast Music Week, which runs from the 20 to the 24. It should be noted that the Album of the Year - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/23/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-31/) - DONOVAN WOODS ANNOUNCES NEW EP AND NORTH AMERICAN TOUR Sarnia, Ontario's own Donovan Woods is gearing up to hit the road this Spring in support of a new five-song EP entitled Squander Your Gifts. It's the troubadour's first new music since the 2024 album Things Were Never Good If They're Not Good Now, and you - [Marichka's Daughters of Donbas is devoted to stolen Ukrainian children](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/28/marichkas-daughters-of-donbas-is-devoted-to-stolen-ukrainian-children/) - On her latest project, Daughter of Donbas — Songs of Stolen Children, frontline medic, folklorist, journalist, mother and singer Marichka confronts one of the least visible crimes of Russia’s war against Ukraine: the mass abduction of Ukrainian children from occupied territories. Ukrainian officials estimate roughly 20,000 children have been stolen and brought to Russia, while - [Here are your 2026 Juno nominees in the roots, global and Indigenous categories](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/27/here-are-your-2026-juno-nominees-in-the-roots-global-and-indigenous-categories/) - The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences (CARAS) has just announced the nominees for the 2026 Juno Awards. And congratulations are in order to Rose Cousins for cracking a category indie singer-songwriters don't often get nominated in: Adult Contemporary Album of the Year. On the other hand, there are some surprise omissions in some - [Why you need to listen to Matthew Lien's 'I'm Gonna Pray' with headphones](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/27/why-you-need-to-listen-to-matthew-liens-im-gonna-pray-with-headphones/) - Yukon musician and producer Matthew Lien has released Full Circle, his 25th album and most ambitious project to date. Curated from 40 years of songwriting, the album features Lien’s signature blend of acoustic styles from folk to pop wrapped in lush environmental soundscapes. The hallmark of this release is a breakthrough immersive format Lien developed - [The Sling Sisters Announce debut album with single 'Chasing Whiskey with a Kiss'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/26/the-sling-sisters-announce-debut-album-with-single-chasing-whiskey-with-a-kiss/) - There is a rare kind of magic that happens when three voices find their perfect fit. The Sling Sisters, the powerhouse blues-Americana-country trio from Cambridge and Toronto are thrilled to announce the release of their debut album, What I Hope to Find, arriving Saturday. The project is a soulful collection of songs defined by grit, - [6 Canadian protest songs from the past six years](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/26/6-canadian-protest-songs-from-the-past-six-years/) - Whether it's Danes demonstrating against U.S. threats to take Greenland or Minnesotans parading against the occupation of ICE, protests are back in the spotlight again, and protest music is having a moment. Numerous videos from Minnesota show protesters singing Heidi Wilson's "Hold On" during marches, and modern-day Woody Guthrie Jesse Welles has been on the - [How music helps Berk Jodoin heal after addiction](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/24/how-music-helps-berk-jodoin-heal-after-addiction/) - There’s a lot of truth to the expression, “music is medicine.” Research has shown listening to music can reduce blood pressure, anxiety and pain while also improving the quality of sleep, your mood, mental awareness and memory. Playing music does all of that plus is thought to be a “total brain workout,” strengthening the immune - [Odd Marshall teams up with Blind Melon guitarists on forthcoming album Seconds](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/23/odd-marshall-teams-up-with-blind-melon-guitarists-on-forthcoming-album-seconds/) - After establishing himself as a powerful new voice within the roots/Americana scene with his 2024 debut album Sand & Glue, Odd Marshall is set to follow it up on March 6 with Seconds, a new eight-song collection made with Blind Melon guitarists Christopher Thorn and Rogers Stevens. When seeking a producer for Seconds, Odd Marshall - [Here are your nominees for the 2026 Canadian Blues Music Awards](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/22/here-are-your-nominees-for-the-2026-canadian-blues-music-awards/) - The first annual Canadian Blues Music Awards has just announced its nominees. The ceremony, which takes place March 30 at the Phoenix Concert Theatre in Toronto, replaces the former Maple Blues Awards, which underwent a reckoning three years ago, when it's practice of determining winners by public vote produced an all-white winners list, with the - [You've heard of slow food; how 'bout slow touring? Here's Moonfruits' experience](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/22/youve-heard-of-slow-food-how-bout-slow-touring-heres-moonfruits-experience/) - The project, inspired by movements like “slow tourism”, aims to change the way touring artists engage with local communities and the environment. - [Concert review: Sean Pinchin x 2 (the Busholme in Erin, ON & Iggy's in Fonthill)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/21/concert-review-sean-pinchin-x-2-the-busholme-in-erin-on-iggys-in-fonthill/) - Sean Pinchin played at the Busholme in Erin, ON on Jan. 10. The Busholme is a good restaurant in an antique house, which was built in 1886. The current establishment was founded in 2016. They have a music room and bar attached to the house. It’s a great place to enjoy live music. We made - [Dr. Ben unleashes blues-rock fury with 'Cure Your Blues'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/20/dr-ben-unleashes-blues-rock-fury-with-cure-your-blues/) - Dr. Ben, the folk-blues recording artist whose music channels three decades of experience as a traveling physician across rural Canada, has released his explosive new single, "Cure Your Blues," across all major streaming platforms. The track marks a bold evolution in the artist's sound, combining intricate fingerpicking guitar work with soulful blues licks and brutally - [Canadian Folk Music Award Nominee Irish Millie explores growing up in 'Wasted'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/20/canadian-folk-music-award-nominee-irish-millie-explores-growing-up-in-wasted/) - Following a string of accolades, 19-year-old fiddler, singer, and multi-instrumentalist Irish Millie continues her remarkable ascent in the Canadian roots scene with the release of her latest single, "Wasted. This landmark track serves as a centerpiece of her acclaimed EP Between Then and Now, a project that captures the space between two chapters of life - [The Burning Hell have teamed up with U.S. artist Carsie Blanton and they're on fire!](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/19/the-burning-hell-have-teamed-up-with-u-s-artist-carsie-blanton-and-theyre-on-fire/) - Every now and again, the time I waste scrolling video shorts on the internet actually produces a useful nugget -- and I mean a really useful one, not just cool stuff like Jonny Thompson's mini philosophy lessons and the guy who builds the obstacle courses for squirrels. I've started to stumble on the odd really - [Quebec trad veterans Prairie Comeau perform La Bonne Chanson on new album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/17/quebec-trad-veterans-prairie-comeau-perform-la-bonne-chanson-on-new-album/) - When people talk about “The Great American Songbook,” they’re referring to songs like "Stardust," "Don’t Get Around Much Anymore,” "Georgia" and hundreds of other songs written between the 1920s and the 1960s. These “standards” were the creation of songwriters like George and Ira Gershwin, Cole Porter, Duke Ellington, Irving Berlin, Johnny Mercer and more. While - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/16/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-30/) - CHARLOTTE CORNFIELD ANNOUNCES NEW ALBUM HURTS LIKE HELL Toronto singer/songwriter Charlotte Cornfield will release her sixth album, Hurts Like Hell, on March 27 via Next Door Records in Canada, and Merge Records worldwide. The new 10-song collection is the first that Cornfield has recorded since the birth of her daughter in 2023, and a press - [Mark Branscombe embraces roots music diversity on new solo album Field Recordings](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/16/mark-branscombe-embraces-roots-music-diversity-on-new-solo-album-field-recordings/) - The original concept of field recordings dates back to the early 20th century with the work of folklorists John and Alan Lomax, and its time may have come again in this age when the authenticity of nearly everything is questioned. Vancouver singer/songwriter and roots music scene veteran Mark Branscombe has adopted that concept for his - [What 2 Canadian folk/roots venues are doing to survive - and thrive! - as audiences age](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/14/what-2-canadian-folk-roots-venues-are-doing-to-survive-and-thrive-as-audiences-age/) - Amid a wave of live music venue closures across Canada, Calgary’s Rocky Mountain Folk Club appeared to be nearing the end of its 50-year run. At the beginning of last year, the grassroots folk venue was ready to close its doors, and its board of directors was ready to retire. Enter Nancy Laberge and Pip - [Bandcamp bans music created 'substantially' by AI](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/15/bandcamp-bans-music-created-substantially-by-ai/) - Online music store Bandcamp has announced a ban on music on its site created "wholly or in substantial part" by AI. It announced the new policy on its Reddit account on Tuesday. However, it does not yet appear to have been incorporated into the company's terms and conditions. "The fact that Bandcamp is home to - [Album review: William Prince – Further From the Country](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/13/album-review-william-prince-further-from-the-country/) - Further From the Country, two-time JUNO winner William Prince's fifth LP, is his most musically bold and lyrically personal work yet. - [Here's why you should plan to attend the sophomore Mondo Banjo Festival this year](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/12/heres-why-you-should-plan-to-attend-the-sophomore-mondo-banjo-festival-this-year/) - Last year I had the privilege of attending the inaugural Mondo Banjo Festival located at Hotel Wolfe Island. The festival was a fantastic time for anyone with an interest in the banjo. Workshops were held, including a history of the banjo with Teilhard Frost and Jason Mercer, and morning Tai Chi with and musical accompaniment - [Album review: Jean-François Bélanger - Nouvelle Vieille Musique](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/10/album-review-jean-francois-belanger-nouvelle-vieille-musique/) - Wow! This is something really cool. It’s a whole album of new music composed in traditional Québecois styles by multi-instrumentalist Jean-François Bélanger. The especially amazing thing though, is that on every piece, J-F has invited guest artists - the best in the business in the world of Québec folklore. Here’s the list of the invited - [Elliot C Way's latest single "Margaret" pays tribute to family bonds](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/09/elliot-c-ways-latest-single-margaret-pays-tribute-to-family-bonds/) - Following the gritty, groove-heavy release of his previous 2025 single “Fool’s Gold,” Elliot C Way offers a contrast with his latest single “Margaret,” a slow-burning, soul-stirring ballad that trades the fire of outlaw country for the gentle ache of timeless storytelling. Originally written during Elliot’s time as a member of The Wild North, “Margaret” now - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/09/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-29/) - BIRDBELLY ANNOUNCES ALBERTA AND B.C. SHOWS BirdBelly, aka Alberta-based singer/songwriter Cynthia Hamar, will be hitting the road this month on her first tour in support of the debut BirdBelly album The Wind The Wood. The Alberta/B.C. trek kicks off January 22 in Edmonton, and concludes February 7 in Medicine Hat. For Hamar, transitioning to the - [The 2025 Penguin Eggs Roots Music Canada Critics New Discovery of the Year is: Honeybear, the Band](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/the-2025-penguin-eggs-roots-music-canada-critics-new-discovery-of-the-year-is-honeybear-the-band/) - Honeybear, the Band is the 2025 Penguin Eggs Roots Music Canada Critics’ New Discovery of the Year. The Vancouver quartet comprised of Ian Beaty on bass and vocals, Colin Brumelle on guitar, Tim Watson on drums and longtime Vancouver Canucks organist Mike Kenney on keyboards started out the way a lot of new bands have recently: - [The 2025 overall Critics' Top 10](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/penguin-eggs-roots-music-canada-critics-poll-the-2025-overall-critics-top-10/) - 1. Stephen Fearing - The Empathist 2. Cassie and Maggie MacDonald - Gold and Coal 3. Lennie Gallant - Shelter from the Storms 4. (Tie) Angelique Francis - Not Defeated Maria Dunn - Hardscrabble Hope 5. (Tie) Aysanabee - Edge of the Earth Ahi - The Light Behind the Sun 6. (Tie) Connie Kaldor - - [The 2025 Penguin Eggs Roots Music Canada Critics’ Album of the Year is: Stephen Fearing - The Empathist](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/the-2025-penguin-eggs-roots-music-canada-critics-album-of-the-year-is-stephen-fearing-the-empathist/) - Few artists on the Canadian folk-roots scene can claim the longevity and consistency of the winner of the 2025 Penguin Eggs Roots Music Canada Critics’ Poll. Stephen Fearing has earned the honour for his phenomenal 14th solo album, The Empathist. It comes 39 years after the release of his debut cassette, giving Stephen the longest - [Past top 10s and new discoveries of the year](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/past-top-10s-and-new-discoveries-of-the-year/) - 2024: (Tie) Julian Taylor, Pathways (Howling Turtle) and Terra Spencer, Sunset (Independent) 2023: Wiiliam Prince, Stand in the Joy (Six Shooter) 2022: James Keelaghan, Second Hand (Borealis) 2021: Allison Russell, Outside Child (Fantasy Records) 2020: Pharis & Jason Romero, Bet on Love (Lula) 2019: The Small Glories, Assiniboine & The Red (Red House) 2018: Pharis - [Friends, fans raise more than $180K for Coco Love Alcorn as she battles cancer](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/05/friends-fans-raise-more-than-180k-for-coco-love-alcorn-as-she-battles-cancer/) - The Canadian folk-roots community was hit with some astonishingly terrible news over the holidays: beloved vocalist and songwriter Coco Love Alcorn had been diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer. She hasn't made the precise diagnosis public, but she had surgery on Dec. 9, which failed to remove the entire tumor, and she began chemotherapy - [Roddy Campbell returns to the roots as artistic director of Kelowna Folk Roots Music Society](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/08/roddy-campbell-returns-to-the-roots-as-artistic-director-of-kelowna-folk-roots-music-society/) - Former Penguin Eggs magazine publisher Roddy Campbell retired during the pandemic with plans to slow down, but it's probably no surprise that he ended up right back in the grasp of folk music, as the new artistic director of the Kelowna Folk Roots Music Society. Over its 30 years, the Kelowna Folk Roots Music Society - [Kele Fleming leaves Spotify after CEO invests in AI weaponry](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/07/kele-fleming-leaves-spotify-after-ceo-invests-in-ai-weaponry/) - Kele Fleming adds to the artists that have parted from Spotify, after its CEO, Daniel Ek, invests approximately $700 million in AI-powered military software. - [West End Cultural Centre asks for financial help; fans respond in droves](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/06/west-end-cultural-centre-asks-for-financial-help-fans-respond-in-droves/) - The West End Cultural Centre asked for help raising $50,000 by the end of December, but exceeded expectations with community generosity putting them at $70,000. - [Vic Bell](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/vic-bell-2/) - Vic Bell: Board president and former A.D. of Calgary’s The Nick. Top 10: *Ahi - The Light Behind the Sun *Boreal - Winterbirds Kyle McKearney - To the River *Lennie Gallant - Shelter from The Storms Noah Derksen - Stolen Serenades Quote The Raven - Map the Dark *Stephen Fearing - The Empathist Suzie Ungerleider - [Paul Norton](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/paul-norton-3/) - Paul Norton: host of What the Folk on CFRO, Vancouver Cooperative Radio, for over four decades. Top 10: *Angelique Francis – Not Defeated *Arrogant Worms – Canadian Famous Blue Moon Marquee – Put Your Feathers On Cassie & Maggie – Gold & Coal Connie Kaldor – Wide Open Spaces Eliza Gilkyson – Dark Ages *JP - [Will Chernoff](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/will-chernoff-3/) - Will Chernoff: Founder, Rhythm Changes, rhythmchanges.ca. Top 10: Big Thief - Double Infinity *Brìghde Chaimbeul - Sunwise Charlie Ballantine - East by Midwest *Empanadas Ilegales - Sancocho Trifásico Jenn Butterworth - Her By Design *L'Oumigmag - Ce qui tourne dans l'air *Matt Carmichael - dancing with embers Matt Ulery - Mother Harp Pony Gold - - [Cal Koat](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/cal-koat-2/) - Cal Koat: host of World Beat Canada Radio on CFRO Top 10: Al-Qasar - Uncovered Ammar 808 - Club Tounsi *Arc de Soliel - Lumin Rain Danzon El Gato - El Sonido Bastardo *Didji Doo - Mediterraneo Tropical Eljuri - Asi es el Mundo Kuunatic - Wheels of Omon *Nusantara Beat - Nusantara Beat *Warsaw - [Fiona Black](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/fiona-black-2/) - Fiona Black: Director of programming, BlueShore at Capilano University and artistic director, Vancouver Folk Music Festival. Top 10: Aysanabee - Edge Of The Earth Brad Mehldau - Ride Into The Sun Brighde Chaimbeul - Sunwise *John Smith - Gatherings Marc Ribot - Map of a Blue City *Noura Mint Seymali - Yenbett SG Goodman - - [Joe Hartfeil](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/joe-hartfeil/) - Joe Hartfeil: Host, Wax & Wane, CKUA Radio. Top 10: Blue Moon Marquee & Northern Cree - Get Your Feathers Ready Bonnie "Prince" Billy - The Purple Bird *Carson McHone - Pentimento Charley Crockett - Lonesome Drifter The Deep Dark Woods - The Circle Remains Joan Shelley - Real Warmth *Julianna Riolino - Echo in - [Tom Coxworth](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/tom-coxworth-3/) - Tom Coxworth: host/producer Folk Routes on CKUA. Top 10: Aysanabee - Edge of the Earth *Cassie and Maggie - Cold and Coal Connie Kaldor - Wide Open Spaces Hudost - The Monkey in the Crown *Joan Shelley - Real Warmth Leanne Lightfoot - Still Knowing *Lennie Gallant - Shelter from the Storms *Maria Dunn - - [Steve Edge](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/steve-edge-2/) - Steve Edge: host of The Edge on Folk on CiTR. *Cassie & Maggie - Gold & Coal The Eisenhauerse - Back Burner Guitari Baro - Guitari Baro J. P. Cormier - 50 Years of Guitar Jocelyn Pettit & Ellen Gira - Here to Stay *Le Vent Du Nord - Voisinages *Stephen Fearing - The Empathist - [Patricia Fraser](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/patricia-fraser-2/) - Patricia Fraser: host of Celt in a Twist Radio on CJVB/CHKG. Top 10: *Brogeal - Tuesday Paper Club Cassie and Maggie - Gold and Coal *Dropkick Murphys - Who'll Stand with Us *Flook - Sanju *Frigg - Dreamscapes *Gnoss - Stretching Skyward Grumpy O Sheep - In Sheep We Trust Langan Band - Plight O' - [Heather Kitching](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/heather-kitching-3/) - Heather Kitching: Managing editor, Roots Music Canada. Top 10: Ahi - The Light Behind the Sun *Alex Cuba - Indole *Angelique Francis - Not Defeated *Aysanabee - Edge of the Earth Basia Bulat - Basia’s Palace Evan Redsky - The Language of Fishermen HuDost - The Monkey in the Crown Rachel Kane - Holler at - [Paul Corby](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/paul-corby-3/) - Paul Corby: Host of Corby's Orbit on Radio Regent. Top 10: *Angelique Francis - Not Defeated Barbara Lynch - where did you go Clela Errington - Walkin' Each Other Home Evan Redsky - The Language of Fishermen Georgia Harmer - Eye of the Storm *Julianna Riolino - Echo in the Dust Memberz Syndicate - Set - [Irish Millie](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/irish-millie/) - Irish Millie: Canadian fiddler, singer, and multi-instrumentalist. Top 10 *AHI – The Light Behind The Sun Addison Rae – Addison Cassie and Maggie – Gold and Coal Mac Miller – Balloonerism* Sabrina Carpenter – Man’s Best Friend* SIENNA SPIRO – Die On This Hill EP* Sombr – I Barely Know Her Tate McRae – SO - [Jan Vanderhorst](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/jan-vanderhorst-3/) - Jan Vanderhorst: Host of Just Us Folk at justusfolk.com. Top 10: *Cassie and Maggie MacDonald - Gold and Coal Connie Kaldor - Wide Open Spaces *Jory Nash - The Light Still Shines on the Main *Lennie Gallant - Shelter from the Storms Le Vent du Nord - Voisinages Mary Chapin Carpenter - Personal History *Matthew - [Dinny Knowles](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/dinny-knowles-3/) - Dinny Knowles: Host of What the Folk on CFRO 100.5 FM Vancouver Cooperative Radio. Top 10: Aysanabee - Edge of the Earth Basia Bulat - Basia's Palace Blue Moon Marquee - Get Your Feathers Ready Boy Golden - Finding Eden Madison Violet - The Best of Brenley and Lisa *Rumbaristas - Sin Tu Calore *Rising - [Lisa Wilton](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/lisa-wilton/) - Lisa Wilton: Host and producer of Traffic Jams on CKUA. Top 10: Altameda – Crazy Blue *Carter Felker – Loser Charley Crockett – Lonesome Drifter CMAT – Euro-Country *Curtis Harding – Departures & Arrivals: Adventures of Captain Curt FONTINE – Good Buddy *Jesse Welles – Middle *Mariel Buckley – Strange Trip Ahead *Terra Lightfoot – - [Ken Hunt](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/ken-hunt-3/) - Ken Hunt: Music historian, writer and broadcaster, approved biographer of Prince Heathen and the Age of Martin Carthy (in preparation), and English-language Lektor (writer-translator) of Germany’s Rudolstadt Festival (1994 to date). Top 10: *Martin Carthy – Transform Me Then into a Fish Bonnie Dobson and The Hanging Stars – Dreams *Dick Gaughan – Untroubled: Live - [Jason Schneider](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/jason-schneider-3/) - Jason Schneider: author/publicist, Jason Schneider Media. Top 10: Benjamin Booker - Lower Charley Crockett - Lonesome Drifter Jason Isbell - Foxes in the Snow Margo Price - Hard-Headed Woman Mavis Staples - Sad and Beautiful World Midlake - A Bridge to Far [yes, it's "To" not "Too"] Patterson Hood - Exploding Trees & Airplane Screams - [Jim Marino](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/jim-marino-2/) - Jim Marino: Host of the Freewheeling Folk Show on 93.3 CFMU, Hamilton ON. Top 10: Maria Dunn - Hardscrabble Hope Stephen Fearing - The Empathist Lennie Gallant - Shelter from the Storms Connie Kaldor - Wide Open Spaces Jory Nash - The Light Still Shines on the Main The Pairs - Together on a Rock - [Mike Regenstreif](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/mike-regenstreif-3/) - Mike Regenstreif: curator and host of Stranger Songs (weekly) and Saturday Morning (every fourth week) on CKCU in Ottawa. Top 10: *Anne Hills – Every Town: More Songs by Michael Smith *David Amram Quintet – David Amram Honors Guthrie and Ochs: Old Souls *Eliza Gilkyson – Dark Ages John Gorka - Unentitled John McCutcheon – - [Eric Alper](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2026/01/02/eric-alper/) - Eric Alper: Canadian music publicist, industry expert, and media personality Top 10: Kathleen Edwards - Billionaire Wet Leg - Moisturizer The Besnard Lakes - The Besnard Lakes are the Ghost Nation Rosalía - LUX Florence + the Machine - Everybody Scream Rocket - R Is for Rocket Jason Isbell - Foxes in the Snow Sam - [The Top 10 stories of 2025](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/31/the-top-10-stories-of-2025/) - It's an annual tradition here at Roots Music Canada: counting down the top 10 stories of the year. And sometimes, there's a story in that process itself -- specifically in what it tells us about what we were thinking or what was important to us in a year. If the diverse stories in this year's - [2 amazing shows make for a 'Celtic weekend' January at the Rogue Folk Club](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/30/2-amazing-shows-make-for-a-celtic-weekend-january-at-the-rogue-folk-club/) - Fans of Celtic-influenced music will be beside themselves with joy at the Rogue Folk Club's January line-up. In fact, they should just block off the Jan. 10 and 11 weekend and plan to spend it on nothing but music. East Coast musician and singer-songwriter kicks off the weekend with a show at St. James. The - [Steve Poltz announces extensive Canadian tour for spring 2026 in support of JoyRide](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/29/steve-poltz-announces-extensive-canadian-tour-for-spring-2026-in-support-of-joyride/) - Acclaimed singer-songwriter Steve Poltz announces his return to his Canadian roots with an extensive 17-date spring tour across Eastern Canada, kicking off April 15. The Halifax-born artist continues his momentum following sold-out theatre runs and massive responses at major festivals across Australia and the US, bringing his "good old-fashioned sing-along" show to intimate venues throughout - [Heather's 2025 holiday love letter to the Roots Music Canada community](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/24/heathers-2025-holiday-love-letter-to-the-roots-music-canada-community/) - Christmas greetings from the west coast. I hope this message is finding you rested, relaxed, surrounded by family or friends or whatever combination of those things suits your personal needs. This is my eighth Christmas with Roots Music Canada, and I never find myself short of things to be grateful for at this time of - [Ottawa is getting a new music venue with a new piano - with a bonus for Carleton music students](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/23/carleton-music-program-gives-grand-piano-to-ottawas-robo-lounge-in-long-term-loan-set-to-open-early-january/) - “The eagle has landed,” read an email that Dr. James McGowan received in his inbox last month. The eagle, a $60,000 Bösendorfer concert grand piano, had landed on the ground floor of the Clemow apartment building in Ottawa - a plan that had been in the works since February. Roughly nine months before the piano - [Stories from the road: Ian Tamblyn visits the commune that awaits a UFO](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/22/stories-from-the-road-ian-tamblyn-visits-the-commune-that-awaits-a-ufo/) - There are some who claim that the Tweed area is the Bermuda Triangle of Ontario. There seems to be a disproportionate number of UFO sightings in this part of Ontario – paranormal events occurring. I am not sure but I can certainly attest to the possibility. There have been many times when I have - [18-year-old fiddler Irish Millie announces winter tour dates](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/20/18-year-old-fiddler-irish-millie-announces-winter-tour-dates/) - Irish Millie, the 18-year-old Canadian fiddler, singer, multi-instrumentalist, and composer who is taking the roots scene by storm, has released "You Were There," the standout single from her acclaimed EP Between Then and Now. The track has earned the young artist her seventh Canadian Folk Music Award nomination, this time for Single of the Year. - [Natalie MacMaster releases a book in time for the holiday season](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/20/natalie-macmaster-releases-a-book-in-time-for-the-holiday-season/) - At this time of year, when giving presents to the music lover in your family, there can be a wide variety of choices. Instruments, accessories, instruction books or lessons are all available. Books about musicians are another possibility. May I suggest I Have a Love Story by fiddler Natalie MacMaster? While not an autobiography or - [Just who is Van Django, the band behind the annual Cool Yule concert?](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/20/just-who-is-van-django-the-band-behind-the-annual-cool-yule-concert/) - Nearly three decades after it began, Van Django is still finding new ways to swing. Van Django officially came together in 1998 with violinist Cameron Wilson and guitarist Budge Schachte. The group has been together through lineup changes for nearly three decades. That longevity comes down to familiarity and trust, Cameron said. He compared it - [Singer-songwriter Addi John breaks emotional ground with 'These Walls'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/19/singer-ssongwriter-addi-john-breaks-emotional-ground-with-these-walls/) - With a voice that feels both familiar and fresh, London, ON-born, Windsor, ON-based singer-songwriter Addi John steps confidently into a new chapter with his single “These Walls,” out now. The track glows with indie folk warmth and a heartfelt honesty that has quickly become Addi’s trademark—a sound built for open skies, long drives, and quiet - [How the Young Novelists fifth album helped pull Laura Spink out of some dark canyons](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/19/how-the-young-novelists-fifth-album-helped-pull-laura-spink-out-of-some-dark-canyons/) - Throughout their 20 years of marriage, Laura Spink and Graydon James have spent more than three-quarters of their wedded years touring and performing first as a band, and then as a duo, under the moniker The Young Novelists. The duo met in university through a community theatre and began a journey neither of them anticipated - [Alberta's CKUA to receive $10.9 million from federal government](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/19/albertas-ckua-to-receive-10-9-million-from-federal-government/) - Alberta's public radio network has announced it is scheduled to receive $10.9 million over two years through the federal PrairiesCan funding program, a federal department that promotes economic growth across the Canadian Prairies. CKUA is powerful promoter of folk, roots and global music in Alberta and is home to beloved programs such as Tom Coxworth's - [Album Review: Miss Emily - The Medicine](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/17/album-review-miss-emily-the-medicine/) - Juno-nominated performer Miss Emily released her fifth studio album titled The Medicine, produced by Grammy award winning producer, Colin Linden, on November 7. - [2026 Folk Canada conference accepting showcase applications now](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/17/2026-folk-canada-conference-accepting-showcase-applications-now/) - The Folk Canada Conference (formerly the Folk Music Ontario Conference) is calling on musicians to apply for the 2026 conference. Applications are currently open for both Canadian and international artists. Applications will remain open on the Folk Canada website until January 30 at midnight ET. “We encourage applications from diverse peoples, genres, and languages,” said - [Review: Le Vent du Nord - Voisinages](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/16/review-le-vent-du-nord-voisinages/) - Last month, on a very cold Friday night, we were treated to a very warm evening of hot new music from Québec’s lighthouse Trad band, Le Vent Du Nord. The band was presenting its hot-off-the-press new CD, Voisinages. The title loosely translates as neighbourhoods, and indeed, neighbours do play a huge part in the song - [Check out Lily Frost's new single, 'Nightbird (Lilith)'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/16/check-out-lily-frosts-new-single-nightbird-lilith/) - Toronto songwriter, performer, producer and radio host Lily Frost has released a new single “Nightbird (Lilith)” (Indie release - KMG Distribution) with a new video out on YouTube. “Nightbird (Lilith)” rides on an acoustic guitar riff and hand drum and is produced to bring elements of Celtic mystique through harp, accordion, percussion, and Lily's stark, - [Ian Tamblyn's stories from the road: The Kangaroos of McDonald's Corners](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/15/ian-tamblyns-stories-from-the-road-the-kangaroos-of-mcdonalds-corners/) - For a number of years in the 1980’s I had the pleasure of being the front man researcher for Wayne Rostad’s television series Regional Report, which later morphed into “On the Road.” In late February, I would get a call from CBC producers Sheila Petzold or Sue Stranks to research stories for Wayne’s show. “We’re - [5 artists bringing Ottawa's Christmas market back to its roots](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/13/the-artists-bringing-ottawas-christmas-market-back-to-its-roots/) - Ottawa's annual Christmas market in Lansdowne sets the stage for well-established and up-and-coming roots musicians to perform originals and holiday classics. - [Edmonton's The Give 'Em Hell Boys rekindle the alt-country insurgency spirit on new album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/12/edmontons-the-give-em-hell-boys-rekindle-the-alt-country-insurgency-spirit-on-new-album/) - On their sophomore album, More Noise In An Already Noisy World, Edmonton, AB’s The Give ‘Em Hell Boys return after an uncommonly extended period to unleash more of their high-energy, electrified roots music. Fronted by primary songwriter Quinn Clark, the core of The Give ‘Em Hell Boys also includes Charles Biddiscombe on lead guitar, Lindsay - [Allison Lupton makes her Aurora Cultural Ctr. debut with a Celtic Christmas concert](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/12/allison-lupton-makes-her-aurora-cultural-ctr-debut-with-a-celtic-christmas-concert/) - Allison Lupton Band will light up the Aurora Cultural Centre Saturday with her Celtic Christmas concert featuring seasonal fiddle-led ballads, traditional Canadian tunes, and Ottawa Valley step dancing. Fresh off her fourth ever UK tour, Allison is making her debut at the new theatre. The concert includes a mix of Allison’s originals, traditional holiday favorites - [5 of the best Canadian books about music released in 2025](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/12/5-of-the-best-canadian-books-about-music-released-in-2025/) - Each year we're treated to a diverse new crop of music biographies, histories and memoirs, and 2025 was no exception. We here at Roots Music Canada would naturally prefer to spotlight the work of Canadian authors, and here are five books that any music fan in this country will enjoy. Happy reading, and I would - [Sunfest founder Alfredo Caxaj receives his Order of Canada today](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/11/sunfest-founder-alfredo-caxaj-receives-his-order-of-canada-today/) - When Alfredo Caxaj came to Canada in 1985 as a Guatemalan refugee, he did not like his new city, London ON. Now, 40 years later, London is not only still the home of Alfredo, his family and his music festival, Sunfest, but also the future home of his Order of Canada insignia. Alfredo was selected - [Elizabeth Royall advocates for mental health in upcoming EP and performance](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/11/elizabeth-royall-advocates-for-mental-health-in-upcoming-ep-and-performance/) - Elizabeth Royall will tease her audience this Friday at Ottawa's Art House with songs from her upcoming EP, deeply rooted in spreading mental health awareness. - [Bif Naked, Tegan & Sarah alum Ezra Ben-Shalom addresses global conflict on debut](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/11/bif-naked-tegan-sarah-alum-ezra-ben-shalom-addresses-global-conflict-on-debut/) - Ezra Ben-Shalom’s Known and Unknown has emerged as a profound candidate for year-end "Best Of" lists - [Here's why Jeffery Straker finally released a Christmas album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/10/heres-why-jeffery-straker-finally-released-a-christmas-album/) - If there’s one thing Jeffery Straker has learned from years of performing Christmas concerts across Saskatchewan, it’s that people will want to buy your Christmas CD to take home. The only problem was he didn’t have one. Sure, he’s released a couple of EPs that were available on streaming services but there wasn’t a physical - [Honeybear, The Band releases 'Unbroken' and Announces Winter Tour](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/09/honeybear-the-band-releases-unbroken-and-announces-winter-tour/) - Honeybear, the Band, the Vancouver-based vintage soul, blues, and roots quartet releases their new single, "Unbroken," which serves as a quiet anthem to resilience, blending soul, blues, and pop sensibilities into a message that has resonated far beyond its original intention. "Originally the tune was written as a quiet anthem to resilience, targeted at a - [The Folk Music Ontario conference is now the Folk Canada conference](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/08/the-folk-music-ontario-conference-is-now-the-folk-canada-conference/) - In a move that will come as a surprise to no one, members of Folk Canada have voted to rename the Folk Music Ontario conference the Folk Canada conference. This, of course, follows the merger of former Folk Music Ontario with Folk Music Canada to form Folk Canada. "We want every member of our Canadian - [Hommage à Richard Forest, décédé subitement en novembre 2025](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/08/hommage-a-richard-forest-decede-subitement-en-novembre-2025/) - Traduction de l'anglais par Dana Whittle et Claude Méthé Une immense secousse a ébranlé la force vive qu'est la musique traditionnelle québécoise. Le violoneux et compositeur Richard Forest est décédé subitement. Il semble que son cœur généreux ait rendu l'âme, au très jeune âge de 68 ans. Son départ laisse un vide immense. Né à - [Review: the 38th Women's Blues Review Nov. 28 at Roy Thompson Hall - John Mulligan's take](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/06/review-the-38th-womens-blues-review-nov-28-at-roy-thompson-hall-john-mulligans-take/) - Roy Thompson Hall in Toronto is not a place you would usually equate with a soulful blues gig. It’s well-lit, the seats are comfortable, and the stage is spacious. They don’t serve chicken wings and most members of the audience wear something nice. The architecture of the hall is also different from the architecture of - [The Women’s 38th Annual Blues Revue Presented by the Toronto Blues Society Nov. 28 at Roy Thomson Hall](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/04/the-womens-38th-annual-blues-revue-presented-by-the-toronto-blues-society-nov-28-at-roy-thomson-hall/) - Every year in Toronto, the blues in all its forms comes together to get cooked up fresh by a team of expertly skilled women. Every year, it seems impossible to extend the boundaries of excellence beyond the high bar that was set at the previous year’s event. Then the blues magic occurs. Once again. So - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/05/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-28/) - CORB LUND'S FEATURE FILM DEBUT GUITAR LESSONS IS NOW STREAMING Back in 2022, filmmaker Aaron James Sorensen recruited fellow Albertan and beloved singer/songwriter Corb Lund to star in Guitar Lessons, a warm-hearted tale about a 15-year-old Metis boy played by Kaden Noskiye who inherits a guitar from a father he never knew and sets out - [Bobby Dove sings the 'Trans Canadian Blues' on their latest hard-driving single](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/05/bobby-dove-sings-the-trans-canadian-blues-on-their-latest-hard-driving-single/) - Since the release of the 2021 album Hopeless Romantic, Canadian alt-country artist Bobby Dove has made a lot of fans around the world. Bobby is finally poised to follow up Hopeless Romantic, with the latest preview of the as-yet-untitled new album coming in the form of “Trans Canadian Blues,” an ode to touring the country’s - [Indigenous artist Cheryl L’Hirondelle collaborates with incarcerated individuals on new album/videos](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/03/indigenous-artist-cheryl-lhirondelle-collaborates-with-incarcerated-individuals-on-new-album-videos/) - Edmonton, AB-based Indigenous singer, songwriter, and interdisciplinary artist Cheryl L’Hirondelle announces the release of her powerful new project, Why the Caged Bird Sings, out now via Miyoh Music. The collection is a deeply human, participatory collaboration that brings together the voices of incarcerated women, men, and detained youth from across the land now known as - [Folk Guitarist John Dawson Brings New Light to a Christmas Classic With "O Little Town of Bethlehem"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/02/folk-guitarist-john-dawson-brings-new-light-to-a-christmas-classic-with-o-little-town-of-bethlehem/) - Every holiday season brings a sense of reflection, and for Canadian guitarist John Dawson, that reflection takes shape in music. "It always amazes me how the veil between past and present seems pulled back during the holidays," he said. "Traditions meet change, and in that mix, we find meaning.” John, a longtime figure in Canada’s - [Where are you on Vic Bell's 'Rising Performance Arc'?](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/12/01/where-are-you-on-vic-bells-rising-performance-arc/) - Every musician has a career arc. The trajectory of that arc, in many cases, depends on personal choices made along the way. Playing to the Wall You’ll do this for the rest of your life. It’s where you learn, write and practice. Lots of people stop right there. Jamming with Friends With luck you’ll hang - [How travel shaped the sound of Meredith Moon's latest album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/29/how-travel-shaped-the-sound-of-meredith-moons-latest-album/) - To call Meredith Moon a “travelling troubadour” is an understatement. She’s spent years criss-crossing Canada, learning various banjo styles and traditional songs. She also met countless people who have been the inspiration for her original songs. She began writing songs at a young age and then seriously applied herself in her late teens. Using the - ['Gothic folk' artist Mike Tod connects with the spirit world on new single 'Lyke Wake Dirge'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/28/gothic-folk-artist-mike-tod-connects-with-the-spirit-world-on-new-single-lyke-wake-dirge/) - Bob Dylan said in 1966, "Obviously, death is not very universally accepted. I mean, you'd think that the traditional music people could gather from their songs that mystery is a fact, a traditional fact." These words perfectly encapsulate Mike Tod’s musical approach, one unafraid to venture into the darkest places, or as he himself describes, - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/28/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-27/) - PIQSIQ SHARES "JINGLE BELLS" AS ANNUAL CHRISTMAS SINGLE Each Christmas season since 2020, internationally acclaimed Inuit throat singing duo PIQSIQ has adapted a traditional carol to their unique style, and this year Inuksuk Mackay and Tiffany Ayalik have chosen perhaps the most familiar of them all, "Jingle Bells." Not surprisingly, this is a version of - [Ryan McMahon unveils 'There She Is' produced by Steve Dawson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/26/ryan-mcmahon-unveils-there-she-is-produced-by-steve-dawson/) - Canadian singer-songwriter Ryan McMahon unveils his powerful new single “There She Is,” produced by Steve Dawson and recorded at Bryan Adams’ Warehouse Studio in Vancouver. The track stands as one of Ryan’s most personal and moving compositions—a song about rediscovering beauty, forgiving oneself, and finding sanctuary in the simplest moments of life. With seven solo - [Danny Marks Releases two-zided anthem ‘One Way Ticket Home’ and ‘Please Mister Conductor’](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/25/danny-marks-releases-two-zided-anthem-one-way-ticket-home-and-please-mister-conductor/) - Toronto-born musician, broadcaster, and storyteller Danny Marks releases his new double-sided single “One Way Ticket Home” b/w “Please Mister Conductor,” out now through Cabbagetunes Records. The release unites Danny's authentic voice and masterful guitar work in a celebration of homecoming, resilience, and the spirit of the Blues. A lifelong pillar of Canadian music, Danny began - [Concert review: Elisapie - Nov. 6 at the Oakville Place Theatre](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/24/concert-review-elisapie-nov-6-at-the-oakville-place-theatre/) - This past month has pretty much been full of live music for my partner and I, and on Nov. 6, we were incredibly fortunate to attend a concert by Juno award-winning Inuit artist Elisapie at the lovely and intimate Oakville Place theatre, a few kilometres west of Toronto. And a beautiful musical experience it was. - [How the Pairs aimed to match their live performance sound on Together on a Rock](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/22/how-the-pairs-aimed-to-match-their-live-performance-sound-on-together-on-a-rock/) - An age-old challenge for many a performer is trying to match the energy of their stage shows once they get into the recording studio. Many times, audience members will go to the merch table in search of the album that best reflects what they just saw. Artists will sometimes release a live album for that - [Riverfest Elora announces it is shutting down](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/20/riverfest-elora-announces-it-is-shutting-down/) - Riverfest Elora has become the latest Canadian music festival to fall victim to escalating production costs in the post-pandemic era. The festival has announced it is shutting down after 15 years. "The reality is that Riverfest Elora has turned only modest profits a handful of times in its 15-year history, and none in recent years," - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/21/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-26/) - TODD SNIDER 1966 - 2025 As we reported in the last edition of Roots Round Up, beloved alt-country singer-songwriter Todd Snider was involved in a mysterious incident on Oct. 31 while on tour in Salt Lake City, Utah that allegedly involved him being physically assaulted. A day later, Snider was arrested for aggressive behavior at - [Justine Giles reveals more on latest single 'Parts of Me'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/21/justine-giles-reveals-more-on-latest-single-parts-of-me/) - After sharing the single “Past Life” this summer, Justine Giles returns with “Parts Of Me,” another song that compellingly displays her evolution as a songwriter following her 2024 EP, Another Chance. “Parts Of Me” is a confessional ballad in the Joni Mitchell tradition, supported by a subtle, atmospheric arrangement, featuring pianist Sarah Houston and overseen - [Tara Leavey and Amanda Jean release 'Line of Fire' about Tara's Second World War vet father](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/20/tara-leavey-and-amanda-jean-release-line-of-fire-about-taras-second-world-war-vet-father/) - Trenton, ON singer-songwriters Tara Leavey and Amanda Jean have released their deeply personal single, "Line of Fire," now streaming on all major platforms. The song stands as a powerful collaboration between mother and daughter — a tribute to family resilience and the enduring strength of music to carry stories that words alone cannot hold. Rooted - [Ethan Askey and The Elevators ride down highway 61 on soulful new single 'Clarksdale'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/19/ethan-askey-and-the-elevators-ride-down-highway-61-on-soulful-new-single-clarksdale/) - Ethan Askey & the Elevators have released their newest single “Clarksdale,” a road-ready slice of upbeat blues that fuses slide guitar, harmonica, heartfelt storytelling, and deep groove. Written by frontman Ethan Askey and guitarist Keith Larsen, the track pays homage to spiritual birthplaces of blues, soul, and rock and roll. “Purveyors of fine Rocky Mountain - [Winterfolk XXIV returns to Toronto for four days of roots and blues at the Tranzac Club](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/18/winterfolk-xxiv-returns-to-toronto-for-four-days-of-roots-and-blues-at-the-tranzac-club/) - Winterfolk XXIV, Toronto’s beloved mid-winter music festival, returns bigger than ever for its 24th year with four full days of live roots and blues music at the Tranzac Club from Feb. 12–15, 2026. Featuring more than 100 artists across multiple stages, Winterfolk celebrates the city’s vibrant folk, blues, and singer-songwriter community — keeping live music - [A tribute to Richard Forest, who passed away suddenly earlier this month](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/17/a-tribute-to-richard-forest-who-passed-away-suddenly-earlier-this-month/) - There has been a huge upheaval in the force that is Québecois traditional music. Fiddler and composer Richard Forest has suddenly died. It seems that his generous heart has given out, at the very young age of 68. His passing leaves an enormous void. Born in Montreal, Richard absorbed many wonderful influences on his journey - [Here are your 2025 folk/roots, global and Indigenous MusicNL award winners](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/17/here-are-your-2025-folk-roots-global-and-indigenous-musicnl-award-winners/) - Rawlins Cross co-founder Dave Panting was given the Lifetime Achievement Award by MusicNL this weekend, and Michelle LaCour took home Recording Engineer/Producer of the Year. Add her to your list of notable female Canadian producers, folks. Those were two of the highlights of Saturday night's MusicNL Awards, the penultimate event of the annual MusicNL Week. - [How the horses of Sable Island inspired a song on Lennie Gallant's new album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/15/how-the-horses-of-sable-island-inspired-a-song-on-lennie-gallants-new-album/) - As you go through life, you’ll occasionally hear a saying that involves a horse. Think of “hold your horses,” “put the cart before the horse,” “have horse sense,” “a horse of a different colour” and many more. Now courtesy of Prince Edward Island singer-songwriter Lennie Gallant, we have a new one. "It Takes a Lot - [Vancouver's Elliot C. Way returns with soulful alt-country single 'Fool's Gold'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/14/vancouvers-elliot-c-way-returns-with-soulful-alt-country-single-fools-gold/) - Almost three years after his critically acclaimed debut album All I Know, Vancouver alt-country artist Elliot C. Way is back with a new single “Fool’s Gold,” a song that combines ‘70s soul and outlaw grit with a double-shot of raw truth that Way pours straight down your throat. “Fool’s Gold” was originally written and recorded - [Concert review: Robert Plant and Saving Grace at Massey Hall, Toronto, Nov. 10](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/14/concert-review-robert-plant-and-saving-grace-at-massey-hall-toronto-nov-10/) - The first snowfall of the season created an appropriately brooding atmosphere for the debut Toronto appearance of Robert Plant's new band Saving Grace, on tour in support of the recently released album of the same name. The group's sound is the closest Plant has come so far as a solo artist in capturing the mystical - [A letter from Heather to artists about this year's Critics' Poll](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/13/a-letter-from-heather-to-artists-about-this-years-critics-poll/) - Hi folks, You have likely noticed from this morning's post on Roots Music Canada, that we have issued an open invitation for participants this year. Previously, the Critics' Poll email only went out to a select list of media and industry people, though I have issued a kind of "closed call" for participation before. We - [Here is your invitation to take part in the 2025 Penguin Eggs / Roots Music Canada Critics' Poll](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/13/here-is-your-invitation-to-take-part-in-the-2025-penguin-eggs-roots-music-canada-critics-poll/) - What were your favourite new albums in 2025? If you had to list 10, what would they be? If you can answer that question, then you're invited to take part in the 25th annual Penguin Eggs Roots Music Canada Critics' Poll (previously the Penguin Eggs Critics Poll). Each year, we invite DJs, music journalists, industry - [Edmonton Folk Fest to receive Folk Alliance International Clearwater Award](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/13/edmonton-folk-fest-to-receive-folk-alliance-international-clearwater-award/) - Folk Alliance International has announced that the Edmonton Folk Music Festival will be next year's recipient of its Clearwater Award. The Clearwater Award is presented to a festival that prioritizes environmental stewardship and demonstrates public leadership in sustainable event production. Since the early 1990s, the EFMF has worked in close partnership with the City of - [Maria Dunn reflects on nearly 30 years in music as she launches Hardscrabble Hope](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/08/maria-dunn-reflects-on-nearly-30-years-in-music-as-she-launches-hardscrabble-hope/) - The new Maria Dunn album, Hardscrabble Hope, will be the Edmonton social activist and Juno Award-winning folk songwriter’s eighth. It’s a wonderful collection of new songs — a reflection on the past five years — and covers a range of subjects, both harsh and humorous. There are songs about the COVID-19 pandemic, homelessness, social connections, - [Grit Laskin releases The Stradivari Formula, a thrilling novel inspired by craft and creation](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/12/grit-laskin-releases-the-stradivari-formula-a-thrilling-novel-inspired-by-craft-and-creation/) - Internationally celebrated Canadian luthier, musician, and author William “Grit” Laskin unveils his latest creative chapter with his thriller novel The Stradivari Formula, published by Fitzhenry & Whiteside. A gripping mystery that bridges centuries of musical history and craftsmanship, the book draws on Grit’s deep understanding of the artistry, precision and passion that define the world - [5 covers of 'The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald' on the 50th anniversary of its sinking](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/10/5-covers-of-the-wreck-of-the-edmund-fitzgerald-on-the-50th-anniversary-of-its-sinking/) - Had Gordon Lightfoot never written “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald,” it’s possible many Canadians would never have heard of the tragedy that befell the freighter in Lake Superior on Nov. 10, 1975. If they had, it would likely only come to mind if a newspaper ran a story on the anniversary of the sinking - [Josh Ritchie broadens his vision on latest album So Much More Than a Dream](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/07/josh-ritchie-broadens-his-vision-on-latest-album-so-much-more-than-a-dream/) - By the time an artist makes their third album, it’s a safe bet they’ve learned a few lessons. In the case of singer/songwriter Josh Ritchie, those lessons led to taking control of all aspects of So Much More Than a Dream, with the result being a dynamically powerful 11-song collection that blurs the lines between - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/07/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-25/) - SIDE DOOR ACCESS TO SHUT DOWN AT END OF 2025 Side Door Access, the booking and ticketing company launched in 2017 by Dan Mangan and Laura Simpson, has announced that it will be winding down operations at the end of this year. Although it has become an important part of the Canadian live music ecosystem, - [From northern commune to national festival circuit to community artist: Rodney Brown marks 48 years since debut](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/06/from-northern-commune-to-national-festival-circuit-to-community-artist-rodney-brown-marks-48-years-since-debut/) - Rodney Brown wrote the songs for his 1977 debut album, Freedom in Me, while living in a commune near Thunder Bay with the woman who would become his wife, milking cows, doing chores, reading, writing songs and being in love, he said. It was among the first independently released albums in Canada, and it catapulted - [Jolie Anastasia to launch Guiding Light with Collingwood area concerts Thurs. and Sat.](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/05/jolie-anastasia-to-launch-guiding-light-with-collingwood-area-concerts-thurs-and-sat/) - There’s a certain presence that comes with hearing Jolie Anastasia sing—a wisdom far beyond her years, wrapped in a voice equal parts tender and unshakable. With her debut full-length album, Guiding Light, arriving Friday and the title cut out now, the Collingwood-based singer-songwriter is quickly establishing herself as one of folk and roots music’s most - [2 more amazing shows you don't want to miss this month at the Rogue Folk Club](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/04/2-more-amazing-shows-you-dont-want-to-miss-this-month-at-the-rogue-folk-club/) - Vancouver's Rogue Folk Club kicked off November with the Madison Violate farewell tour. Now it's got two more amazing shows coming up that you won't want to miss. One of them is Juno winner Jenny Whiteley's new project. The other is a project that you might call an "offshoot' of Black Umfolosi. For more information - [Cynthia Hamar's transformation into BirdBelly is complete on The Wind The Wood](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/31/cynthia-hamars-transformation-into-birdbelly-is-complete-on-the-wind-the-wood/) - In 2019, Cynthia Hamar was feeling a growing desire to get closer to the core of her music making process, prompting her to enroll in the Recording and Production program at MacEwan University in Edmonton, through which she earned a Bachelor of Music degree with distinction in 2023. In the midst of her studies, she - [Chris McKhool celebrates 30th anniversary of family music with 'A Place in the Choir'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/03/chris-mckhool-celebrates-30th-anniversary-of-family-music-with-a-place-in-the-choir/) - “A Place in the Choir” is the second single from multiple Parent’s Choice Award Winner Chris McKhool’s upcoming family album entitled Little Leaf. “’A Place in the Choir’ sings of belonging, where every creature — large or small, ordinary or strange — has a note to add to life’s great chorus,” said Chris. “The variety - [Le Vent du Nord plays the Aurora Cultural Centre on Nov. 8](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/11/02/le-vent-du-nord-plays-the-aurora-cultural-centre-on-nov-8/) - One of the most celebrated bands to emerge from the Québec folk scene is kicking off this month's offerings at the Aurora Cultural Centre outside Toronto. A driving force in the evolution of Francophone roots music, Le Vent du Nord has performed more than 2,200 concerts across four continents and has released more than a dozen - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/31/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-24/) - LUCINDA WILLIAMS SETS JAN. 23 RELEASE DATE FOR WORLD'S GONE WRONG On Jan. 23, Lucinda Williams fans will be treated to a new studio album by the legendary singer/songwriter entitled World’s Gone Wrong, released through Highway 20 Records. The title track, featuring Brittney Spencer, is available now on streaming services. The 10-song LP is the - [Here are your Canadian Folk Music Award nominees for 2025](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/31/here-are-your-canadian-folk-music-award-nominees-for-2025/) - Toronto singer-songwriter AHI and Nova Scotia duo Cassie and Maggie lead the nominations for this year's Canadian Folk Music Awards, which were announced this week. The Awards will be handed out across a series of events April 9-12 in Calgary. The full list of nominees is below. This year, the Folk Awards have also created a nominee - [Q&A: Jory Nash speaks to Paul Corby ahead of Saturday Toronto album launch](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/30/qa-jory-nash-speaks-to-paul-corby-ahead-of-saturday-toronto-album-launch/) - Singer / song slinger Jory Nash has a brand new record being launched at Hugh’s Room Live this Saturday. It's called The Light Still Shines on the Main. Here's what he told Paul Corby about the new record: Corby: Congratulations. This was what you could call an unexpected pregnancy. How spontaneous did the combustion seem - [Reviews of music from earlier in 2025: Julian Taylor/Jim Cuddy, Robert Thomas, Jane & Kyle](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/28/reviews-of-music-from-earlier-in-2025-julian-taylor-jim-cuddy-robert-thomas-jane-kyle/) - The moose had a pretty busy spring and summer and is finally catching up on listening to all of the goodness that arrived in the virtual mailbox earlier this year. Here are a few things that have stood out to him so far. Julian Taylor and Jim Cuddy - "Tulsa Time" I don’t know what - [Land Heart Song (Tiiu Strutt) releases new single about belonging in nature](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/29/land-heart-song-tiiu-strutt-releases-new-single-about-belonging-in-nature/) - With a sun-kissed voice and a heart tuned to the rhythms of the natural world, Land Heart Song (a.k.a. Tiiu Strutt) returns with a powerful new single, "You Belong Here." Already shared as a moving music video in collaboration with Child and Nature Alliance of Canada (CNAC) and Black in Nature, the song invites listeners - [Joe H. Henry follows ECMA-nominated debut with new EP and single](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/27/joe-h-henry-follows-ecma-nominated-debut-with-new-ep-and-single/) - Some voices sneak up on you. Joe H. Henry’s doesn’t. It hits like a thunderclap in an empty church—sacred, soulful, and impossible to ignore. The East Coast singer-songwriter has been lighting up stages across the Maritimes with a sound that fuses Americana grit, soulful storytelling, and gospel-sized emotion. With a voice “as powerful as a - [How Barbara Lynch says what she always wanted to say on her new album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/26/how-barbara-lynch-says-what-she-always-wanted-to-say-on-her-new-album/) - Barbara Lynch is a musician/singer/songwriter from Toronto. Her first album, Goodbye and Goodluck, was released by Duke Street Records in 1996. Barbara self-produced her second album, In the Nickelodeon, in 2008 and then in 2009 become a part of the new Cowboy Junkies' record label, Latent Recordings. This year she released her third album, where did you go. Here's what she shared - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/24/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-23/) - ALAN DOYLE ANNOUNCES ALREADY DANCING EP AND 2026 TOUR Get ready to have your fill of Alan Doyle over the coming year. Just as his musical Tell Tale Harbour is about to end its run at Toronto's Royal Alexandra Theatre on Nov. 2, the Great Big Sea co-founder will release of his fourth book, The - [Veteran Vancouver roots rocker Rich Hope announces Live At The ANZA Club LP](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/24/veteran-vancouver-roots-rocker-rich-hope-announces-live-at-the-anza-club-lp/) - For two nights this past April, Rich Hope ruled Vancouver. Setting up shop at the ANZA Club on W 8th Ave, he and his band blazed through their original repertoire of blues-rock and Americana, with the highlights now preserved on what’s increasingly becoming an endangered species: the live album. However, making Live At The - [Singing Together: VFSS, Community, and the Power of Song](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/07/singing-together-vfss-community-and-the-power-of-song/) - The Vancouver Folk Song Society (VFSS) is the longest-running continuous folk music club in Canada. It was founded in 1959 in Vancouver, BC, when Phil and Hilda Thomas, Al Cox, Jeannie Moss and Rolf Ingelsrud began to share their dedication to singing, activism and traditional music with one another. The Folk Song Circle they started - [Get ready for the Memberz Syndicate album release concert tonight in Toronto](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/23/get-ready-for-the-memberz-syndicate-album-release-concert-tonight-in-toronto/) - Toronto’s durable reggae ensemble, The Memberz (recently re-branded as Memberz Syndicate), have been relentlessly on task for the past year, creating an album of their original works from the last decade. This week, the goal line finally comes into sight, with the release tomorrow of Set Dem Free, and a launch concert tonight (Thursday) at - [Singer-Songwriter Aynsley Saxe Reaches New Heights with “Next Level Love”](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/23/singer-songwriter-aynsley-saxe-reaches-new-heights-with-next-level-love/) - Georgetown, ON, singer-songwriter Aynsley Saxe is soaring once again with the release of her new single “Next Level Love,” a track that elevates her sound to luminous new heights. Following the heartfelt intimacy of “Stranger to Myself,” this latest offering carries the same authenticity while embracing passion, desire and unrestrained joy as its guiding force. - [Toronto's Country Rising Star Hayden Ryann Stands Tall with Empowering New Single 'No Room for Bitchin''](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/22/torontos-country-rising-star-hayden-ryann-stands-tall-with-empowering-new-single-no-room-for-bitchin/) - Toronto-born artist Hayden Ryann brings a confident new voice to country-pop with her single “No Room for Bitchin’” (Slammin’ Media, distributed worldwide by Believe), out now. At just 21 years old, Hayden combines modern lyrical directness with the warmth of country storytelling and the energy of pop, crafting music that resonates with young listeners who - [Francis Baptiste Strikes a Raw Chord With Indigenous Folk-Rock Testament “Locked in for Life”](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/21/francis-baptiste-strikes-a-raw-chord-with-indigenous-folk-rock-testament-locked-in-for-life/) - Francis Baptiste, the Syilx singer-songwriter whose voice has become a vessel for Indigenous truth and lived testimony, presents his latest single “Locked In For Life,” a searing portrait of survival in East Vancouver. The track arrives as Francis continues to build momentum toward his third full-length album, Lived Experience in East Vancouver, and confirms his - [The Community Folk Festival caps of the Folk Canada conference with free music in Vanier](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/19/the-community-folk-festival-caps-of-the-folk-canada-conference-with-free-music-in-vanier/) - It is literally shorts-and-t-shirt weather in Ottawa today as the community folk festival unfolds in the Vanier neighbourhood of Ottawa. Concerns about the impending extinction of humanity due to climate change are momentarily suspended as at least 100 people sit back in deck chairs or on park benches or stand around the perimeter of St. - [Here are your 2025 Ontario Folk Music Award winners](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/16/here-are-your-2025-ontario-folk-music-award-winners/) - Sometime, probably in the not-too-distant future, Angelique Francis is going to be as massive a star as a roots musician can be — the blues equivalent of Allison Russell winning Grammys, performing on Jimmy Kimmell and singing on-stage with Joni Mitchell at the Newport Folk Festival. And when that happens and we all start sharing - [Heather's Folk Canada conference travelogue: Saturday, Oct. 18](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/19/heathers-folk-canada-conference-travelogue-saturday-oct-18/) - Corby has been raving to me about the Lifers’ new album ever since it came out last month, calling it, and I quote, “Kate Bush level.” So I decide to open my showcase watching tonight at their showcase in the ballroom. Yup. Sisters Liv and Anita are definitely giving Kate Bush and Jane Siberry vibes - [Heather's Folk Canada conference travelogue: Friday, Oct. 17](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/18/heathers-folk-canada-conference-travelogue-friday-oct-17/) - Crystal Shawanda closes her set in the Capitale room on Friday night with a cover of Willie Dixon's “Wang Dang Doodle” so we can all appreciate just how much she sounds like Queen of the Blues Koko Taylor, who made it famous. Best of all, her young daughter, Zhaazhaa, who until this point has been - [Heather's Folk Canada Conference Travelogue: Thursday, Oct. 16](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/17/heathers-folk-music-ontario-conference-travelogue-thursday-oct-16/) - My Thursday at the Folk Canada conference begins with a workshop called #bursttheirbubble, in which Andrew Karis of ACTRA RACS, Rosalyn Dennett of Folk Canada and artist Lisa Iwanycki discuss efforts to rally support for campaigns to urge the federal government to update the Copyright Act and pass Bill C-11, the Online Streaming Act. That's - [Pony Gold comes of age on full-length debut album High Road Reverie](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/17/pony-gold-comes-of-age-on-full-length-debut-album-high-road-reverie/) - While growing up in Smithers, British Columbia, Theresa Anne Bromley developed a strong connection to the Telkwa High Road, a place where she spent countless hours dreaming of how she would create a life outside of her small community, and coming up with ideas for the songs that would eventually make that happen. In 2023, - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/17/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-22/) - LUKAS NELSON AND SIERRA FERRELL SHARE NEIL YOUNG BLUEGRASS COVER Lukas Nelson, Sierra Ferrell and The Travelin’ McCourys have teamed up for a bluegrass version of Neil Young’s late-period classic, “Unknown Legend.” It's available now on all digital platforms. Nelson and Ferrell sang “Unknown Legend” together recently as part of Nelson's set at Farm Aid - [10 emerging artists Heather can't wait to check out at Folk Canada](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/15/10-emerging-artists-heather-cant-wait-to-check-out-at-folk-canada/) - The showcase lineup at this year’s Folk Canada conference feels almost like an actual folk festival lineup, given the number of well-known artists on the bill—names you might expect to see on a mainstage somewhere: James Keelaghan, Suzie Ungerleider, Crystal Shawanda, Lennie Gallant, Indian City, E.T.E., Lonesome Ace Stringband and Don Amero, to name but - [Mike Bern releases evocative new single 'Into the River'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/14/mike-bern-releases-evocative-new-single-into-the-river/) - Indigenous folk-rock singer-songwriter Mike Bern enters a new creative phase with the release of his single “Into The River.” Building on the acclaim of recent projects including “Echoes” and “We Are The Stars,” Mike continues to define his voice as both a storyteller and a cultural innovator. His latest track reflects the momentum of a - [7 sessions Heather can't wait to check out at Folk Canada](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/13/7-sessions-heather-cant-wait-to-check-out-at-folk-canada/) - From a Dating Game-style introduction to the country’s artistic directors to a speed-dating-style old-time dance networking event, the annual Folk Canada – formerly Folk Music Ontario – conference will have some novel offerings when it kicks off Wednesday in Ottawa. Apart from those unique sessions, there is a robust workshop lineup focusing on everything from - [Strings Attached: Shannon Johnson on Family, Folk and Finding Her Sound](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/11/strings-attached-shannon-johnson-on-family-folk-and-finding-her-sound/) - Edmonton, AB’s Shannon Johnson is a Juno Award-winning fiddle player, singer, producer and co-leader, with her two brothers, of The McDades. Formed in 1980, the band plays Celtic-rooted music blended with elements of jazz and global rhythms. Shannon has produced and collaborated with a wide range of artists. She also regularly plays violin with a - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/10/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-21/) - RHEOSTATICS TO RETURN NOV. 21 WITH GUEST-PACKED NEW ALBUM Canadian indie-rock institution Rheostatics are gearing up to release a new album, The Great Lakes Suite, on Nov. 21. The 18-song collection is a guest-packed affair, with contributions from the likes of Rush's Alex Lifeson, Laurie Anderson, Tanya Tagaq, Barenaked Ladies' Kevin Hearn, and most suprisingly, - [NADJIWAN to release new album Now Is The Right Time Of Year on Oct. 24](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/10/nadjiwan-to-release-new-album-now-is-the-right-time-of-year-on-oct-24/) - One year after giving us the acclaimed album The Mission (recorded in New Mexico), Marc Meriläinen’s long-running Toronto/Thunder Bay-based musical project Nadjiwan is back with Now Is The Right Time Of Year, a new collection of eight original songs once again rooted in Indigenous traditions along with Meriläinen’s classic rock roots. Rather than build an - [Juno Nominee Chris McKhool of Sultans of String celebrates 30th anniversary of family music with new album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/09/juno-nominee-chris-mckhool-of-sultans-of-string-celebrates-30th-anniversary-of-family-music-with-new-album/) - "Little Leaf” is the title track from three-time Parent’s Choice Award Winner Chris McKhool’s upcoming family album, his first since releasing the CFMA-winning and Juno nominated FiddleFire! 17 years ago. You can stream it now here. “The song is inspired by my long-time collaborator, Ojibway Elder Dr. Duke Redbird,” said Chris, who was recently awarded - [Tom Wilson (Tehoháhake) releases new single co-written with Tanya Talaga](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/08/tom-wilson-tehohahake-releases-new-single-co-written-with-tanya-talaga/) - Celebrated Canadian musician, author, and visual artist Tom Wilson (Tehoháhake) announces the release of his new single “We Live In Dreams,” co-written with award-winning journalist, storyteller, and filmmaker Tanya Talaga. The song is featured in the powerful new documentary Ni-Naadamaadiz: Red Power Rising, directed by Shane Belcourt and produced by Tanya's company, Makwa Creative. The - [Gatineau singer-songwriter embraces van life to fuel creativity](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/04/gatineau-singer-songwriter-embraces-van-life-to-fuel-creativity/) - In today’s economic climate, it’s important for touring performers to adapt to changing realities. Last year, Gatineau, QC-based singer-songwriter Mia Kelly played 120 shows. Averaging out to one concert every three days, it means a lot of travel and a lot of nights in hotels, motels or other accommodations. It can all be a bit - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/03/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-20/) - COLTER WALL ANNOUNCES NEW ALBUM MEMORIES AND EMPTIES Since emerging on the scene in 2015 with his debut EP Imaginary Appalachia, Colter Wall has been at the forefront of the latest wave of Americana singer/songwriters. The Saskatchewan native -- his father is former premier Brad Wall -- is set to release his fifth full-length album, - [Mark Branscombe laments loss of liberty on new single "Blind Leading The Blind"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/03/mark-branscombe-laments-loss-of-liberty-on-new-single-blind-leading-the-blind/) - All of us have something to say about the current state of world, but few have the courage to put it into the form of a song as Mark Branscombe has done on “Blind Leading The Blind.” A veteran of Vancouver’s roots music scene, both on his own and as a member of The Gravel-Aires - [The Roots Ramble Fall Concert Series Launches October 11th in Stratford](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/02/the-roots-ramble-fall-concert-series-launches-october-11th-in-stratford/) - Autumn is the perfect season to ramble over to Stratford for a new series of five concerts featuring stellar all-Canadian artists, including Suzie Ungerleider, Lori Cullen and Zachary Lucky among many more. Stratford’s String Bone Presents! and Onrush Music Festival are collaborating to present The Roots Ramble to Stratford audiences this fall. Barry James Payne - [Madison Violet Announce Farewell Tour and Retrospective Album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/01/madison-violet-announce-farewell-tour-and-retrospective-album/) - TORONTO – After 25 years of making music together, JUNO-nominated duo Madison Violet are preparing to say goodbye. Brenley MacEachern and Lisa MacIsaac recently announced that 2025 will mark both their 25th anniversary and their final year together as a band. Please see the full list of upcoming tour dates below. For more information, visit - [Here are your 2025 Western Canadian Music Award winners in the roots and global categories](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/10/01/here-are-your-2025-western-canadian-music-award-winners-in-the-roots-and-global-categories/) - The Western Canadian Music Awards were handed out this past weekend at a ceremony in Winnipeg during Breakout West. And it was a good night for roots artists even in non-roots categories. Notably, Wyatt C. Louis won BreakOut Artist of the Year, to the surprise of nobody, and Kym Gouchie took home Children's Artist of - [Album Review: Matt Andersen - The Hammer and the Rose](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/30/album-review-matt-andersen-the-hammer-and-the-rose/) - Gordy the Moose is back! And he's catching up on the releases he missed out on earlier this year. Matt Andersen - The Hammer and the Rose Matt Andersen mellows right out on this heartfelt collection of soulful roots and blues numbers that’s filled with wholesomeness and heart. He’d started showing his sensitive side more - [4 amazing October shows at the Rogue Folk Club](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/29/4-amazing-october-shows-at-the-rogue-folk-club/) - Wow! It's quite a month at the Rogue Folk Club. We've got the legendary Lee Boys, an iconic Irish instrumentalist, and the guy who sings all the anti-MAGA cover tunes on social media. And that's not even all of the shows. Hopefully you've got a good-sized concert budget, because good luck picking from among these. - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/26/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-19/) - BAHAMAS PREVIEWS MY SECOND LAST ALBUM WITH "THE BRIDGE" Afie Jurvanen (aka Bahamas) has announced My Second Last Album, his seventh studio release and the follow-up to 2023’s CCMA-nominated country-infused Bootcut. The record arrives everywhere on October 24 and finds Jurvanen back in Nova Scotia, trading Nashville’s storied studios for the coastal quiet of a - [Exclusive preview: Clela Errington - 'Standing on the Platform'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/25/exclusive-preview-clela-errington-standing-on-the-platform/) - With a voice timeless and true, Toronto singer-songwriter Clela Errington releases her second single, “Standing on the Platform." Following closely on the heels of her excellent first single, “Full Moon Dark Time,” the new one is also drawn from the upcoming Walkin’ Each Other Home, Clela’s fifth studio album to date. "Standing on the Platform" - [Kate Weekes' forthcoming album derived from this canoe trip three years ago](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/23/kate-weekes-forthcoming-album-derived-from-this-canoe-trip-three-years-ago/) - Three years ago, as we were emerging from the pandemic-related restrictions on our ability to gather and travel, Ottawa artist Kate Weekes led a travelling musical residency down the Rideau Canal from Kingston to Ottawa. Her companions included Nathan Smith, Moonfruits, B!WILDer, Alan Weekes, Christine Graves, Christophe Elie, Piner, Arden Rogalsky and Stephen Fuller. Now, - [Why Matthew Byrne recorded his new album in England with guitarist Martin Simpson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/27/why-matthew-byrne-recorded-his-new-album-in-england-with-guitarist-martin-simpson/) - Growing up surrounded by music in Newfoundland and Labrador, Matthew Byrne didn’t think his family was unique in any way. His father, Joe, was one half of the folk duo Pat and Joe Byrne while his mother was a song collector. There was always unaccompanied singing in the house, sometimes until the wee hours of - [Ben Arsenault releases haunting new single 'Motel In Southern Idaho'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/26/ben-arsenault-releases-haunting-new-single-motel-in-southern-idaho/) - After establishing himself as a major voice on the Canadian alt-country scene with his 2024 sophomore album Make Way For This Heartache, Ben Arsenault has returned with a hauntingly twangy new single, “Motel In Southern Idaho.” Produced by Aiden Ayers (who also contributes guitar and bass), the song features additional stellar backing by Caleb Melo - [Exclusive preview: Geneviève Racette - 'Common Denominator'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/25/exclusive-preview-genevieve-racette-common-denominator/) - Geneviève Racette releases her latest single “Common Denominator” tomorrow, and we're thrilled to premiere it here on Roots Music Canada. It's a little different from some of the things we've heard from Geneviève in the past — a little less melancholy and a little more fierce. It's about the painful realization that someone who always - [Here's are the 6 house concert tours Home Routes has lined up for October](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/24/heres-are-the-6-house-concert-tours-home-routes-has-lined-up-for-october/) - We could all use a little community right now, and nothing says community like watching live music in the intimate setting of your neighbour's living room. That's what Home Routes has been offering us for years now, and they've got six new house concert tours lined up for October that all look fantastic. These shows - [Stratford country singer Janna Leduc unveils 'That's How' from upcoming debut album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/22/stratford-country-singer-janna-leduc-unveils-thats-how-from-upcoming-debut-album/) - Country music has a new voice that’s as real and grounded as the gravel roads she grew up on. Rising artist Janna Leduc, from Milverton and now based in Stratford, ON is gearing up to release her debut album, Long Time Comin’, this fall, with the single “That’s How,” out now. Janna’s music blends the - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/19/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-18/) - BOB DYLAN'S NEW BOOTLEG SERIES RELEASE GOES BACK TO THE BEGINNING Columbia Records and Legacy Recordings, the catalog division of Sony Music Entertainment, will release Bob Dylan’s Bootleg Series Volume 18: Through The Open Window, 1956-1963 on October 31. You can preview the album below by hearing the studio version of “Rocks and Gravel.” Through - [Joe Ray McDonald shares single 'Rodeo Son' in latest preview of Cowboy Cake LP](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/19/joe-ray-mcdonald-shares-single-rodeo-son-in-latest-preview-of-cowboy-cake-lp/) - After giving us “First Rains of May,” the stunning initial preview of his forthcoming album Cowboy Cake, rising Canadian alt-country singer/songwriter Joe Ray McDonald makes another powerful statement with his new single “Rodeo Son.” Like its predecessor, “Rodeo Son” showcases Joe Ray’s distinctive voice and recording approach, which could be best described as a homage - [Album review: Angelique Francis - Not Defeated](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/20/album-review-angelique-francis-not-defeated/) - We all have our preferences when it comes to musical genres, and plugged-in blues is generally not one of mine. But every now and again I hear an artist who cooks so good I want to eat whatever they’re feeding me, and Angelique Francis’ new album is platter for the ages. Not Defeated is a - [Country Artist Jeff Michaels Releases 'Sittin' Here On This Dock' Celebrating Simple Joys](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/18/country-artist-jeff-michaels-releases-sittin-here-on-this-dock-celebrating-simple-joys/) - Jeff Michaels has released his brand-new single "Sittin’ Here On This Dock," offering listeners a warm escape into moments of ease, reflection, and celebration, blending Jeff’s country roots with vivid storytelling. Born in Mississauga. ON and now based in Cambridge, ON, Jeff has grown his career as both a bandleader and a solo artist. His - [Album review: Tone of Voice Orchestra - Running from the Devil](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/17/album-review-tone-of-voice-orchestra-running-from-the-devil/) - The critical consensus about Denmark’s Tone of Voice Orchestra is that you’ve never heard anything like them, that their music defies categorization, that their highly original arrangements contain complex intercultural interactions between many diverse styles and that they are a great band! Well, I do love a challenge and so, ignoring the maxim that writing - [We have a weekly newsletter now!](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/16/we-have-a-weekly-newsletter-now/) - Exciting news, everyone: Roots Music Canada finally has a regularly scheduled weekly newsletter that delivers the content of our website into your inbox! Never miss a story or an important news flash about the Canadian folk, roots or world music communities. Truth be told, we've actually had the list up and running for a couple - [HuDost releases bold new album The Monkey in the Crown](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/15/hudost-releases-bold-new-album-the-monkey-in-the-crown/) - There’s a fire burning in the garden of Eden, and HuDost are inviting us to dance through the flames. With the release of their newest album, The Monkey in the Crown, out now on Open Sesame Music, the genre-defying duo from Montreal-by-way-of-Kentucky delivers a bold, cinematic collection that fuses Americana, world rock, and retro-pop with - [Why Stephen Fearing thought an offer from an esteemed record producer was a Nigerian Prince scam](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/13/why-stephen-fearing-thought-an-offer-from-an-esteemed-record-producer-was-a-nigerian-prince-scam/) - Over the course of writing songs for 16 solo albums, nine Blackie and the Rodeo Kings albums, and two albums with Northern Ireland singer-songwriter Andy White, one thing Stephen Fearing has learned is that his story is not necessarily what’s important to the story. While the lyric: You just might be civilized ’cause you were - [Mallory Chipman releases 'Old Man River' video in support of Alberta water preservation](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/12/mallory-chipman-releases-old-man-river-video-in-support-of-alberta-water-preservation/) - Alberta-based singer/songwriter Mallory Chipman has had a busy year on the road since releasing her latest album Songs To A Wild God a year ago, but when she's not playing music she remains a tireless supporter of preserving her home province's natural beauty. Much of Songs To A Wild God touches on this theme, most - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/12/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-17/) - AMERICANA MUSIC ASSOCIATION HANDS OUT 2025 AWARDS On Sept. 10, the 24th Americana Music Association Honors & Awards were given out at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, marking the annual highlight of Americanafest. Actor John C. Reilly was a first-time host, presiding over a wide-ranging list of winners, while also performing himself in duets with - [Ottawa-based Nova Scotian Glenn A Johnson releases Love and Loss: the Songs I Kept anthology](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/10/ottawa-based-nova-scotian-glenn-a-johnson-releases-love-and-loss-the-songs-i-kept-anthology/) - Glenn A. Johnson releases his songwriter’s anthology Love and Loss: The Songs I Kept, a collection that draws deeply on his Nova Scotia roots and a lifetime of storytelling. Born in Halifax and raised in Liverpool, Glenn carries the spirit of the East Coast in every note—anchored by the pull of the ocean and the - [Diyet and the Love Soldiers announce new album, Seeds of Dreaming, and 2025 Tour](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/11/diyet-and-the-love-soldiers-announce-new-album-seeds-of-dreaming-and-2025-tour/) - She was born in a tent and raised on the ancestral lands of the Kluane First Nation, surrounded by the wild beauty of the Yukon’s mountains and stories older than the map itself. Now, with her fourth album, Seeds of Dreaming, dropping Sept. 19, Diyet van Lieshout and her Love Soldiers are packing up the - [Francine Honey shifts into high gear with 'Cadillac'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/10/francine-honey-shifts-into-high-gear-with-cadillac/) - Ever wish your life came with leather seats, cruise control, and a killer soundtrack? Look no further. Canadian singer-songwriter Francine Honey’s single 'Cadillac* is a joyful, high-octane ode to blazing your own trail with horsepower and heart. With lap steel licks and a hook you’ll be humming for days, 'Cadillac' is the feel-good anthem for - [Calling all Winnipegers: BreakOut West still needs volunteers](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/09/calling-all-winnipegers-breakout-west-still-needs-volunteers/) - The organizers of BreakOut West are still looking for volunteers to staff the annual conference and awards show for the western Canadian music industry. This year's event takes place Sept. 24-28 at the Fairmont Winnipeg. If you're in Winnipeg, you're free between Sept. 23 and 28, and you'd like to earn a chance to spend - [Capital Music Award nominee Ash Ravens hits the gas on new album ‘Joyride Blues’](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/09/capital-music-award-nominee-ash-ravens-hits-the-gas-on-new-album-joyride-blues/) - Ash Ravens doesn’t just play the blues—he lives them, bends them, and invites you to go along for the ride. With the release of his latest album, Joyride Blues, the two-time Capital Music Award nominee proves that sometimes you have to lose the map to find the groove. Drawing from life in Bangladesh, Los Angeles, - [Rosie’s Smokehouse Deluxe rolls out 'Faded Tattoo'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/08/rosies-smokehouse-deluxe-rolls-out-faded-tattoo/) - A good blues song sticks to your ribs, and Rosie’s Smokehouse Deluxe serves it up hot. Their new single *'Faded Tattoo' is out now, and it’s as smoky and soulful as a late-night confession. A slow-burning ode to heartbreak, regret, and uncanny déjà vu, it’s a track built on stories lived, scars worn, and love - [Juno winner Angelique Francis is back with a new album and tour plans for the fall](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/08/juno-winner-angelique-francis-is-back-with-a-new-album-and-tour-plans-for-the-fall/) - You know you’re in the presence of a force when someone plays upright bass, harmonica, keys, and cigar box guitar and that’s before they open their mouth. Angelique Francis isn’t just the future of blues, roots, and soul; she’s the freight train pulling the whole genre into a new dimension. With her third studio album, - [Here's why Ron Sexsmith moved to Stratford -- and why he named his new album Hangover Terrace](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/06/heres-why-ron-sexsmith-moved-to-stratford-and-why-he-named-his-new-album-hangover-terrace/) - In his song, “House of Love,” Ron Sexsmith describes a “dirty happy home” where the children are “free range.” While that’s most likely not an accurate depiction of his house in Stratford ON, the singer-songwriter’s life has changed for the better since moving from Toronto. Ron and his family lived in a nice neighbourhood in - [Toronto roots rocker Nelson Sobral finds a laid back groove on new single "Built To Last"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/05/nelson-sobral-finds-a-laid-back-groove-on-new-single-built-to-last/) - After releasing his third album três! earlier this year, Toronto’s Nelson Sobral is back with a new single, “Built To Last,” a stirring roots-rock anthem about resilience, connection, and the bonds that endure. With its laid back groove, heartfelt harmonies from Tay Guitard, and the warm yet gritty production of Mattie Leon, the track delivers - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/05/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-16/) - BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN ANNOUNCES 'ELECTRIC NEBRASKA' BOX SET Although many Bruce Springsteen fans have long considered his 1982 album Nebraska a minimalist masterpiece, rumours have persisted that unreleased full-band versions of the songs were also made but shelved at the time in favor of the solo home recordings that became the official album. Springsteen is now - [Here are your 2025 Ontario Folk Music Award nominees](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/04/here-are-your-2025-ontario-folk-music-award-nominees/) - Folk Canada has announced the nominees for the 2025 Ontario Folk Music Awards to be handed out Oct. 15 at the National Arts Centre in Ottawa. Presented in partnership with the NAC, the 31st annual event will formally launch this year's Folk Music Ontario Conference. The event will feature performances by a select number of - [Here's who's doing house concert tours for Home Routes this September](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/03/heres-whos-doing-house-concert-tours-for-home-routes-this-september/) - Home Routes, Canada's largest house concert network, has announced the first concert tours for the fall season, and as always, the calibre of talent they've got lined up to play intimate concerts in your neighbours' living rooms is pretty damn great. I've personally seen Lache Cercel live, and he's fantastic. And the rest of the - [This favourite venue of artists and fans is closing down on Saturday](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/09/02/this-favourite-venue-of-artists-and-fans-is-closing-down-on-saturday/) - A favourite performance venue for roots artists and fans has announced it is closing its doors. Penticton’s Dream Cafe will host its final concert on Saturday after nearly 25 years of service to the Canadian music scene. The board of directors blamed the move on the soaring costs associated with concert production in the aftermath - [Connie Kaldor finally fits 'casserole' into a song lyric - and other stories from her new country album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/30/connie-kaldor-finally-fits-casserole-into-a-song-lyric-and-other-stories-from-her-new-country-album/) - Throughout her five-decade-long career in music, Connie Kaldor has always shone a light on everyday life in Western Canada, and specifically her home province of Saskatchewan. With songs like "Wood River," "Bird On A Wing0", "Sky with Nothing to Get in the Way" and many others, Connie has offered a glimpse into the beauty and - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/29/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-15/) - THE BROS. LANDRETH ARE SET TO RELEASE DOG EAR ON NOV. 14 Winnipeg roots rockers the Bros. Landreth have announced Dog Ear, the long-awaited follow-up to their Juno-winning 2022 album Come Morning, which will be released Nov. 14 through Birthday Cake Records. The 11-track collection features guest appearances from Bonnie Raitt and Begonia, with the - [Cynthia Hamar returns as BirdBelly and previews new album with "Black Horses"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/29/cynthia-hamar-returns-as-birdbelly-and-previews-new-album-with-black-horses/) - BirdBelly is the new moniker of Métis singer-songwriter Cynthia Hamar—a cinematic, poetic Americana project that blends deep roots with spiritual insight. BirdBelly also marks the latest stage in the Alberta-born Hamar’s artistic evolution that began in her teens with homemade cassettes and later, two albums comprised of raw, personal folk-pop. By 2019, Hamar was feeling - [Newfoundland singer-songwriter selected for mentorship with Seal](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/28/newfoundland-singer-songwriter-selected-for-mentorship-with-seal/) - Twenty-two-year-old Newfoundland singer-songwriter Becca Bartlett is in New Jersey this week, taking part in a mentorship program with Seal, the Grammy-winning British singer known for hits such as “Crazy” and “Kiss from a Rose.” She’s one of two NL artists selected to take part through a collaboration with The Person First, formerly known as the - [A hilarious, frightening and ultimately reassuring story about AI](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/27/geoffrey-kelly-a-life-in-music/) - On Monday, we published a feature here on Roots Music Canada about a near-legendary musician in Canadian roots music: Geoffrey Kelly of Spirit of the West, the Irish Rovers and the Paperboys. It was a magnificent magazine-length feature written by Tim Readman—himself no slouch in the U.K.-influenced folk department—that reflected the years-long friendship between the - [Geoffrey Kelly on Spirit of the West, the Rovers, the Paperboys and the future](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/26/geoffrey-kelly-on-spirit-of-the-west-the-rovers-the-paperboys-and-the-future/) - One problem for musicians is that many of your friends are also musicians and, given the hectic schedule and touring involved in that way of life, you don’t get to see them as often as you’d like. So it was especially pleasant to get the chance for a proper catch up with Geoffrey Kelly as - [5 amazing concerts to kick off the 2025-2026 Rogue Folk season](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/26/5-amazing-concerts-to-kick-off-the-2025-2026-rogue-folk-season/) - Another folk festival season is just about behind us, but the good news is, the folk club seasons are just getting started. And the Rogue Folk Club is kicking off its new season this September with a rich lineup of artists from across Canada and beyond. From award-winning veterans to genre-blending innovators, these unforgettable live - [Here are your 2025 MusicnNL Award nominees](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/23/here-are-your-2025-musicnnl-award-nominees/) - MusicNL has announced its 2025 award nominees. Leading nominee Mallory Johnson, with six nods, is among the contenders in the country category, while Quote the Raven, in second place with five, is nominated in the folk category. Rube & Rake also appear in multiple categories, including Ron Hynes Songwriter of the Year, which is pretty - [David James Allen previews new album with haunting single "Platform No. 12 (Old Friends)"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/22/david-james-allen-previews-new-album-with-haunting-single-platform-no-12-old-friends/) - With his latest single “Platform No. 12 (Old Friends),” Canadian singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist David James Allen continues to show why he is on the cutting edge of Americana. Whether channelling the rootsy funk of The Band and Bill Withers, or delivering a devastating ballad in the style of Townes Van Zandt and Harry Nilsson, David - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/22/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-14/) - THE STRUMBELLAS ANNOUNCE BURNING BRIDGES TO DUST EP Fresh off a summer of festival appearances, Canadian folk-rockers The Strumbellas are keeping the momentum going with a new single “Maybe It’s Me”, out now via Glassnote Records. The track follows their recent single “Hard Lines” and offers the second glimpse at the EP, Burning Bridges Into - [Day Two at the Trout Forest Music Festival brings hot sun, even hotter music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/10/day-two-at-the-trout-forest-music-festival-brings-hot-sun-even-hotter-music/) - Saturday at the Trout Forest Music Festival starts with a workshop called Moody Canadians with Rachel Kilgour, Kacy and Clayton and The Secret Beach. I’ve never heard of the Secret Beach, perhaps because it's a secret (ha!) but Micah Erenberg makes his talent known immediately with a song I can only explain as being about - [Francis Baptiste Lays His Heart Bare on New Single “Rent Free in My Mind” + Announces New Tour Dates](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/21/francis-baptiste-lays-his-heart-bare-on-new-single-rent-free-in-my-mind-announces-new-tour-dates/) - With his signature blend of raw honesty, retro charm and deeply lived storytelling, Francis Baptiste returns with "Rent Free In My Mind," a vulnerable new single about love, memory and the grace of second chances. Following the hard-hitting "Aspirin for the Soul," Francis now turns inward — trading the blues of survival for the quiet - [Alt. Country's Damn Coyote Chris Releases "Bethy's Gift" - A Quiet Goodbye Wrapped in Stars and Song](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/20/alt-countrys-damn-coyote-chris-releases-bethys-gift-a-quiet-goodbye-wrapped-in-stars-and-song/) - With a guitar in his hands and a story etched deep in his bones, Damn Coyote Chris returns with "Bethy’s Gift," the soul-stirring fourth track from his 2025 album Departures — a record he describes as "an honest and personal collection of comfort-food songs from my Private Reserve." "Bethy’s Gift" is a love letter, a - [Americana Singer-Songwriter KC Armstrong Returns with "When You're Gone"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/19/americana-singer-songwriter-kc-armstrong-returns-with-when-youre-gone/) - With the runaway success of "I Don't Care" hitting the Top 10 on the Canadian Independent Country Countdown, Americana artist KC Armstrong is riding a wave of momentum into his next chapter. Today, he releases his new single, "When You're Gone" — a cheeky, soulful tune filled with wit, rhythm and personal history that stretches - [Why bother making music in an era of algorithms and AI? Here's what Lionel Doe of So Dirty the Flamingos concluded](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/18/why-bother-making-music-in-an-era-of-algorithms-and-ai-heres-what-lionel-doe-of-so-dirty-the-flamingos-concluded/) - Some songs come quickly, as if they already know what they want to be. Others take their time—circling, stalling, waiting for the right moment to land. It’s not always about effort. Sometimes it feels like something quieter is at work, just beneath the surface—a subtle pull from somewhere deeper, shaping the song on its own - [Vancouver's Mark Ledlin Hits the Gas with Blue-Collar Anthem "Wish I Was"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/16/vancouvers-mark-ledlin-hits-the-gas-with-blue-collar-anthem-wish-i-was/) - Mark Ledlin is swinging for the fences again. His new single, “Wish I Was,” out now via XOXO Entertainment Corp./Believe, is more than a summer anthem — it’s a working-class dream set to a driving country-rock beat, penned by a man who traded his pro hockey gear for a guitar and never looked back. Written - [Ian James Bain blazes his own alt-country trail on new EP At Your Service](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/15/ian-james-bain-blazes-his-own-alt-country-trail-on-new-ep-at-your-service/) - On his new EP, At Your Service, Ian James Bain is ready to step into the spotlight and join the ranks of young singer/songwriters carrying on the tradition of their honky tonk heroes. He’s already got plenty of experience in that field, serving as touring guitarist with Jeremie Albino, and as a core member of - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/15/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-13/) - A SINEAD O'CONNOR BIOPIC IS IN THE WORKS According to a report in Variety, a group of Irish and U.K. production companies are ready to start getting a Sinead O'Connor biopic underway. The as yet untitled project is said to build upon the documentary Nothing Compares, which O'Connor participated in prior to her death in - [Norm Hacking’s 75th Heavenly Birthday Party at the Tranzac – Aug. 1](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/14/norm-hackings-75th-heavenly-birthday-party-at-the-tranzac-aug-1/) - “The past is never dead. It's not even past.” — William Faulkner, Requiem for a Nun There was an oblong object gleaming just off to the corner of Toronto’s Tranzac stage last Friday, the very first night of August, under a waxing quarter moon. Wearing an old brim hat with two buttons flashing an inscription, - [37 years after his first Edmonton folk fest Larry Saidman reflects on what's changed and what hasn't](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/12/37-years-after-his-first-edmonton-folk-fest-larry-saidman-reflects-on-whats-changed-and-what-hasnt/) - Are you more amazed at how things change or how things stay the same? In Cheryl Wheeler’s great song “75 Septembers,” she asks that question of her grandmom, who grew up between the wars and is now turning 75. I’m 77, so it’s a good question for me to ask myself. The last time I - [Saturday at the Edmonton Folk Music Festival: Mary Gauthier, Taj Mahal and a tweener highlight](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/11/saturday-at-the-edmonton-folk-festival/) - The day started great! After a late night, I got myself up to arrive early and try to get a decent spot for the evening main stage concerts — and I succeeded, even though everything was pretty much full. I took advantage of the smallest cracks in between the tarps. The first sessions had started, - [Cara Luft's drinking game and other highlights of Trout Forest Music Festival Day 1](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/09/42671/) - We arrive in the lineup at the Trout Forest Music Festival gate as newly-minted Juno-winner and iconic Canadian bluesman Big Dave McLean is launching into “Dust My Broom” – Elmore James style – on bottleneck guitar. And not long after, Jadea Kelly breaks into John Prine's “Angel from Montgomery.” Right away, Trout deserves credit for - [Trout Forest Day 3: crying our way through Rachel Kilgour's set and dancing in the rain](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/11/trout-forest-day-3-crying-our-way-through-rachel-kilgours-set-and-dancing-in-the-rain/) - I'm crying. Veronica’s crying. Rachel Kilgour is crying. We're all having a little therapy session at Rachel Kilgour’s Sunday lunchtime concert where she's mostly playing songs from her last album, My Father Loved Me, a memorial to her deceased father, who, like many dads, didn't always know how to express his love for his child. - [Saturday night at the Trout Forest Music Festival: rain can't put out this fire](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/10/saturday-night-at-the-trout-forest-music-festival-rain-cant-put-out-this-fire/) - I end up watching Rodney Brown’s set from beside the stage because the phone I’m typing these reports on is dying, and I need to charge it at the giant bank of outlets in the centre of the festival grounds. Rodney, for the uninitiated, is pretty well synonymous with folk in northwestern Ontario. He toured - [Larry Saidman discovers Stephen Wilson Jr. during Day 2 of the Edmonton Folk Music Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/09/larry-saidman-discovers-stephen-wilson-jr-during-day-2-of-the-edmonton-folk-music-festival/) - I suspect that the folk festival organizers had a brilliant strategy for bringing people out to the festival and getting them 'hooked' so they come back. Imagine that somebody decided to come Friday night just to see and hear Stephen Wilson Jr. He's an alt-country rocker who, according to the program, "has been taking the - [Rainbow Kitten Surprise wins over 'old folkie' Larry Saidman on Day One of the Edmonton Folk Music Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/08/rainbow-kitten-surprise-wins-over-old-folkie-larry-saidman-on-day-one-of-the-edmonton-folk-music-festival/) - As I was sitting at the top of the Gallagher Park ski hill Thursday night watching the main stage of the Edmonton Folk Festival I thought of an old joke. "Nobody goes there anymore! It's too crowded." Well, this festival has been an important Edmonton August event for 54 years---and it keeps getting bigger. Over - [How the Dirty Catfish Brass Band plans to get the party started at Trout Forest](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/07/how-the-dirty-catfish-brass-band-plans-to-get-the-party-started-at-trout-forest/) - It was Saturday evening at the Folk Canada conference back in 2019. I was out in the hallway talking on the phone to my girlfriend after checking out the set by Beausejour, a collaboration between Danny Boudreau and Jocelyn Baribau. All of a sudden, the air was filled with the sounds of a boisterous brass - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/08/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-12/) - JOAN SHELLEY ANNOUNCES TORONTO-RECORDED ALBUM REAL WARMTH Acclaimed Kentucky-born singer/songwriter Joan Shelley has announced Real Warmth, the follow-up to her 2022 album The Spur, which will be released Sept. 19 on her longtime New York label No Quarter. The album's first single, "Everybody," is out now. Real Warmth is very much a Toronto project, produced - [Edmonton Folk Festival and Local Artists: The School of Song](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/06/edmonton-folk-festival-and-local-artists-the-school-of-song/) - As popular and beloved as the Edmonton Folk Festival is, there is one common criticism — and it’s one that applies to most large and well-established festivals. The concern, most often voiced by local musicians, is that there appears to be little room for top-quality local performers. The focus seems to be on “big names.” - [Aysanabee to Dominique: Voices That Stir the Soul](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/05/aysanabee-to-dominique-voices-that-stir-the-soul/) - As has been quite common in Canmore this summer, the day started off with blue skies and sunshine, then slowly the clouds built and skimmed over the mountain tops. So it was this morning as I headed to the workshop with Corb Lund, Nick Shoulders, Aysanabee and Mary Gauthier. According to the workshop description, “This - [The Winnipeg Invasion: 5 kick-ass Manitoba acts playing Trout Forest in Ear Falls, ON](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/07/the-winnipeg-invasion-5-kick-ass-manitoba-acts-playing-trout-forest-in-ear-falls-on/) - It may not sound as sexy as the British Invasion, but the Winnipeg Invasion is happening in Ear Falls, ON this weekend — and I, for one, am here for it. Like so many Canadian cities that are not Toronto, Winnipeg punches well above its weight class when it comes to producing killer musicians. And - [How Larry Saidman plans to spend his time at the Edmonton Folk Music Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/05/how-larry-saidman-plans-to-spend-his-time-at-the-edmonton-folk-music-festival/) - I should probably be embarrassed to admit that only one performer on this year's festival line-up —Taj Mahal—is someone I’ve seen live before at a folk festival. And there are only a handful whose names I even recognize. So this is a true adventure for me. I look forward to getting in touch with my - [Larry Saidman recalls the early days of folk fests in Edmonton](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/05/larry-saidman-recalls-the-early-days-of-folk-fests-in-edmonton/) - My addiction to folk festivals started in 1972—the year I got kicked out of the Mariposa Folk Festival. Okay, I exaggerate! It was only the performers’ hotel, as we had snuck in to interview performers for the University of Alberta student radio station. My friend Chris Mitchell and I were caught carrying our tape recorder - [Canmore Folk Festival Sunday: Julian Taylor, Shakura S'Aida and Corb Lund among the highlights](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/04/canmore-folk-festival-sunday-julian-taylor-shakura-saida-and-corb-lund-among-the-highlights/) - It was a cool night in the Bow valley. The storms had passed, and the festival site had dried out considerably over night. What were small streams and ponds had become wet tracks and big puddles. Rubber boots were the choice of footwear for many savvy festival goers. The festival staff had obviously done a - [Canmore Folk Fest: spellbinding music pouring from the speakers --- rain pouring from the sky](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/03/canmore-folk-fest-spellbinding-music-pouring-from-the-speakers-rain-pouring-from-the-sky/) - The Canmore Folk Fest got off to a hilarious start Friday evening with performances by Al Simmons, Side Hustle, Minihrpa and The Hearts. Al hails from Anola, MB. This Juno award winner and children’s entertainer had the crowd in stitches and the children enthralled with his prop antics and engaging songs. He is a seasoned - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/01/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-11/) - BILLY BRAGG: A PEOPLE'S HISTORY GETS NORTH AMERICAN DISTRIBUTION Earlier this year, British folk-rock icon Billy Bragg announced the October publication of his latest book, Billy Bragg: A People's History, in partnership with U.K. publishing house Spenwood Books. Bragg recently announced that the book now has North American distribution through Illinois-based Continental Sales Inc., and - [Check out Danny Michel's new space van art](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/31/check-out-danny-michels-new-space-van-art/) - Danny Michel the musician needs no introduction. A multiple Juno nominee and Polaris Prize finalist, he has brought forth such gems as “Don’t Be So Hard on Yourself” and “Purgatory Cove.” But Danny Michel the air brush artist is a new incarnation. It’s that version of Danny that made its debut this summer as he - [Why Daryl Wallace can't wait for the Canmore Folk Music Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/30/why-daryl-wallace-cant-wait-for-the-canmore-folk-music-festival/) - How lucky am I! I'm finally going to attend my first Canmore Folk Music Festival. I’ve wanted to experience this celebrated event for quite some time. Now in its 48th year, the festival is as old as the Vancouver Folk Music Festival. For a town of 17,000, that is a huge accomplishment. Canmore is a - [Toronto's Johnny 99 takes a mellow turn on latest single "Getting Over You"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/08/01/torontos-johnny-99-takes-a-mellow-turn-on-latest-single-getting-over-you/) - Johnny 99 continues his winning streak of 2025 singles with “Getting Over You,” a detour from Bakersfield to Laurel Canyon, showcasing his versatility as both a singer/songwriter and guitarist. The more mellow tones of “Getting Over You” contrast well with the hard core honky tonk of its predecessors “I Wanna Go With My Boots On” - [Celtic folksters Lo and the High Road release new single 'Lanterns in the Mist'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/28/celtic-folksters-lo-and-the-high-road-release-new-single-lanterns-in-the-mist/) - Folk group Lo & the High Road invite listeners into a twilight world of myth, music and magical ambiguity with their new single Lanterns in the Mist, out now. Weaving together Celtic instrumentation and modern folk storytelling, the track continues the ensemble’s tradition of grounding fantasy in emotional truth, set to a soundscape of bouzouki, - [Tim Harrison remembers Peter Verity](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/24/tim-harrison-remembers-peter-verity/) - Toronto-based singer-songwriter, musician and performer Peter Verity passed away on June 25 at the age of 75. Tim Harrison was a long-time friend of Peters and shares these memories. I was saddened last month to learn of the death of my friend and musical brother Peter Verity. I met Peter late in our lives as - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/25/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-10/) - GREAT LAKE SWIMMERS TO RELEASE CAUGHT LIGHT LP OCT. 10 Venerable Toronto folk collective Great Lake Swimmers will release their ninth studio album, Caught Light, on Oct. 10 via Harbour Songs Inc./Pheromone Recordings. The group had previously shared the single "One More Dance Around The Sun," and the album's title track can now be heard - [Singer-Songwriter Samantha Hooey Returns With "Red Skies" and EP 'Silver'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/27/singer-songwriter-samantha-hooey-returns-with-red-skies-and-ep-silver/) - Canadian singer-songwriter Samantha Hooey has emerged from a 12-year recording hiatus with a luminous, introspective new EP titled Silver, led by the radiant single “Red Skies.” A study in restraint, reverence and resilience, Silver is a collection of five soul-stirring songs that feel both timeless and startlingly present. With textures as gentle as moonlight and - [Banned & Outlawed Deliver Prairie Country Heat With New Single "Backyard Bar"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/26/banned-outlawed-deliver-prairie-country-heat-with-new-single-backyard-bar/) - Hazelridge, MB, country duo Banned & Outlawed — nominated for five Josie Music Awards, taking place Nov. 2, 2025, at the legendary Grand Ole Opry House in Nashville, TN — are igniting summer playlists with their latest release, “Backyard Bar,” now spinning on country radio and streaming across platforms. Known for their hard-working prairie roots - [Joe Ray McDonald arrives as vital new voice in Canadian alt-country with "First Rains of May"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/25/joe-ray-mcdonald-arrives-as-vital-new-voice-in-canadian-alt-country-with-first-rains-of-may/) - Like flowers on a finely tailored cowboy shirt, Joe Ray McDonald’s music effortlessly weaves together melody, emotion and precise flatpicking guitar. You can hear it all on “First Rains of May,” the first single from his sophomore album Cowboy Cake, due out later in 2025. Based in the Ottawa Valley, McDonald is a relatively new - [John Dawson Shares Reflective New Single "Take the Time" and Quietly Shines as One of Canada's Finest Singer-Songwriters](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/26/john-dawson-shares-reflective-new-single-take-the-time-and-quietly-shines-as-one-of-canadas-finest-singer-songwriters/) - From Newmarket, ON, songwriter and guitarist John Dawson releases his latest single, “Take the Time,” a beautifully reflective and emotionally grounded piece that reaffirms his place as one of Canada’s quietly brilliant voices in folk and roots music. With lyrical depth, warm arrangements and an honest vocal delivery, “Take the Time” reveals John’s rare ability - [Ottawa Bluesfest Day 8 & 9: The Festival Wraps Up Another Successful Year](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/22/ottawa-bluesfest-day-8-9-the-festival-wraps-up-another-successful-year/) - The last two days of Bluesfest were filled with exciting acts and special showcases. Saturday’s headliners attracted a similar demographic to the previous night, with 2000’s modern rock groups Papa Roach and Daughtry on the docket. Other acts that shined on Saturday were the likes of JW-Jones and Rubber Tire Peep Show. Canadian JW has - [The Rogue Folk Club's summer send-off this year is ... Ryan Young!](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/22/the-rogue-folk-clubs-summer-send-off-this-year-is-ryan-young/) - It's the week after the Vancouver Folk Music Festival, and you know what that means: The Rogue Folk Club has summer send-off show lined up. This year, it's Ryan Young, a multi-award-winning fiddle player who is injecting fresh and innovative ideas into the realm of traditional Scottish music and earning international acclaim for his captivating - [Last Night, Best Night: Folk, Blues and Rock Light Up the Main Stage](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/21/last-night-best-night-folk-blues-and-rock-light-up-the-main-stage/) - The main stage hosted a welcome from representatives of the S?wx?wú7mesh (Squamish) First Nation. The festival takes place on the traditional, ancestral and unceded territories of the x?m??k??y??m (Musqueam), s?wx?wú7mesh (Squamish), sel?íl?witulh (Tsleil-Waututh) and Coast Salish peoples. Watchhouse is an Americana/folk duo from North Carolina made up of songwriter Andrew Marlin and Emily Frantz. They - [Country Guitarist Chase Stevens Releases Nostalgic New Single "Songs In An Old Diner"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/24/country-guitarist-chase-stevens-releases-nostalgic-new-single-songs-in-an-old-diner/) - Mississauga-based troubadour Chase Stevens is back with “Songs In An Old Diner,” a feel-good country single soaked in nostalgia, memory and the magic of a melody. Recorded in both Nashville, TN, and Toronto, ON, the track is a spirited follow-up to 2024’s “As Good As It Gets,” and previews the sound and soul of Chase’s - [Cowessess First Nation Americana Artist (Uncle) Trent Agecoutay Releases Mesmerizing New Single "The Devil"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/23/cowessess-first-nation-americana-artist-uncle-trent-agecoutay-releases-mesmerizing-new-single-the-devil/) - Cowessess First Nation singer-songwriter (Uncle) Trent Agecoutay has unveiled his latest single, “The Devil,” a hypnotic and emotionally rich track that captures the haunting beauty of forbidden connection. Based in Calgary, AB, and raised in Red Deer, AB, Trent once again draws from his deep storytelling roots to deliver a song that echoes long after - [From Scotland to Morocco: A Global Groove on Day 2 of Vancouver Folk Fest](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/20/from-scotland-to-morocco-a-global-groove-on-day-2-of-vancouver-folk-fest/) - When Saturday comes, Day 2 of the 48th annual Vancouver Folk Music Festival dawns under a blanket of marine cloud. A fairly stiff breeze blows — good news for the heat-averse, bad news for the sun worshippers. As the day progresses, the sun comes out and burns away the cloud cover, giving us perfect weather: - [Bluesfest Day 7: Ottawa Loves Green Day- and Green Day Loves it Back](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/19/bluesfest-day-7-ottawa-loves-green-day-and-green-day-loves-it-back/) - It truly felt as though the entire city of Ottawa was at LeBreton Flats Park on Friday night to watch iconic band Green Day perform. Thousands of people gathered on the Bluesfest grounds to see the American rock group on what was by far the busiest day of the festival so far. People showed up - [From Tradition to Transformation: Inside the Vancouver Folk Music Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/19/from-tradition-to-transformation-inside-the-vancouver-folk-music-festival/) - The Vancouver Folk Music Festival has a different feel to it these days. It’s been changing in more recent times after years of stagnation and financial jeopardy. Once a totally dry event, not only can alcohol now be purchased on-site, but patrons are free to carry it around the site with them, enjoying it without - [From Montreal Brass to Japanese Punk: Friday Dispatch from VFMF](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/19/from-montreal-brass-to-japanese-punk-friday-dispatch-from-vfmf/) - I wonder sometimes how much thought goes into things like “managing first impressions” when planning an event like the Vancouver Folk Music Festival, because there are so many moving parts to pay attention to. Every artist has their availability, where they are coming from, when they arrive, how much time they need to prepare... Given - [Ottawa Bluesfest Day 6: Cool Temperatures, Hot Acts and a Visit from PM Carney](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/18/ottawa-bluesfest-day-6-cool-temperatures-hot-acts-and-a-visit-from-pm-carney/) - The second Thursday of Ottawa Bluesfest proved to be unlike any other day — with much cooler weather, a unique lineup of artists and an unexpected parliamentary attendee. After days of a sweltering heat wave, storm clouds rolled in hours before the festivities started, bringing a strong breeze and a drop in temperature. Instead of - [What Anthony Stonechild is looking forward to at the Vancouver Folk Music Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/17/dispatches-from-vancouver-folk-music-festival/) - The thing about living in Lotus Land here on the West Coast is that time dilates. A moment ago you had a couple of weeks — hell, even a month — to get ready. Then you wake from your bliss and realize that the thing you had circled on your calendar for so long is - [Ottawa Bluesfest Day 5: Rock Legends and Rising Stars](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/17/ottawa-bluesfest-day-5-rock-legends-and-rising-stars/) - The second week of Ottawa Bluesfest kicked off with a lineup featuring English rock and roll legends Def Leppard. It was a scene straight out of the 1980’s at LeBreton Flats park, with the masses dressed in animal print and distressed band tee shirts eager to see the glam rockers. Even before the headliners took - [Toronto's Nelson Sobral kicks out old school roots rock jams on latest album três!](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/18/torontos-nelson-sobral-kicks-out-old-school-roots-rock-jams-on-latest-album-tres/) - When you inject Americana with a hard-edged, urban blast of gritty Midwest blues, rock 'n' roll, and northern soul, it adopts an entirely new identity, one of overpasses, subway trains, and the grit of city streets. That’s also the sound of Toronto-based singer/songwriter and guitarist Nelson Sobral. On his third album, três!—the title a nod - [Day 3 at Winnipeg Folk Festival: Folk, Funk, Ska and Everything Between](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/16/day-3-at-winnipeg-folk-festival-folk-funk-ska-and-everything-between/) - Saturday morning brought clear blue skies and a gentle breeze that kept the smoke at bay, allowing the more vulnerable to return. Weather-wise, it was a perfect day for an outdoor festival. Up and at ‘em. Today had energy right from the start, beginning with the Beats Don’t Fail Me Now workshop featuring Beats Antique - [Day 4 of the Winnipeg Folk Festival: The Perfect Sunday Send-Off](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/16/day-4-of-the-winnipeg-folk-festival-the-perfect-sunday-send-off/) - Sunday is family day, when Daisy (my seven-year-old) attends. She is in her element because there is music, art and people everywhere. Normally, it’s a full day under the Chickadee Big Top, the family stage that is completely shaded and has arts, crafts and face painting at the far end. There are games and balls - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/18/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-9/) - JEFF TWEEDY ANNOUNCES 3-DISC SOLO ALBUM TWILIGHT OVERRIDE Wilco's head honcho Jeff Tweedy is returning to the solo life in a big way with a triple album entitled Twilight Override that will arrive September 26 via dBpm Records. Tweedy will be supporting the record with a world tour that lands in Toronto at The Concert - [Day 2 of Winnipeg Folk Festival: A Celebration of Growth, Connection and Song](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/16/day-2-of-winnipeg-folk-festival-a-celebration-of-growth-connection-and-song/) - As the clouds moved on, the smoke moved in. Manitobans awoke to a haze of wildfire smoke from Saskatchewan and northern Manitoba. The extreme air quality index kept a few people indoors and away from the festival. It was the small talk of the day, as it affected everyone’s eyes and throats to varying degrees. - [Day 1 at Winnipeg Folk Festival: Setting the Stage with Legends, Stars and Storms](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/15/day-1-at-winnipeg-folk-festival-setting-the-stage-with-legends-stars-and-storms/) - Three and a half days of musical revelry, followed by a a day of rest, recovery and reflection, finally yield the full impact of what most Winnipeg Folk Festival patrons (including this writer) consider the most important weekend of the year. Founder Mitch Podoluk’s vision of “People and Music” rather than a collection of concerts, - [Sultans Of String Feat. Donne Roberts Celebrate Freedom On UN International Day Of Hope](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/16/sultans-of-string-feat-donne-roberts-celebrate-freedom-on-un-international-day-of-hope/) - Sultans of String are sharing their song “I’m Free” from their Refuge project in conjunction with the UN International Day of Hope on July 12. “In a world facing growing unrest, widening social divisions, and persistent economic and environmental challenges, the global community continues to seek values that unite rather than divide. Among these, hope - [No Ordinary Day: Alan Doyle, Shania Twain and More at Ottawa Bluesfest Day 4](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/14/no-ordinary-day-alan-doyle-shania-twain-and-more-at-ottawa-bluesfest-day-4/) - On the first Sunday of Bluesfest, people of all ages gathered in LeBreton Flats Park to see Shania Twain close out the week. It truly was entertainment for the whole family as people donned Shania merchandise and cowboy boots to see the Canadian country-pop star. Starting off the evening at the River Stage, folk trio - [Ottawa Bluesfest Day 3: A Rockin' Good Time!](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/13/ottawa-bluesfest-day-3-a-rockin-good-time/) - The first Saturday of Ottawa Bluesfest celebrated artists old and new with performances by up-and-comers as well as established professionals. On the RBC Stage, it was a rock and roll-oriented lineup for the evening, including performances by Kurt Vile and the Violators, who mixed grunge rock influences with an indie folk sound. Following that, prolific - [10 Reasons to Catch the 2025 Vancouver Folk Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/14/10-reasons-to-catch-the-2025-vancouver-folk-festival/) - There are various steps involved in getting ready for any outdoor folk festival. At the very minimum, you need sun protection, hydration and head covering. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, then you need waterproof clothing, suitable footwear and a resolute attitude. Then there’s seating, sustenance and social arrangements; transportation, parking and ambulation. I’m sure most - [Brandon Isaak Releases 'Walkin' With The Blues' - A Raw, Soulful Journey into Classic Electric Blues](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/17/brandon-isaak-releases-walkin-with-the-blues-a-raw-soulful-journey-into-classic-electric-blues/) - Brandon Isaak, the Whitehorse-born bluesman known for his gravelly voice and deep respect for tradition, returns with Walkin’ With the Blues — his most authentic and electrified blues album to date. Recorded live off the floor with minimal mics, vintage gear and a soul soaked in the genre’s deepest roots, the record is a love - [Have your say in Roots Music Canada's direction. Fill in our new survey!](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/15/have-your-say-in-roots-music-canadas-direction-fill-in-our-new-survey/) - Roots Music Canada has launched a brand new reader survey, and we're hoping you'll take a few minutes to answer it below When we relaunched in 2018, our goal was to help solve a single problem facing the Canadian roots scene: the steep decline in mainstream media coverage for niche genres of music like ours - [Ottawa Bluesfest Day Two Brings Big Performances and Strong Songwriting](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/12/ottawa-bluesfest-day-two-brings-big-performances-and-strong-songwriting/) - It was another scorching hot day at Bluesfest on Friday, accompanied by performances from some great Canadian storytellers. Vivid and thought-provoking lyrics were the theme among all the artists’ sets on Day 2, each with a profound ability to transport the audience to other worlds through song. Bilingual artist Kristine St-Pierre painted colourful pictures of - [Ottawa Bluesfest Opens With Boots, Blues and Blistering Heat](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/11/ottawa-bluesfest-opens-with-boots-blues-and-blistering-heat/) - LeBreton Flats Park was a sea of cowboy hats and boots as country, folk and blues fans alike gathered for the first day of Ottawa Bluesfest. The opening day of the festival featured a country-oriented lineup, with the night culminating in a performance by American country artist Lainey Wilson. Earlier in the evening, Garnetta Cromwell - [Drea Lake releases "4U," first preview of upcoming full-length album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/11/drea-lake-releases-4u-first-preview-of-upcoming-full-length-album/) - After sharing a handful of singles over the past several years, Canadian singer/songwriter Drea Lake is preparing to show off her full range on a debut full-length album, A Call From Somewhere Else, set for release in autumn 2025. The first preview, "4U," is out now, a song that displays Drea's distinctive approach to her - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/11/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-8/) - NEKO CASE ANNOUNCES NEW ALBUM NEON GREY MIDNIGHT GREEN After receiving accolades for her memoir The Harder I Fight, The More I Love You, Neko Case is releasing her first new music in seven years. The 12-track Neon Grey Midnight Green is out Sept. 26 via ANTI- Records, with the first single "Wreck" available now - [Ottawa Bluesfest: Blues in the Schools Spotlights the Next Generation](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/08/ottawa-bluesfest-blues-in-the-schools-spotlights-the-next-generation/) - The 31st Ottawa Bluesfest kicks off this Thursday at LeBreton Flats Park. The famous annual festival in the Nation’s capital region spans 10 days, boasting a diverse lineup of rock, country, folk, blues and pop acts. Since the very first Bluesfest in 1994, the event has been a not-for-profit and charitable endeavour. According the Ottawa - [Kristin Nicholls Band Return with Country Anthem “One More Round”](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/12/kristin-nicholls-band-return-with-country-anthem-one-more-round/) - With a cold drink in one hand and a lifetime of stories in the other, the Kristin Nicholls Band are ready to raise the roof — and your spirits — with their latest country anthem, “One More Round.” Out now at country radio and streaming everywhere, the track is a full-throttle, feel-good call to the - [Review of Founding Folk: An Oral History of the Winnipeg Folk Festival by Kevin Nikkel and When We Became Folk Fest by Kevin Nikkel and Dave Barber](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/09/review-of-founding-folk-an-oral-history-of-the-winnipeg-folk-festival-by-kevin-nikkel-and-when-we-became-folk-fest-by-kevin-nikkel-and-dave-barber/) - This year marks the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Winnipeg Folk Festival, and two projects have been completed that beautifully celebrate and honour what has become one of the signature folk music events not only in Canada but across North America. A book titled Founding Folk: An Oral History of the Winnipeg Folk - [Francis Baptiste on Embracing Collaboration and Community](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/08/francis-baptiste-on-embracing-collaboration-and-community/) - Community and collaboration influence my music so much these days. As a solo artist, the band around me is constantly changing and shifting. Everyone I work with—on stage or in the studio—is a session player. Unlike bands, which tend to have a somewhat fixed roster, my collaborators are always different, depending on their availability. Different - [Folkus Plaidus: A Field Guide](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/10/folkus-plaidus-a-field-guide/) - The male Canadian folk singer (Folkus plaidus) is a migratory species that roams small halls, open stages, farmers markets and free fundraisers. He smells of incense and regret. He subsists mainly on fair trade coffee—made using his AeroPress—and bagels and hard-boiled eggs smuggled from the breakfast nook of the Super 8. The male Canadian folk - [Folk, Family and Fire: Mariposa’s 65th Lights a Spark](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/07/folk-family-and-fire-mariposas-65th-lights-a-spark/) - It’s worth noting that 2025 is a milestone birthday for Mariposa: 65 years young, but still always busy being born, providing a platform for novice, rising and mid-level acts along with well-established favourites. We always enjoy discovering new-to-us artists here—like Willi Carlisle, Jordan Smart and Basset—and getting to catch up with friends like Paul and - [Mariposa Moments: Music, Memories, and Community](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/07/mariposa-moments-music-memories-and-community/) - I started the day off with Lance Anderson’s Gospel Tent Revival to get some spirit coursing through me. I took blues piano lessons with Lance about 20 years ago, and this guy just keeps getting better and better. Matt Weidenger and Lance spelled off between organ and keys and brought the house down with their - [Mariposa’s Saturday Delivers Depth, Downpours and Delight](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/06/mariposas-saturday-delivers-depth-downpours-and-delight/) - The On the Road Again workshop, though it didn’t really stick to the topic at hand, was a truly fantastic experience, combining the impressive collective skills of Ron Sexsmith, Matt the Electrician (aka Matt Sever), Bob Snider and Willi Carlisle. Ron, playing a loaner guitar because his was in the shop, started off with a - [Sing-Alongs, Storms and Standouts: Mariposa Music Festival Dispatch with Zarah](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/06/sing-alongs-storms-and-standouts-mariposa-music-festival-dispatch-with-zarah/) - I'm officially pooped. Pleasantly pooped. My cup is full, and even though I'm tired, I'm inspired to sit at my piano and write, based on all the amazingness I saw today. The morning began at the Barnfield Stage, where I caught an early set by Evan Rotella. Hailing from Niagara Falls, this kid (more or - [Friday night at the Mariposa Folk Festival - Zarah's take](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/05/friday-night-at-the-mariposa-folk-festival-zarahs-take/) - Wowzers. Off to a fabulous start! I arrived at Tudhope Park, the home of the Mariposa Festival, just before dinner. I can't believe they're celebrating 65 years! My dad told me today that he and his pal George attended the first one in 1961. I love that I'm able to carry on the tradition — - [Mariposa 2025 – Friday July 4th](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/05/mariposa-2025-friday-july-4th/) - We stayed at the Gordon Lightfoot mainstage all night, and caught an engaging set from Australian band The Paper Kites, who I’d never heard of until tonight – despite the fact that they’ve released six studio albums and two EPs, and had a Platinum U.S. single in 2010, called “Bloom.” Led by lead singer and - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/04/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-7/) - GILLIAN WELCH AND DAVID RAWLINGS PERFORM NPR TINY DESK CONCERT As they prepare for an appearance at the Winnipeg Folk Festival on July 10, Gillian Welch and David Rawlings stopped by NPR's headquarters in Washington D.C. to perform one of the station's famous Tiny Desk Concerts. You can watch the full four-song set below, featuring - [Justine Giles shares hard earned lessons on cinematic new single "Past Life"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/04/justine-giles-shares-hard-earned-lessons-on-cinematic-new-single-past-life/) - On her new single “Past Life,” Justine Giles continues to explore personal growth and healing through her songwriting. The track poured out of her following an unexpected encounter with an acquaintance with whom she’d had a complicated history, prompting Justine to reflect on how we often remain connected to such people, whether we want - [Downchild’s Donnie Walsh named to the Order of Canada for outstanding contributions to Canadian music and culture](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/03/downchilds-donnie-walsh-named-to-the-order-of-canada-for-outstanding-contributions-to-canadian-music-and-culture/) - The Governor General of Canada has appointed Donnie “Mr. Downchild” Walsh to the Order of Canada, recognizing more than five decades of extraordinary contributions to Canadian music and culture. The honour—the nation’s highest civilian recognition—celebrates Donnie’s lifetime of dedication to the blues and his role in shaping Canada’s musical legacy. Founded in 1967, the Order - [Album review – Basia’s Palace – Basia Bulat](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/03/album-review-basias-palace-basia-bulat/) - As I prepare to head to Mariposa this coming weekend, I thought I’d get reacquainted with some of the artists and listen to a few albums to get psyched. Since leaving Canada many years ago and settling in Latin America, I’ve been somewhat out of touch with what’s happening in the Canadian folk scene—particularly with - [Harmonica wizard Mike Stevens has received the Order of Canada](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/01/harmonica-wizard-mike-stevens-has-received-the-order-of-canada/) - Canadian harmonica wizard Mike Stevens has received the Order of Canada. Governor General Mary Simon made the announcement Monday, the day before Canada Day. "Mike Stevens is a virtuoso harmonica player, composer and author," the citation reads. "For more than 40 years, he has entertained audiences nationally and abroad and won acclaim at the world-famous - [Mariposa Preview: Ron Sexsmith](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/07/02/mariposa-preview-ron-sexsmith/) - During last year’s sold-out “Sexsmith at Sixty” concert at Toronto’s storied Massey Hall, Ron Sexsmith unintentionally staked his claim as the true heir to Gordon Lightfoot’s status as Canada’s singer-songwriter laureate-in-chief. With his unique and engaging voice, ace backing band, and a repertoire of impeccably great song after song – “Hard Bargain,” “Former Glory,” “Strawberry - [Mariposa Preview: Bob Snider](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/30/mariposa-preview-bob-snider/) - One of Toronto’s most beloved folksingers is returning to the stage for two performances only, after an absence of more than a decade: Bob Snider is playing the 2025 Mariposa Folk Festival. A Torontonian by birth and a Nova Scotian by choice, Bob is driving from the house he built—literally—in Bear River, NS, to Orillia - [Aeolian Hall launches local lunchtime concert series](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/30/aeolian-hall-launches-local-lunchtime-concert-series/) - The Aeolian Hall Musical Arts Association has teamed up with the London Music Office to present a lunchtime concert series this summer. TUNES@NOON will run for eight Tuesdays in July and August, starting July 8, with a different local musician each week in the Southen Lounge. “We are thrilled to work with the London Music - [Ian James Bain shares "Devil Dance" from upcoming solo EP At Your Service](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/27/ian-james-bain-shares-devil-dance-from-upcoming-solo-ep-at-your-service/) - Following the singles "Come & Gone" and "Church On A Hill," Ian James Bain is today sharing "Devil Dance," the last preview of his new EP At Your Service, set for release on July 18 via ArtHaus Music. On At Your Service, Ian James Bain is ready to make his mark on the international Americana - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/27/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-6/) - SARAH MCLACHLAN ANNOUNCES NEW ALBUM BETTER BROKEN Canadian Music Hall of Famer Sarah McLachlan is poised to make a major comeback, having announced Better Broken, her first all-original album since 2014's Shine On. Better Broken will be released Sept. 19 via Concord Records, with the title track available now as a single. The album features - [Francis Baptiste Trades Heartache For A Hangover On Raw, Soulful New Single “Aspirin for the Soul” + Announces Tour Dates](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/25/francis-baptiste-trades-heartache-for-a-hangover-on-raw-soulful-new-single-aspirin-for-the-soul-announces-tour-dates/) - There ain’t no Aspirin for your soul. But Francis Baptiste has a song that comes close. The Vancouver-based Indigenous singer-songwriter returns with “Aspirin for the Soul,” a searing folk-rock confession about pain, healing and the bruised beauty of survival. Born and raised on the Osoyoos Indian Band Reservation in Oliver, B.C., Francis has spent the - [Julian Taylors new single + video 'Dedication' out now](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/26/julian-taylors-new-single-video-dedication-out-now/) - Award-winning, Toronto-based singer-songwriter Julian Taylor released a new single, “Dedication,” on Friday, June 6, 2025 (Howling Turtle Inc.). “Dedication,” the first single from Julian’s forthcoming album Anthology II (Sept. 10), is out now on all major platforms. The official video is available on YouTube. For more information, please visit any of the links below or - [Tyler Ellis releases new album Down by the Don](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/24/tyler-ellis-releases-new-album-down-by-the-don/) - Award-winning singer-songwriter and master storyteller Tyler Ellis once again shares his unique, inviting style to bring his stories to life on his eighth album, Down by the Don. The 14-song album was released on all major platforms on June 12. For more information, please visit any of the artist links below and Tyler's website. On - [Interview with Cassie and Maggie MacDonald on their new album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/28/interview-with-cassie-and-maggie-macdonald-on-their-new-album/) - The new album from the Nova Scotia duo Cassie and Maggie MacDonald, Gold And Coal, is a reflection of the two sides of their music. “Coal” represents the traditional music foundation they grew up with, while “Gold” shows off the original music they’ve built upon that foundation. “Being surrounded by music” is a common expression - [Check out Twin Flames' gorgeous new single, 'Battlefields'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2020/07/14/check-out-twin-flames-gorgeous-new-single-battlefields/) - Chart-topping Indigenous folk artists Twin Flames are back, this time with their highly anticipated new single, “Battlefields.” The husband-and-wife duo of Métis singer Chelsey June from Ottawa, and Mohawk artist Jaaji, Inuk from Nunavik is long celebrated for its sonic landscapes spanning Canada and the Arctic and honouring its ancestors through songs in English, Inuttitut - [Twin Flames have completed and released their new album, Omen, during COVID](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2020/09/14/twin-flames-have-completed-and-released-their-new-album-omen-during-covid/) - Multi-award-winning Indigenous folk duo Twin Flames has released its highly anticipated new album, Omen. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZiE8ZtBMfro The husband and wife duo of Chelsey June, who is Métis (Algonquin Cree), from Ottawa, and Jaaji, who is Inuk and Mohawk, from Nunavik, is long celebrated for its sonic landscapes spanning Canada and the Arctic and honouring the members' - [Steve Marriner releases Hear My Heart album + announces Canadian tour dates](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/23/steve-marriner-releases-hear-my-heart-album-announces-canadian-tour-dates/) - Acclaimed Canadian blues artist Steve Marriner is back with the new single “Straight Line,” the third release from his solo album Hear My Heart, out now via Cordova Bay Records. It follows the swaggering success of his earlier singles — a blues-soaked reinvention of Genesis’s “I Can’t Dance” and “I Don’t Know What To Say.” - [David Myles reflects on the reaction to his last album before being elected to Parliament](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/21/david-myles-reflects-on-the-reaction-to-his-last-album-before-being-elected-to-parliament/) - During the recent federal election, the Liberal candidate in the New Brunswick riding of Fredericton–Oromocto was Juno Award-winning singer-songwriter David Myles. After a decisive win that night, David said his first priority was the Liberal housing plan. Back in February, before the election was called, the priority for David was his latest album, Devil Talking. - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/20/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-5/) - TYLER CHILDERS ANNOUNCES JULY 25 RELEASE OF SNIPE HUNTER Following his five Grammy nominations last year for the album Rustin' In The Rain, Americana artist Tyler Childers is set to release its follow-up, Snipe Hunter, on July 25 via RCA. The album was produced by Rick Rubin, and so far the only preview is the - [The Original Sloth Band celebrates its 60th anniversary tonight at Hugh's Room Live](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/20/the-original-sloth-band-celebrates-its-60th-anniversary-tonight-at-hughs-room-live/) - The band that launched the careers of no less than Ken and Chris Whiteley will celebrate its 60th anniversary tonight with a show at Hugh's Room Live in Toronto. The Original Sloth Band started out as Ken, Chris and Tom Evans and played a mix of jug band, swing, blues and novelty songs, mostly from - [Exclusive preview: Mike McKenna Jr. - 'Grassfire' video](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/19/exclusive-preview-mike-mckenna-jr-grassfire-video/) - Singer-songwriter Mike McKenna Jr. is about to unveil the official video for “Grassfire,” the heartfelt single off his latest full-length album Smokey Mountain High (released November 1, 2024). And we're stoked to premiere it here on Roots Music Canada ahead of tomorrow's release. Directed by Halifax-based filmmaker Brendan “Moose” Lyle (aka @moosecanfly), the video is - [Montreal folk guitarist Brian Campbell releases 'I Saw You Going Out Today' ...tomorrow!](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/18/montreal-folk-guitarist-brian-campbell-releases-i-saw-you-going-out-today-tomorrow/) - Montreal-based contemporary folk artist Brian Campbell continues his string of poetic, emotionally resonant releases with “I Saw You Going Out Today,” out now. Known for his deft fingerstyle guitar, intimate lyricism, and storyteller’s charm, Brian delivers a song that feels both timeless and immediate—rooted in the traditions of classic singer-songwriters yet bearing the sensitivity of - [Here are your folk, roots and world music Western Canadian Music Award nominees](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/17/here-are-your-folk-roots-and-world-music-western-canadian-music-award-nominees/) - Holy talent in western Canada these days! The Western Canadian Music Awards nominees have just been announced and the list is overflowing with folk, roots and world artists even in the larger categories like artist and recording of the year. And look at that Indigenous category! Celeigh Cardinal, Wyatt C. Louis and Shawnee Kish up - [Festival recap: Saturday at the Springtide Festival in Uxbridge, ON](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/16/festival-recap-saturday-at-the-springtide-festival-in-uxbridge-on/) - The weather was glorious for the whole weekend and so the Second Wedge outdoor stage was our first stop where Toronto artist Päter captivated the audience. Arriving with no expectations, we were pleasantly surprised by the band’s ‘90s-style power-pop/rock, which highlighted their sugary melodies, crunchy guitars, fine harmonies and a post-grunge sense of loud/soft dynamics. - [Aynsley Saxe unveils new single 'Stranger to Myself' ahead of summer shows and fall album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/14/aynsley-saxe-unveils-new-single-stranger-to-myself-ahead-of-summer-shows-and-fall-album/) - Aynsley Saxe’s music carries the warmth of home and the weight of change. With the release of her acoustic folk single “Stranger to Myself” on June 6, the Georgetown, ON-based singer-songwriter invites listeners into a quiet, intimate world shaped by heartbreak, resilience, and emotional clarity. The track is the first release from her upcoming sophomore - [Festival recap: Friday at the Springtide Festival in Uxbridge, ON](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/15/festival-recap-friday-at-the-springtide-festival-in-uxbridge-on/) - After attending for the first time last year, it was wonderful to be in Uxbridge again for the sixth annual Springtide Festival. First up, we caught a full set of The East Pointers at the Second Wedge Outdoor Stage. Hailing from PEI, they played boisterous, high-spirited singalongs, clap-alongs, and music to dance to – getting - [Why Canada is practically a second home for Australian artist Kim Churchill](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/14/why-canada-is-practically-a-second-home-for-australian-artist-kim-churchill/) - Australian singer-songwriter Kim Churchill has a special affection for Canada and Canadians. About 15 years ago at the Folk Alliance conference in Memphis, he kept running into and making friendships with Canadians. As a result, Kim was able to put together a tour of Canada. “I was 19 years old, and I just wanted to - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/13/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-4/) - RON SEXSMITH TO RELEASE HANGOVER TERRACE ON AUG. 29 After celebrating his 60th birthday last year, beloved Canadian singer-songwriter Ron Sexsmith shows no signs of slowing down. He will release his latest album, Hangover Terrace on Aug. 29 via Pheromone Records in Canada and Cooking Vinyl worldwide. Fans can get a preview with the first - [Why Bev Kreller is excited to be heading to the Springtide Festival in Uxbridge later today](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/12/why-bev-kreller-is-excited-to-be-heading-to-the-springtide-festival-in-uxbridge-later-today/) - The 2025 edition of the Springtide Music Festival, running this Thursday through Saturday (June 12-14), is boasting a lineup that has me itching to listen. I’m looking forward to stage-hopping at Springtide (kudos to director Tania Joy and team for organizing another great lineup), and seeing groovemaster funk bassist Jerome Tucker and his band; the - [Justin Orok’s California Shutters CD Launch Tuesday 3 June at the Tranzac](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/11/justin-oroks-california-shutters-cd-launch-tuesday-3-june-at-the-tranzac/) - It began just as a superstition, when I was a six-days-on-the-road musician: when the waxing moon would grin at us in the windshield on the way to the gig, I would say, “well it’s going to be a good night, there’s the half moon.” You might want to research this for yourself, but for me, - [Banned & Outlawed delivers a blistering new country anthem with 'People Talk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/12/banned-outlawed-delivers-a-blistering-new-country-anthem-with-people-talk/) - When Jon and Daniel Hnatishin pick up their instruments, it’s not just country music they’re playing — it’s a way of life. Straight out of Hazelridge, MB, Banned & Outlawed embody the spirit of small towns, hard work, and louder-than-life honesty. Their new single “People Talk,” produced by Chris Burke Gaffney, is a rowdy, razor-sharp - [Kele Fleming's 'The Nite the Stars Fell (For Kurt Cobain)' features Art Bergmann](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/11/kele-flemings-the-nite-the-stars-fell-for-kurt-cobain-features-art-bergmann/) - Vancouver-based alt-folk artist Kele Fleming has never shied away from truth. Her songs are protest anthems. They are hymns for the haunted. They are postcards from the edge, sent in the voice of someone who made it back. Her latest single, “The Nite The Stars Fell (For Kurt Cobain),” might be her most personal yet. - [Folk Alliance hosts free, by-donation online conference next week](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/10/folk-alliance-hosts-free-by-donation-online-conference-next-week/) - A lot of Canadians have sworn off traveling to the U.S. these days, but Folk Alliance International is holding an event next week that we can attend without leaving our living rooms. They're calling it Folk+, and it's got the educational and networking components of the annual FAI conferences, minus the part where we don't - [The Tennessee Cree pays homage to Johnny Cash on 'Hellbound Train'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/10/the-tennessee-cree-pays-homage-to-johnny-cash-on-hellbound-train/) - Some songs arrive like a whisper. Others hit like a runaway locomotive. On his blistering new single “Hellbound Train,” Indigenous singer-songwriter The Tennessee Cree (aka Kevin Schofield) delivers a wild, soul-scorching ride straight from the heart of Canadian roots music. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OYcBgUWx88c It’s a song that sounds like it could have been found on an unreleased - [The Chat Room: Mike Boguski](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/05/the-chat-room-mike-boguski/) - For the past several years, Blue Rodeo keyboardist Mike Boguski has been exploring a range of sonic avenues with some of Toronto’s finest musicians and producers. The results of the majority of these sessions have been released as digital singles, and Mike has now compiled these tracks into a six-song album entitled Here’s to Tomorrow - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/06/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-3/) - BLUE RODEO MARK 4OTH ANNIVERSARY WITH CROSS-CANADA TOUR This year marks the 40th anniversary of Blue Rodeo's first live performance at The Rivoli in Toronto, and from that starting point it's safe to say they have played more places within Canada than any other band. In recognition of that milestone, Blue Rodeo has announced a - [Ethereal Danish-Canadian artist ABØN (Lauren Pedersen) releases Wings of Adelaine](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/05/ethereal-danish-canadian-artist-abon-lauren-pedersen-releases-winds-of-adelaine/) - Edmonton-based, Danish-Canadian singer, songwriter, producer and composer, Abøn (Lauren Pedersen) releases her new album, Wings of Adelaine, out on Flatcar Records / Fontana North tomorrow. The album is 10 tracks of orchestral music layered with angelic vocals, transporting listeners to faraway places. Wings of Adelaine will be available on all major platforms, with an accompanying - [Joe Cool releases 'Company Man' from new EP Blood Sweat and Beers](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/09/joe-cool-releases-company-man-from-new-ep-blood-sweat-and-beers/) - Toronto folk-rocker Joe Cool is back, calloused hands and all, with the lead single from his third EP, Blood, Sweat & Beers. The track, “Company Man,” is a blue-collar anthem for anyone who’s ever punched a clock, buried their dreams for a steady paycheque, and tried to keep their head above water in a world - [How Tim Isberg gigged during his tour in Afghanistan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/07/how-tim-isberg-gigged-during-his-tour-in-afghanistan/) - Throughout his 30-plus year career in the military, music has always been a part of Tim Isberg’s life. Whether he was deployed to the Middle East or in Afghanistan, Tim was able to connect with his fellow soldiers through music. During his last tour in Afghanistan, he was part of a band that performed for - [Sonic storytellers PIQSIQ channel Inuit mythology on new album Legends](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/06/sonic-storytellers-piqsiq-channel-inuit-mythology-on-new-album-legends/) - The acclaimed Inuit throat singing duo PIQSIQ (pronounced “pilk-silk”), comprised of sisters Tiffany Ayalik and Inuksuk Mackay, has never shied away from grand concepts and innovative ideas. On their 2021 album Live From Christ Church Cathedral, their choice of recording venue symbolized a cultural reclamation in response to how churches, in collaboration with the Canadian - [Folk Alliance International makes funding appeal after Trump admin cuts NEA](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/05/folk-alliance-international-makes-funding-appeal-after-trump-admin-cuts-nea/) - The executive director of Folk Alliance International says the organization needs to raise approximately $70,000 by June 30 or it risks losing its power to effectively service artists and the industry. The sudden budget shortfall was largely brought on by the loss of FAI's $50,000 grant from the National Endowment for the Arts, part of - [Lennie Gallant releases his first English-language album in 7 years on Friday](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/04/lennie-gallant-releases-his-first-english-language-album-in-7-years-on-friday/) - East Coast musical icon and masterful storyteller Lennie Gallant releases his first English-language album in seven years on Friday. Shelter From the Storms is Lennie's 16th album to date. The accompanying lyric video for the first single “Counting on Angels” is available on YouTube. “Counting on Angels,” which opens the album, sometimes seems the only - [Home County Music and Art Festival announces inaugural title sponsor](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/04/home-county-music-and-art-festival-announces-inaugural-title-sponsor/) - After hitting the “pause” button on the Home County Music and Art Festival last year due to financial uncertainty, London’s Home County Folk League is bringing it back in 2025, and this week, it revealed part of the reason it was able to carry on. It announced its first ever title sponsor. But it’s not - [Katie Ditschun blooms with emotion on 'In Your Arms' from 'There Will Be Flowers EP](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/03/katie-ditschun-blooms-with-emotion-on-in-your-arms-from-there-will-be-flowers-ep/) - With her heartfelt voice, tender lyrics, and a crystal-clear musical presence that echoes the spirit of Carole King and Sarah McLachlan, Alexandria, ON singer-songwriter Katie Ditschun returns with “In Your Arms,” the lead single from her EP There Will Be Flowers — both out now. https://youtu.be/exx5WcIwnBM A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Katie is - [Bowen Island finally gets its own performing arts theatre](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/06/02/bowen-island-finally-gets-its-own-performing-arts-theatre/) - The community of Bowen Island, about 20 minutes by ferry from West Vancouver, finally has its own performing arts theatre. The Bowen Theatre opened April 11 with a pair of concerts by BTU, the trio of Barny Bental, Tom Taylor and Shari Ulrich. “It was very moving,” said Shari, who has lived on the island - [4 June shows at the Rogue Folk Club to help get us to festival season](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/31/4-june-shows-at-the-rogue-folk-club-to-help-get-us-to-festival-season/) - Festival season is almost upon us, but the Rogue Folk Club is not going to make us sit through a gap in the musical action until it officially kicks off. The Rogue has four shows coming up in July, and they are bangers, including the 25th anniversary show for Mary Gauthier's debut album. For more - [Roots Round Up: this week’s news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/30/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond-2/) - SKYDIGGERS ARE BACK WITH DREAMS & SECOND CHANCES Beloved Canadian band Skydiggers recently released Dreams & Second Chances -- their 15th full-length original album -- and have been back on the road this month playing select dates in support of it. On Saturday, May 31, they perform in Toronto at The Concert Hall, before heading - [Freightliner explain their work/life balance on latest single 'Up All Night'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/30/freightliner-explain-their-work-life-balance-on-latest-single-up-all-night/) - The word “authentic” gets tossed around a lot these days when discussing new music, and on Freightliner’s new single “Up All Night,” the Canadian roots rockers make it clear how they manage to work hard and play hard in equal measure. The instantly catchy, hard driving track recalls the glorious sound of early alt-country, when - [Toronto's Tranzac launches community-building monthly club night](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/29/torontos-tranzac-launches-community-building-monthly-club-night/) - Toronto's Tranzac has launched a new initiative aimed at nothing short of revitalizing its community and preventing social chaos. OK, they don't quite articulate it that way, but Club Nights, which kicked off on Monday, are somewhat inspired by the documentary Join or Die, a film that explores Robert Putnam's "Bowling Alone" theory of how - [Aurora Cultural Centre to launch 2025-2026 entertainment season](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/28/aurora-cultural-centre-to-launch-2025-2026-entertainment-season/) - The Aurora Cultural Centre will launch its 2025-2026 season on June 26. The event kicks off at 7:30 at the Davide de Simone Performance Hall. It includes light refreshments, sweet treats and a drink from the bar. - [Lookout Tower releases new single 'Valley Song'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/27/lookout-tower-releases-new-single-valley-song/) - From the misty hills of Cape Breton Island comes a song as timeless and yearning as the land itself. Genre-defying band Lookout Tower has officially released its new single, "Valley Song." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r43EnbL8vB4 Written during the heart of a Cape Breton winter, "Valley Song" captures the delicate tension between clinging to lost love and embracing the - [Raina Krangle reimagines Joni Mitchell's 'Big Yellow Taxi'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/26/raina-krangle-reimagines-joni-mitchells-big-yellow-taxi/) - “You don’t know what you’ve got ‘til it’s gone.” More than 50 years since Joni Mitchell first sang those words, singer-songwriter Raina Krangle breathes new life into them with her vibrant, acoustic-driven cover of "Big Yellow Taxi," out now. Blending her signature fresh folk style with a stripped-down authenticity true to Joni’s spirit, Raina’s version - [How Daniel Lapp's life has led him to this: a new B.C. fiddle music record label](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/24/how-daniel-lapps-life-has-led-him-to-this-a-new-b-c-fiddle-music-record-label/) - Sometimes the task of being an interviewer can get pretty complicated. My brief was to talk to a Doctor of Music, a record label owner, a fiddler, a teacher, a mentor, a solo artist, a sideman, a singer, a writer, a jazz musician, a trumpeter and a B.C. fiddle tune collector. Luckily for me, I - [Guitar hero Graham Brown cranks it up again on new full band album Outside Within](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/23/guitar-hero-graham-brown-cranks-it-up-again-on-new-full-band-album-outside-within/) - Although it’s common for artists to improve with age, it’s rare when they do it in a manner that seems to turn back the hands of time. That’s precisely the feeling one gets when listening to Outside Within, the 14th album by Canadian singer/songwriter/guitarist Graham Brown. Working once again with his longtime electric band—guitarist/keyboardist Rob - [Roots Round Up: this week's news from the Canadian roots scene (and beyond)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/23/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene-and-beyond/) - BRUCE SPRINGSTEEN RELEASES SURPRISE LIVE EP On May 14, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band kicked off their Land of Hope & Dreams Tour in Manchester, England, and from The Boss's opening remarks, he made his current mindset clear. "In my home, the America I love, the America I’ve written about, and has been - [Algoma University pauses music program admissions amid loss of international students](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/20/algoma-university-cuts-its-music-program-amid-loss-of-international-student-enrollment/) - It's no secret that post-secondary institutions are struggling in Ontario after facing tuition freezes and funding shortages under the Ford government only to then face reductions in the one thing they'd be using to make up for those shortfalls: international student enrollment. Since the beginning of the year, colleges and universities have been announcing the - ['Katajjaq Will Never Be Silenced': Silla's dual singles reclaim Inuit sonic sovereignty](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/21/katajjaq-will-never-be-silenced-sillas-dual-singles-reclaim-inuit-sonic-sovereignty/) - What does it sound like when the ancestors sing back? Acclaimed Inuit throat-singing duo Silla returns with two powerful singles — “Kaukuarjuk” and “The Great Angakkuq (feat. Kevin Qamaniq-Mason)” — that reach across generations and genres to embody Indigenous resurgence, kinship, and sonic evolution. https://youtu.be/ej83CSzYyuY?feature=shared Comprised of Charlotte Qamaniq (Iglulik) and Cynthia Pitsiulak (Kimmirut), Silla - [Séan McCann announces The Great Big Canadian Road Trip: One Man. One Guitar, One Country](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/17/sean-mccann-announces-the-great-big-canadian-road-trip-one-man-one-guitar-one-country/) - Séan McCann, the beloved Canadian troubadour and Order of Canada recipient best known as a founding member of Great Big Sea, is hitting the road for a different kind of tour in 2025—a tour not about charts, fame, or the “American dream,” but about connection, community, and commitment to country. Literally. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cHWcf2ZQgws In the wake - [Roots Round Up: this week's news from the Canadian roots scene](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/16/roots-round-up-this-weeks-news-from-the-canadian-roots-scene/) - NEIL YOUNG SET TO RETURN JUNE 13 WITH TALKIN TO THE TREES, FIRST ALBUM WITH NEW BAND THE CHROME HEARTS After his tour last year with Crazy Horse came to an abrupt end due to band members' health issues, Neil Young has rebounded with a new outfit dubbed The Chrome Hearts, featuring Michah Nelson on - [Ian James Bain shares 'Church on a Hill' from upcoming alt-country EP At Your Service](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/16/ian-james-bain-shares-church-on-a-hill-from-upcoming-alt-country-ep-at-your-service/) - On his upcoming EP, At Your Service, Ian James Bain is ready to make his mark within the current crop of young singer-songwriters carrying on the tradition of their honky tonk heroes. He’s already got plenty of experience in that field, serving as touring guitarist with Jeremie Albino, and as a core member of Nicolette - [Tom Wilson's New Exhibition 'Blood Memory' to Open at Hamilton's Beckett Fine Art in June 2025](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/14/tom-wilsons-new-exhibition-blood-memory-to-open-at-hamiltons-beckett-fine-art-in-june-2025/) - Tom Wilson has never been one to stay in a single lane. He is a Juno Award-winning musician, a bestselling author, a playwright, a member of the Order of Canada, and an advocate for Indigenous visibility. He is also, without question, one of Canada’s most powerful visual artists. His latest solo exhibition, Blood Memory, opens - [Ryan Wayne follows up Crow Amongst the Sparrows with Functioning Dysfunctionals](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/13/ryan-wayne-follows-up-crow-amongst-the-sparrows-with-functioning-dysfunctionals/) - Accomplished Americana/roots-rock singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Ryan Wayne released his sophomore album, Functioning Dysfunctionals, on Friday. After a decade away from the music business, Ryan suffered two strokes, inspiring a return to recording music. This is his second full length release, following on the heels of his widely acclaimed 2023 debut album Crow Amongst The Sparrows. - [Here are your 2025 East Coast Music Award winners in the folk/roots, global and Indigenous categories](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/12/here-are-your-2025-east-coast-music-award-winners-in-the-folk-roots-global-and-indigenous-categories/) - PEI ensemble Vishtèn Connexions cleaned up at the East Coast Music Awards this past week, taking home three awards for Album of the Year, Folk Release of the Year and Fusion Release of the Year. They are the first Francophone Acadian band to ever win the top album honour. They won it for their album, - [Clela Errington marks Mother's Day and Mental Health Month with a new single featuring her daughter](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/12/clela-errington-marks-mothers-day-and-mental-health-month-with-a-new-single-featuring-her-daughter/) - With a voice timeless and true, Toronto singer-songwriter Clela Errington releases her first single, “Full Moon Dark Time,” featuring her daughter, Jocelyn Barth. The new single is from the upcoming Walkin’ Each Other Home, Clela’s fifth studio album to date. “Full Moon Dark Time” is out on all major platforms today during Mental Health Awareness - [Lily Monaghan shares powerful new ballad "Snow In May" from upcoming sophomore EP](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/09/lily-monaghan-shares-powerful-new-ballad-snow-in-may-from-upcoming-sophomore-ep/) - As anticipation builds toward the release of her sophomore EP this fall, Lily Monaghan is sharing another preview with the single “Snow In May.” A haunting piano ballad, it is arguably Lily’s most affecting song to date, offering emotional swells like the waves on the sea near her current location in Scotland where she has - [gRaHaM mUrRaY sEaRs releases 'Snow Machine' from upcoming album, SHARE](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/08/graham-murray-sears-releases-snow-machine-from-upcoming-album-share/) - From the heart of the snow-covered landscapes of Hawk Junction, ON comes a song that captures the exhilarating freedom of winter adventure. Singer-songwriter gRaHaM mUrRaY sEaRs is back with his latest single, “Snow Machine,” a high-energy folk-rock anthem celebrating the thrill of snowmobiling, the beauty of the North, and the simple joys of embracing the - [Danny Marks Returns With Soul-Stirring New Single ‘I’m Ready’](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/05/danny-marks-returns-with-soul-stirring-new-single-im-ready/) - Few names carry the weight of Danny Marks in the Canadian blues and roots scene. From his early days as a founding member of Edward Bear, opening for the likes of Led Zeppelin and Humble Pie, to his decades as a torchbearer of the blues with BLUZ FM and beyond, Danny has remained a perennial - [Newbridge's debut LP is the soundtrack to your summer road trip](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/06/newbridges-debut-lp-is-the-soundtrack-to-your-summer-road-trip/) - Halifax folk rock band Newbridge has released its debut LP titled Past Lives. The album, which was released on March 28 by Beefy Records, evokes the feeling of driving down a rural road on a sunny day. The band is made up of Keith Maddison, Glen Nicholson, Jeff Mosher, Warren Robert and Robbie Crowell. Between - [Vancouver artists will play at a Mother's Day benefit for Gaza relief](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/07/vancouver-artists-will-play-at-a-mothers-day-benefit-for-gaza-relief/) - This Mother’s Day, the Kites of Hope Society is hosting a Vancouver fundraiser in solidarity with the women and children of Gaza. The event will feature live music from a variety of Vancouver-based musicians, as well as a fashion show featuring traditional Palestinian garments by Jafra Collections. You can attended in person on May 11 - [Let the lightning strike: what a songwriting workshop taught a non-songwriter about creativity](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/10/let-the-lightning-strike-what-a-songwriting-workshop-taught-a-non-songwriter-about-creativity/) - When I attended Lynn Miles’ songwriting workshop at this year’s Ottawa Grassroots Festival, I was worried about feeling out of place. As a journalist, I felt a divide between the kind of writing I do and the kind of writing it takes to produce a song. I almost felt inferior, as if I would not - [From musician to MP: Juno-winner David Myles wins a seat in the Carney government](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/04/david-myles-strikes-a-new-chord-in-canadian-politics-after-hometown-sweep/) - David Myles knows a thing or two about engaging a crowd by playing music, but now he’s trying his hand at politics. While many Canadians know David as a Juno award-winning folk artist and songwriter, he is now creating a new legacy as a recently elected Member of Parliament. David was elected as the Liberal - [Cabin Fever offers a fresh take on tradition with debut five-song EP It's Only Forever](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/02/cabin-fever-offers-a-fresh-take-on-tradition-with-debut-five-song-ep-its-only-forever/) - What began five years ago as three friends jamming around a campfire has now blossomed into Cabin Fever, Canada’s latest contribution to the international Americana music scene. Comprised of Kyle Faulkner on guitar and vocals, Jessica McKay on upright bass and vocals, and Colin Jolly on mandolin, Cabin Fever is primed to make a lasting - [Mike Plume responds to the Trump era by re-recording his anthem of Canadian pride](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/02/mike-plume-responds-to-the-trump-era-by-re-recording-his-anthem-of-canadian-pride/) - If you didn't already know that it's been 16 years since Mike Plume released the original version of "This is Our Home (8:30 Newfoundland)," you could easily conclude that he wrote it yesterday. It feels like a song made for the moment and written as a giant fuck you to Donald Trump, what with its - [6 concerts to celebrate the Rogue Folk Club's 38th anniversary](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/05/01/6-concerts-to-celebrate-the-rogue-folk-clubs-38th-anniversary/) - Happy 38th anniversary to the Rogue Folk Club, the destination for great folk music in Vancouver and online. The Rogue is celebrating this month with an unusually eclectic range of shows that includes some really eclectic artists like Paul Pigat and Karin Plato. It's also got Celtic-influenced local artist — and occasional Roots Music Canada - [Heather takes the train across Canada and checks out Via Rail's Artist on Board](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/30/heather-takes-the-train-across-canada-and-checks-out-via-rails-artist-on-board/) - Truth be told, we had already come through the Rocky Mountains when Lauren Carson began singing “Rocky Mountain High,” sitting on the edge of one of the seats in the Skyline Car on the Via Rail train from Vancouver to Toronto. But we were all still pretty high from the sight of their majestic peaks - [The Final Day of the Ottawa Grassroots Festival Showcases Strong Local Talent](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/28/the-final-day-of-the-ottawa-grassroots-festival-showcases-strong-local-talent/) - The final day of the Ottawa Grassroots Festival began with a gospel sing along in the church’s covered tent. Ottawa duo Ball & Chain is made up of Jody Benjamin on vocals and guitar and Michael Ball on the fiddle. The two are heavily inspired by traditional country music and Louisiana blues, having been performing - [It was all-day entertainment at Day 3 of the Ottawa Grass Roots Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/27/it-was-all-day-entertainment-at-day-3-of-the-ottawa-grass-roots-festival/) - The third day of the Ottawa Grassroots Festival was an all day event, with multiple shows and workshops for people to enjoy. In addition to Saturday night’s headline acts, festival goers were treated to a variety of different local roots musicians playing at different locations in the Unitarian Church. Free to attend in the daytime, - [Evangeline Gentle and Lynn Miles Shine on Day 2 of Ottawa Grassroots Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/26/evangeline-gentle-and-lynn-miles-shine-on-day-2-of-ottawa-grassroots-festival/) - The second day of the Ottawa Grassroots Festival showcased two powerful female vocalists in Friday’s lineup. As attendees gathered in the First Congregation Unitarian church, it was clear that the evening's acts, Evangeline Gentle and Lynn Miles, had garnered a large crowd. Wearing a bright green suit with her white guitar around her neck, Evangeline - [Dennis Ellsworth officially releases stunning new collection Hardcore Freewheelin'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/25/dennis-ellsworth-officially-releases-stunning-new-collection-hardcore-freewheelin/) - Following the success of his 2023 album Modern Hope – nominated for Solo Recording of the Year at the East Coast Music Awards – P.E.I.-based singer/songwriter Dennis Ellsworth returns with another stunning collection of his trademark blend of folk and power pop. Hardcore Freewheelin’ finds Ellsworth teamed up with producer Jim Bryson (Kathleen Edwards, Sarah - [The Dusty Drifters and Barrow Gang Buskers open day one of the Ottawa Grassroots Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/25/the-dusty-drifters-and-barrow-gang-buskers-open-day-one-of-the-ottawa-grassroots-festival/) - The first night of Ottawa’s 13th annual Grassroots Festival started with a lively kick off on Thursday from The Dusty Drifters and the Barrow Gang Buskers. Before the first band took the stage at the Unitarian church, Kitchissipi ward councillor Jeff Leiper delivered some warm and welcoming words. He commended the volunteers and emphasized the - [Lynn Miles brings songwriting wisdom to Ottawa's Grassroots Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/24/lynn-miles-brings-songwriting-wisdom-to-ottawas-grassroots-festival/) - Not only does Lynn Miles have a passion for writing songs, but she also finds excitement in helping others in their journey to create lyrical masterpieces. With 16 albums and multiple awards under her belt, the Canadian folk singer-songwriter has a deep understanding of the songwriting process and the elements that go into it. She - [Joe H Henry Embraces the Wild With New EP 'Real Things' and Upcoming East Coast Tour](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/23/joe-h-henry-embraces-the-wild-with-new-ep-real-things-and-upcoming-east-coast-tour/) - With a voice “as powerful as a freight train” and a soul that carries the weight of his lived experiences, Indigenous singer-songwriter Joe H Henry unveils his latest EP, Real Things—a raw and deeply personal exploration of life’s honest moments. Fresh off nominations for ECMA Blues Recording of the Year, Americana Recording of the Year - [Canadian jam band legend Mark Thackway releases second solo acoustic EP Twisted](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/18/canadian-jam-band-legend-mark-thackway-releases-second-solo-acoustic-ep-twisted/) - After making his solo debut in 2023 with an eponymous EP that Grateful Web.com described as “a true feast for the ears, especially for fans of Bruce Cockburn and Jerry Garcia’s acoustic work,” Toronto-based singer/songwriter Mark Thackway is back with a new six-song collection entitled Twisted. Each song once again captures Mark’s stellar guitar chops - [Tobacco & Rose Marries Melody and Metaphor in Haunting New Single "Bride of Suffering"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/17/tobacco-rose-marries-melody-and-metaphor-in-haunting-new-single-bride-of-suffering/) - What if your most enduring relationship… was with suffering? On his evocative new single “Bride of Suffering”, Victoria, BC-based artist Tobacco & Rose (aka Richard Moody) takes us on a poetic and emotionally immersive journey through the human condition—where sorrow is not only familiar, but wedded. Following the meditative grace of “Tara,” this latest release - [Looking Back on 50 Years of Vancouver Co-op Radio](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/16/looking-back-on-50-years-of-vancouver-co-op-radio/) - In November of 1974, Jim Burnett walked up the stairs of an old bank building at the corner of Carrall Street and Hastings Street in downtown Vancouver. Inside, the building was being converted into something completely different: a radio station. 50 years later, the downtown eastside is still home to Vancouver’s Co-op Radio (CFRO), an - [Sultans Of String's Chris McKhool to receive key to the City of Burlington](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/15/sultans-of-strings-chris-mckhool-to-receive-key-to-the-city-of-burlington/) - Canadian violinist and singer-songwriter Chris McKhool will be presented with the Key to the City of Burlington, ON, this Wednesday, April 16. Chris is being recognized by the city for his contributions to the community through artistic projects such as Walking Through Fire and Sanctuary: The Refuge Project. Since founding instrumental group Sultans of String - [East Coast duo Sirène et Matelot reflect on their second album together](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/19/east-coast-duo-sirene-et-matelot-reflect-on-their-second-album-together/) - At this year’s Canadian Folk Music Awards, Sirène et Matelot were nominated for French Songwriters of the Year. The duo, made up of Lennie Gallant and his partner Patricia Richard, were recognized for their work on their album Un monde de dissonances. It is their second album together, and while they didn’t win, they’re still - [The Home County Festival is back this year in London](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/14/the-home-county-festival-is-back-this-year-in-london/) - The Home County Folk League (HCFL) has announced the return of London's Home County Music & Art Festival after a one-year pause to assess its financial viability. The next edition will take place on a single day, July 26, on a single stage in Victoria Park. "We are thrilled to bring Home County back to - [Richard Moody quit the music scene to become a yoga teacher; now he's back](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/17/richard-moody-quit-the-music-scene-to-become-a-yoga-teacher-now-hes-back/) - Acoustically Inclined alumnus Richard Moody has release a new single under the moniker Tobacco & Rose. "Tara" is a gentle, alluring tune that could be thought of as a traditional love song. Yet for Tobacco & Rose, the song -- the first single from the forthcoming self-titled album -- has a deeper, spiritually tinged resonance. - [When Last Birds write about rural life, they're singing from experience](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/12/when-last-birds-write-about-rural-life-theyre-singing-from-experience/) - Living in a small Saskatchewan village gives you a distinct perspective on life and how people cope with changing times. As the village administrator of North Portal, a community of 113 people smack-dab on the Canada-US border, Lindsay Arnold knows a lot of stories and history of the area. Together with her husband, Mike Davis, - [Guelph, Ontario roots rockers Freightliner find Love In Labrador on latest single](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/11/guelph-ontario-roots-rockers-freightliner-find-love-in-labrador-on-latest-single/) - On their new single, “Love In Labrador,” Canadian roots rockers Freightliner put a fresh spin on a familiar tale of finding short-lived romance on the road. Written by bandleader Innes Wilson, the song’s “last call” vibes perfectly complement its bittersweet subject matter, along with capturing some vibrant east coast flavour. Innes said, “I was inspired - [Uncle Trent (Agecoutay) and Ashley Ghostkeeper release 'You're the Reason'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/10/uncle-trent-agecoutay-and-ashley-ghostkeeper-release-youre-the-reason/) - Following the success of "Burn a Smudge," which reached the Top 20 on the Indigenous Music Countdown, Cowessess First Nation singer-songwriter Uncle Trent (Agecoutay) returns with another heartfelt single from his upcoming album Legacy. “You’re the Reason,” featuring country artist Ashley Ghostkeeper, is a timeless celebration of love and devotion, written by Trent’s late father, - [Corby recaps the Friday night CFMA ceremony](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/06/corby-recaps-the-friday-night-cfma-ceremony/) - If you attended the Canadian Folk Music Awards gala on Friday night at Ottawa’s National Arts Centre, you would have had to enter by walking down a broad red staircase. So stately. There is no elevator. There is no banister. The city’s grande dame cultural showcase was a centennial project that opened its doors in - [Steve Marriner adds blues swagger to the Genesis classic 'I Can't Dance'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/09/steve-marriner-adds-blues-swagger-to-the-genesis-classic-i-cant-dance/) - From harmonica to baritone guitar, from frontman to producer, Steve Marriner has spent over two decades shaping the sound of modern blues. With two Juno Awards for his work with MonkeyJunk, a career spent touring with Colin James, and collaborations with Buddy Guy, Jimmie Vaughan, and Blue Rodeo, Steve has become one of Canada’s most - [Corby Recaps The Final Night Of The CFMAs](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/07/corby-recaps-the-final-night-of-the-cfmas/) - By the third and final night of the 20th annual Canadian Folk Music Awards, the conventional tribalism of musical throngs had been elaborated, after many days of jams, joints and jokes into a comfortable, and more collegial community. The call of quotidian imperatives had summoned away some of the award winners and non-winners of the - [Here are your 2025 Canadian Folk Music Award winners (final list)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/07/here-are-your-2025-canadian-folk-music-award-winners-final-list/) - The Canadian Folk Music Awards announced the final two winners of the 2025 awards Sunday morning during a folk for families concert at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, QC. It was the last of four events that were part awards ceremony, part nominee showcase, all of which marked the 20th anniversary of the - [Corby recaps the 2025 Canadian Folk Music Awards Thursday night show](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/05/corby-recaps-the-2025-canadian-folk-music-awards-thursday-night-show/) - The Hall of the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau has the most dizzyingly vertical interior that you have ever experienced. The space is enclosed by towering ranks and rows of carved totem poles with clusters of Indigenous sculptures and statues occupying the farther corners. On Thursday evening, these perpendicular hosts observed the opening ceremony - [Here are your 2025 Canadian Folk Music Award winners from Saturday night](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/06/here-are-your-2025-canadian-folk-music-award-winners-from-saturday-night/) - Night three of the four-night Canadian Folk Music Awards 20th anniversary extravaganza unfolded on Saturday night at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau. Here's who took home trophies during last night's ceremony and showcase: Instrumental Solo Artist of the Year: Jeremie Groleau Stan Rogers Traditional Singer of the Year: Lucy MacNeil Solo Artist of - [Why Garnet Rogers wrote a sequel to his debut novel -- and what's coming next](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/05/why-garnet-rogers-wrote-a-sequel-to-his-debut-novel-and-whats-coming-next/) - Singer-songwriter Garnet Rogers has spent a lifetime as a touring musician. Starting right out of high school as his brother Stan’s sideman on the road and in the recording studio for 10 years, the last 40 years have seen him release a dozen albums and criss-cross North America to play everywhere from small town folk - [Here are your 2025 Canadian Folk Music Award winners from Friday night](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/05/here-are-your-2025-canadian-folk-music-award-winners-from-friday-night/) - Night two of the four-night Canadian Folk Music Awards 20th anniversary extravaganza unfolded on Friday night, with a gala concert and ceremony featuring Connie Kaldor, Kiran Ahluwalia, Mia Kelly, Indian city and others. Here's who took home awards last night: Contemporary Album of the Year: Boy Golden - For Jimmy Single of the Year: Loryn - [Here are your 2025 Canadian Folk Music Award winners from Thursday night's ceremony](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/04/here-are-your-2025-canadian-folk-music-award-winners-from-thursday-nights-ceremony/) - The Canadian Folk Music Awards are celebrating their 20th anniversary this weekend with a series of ceremonies back where where the festivities all began: at the Canadian Museum of History in Gatineau, QC, which was then known as the Museum of Civilization. The CFMAs began a tradition several years ago of dividing their ceremony over two - [Gordie Tentrees and Jaxon Haldane announce Double Takes LP with first single 'Time'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/04/gordie-tentrees-and-jaxon-haldane-announce-double-takes-lp-with-first-single-time/) - “This album was kind of a bucket list project for both of us,” Gordie said. “Going to Nashville, working with a studio stud like Nash, and hearing Charlie McCoy play harmonica on your record—the same man who played on Elvis Presley and Bob Dylan records—you feel great in realizing this is what can happen if - [6 amazing shows to check out this month at the Rogue Folk Club](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/03/6-amazing-shows-to-check-out-this-month-at-the-rogue-folk-club/) - Once again this month, the Rogue Folk Club is presenting us with a very difficult choice around how to spend our music bucks. They've got SIX shows for us to choose from. It's going to be an especially tough choice for fans of neo-trad, but those shows are bookended with gigs by the near-legendary Steve - [Calgary's Ollee Owens wins first place in the Women's Freedom Song Contest lyrics/poetry category](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/02/calgarys-ollee-owens-wins-first-place-in-the-womens-freedom-song-contest-lyrics-poetry-category/) - The results are in, and Ollee Owens has taken home first place in the lyrics/poetry category at the Women’s Freedom Song Contest for her powerful piece, “Still in Pieces.” The Women’s Freedom Song Contest is an annual celebration of music and poetry that amplifies female voices and stories. With a mission to find the next - [Artists: get your application in for the Aurora Cultural Centre's Brevik Collaboratory by April 18](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/04/01/artists-get-your-application-in-for-the-aurora-cultural-centres-brevik-collaboratory-by-april-18/) - Are you a performing artist looking to hone your craft? Do you want expert coaching in stage presence, songwriting, or career strategy? Need insights into royalties, grants, and publicity? The summer 2025 Brevik Collaboratory is seeking 15 passionate musicians, vocalists, and multidisciplinary performers ready to elevate their artistry. Whether you’re emerging or mid-career, this unique - [Big Dave McLean receives 2025 Juno Award for This Old Life](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/31/big-dave-mclean-receives-2025-juno-award-for-this-old-life/) - Legendary Canadian bluesman Big Dave McLean has been honored with the 2025 Juno Award for Blues Album of the Year for his latest album, This Old Life released on Victoria-based indie label Cordova Bay Records. It's the first Juno in six nominations for the 72-year-old artist, further cementing his legacy as one of the most - [Here are your 2025 Juno Award winners in the roots, global and Indigenous categories](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/30/here-are-your-2025-juno-award-winners-in-the-roots-global-and-indigenous-categories/) - The Juno Awards gala has just wrapped up in Vancouver and the winners announced in all the categories that we follow here at Roots Music Canada. The main Juno telecast takes place tomorrow, but for at least two decades now, it's been preceded on Saturday night by a gala where the majority of the awards - [Why Doug Cox left the Vancouver Island Music Festival and what he's doing now](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/29/why-doug-cox-left-the-vancouver-island-music-festival-and-what-hes-doing-now/) - Doug Cox is truly a musical polymath. Film and TV soundtrack composer, multi-instrumentalist, producer, sideman, solo performer, artistic director and teacher are just some of the roles he’s played during his life in music. He first came to prominence as a particularly dextrous and skilled performer on various members of the slide guitar family including - [Celtic icon Lucy MacNeil releases long-awaited solo album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/28/celtic-icon-lucy-macneil-releases-long-awaited-solo-album/) - After 37 years of enchanting audiences worldwide as a member of the legendary Barra MacNeils, Lucy MacNeil is stepping into the spotlight with her highly anticipated solo album and a string of tour dates that will bring her rich, soul-stirring voice and deep-rooted Cape Breton traditions to audiences across Canada. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbT80YCrky0 For more than three - [Sylvia Tyson earns Juno nomination for Traditional Roots Album of the Year](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/27/sylvia-tyson-earns-juno-nomination-for-traditional-roots-album-of-the-year/) - Canadian folk legend Sylvia Tyson has once again been recognized for her unparalleled contributions to music, earning a Juno Award nomination for Traditional Roots Album of the Year for her latest and final studio album, At the End of The Day. The awards will be handed out this weekend. A masterful collection of songs that - [Applications open now for Goderich Celtic Roots Festivals emerging artist showcase](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/26/applications-open-now-for-goderich-celtic-roots-festivals-emerging-artist-showcase/) - The Goderich Celtic Roots Festival is now accepting applications for the 2025 edition of its Robinson Emerging Artist Showcase, a four-year-old showcase program for emerging Celtic artists. Named in honour of festival founders Warren and Eleanor Robinson, the showcase provides a career-boosting opportunity for musicians in the early stages of their careers. Previous winners include - [Don Ross and Julie Malia announce spring 2025 tour and release new single](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/25/don-ross-and-julie-malia-announce-spring-2025-tour-and-release-new-single/) - Don Ross and Julie Malia are hitting the road this spring, bringing their masterful blend of intricate fingerstyle guitar, dynamic vocal interplay, and deep musical storytelling to audiences across Canada’s East Coast. Fresh off the release of their latest single, "Wave From Your Window," the duo is set to deliver an unforgettable tour that showcases - [Gerry Jack Macks collaborates with Al Lerman on a pair of singles inspired by chance encounters](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/24/gerry-jack-macks-collaborates-with-al-lerman-on-a-pair-of-singles-inspired-by-chance-encounters/) - Kamloops, British Columbia-based musician Gerry Jack Macks is offering up a one-two combo with his latest Double-A side singles "Two Melissas" and "Too Many Times Down That Road," which boogie from start to finish. Both singles also feature Gerry Jack collaborating with talented young drummer Sara Varro and two-time Juno Award winner Al Lerman. And - [Why Terra Spencer still feels like a musical newcomer](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/22/why-terra-spencer-still-feels-like-a-musical-newcomer/) - When my wife, Kate, was an elementary teacher, her students ordered books each month through the Scholastic Book Club. It was an affordable way for those in her class to get literature geared to their age group. Many of the books had covers which used a similar template so they fit together as a collection. - [Mallory Chipman shares 'Mythic Time' video from latest solo album Songs to a Wild God](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/21/mallory-chipman-shares-mythic-time-video-from-latest-solo-album-songs-to-a-wild-god/) - After making a lasting impression at this year's Folk Alliance International conference in Montreal, Edmonton singer-songwriter Mallory Chipman continues to build on the accolades for her current album Songs to a Wild God. She's now sharing a new video for the track "Mythic Time," one of the album's standouts, with its echoes of classic British - [Stringband reissues 'The Maple Leaf Dog' because Trump](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/20/stringband-reissues-the-maple-leaf-dog-because-trump/) - A Canadian folk band from the 1970s has just rereleased its patriotic audience favourite in response to the orange menace south of the border. “Trump made me do it!” said Bob Bossin, the founder of the fondly-remembered Stringband. Nearly 50 years ago, Stringband recorded “The Maple Leaf Dog”, one of its most popular songs. Now - [Album review: Trinelise Væring - A Songwriter's Odyssey](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/19/album-review-trinelise-vaering-a-songwriters-odyssey/) - How did a Danish singer-songwriter with an extensive background in folk, rock and jazz end up in Vancouver recording an album of Americana music with some of the city’s finest players? That was the first question that popped into my head as I settled in to listen to A Songwriter's Odyssey and read the accompanying - [2 amazing shows to close out the month at the Aurora Cultural Centre](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/18/2-amazing-shows-to-close-out-the-month-at-the-aurora-cultural-centre/) - If you live in the Greater Toronto Area and you think of destinations for great live music, you might think of stalwarts like Hugh's Room Live or Acoustic Harvest. But head a little north of the city, and the Aurora Cultural Centre has also become a formidable force on the scene, thanks in part to - [Roots Musician John Dawson Finds Universal Love in Wrestling-Inspired Single "Under All the Lights"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/17/roots-musician-john-dawson-finds-universal-love-in-wrestling-inspired-single-under-all-the-lights/) - They say that behind every great man is a woman. That’s the theme of “Under All the Lights,” the new single from Newmarket roots musician John Dawson a song about love between a professional wrestler and his wife. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AfxwpOG-wxI For real, though. Behind the song’s ambiguous portrait of undying devotion is the story of WWE - [How Sam Allison's solo debut differs from Sheesham, Lotus and Son](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/15/how-sam-allisons-solo-debut-differs-from-sheesham-lotus-and-son/) - In a Peanuts comic strip from 1960, Linus Van Pelt says to Charlie Brown, “The way I see it, as soon as a baby is born, he should be issued a banjo!”. “I think that’s a bit of a controversial comment,” says Sam Allison. “But the banjo has always grabbed me. I really started playing - [Essential Canadian Albums: Gordon Lightfoot, The Way I Feel (United Artists, 1967)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/14/essential-canadian-albums-gordon-lightfoot-the-way-i-feel-united-artists-1967/) - Roots Music Canada’s Essential Canadian Albums series tells the stories of the recordings that every Canadian music fan should have in their collection. Gordon Lightfoot made his formal debut at the start of 1966 with Lightfoot!, an album that seemed the final destination on the twisted path he’d been on for the previous few years, - [Stephen Fearing's the Empathist is out tomorrow](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/13/stephen-fearings-the-empathist-is-out-tomorrow/) - Juno Award-winning roots troubadour Stephen Fearing releases his new album, The Empathist, tomorrow along with the focus track of the same name. Finishing an East Coast tour that began with two sold out shows in Halifax, Stephen will be joined by Danish backing band and folk music pioneers The Sentimentals for a number of dates - [Bruce Cockburn, Ani DiFranco, Black Umfalosi part of rereleased all-star activist single](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/11/bruce-cockburn-ani-difranco-black-umfalosi-part-of-rereleased-all-star-activist-single/) - A relaunch of a 2022 rendition of "Which Side Are You On," featuring 19 renowned Canadian and international artists, is like the a Band Aid or Northern Lights project for opposing fascism. The song, produced by Chris Corrigan and featuring a video produced by Bob Jensen, is a cover of Florence Reece's 1930s union anthem. - [Montreal folkie Brian Campbell releases the blues rocker 'Planet on Fire'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/11/montreal-folkie-brian-campbell-releases-the-blues-rocker-planet-on-fire/) - With the climate crisis reaching a crucial crossroads, Montreal-based singer Brian Campbell has penned a passionate call to do whatever one can to save the planet. https://youtu.be/tLitKWkqop4?si=gSWqapK_PPPfEW1E "It’s quite clear that 'Planet on Fire,' a blues rock protest song, is an outlier; most of what I do is acoustic folk," Brian said of the single. - [Rozalind MacPhail reimagines Jill Barber’s 'In Perfect Time'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/10/rozalind-macphail-reimagines-jill-barbers-in-perfect-time/) - Artists sometimes pay tribute to those who have inspired them by covering their material. But often those renditions are run-of-the-mill, note-for-note efforts that rarely push the creative envelope. Thankfully, Toronto Island-born and now St. John's, Newfoundland-based indie pop singer and acclaimed flutist Rozalind MacPhail has given kudos to Canadian jazz pop singer Jill Barber with - [How Jeffrey Straker came to launch his new album in grain elevators](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/08/how-jeffrey-straker-came-to-launch-his-new-album-in-grain-elevators/) - As a son of Saskatchewan, raised on a grain farm, Jeffery Straker’s first job as a teenager was to clean out the dust collector of a grain elevator. So when he was looking for a unique venue for the release of Great Big Sky, the first thing that came to mind was a grain elevator. - [The Rizdales' Tom Dunphy announces debut solo album Everything Was New](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/07/the-rizdales-tom-dunphy-announces-debut-solo-album-everything-was-new/) - Back in 2003, Tom Dunphy and his wife Tara had a dream of starting an original band that reflected their love of classic country music. It led to the formation of The Rizdales, which quickly earned a reputation as one of Canada’s finest roots music acts, releasing seven critically acclaimed albums—the most recent being 2018’s - [How Steve Strongman added 'Grammy nominee' to his resume this year](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/06/how-steve-strongman-added-grammy-nominee-to-his-resume-this-year/) - There weren't any big Canadian winners in the roots categories at the Grammys last month. But that doesn't mean there weren't any Canadians involved behind the scenes with the nominees. Stony Plain Records producer, guitarist, and songwriter Steve Strongman had his hand in two Grammy-nominated albums this year: Struck Down by The Fabulous Thunderbirds and - [6 tariff-free shows you don't want to miss this month at the Rogue Folk Club and online](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/05/6-tariff-free-shows-you-dont-want-to-miss-this-month-at-the-rogue-folk-club-and-online/) - The Rogue Folk Club is offering a massive calendar of non-American, mostly Canadian offerings this month, and what a great reminder of all the amazing music we have here at home! Harry Manx? Stephen Fearing? Rum Ragged? Yes please! With the U.S. trade war in full swing, we fans need to get out there and - [Sue Foley Receives 2025 Juno nomination for Blues Album of the Year](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/04/sue-foley-receives-2025-juno-nomination-for-blues-album-of-the-year/) - Topping off an amazing year since the Stony Plain release of her One Guitar Woman album, Sue Foley has been honoured with a Juno Award nomination for Blues Album of the Year, her sixth nomination. The previous five produced one win for 2001’s Love Comin' Down. In a year that has seen her earn her - [Americana rocker J.P. Mortier hits the gas with road-trip anthem 'Drive Far'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/04/americana-rocker-j-p-mortier-hits-the-gas-with-road-trip-anthem-drive-far/) - The history of rock n' roll is filled with great driving songs: “Radar Love,” “Highway Star,” “I Drove All Night.” To that list, add J.P. Mortier’s “Drive Far,” an instantly addictive number that will compel you to lean on that pedal just a little bit harder the moment the first bars kick in. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=voLL1ubWc-U His - [Lancelot Knight: From sports dreams to music's embrace](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/03/lancelot-knight-from-sports-dreams-to-musics-embrace/) - Lancelot Knight is a Plains Cree singer-songwriter from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. Music was always present in his life — his father, Chester Knight, is a Juno award-winning singer-songwriter — but for most of his youth, Lancelot wanted nothing to do with it. "All I wanted to be was an athlete," he said, Standing at six-foot-seven, Lancelot - [Remembering Brian Pickell](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/03/01/remembering-brian-pickell/) - When I woke up this morning, I found my phone and social media pages blowing up with the news that the extraordinary composer and musician Brian Pickell had died. I felt gutted. Canada has lost one of its most exceptional musical talents. For over thirty years, Brian made music with some of the best in - [Schyrer, Enblom and Dobres to make trio debut at Rogue Folk Club](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/27/accllaimed-trio-set-to-take-the-stage-at-rogue-folk-club/) - The trio of Pierre Schyrer, Danielle Enblom and Adam Dobres will perform at Vancouver's Rogue Folk Club tomorrow night, which means those of us outside Vancouver can watch at home. While each member has played the Rogue before as part of a solo care, this will be the first time they take the stage as - [Orchard Sky returns with blazing new single "Good Intentions"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/28/orchard-sky-returns-with-blazing-new-single-good-intentions/) - Canada’s dynamic Americana duo Orchard Sky is kicking off 2025 with a new single “Good Intentions,” powered by the soulful vocals of Krystle Dos Santos and the tasty slide guitar of Mitch Smith. Dually based in Vancouver and Edmonton, Orchard Sky first hit the national scene in 2022 with “Canadian Party Song,” which was picked - [Too soon to tell how tariffs will impact Canadian festivals, ADs say](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/27/u-s-tariffs-an-opportunity-covered-in-uncertainty/) - As U.S. President Donald Trump revives his threat of sweeping tariffs set to take effect in April now, some Canadian folk festivals say it's too soon to know how it will impact their operations. Mariposa Folk Festival artistic director Spencer Shewen emphasized that while international artists remain part of the lineup, Canadian talent dominates. "Great music - [Folk artist Christophe Elie is fighting for change with music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/26/christophe-elie-tackling-change-with-music/) - Headed to Montreal for Folk Alliance International (FAI), acclaimed folk artist Christophe Elie also has his sights set on another profound journey of music and activism. On March 2, Christophe will board the Peace Train, travelling from Montreal to New York City with Green Party Leader Elizabeth May and other peace advocates for the Third Meeting of States Parties to the Treaty on - [David Gogo earns 2025 Juno award nomination](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/25/david-gogo-earns-2025-juno-award-nomination/) - Celebrated blues-rock guitarist David Gogo has once again been recognized by the Juno Awards. He received a 2025 nomination for Blues Album of the Year for his electrifying new release, YEAH!, released by Victoria-based indie label Cordova Bay Records. This marks David's seventh Juno nomination, further cementing his status as one of Canada’s most enduring - [Dispatches from the Folk Alliance International conference: Day 4 (Saturday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/25/dispatches-from-the-folk-alliance-international-conference-day-4-saturday/) - Saturday was the last day of programming for the conference that began on Wednesday. The only event on the schedule Sunday is a wrap party in the evening sponsored by Louisiana, which I assume has something to do with the fact the conference location next year is in New Orleans. Once again, the day contained - [HuDost tackles climate crisis with a powerful single](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/24/hudost-tackles-climate-crisis-with-powerful-single/) - There is no shortage of artists concerned about climate change, but for HuDost, it’s personal. Their impassioned new single, “Fire of Eden,” was inspired by an epiphany vocalist/lyricist Moksha Sommer had while on the road, surveying the damage brought by the California wildfires. She could see that the environmental upheavals she had been witnessing for - [Dispatches from the Folk Alliance International conference in Montreal: Day 3 (Friday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/22/dispatches-from-the-folk-alliance-international-conference-in-montreal-day-2-friday/) - By my reckoning, I’ve been at the Folk Alliance conference for a little over 30 hours and it seems like a month, and that’s a good thing because so much great stuff is happening it just feels that way. Most conference goers, I think, get into a zone where they have figured out where everything - [What's happening at Folk Alliance 2025](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/21/whats-happening-at-folk-alliance-2025/) - The conference got underway on Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025, but getting to Montreal in a timely fashion ended up being a bit of a struggle for some of us, particularly those coming from the East making use of VIA Rail or the 401. Winter in Canada, eh? In fact, by the time I got on - [Anne Lindsay's Soloworks 2: An album born in a burned landmark](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/21/anne-lindays-soloworks-2-an-album-born-in-a-lost-landmark/) - Anne Lindsay is marking some big milestones in 2025: 60 years since she picked up the violin and 50 years since she became a professional musician. Additionally, her favourite instrument will celebrate its 100th birthday. Throughout that time, Anne has built a staggering resume that spans nearly every genre. She is perhaps best known as - [Sultans of String celebrate Cannes win with free screening of Walking Through The Fire at Montreal's Folk Alliance](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/20/sultans-of-string-celebrate-cannes-win-with-free-screening-of-walking-through-the-fire-at-montreals-folk-alliance/) - Three-time Juno nominees and six-time Canadian Folk Music Award winners Sultans of String are kicking off the New Year with a free screening of their award-winning film Walking Through The Fire. The film that just won Best Musical Film and Best Soundtrack at the Cannes World Film Festival. This powerful film production is unlike any - [Canadian musicians the Cooper Brothers join Canada's fight against U.S. tariffs](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/20/canadian-musicians-the-cooper-brothers-join-canadas-fight-against-u-s-tariffs/) - Internationally acclaimed country-rockers, the Cooper Brothers, are joining the fight against the threat of U.S. tariffs. With the possibility of 25 per cent tariffs being levied by new U.S. President Donald Trump on all Canadian goods as early as Feb. 1, the Cooper Brothers are re-releasing their song "That's What Makes Us Great". The 51st - [A Sit and Talk with Tom Landa](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/19/a-sit-and-talk-with-tom-landa/) - As founder and leader of both The Paperboys and Locarno, Tom Landa has been a driving force in the Canadian music scene for well over 30 years. How did a Mexican-born lad, who relocated to Thunder Bay, ON in his teenage years, end up in Vancouver, BC heading up two of the most enduring and - [Amanda Rheaume - Making A Stand](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/19/amanda-rheaume-making-a-stand/) - The John F. Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C, known for being the next step for many artists, has been under heat lately. The heat comes from their newly appointed chairman, US President Donald Trump, who fired the board of directors, in turn giving him the chair. This new leadership change has already shaken up the - [Americana artist KC Armstrong revisits the past with swampy new single](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/18/americana-artist-kc-armstrong-revisits-the-past-with-swampy-new-single/) - For Brantford, ON-based Americana musician KC Armstrong, the pandemic offered up time to rediscover old gems from his catalogue, including "Someone Else Tonight," the latest single, from his Finally Crafted album, teeming with passion and verve. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kMM6D7ki_6Y "Someone Else Tonight" was originally recorded for Ranchsongs, an album released in the mid '80s by KC's previous - [How Minor Gold are building a career in their homeland after launching in Australia](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/15/how-minor-gold-are-building-a-career-in-their-homeland-after-launching-in-australia/) - Growing up near the shores of Lake Erie in Ontario, Tracy McNeil was surrounded by music. Her parents had been in bands together before Tracy was born in 1974. Soon enough she started her own career in music and in 2006 released her first album, Room Where She Lives. “I launched it in Toronto and - [Leah Barley hopes things 'Don't Get Weird' on new Valentine's Day-themed single](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/14/leah-barley-hopes-things-dont-get-weird-on-new-valentines-day-themed-single/) - For everyone who dreads Valentine's Day, Leah Barley feels your pain on her new single "Don't Get Weird." It's part of the Vancouver singer-songwriter's long-overdue return with Awkward & Heartbroken, an EP that follows Leah's acclaimed 2020 full-length debut album Bring Out Your Dead. Consisting of two new songs—“Don’t Get Weird” (available now at Bandcamp, - [Whiskey Jack celebrates 46 years in music with 'O L D'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/13/whiskey-jack-celebrates-46-years-in-music-with-o-l-d/) - If you're fortunate enough to grow old, you begin to ask yourself simple questions, like “Did I leave my keys in my wallet or in my car? Did I leave my wallet in my car or at home? Did I leave my dentures in my car or in my wallet?” Time remains undefeated after all. - [2025 Folk Alliance International Conference – Preview](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/12/2025-folk-alliance-international-conference-preview/) - This year’s Folk Alliance International conference will take place in Montreal from February 19-23. Typically, each year a theme is chosen. The current offering has been organized under the theme “Illuminate” and is described in this way: To truly amplify our impact, we must first replenish our creative wellsprings. This conference will explore the power - [Rooting For All Of The New Juno Nominees Just Announced](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/11/rooting-for-all-of-the-new-juno-nominees-just-announced/) - Today's reveal of the 2025 Juno nominees in the various Roots departments featured some old, some new, some Native, some Reggae and some Blues. In the Traditional Roots category, nods went out to Inn Echo, Jake Vaadeland, La Bottine Souriante, Loreena McKennitt, and Sylvia Tyson. Contemporary Roots candidates were Abigail Lapell, Julian Taylor, Boy Golden, - [Home Routes looking for new house concert hosts for 2025/2026 season](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/10/home-routes-looking-for-new-house-concert-hosts-for-2025-2026-season/) - Canada's largest house concert network is looking for new hosts for its 2025/2026 concert season. Home Routes/Chemin Chez Nous is inviting community leaders, venue owners and music enthusiasts to transform their living rooms, community halls, cafes or libraries into stages for musical performances. Hosts would also host the artists in their homes. It's all about - [Penticton B.C.'s Hillside Outlaws greet 2025 by saying 'So Long'" on new single](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/07/penticton-b-c-s-hillside-outlaws-greet-2025-by-saying-so-long-on-new-single/) - Canadian country/Americana duo Hillside Outlaws are kicking off 2025 on a strong note with their latest single “So Long,” another prime example of Louis Bigras and Langley Jackson’s distinctive blend of modern melodicism and classic heartbreak. It follows the pair’s 2024 single “Ring On Her Hand,” which has added to over 250K streams they have - [6 Canadian songs about resilience and resistance that we need to hear right now](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/05/6-canadian-songs-about-resilience-and-resistance-that-we-need-to-hear-right-now/) - Well, it's been a week, hasn't it? Wait. It's only Wednesday? Sigh. You know what I'm talking about. The tariffs, the no tariffs, the 51st state stuff, the corporate takeover of the U.S. government, the dismantling of their public service, and the general sense of doom at feeling like we now live next door to - [Video review: Blue Moon Marquee - 'Come on Down'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/04/video-review-blue-moon-marquee-come-on-down/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. Blue Moon Marquee has released a brand new video for its song "Come on Down," and damn does the world ever need something uplifting like this right now. Subtitled "a visual story of resistance and resilience," it features a - [How the Fretless create their award-winning (mostly) instrumental folk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/08/how-the-fretless-create-their-award-winning-mostly-instrumental-folk/) - As a group that has always strived to expand the idea of what a string quartet can sound like, the Fretless has moved even further with the release of its sixth album, Glasswing. Starting with its debut album, Waterbound, its repertoire has been a mix of original, traditional and cover tunes. The group has also - [Concert review: Ron Sexsmith at Hugh’s Room – Jan. 31, 2025](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/06/concert-review-ron-sexsmith-at-hughs-room-jan-31-2025/) - Ron Sexsmith performed at Hugh’s Room in Toronto to sold-out houses in a three-night run from Jan. 31 to Feb. 2. I attended the first night as part of a very appreciative audience. For those few unaware, Ron has been a very important part of the Canadian music scene for years. He won songwriter of - [Folk radio show to remember Jane McGarrigle and Garth Hudson tomorrow](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/03/folk-radio-show-to-remember-jane-mcgarrigle-and-garth-hudson-tomorrow/) - Remembering Jane McGarrigle and Garth Hudson are the themes for the next edition of Stranger Songs on CKCU. The show is hosted by Folk DJ Hall of Fame broadcaster Mike Regenstreif. If you're in Ottawa, tune in at 93.1 FM on Tuesday from 3:30-5 p.m. ET. You can also listen to the show on demand - [Blue Rodeo's Mike Boguski reissues two solo albums with new mixes and bonus tracks](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/31/blue-rodeos-mike-boguski-reissues-two-solo-albums-with-new-mixes-and-bonus-tracks/) - Fans of Mike Boguski’s solo work have been treated to hearing the Blue Rodeo keyboardist venture into a range of sounds from jazz fusion to experimental composition in recent years, and he’s continued to refine those recordings in an effort to provide both the best representation of his musical vision, and of what was captured - [Gary Cristall recalls how Judy Collins changed his life](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/02/01/gary-cristall-recalls-how-judy-collins-changed-his-life/) - It was the winter of 1966/67, December I believe, when I first heard Judy Collins’ masterpiece In My Life. I was a 16-year-old high school dropout, making a living selling underground newspapers on the streets of Toronto’s Yorkville hippie haven. There was a drop-in centre at the First United Church at Webster and Avenue Road. - [Sara Kae follows Indigenous Music Countdown charting '25' with 'One Good Reason'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/31/sara-kae-follows-indigenous-music-countdown-charting-25-with-one-good-reason/) - Depression and mental health issues can be heavy topics to discuss. But with more awareness comes more empathy and ways to address these issues head on. Folksy singer-songwriter Sara Kae, an Ojibwe and Cree member of Ontario's Lake Helen First Nation near Thunder Bay, has tackled the subject with the warm, almost criminally melodic single - [Sultans of String and the Mississauga Symphony Orchestra to perform Refuge Feb. 8](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/30/sultans-of-string-and-the-mississauga-symphony-orchestra-to-perform-refuge-feb-8/) - Three-time Juno nominees Sultans of String and the Mississauga Symphony Orchestra under the direction of Maestro Denis Mastromonaco are kicking off the New Year with a world premiere of Refuge. This powerful production is unlike any other and brings the magic of collaboration to the stage with award-winning artists who are new immigrants, refugees, and - [Folk Alliance International's new ED, Jennifer Roe, talks to Roots Music Canada](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/29/folk-alliance-internationals-new-ed-jennifer-roe-talks-to-roots-music-canada/) - Folk Alliance International (FIA) will host its 37th annual Conference in Montreal from Feb. 19-23. FIA is a non-profit organization based in Kansas City, MO. It produces an annual conference with changing locations across North America. Every six years, it is held in Canada. FAI directs advocacy, professional development, and networking activities. It has a - [Anishinaabe songwriter Graeme Jonez celebrates biker life on 'Ride or Die'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/27/anishinaabe-songwriter-graeme-jonez-celebrates-biker-life-on-ride-or-die/) - The bikers’ famous credo is that we ride to live and live to ride. But Graeme Jonez wants you to know that it runs deeper than that. His new single, “Ride or Die,” raises the stakes of a life on the road to something truly metaphysical—an irresistible rendezvous with the infinite that’s just a full - [Album review: Secondhand Dreamcar - Answer the Call](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/28/album-review-secondhand-dreamcar-answer-the-call/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. This is just the debut album from Edmonton’s Secondhand Dreamcar, but you sure as hell wouldn’t know it by listening. Fronted by Canadian Folk Music Award nominee Dana Wylie, this funky nine-piece soul-meets-roots band is absolutely smoking. The classic - [How Colin Linden has evolved from a kid who designed record labels to a Canadian music icon](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/25/how-colin-linden-has-evolved-from-a-kid-who-designed-record-labels-to-a-canadian-music-icon/) - Colin Linden has always been fascinated by records. From the design of the labels to figuring out who wrote the songs and where they were recorded, Colin was always searching for more information. “Our cousin lived with us for a few years, and he was deeply into the Everly Brothers, Roy Orbison and Buddy Holly," - [To Kingdom Come: Remembering Garth Hudson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/24/to-kingdom-come-remembering-garth-hudson/) - Like most of the meaningful things I've achieved in the music business, getting to know Garth Hudson, who passed away Jan. 21 at age 87, can be traced back to my dad's record collection. As a kid in the early '70, I would wile away time just flipping through his LPs and marvel at the - [Opinion: the Folk Alliance conference is in Canada this year, and this is where it should stay](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/23/opinion-the-folk-alliance-conference-is-in-canada-this-year-and-this-is-where-it-should-stay/) - For as long as I’ve worked in folk music, and that’s nearly 30 years now, the annual Folk Alliance International conference has travelled to Canada approximately every five years. Next month, it returns by popular demand to Montreal, the same place it was held the last time it was in Canada in 2019. And this - [Exclusive preview: Stephen Fearing's new song inspired by a conversation with Adrian Sutherland](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/22/exclusive-preview-stephen-fearings-new-song-inspired-by-a-conversation-with-adrian-sutherland/) - Juno-Award-winning roots troubadour Stephen Fearing releases a new single "Far from the Middle" on Jan. 31, accompanied by a new lyric video. And we're super stoked here at Roots Music Canada to be premiering them today! The song is from Stephen's is 15th album, The Empathist, coming out this year. The single will be out on - [Single review: Bodh'aktan - 'Au revoir la belle'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/21/single-review-bodhaktan-au-revoir-la-belle/) - Well this was a head trip. The first thing I noticed when I headed to the YouTube video for this song was that the comments were all in French. So the moment “Au revoir la belle” opened with fiddle and handclaps, I was expecting a jaunty piece of QueTrad to come through the speakers. Imagine - [Check out James Gordon's Trump Inauguration song 'co-written' by Andrew Coyne](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/20/check-out-james-gordons-trump-inauguration-song-co-written-by-andrew-coyne/) - If there's one Canadian songwriter we can always count on to crank out a topical song in record time, it's James Gordon. But when it comes to his brand new song about the Trump inauguration, we also have Andrew Coyne to thank. Yes, he of the Globe and Mail and the CBC At Issue panel. - [Charlie A'court gets out of his own way working with other writers on San Palarino](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/19/charlie-acourt-gets-out-of-his-own-way-working-with-other-writers-on-san-palarino/) - Nova-Scotia singer-songwriter Charlie A’Court was at a bit of a crossroads in his career. For so many years, his music was blues-based. But since around 2012, he had been moving away from the blues and more towards the roots/Americana music he’d grown up with. Up until then in his songwriting, Charlie never wanted to get - [Boreal shares lyric video for 'Winterbirds,' title track of new album officially out March 7](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/17/boreal-shares-lyric-video-for-winterbirds-title-track-of-new-album-officially-out-march-7/) - As anticipation builds for the official release of Boreal's sophomore album, Winterbirds, the Canadian folk trio is sharing a new lyric video for the title track. Singer-songwriters Tannis Slimmon, Katherine Wheatley and Angie Nussey began making Winterbirds in 2023 as the long-overdue follow-up to Boreal's 2014 debut album, Winter’s Welcome. While a chilly theme is - [Half A Chance sings of struggling to conceive on 'Little Problems'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/16/half-a-chance-sings-of-struggling-to-conceive-on-little-problems/) - For musical and married partners Joey Clarkson and Peter Dixon, known as the Americana duo Half a Chance, trying to bring a little bundle of joy into the world has been challenging. While sadly, the social discourse, general attitudes, and sensitivity towards the issue remain problematic, the group has addressed the issue head-on with the - [Over the Moon are turning a restored movie threatre in Hardisty , AB into a venue and studio](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/15/over-the-moon-are-turning-a-restored-movie-threatre-in-hardisty-ab-into-a-venue-and-studio/) - Most people in the roots community know Over the Moon as a Juno-nominated, Canadian Folk Music Award-nominated duo who have made a name for themselves playing an array of genres we often lazily lump into "Americana." Well, in May, they're about to become venue and studio owners. "We noticed this 1950’s movie theatre for sale - [Toronto jam band Danceland has immortalized their dinner with Steve Earle in song](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/13/toronto-jam-band-danceland-has-immortalized-their-dinner-with-steve-earle-in-song/) - Just because Toronto’s Danceland owe their existence to The Grateful Dead doesn’t mean they can’t pay tribute to another musical legend when it’s warranted. Take “Steve Earle,” their new single that chronicles a night out on the town with the Nashville firebrand—a dinner to remember that, as it turns out, was put in motion by - [EP review: Hanson O - Serene Echoes](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/14/ep-review-hanson-o-serene-echoes/) - This EP from the very young Nigerian-born, Canadian beat maker Hanson Ogbegie is the kind of thing I imagine turning on late at night on Christmas Eve, when you’re not quite ready to go to bed yet and you just want to pour yourself a special drink, take in the lights of the Christmas tree - [Winterfolk XXIII celebrates 23 years of folk, blues and roots music in Toronto Feb 14-16](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/09/winterfolk-xxiii-celebrates-23-years-of-folk-blues-and-roots-music-in-toronto-feb-14-16/) - Winterfolk, Toronto’s beloved annual celebration of folk, blues, and roots music, returns for its 23rd year from Feb. 14–16 at the iconic Tranzac Club. This year’s festival promises an extraordinary mix of established artists, including Michael Jerome Browne, Dala, Donné Roberts, Russell deCarle, Amanda Rheaume and Tannis Slimmon, alongside emerging talent and community-driven performances, all set - [Home Routes announces tour schedule for Jan/Feb](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/11/home-routes-announces-tour-schedule-for-jan-feb/) - Following a successful fall 2024 season of live music tours across five provinces, Home Routes/Chemin Chez Nous is thrilled to kick off 2025 with the next chapter of its touring season this January and February. A diverse lineup of exceptional artists will hit the road, delivering world-class music to communities throughout British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, - [Album review: Avi C. Engel - Nocturne (Soundtrack for an Invisible Film)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/07/album-review-avi-c-engel-nocturne-soundtrack-for-an-invisible-film/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. All I had to do was look at the title of Avi C. Engel’s latest album, Nocturne (Soundtrack for an Invisible Film), to imagine what it might sound like. And I wasn’t disappointed. Dreamy, atmospheric, at times cinematic, at - [4 concerts to kick off the New Year at the Rogue Folk Club](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/08/4-concerts-to-kick-off-the-new-year-at-the-rogue-folk-club/) - Next weekend is going to be a heck of a weekend for live music, both in Vancouver and online. The Rogue has THREE shows in a span of four days. And when that's all over, you can still go see Catherine MacLellan at the end of the month. I sure hope you have some money - [6 New Year’s resolutions for roots music fans in 2025](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/06/6-new-years-resolutions-for-roots-music-fans-in-2025/) - If you’re like most people, you’ve either long given up on making New Year’s resolutions or you’ve long given up on keeping them. But part of the problem might be that you’re still aiming for the same old canards: lose weight, quit smoking, exercise more, eat better, etc. Let’s face it, major lifestyle changes take - [Evan Rotella releases 'Last Train Home,' schedules shows in Niagara Falls and Grimsby](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/04/evan-rotella-releases-last-train-home-schedules-shows-in-niagara-falls-and-grimsby/) - The train song is one of the most time-tested traditions in North American music. Yet when it’s done right, it feels just as fresh and affecting as the very first time an itinerant blues man rode the rails. The proud tradition continues in “Last Train Home,” the exquisite, mournful title track to Niagara Falls singer-songwriter - [Sarah Sokal debuts bold single 'Man Made' from new album Twisted Games](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/03/sarah-sokal-debuts-bold-single-man-made-from-new-album-twisted-games/) - After veering from the adult contemporary and pop worlds, Montreal blues singer Sarah Sokal is bringing a sensational and powerful new album, Twisted Games, to listeners led by a delectable, brawny single "Man Made." It's a beefy, bluesy, party-starting track that showcases Sarah's alluring and alarmingly strong pipes, keeping the blues alive by bridging the - [Aruna and the Sirens' country ballad, 'City Hotel' is a ballad about racist violence](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/03/aruna-and-the-sirens-country-ballad-city-hotel-is-a-ballad-about-racist-violence/) - Kingston-based musician Aruna Antonella Handa's recounts the stories of racist attacks in Ontario on the most recent single, "City Hotel," by her Toronto band, Aruna & the Sirens. The country ballad, released in October, was the first single to drop from the upcoming concept album about addiction and recovery. While most of the songs on - [Paul Corby](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/paul-corby-2/) - Paul Corby is the host of Corby's Orbit on Radio Regent Toronto and an occasional correspondent for Roots Music Canada. Abigail Lapell, Anniversary (Outside Music) Amanda Martinez, Recuerdo (Self) Boy Golden, For Eden (Six Shooter Records) Emily Triggs, The Great Escape (Self) Geoffroy, Good Boy (Self) Kevin Breit and Rebecca Jenkins, There’s This (Self) LuA, The Elephant (Self) Mustafa, Dunya (Arts & Crafts) Sandy Bell, Break Of Day / Songs For Colin (Self) - [Heather Kitching](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/heather-kitching-2/) - Heather Kitching: managing editor, Roots Music Canada Burnstick - Made of Sin (Independent) Brooks and Bowskill - Blissfull State of Mind (Ganaraska) Jay Gavin - Road Ready (Good Time Charlie's) Julian Taylor - Pathways (Howling Turtle) Kaia Kater - Strange Medicine (Acronym) Leaf Rapids - Velvet Paintings (Independent) Lori Yates - Matador (Laly) Mustafa - - [The Critics' Top 10 Albums of 2024](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/the-critics-top-10-albums-of-2024/) - Tie: Julian Taylor - Pathways (Howling Turtle) Terra Spencer - Sunset (Independent) Gillian Welch and David Rawlings - Woodland (Acony) Burnstick - Made of Sin (Independent) Tie: Ruth Moody - Wanderer (Independent) Rum Ragged - Gone Jiggin' (LHM) Tie: Afro Celt Sound System - Ova (Six Degrees) Vishtèn Connexions - Expansion (Corfus) Kaia Kater - [Jeff Robson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/jeff-robson-2/) - Jeff Robson: host of Tell the Band to Go Home on CJUM 101.5 UMFM in Winnipeg and Fly with your Shadow podcast Skinny Dyck, Easygoing (Victory Pool) Mike June, Modern American Folk Music (self) Jadea Kelly, Weather Girl (Tone Tree) Richard Laviolette, All Wild Things Are Shy (You’ve Changed) Leaf Rapids, Velvet Painting (self) MJ - [The Penguin Eggs Roots Music Canada Critics' New Discovery of the Year: Wyatt C. Louis](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/the-penguin-eggs-roots-music-canada-critics-new-discovery-of-the-year-wyatt-c-louis/) - Wyatt C. Louis is the 2024 Penguin Eggs Roots Music Canada Critics’ New Discovery of the Year. The Plains Cree singer-songwriter from Treaty Six territory released their debut full-length album, Chandler, this year and grabbed the attention of critics as far away as Prince Edward Island with their soulful voice, easygoing acoustic folk style and - [Past albums of the year and new discoveries of the year](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/past-albums-of-the-year-and-new-discoveries-of-the-year/) - 2023: William Prince, Stand in the Joy 2022: James Keelaghan, Second Hand (Borealis) 2021: Allison Russell, Outside Child (Fantasy Records) 2020: Pharis & Jason Romero, Bet On Love (Lula) 2019: The Small Glories, Assiboine & The Red (Red House) 2018: Pharis & Jason Romero, Sweet Old Religion (Lula) 2017: Rhiannon Giddens, Freedom Highyway (Nonesuch) 2016: - [The 2024 Penguin Eggs Roots Music Canada Critics' Albums of the Year are: Julian Taylor - Pathways and Terra Spencer - Sunset](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/the-2024-penguin-eggs-roots-music-canada-critics-albums-of-the-year-are-julian-taylor-pathways-and-terra-spencer-sunset/) - The critics made a decisive statement in 2024: there was not a single “best album of the year.” There were two. For the first time in its 24-year history, the Penguin Eggs Roots Music Canada Critics' Poll has ended in a tie for first place – between two albums that both convincingly pulled ahead of - [John Prentice](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/john-prentice-2/) - John Prentice: Host/Producer, Planet Mainstage, UMFM Radio Kiran Ahluwalia, Comfort Food (Six Degree Records) Boy Golden, For Eden (Six Shooter Records) Burnstick, Made of Sin (Independent) Cathy Fink Marcy Marxer and Chao Tian From China To Appalachia (Community Music) The Fretless, Glasswing (Birthday Cake) Kaia Kater, Strange Medicine (Free Dirt Records) Leaf Rapids, Velvet Paintings - [Patricia Fraser](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/patricia-fraser/) - Patricia Fraser, Celt In A Twist, CHKG/CJVB Radio Afro Celt Sound System, Ova (Six Degrees) Altan, Donegal (Compass Records) Capercaillie, ReLoved (Vertical Records) Gangar, Stubb (Helio) La Bottine Souriante, Domino (Wardlaw Music) Mary Frances, First Light (Independent) Open The Door For Three, A Prosperous Gale (Independent) ROS, Al foc (Microscopi) The Fretless, Glasswing (Birthday Cake) Vishten Connexions, Expansion (Independent) - [Ken Hunt](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/ken-hunt-2/) - Ken Hunt: Music historian and critic, and translator, Martin Carthy’s approved biographer, and English-language Lektor (writer-translator and editor) of the Rudolstadt Festival (1994 to date). Hlaskontrabas Oktet, Kaleidoscapes (Animal Music (Czech Republic) Lankum, Live in Dublin (Rough Trade) MichaelAnnJillo, I’ll Give You One More As You Go (Rezound) Angeline Morrison, Ophelia (Own Label) Mucha Quartet, - [Mike Regenstreif](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/mike-regenstreif-2/) - Mike Regenstreif: CKCU host/curator of Stranger Songs (weekly), Saturday Morning (every 4th week). American Patchwork Quartet, American Patchwork Quartet (Carolina Jasmine) Perla Batalla, A Letter to Leonard Cohen: Tribute to a Friend (Mechuda Music) Eric Bibb, Live at the Scala Theatre/In the Real World (Stony Plain) Grayson Capps, Heartbreak, Misery & Death (Royal Potato Family) - [Jim Marino](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/jim-marino/) - Jim Marino: Host, Freewheeling Folk Show, 93.3 CFMU (cfmu.ca) Burnstick, Made of Sin (Independent) Lynne Hanson, Just a Poet (Panda Cave) Tim Isberg, Prairie Fire (Independent) Ruth Moody, Wanderer (Blue Muse) The Once, Out Here (Directly) Genevieve Racette, Golden (Independent) Rum Ragged, Gone Jiggin’ (LHM) Terra Spencer, Sunset (Independent) Jeffrey Straker, Great Big Sky (Jeffrey - [Broose Tulloch](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/broose-tulloch/) - Broose Tulloch: Host of Beer For Breakfast on 101.5 CJUM FM in Winnipeg, MB. Madeleine Roger - Nerve Boy Golden - For Eden Ruth Moody - Wanderer Burnstick - Made Of Sin Lana Winterhalt - Recovering Theatre Kid Sean Burns - Lost Country Field Guide - Rootin’ For Ya Big Dave McLean - This Old - [Cal Koat](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/cal-koat/) - Cal Koat: Host/producer, World Beat Canada Radio Afro Celt Sound System, Ova (Six Degrees) Baiuca, Barullo (raso estudio) Buzz Ayaz, Buzz Ayaz (Glitterbeat) DJ Raff, Encontrar (Nacional) Galathea, Sacred Love (Space Echo) Kiran Ahluwalia, Comfort Food (Independent) Kit Sebastian, New Internationale (BrainFeeder) La Yergos, Haz (X-Ray Productions) Manu Chao, Viva Tu (Radio Bemba) The Zawose - [Jason Schneider](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/jason-schneider-2/) - Jason Schneider: author and publicist, Jason Schneider Media Brittany Howard, What Now (Island) Charley Crockett, $10 Cowboy (Son Of Davy) Gary Clark Jr., JPEG Raw (Warner) Gillian Welch & David Rawlings, Woodland (Acony) Jack White, No Name (Third Man) Mdou Moctar, Funeral For Justice (Matador) MJ Lenderman, Manning Fireworks (Anti-) Nick Cave and the Bad - [Jan Vanderhorst](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/jan-vanderhorst-2/) - Jan Vanderhorst: Host, Just Us Folk, www.justusfolk.com Beppe Gambetta, Terra Madre (AMSC) Good Lovelies, We Will Never Be The Same (Outside Music) Lucy MacNeil, Angels Whisper (Independent) Geneviève Racette, Golden (Independent) Tom Rush, Gardens Old, Flowers New (Independent) Terra Spencer, Sunset (Independent) Julian Taylor, Pathways (Independent) Jefferey Straker, Great Big Sky (Independent) The Once, Out - [Dinny Knowles](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/dinny-knowles-2/) - Dinny Knowles: Host, What the Folk, CFRO 100.5 FM Jack Barksdale, "Out of Order" (Handmade Records) Eric Bibb, "Live at the Scala Theater" (Repute Records) Blue Moon Marquee, "New Orleans Sessions" (Bigtone Records) Leon Bridges, "Leon" (Columbia Records) Sue Foley, "One Guitar Woman" (Stony Plain Records) Hayley Heynderickx, "Seed of a Seed" (Mama Bird Label) - [Steve Edge](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/steve-edge/) - Steve Edge, Host / Producer: The Saturday Edge On Folk, www.citr.ca and Artistic Director of Rogue Folk Club in Vancouver BC Afro Celtic Sound System, Ova, (Six Degrees Records) Cathy Jordan, Crankie Island Song Project, (Cathy Jordan) Dave Alvin & Jimmie Dale Gilmore, TexiCali, (Yep Roc Records) Martin Simpson, Skydancers, (Topic Records) Mauro Durante & Justin - [Will Chernoff](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/will-chernoff-2/) - Will Chernoff: Founder & editor, Rhythm Changes, rhythmchanges.ca. Adrianne Lenker, Bright Future (4AD) Arooj Aftab, Night Reign (Verve) Bill Frisell, Orchestras (Live) (Blue Note) Bruno Hubert, Fire Waltz (Cellar Music) Charles Lloyd, The Sky Will Still Be There Tomorrow (Blue Note) Jim Rotondi, Finesse (Cellar Music) Josh Johnson, Unusual Object (Northern Spy) Madeleine Roger, Nerve - [Anne-Marie Brugger](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/anne-marie-brugger-2/) - Anne-Marie Brugger: radio broadcaster from Ottawa, ON and interim station director at CKCU-FM. Charlie A’Court, San Palarino Tony D, Modern Times Angeliques Francis, Train Coming Old Man Luedecke, Domestic Eccentric Amanda Rheaume, Annie’s Whip Rory Taillon, Hatchet Andy Shauf, Norm Terra Spencer, Sunset Kristine St-Pierre, Love & Vulnerability Julian Taylor, Pathways New discoveries: Bobby Dove - [Paul Norton](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/paul-norton-2/) - Paul Norton: one of the hosts of What The Folk’ on CFRO Vancouver Coop Radio and the publicist at the Rogue Folk Club Brandon Isaak, One Step Closer (Indie) Cathy Fink and Marcy Marxer with Chao Tian, From China To Appalachia (Community) David Vest & Terry Robb, Crisscross (Cordova Bay) Gillian Welch & David Rawlings, - [Tom Coxworth](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/tom-coxworth-2/) - Tom Coxworth: host, Folk Routes, CKUA Radio Bonnie Light Horseman, See You Free (Jagjaguwar) Rose Morrison, The River She Knows (Independent) Preeper Rhaye MacKay, Wood & Wire (Scout Records) Phyllis Sinclair, Kiyam (Independent) Terra Spencer, Sunset (Independent) Julian Taylor, Pathways, (Howling Turtle) Morgan Toney, Resilience (Ishkode) Twin Flames, Hugging the Cactus (Independent) Lori Yates, Matador - [Les Siemieniuk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/les-siemieniuk-2/) - Les Siemieniuk: ex-CBC radio and music producer and ex general manager of the Calgary Folk Music Festival Bonny Light Horseman, Keep Me on Your Mind See You Free (Jagjaguwar) Caleigh Cardinal, Boundless Possibilities (self-released) Gillian Welch and David Rawlings, Woodland (Acony records) Hurray for the Riff Raff, The Past is Still Alive (Nonesuch) Martin Simpson, - [Alan Greyeyes](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/alan-greyeyes-2/) - Alan Greyeyes: Festival Director, s?kihiw? festival Aysanabee, Here and Now (Deluxe Edition) (Ishkode Records) Celeigh Cardinal, Boundless Possibilities (Celeigh Cardinal) Joel Wood, Nîkan (Joel Wood) Julian Taylor, Pathways (Howling Turtle) Northern Cree, REZilience (Hidden Lake Recordings) Ruby Waters, What's The Point (Ruby Waters) Snotty Nose Rez Kids, RED FUTURE (Sony Music Entertainment Canada Inc.) That Mexican - [Bill Garrett](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/bill-garrett-2/) - Bill Garrett: artist, record producer, co-founder of Borealis Records The Andrew Collins Trio, The Rule of Three (Sytesounds Music) Braden Gates, tamin’ the monkey (Self) Derina Harvey, Waves of Home (self) Kaïa Kater, Strange Medicine (Acronym Records) Mélisande, Rembobine, (Disques Passport) Allison Russell / Hozier, Wildflower And Barley (Fantasy) Roger McGuinn, Chris HIllman, Marty Stuart - [Chris White](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/chris-white/) - Chris White: Host, Canadian Spaces, CKCU FM, Ottawa Abigail Lapell, Anniversary (Outside Music) Beth Gibbons, Lives Outgrown (Domino Recording Company) Burnstick, Made of Sin (Independent) Julian Taylor, Pathways (Howling Turtle Inc.) Kellylee Evans, Winter Song (Decca) Kristine St-Pierre, Love & Vulnerability (Independent) Lynne Hanson, Just A Poet (Panda Cave Records) Mary Gick, Six Tunes And - [Brian Gladstone](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/brian-gladstone-2/) - Brian Gladstone: festival director - Winterfolk Camie, Poems in the Ashes, (Independent) Dan Mangan, Being Elsewhere Mix (Arts & Crafts) Elliott Brood, Country (Paper Bag Records) Howard Gladstone, Crazy Talk (Sonic Peach Music) Lynn Miles, TumbleWeedyWorld (True North Records) Lynne Hanson, Just a Poet (N/A) Myriam Gendron, Mayday (Independent) Rum Ragged, Gone Jiggin' (Independent) Terra - [Doug Gallant](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/doug-gallant/) - Doug Gallant: freelance writer Maggie Rose, No One Gets Out Alive Gillian Welch and David Rawlings, Woodland Amos Lee, Transmissions Eric Bibb, In The Real World Richard Thompson, Ship To Shore T-Bone Burnett, The Other Side Old 97’s, American Primitive Sugar Brown, Toronto Bound Matt Andersen, Halfway Home By Morning Colin James, Chasing The Sun - [Fiona Black](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/fiona-black/) - Fiona Black, Director of programming, BlueShore at CapU and artistic director, Vancouver Folk Music Festival Ballaké Sissoko & Derek Gripper, Self-Titled (Matsuli Music Limited) Bonny Light Horseman, Keep Me On Your Mind/See You Free (Jagjaguwar) Gillian Welch/David Rawlings, Woodland, (Acony Records) Julian Lage, Speak to Me, (Blue Note) Justin Adams/Mauro Durante, Sweet Release, (Ponderosa Records) - [Glen Herbert](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/glen-herbert-2/) - Glen Herbert: Writer and editor Norman Blake, Pilgrimage to Rising Fawn (Avondale Records) Jerry Douglas, The Set (Nolivan Records) Laurie Lewis, Trees (Spruce and Maple Music) Ryan and Friends, Ryan and Friends Vol. 2 (Independent) The Secret Sisters, Mind Man Medicine (New West Records) Chris Smither, All About the Bones (Signature Sounds Recordings) Andy Statman, - [Derek Andrews](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2025/01/02/derek-andrews/) - Derek Andrews: Performing arts manager, Aurora Cultural Centre, consultant (Global Cafe). Amir Amiri Ensemble, Ajdad - Ancestors: Echoes of Persia, (Fifth House Records) Cherie Camp, Love and Blood (November Records) George Crotty, The Task At Hand, (Independent) Fränder, II, (Nordic Notes) Jason Wilson, Ashara (Wheel Records) Talia Schlanger, Grace For The Going, (Independent) Mehdi Rostami, Melodic - [Gordy the Moose's 10 favourite new finds of 2024 from the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/30/gordy-the-mooses-10-favourite-new-finds-of-2024-from-the-roots-music-canada-virtual-mailbox/) - Each week, Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. Here's what stood out for him this year. Brooks and Bowskill - Blissful State of Mind Jim Bowskill and Brittany Brooks had the beginnings of a tasty little sound going on their 2023 full-length debut, Too Many - [The Top 10 stories of 2024](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/31/the-top-10-stories-of-2024/) - It's always exciting to check out our Roots Music Canada readership statistics to see what kinds of stories you've been gravitating toward each year. But this year was extra special — because of how many new music stories you loved! We here at Roots Music Canada live for celebrating new Canadian roots music, and we're - [Report examines the value of Black music in the Canadian music industry](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/28/report-examines-the-value-of-black-music-in-the-canadian-music-industry/) - Canada’s Black music business collective ADVANCE, recently published a research study in partnership with Toronto Metropolitan University’s Diversity Institute, to examine the value of Black music in the Canadian music industry. The industry analysis reveals how Black music is a cultural force and a revenue powerhouse, as Black musicians and industry professionals continue to drive - [Curbside Concerts adds Tracy Posadowski and Tom Yeates as business expands](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/27/curbside-concerts-adds-tracy-posadowski-and-tom-yeates-as-business-expands/) - A company that launched in 2020 offering outdoor concerts in residential neighbourhoods from the back of Matt Masters' van has now hired two new managing directors to oversee its growing national operation. Curbside Concerts announced that Tracy Posadowski and Tom Yeates have joined their team to head sales and marketing. The goal is to enter - [The 12 Days of Roots Music Canada Christmas](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/24/the-12-days-of-roots-music-canada-christmas/) - For the holiday season, here's a little song about how Roots Music Canada gets made. One the first day of Christmas, my true love gave to me some new music under the tree One the second day of Christmas, my true love gave to me two Jason’s Jukeboxes And some new music under the tree - [S.G. Sinnicks' 'Miss America 2.0' feels even more relevant now than two months ago](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/27/s-g-sinnicks-miss-america-2-0-feels-even-more-relevant-now-than-two-months-ago/) - Hamilton-based alternative folk singer S.G. Sinnicks released a new version of "Miss America 2.0" before the U.S. election, but it somehow feels even more relevant today than it did then. For S.G., the song is "equal parts love song and lament" from the standpoint "of a neutral observer." https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HsAoGlzmHdw "I spent so many years playing - [Carla Muller spreads holiday cheer with Snow Came Falling album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/24/carla-muller-spreads-holiday-cheer-with-snow-came-falling-album/) - Snow Came Falling is a new Christmas album by Woolwich, ON folk singer Carla Muller that is inspired by her father and family. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K8YdwWcPtQk "I wanted to make a Christmas album for my dad with some of his favorite songs on it," Carla said. "And I did, although it was only really a demo album. - [Why Kat Goldman teamed up with a novice 81-year-old co-writer for 'New Orleans Christmas Day'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/24/why-kat-goldman-teamed-up-with-a-novice-81-year-old-co-writer-for-new-orleans-christmas-day/) - Toronto singer-songwriter Kat Goldman teams up with senior citizen Joel Claener one the single "New Orleans Christmas Day," a soothing Yuletide number packing plenty of musical accents that makes you think of the Big Easy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OmbhCPLYp_A The song's origins date back to Kat establishing her own business entitled Songwriting For Seniors and posting a sign - [Album review: Brooks and Bowskill - Blissful State of Mind](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/23/album-review-brooks-and-bowskill-blissful-state-of-mind/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. Jim Bowskill and Brittany Brooks had the beginnings of a tasty little sound going on their 2023 full-length debut, Too Many Roads. Now, a year later, all those ideas have marinaded into one hell of a musical dish on - [How Sultans of String turned Walking Through the Fire into a visual album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/21/how-sultans-of-string-turned-walking-through-the-fire-into-a-visual-album/) - Walking Through The Fire-Visual Album is a documentary that has at its genesis a challenge from Dr. Duke Redbird to Sultans Of String co-founder Chris McKhool to collaborate with Indigenous artists in the spirit of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s 94 Calls to Action and Final Report. What initially started as just an album project - [Trent Agecoutay honours his father's Legacy with 'Burn A Smudge'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/20/trent-agecoutay-honours-his-fathers-legacy-with-burn-a-smudge/) - As a child, Cowessess First Nation band member Trent Agecoutay would listen to his father, Jim Agecoutay, craft songs at the family's kitchen table. With a tape recorder, cigarette and pot of coffee at the ready as his father wrote, Trent's admiration for his father's music grew. Now, Trent is honoring his late father with - [Americana artist KC Armstrong declares 'I Don't Care' in brassy, piano-tinged single](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/19/americana-artist-kc-armstrong-declares-i-dont-care-in-brassy-piano-tinged-single/) - Brantford, ON-based artist KC Armstrong has had a long, illustrious career thanks to fine songwriting and fun, infectious arrangements that pack a wallop. And although the title might lead you to think otherwise, "I Don't Care" is a great, Americana-laced barroom keeper off his Finally Crafted effort that proves KC definitely does care about offering - [Here are your 2024 Music PEI Award nominees](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/19/here-are-your-2024-music-pei-award-nominees/) - Music PEI announced the nominees for the Music PEI Awards last week, and there are some familiar names on that list in the roots categories. Notably, fiddle sensation Richard Wood, Vishtèn Connexions, Inn Echo and Dylan Menzie. The awards will be handed up during Music PEI Week March 4-8. Early Bird Festival Passes are on - [Concert review: The Barrel Boys Christmas show - Dec. 13 at Red Bird, Ottawa](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/19/concert-review-the-barrel-boys-christmas-show-dec-13-at-red-bird-ottawa/) - Powerhouse bluegrass act the Barrel Boys brought their annual Christmas show to Red Bird Live on Friday showcasing their rich vocal harmonies, down-to-earth stage presence, and holiday spirit. Carols from the Barrel features a mixture of classic carols and original compositions. Established in 2012, The Barrel Boys are a five-piece acoustic string band with Nathan - [Folk Rocker Mike Bern releases reflective 'We Are The Stars'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/18/folk-rocker-mike-bern-releases-reflective-we-are-the-stars/) - Songwriters can find inspiration at any place at any time. For Indigenous folk rocker Mike Bern, a yard sale discovery was the seed that fueled his latest and possibly greatest effort, "We Are The Stars," a beautiful ballad that is sure to join previous singles on the Indigenous Music Countdown. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1FMuEw_PyJc A native of Tobique - [Album review: Locarno - Colibri Caliope](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/17/album-review-locarno-colibri-caliope/) - I have a confession to make. I can still remember the exact moment at least 20 years ago when Tom Landa told me he was Mexican. I remember it because Tom, by this point, was the leader of the Juno-winning Paperboys, the wildly popular Celtic crossover band that has toured the world. And I made - [Folk artist Kele Fleming explores AI's reality with profound new single "Turing Test"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/16/folk-artist-kele-fleming-explores-ais-reality-with-profound-new-single-turing-test/) - It's rare that a song is named after a test which is "used to assess a machine's ability to exhibit intelligent behavior indistinguishable from that of a human." But for Vancouver-born, Victoria-based indie folk pop artist Kele Fleming, there's proof of a beating heart in the stellar new single "Turing Test." Simply put, no amount - [Bad Tractor keeps the Canadian DIY spirit alive on new album Inland Sea](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/13/bad-tractor-keeps-the-canadian-diy-spirit-alive-on-new-album-inland-sea/) - On their new album Inland Sea, Bad Tractor fuses their country, punk and psychedelic influences into a sound that can truly be described as their own. Following in the sonic footsteps of forebears like The Mekons and The Sadies, the five-piece band based in the wilds of eastern Ontario are in many ways a reflection - [Boreal is ringing in the snowy season with their new album Winterbirds](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/14/boreal-is-ringing-in-the-snowy-season-with-their-new-album-winterbirds/) - In 2014 the Guelph, ON based trio Boreal, featuring singer-songwriters Tannis Slimmon, Katherine Wheatley and Jude Vadala, released their debut album Winter’s Welcome. With interpretations of well-known seasonal songs and their own original compositions about winter, the album came out of touring throughout the province since 2009 with their show “Songs For The Snowy Season”. - [Album review: Aerialists - I Lost My Heart On Friday](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/12/album-review-aerialists-i-lost-my-heart-on-friday/) - Aerialists, the Juno-nominated neo-trad, folk, and Celtic ensemble released their third album, called I Lost My Heart On Friday, this fall through Fiddlehead Records. The Toronto band combines their deep roots in Scottish, Irish, and Nordic folk traditions with post rock influences to create an all instrumental album. It’s the perfect mix of traditional Celtic - [8 shows to see at the Rogue Folk Club in November (!!)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/22/8-shows-to-see-at-the-rogue-folk-club-in-november/) - The bad news is, it's started to get toward winter. The good news is, there will be lots of great shows to help us get through. The Rogue Folk Club has eight of 'em — eight! — in November alone, and you don't have to be in Vancouver to see them because the Rogue, may - [Here's your holiday line-up of December shows from the Rogue Folk Club](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/02/heres-your-holiday-line-up-of-december-shows-from-the-rogue-folk-club/) - The Rogue Folk Club truly has curated a fantastic seasonal line-up for December, with offerings ranging from classic southern church music to a festive annual hot jazz extravaganza and a mid-winter musical exploration of our connection to nature. And as always, people anywhere in the world can watch these shows thanks to online ticketing (Thank - [A video dance shoot for The Memberz's dancehall hit 'Addis Ababa'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/11/a-video-dance-shoot-for-the-memberzs-dancehall-hit-addis-ababa/) - The Memberz is a Toronto reggae and dancehall band, currently burgeoning in popularity, scope, style, and size as the release date of their debut album approaches. The most recent milestone has been the addition of their fourth single, “Addis Ababa,” to playlists on campus / community radio and on the CBC, while it begins to - [Calgary soul and blues powerhouse Ollee Owens' new album Nowhere to Hide is out now](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/11/calgary-soul-and-blues-powerhouse-ollee-owens-new-album-nowhere-to-hide-is-out-now/) - Canadian soul and blues singer Ollee Owens' new album, Nowhere to Hide is out now on her Ollee Owens Music label imprint. Produced by Bobby Blazier, the music is graced by the presence of Muscle Shoals all-star guitarist Will McFarlane on eight of the album’s eleven tracks. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=66rhpE1-yr8 “The writing of ‘Some Days’ came out of - [EP review: Sarah Jane Scouten - Transmutations](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/10/ep-review-sarah-jane-scouten-transmutations/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. Sarah Jane Scouten released Transmutations on Remembrance Day, and that’s no doubt because the EP is really a vehicle for its one new song, “Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry,” a song about a woman who nearly dies giving birth, - [Check out the Canadians nominated for International Folk Music Awards](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/09/check-out-the-canadians-nominated-for-international-folk-music-awards/) - Folk Alliance International has announced its International Folk Music Awards recipients and its Best of 2024 nominees. The awards take place on the first night of FAI’s 37th annual conference, which takes place Feb. 19-23 in Montréal, QC. Grammy Award-winners the Indigo Girls will receive one of FAI’s Lifetime Achievement Awards for their career as - [Matthew Lien releases 25th album, Full Circle, in immersive binaural format; listen with earphones!](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/05/matthew-lien-releases-25th-album-in-immersive-binaural-format-listen-with-earphones/) - Yukon musician/producer Matthew Lien has released his 25th album and his most ambitious to date. Seven years in the making, Full Circle features Matthew’s trademark spanning of acoustic styles from folk to pop wrapped up in environmental soundscapes. And all of it has been produced in Matthew’s new award-winning immersive format developed especially for earphones. - [Toronto's Old Hoss shares his experience of a 'Small Town Christmas Eve' on his latest single](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/06/torontos-old-hoss-shares-his-experience-of-a-small-town-christmas-eve-on-his-latest-single/) - If you're already familiar with Mid-Atlantic, the debut album by Toronto's Old Hoss, then the song "Small Town Christmas Eve" should have a spot reserved on your seasonal playlist. But for the uninitiated, "Small Town Christmas Eve" is a timely introduction to Old Hoss' raw brand of garage country. Old Hoss is the alter ego - [Review: The 37th annual Women's Blues Review - Nov. 29 at Massey Hall, Toronto](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/04/review-the-37th-annual-womens-blues-review-nov-29-at-massey-hall-toronto/) - Clad in spandex and sparkle, the Toronto Blues Society’s new chair, Quisha Wint, stepped onstage and used her silvery brocaded wingspan to hush down the crammed crowd at Massey Hall last Friday night. She then proceeded to introduce the 37th annual Women’s Blues Revue. Ms. Wint began her hosting duties by acknowledging the guidance of - [Roots Music Canada is now on Bluesky](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/05/roots-music-canada-is-now-on-bluesky/) - Truth be told, we needed a new social media platform like we needed a hole in the head. Lets face it, we've all tried building relationships with social networks, and every time, we’ve gotten burned. Back when Facebook was shiny and new, we invited you to follow us, thinking we could tell you about new - [Check out Ken Whiteley's joyful lullaby single 'Hole In The Clouds' from Unseen Hands](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/07/check-out-ken-whiteleys-joyful-lullaby-single-hole-in-the-clouds-from-unseen-hands/) - Toronto-based folk-singer-songwriter Ken Whiteley has crafted beautiful songs that have piqued the interest of children, gospel fans, and lovers of tasteful, highbrow folk music. Now Ken has again added to his rich discography with his latest single, "Hole In The Clouds," from his timely, tranquil, and tremendously solid studio album Unseen Hands. For Ken, the - [Hollowsage & the Three Mile Islanders' latest single contemplates the end of the world](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/09/hollowsage-the-three-mile-islanders-latest-single-contemplates-the-end-of-the-world/) - When a song begins with the line “There has been a rip in the fabric/ Of the spacetime continuum,” you know the artist has a little something weightier on their mind than wanting to dance with somebody who loves them. And “Supernova Spacetime Continuum” signals that's the case for Sault Ste. Marie-born, Uxbridge-based psychedelic folk-rockers - [Check out Eugene Ripper's folk punk renditions of 'Hallelujah' and 'Four Strong Winds'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/07/check-out-eugene-rippers-folk-punk-renditions-of-hallelujah-and-four-strong-winds/) - Eugene Ripper might not be mistaken for Leonard Cohen or Ian Tyson, but the Toronto-based punk folk pioneer has put his own unique spin on their signatures with the gorgeous double-A side release featuring Cohen's memorable "Hallelujah" and Tyson's timeless "Four Strong Winds." It's a pair of covers that stay true to the originals while - [Sarah Burton releases double singles "Sorry" and "Oklahoma" from Swoonville USA](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/06/sarah-burton-delivers-americana-excellence-with-double-singles-sorry-and-oklahoma-from-swoonville-usa/) - Sarah Burton continues to ride high in 2024 with a brilliant collection of Americana roots music from her Swoonville USA album. Now the Ottawa-born, Toronto and Texas-based singer-songwriter is back with one of the year's better double A-side releases in "Sorry" and "Oklahoma." Although both are different in terms of structure, style, and sound, the - [Matt Zaddy releases 'Far Too Long'; schedules Port Credit shows for December](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/04/matt-zaddy-releases-far-too-long-schedules-port-credit-shows-for-december/) - The daily grind can leave a person feeling helpless and physically and mentally exhausted. Mississauga, ON-based folk rock artist Matt Zaddy has described that situation vividly in "Far Too Long," his latest single, which shines with its Americana, alt-country flavoring. It's also a song that hit close to home for the musician who was burning - [Tyler Mullendore's single 'Mama Cry' from his debut EP is a musical intervention letter](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/03/tyler-mullendores-single-mama-cry-from-his-debut-ep-is-a-musical-intervention-letter/) - Americana artist Tyler Mullendore addresses addiction honestly and movingly on "Mama Cry," a soothing single from his debut EP Time Heals Everything. It's a song Tyler says hits quite close to home. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IRVrAgk6lGQ "'Mama Cry' is probably the most emotional song on the record, and it's very personal to me," said Tyler, a native of - [Single review: Rachel Kane - 'Follow You Down'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/03/single-review-rachel-kane-follow-you-down/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. Rachel Kane - "Follow You Down" Rachel Kane! Where have you been all these years?! You seemed to come out of nowhere back around the turn of the millennium, and then you just kind of disappeared again. But I - [Check out Stephen Fearing's brand new single out today](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/29/check-out-stephen-fearings-brand-new-single-out-today/) - Juno Award-winning roots troubadour Stephen Fearing releases a new single, “Bring This Song,” today from his 13th album, The Empathist, coming out in early 2025. "Bring This Song" is an anthemic, majestic tribute to the healing power of music and its ability to serve as a spark of inspiration. Riding a bright, strong horn section, - [Craig Robertson shares latest single and video 'I Never Know What's on Your Mind'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/29/craig-robertson-shares-latest-single-and-video-i-never-know-whats-on-your-mind/) - As singer-songwriter Craig Robertson continues to earn accolades for his latest album, Running the Other Way, he's offering a new video for the song "I Never Know What's on Your Mind." As one of the record's standout tracks that probes the depths of interpersonal relationships, its bittersweet lyrics are complemented by a haunting arrangement that - [How Ronnie Douglas settled on the album cover for Music is Medicine](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/30/how-ronnie-douglas-settled-on-the-album-cover-for-music-is-medicine/) - There are songs we all know that came from dreams. “Yesterday” and “Let It Be” by the Beatles are just two that come to mind right away. But dreams can also be the source of album covers. Just ask Rama First Nation singer-songwriter Ronnie Douglas about the cover of his album Music is Medicine. “In - [Guitarist Frank Cosentino's new album is a Comeback after getting sober](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/28/guitarist-frank-cosentinos-new-album-is-a-comeback-after-getting-sober/) - After more than four decades of touring, writing, and producing new music, blues rock guitarist Frank Cosentino realized he needed to change his lifestyle. https://youtu.be/12laVOvBh38?si=ioQKX1tTlvBF9FmU “I overcame the challenges of addiction and got sober seven years ago,” he said. “With renewed inspiration, I returned to songwriting with increased focus and energy.” After working with producer - [Blues musician Sugar Brown's 'Toronto Bound' tells the story of his journey to Canada](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/27/blues-musician-sugar-browns-toronto-bound-tells-the-story-of-his-journey-to-canada/) - Toronto-based blues musician Ken Kawashima (a.k.a. Sugar Brown) documents his life as a semi-itinerant musician on the gorgeous new single "Toronto Bound," the title track of his latest studio album. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XlLwnjzQLMY The song, inspired in part by the 1954 blues song "Chicago Bound" by Muddy Waters' guitarist Jimmy Rogers, is a lyrical recounting of Ken's - [Single reviews: Shane Pendergast, Sue and Dwight & Garnetta Cromwell](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/26/single-reviews-shane-pendergast-sue-and-dwight-garnetta-cromwell/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. Shane Pendergast - “Only Drifting By” Shane Pendergast’s second most recent single is as wholesome a breakup song as a breakup song can be. “Only Drifting By” is really about a relationship that was never meant to be to - [Exclusive: Lisa Iesse visits Geneviève Racette's soundcheck to talk about Golden](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/25/exclusive-lisa-iesse-visits-genevieve-racettes-soundcheck-to-talk-about-golden/) - Geneviève Racette delivered a stellar performance of her newly released fourth album, Golden, to a mesmerized audience at The Burdock in Toronto on Friday. With Golden, Geneviève channels an unfiltered vulnerability crystallized from a rare alchemy of storytelling and sound that’s as good as gold. It has been almost six weeks of touring and performing - [Larry Folk reworks anti-Apartheid song as anthem against political polarization](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/12/02/larry-folk-reworks-anti-apartheid-song-as-anthem-against-political-polarization/) - Toronto folksinger Larry Folk offers a call for unity in the face of polarization with his warm, inviting single "There Is A Power." The poly-rhythmic song was inspired in part by the 1986 Mark Mathabane autobiography Kaffir Boy, which appeared on the New York Times bestseller lists detailing life under South Africa's Apartheid regime and - [Francine Honey is promoting Rockets In My Boots, Vol II after retiring from the road](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/30/francine-honey-is-promoting-rockets-in-my-boots-vol-ii-after-retiring-from-the-road/) - A feeling of transition emanates from every note of Francine Honey’s single, “Unfinished Business.” And that’s totally appropriate for an artist who recently announced her retirement from the road so she can concentrate on the studio. Inspired by a dream she once had of a timeless love in a canyon, the song explores the themes - [Indigenous blues musician D.M. Lafortune reissues 'Where Are All The Children?'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/28/indigenous-blues-musician-d-m-lafortune-celebrates-25th-anniversary-of-beauty-and-hard-times-album-with-harrowing-single-where-are-all-the-children/) - Toronto Indigenous Blues artist D.M. Lafortune continues to revisit her stellar Beauty and Hard Times album with the latest single "Where Are All The Children?" It's a song that is wide-ranging, universal and addresses the injustices, wars and conflicts from the Middle East to Central America and beyond. But it also speaks to the tragedy - [Joel Lee channels hip hop and Forrest Gump on his up-temp country song 'Jump Jump'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/27/joel-lee-channels-hip-hop-and-forrest-gump-on-his-up-temp-country-song-jump-jump/) - Nanaimo, BC-based country rock musician Joel Lee found himself tiring of the standard topics of country songs. Whether it was the breakups, the cheating, or the ballads of beer-soaked regret Joel was over it and seeking something new, fun, and exciting. It sounds like his latest single "Jump Jump" more than satisfied that need for - [Singer-songwriter John Dawson evokes Ron Sexsmith on 'Life Just Came to Me'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/25/singer-songwriter-john-dawson-evokes-ron-sexsmith-on-life-just-came-to-me/) - There are times in life where you're not sure what direction to go or where to turn. But, looking back, you realize what happened was exactly what was supposed to happen. That situation is captured perfectly on "Life Just Came to Me," a gentle, toe-tapping single courtesy of Newmarket, ON-based folk roots musician John Dawson - ['Grab Yourself A Cold One' to celebrate John Lewitt's recent film and TV success](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/26/grab-yourself-a-cold-one-to-celebrate-john-lewitts-recent-film-and-tv-success/) - Toronto-based Americana-leaning singer-songwriter John Lewitt has been a busy artist in recent years. He's just celebrated the 10th anniversary of his debut album, Good Intentions. His song "Anticipation" was selected to appear in the horror film, Murmur. And his song "From Now On" has appeared multiple times on the Young and the Restless. It's the - [Zachary Lucky is on the road like never before with The Wind](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/23/zachary-lucky-is-on-the-road-like-never-before-with-the-wind/) - A few years ago singer-songwriter Zachary Lucky was on his way to a festival in northern Saskatchewan. Stopping to take a break, he stood by the side of the gravel road and took in the vista before him. “There was just the hum of the wind across the plains and the grasses moving,” he related - [Johnny 99 (City and Colour's John Sponarski) returns with 'It Can't Be Christmas' single](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/22/johnny-99-city-and-colours-john-sponarski-returns-with-it-cant-be-christmas-single/) - John Sponarski is perhaps best known as a guitarist in City and Colour, but under his alter ego, Johnny 99, he has been making original country music in a classic honky tonk style for much longer. Since releasing the debut Johnny 99 LP Words Left Unsaid in 2021, his duties with City and Colour have - [5 Canadian folk/roots crossover songs for Taylor Swift fans to discover](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/21/5-canadian-folk-roots-crossover-songs-for-taylor-swift-fans-to-discover/) - Credit where credit is due: I'm shamelessly stealing the idea for this story from music manager and music industry climate consultant Kim Fry. Like me, she's been watching the Taylor Swift lovefest in Toronto this week with a mixture of enjoyment and regret — enjoyment because how can you not love the sight of tens - [Blues rocker Tony D returns with new solo album 'Electric Delta'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/20/blues-rocker-tony-d-returns-with-new-solo-album-electric-delta/) - For over two decades, Tony Diteodoro, better known as Tony D, has brought the house down from coast to coast and internationally with his fantastic blues rock. Whether as the lead singer of the Juno-Award winning group MonkeyJunk or as a sideman to the likes of Paul Reddick and the late Dutch Mason, Tony D - [Album review: Ian Sherwood - Broken Little Heart; EP review: Al Brant - Fire and Time](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/19/album-review-ian-sherwood-broken-little-heart-ep-review-al-brant-fire-and-time/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. Ian Sherwood - Broken Little Heart Ian Sherwood may have a broken little heart, but he never descends to the maudlin or self-indulgent on this new album. In fact, Ian has a sound that is deceptively breezy and easygoing - [Dennis Ellsworth teams with Jim Bryson for new LP Hardcore Freewheelin' coming in Feb](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/15/dennis-ellsworth-teams-with-jim-bryson-for-new-lp-hardcore-freewheelin-coming-in-feb/) - Following the success of his 2023 album Modern Hope – nominated for Solo Recording of the Year at the East Coast Music Awards – Canadian singer-songwriter Dennis Ellsworth is gearing up to return with another stunning collection of his trademark blend of folk and power pop. Hardcore Freewheelin’ — set for release this February on - [Congratulations to the 2024 Music Nova Scotia Award winners in the roots categories](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/13/congratulations-to-the-2024-music-nova-scotia-award-winners-in-the-roots-categories/) - Music Nova Scotia handed out its 2024 awards on Sunday morning at a boozy brunch at Acadia University in Wolfville, NS. This year's Entertainer of the Year prize went to Cape Breton country rocker Elyse Aeryn while Pop Recording of the Year went to Neon Dreams. The big winner was Daniel James McFadyen, who took - [Denielle Bassels releases 'Lighthouse' single from forthcoming new album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/14/denielle-bassels-releases-lighthouse-single-from-forthcoming-new-album/) - Toronto-based, Juno-nominated artist Denielle Bassels has released her first single “Lighthouse,” from her upcoming third album, It Goes Like This, slated for release in February 2025. Following her highly-acclaimed, Juno-nominated Little Bit a’ Love, the new album promises a daring, imaginative journey – think Ella Fitzgerald’s grace clashing with Moby Dick’s epic narrative, or Nina - [How the Good Lovelies have come to finish each other's musical sentences](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/16/how-the-good-lovelies-have-come-to-finish-each-others-musical-sentences/) - As a group that puts a high priority on vocal harmonies, the Good Lovelies have seemingly developed the ability to read each other’s minds when it comes to figuring out what to do with each song they sing. It stands to reason that after 18 years together, Kerri Ough, Sue Passmore and Caroline Brooks would - [Bluesman Frank Cosentino releases 'Making the Rounds'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/14/bluesman-frank-cosentino-releases-making-the-rounds/) - A musician's life can sometimes be glamorous but often involves time away from family and trying to keep a stiff upper lip in the face of doors being slammed shut. The road can also destroy many physically, emotionally, and mentally as an artist tries to survive for the original love of creating one's art. For - [Sandy Bell releases new album for her deceased son](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/18/sandy-bell-releases-new-album-for-her-deceased-son/) - Nova Scotia singer-songwriter Sandy Bell’s debut solo album, Break of Day: Songs for Colin, was born out of heart-wrenching grief, after losing her only son Colin Bell in a tragic train accident. He died at age 20 while walking home one night, listening to music on his headphones, in Brantford, ON. While Sandy has sung - [Ian North comes back from near-death to release Everything is Incomplete](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/13/ian-north-comes-back-from-near-death-to-release-everything-is-incomplete/) - Prolific singer-songwriter Ian North literally came back from the brink of death to produce his latest album, Everything is Incomplete, which is filled with songs of hope and resilience. It was recorded during Ian's year-long stint in rehabilitation after suffering from a double-lung pulmonary embolism, which caused his heart to stop three times over a - [Single review: Leahy - 'Joie de Vivre'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/12/single-review-leahy-joie-de-vivre/) - Leahy's 2021 album, Good Water, introduced us to a whole new side of the Juno-winning group, centering vocal numbers and pop production ahead of the polished traditional(ish) tunes the band is best known for. It's a gorgeous album to be sure, but if you've been missing the traditional Leahy, this new album is for you. - [Boreal returns with 'Shepherd of the Road' from upcoming album Winterbirds](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/08/boreal-returns-with-shepherd-of-the-road-from-upcoming-album-winterbirds/) - Ahead of their forthcoming new album, Winterbirds, Canadian folk trio Boreal has shared "Shepherd of the Road," a moving tribute to truckers who look out for other drivers during hazardous conditions. The song is actually based upon what happened to Boreal's Angie Nussey the very night in 2019 when she joined the group, which also - [Blues rock sextet Sparrow Blue releases 'That Rock N Roll'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/11/blues-rock-sextet-sparrow-blue-releases-that-rock-n-roll/) - St. Albert, AB's blues rock sextet Sparrow Blue has released a sweet, party-starting, rowdy rock nugget called "That Rock N Roll," the latest single from the band's 2024 album No Lies, No Tricks. And judging by the sizzle on this sonic steak, Sparrow Blue has so, so much to offer. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TTSxA0U0lYo The single captures all - [Howard Gladstone has released his 8th studio album, Crazy Talk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/09/howard-gladstone-has-released-his-8th-studio-album-crazy-talk/) - Contemporary roots-folk singer-songwriter Howard Gladstone officially released his eighth album, Crazy Talk (Sonic Peach Music), at the end of September. The 12 new songs cover genres from folk to jazz, folk/rock and world music. "Show A Little Love (For Free/Part Two)" is a gentle, jazzy song, featuring a mellow but compelling tenor sax solo from - [Americana artist Sarah Burton releases 'Worth Sticking Around For'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/06/americana-artist-sarah-burton-releases-worth-sticking-around-for/) - Ottawa-born, Austin-based roots singer-songwriter Sarah Burton addresses that invasive question unmarried women are often asked with her latest single, "Worth Sticking Around For." Her lyrics describe the conundrum of not settling for second best while hoping that her other half realizes just what they have in her. The song then launches into a delectable swampy - [Mary Garnett Edwards again teams up with Andreas Schuld on 'Golden Eyed Boy'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/07/mary-garnett-edwards-again-teams-up-with-andreas-schuld-on-golden-eyed-boy/) - Most often in country music lyrics, the idea of a "happily ever after" conclusion is more of the exception than the rule. Now North Vancouver-based singer Mary Garnett Edwards has penned a dark, tragic country roots tale in "Golden Eyed Boy," a single packing a punch both lyrically and musically. Mary, accompanied by a who's - [Singer-songwriter John Dawson finds himself at home on 'Where You Belong'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/04/singer-songwriter-john-dawson-finds-himself-at-home-on-where-you-belong/) - Newmarket-based folk roots performer John Dawson puts his heart on his sleeve with his latest single "Where You Belong" from his Outlier album. The tune, produced and mixed by Adam Brunner, speaks to the universality of times a relationship might be in peril. But, by sticking things out together, it'll be water under the bridge - [Album review: Les Hey Babies - Tintamarre](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/05/album-review-les-hey-babies-tintamarre/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. It should come as a surprise to no one that the latest album by Les Hey Babies is a good bit of fun with some lovely, evocative, down-tempo numbers mixed in. The trio of indie folksters hailing from a - [Townhall tonight aims to rally support for Summerfolk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/04/townhall-tonight-aims-to-rally-support-for-summerfolk/) - A town hall tonight in Owen Sound aims to rally support for next year's Summerfolk, after the festival nearly drowned under unprecedented downpours this past August. The event takes place at 7 p.m. at the Harmony Centre. Organizers say they want to raise $50,000 over the coming year to get Summerfolk back on the financial - [Exclusive preview: Lily Sazz - 'Goodnight, Sweetheart'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/07/exclusive-preview-lily-sazz-goodnight-sweetheart/) - Known for her impressive career as a side-woman, a long-time member of the Women’s Blues Revue Band, a band-member to blues queen Rita Chiarelli and a co-founder of the bands Trailblazers, Groove Corporation, and Cootes Paradise, Lily Sazz is finally launching her solo career with a video for a song called "Goodnight, Sweetheart." We're stoked - [Julian Taylor looks inward on Pathways](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/02/julian-taylor-looks-inward-on-pathways/) - With his two previous albums, 2020's The Ridge and 2022’s Beyond the Reservoir, listeners got a glimpse into singer-songwriter Julian Taylor’s journey to adulthood. His newest album, Pathways, is a look into the man he has become, with all the questions, self-doubts and search for a better world that comes with a clearer understanding of - [Mike McKenna Jr. releases Smokey Mountain High](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/01/mike-mckenna-jr-releases-smokey-mountain-high/) - Acclaimed singer-songwriter Mike McKenna Jr. is releasing his much-anticipated fourth studio album, Smokey Mountain High, today. Drawing deeply from his roots on Cape Breton Island, the album weaves together stories of people, landscapes, and personal experiences, creating a stunning blend of indie folk and Americana with heartfelt lyricism and soulful melodies. Smokey Mountain High marks Mike’s - [Edmonton alt-folk outfit Payphones returns with new single 'Happy Here'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/01/edmonton-alt-folk-outfit-payphones-returns-with-new-single-happy-here/) - Following their warmly received 2023 debut album, Rioting Heart, Edmonton, AB alt-folk group Payphones is back with “Happy Here,” a slow-burning single that runs the gamut of musical moods. In the words of Payphones’ lead vocalist and primary songwriter Naomi Jichita, “‘Happy Here’ is a song about the joy and complex emotions of moving from - [Single / video review: Me:She - 'Sweetie'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/29/single-video-review-meshe-sweetie/) - If you're looking for an arty song to expression your cynicism about late-stage capitalism, look no further than "Sweetie," the new single from Me:She, a.k.a. Meshe Mooette, a.k.a. Michelle DuMond. "Sweetie" is dripping with sarcasm toward society's acceptance of gradual enslavement. But like some of Me:She's previous singles, notably "Nebulous Cloud," it has a chaotic, - [Kenny 'Blues Boss' Wayne is set to release Ooh Yeah! album on Nov. 15](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/31/kenny-blues-boss-wayne-is-set-to-release-ooh-yeah-album-on-nov-15/) - From Professor Longhair, Otis Spann and Duke Ellington to Fats Domino, Ray Charles, and Allen Toussaint, the legends of boogie-woogie are responsible for some of the finest music ever created. But even those icons would be hesitant to do what Ontario-based icon Kenny “Blues Boss” Wayne has done with his latest single, “Try It Out.” - [Here are your nominees for the 2025 Canadian Folk Music Awards](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/30/here-are-your-nominees-for-the-2025-canadian-folk-music-awards/) - The Canadian Folk Music Awards will celebrate their 20th anniversary next year by returning to the venue where they launched in 2005: The Canadian Museum of History — which was then known as the Museum of Civilization. The festivities take place from April 3-6, with some activities also happening at the National Arts Centre. Yesterday - [Here Are Your Canadian Folk Music Award Nominees 2024](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/30/here-are-your-canadian-folk-music-award-nominees-2024/) - Children’s Album of the Year Abigail Lapell - LullabiesBon Débarras - J'm'en viens chez vous!Henri Godon - Chants de vacancesSeeka Sings - I BelongWill and Seeka - Will and Seeka: Friends with Everyone Contemporary Album Of The Year Abigail Lapell - AnniversaryBoy Golden - For JimmyJuurini - AqqutinniKaia Kater - Strange MedicineLynne Hanson - Just - [How Rob Lutes of Sussex juggles three touring acts and a musical history project](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/26/how-rob-lutes-of-sussex-juggles-three-touring-acts-and-a-musical-history-project/) - As it is with so many musicians, Montreal-based singer-songwriter Rob Lutes is a very busy fellow with many irons in the fire. As a solo performer, he’s released seven albums since 2000. As part of a duo with Rob MacDonald, there’s a live album, and in the band Sussex, fronted by Rob and Michael Emenau, - [Bluesmen Terry Robb and David Vest release collaborative studio album CrissCross](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/28/bluesmen-terry-robb-and-david-vest-release-collaborative-studio-album-crisscross/) - Unlike the legendary story of blues icon Robert Johnson and his iconic "Cross Road Blues," blues guitarist Terry Robb and blues pianist David Vest have individually crossed clubs, cities, and countries performing their rich and illustrious discographies to blues fans from north to south, east to west. Now the two musicians have joined forces for - [Lily Monaghan returns with 'Mona Lisa,' first single from 2025 sophomore release](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/25/lily-monaghan-returns-with-mona-lisa-first-single-from-2025-sophomore-release/) - After making a strong first impression in early 2023 with her debut EP, Introspection, Lily Monaghan returns today with the gorgeously intimate new single “Mona Lisa,” the first preview of her next release slated for 2025. Although “Mona Lisa” is simply arranged around Lily’s voice and acoustic guitar — with support from fellow rising Canadian - [Why we have the Grateful Dead to thank for the Hillside Festival's Sam Baijal](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/24/why-we-have-the-grateful-dead-to-thank-for-the-hillside-festivals-sam-baijal/) - When Sam Baijal accepted his Estelle Klein Lifetime Achievement Award during the Ontario Folk Music Awards at the beginning of the month, the long-time artistic director of the Hillside Festival tearfully thanked his parents for bringing him to Canada from India in 1967. And then he thanked the Grateful Dead. Were it not for his - [The Legendary Downchild Blues Band announces farewell tour](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/23/the-legendary-downchild-blues-band-announces-farewell-tour/) - After 19 albums, countless awards and 55 years of spreading the blues around the world on tour, the time has come for the legendary Downchild Blues Band to say farewell to the road and their beloved fans. Tickets for all shows on their farewell tour are on sale here. Downchild came to international prominence as - [Sultans of String announce Ontario tour](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/21/sultans-of-string-announce-ontario-tour/) - Three-time Juno nominees and Billboard chart-toppers Sultans of String are touring Ontario this fall and winter, showcasing global roots music and high-energy performances. Stops include Toronto, St. Catharines, Aurora, Burlington, Ottawa, and more. Audiences can experience music from Refuge, the collaboration Indigenous artists Walking Through the Fire, and holiday show Christmas Caravan. Tour Dates: • - [How David's Newland's days as a tree planter inspired In Search of Lost Trees](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/19/how-davids-newlands-days-as-a-tree-planter-inspired-in-search-of-lost-trees/) - For seven years, singer-songwriter David Newland worked with Adventure Canada acting as a Zodiac driver, performer and host on their trips to the Northwest Passage. On these excursions passengers could get a closer look, and a better understanding, of the land and the people of Canada’s north. It’s from these experiences that David released his - [Ryan McMahon shares new single 'Driveway' and announces more Canadian tour dates](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/18/ryan-mcmahon-shares-new-single-driveway-and-announces-more-canadian-tour-dates/) - It's been nearly a year since Ryan McMahon released Live Now, an album that's placed the Ladysmith B.C. singer-songwriter squarely into the conversation about Canada's most promising voices within the Americana scene. After supporting Live Now through tours with Tom Cochrane, Burton Cummings and others, he's not yet ready to tie a bow on it. - [Concert review: The Unfaithful Servants - Oct. 11 at the Roberts Creek Legion, Roberts Creek, BC](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/17/concert-review-the-unfaithful-servants-oct-11-at-the-roberts-creek-legion-roberts-creek-bc/) - They must be putting something in the water on Vancouver Island because the number of great bands, musicians, and singer-songwriters originating from, and/or based on the island is crazy. Add The Unfaithful Servants to the growing list. Firmly rooted in “new grass” (traditional bluegrass with a contemporary twist), the band was established in 2017 by - [Concert review: The Sattalites, Sept. 26 at Hugh's Room Live, Toronto](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/16/concert-review-the-sattalites-sept-26-at-hughs-room-live-toronto/) - The Sattalites stir up sublime reggae fusion and turn up the heat with new beats at Hugh’s Room in TO. The celebrated reggae musicians and veterans of Toronto’s music scene dropped in to bring down a full house at their Sept. 26 show in the city’s east end. Outside 296 Broadview Avenue, it’s a breezy - [Colin James releases new video for single 'Protection' (feat. Lucinda Williams)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/15/colin-james-releases-new-video-for-single-protection-feat-lucinda-williams/) - After releasing his great Chasing The Sun album earlier in 2024, musician Colin James continues to be on fire thanks to the album's second single, "Protection” (feat. Lucinda Williams). Colin says a music video was shot in Nashville recently for the song, and a certain someone makes a special appearance in it. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pOVJJjamYUA "This song - [Justine Giles formally introduces herself with new EP Another Chance](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/11/justine-giles-formally-introduces-herself-with-new-ep-another-chance/) - In late 2019, Justine Giles was looking for a fresh start. She packed up and moved from Toronto to Calgary, carrying big plans along with her guitar. Of course, within a few months those plans had to be put on hold, but it didn’t stop Justine from building a foundation of new musical ideas, along - [Reggae North Awards Celebrate Canadian Reggae Talent](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/10/reggae-north-awards-celebrate-canadian-reggae-talent/) - On a splendid September Sunday night, the inaugural Reggae North Awards gala lit up the gorgeous Rose Theatre in Brampton, celebrating top achievements over the past year in the Jamaican-based genre that has achieved permanent cultural prominence with audiences in Canada and around the world. After an attempt this past summer to remove the genre - [Folk Canada unveils its new logo and website](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/06/folk-canada-unveils-its-new-logo-and-website/) - Folk Music Ontario is now Folk Canada, and on Sunday, it unveiled its new logo and website. "Yes, we could've made the 'O' a banjo," executive director Rosalyn Dennett told the audience at the reception to celebrate the unveiling. "Yes, we could've made the 'A' a maple leaf." But she explained that the multicoloured bands - [Here are the winners of the 2024 Ontario Folk Music Awards](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/06/here-are-the-winners-of-the-2024-ontario-folk-music-awards/) - Janice Jo Lee opened the Ontario Folk Music Awards Sunday afternoon by asking, "What is folk music?" But you have to know that when Janice is asking the question, it's not intended rhetorically. Nor are we invited to intellectualize about the answer. Rather, it's the start of a stirring spoken word piece about community in - [Saturday night showcases at the Folk Music Ontario conference - Elizabeth's reviews](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/06/39857/) - Singer-songwriter Meredith Moon was first up on the schedule for the Saturday evening showcases in the ballroom. She performs with a standup bass player, an electric guitar and a drummer on the kit. Originally from Toronto, Meredith now lives near Peterborough, ON. She regularly tours across Canada and into the USA. There’s very much a - [Saturday night Folk Music Ontario showcases - Heather's reviews](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/06/saturday-night-folk-music-ontario-showcases-heathers-reviews/) - 12:35 p.m. - Makinna Givens is on stage as I walk into the Grand Ballroom to catch the end of the developing artist showcase. She’s seated on stage with nothing but an acoustic guitar for accompaniment and more than 100 people in the palm of her hand. Lunch time is a great time of the - [Saturday daytime showcases at the Folk Music Ontario conference](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/05/saturday-daytime-showcases-at-the-folk-music-ontario-conference/) - She’s the only American artist showcasing at FMO this weekend, and what a great singer-songwriter she is. Jillian is from Syracuse, NY, originally, but now lives in Tennessee. She’s part of the labour movement and writes about social justice and politics. Powerful stuff. What can we say about Toronto’s Julian Taylor? He’s pretty much a - [Friday night showcases at the Folk Music Ontario conference - Elizabeth's reviews](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/05/friday-night-showcases-at-the-folk-music-ontario-conference-elizabeths-reviews/) - Brazilian Forró music is the forte of this lively dance band lead by percussionist Jerusa Leão. French-Canadian fiddler Kelly Lefaive is in the band too. She has adopted the Brazilian rabeca for its distinctive tone in creating this music. Clarinet, keys and drums round out the exciting sound. It wasn’t long before lots of the - [Friday night showcases at the Folk Music Ontario conference: Heather's reviews](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/05/friday-night-showcases-at-the-folk-music-ontario-conference-heathers-reviews/) - 7:00 p.m. - OK, before we get into the showcases, let me just catch you up on my day so far. I got here around noon and caught the last bit of a panel of music supervisors comparing how different songs suit the mood of different scenes from films. It was actually pretty neat to - [Folk Music Ontario Friday daytime showcases](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/04/folk-music-ontario-friday-daytime-showcases/) - Zoe Wren from England led off Friday’s International Songwriters in the Round workshop with soaring vocals. She sings with great clarity and emotion. Zoe Wren. Photo by Elizabeth Szekeres.Creekbed Carter Hogan was second up among the International Songwriters. They are from Texas, writing and singing about the political situation of governments that really don’t care - [Liv Wade takes life in 'Slow Motion' on lush preview of new EP Radios And Buffalos](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/04/liv-wade-takes-life-in-slow-motion-on-lush-preview-of-new-ep-radios-and-buffalos/) - As the Indigenous Music Renaissance continues to introduce groundbreaking singer-songwriters to the wider world, a new name can be added to that list: Liv Wade. A queer, two-spirit artist with Metis and Scandinavian roots, Liv’s family originally came from the Red River Metis Nation, eventually settling in a northern Manitoba area called Pine Bluff, just - [Thursday night showcases at the Folk Music Ontario conference - Heather's reviews](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/04/thursday-night-showcases-at-the-folk-music-ontario-conference-heathers-reviews/) - 7:09 p.m. - Terra Spencer tells the audience she’s opening her set with a song “for people who have been married for a long time or who feel like they’ve been married for a long time or people who know better.” But just when we think we’re going to get some kind of folk equivalent - [Thursday night showcases at the Folk Music Ontario conference - Elizabeth's reviews](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/04/thursday-night-showcases-at-the-folk-music-ontario-conference-elizabeths-reviews/) - At first loud and brassy, then calm and contemplative, Joe Grass and his percussionist conjure a huge realm of sounds. A multi-instrumentalist, Joe is equally at home on acoustic and electric guitars, banjo and mandolin. I loved it when he coaxed music from a banjo with a violin bow, and then his percussionist brought out - [Book Review: The Beatles and Me on Tour, 60th Anniversary Edition by Ivor Davis](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/08/book-review-the-beatles-and-me-on-tour-60th-anniversary-edition-by-ivor-davis/) - I was a child in 1964, when the Beatles first came to North America. Ivor Davis, a young reporter for the London Daily Express, came with the Fab Four; he was the only British writer invited on that entire tour. He witnessed musical history in the making, but not just that. As a writer, he - [The new All Canadian Soundclash single was inspired by the death of a friend](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/07/the-new-all-canadian-soundclash-single-was-inspired-by-the-death-of-a-friend/) - For All Canadian Soundclash vocalist Andrew Michelin, the gorgeous lead single "Tired" from the group's new four-song EP, Nashville, was inspired by a friend who was killed by a drunk driver when Andrew was in his early 20s. https://youtu.be/GdVmiIls0Ls?si=OAox6S7KH4XB4b8r "I wrote the song in about 10 minutes when I was 21, sometime after my friend's - [How Tom Rush became a champion of Canadian songwriters](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/12/how-tom-rush-became-a-champion-of-canadian-songwriters/) - In November of 2021, after a three-year renovation costing $146 million, Toronto’s legendary Massey Hall re-opened to its former glory. Kicking off the new era of the revitalized music venue was a three-night appearance by Canadian icon Gordon Lightfoot, who had played at the “Grand Old Lady of Shuter Street” over 170 times in his - [5 things Heather plans to do at the Folk Music Ontario conference besides watch music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/03/5-things-heather-plans-to-do-at-the-folk-music-ontario-conference-besides-watch-music/) - The annual Folk Music Ontario conference, which is getting underway now in Mississauga, is above all an opportunity to check out dozens of amazing artists and figure out who will be burning up next year's festival circuit. But it's also much more than that; there are workshops, networking opportunities, mentorship sessions and much more. So, - [10 acts Heather plans to check out at the Folk Music Ontario conference](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/02/10-acts-heather-plans-to-check-out-at-the-folk-music-ontario-conference/) - With nearly 100 showcase artists on the bill this year, the annual Folk Music Ontario conference, unfolding in Mississauga later this week, offers attendees a feast of musical sounds and, let’s face it, a giant headache. Because it’s the same problem every year: How on earth are you supposed to figure out who to go - [Single review: April Martell - 'You Tonight'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/10/01/single-review-april-martell-you-tonight/) - April Martell describes herself self-deprecatingly in her BandCamp bio as a singer-songwriter and terrible guitar player in Antigonish NS. I appreciate a person with a sense of humour, so I'm on board before I even press "play." To be fair, she's right on all counts. What she fails to mention is that she makes up - [Kym Gouchie releases '215+' for the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/30/kym-gouchie-releases-215-for-the-national-day-for-truth-and-reconciliation/) - Celebrated Lheidli T’enneh Nation artist, storyteller, and cultural ambassador Kym Gouchie announces her deeply moving single “215+” in honour of the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation today. The song was written in response to the 2021 discovery of the graves of 215 children at the Tk?emlúps te Secwépemc, the former Kamloops Indian Residential School. - [Old Man Luedecke is loving NS life, promoting new album produced by Bahamas](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/28/old-man-luedecke-is-loving-ns-life-promoting-new-album-produced-by-bahamas/) - “It’s no problem writing crap. But I kind of wanted to write better songs,” Chris Luedecke said. That in a nutshell is the reason it’s taken so long for Old Man Luedecke to follow up 2019’s Easy Money with his latest album, She Told Me Where to Go. The album was produced by Afie Jurvanen, - [Old Hoss comes up 'Smellin' Like a Rose' on first single from debut album Mid-Atlantic](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/27/old-hoss-comes-up-smellin-like-a-rose-on-first-single-from-debut-album-mid-atlantic/) - Old Hoss is the alter ego of Edmonton-born, Toronto-based musician Kris Gies, who over the past few years has transitioned from bass duties with hard rockers Flamingo Bay to creating his own brand of mutant country. His sound's crackling energy is captured on the debut Old Hoss album Mid-Atlantic — out Oct. 18 — produced - [Sandy Scofield's new single is dedicated to Colton Boushie and Tina Fontaine](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/26/sandy-scofields-new-single-is-dedicated-to-colton-boushie-and-tina-fontaine/) - Multi-award-winning Métis singer, songwriter, and composer Sandy Scofield is releasing the video for her song "Hummingbirds" on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. “Hummingbirds” is a poignant and haunting piece dedicated to Colten Boushie and Tina Fontaine, two young Indigenous people whose deaths brought significant attention to the systemic issues faced by Indigenous communities. Its - [Folk Music Ontario is now Folk Canada](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/26/folk-music-ontario-is-now-folk-canada/) - Big news, folks. Folk Music Ontario is no more. It's now Folk Canada. Members voted on Sept. 20 to change the name of the organization — part of an ongoing process to turn the provincial body into a national one. That's not the only change, as you might imagine. Membership in the organization is now available - [Ottawa's Angelica Jones (formerly The Angelina Hunter Trio) debuts new name and song](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/11/29/ottawas-angelica-jones-formerly-the-angelina-hunter-trio-debuts-new-name-and-song/) - Ottawa blues act Angelica Jones has arrived with a new name but same unstoppable energy they brought to the stage when they were previously known as the Angelina Hunter Trio. This powerhouse band delivers a raw, electrifying sound, from gritty guitar riffs to soulful vocals, redefining blues for a new generation, all while staying true - [Rob Lutes' band Sussex releases 'Shine Down Every Day' from Shine](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/25/rob-lutes-band-sussex-releases-shine-down-every-day-from-shine/) - There are tranquil pieces of music that bring back memories of a gentler time with simple, solid musicianship and pristine laid-back vocals. Quebec-based folk duo Sussex has gone to that well with the precious, peaceful "Shine Down Every Day" from their latest album Shine. It's a song vocalist and guitarist Rob Lutes said resembles a - [Album review: Danny Bell and his Disappointments - Contemporary Accordion Music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/24/album-review-danny-bell-and-his-disappointments-contemporary-accordion-music/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. For a guy who calls his band the Disappointments, Danny Bell has yet to actually disappoint me. The accordion-playing folk-punk singer-songwriter and musical hero of working class northern industrial towns is back with a new collection of songs that - [Bluesman David Gogo rocks out on Steve Marriner-produced new album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/23/bluesman-david-gogo-rocks-out-on-steve-marriner-produced-new-album/) - Even if a guy has given his life to the blues, there are times when he just can’t resist the primal urge to rock out. Especially when his friends are there to egg him on. That’s where David Gogo finds himself on his new album, YEAH!—a dizzying compendium of career bests that pulses with the - [Home Routes announces line-up for 17th season](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/21/home-routes-announces-line-up-for-17th-season/) - Home Routes/Chemin Chez Nous has just announced the launch of its 17th season, kicking off in October. The non-profit has been at the forefront of connecting artists and audiences through its innovative house concert model for nearly two decades, fostering community engagement, cultural exchange, and grassroots support for independent musicians. "After 16 incredible seasons, we're - [Raven Reid channels The Man In Black on new single 'A Johnny Cash Night'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/20/raven-reid-channels-the-man-in-black-on-new-single-a-johnny-cash-night/) - On her debut album, Waiting for Change, Raven Reid offers a powerful glimpse into not only her own life as an Indigenous woman, but also the lives of the many just like her who have struggled to find their voices in the face of addiction, suicide, domestic violence and discrimination. Making music has been her - [Jeremy Dutcher wins Polaris Music Prize ... again!](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/18/jeremy-dutcher-wins-polaris-music-prize-again/) - Jeremy Dutcher has just become the first artist in the 19-year history of the Polaris Music Prize to win the award twice — in as many albums no less. Jeremy won the award for Motewolonuwok, the follow-up to his groundbreaking debut, Wolastoqiyik Lintuwakonawa, on which he adapted traditional songs for his piano and operatic tenor - [Nominate your favourite artists, festivals and folk DJs for awards](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/19/nominate-your-favourite-artists-festivals-and-folk-djs-for-awards/) - Folk Alliance International is currently seeking nominations for the 2024 Clearwater Award and 2024 Folk Radio Hall of Fame. The winners will be announced at FAI 2025 at the International Folk Music Awards ceremony in Montréal. The Clearwater Award is presented annually to a festival that prioritizes environmental stewardship and demonstrates public leadership in sustainable - [Mark Wihlidal and producer Chris Birkett collaborate on 'One More Time'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/17/mark-wihlidal-and-producer-chris-birkett-collaborate-on-one-more-time/) - Artists these days are defying Father Time (and the Grim Reaper) by performing well into their 60s, 70s and beyond. From the Rolling Stones and Bruce Springsteen to Bob Dylan and Willie Nelson, age is just a number. And Oshawa-based blues rock artist Mark Wihlidal and producer/guitarist Chris Birkett are taking that idea to the - [Juno winners Blue Moon Marquee capture the Big Easy sound on New Orleans Sessions](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/18/juno-winners-blue-moon-marquee-capture-the-big-easy-sound-on-new-orleans-sessions/) - Juno Award winning, British Columbia-based indie blues duo A.W. Cardinal and Jasmine Colette, best known as Blue Moon Marquee, made huge strides with their highly lauded, award-winning album Scream, Holler & Howl. Now the energetic, high-octane tandem are back with a rollicking batch of ridiculously lively toe-tapping originals and covers with New Orleans Sessions. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBSmOUuU0jY - [Album review: Sam Weber - Clear + Plain](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/17/album-review-sam-weber-clear-plain/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. Sam Weber is a master of intimate, understated singer-songwriter music, and this new album once again drips with introspection and melancholy. Backed mostly by arrangements of minimalist piano, a touch of electric guitar and brushed drums, Sam sings as - [Petunia & The Vipers share "Billy the Kid" single and embark on North American tour](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/13/petunia-the-vipers-share-billy-the-kid-single-and-embark-on-north-american-tour/) - The story of Billy the Kid has been told in innumerable ways ever since the Old West outlaw was gunned down at the age of 21. It made him an instant legend. Then there is the legend of Petunia. Since the turn of this century, the enigmatic Vancouver-based singer/songwriter and his band The Vipers have - [Here are the winners of (most of) the 2024 MusicNL Awards](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/12/here-are-the-winners-of-most-of-the-2024-musicnl-awards/) - MusicNL celebrated the province’s best and brightest last week at the 2024 MusicNL Awards gala, which took place at the St. John’s Convention Centre. The event was hosted by comedian Matt Wright and featured performances by Ana Luísa Ramos,Valmy, Justin Fancy, Kellie Loder, Liz Fagan Band, Maria Cherwick & Jockey Special, Rachel Cousins, Silver Wolf - [Exclusive preview: Twin Flames - 'Just Like a Ghost'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/11/exclusive-preview-twin-flames-just-like-a-ghost/) - Twin Flames, the husband-and-wife duo Jaaji and Chelsey June, will release their brand-new album, Hugging the Cactus, on Oct. 18, and we're stoked here at Roots Music Canada to get to share an exclusive little taste of it here today. It's their new single, "Just like a Ghost," which comes out tomorrow — the final - [Folk Music Ontario set to vote on becoming Folk Canada](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/09/folk-music-ontario-set-to-vote-on-becoming-folk-canada/) - Folk Music Ontario is preparing to vote to become Folk Canada. The organization issued a notice to its membership last week of a special meeting on Sept. 20, which will take place at 3 p.m. ET on Zoom. Members will vote on a resolution to change the organization’s name from Folk Music Ontario to Folk - [Larry Folk's 'Hey Politician!' takes aim at the divisive political climate](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/14/larry-folks-hey-politician-takes-aim-at-the-divisive-political-climate/) - It’s hard to find a likeable character among our current elected officials, and Toronto-based singer-songwriter Larry Folk has a to-the-point commentary about the political climate called “Hey Politician!” Though never intended to be released publicly, the atrocious level of incivility that exists in today’s politics begged for the song’s inclusion on his upcoming album Lessen - [Kitchener's Rick Marshall bridges north and south on 'Viva México'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/16/kitcheners-rick-marshall-bridges-north-and-south-on-viva-mexico/) - Rick Marshall may have grown up in Kelligrews, NL, and he may be based in Kitchener, ON, but he has salsa coursing through his blood. That’s evident after a single listen to “Viva México,” one of four musical calling cards the singer-songwriter is dropping to introduce himself to the world as an original country artist—and, - [Julian Taylor and Allison Russell team up on 'Pathways'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/14/julian-taylor-and-allison-russell-team-up-on-pathways/) - Award-winning Americana/folk singer-songwriter Julian Taylor released his new single, "Pathways," on Aug. 21, on all major platforms. It features the sweet, enchanting harmony vocals of Allison Russell, and it’s the fourth single from Julian's forthcoming album, Pathways, to be released on Sept. 27. The official video by Ryan Nolan is out now. "Pathways" was written - [Single review: Houston Rydell - 'Letting Go'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/10/single-review-houston-rydell-letting-go/) - There isn’t a whole lot I can tell you about Houston Rydell because he’s brand new on the scene – this is literally his first single – but I can tell you that he makes a helluva first impression. The 28-year-old from Toronto says he decided to record some original material after competing in the - [Album review: Tim Readman - Songs from Eighth and Eight](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/05/album-review-tim-readman-eighth-and-eight/) - Tim Readman bills Songs from Eighth & Eight as "A diverse collection of original, contemporary protest songs." And hats off to the Vancouver-based singer, songwriter, producer, and music journalist. Topical songs, these days, are as rare as Republicans with spines. Having collaborated with a wide variety of diverse musicians in the past, the likes of - [Bob Sumner rewrites the country music rulebook on Some Place To Rest Easy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/06/bob-sumner-rewrites-the-country-music-rulebook-on-some-place-to-rest-easy/) - Talking about traditional country music, Americana and folk makes Bob Sumner a little prickly. His problem isn’t with the music itself, of course, as his sophomore solo album, Some Place to Rest Easy, clearly shows that the Canadian singer-songwriter appreciates the finer points of steel guitar, fiddle, and strong storytelling. Rather, Bob takes issue with - [The Aurora Cultural Centre's 2024-2025 season has lots to love for roots fans](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/07/the-aurora-cultural-centres-2024-2025-season-has-lots-to-love-for-roots-fans/) - The Aurora Cultural Centre has become quite the cultural force — especially since Derek Andrews of Harbourfront and Luminato fame began working with the venue. It's preparing to launch its new season on Sept. 25, but we already know what's planned: 27 events in all. Here are the ones folk, roots and world music fans - [4 September shows to kick off the Rogue Folk Club's fall season](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/04/4-september-shows-to-kick-off-the-rogue-folk-clubs-fall-season/) - Vancouver's Rogue Folk Club kicks off the fall season with four shows, including a multiple Juno winner, some west-coast favourites, and favourite Indigenous artist from northern B.C. As always, the Rogue is offering the shows both in person and online, so those who can't attend can stream them in the comfort of their own homes. - [Album review: Tony Ivan O'Hara - Harder Times](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/09/03/album-review-tony-ivan-ohara-harder-times/) - Tony Ivan O'Hara is a Vancouver-based bluesman, and his sound transports me back to the iconic Yale Hotel of the 1980s and 90s – the working-class bar built in 1889 that was Vancouver’s home of the blues in that era. This is vintage-sounding, Chicago-style bar-room blues in the best sense of the word. It’s got - [Erika Kulnys' "Black Swan" was inspired by domestic violence in a queer relationship](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/31/erika-kulnys-black-swan-was-inspired-by-domestic-violence-in-a-queer-relationship/) - Singer-songwriter Erika Kulnys’ new single “Black Swan” is aching and melancholy, with introspective guitar and heartfelt vocals that go beyond typical grief or sadness. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rS0tkpp7ruY The song was written after an abusive relationship, one in which Erika suffered physical and emotional abuse. “It’s about reckoning with despair and finding the dawn after the long night,” - [Ben Arsenault releases sophomore album, Make Way For This Heartache](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/30/ben-arsenault-releases-sophomore-album-make-way-for-this-heartache/) - We may not have walked down Ben Arsenault’s road or suffered the same slings and arrows of outrageous fortune he has, but if you drop your guard and surrender to his words and inflection, you’ll know that when he moves up to the microphone, they’re not just his songs he’s singing. That feeling is embedded - [Toronto Blues Society town hall to discuss Maple Blues Awards after Black artists shut out in 2024](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/28/toronto-blues-society-town-hall-to-discuss-maple-blues-awards-after-black-artists-shut-out-in-2024/) - The Toronto Blues Society is holding a town hall meeting next month to address concerns about the Maple Blues Awards — after this year's ceremony produced an all-white winners list, but for Indigenous Artist/Group of the Year winner Crystal Shawanda. This despite the fact that the Blackburn Brothers were nominated in nine categories. TBS says - [Roots rocker James Leclaire invites us to 'Come On In'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/23/roots-rocker-james-leclaire-invites-us-to-come-on-in/) - As Bob Dylan figured out long ago, sooner or later we all need shelter from the storm. And that’s what we get on “Come On In,” the comforting new single from Manotick, ON roots-rocker James Leclaire. https://youtu.be/IexkTpldY2M?si=mzobpJsQwBVF8_-i With his grizzled voice James reassures us that what lies within is a sanctuary where we can recharge - [D.M. Lafortune issues 25th anniversary edition of 'Beauty and Hard Times'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/29/d-m-lafortune-issues-25th-anniversary-edition-of-beauty-and-hard-times/) - As she marks the 25th-anniversary rerelease of an album she’s issued twice already — under two different titles — Indigenous Toronto blues-folkster Diem (D.M.) Lafortune has plenty of reasons to revisit the material again. https://youtu.be/rhkPftvyQm0?si=FWd1pS3A1nZOnlAF The remastered edition of her Beauty and Hard Times represents a new lease on life for a record that was - [The Rogue Folk club unveils its fall season of in-person and live-stream concerts](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/29/the-rogue-folk-club-unveils-its-fall-season-of-in-person-and-live-stream-concerts/) - The summer festival season may be winding down, but folk club season is getting ready to kick off again, and The Rogue Folk Club is roaring back with some sparkling new talents and old favourites. All concerts occur in the beautiful historic Mel Lehan Hall at St. James Square in Vancouver and are streamed for - [Here are your nominees for the 2024 Ontario Folk Music Awards](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/27/here-are-your-nominees-for-the-2024-ontario-folk-music-awards/) - Folk Music Ontario has announced the nominees for the 2024 Ontario Folk Music Awards. The annual award ceremony will take place as the final event of the Folk Music Ontario Conference at the Living Arts Centre in Mississauga on Sunday, Oct 6. It will feature performances by a yet-to-be-announced line-up of nominated artists and special - [Mike Evin's Something Stirs When You Sing is out now](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/24/mike-evins-something-stirs-when-you-sing-is-out-now/) - Heartfelt piano-pop troubadour Mike Evin released his seventh album, Something Stirs When You Sing, yesterday. Fueled by a breakup and the pandemic, it's his most immediate work to date — “old school pop” marked by poignant storytelling, propulsive piano playing, conversational singing, rich harmonic movement, and adventurous melodies that live inside you. The playful vibe - [Kim Beggs returns with 'Bury Me Inside Your Heart' from new album Beneath Your Skin](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/23/kim-beggs-returns-with-bury-me-inside-your-heart-from-new-album-beneath-your-skin/) - Yukon-based singer-songwriter Kim Beggs is set to return on Sept. 20 with her seventh album, Beneath Your Skin, a collection of new material exploring familial history, survival, and the natural world. The first single, "Bury Me Inside Your Heart," is out today on all digital platforms, and is another showcase for Kim's distinctive approach to - [Singer-songwriter Jeffery Straker's 'Carry on with Grace' was inspired by humiliation](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/22/singer-songwriter-jeffery-strakers-carry-on-with-grace-was-inspired-by-humiliation/) - Sometimes an epiphany arrives for a musician when they are on tour, in the studio or simply near a piano or guitar. In the case of Saskatchewan singer-songwriter Jeffery Straker, it was after slipping and falling while hitting an icy patch running in Regina. That fall was the seed for "Carry on with Grace," the - [Sit Awhile With Singer-Songwriter And Poet Brian Campbell On His Meditative New Single "Only Breath"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/21/sit-awhile-with-singer-songwriter-and-poet-brian-campbell-on-his-meditative-new-single-only-breath/) - Albert Einstein once summarized his best understanding of the universe’s inner mechanism as “spooky action, at a distance.” On his new single “Only Breath,” Montreal singer/song-poet Brian Campbell is taking audiences on a transcendental field trip, serving as fearless inner sherpa to the great spooky beyond. It’s available everywhere now. https://youtu.be/duDF7bc4Y7Q?si=jYBzZ4PlPiQOwcsC “Only Breath” is hypnotic - ['Hold Tight' is the latest single from Calgary's Lenny Oka](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/20/hold-tight-is-the-latest-single-from-calgarys-lenny-oka/) - “Hold Tight,” the latest single by Calgary, AB-based folk roots artist Lenny Oka, is driving, bluesy, and harmonica studded, an adventure through the dark, starry night. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IttD4Ww-DP4 You can almost picture the mist on the windshield, the atmospheric tunes on the lonely-hearts radio, and the vast, wholly enveloping night beyond the cozy confines of Lenny’s - [Mike Bern and the Muskrat Singers capture Indigenous basket-making sounds on 'Echoes'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/21/mike-bern-and-the-muskrat-singers-capture-indigenous-basket-making-sounds-on-echoes/) - On his new single, “Echoes,” folk rocker Mike Bern guides you over a breathtaking landscape where the sounds build in intensity and then become more vivid and enveloping. Mike is coming off yet another Top 10 on the Indigenous Music Countdown for his single “New World.” On this latest, “Echoes,” he enlists the help of - [Colin James Adds Heavy Hitters To The Line-Up On Forthcoming New Studio Album 'Chasing The Sun' Out August 23](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/20/colin-james-adds-heavy-hitters-to-the-line-up-on-forthcoming-new-studio-album-chasing-the-sun-out-august-23/) - To a recording artist, having a bunch of big-name guests on your album can be a double-edged sword: It’ll get you some attention, sure, but there’s always the danger you’ll find yourself pushed out of the limelight — a supporting player in your own production. Fortunately, no one elbows Colin James into the wings. With - [Dispatches from Summerfolk: Day 3 (Sunday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/18/dispatches-from-summerfolk-day-3-sunday-3/) - We saw a wonderful performance of Francophone artists on Sunday morning at Summerfolk. It was threatening rain again, so we headed undercover at the Down by the Bay stage. We had Lennie Gallant with his band, Élage Diouf with his band, and Andrina Turenne, Franco-Manitoban Métis singer-songwriter. Almost every song turned into a jam session. - [Dispatches from Summerfolk: Day 2 (Saturday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/18/dispatches-from-summerfolk-day-2-saturday-3/) - It was pouring rain on Saturday morning. Under the protection of a large tent, we sat sheltered to hear David Sereda. He’s a local talent here in Owen Sound, singing soulfully with his beautiful tenor voice and accompanied here by vocalist Coco Love Alcorn and Tyler Wagner on bass. David encouraged the audience to sing - [Dispatches from Summerfolk: Day 1 (Friday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/16/dispatches-from-summerfolk-day-1-friday-3/) - Grier Coppins opened the festival’s main stage playing a variety of trad tunes on his traditional Scottish bagpipes. It was cool to watch him dancing around the ampitheatre as he played. Beppe Gambetta was first up for the evening performances, singing in English with a very attractive Italian accent. His songs are poetry set to - [Craig Robertson makes good time on new single 'New Brunswick by Noon'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/16/craig-robertson-makes-good-time-on-new-single-new-brunswick-by-noon/) - It’s now been a decade since Craig Robertson released his debut solo album, and during that time the Canadian singer/songwriter has made five more recordings that have found him growing into one of the most compelling voices within the roots music community. Craig’s latest collection, Running the Other Way, out Sept. 20, is another major - [6 great ways to prep for Summerfolk 49](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/15/6-great-ways-to-prep-for-summerfolk-49/) - Well, here we are, just a few days away from the commencement of Summerfolk 49! The volunteers are all eagerly awaiting their assignments, the vendors are packing their merch, and the musicians are doing all of their last-minute practicing, changing strings and getting on the road. Here’s our top six ways to prepare for your - [Photos and reflections from the Edmonton Folk Music Festival: Day 4 (Sunday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/14/photos-and-reflections-from-the-edmonton-folk-music-festival-day-4-sunday/) - Bruce Pollock is an EFMF volunteer who did double-duty this year as a Roots Music Canada correspondent. Thanks to Edmonton Transit, I arrived on site too late to assist with the load-in of Alison Krauss and Robert Plant's gear. Well, that's my story, and I stand by it. So, I went to the Stage 7 - [Photos from the Edmonton Folk Music Festival's Thursday night main stage](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/10/photos-from-the-edmonton-folk-music-festivals-thursday-night-main-stage/) - Thursday got off to a slow start. There were no session stages, just the Main Stage in the evening. It all began with Orchestra Gold bringing the regional sounds of Mali and Oakland to Edmonton. This was an energetic, lively kickoff to the festival. Mariam Dinkite's vocals were enchanting and her dancing equally so. The - [Dispatches from the Goderich Celtic Roots Festival: Day 3 (Sunday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/14/dispatches-from-the-goderich-celtic-roots-festival-day-3-sunday/) - Rain was a threat all day Sunday but mostly held off until the end of the day, when at about 7:00 p.m., just after the evening main stage began with a performance by Fiarock, a four-piece traditional Irish band, the skies opened up and the rain came. I must admit that I was not one - [Dispatches from the Goderich Celtic Roots Festival: Day 2 (Saturday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/13/dispatches-from-the-goderich-celtic-roots-festival-day-2-saturday/) - Another absolutely beautiful day on site at the Goderich Celtic Roots Festival. My hotel room is about a 15-minute walk right through the middle of town to the front gate. Goderich is a beautiful example of small-town Ontario, the centre of which is laid out like a wheel and spoke with a gorgeous old courthouse - [Photos from the Edmonton Folk Music Festival: Day 3 (Saturday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/12/photos-from-the-edmonton-folk-music-festival-day-3-saturday/) - [Photos from the Edmonton Folk Music Festival: Day 2 (Friday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/11/photos-from-the-edmonton-folk-music-festival-day-2-friday/) - Rose Cousins. Photo by Bruce Pollock. - [5 things Elizabeth Szekeres and Pierre Rivard can't wait to see at Summerfolk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/13/5-things-elizabeth-szekeres-and-pierre-rivard-cant-wait-to-see-at-summerfolk/) - Summerfolk 49 is happening next week! (August 16, 17 and 18, 2024) This festival, in Owen Sound, ON, is coming up really fast! We can’t wait to have our ears tickled by the new music that’s in store for us all at this perennially wonderful festival. Here are our five choices for the Summerfolk events - [Dispatches from the Goderich Celtic Roots Festival: Day 1 (Friday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/10/dispatches-from-the-goderich-celtic-roots-festival-day-1-friday/) - The Goderich Celtic Roots Festival in Goderich, ON was first staged in 1992 and has developed in its 32-year run into one of the most enjoyable events in all of North America on the roots music calendar. It helps that it occurs in one of the prettiest towns that one can imagine. As you drive - [The Once took all the time they needed with their latest album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/10/the-once-took-all-the-time-they-needed-with-their-latest-album/) - When an artist goes into the studio to record a new album they're faced with endless possibilities and decisions. Which songs are they going to record? What instruments will they use? Will there be guest artists on the album? Which vocal and instrumental takes will they use? The choices are almost endless. And all of - [Here's who Richard Barry will be checking out at the Goderich Celtic Roots Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/09/heres-who-richard-barry-will-be-checking-out-at-the-goderich-celtic-roots-festival/) - I’m very much looking forward to attending the Goderich Celtic Roots Festival this weekend, which takes place in the beautiful town of Goderich on the shores of Lake Huron. I should say that the festival itself is only a part of what goes on, as the College and Kids Camp precedes the festival, taking place - [ONTARIANS are ready to "Start Over" with new single](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/09/ontarians-are-ready-to-start-over-with-new-single/) - Befitting their name, ONTARIANS have a sound that could only be made by a group of guys raised on a steady diet of Neil Young, The Band, Blue Rodeo and the Tragically Hip. They demonstrated that on their critically acclaimed 2021 debut album, The Greatest Short Story Never Told, and they'll be back Sept. 20 - [HuDost calls for a truce in the culture wars on 'Acting Out the Outrage'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/08/hudost-calls-for-a-truce-in-the-culture-wars-on-acting-out-the-outrage/) - Righteous indignation is society’s most perfect perpetual-motion machine: Once it gets started, it has little problem generating its own energy and heat. Turning down that temperature is the objective of “Acting Out the Outrage,” the new single from the eclectic, electric rock/folk duo HuDost that urges us to lower the boiling of the culture wars - [Roots Renaissance man Steve Dawson talks to Roots Music Canada](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/07/roots-renaissance-man-steve-dawson-talks-to-roots-music-canada/) - Anyone who has been around the Canadian folk and roots music scene in the past two or three decades will have heard Steve Dawson’s music. He’s a renowned guitarist, solo artist, songwriter, pedal steel player, multi-instrumentalist, producer and engineer, originally from Vancouver B.C. but now based in Nashville. To describe him as prolific may be - [Four acts Daryl Wallace can't wait to see at the Edmonton Folk Music Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/06/four-acts-daryl-wallace-cant-wait-to-see-at-the-edmonton-folk-music-festival/) - The Edmonton Folk Music Festival is only days away, and the mammoth effort that goes into bringing this world class festival to our beautiful river valley is kicking into high gear. The EFMF is always a joyous event. This year, with the backdrop of wild fires burning across the province, numerous evacuations, and the tragedy - [Chris Gostling returns with new single "Bleed"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/02/chris-gostling-returns-with-new-single-bleed/) - For some artists, the city provides everything they need, but for others, escaping the grind of urban living for the wilds of the country is often more conducive to getting the most out of their creative impulses. That’s been the case for singer/songwriter Chris Gostling who a few years ago left his Toronto home base - [Edmonton Folk Fest offers free Thursday tickets to Jasper residents](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/02/edmonton-folk-fest-offers-free-thursday-tickets-to-jasper-residents/) - The Edmonton Folk Festival is offering free Thursday night admission to Jasper residents after a wildfire destroyed a third of the buildings in the down, displacing hundreds of people. Residents will simply need to show proof of residency, such as a drivers license) to receive the offer. They can pick up tickets in advance at - [Calgary Folk Music Festival recap: Day 4 (Sunday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/01/39131/) - I got to the island early on what promised to be a very hot day. After picking up my chair from lockup I walked over to Stage 1 passing by the front gate and patrons waiting there. I queried the first people in line, and they’d only been there a half hour. I was used - [Calgary Folk Music Festival recap: Day 3 (Saturday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/08/01/calgary-folk-music-festival-recap-day-3-saturday/) - I slept in, and on rousing myself, noted a slight drizzle. That led me to procrastinate a bit. As a result, I hit the trail to the festival too late for the first sessions. The drizzle fizzled. Stage 2 beckoned with a session called “Reckoning Ball” featuring Leith Ross, Allegra Krieger and Odie Leigh. Ghostwoman - [Calgary Folk Music Festival recap: Day 2 (Friday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/31/calgary-folk-music-festival-recap-day-2-friday/) - The Friday nooner was in thanks to sponsors and guests. The old guard from the early years were there and reminiscences and laughter ruled. The festival collared us, one by one to pose for archival photos. Brunch and drinks were provided. I think it was Mariachi Ghost who performed on stage, providing an energetic backdrop - [Calgary Folk Music Festival recap: Day 1 (Thursday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/31/calgary-folk-music-festival-recap-day-1-thursday/) - We’ve had a very hot week, plus 30, and adding to that on Wednesday, smoke from wildfires to the west. Advisories were, "If you don’t have to be outside, stay in." Thursday, that changed. Temperatures were more reasonable, and the smoke made for hazy skies but no breathing issues. In the afternoon, a short-lived shower - [Canadian roots icon Lori Yates bids farewell to grief on '3 Sisters'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/30/canadian-roots-icon-lori-yates-bids-farewell-to-grief-on-3-sisters/) - Normally, when an artist writes a song about the sudden and unexpected death of her mother and titles it “3 Sisters,” you can logically assume she’s paying tribute to the brave, bereaved children who have been left behind. But Canadian roots icon Lori Yates is up to something more personal and metaphorical on her latest - [5 artists that stood out for Tom Coxworth at the Calgary Folk Music Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/29/5-artists-that-stood-out-for-tom-coxworth-at-the-calgary-folk-music-festival/) - The Calgary Folk Festival wrapped up it's 2024 edition this weekend, and the host of CKUA's Folk Routes, Tom Coxworth, was there to take it in. It has become common over the last couple of decades for long-time roots fans to bemoan the lack of actual folk and blues music at festivals that call themselves - [Frank Cosentino gets sober, releases 'You Can't Call Back' from Comeback album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/27/frank-cosentino-gets-sober-releases-you-cant-call-back-from-comeback-album/) - After more than four decades of touring, writing, and producing new music, Frank Cosentino realized he needed to change his lifestyle. “I overcame the challenges of addiction and got sober seven years ago,” he stated. “With renewed inspiration, I returned to songwriting with increased focus and energy.” https://youtu.be/krrK9zrZS2E?si=kDHExW2mqAWgWRQ8 After working with producer Derek Downham at - [Downchild Blues Band announces farewell tour](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/27/downchild-blues-band-announces-farewell-tour/) - Canada's legendary Downchild Blues Band is calling it quits after 55 years of touring the world. In a series of posts on its Facebook page this week, the band announced it will be kicking off its farewell tour Oct. 3 at the Arden Theatre in Edmonton. "As we celebrate our 55th Anniversary this year and - [Album review: Sue Decker - Keeping Time](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/23/album-review-sue-decker-keeping-time/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. Sue Decker launched herself into our consciousness this past March with a single that sounded like something straight off Lucinda Williams’ Car Wheels on a Gravel Road. “The Lost Ones” is about the growing rates of homelessness, addiction and - [Closing notes from the Vancouver Folk Music Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/22/closing-notes-from-the-vancouver-folk-music-festival/) - Jeremy Dutcher’s penultimate song was a cheeky masterclass in stage presence. He had just finished singing the first English song in his set, and winking, he turned to the audience and announced “Now that the English language bandage is off, and you all now know I can sing in your language ..." He abandoned his - [How her mother's battle with dementia helped shape Lucy MacNeil's new album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/26/how-her-mothers-battle-with-dementia-helped-shape-lucy-macneils-new-album/) - Family and music have always been an important part of Lucy MacNeil's life. For 35 years, she and her brothers have toured the world as the Barra MacNeils, selling countless albums, performing sold out concerts and winning numerous awards. Her first solo album, Angels Whisper, came as a result of a five-song EP Lucy and - [Remembering Bic Hoang of Khac Chi Bamboo Music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/25/remembering-bic-hoang-of-khac-chi-bamboo-music/) - It's taken me a while to write about this, but we got some very sad news here at Roots Music Canada late last month: Bic Hoang of Khac Chi Bamboo Music, died on June 26 after a four-year battle with cancer. She was 60 years old, according to Vietnam.net. Khac Chi was Vietnam's premier traditional - [Concert review: Jessica Stuart, Saturday, July 20 at the Tranzac, Toronto](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/24/concert-review-jessica-stuart-saturday-july-20-at-the-tranzac-toronto/) - Jessica Stuart always comes with strings attached. The perennial top-flight Toronto guitarist with the cascading hair appears everywhere in town from bars to concert halls and on stages around the world. But last Saturday she returned to her favourite home base, The Tranzac Club in Toronto’s Annex neighbourhood. Dozens of her friends and fans denied - [Dispatches from the Vancouver Folk Music Festival - Day 3 (Sunday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/22/dispatches-from-the-vancouver-folk-music-festival-day-3-sunday-2/) - The look is a little different today. I was definitely feeling the heat in the middle of the afternoon yesterday, so today it’s shorts, a linen shirt and a soft bucket hat to keep the sun off my head. I stopped at the South Stage today for the Rise Up and Sing workshop. This is - [Dispatches from the Vancouver Folk Music Festival - Day 2 (Saturday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/21/dispatches-from-the-vancouver-folk-music-festival-day-2-saturday-2/) - I was a little late to get going this morning, but I did manage to arrive in time to catch Ndidi O’s performance on the East Stage. She’s another power house. She opened by saying, “Thank you all for coming. I’m glad you have enough shade, and I hope you have enough water.” Then she - [Ukrainian artist Krut wows audiences at the Vancouver Folk Music Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/20/ukrainian-artist-krut-wows-audiences-at-the-vancouver-folk-music-festival/) - I think this year the Vancouver Folk Music Festival is going to be about finding those artists I would not have discovered on my own. With that thought in mind, I’m really glad I arrived when I did. The first thing I did was check in with Lorenz Von Fersen in the information booth. He - [The 2024 Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival: A recap](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/19/the-2024-newfoundland-and-labrador-folk-festival-a-recap/) - It’s Monday morning, and the fog clings to the cliffs on Signal Hill. Some of it hangs low and curls its way onto the streets of downtown St. John’s, making the whole folk festival weekend feel like some sort of dream. I find myself doubting if it was even real. I have a ferry to - [The Vancouver Folk Music Festival is a chance to get acquainted with the folk of today](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/18/the-vancouver-folk-music-festival-is-a-chance-to-get-acquainted-with-the-folk-of-today/) - Okay, let’s face it, I’m old. I’m old like "I saw Joan Baez in concert" old. So for me the idea of folk music brings forward a memory of when music was a movement. People like Joan (Baez and Armatrading) Bob (Dylan of course), Peter, Paul and Mary, Jackson Browne and others were pointing out - [Dispatches from the Winnipeg Folk Festival - Day 2 (Friday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/17/dispatches-from-the-winnipeg-folk-festival-day-2-friday-2/) - Friday began with a lengthy delay at the gate and a mile-long lineup due to a not-so-dead skunk in the middle of the road, or path as the case may be! Many thanks to conservation officers who quickly apprehended and relocated our Pepe Le Pew before he could perfume the festival grounds. Unfortunately though, the - [Album review: Martin Kerr - What You Don't Know](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/17/album-review-martin-kerr-what-you-dont-know/) - This upbeat album opens with six finely-crafted songs with acoustic guitar accompaniment and concludes with equally pleasing piano versions of the same original tunes. Martin’s poetic lyrics are relatable, and he is clearly figuring out life one song at a time, muddling through like the rest of us. He is an accomplished guitar player with - [Dispatches from the Vancouver Island MusicFest - Day 3 (Sunday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/16/dispatches-from-the-vancouver-island-musicfest-day-3-sunday/) - Sunday, July 14 was another sunny hot day for the final day of MusicFest so again the name of the game was keeping cool. We started our day at one of our favourite stages, the Grierson Stage, where the music we heard coming into the festival site drew us in. JimJam (an Irish group) was - [Dispatches from the Vancouver Island Music Festival - Day 2 (Saturday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/15/dispatches-from-the-vancouver-island-music-festival-day-2-saturday/) - The name of the game at the Vancouver Island MusicFest (VIMF) on Saturday, July 13 was to keep cool. Although there was a light northerly breeze, the warm temperatures (high 20s) and bright sunshine made staying cool a priority. We opted to start our day in a shaded area in the main concert bowl to - [Dispatches from the Winnipeg Folk Festivaly - Day 1 (Thursday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/13/dispatches-from-the-winnipeg-folk-festivaly-day-1-thursday/) - The 2024 Winnipeg Folk Fest opened with another local success story. Between stints with Scruj MacDuhk (now The Duhks) and Juno-winners The Wailin’ Jennys, Ruth Moody quietly released her own music. This year, she not so quietly released The Wanderer, her third solo album. Ruth Moody brought that excitement, along with grace and beautiful voice, - [Dispatches from the Vancouver Island Music Festival - Day 1 (Friday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/13/dispatches-from-the-vancouver-island-music-festival-day-1-friday/) - Friday, July 12 offered a perfect night for enjoying a wide range of music at the opening of the Vancouver Island MusicFest in Courtenay, BC. Temperatures were ideal in the low 20 Cs, and my brother and his wife from Victoria joined us again this year. By the time they arrived and we had a - [Indigenous country star Jason Benoit leaves fans smiling with '1000 Mile Grin'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/12/indigenous-country-star-jason-benoit-leaves-fans-smiling-with-1000-mile-grin/) - When musicians leave their hometown for bigger musical hubs like Austin or Nashville, it can be a double-edged sword. One obvious drawback is sacrificing being with family and friends for a chance at stardom. Some leave jaded and hurt, often with a 1000-yard stare from the experience. But for Indigenous Newfoundland musician Jason Benoit, the - [Dispatches from the Mariposa Folk Festival - Day 3 (Sunday) daytime stages](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/09/dispatches-from-the-mariposa-folk-festival-day-3-sunday-daytime-stages/) - Sunday mornings are by far my favourite time at folk festivals. I’ve had time to settle in. I’m right in the middle of the total weekend experience. If the weather is cooperating, with that first cup of coffee in hand, all feels right with the world. And then on this particular Sunday morning, to make - [Dispatches from the Mariposa Folk Festival - Day 3 (Sunday) night time shows](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/09/dispatches-from-the-mariposa-folk-festival-day-3-sunday-night-time-shows/) - The Pub Stage was as crowded as I’ve ever seen it, with 14 people on the boards for the Cling Clang Rattle Bing Bang, Gonna Make Noise All Day! workshop, featuring Gordie MacKeeman and His Rhythm Boys, Rick Fines, Onion Honey, and Union Duke. While every band member in rootsy quintet Union Duke has great chops, and their - [Album review: Cherie Camp - Love and Blood](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/11/album-review-cherie-camp-love-and-blood/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. What a fascinating discovery we have here in the Roots Music Canada mailbox. Cherie Camp’s name may not be familiar to all but she’s had a significant and varied career, working alongside her composer-husband John Welsman on music for - [Video premiere: The Imagine If - 'Flowers'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/10/video-premiere-the-imagine-if-flowers/) - Back in March, we here at Roots Music Canada were pretty stoked to premiere the video for the debut single from The Imagine If's debut album, Great Expectations — which just came out on Friday. Singer Alia Logan is a blueswoman who knows how to belt out a song and infuse her performances with a - [Wow! At just 18, Mary Frances Leahy is taking Celtic/Latin jazz fusion to a new level](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/13/wow-at-just-18-mary-frances-leahy-is-taking-celtic-latin-jazz-fusion-to-a-new-level/) - In the ongoing race to predict the next teen craze, give yourself 10 points if you had … Celtic/Latin/jazz fusion fiddle? Hey, in a world where Lindsey Stirling has made the violin commercial again, anything can happen. And just one listen to First Light, the debut album from 18-year-old Ontario wunderkind Mary Frances Leahy, will - [Why Ally Corbett is heading home for the NL Folk Fest and why you should go too](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/09/why-ally-corbett-is-heading-home-for-the-nl-folk-fest-and-why-you-should-go-too/) - When the Newfoundland and Labrador Folk Festival announced that the July 13 headliners this year were Steve Earle and Emmylou Harris, it was the winning combination that convinced me to pack up my family and drive home for a few weeks this summer. I’ve been living on the mainland of Canada for a good while, - [Dispatches from the Mariposa Folk Festival - Day 2 (Saturday) evening concerts](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/08/dispatches-from-the-mariposa-folk-festival-day-2-saturday-evening-concerts/) - When we caught up with Colin Linden at the Boho Stage, he was telling a long, great story about the first time he met legendary bluesman Howlin’ Wolf, when Colin was just a precocious 11-year-old guitarist and already a lover of the blues. “He told me that you had to play the same for three - [Dispatches from the Mariposa Folk Festival - Day 2 (Saturday) daytime workshops](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/07/dispatches-from-the-mariposa-folk-festival-day-2-saturday-daytime-workshops/) - For weather watchers going into this weekend’s Mariposa Folk Festival — and who isn’t a weather watcher among festival goers and organizers —things looked pretty dicey right up until yesterday. Fortunately, the weather gods and goddesses decided to look kindly on this year’s offering and, but for a bit of drizzle for a short while - [Dispatches from the Mariposa Folk Festival - Night 1 (Friday)](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/06/dispatches-from-the-mariposa-folk-festival-night-1-friday/) - I started off the evening at the Pub Stage, where Blue Moon Marquee were knocking out the full-house crowd with their greasy, high-energy brands of swing, jump and bar-band blues. The focal point of the trio at centre stage is Jasmine Colette, a.k.a. Badlands Jass, who plays upright bass, kick drum, hi-hat and cymbal simultaneously - [The Mariposa Folk Festival: the songwriters](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/04/the-mariposa-folk-festival-the-songwriters/) - The Mariposa Folk Festival, taking place this weekend in Orillia's Tudhope Park, is one of the premier showcases for Canada’s greatest songwriters, and the 2024 lineup is no exception. For me, Donovan Woods just might be the best Canadian songwriter of his generation. Against all odds, he has not only maintained the extraordinarily high quality - [Richard Barry's must-see list for the Mariposa Folk Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/03/richard-barrys-must-see-list-for-the-mariposa-folk-festival/) - It had been a while since I'd attended a Mariposa Folk Festival prior to visiting the beautiful Tudhope Park site last year. I was reminded why the festival, Canada’s longest-lived, is one of the most important anywhere, especially with respect to what Billboard Canada in its review of this year’s offering called a “compelling and - [8 reasons why Mariposa 2024 will be a feast for my hungry ears](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/02/8-reasons-why-mariposa-2024-will-be-a-feast-for-my-hungry-ears/) - The Mariposa Folk Festival unfolds this weekend in Orillia, and as always, it's a veritable smorgasbord of talent. After a long winter of watching music indoors, it's time to kick off the season of enjoying it out in nature, and this year's line-up is a feast for my hungry ears. Here are eight reasons why. - [Shannon Thunderbird's "lost and found" is inspired by children lost at residential school](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/04/shannon-thunderbirds-lost-and-found-is-inspired-by-children-lost-at-residential-school/) - "Lost and Found" is the latest video off the album Walking Through the Fire by Sultans of String. Ts’msyen Elder Shannon Thunderbird wrote and sings the song. She is originally from the Pacific Northwest coast of British Columbia: Gilut'sau Band of the Royal House of Niis'gumiik, Gispudwada (Orca) Clan. The music is arranged and supported - [Album review: Lynne Hanson - Just a Poet](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/07/03/album-review-lynne-hanson-just-a-poet/) - Ottawa-based singer-songwriter Lynne Hanson has released her 10th studio album called Just a Poet. Lynne has again teamed up with producer Jim Bryson, who produced her 2020 release Just Words. Just a Poet combines beautifully-crafted, highly personal lyrics with her trademark vocals. The songs are a return to the “porch music with a little red - [Album review: Jiggity James - Citrus Sun](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/30/album-review-jiggity-james-citrus-sun/) - This debut album from Jiggity James sure is a bit of fun. Jiggity is a fixture on the live music scene in the Elora area, and his music is a mixture of rough-hewn country roots, 50s rock n’ roll, a bit of jazz, blues and ragtime piano – even a bit of tango on the - [Jan Vanderhorst launches third volume of Just Us Folk book series](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/29/jan-vanderhorst-launches-third-volume-of-just-us-folk-book-series/) - More often than not here at Roots Music Canada, your Saturday read is a story from Jan Vanderhorst, host of the long-running radio program-turned-podcast Just Us Folk. Every year, Jan interviews dozens of artists on his show then turns those interviews into stories for this fine website. And he has now published three volumes of - [Check out Ian North's brand new single, "China Moon," out today!](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/28/check-out-ian-norths-brand-new-single-china-moon-out-today/) - Distinguished Canadian singer-songwriter Ian North has carved out a niche in the contemporary music scene with his distinctive “fallen angel folk-rock,” evocative lyrics, and soulful melodies. After a long hiatus, and a near-death experience, Ian has worked his way back to creating music. Today, he’s releasing a new single, “China Moon,” from his upcoming third - [The Chat Room: Kelly Jamieson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/28/the-chat-room-kelly-jamieson/) - Kelly Jamieson considers himself a late bloomer as a singer-songwriter, but since the Collingwood, ON-based artist released his self-titled debut album in 2015, he has fully dedicated himself to the craft, and has slowly but consistently been building an impressive body of work that ranges from deftly executed heartland rock to lush balladry. Kelly displays - [Adrian Sutherland brings more Omushkegowuk Cree to Precious Diamonds](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/22/adrian-sutherland-brings-more-omushkegowuk-cree-to-precious-diamonds/) - When Adrian Sutherland recorded his debut solo album, When the Magic Hits, in 2021, he worked remotely with producer Colin Linden. While Colin was at his studio in Nashville Tennessee, Adrian constructed a recording studio out of a shipping container in his community of Attawapiskat First Nation on James Bay. The album earned nominations for - [Exclusive preview: Glenn Marais and the Mojo Train - 'Red Hot and Blue'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/26/exclusive-preview-glenn-marais-and-the-mojo-train-red-hot-and-blue/) - Glenn Marais is a Canadian bluesman with a fascinating history. He cowrite the Juno-nominated single "Everybody Wants to be Like You" with Canadian rapper Snow. He's been the runner up in a couple of high-profile Toronto radio station competitions, and his band's anti-bullying song, "Say My Name," has more than 2.5 million views on YouTube. - [Kingston roots rocker Christopher Jackson unveils new single "Best of Me"](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/27/kingston-roots-rocker-christopher-jackson-unveils-new-single-best-of-me/) - Kingston multi-instrumentalist Christopher Jackson is thrilled to announce the release of his new single, "Best of Me". https://open.spotify.com/track/6WMIfiN5K9OeNo9zQNm1yH?si=0e8a21018a1e489d The production evokes notes of 70s roots rock and alt-country, and blends folky Americana with Christopher's own twist. It encapsulates events and experiences in his life over the last few years. “'Best of Me' was written about - [Country crooner Angie Bohlke's 'Don't Give In' draws on personal experience](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/24/country-crooner-angie-bohlkes-dont-give-in-draws-on-personal-experience/) - Every once in a while, you need to hear a friend say, “Just keep going.” Would that they could all do it the way Canadian country upstart Angie Bohlke does on “Don’t Give In,” the latest single from her debut album, The Best Part of Me. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7P6kG2CkgIE It’s impossible to remain unswayed by Angie's sincerity - [Album review: The Grid Pickers - Heck Yes'm](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/25/album-review-the-grid-pickers-heck-yesm/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. Fort St. James, B.C. duo Michael and Rachel McKerracher have been playing music together for more than 15 years, but they remain somewhat under the radar relative to their talents. Skilled on fiddle, dobro, banjo, spoons, guitar, kazoo and - [The Chat Room: Harry Lee Follon](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/21/the-chat-room-harry-lee-follon/) - With his thick grey beard and ubiquitous wide-brimmed hat, Harry Lee Follon looks like a man transplanted from a previous century. But that timeless image is the ideal reflection of his music—pure, honest songs that are as emotionally resonant in 2024 as they would have been in 1924. On his new EP, Uncle’s Lament, Harry - [Tom Wilson Tehaohàhake releases 'Death Row Love Affair'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/20/tom-wilson-tehaohahake-releases-death-row-love-affair/) - This past April, the personal odyssey of Indigenous Canadian musician Tom Wilson Tehaohàhake hit a new milestone when his 2017 novel, Beautiful Scars: Steeltown Secrets, Mohawk Skywalkers and the Road Home — which had already been adapted into a 2022 film documentary — was presented as a stage musical at Hamilton’s Theatre Aquarius. Now, Tom's - [Aengus Finnan is biking across Canada while making us a musical map](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/19/aengus-finnan-is-biking-across-canada-while-making-us-a-musical-map/) - Folk singer-turned arts administrator Aengus Finnan is embarking on an epic musical journey this summer: he is cycling across Canada while collecting place-based songs and visiting their settings. He began the 8,000-kilometre Great Canadian Song Cycle in St. John's, NL last week. He plans to be in Pedder Bay, B.C. in time for the 50th - [New music from Twin Flames and Jeff Beadle](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/18/new-music-from-twin-flames-and-jeff-beadle/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. Twin Flames - “Bones” This new single from Twin Flames is a swampy, blues-tinged number punctuated by crunchy guitar sounds and featuring Jaiji’s mournful, vulnerable vocals singing lead. It’s a lament for the effects of intergenerational trauma on Indigenous - [Big Dave McLean launches new album co-produced by Steve Marriner](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/17/big-dave-mclean-launches-new-album-co-produced-by-steve-marriner/) - Is it possible to still be underrated at age 71, and after a five-decade career in which you’ve inspired just about everybody in Canadian blues? Big Dave McLean is about to answer an emphatic “yes” with This Old Life, an album that’s poised to finally shine the light of mass acclaim on his mighty talents - [Winterfolk Spring Edition - June 8 at the Redwood Theatre, Toronto](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/15/winterfolk-spring-edition-june-8-at-the-redwood-theatre-toronto/) - It was beginning to look a lot like Winterfolk. Up and down Gerrard Street East in Toronto last Saturday, guitar-packing hombres and earth mamas convened east of Greenwood for the long-running annual event. This time, a subtitle, The Spring Edition, was clearly necessary to clarify the branding, although T.O. weather had actually been verging onto - [The Chat Room: Berk Jodoin](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/14/the-chat-room-berk-jodoin/) - On Berk Jodoin’s new album, Fly Away, the Saskatchewan-based, Métis singer-songwriter gives us a glimpse into the challenges he has overcome over the course of his life, and further unflinching observations of how others in similar circumstances are struggling to survive in urban centres across North America. Inspired by the sounds of classic country and - [Jeffery Straker releases two vulnerable singles from his new album, Great Big Sky](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/13/jeffery-straker-releases-two-vulnerable-singles-from-his-new-album-great-big-sky/) - With modernization and urbanization comes big change – and inevitable sadness and nostalgia. Regina, SK-based folk artist Jeffery Straker captures a loss of rural identity in his new single “More Than Two by Fours and Timber,” in which he describes a grain elevator being bulldozed in a small farming town. Tinged with sunny sadness and - [Festival Chants de Vielles - 20 years of music at a human scale](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/12/festival-chants-de-vielles-20-years-of-music-at-a-human-scale/) - Twenty years ago, Nicolas Boulerice and Olivier Demers shoveled out manure from some barns in Calixa-Lavallée, QC, to host the first Festival Chants de Vielles. This little festival was about to become famous for its charming rural Québec setting, its intimacy and its human scale. That was in 2004. Aside from a one-year hiatus when - [Day 3 at the Springtide Music Festival in Uxbridge, ON](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/11/day-3-at-the-springtide-music-festival-in-uxbridge-on/) - For the third and final day of Springtide, I stayed at the Second Wedge Brewery’s outdoor stage – despite intermittent and at times quite heavy rain. For much of the late afternoon and evening, the crowd was a small sea of umbrellas, but spirits were buoyed by lots of little tykes running around, dancing, playing - [Day 2 at the Spring Tide Music Festival in Uxbridge, ON](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/10/day-2-at-the-spring-tide-music-festival-in-uxbridge-on/) - It was my first time at the Second Wedge brewery in Uxbridge, and the smallish, two-level space – with a large patio and windows open to the outside – was buzzing with activity. The shows here today were supposed to be outdoors, but the on-and-off rainfall moved them inside, where artists played in front of - [Day 1 at the Spring Tide Music Festival in Uxbridge, ON](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/08/day-1-at-the-spring-tide-music-festival-in-uxbridge-on/) - It’s my first time at the Uxbridge Music Hall, and it’s a gorgeous old venue with a semi-circular balcony in a town hall style that holds about 300 people. It's go great sound, great sightlines, and it's packed full for the opening night concert of the Springtide Music Festival. Alannah Kemp kicked off the night - [The Chat Room: David Picco](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/07/the-chat-room-david-picco/) - It’s safe to say that we’ve all been through some changes over the past few years, but for singer-songwriter David Picco, some major upheavals prompted him to try to rediscover joy in his life by getting back to basics with his music. A native of St. John’s, NL, David has recently been splitting his time - [Springtide Music Festival offers a chance to catch up with Moonfruits](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/06/springtide-music-festival-offers-a-chance-to-catch-up-with-moonfruits/) - While I’m looking forward to stage-hopping at The Springtide Music Festival 2024 (kudos to director Tania Joy and team for organizing another great lineup) and seeing bass groove-master Jerome Tucker and his band; indie alt-country darlings The Wanted; effortlessly cool electric guitarist Conor Gains; Ottawa-based, classically-trained singer-songwriter and road warrior Rory Taillon and more, I’m - [Julian Taylor to debut new single at this weekend's Springtide Music Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/05/julian-taylor-to-debut-new-single-at-this-weekends-springtide-music-festival/) - As the festival season is fast approaching, I keep seeing ads and posts about a relatively new festival happening in Uxbridge, ON. The Springtide Music Festival running this Thursday through Sunday is boasting a lineup that piqued my interest. Artists include the breakout alt-diva Begonia, Ottawa-based salt-of-the-earth duo Moonfruits, harmonious honeys The Good Lovelies, the - [Album review: Miscellany of Folk - Atlantic Sounds](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/04/album-review-miscellany-of-folk-atlantic-sounds/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. This lovely trans-Atlantic collaboration brings together Newfoundland multi-instrumentalist Billy Sutton - who’s toured and recorded with the Irish Descendants, Ron Hynes and the Ennis Sisters, among others – with Irish singer Eddie Costello and Irish button accordion virtuoso Benny - [Jerry Cans alum Gina Burgess releases contemplative new single from ISNOW](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/02/jerry-cans-alum-gina-burgess-releases-contemplative-new-single-from-isnow/) - There’s nothing all that bluesy or melancholy about “Kingsburg Blues,” the new single by ECMA Fusion Recording of the Year-winner Gina Burgess, although it is indeed haunting. Instead, the song, which blends psychedelic elements with Celtic and Inuit roots, takes us into a magical and mischievous fairy world shimmering with fireflies and secrets. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V4fOGpavFec There’s - [Angelique Francis releases a new single, 'Train Coming,' and announces tour dates](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/06/01/angelique-francis-releases-a-new-single-train-coming-and-announces-tour-dates/) - As she combines authentic blues, soul and gospel influences with smooth, rock-infused electric guitars, Juno Award winning artist Angelique Francis delivers a captivating performance on her new single “Train Coming.” The first single to be released ahead of her new album, Watch Me Grow, set to release this summer, “Train Coming” invites listeners to join - [The Chat Room: Sammy Volkov & Dana Wylie](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/05/31/the-chat-room-sammy-volkov-dana-wylie/) - There is something undeniably powerful about a great country music duet. Just think of George and Tammy, Dolly and Porter, Gram and Emmylou—two soaring voices expressing deep-rooted emotion in the most human way possible. Edmonton singer-songwriters Sammy Volkov and Dana Wylie realized from the first moment they sang together that they shared such a connection, - [Two shows at the Rogue Folk Club to take us into festival season](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/05/30/two-shows-at-the-rogue-folk-club-to-take-us-into-festival-season/) - Vancouver's Rogue Folk Club knows it's time to slow things down a bit while we all gear up for the summer festival season. That's why it's carefully picking and choosing what it presents for the late spring and summer so we don't end up blowing our kids' college fund on concert tickets. In fact, only - [Festival Mémoire et Racines turns 30 this year with an unforgettable line-up](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/05/29/festival-memoire-et-racines-turns-30-this-year-with-an-unforgettable-line-up/) - Thirty years! Wow! That’s how long Festival Mémoire et Racines has been running. It’s the biggest folk festival in Québec, and by all accounts, the friendliest and the best at showcasing the diverse musical traditions that the province has to offer. The 2024 edition promises to give us a taste of how the festival began - [Album review: Leaf Rapids - Velvet Paintings](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/05/28/album-review-leaf-rapids-velvet-paintings/) - Gordy the moose reviews some of his favourite new submissions to the Roots Music Canada virtual mailbox. The publicity shots for Leaf Rapids’ new album tell you much of what you need to know about the music you’ll hear on it. They feature the band posing on a red, crushed-velvet sofa, co-founder Devin Latimer sporting a - [The Chat Room: Ariana Dalie and Craig Smith of Four Winds Music Fest](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/05/24/the-chat-room-ariana-dalie-and-craig-smith-of-four-winds-music-fest/) - After a hugely successful inaugural year, Four Winds Music Fest is back July 12-14, 2024 to present some of Canada's finest artists in its bucolic setting. This year's line-up includes Bahamas, Terra Lightfoot, Joel Plaskett, Boy Golden, Great Lake Swimmers, Daniel Romano's Outfit, Logan Staats, Jerry Leger & The Situation, along with many others. Staged - [Ottawa Grassroots Festival Day 3 - Connie Kaldor and JPEW](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/04/28/ottawa-grassroots-festival-day-3-connie-kaldor-and-jpew/) - Award-winning Saskatchewan-based folk artist Connie Kaldor and her family took to the stage at the First Unitarian Congregation of Ottawa on April 27. The final headliner for the Ottawa Grassroots Festival this year was a complete sold-out performance. Opening for Connie was Ottawa-based canadiana girl band, JPEW, otherwise known as Jessica Pearson and the East - [Red Bird Live: a school, stage, and social hub for Ottawa's folk scene](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/05/11/red-bird-live-a-school-stage-and-social-hub-for-ottawas-folk-scene/) - Having been opened for nearly two years, Red Bird Live has gained a reputable and friendly name across Ottawa's music scene. The venue, which was previously an axe-throwing bar, has become one of the city’s most well-known music joints to unite fans and familiarize thems with local musicians. Almost every night, their shows are sold - [James Gordon releases new single: 'Lonesome as Hank Williams Tonight'](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/05/27/james-gordon-releases-new-single-lonesome-as-hank-williams-tonight/) - "I’m not prone to loneliness," Canadian folk singer James Gordon said of his new single, "Lonesome as Hank Williams Tonight." But that's hard to believe given the convincing wistfulness of the song, and that of some of the other tracks on his new, live album, Wrinkles and Scars. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=77ToPOUyRe4 On the other hand, James has - [Canadian Folk Fests still working toward financial stability post pandemic](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/05/25/canadian-folk-fests-still-working-toward-financial-stability-post-pandemic/) - Summer is quickly approaching, which also means the beginning of festival season. Many folk festivals across the country are gearing up for hosting entertaining line-ups and ushering in large groups of fans from all over — while also adapting to a changing landscape post COVID-19-related lockdowns. Last year saw the Vancouver Folk Music Festival come - [Vishtèn Connexions embodies the spirit of late Vishtèn founder Pastelle LeBlanc](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/2024/05/23/vishten-connexions-embodies-the-spirit-of-late-vishten-founder-pastelle-leblanc/) - Multiple award-winning Acadian roots duo (formerly trio) Vishtèn has joined forces with some of the finest East Coast and Francophone talent in Canada for its brand new album, Expansion, which is out tomorrow. 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[Outlaw Country](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/outlaw-country/) - [London Ontario](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/london-ontario/) - [Moncton](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/moncton/) - [Charlottetown](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/charlottetown/) - [Kingston](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/kingston/) - [Joe Nolan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/joe-nolan/) - [Lydia Loveless](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/lydia-loveless/) - [Cry Baby](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cry-baby/) - [Music In The Streets](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/music-in-the-streets/) - [Scott Franchuk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/scott-franchuk/) - [Colin Linden](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/colin-linden/) - [Cari Burdett](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cari-burdett/) - [Lhasa](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/lhasa/) - [surf rock](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/surf-rock/) - [Johnson Crook](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/johnson-crook/) - [Mining For Freedom](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/mining-for-freedom/) - [The Album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-album/) - [video premiere](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/video-premiere/) - [Dauphin Countryfest](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/dauphin-countryfest/) - [Calgary Stampede](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/calgary-stampede/) - [CNE](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cne/) - [The Hearts](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-hearts/) - [Sunshine EP](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sunshine-ep/) - [Vissia](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/vissia/) - [Bonnie Dobson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bonnie-dobson/) - [Morning Dew](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/morning-dew/) - [Canadian Songwriters Hall Of Fame](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/canadian-songwriters-hall-of-fame/) - [Grateful Dead](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/grateful-dead/) - [Jeff Beck](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jeff-beck/) - [Robert Plant](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/robert-plant/) - [Serena Ryder](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/serena-ryder/) - [Devo](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/devo/) - [Mariposa](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/mariposa/) - [Tim Rose](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tim-rose/) - [Fred Neil](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/fred-neil/) - [summer](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/summer/) - [Outdoor Concerts](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/outdoor-concerts/) - [Sherwood Park](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sherwood-park/) - [fiddle](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/fiddle/) - [Celtic](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/celtic/) - [Blues](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/blues/) - [Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/festival/) - [Bluesfest](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bluesfest/) - [live music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/live-music/) - [folk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/folk/) - [rock](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/rock/) - [Andrea Nixon](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/andrea-nixon/) - [Diary Of A Housewife](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/diary-of-a-housewife/) - [Million Miles Away](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/million-miles-away/) - [Stony Plain](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/stony-plain/) - [Alberta](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/alberta/) - [Ottawa Bluesfest 2018](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ottawa-bluesfest-2018/) - [Festivals](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/festivals/) - [Winnnipeg](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/winnnipeg/) - [country](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/country/) - [Jory Nash](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jory-nash/) - [Wilderness Years](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/wilderness-years/) - [Craig Robertson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/craig-robertson/) - [Late Mornings](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/late-mornings/) - [Cheap Old Watch](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cheap-old-watch/) - [Michael Timmins](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/michael-timmins/) - [Cowboy Junkies](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cowboy-junkies/) - [Sean Ryan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sean-ryan/) - [Gypsy Jazz](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/gypsy-jazz/) - [Bluegrass](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bluegrass/) - [Old Time](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/old-time/) - [Roots](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/roots/) - [Métis](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/metis/) - [Maritime](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/maritime/) - [Irish](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/irish/) - [Jennifer Holub](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jennifer-holub/) - [The Reckoning](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-reckoning/) - [Island](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/island/) - [Sudbury](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sudbury/) - [Belle Plaine](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/belle-plaine/) - [Malice Mercy Grief and Wrath](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/malice-mercy-grief-and-wrath/) - [Jason Plumb](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jason-plumb/) - [Blake Berglund](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/blake-berglund/) - [Megan Nash](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/megan-nash/) - [Golden Ring](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/golden-ring/) - [Saskatchewan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/saskatchewan/) - [Jasper Folk Music Festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jasper-folk-music-festival/) - [Wide Cut Weekend](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/wide-cut-weekend/) - [Folk Music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/folk-music/) - [Kyp Harness](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/kyp-harness/) - [Sweet Release](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sweet-release/) - [traditional](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/traditional/) - [Andrea Ramolo](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/andrea-ramolo/) - [Leonard Cohen](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/leonard-cohen/) - [Homage](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/homage/) - [Exclusive](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/exclusive/) - [The Maple City](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-maple-city/) - [Brief Golden Age](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/brief-golden-age/) - [Chatham](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/chatham/) - [Oh Susanna](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/oh-susanna/) - [New Album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/new-album/) - [East Coast](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/east-coast/) - [newfoundland](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/newfoundland/) - [comedy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/comedy/) - [Christmas](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/christmas/) - [Jazz](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jazz/) - [PIQSIQ](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/piqsiq/) - [Altering The Timeline](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/altering-the-timeline/) - [Tiffany Ayalik](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tiffany-ayalik/) - [Quantum Tangle](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/quantum-tangle/) - [Coax Records](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/coax-records/) - [Ruby Singh](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ruby-singh/) - [throat singing](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/throat-singing/) - [cape breton](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cape-breton/) - [quebecois](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/quebecois/) - [Gospel](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/gospel/) - [Pop](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/pop/) - [Tara Macri](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tara-macri/) - [Meet Me On Mars](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/meet-me-on-mars/) - [Big Band](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/big-band/) - [Hugh's Room Live](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/hughs-room-live/) - [Canadian](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/canadian/) - [Guitarist](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/guitarist/) - [Canadian Music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/canadian-music/) - [Rik Emmett](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/rik-emmett/) - [Darcy Windover](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/darcy-windover/) - [How To Be Lonely](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/how-to-be-lonely/) - [Cope](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cope/) - [Cam's Kids](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cams-kids/) - [Carole King](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/carole-king/) - [Guitar](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/guitar/) - [Robi Botos](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/robi-botos/) - [Romani](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/romani/) - [Jim Dan Dee](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jim-dan-dee/) - [Danny Marks](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/danny-marks/) - [Tomato Tomato](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tomato-tomato/) - [Kite Song](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/kite-song/) - [Canary In A Coal Mine](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/canary-in-a-coal-mine/) - [Saint John](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/saint-john/) - [Latin Jazz](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/latin-jazz/) - [Pink Floyd](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/pink-floyd/) - [James Taylor](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/james-taylor/) - [Miss Emily](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/miss-emily/) - [Suzie Vinnick](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/suzie-vinnick/) - [harmonica](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/harmonica/) - [cuban](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cuban/) - [Fundraiser](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/fundraiser/) - [Paul Reddick](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/paul-reddick/) - [Geoff Berner](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/geoff-berner/) - [Ben Caplan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ben-caplan/) - [2019 tour](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/2019-tour/) - [R&b](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/rb/) - [Soul](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/soul/) - [Joni Mitchell](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/joni-mitchell/) - [Celtic Music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/celtic-music/) - [Sheila Soares](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sheila-soares/) - [All There Is](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/all-there-is/) - [NewMusic](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/newmusic/) - [Festival Place](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/festival-place/) - [Allison](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/allison/) - [Ken Whiteley](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ken-whiteley/) - [Sylvia Tyson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sylvia-tyson/) - [Jason Fowler](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jason-fowler/) - [Nat King Cole](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/nat-king-cole/) - [Ori Dagan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ori-dagan/) - [Django](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/django/) - [Crystal Shawanda](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/crystal-shawanda/) - [David Newland](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/david-newland/) - [Kim Doolittle](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/kim-doolittle/) - [David Picco](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/david-picco/) - [I Can't Lose You](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/i-cant-lose-you/) - [Out Of The Past](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/out-of-the-past/) - [acoustic](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/acoustic/) - [This Frontier Needs Heroes](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/this-frontier-needs-heroes/) - [Brad Lauretti](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/brad-lauretti/) - [Canadian tour](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/canadian-tour/) - [Terry Savage](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/terry-savage/) - [Rollin' Heavy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/rollin-heavy/) - [Full Pull](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/full-pull/) - [NB](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/nb/) - [canada](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/canada/) - [Twas Now](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/twas-now/) - [Flesh and Bone](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/flesh-and-bone/) - [Family Roots](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/family-roots/) - [Ariana Gillis](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ariana-gillis/) - [Indie](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/indie/) - [Antoine Dufour](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/antoine-dufour/) - [Tom Wilson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tom-wilson/) - [Workshop](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/workshop/) - [Jayme Stone](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jayme-stone/) - [Songwriting](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/songwriting/) - [Ottawa Bluesfest](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ottawa-bluesfest/) - [Ottawa Bluesfest 2019](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ottawa-bluesfest-2019/) - [Review](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/review/) - [Abigail Lapell](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/abigail-lapell/) - [Little Steven](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/little-steven/) - [US Girls](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/us-girls/) - [Alt-J](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/alt-j/) - [Chvrches](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/chvrches/) - [Dear Me](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/dear-me/) - [NewMusicFriday](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/newmusicfriday/) - [Sue Foley](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sue-foley/) - [Buddy Guy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/buddy-guy/) - [Stella Lennon](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/stella-lennon/) - [The Trews](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-trews/) - [Bearings](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bearings/) - [Bluesfest 2019](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bluesfest-2019/) - [America](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/america/) - [Pussy Riot](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/pussy-riot/) - [KNaan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/knaan/) - [Snoop Dog](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/snoop-dog/) - [Matt Andersen](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/matt-andersen/) - [Ikireza](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ikireza/) - [Backstreet Boys](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/backstreet-boys/) - [James Keelaghan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/james-keelaghan/) - [Drew Jurecka](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/drew-jurecka/) - [World](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/world/) - [Led Zeppelin](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/led-zeppelin/) - [Johnny Cash](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/johnny-cash/) - [Cadillac](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cadillac/) - [Don Ross](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/don-ross/) - [George Olliver](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/george-olliver/) - [Jay Douglas](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jay-douglas/) - [Lance Anderson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/lance-anderson/) - [Farewell](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/farewell/) - [Chris Whiteley](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/chris-whiteley/) - [Diana Braithwaite](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/diana-braithwaite/) - [Juno Nominee](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/juno-nominee/) - [Bruce Springsteen](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bruce-springsteen/) - [The Beatles](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-beatles/) - [Neil Little](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/neil-little/) - [Scott Merritt](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/scott-merritt/) - [Bob Dylan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bob-dylan/) - [David Francey](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/david-francey/) - [Live Music Toronto](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/live-music-toronto/) - [Joe Cocker](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/joe-cocker/) - [Leon Russell](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/leon-russell/) - [Stronger Then The Storm](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/stronger-then-the-storm/) - [cityfolk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cityfolk/) - [folk festival](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/folk-festival/) - [CityFolk 2019](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cityfolk-2019/) - [CityFok](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cityfok/) - [Tom Rush](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tom-rush/) - [Old Man Luedecke](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/old-man-luedecke/) - [Elton John](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/elton-john/) - [Etta James](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/etta-james/) - [Theatre](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/theatre/) - [Steve Briggs](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/steve-briggs/) - [Amy Winehouse](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/amy-winehouse/) - [David Bowie](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/david-bowie/) - [Sumach Roots](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sumach-roots/) - [Jason Wilson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jason-wilson/) - [Toronto History](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/toronto-history/) - [Canadiana](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/canadiana/) - [global](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/global/) - [April Wine](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/april-wine/) - [Myles Goodwyn](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/myles-goodwyn/) - [benefit](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/benefit/) - [maritimes](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/maritimes/) - [nashville](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/nashville/) - [Nick Drake](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/nick-drake/) - [Siobhan Sloane-Seale](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/siobhan-sloane-seale/) - [One Of My Friends](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/one-of-my-friends/) - [New Music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/new-music/) - [Folk Rock](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/folk-rock/) - [Instrumental](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/instrumental/) - [Sandra Bouza](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sandra-bouza/) - [Almost Love](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/almost-love/) - [Falling Away From Me](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/falling-away-from-me/) - [NeoSoul](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/neosoul/) - [Hugh Christopher Brown](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/hugh-christopher-brown/) - [Stephen Stanley](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/stephen-stanley/) - [Suzanne Jarvie](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/suzanne-jarvie/) - [Wolfe Island](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/wolfe-island/) - [Gospel Brunch](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/gospel-brunch/) - [Barry James Payne](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/barry-james-payne/) - [String Bone](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/string-bone/) - [Christina Martin](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/christina-martin/) - [Al Lerman](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/al-lerman/) - [The Cassidys](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-cassidys/) - [Tula](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tula/) - [The Band](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-band/) - [Aretha Franklin](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/aretha-franklin/) - [Music Education](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/music-education/) - [Steve Strongman](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/steve-strongman/) - [Chris Landry](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/chris-landry/) - [Seasick Mommas](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/seasick-mommas/) - [Alt Country](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/alt-country/) - [Craig Cardiff](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/craig-cardiff/) - [Boreal](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/boreal/) - [Holiday Music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/holiday-music/) - [Christmas Concert](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/christmas-concert/) - [Kellylee Evans](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/kellylee-evans/) - [2020](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/2020/) - [Connie Kaldor](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/connie-kaldor/) - [Anwar Khurshid](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/anwar-khurshid/) - [World Music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/world-music/) - [John Sheard](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/john-sheard/) - [John Borra](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/john-borra/) - [Blue Wine](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/blue-wine/) - [Tracy Wright](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tracy-wright/) - [Blue Rodeo](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/blue-rodeo/) - [Van Morrison](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/van-morrison/) - [Quisha Wint](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/quisha-wint/) - [Lynn Harrison](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/lynn-harrison/) - [Ayla Brook](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ayla-brook/) - [Fallen Tree Records](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/fallen-tree-records/) - [Terra Lightfoot](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/terra-lightfoot/) - [Jon Auer](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jon-auer/) - [Roots Rock](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/roots-rock/) - [Jazz Piano](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jazz-piano/) - [Live Music Venue](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/live-music-venue/) - [100 mile house](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/100-mile-house/) - [Worth The Wait](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/worth-the-wait/) - [Love And Leave You](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/love-and-leave-you/) - [Duo](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/duo/) - [Allison Lupton](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/allison-lupton/) - [jerry leger](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jerry-leger/) - [Mike Plume](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/mike-plume/) - [Royalty Records](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/royalty-records/) - [Younger Than We Are Today](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/younger-than-we-are-today/) - [Lonesome Stretch Of Highway](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/lonesome-stretch-of-highway/) - [Bob Dylan Tribute](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bob-dylan-tribute/) - [Paul James](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/paul-james/) - [Non-Profit](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/non-profit/) - [Classical](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/classical/) - [North Atlantic Drift](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/north-atlantic-drift/) - [FAI](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/fai/) - [FAI2020](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/fai2020/) - [Folk Alliance](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/folk-alliance/) - [New Orleans](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/new-orleans/) - [Social Justice](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/social-justice/) - [Peace](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/peace/) - [Face The Music Cooperative](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/face-the-music-cooperative/) - [chamber folk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/chamber-folk/) - [classically-trained](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/classically-trained/) - [Chris Antonik](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/chris-antonik/) - [Muddy Waters](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/muddy-waters/) - [Bruce Cockburn](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bruce-cockburn/) - [Coco Montoya](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/coco-montoya/) - [Del Barber](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/del-barber/) - [2020 Tour](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/2020-tour/) - [Composer](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/composer/) - [Logan and Nathan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/logan-and-nathan/) - [The Happening](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-happening/) - [Rex Smallboy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/rex-smallboy/) - [premiere](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/premiere/) - [Great Lake Swimmers](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/great-lake-swimmers/) - [Picastro](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/picastro/) - [Weewerk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/weewerk/) - [Mallory Chipman](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/mallory-chipman/) - [The Mystics](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-mystics/) - [Aquarian](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/aquarian/) - [Fruits](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/fruits/) - [exclusive premiere](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/exclusive-premiere/) - [Drifters](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/drifters/) - [Jaguar](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jaguar/) - [Single premiere](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/single-premiere/) - [Monica Lee](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/monica-lee/) - [Only One](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/only-one/) - [ClassicCountry](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/classiccountry/) - [The Orchard](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-orchard/) - [Whatever Gets You High](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/whatever-gets-you-high/) - [Chris Birkett](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/chris-birkett/) - [One Eyed Oracle](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/one-eyed-oracle/) - [Shane Cloutier](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/shane-cloutier/) - [Sultans Of String](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sultans-of-string/) - [Kylie Fox](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/kylie-fox/) - [The Hello Darlins](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-hello-darlins/) - [Still Waters](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/still-waters/) - [Clayton Bellamy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/clayton-bellamy/) - [Francine Honey](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/francine-honey/) - [Glen Foster](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/glen-foster/) - [Hambre & Dolores](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/hambre-dolores/) - [Grotoko](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/grotoko/) - [Jeff Orson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jeff-orson/) - [Dalannah](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/dalannah/) - [Dalannah Gail Bowen](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/dalannah-gail-bowen/) - [Anthony Aramouni](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/anthony-aramouni/) - [Lynn Jackson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/lynn-jackson/) - [Lionheart](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/lionheart/) - [Busted Flat Records](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/busted-flat-records/) - [Kitchener](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/kitchener/) - [David Clayton-Thomas](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/david-clayton-thomas/) - [Fresh Breath](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/fresh-breath/) - [Carolyn Fe](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/carolyn-fe/) - [Jon Stancer](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jon-stancer/) - [Comes A Time](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/comes-a-time/) - [Song premiere](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/song-premiere/) - [Oliver James Brooks](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/oliver-james-brooks/) - [Bryce Clifford](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bryce-clifford/) - [LAMBLION](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/lamblion/) - [The All Canadian Soundclash](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-all-canadian-soundclash/) - [Mike Bern](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/mike-bern/) - [Downchild](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/downchild/) - [Midnight Shine](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/midnight-shine/) - [Adrian Sutherland](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/adrian-sutherland/) - [James Bay](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/james-bay/) - [Attawapiskat](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/attawapiskat/) - [Katie Ditschun](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/katie-ditschun/) - [The Kingpins](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-kingpins/) - [Jim Byrnes](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jim-byrnes/) - [Ladies Sing the Blues](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ladies-sing-the-blues/) - [Blue Frog Studios](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/blue-frog-studios/) - [Kenny "Blues Boss" Wayne](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/kenny-blues-boss-wayne/) - [The Peacemaker's Chauffeur](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-peacemakers-chauffeur/) - [Jackie Mittoo](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jackie-mittoo/) - [Warrior](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/warrior/) - [reggae](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/reggae/) - [Proper Music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/proper-music/) - [Jesse Cook](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jesse-cook/) - [James Cohen and the Prairie Roots Rockers](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/james-cohen-and-the-prairie-roots-rockers/) - [Natalie MacMaster](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/natalie-macmaster/) - [Donnell Leahy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/donnell-leahy/) - [Greg Rider](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/greg-rider/) - [Twin Flames](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/twin-flames/) - [The Actual Goners](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-actual-goners/) - [Alexis Taylor](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/alexis-taylor/) - [Toronto Tabla Ensemble](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/toronto-tabla-ensemble/) - [Ryan Hillier](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ryan-hillier/) - [Trevor Sloan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/trevor-sloan/) - [Matt Morson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/matt-morson/) - [Desolation Sounds](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/desolation-sounds/) - [Wide Mouth Mason](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/wide-mouth-mason/) - [Roxanne Potvin](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/roxanne-potvin/) - [Jump In](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jump-in/) - [Comino Music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/comino-music/) - [Tony Quarrington](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tony-quarrington/) - [Zoey Adams](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/zoey-adams/) - [David McLachlan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/david-mclachlan/) - [Joel Lee](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/joel-lee/) - [Holly Clausius](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/holly-clausius/) - [PaulStar](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/paulstar/) - [The Road Hammers](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-road-hammers/) - [It's A Long Long Way](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/its-a-long-long-way/) - [Kyra and Tully](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/kyra-and-tully/) - [Tony D](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tony-d/) - [Jeff Gay](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jeff-gay/) - [Downchild Blues Band](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/downchild-blues-band/) - [Mary Garnett Edwards](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/mary-garnett-edwards/) - [Leah Barley](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/leah-barley/) - [Bring Out Your Dead](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bring-out-your-dead/) - [Mountains](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/mountains/) - [debut album](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/debut-album/) - [Bent Roads Tavern](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bent-roads-tavern/) - [Angel Baribeau](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/angel-baribeau/) - [Imogen Joy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/imogen-joy/) - [Howard Gladstone](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/howard-gladstone/) - [folk-pop](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/folk-pop/) - [political songs](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/political-songs/) - [Nathan McKay](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/nathan-mckay/) - [Two Stars Collide](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/two-stars-collide/) - [Stratford](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/stratford/) - [electro-folk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/electro-folk/) - [Chairmen Of The Boards](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/chairmen-of-the-boards/) - [Surfin' The Apocalypse](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/surfin-the-apocalypse/) - [HemlockHotel](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/hemlockhotel/) - [Iranian music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/iranian-music/) - [contemporary world music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/contemporary-world-music/) - [world fusion](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/world-fusion/) - [Awards](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/awards/) - [Folk Music Ontario](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/folk-music-ontario/) - [Songs from the Heart](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/songs-from-the-heart/) - [HuDost](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/hudost/) - [Harry Hannah](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/harry-hannah/) - [Guelph](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/guelph/) - [Award winners](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/award-winners/) - [Estelle Klein Award](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/estelle-klein-award/) - [Traditional folk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/traditional-folk/) - [Marianne Faithful](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/marianne-faithful/) - [alt folk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/alt-folk/) - [Terrence & The High Flyers](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/terrence-the-high-flyers/) - [Arctic Hallows](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/arctic-hallows/) - [Indigenous renaissance](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/indigenous-renaissance/) - [River North](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/river-north/) - [Peterborough](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/peterborough/) - [Rick Fines](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/rick-fines/) - [acoustic blues](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/acoustic-blues/) - [jazzy folk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jazzy-folk/) - [contemporary folk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/contemporary-folk/) - [ns](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ns/) - [contemporary Celtic](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/contemporary-celtic/) - [Indigenous](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/indigenous/) - [Steve Hill](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/steve-hill/) - [indie folk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/indie-folk/) - [COVID-19](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/covid-19/) - [legend](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/legend/) - [political folk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/political-folk/) - [The Fugitives](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-fugitives/) - [country-folk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/country-folk/) - [Murray McLauchlan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/murray-mclauchlan/) - [folk legends](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/folk-legends/) - [Millbrook](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/millbrook/) - [Brampton](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/brampton/) - [song craft](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/song-craft/) - [country-roots](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/country-roots/) - [Windsor](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/windsor/) - [Bandcamp Day](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bandcamp-day/) - [holiday](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/holiday/) - [working class](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/working-class/) - [livestream](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/livestream/) - [streaming concert](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/streaming-concert/) - [James Culleton](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/james-culleton/) - [Yukon](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/yukon/) - [Villages](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/villages/) - [Upon the Horizon](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/upon-the-horizon/) - [Sonic Records](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sonic-records/) - [Phil Ek](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/phil-ek/) - [prairies](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/prairies/) - [recipes](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/recipes/) - [Nunavut](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/nunavut/) - [Carla Muller](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/carla-muller/) - [The Record Breakers](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-record-breakers/) - [Taylor Abrahamse](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/taylor-abrahamse/) - [Nadjiwan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/nadjiwan/) - [Kelly Fraser](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/kelly-fraser/) - [Rebound Girl](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/rebound-girl/) - [Heading North Music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/heading-north-music/) - [humour](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/humour/) - [trad](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/trad/) - [The Wanted](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-wanted/) - [Strange Flight](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/strange-flight/) - [Before The Fall](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/before-the-fall/) - [Julian Taylor](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/julian-taylor/) - [Jack deKeyzer](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jack-dekeyzer/) - [Laura Fernandez](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/laura-fernandez/) - [Melanie Peterson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/melanie-peterson/) - [Mandy Goodhandy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/mandy-goodhandy/) - [Donné Roberts](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/donne-roberts/) - [Sue and Dwight](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sue-and-dwight/) - [Q&A](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/qa/) - [Winterfolk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/winterfolk/) - [sea shanties](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sea-shanties/) - [Ontarians](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ontarians/) - [Time](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/time/) - [Collingwood](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/collingwood/) - [Sault Ste. Marie](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sault-ste-marie/) - [Laurie LeBlanc](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/laurie-leblanc/) - [Kele Fleming](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/kele-fleming/) - [Mark J. Nyvlt](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/mark-j-nyvlt/) - [This 'n' That](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/this-n-that/) - [Folk Jazz](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/folk-jazz/) - [Irving Berlin](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/irving-berlin/) - [Jerry Garcia](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jerry-garcia/) - [Facebook Live](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/facebook-live/) - [tango](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tango/) - [latin music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/latin-music/) - [Bryce Thomas](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bryce-thomas/) - [Perpetual Motion Machines](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/perpetual-motion-machines/) - [Across The Neuro Seas](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/across-the-neuro-seas/) - [YouTube](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/youtube/) - [Mister K](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/mister-k/) - [Black Lives Matter](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/black-lives-matter/) - [The Slowinks](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-slowinks/) - [One Shoe](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/one-shoe/) - [Stay With Me Awhile](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/stay-with-me-awhile/) - [sea shanty](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sea-shanty/) - [Joseph Brooks Organ](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/joseph-brooks-organ/) - [Samways](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/samways/) - [Cameron and Crawford](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cameron-and-crawford/) - [Steve Paul Simms](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/steve-paul-simms/) - [Shannon Dooks](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/shannon-dooks/) - [Frank Patrick](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/frank-patrick/) - [The Tree](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-tree/) - [Deanna Faye](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/deanna-faye/) - [Kyle McKearney](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/kyle-mckearney/) - [Paul Kuzbik](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/paul-kuzbik/) - [canadian folk music awards](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/canadian-folk-music-awards/) - [Tommy John Ehman](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tommy-john-ehman/) - [Chris Ronald](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/chris-ronald/) - [Robinson Kirby](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/robinson-kirby/) - [Tragically Hip](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tragically-hip/) - [Indigenous music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/indigenous-music/) - [Christopher Ward](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/christopher-ward/) - [Alannah Myles](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/alannah-myles/) - [MuchMusic](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/muchmusic/) - [Conrad Bigknife](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/conrad-bigknife/) - [The Divorcees](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-divorcees/) - [Women In Song](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/women-in-song/) - [Merilainen Music Inc.](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/merilainen-music-inc/) - [British Columbia](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/british-columbia/) - [Suzie Ungerleider](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/suzie-ungerleider/) - [playlist](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/playlist/) - [CCMA](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ccma/) - [Pride Month](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/pride-month/) - [Brendan Scott Friel](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/brendan-scott-friel/) - [Steve Marriner](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/steve-marriner/) - [Monkeyjunk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/monkeyjunk/) - [Allison Russell](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/allison-russell/) - [Canadian music week](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/canadian-music-week/) - [documentary](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/documentary/) - [The Redhill Valleys](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-redhill-valleys/) - [Finish Line](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/finish-line/) - [Buffy Sainte-Marie](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/buffy-sainte-marie/) - [Mel Brooks](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/mel-brooks/) - [Steve Earle](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/steve-earle/) - [Bob Geldof](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bob-geldof/) - [Alison Moyet](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/alison-moyet/) - [Dexys Midnight Runners](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/dexys-midnight-runners/) - [Talking Heads](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/talking-heads/) - [The Pogues](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-pogues/) - [Dylan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/dylan/) - [Marshall Potts](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/marshall-potts/) - [Claire Whitehead](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/claire-whitehead/) - [NFT](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/nft/) - [cryptocurrency](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cryptocurrency/) - [Cameron & Crawford](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cameron-crawford/) - [Son Of Dave](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/son-of-dave/) - [J.C. Brae](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/j-c-brae/) - [The Weber Brothers](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-weber-brothers/) - [Choose Your Own Adventure](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/choose-your-own-adventure/) - [Ronnie Hawkins](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ronnie-hawkins/) - [rock and roll](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/rock-and-roll/) - [Nathan Lawr](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/nathan-lawr/) - [Apocalypse Marshmallow](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/apocalypse-marshmallow/) - [Minotaurs](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/minotaurs/) - [Myranda Christi](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/myranda-christi/) - [Meantime](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/meantime/) - [Stray Dogs](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/stray-dogs/) - [Acronym Records](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/acronym-records/) - [Deanna Drudge](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/deanna-drudge/) - [Down On The Drive](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/down-on-the-drive/) - [Jump Into Music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jump-into-music/) - [Bree Taylor](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bree-taylor/) - [The Lucky Ones](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-lucky-ones/) - [Whitehorse](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/whitehorse/) - [Dawson City](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/dawson-city/) - [string band](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/string-band/) - [old time music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/old-time-music/) - [Raina Krangle](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/raina-krangle/) - [Donita Large](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/donita-large/) - [Graham Brown Band](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/graham-brown-band/) - [Spirit And Soul](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/spirit-and-soul/) - [Haunted](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/haunted/) - [Adrienne Nye](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/adrienne-nye/) - [Don Graham](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/don-graham/) - [lifestyle](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/lifestyle/) - [housing](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/housing/) - [tiny houses](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tiny-houses/) - [Janet Cull](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/janet-cull/) - [Hear It](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/hear-it/) - [Barney Bentall](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/barney-bentall/) - [Geoffrey Kelly](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/geoffrey-kelly/) - [RanchWriters](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ranchwriters/) - [T. Buckley](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/t-buckley/) - [Marilyn](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/marilyn/) - [Frame By Frame](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/frame-by-frame/) - [Carmen Braden](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/carmen-braden/) - [Hot Mondy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/hot-mondy/) - [Jaclyn Reinhart](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jaclyn-reinhart/) - [Sleep With Ghosts](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sleep-with-ghosts/) - [Rearview](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/rearview/) - [James Gordon](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/james-gordon/) - [Joey Nowyuk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/joey-nowyuk/) - [Jacob Okatisak](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jacob-okatisak/) - [Brenda Montana](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/brenda-montana/) - [and Angela Amarualik](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/and-angela-amarualik/) - [ViVA Trio](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/viva-trio/) - [Glenn Dixon](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/glenn-dixon/) - [Downtown Exit](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/downtown-exit/) - [Jr. Gone Wild](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jr-gone-wild/) - [Still Got The Jacket](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/still-got-the-jacket/) - [Gordie Tentrees](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/gordie-tentrees/) - [Mean Old World](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/mean-old-world/) - [Wind Walker](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/wind-walker/) - [Tom Jackson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tom-jackson/) - [Steven Heighton](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/steven-heighton/) - [estelle klein](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/estelle-klein/) - [Juan Carlos Medrano](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/juan-carlos-medrano/) - [Séan McCann](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sean-mccann/) - [Jewish music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jewish-music/) - [Tonny Quarrington](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tonny-quarrington/) - [David Vest](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/david-vest/) - [JukeBox County](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jukebox-county/) - [Rich Tyo](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/rich-tyo/) - [Sonia Aimy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sonia-aimy/) - [David Gogo](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/david-gogo/) - [reissue](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/reissue/) - [Josh Ritchie](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/josh-ritchie/) - [MARITO MARQUES](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/marito-marques/) - [Erika Lamon](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/erika-lamon/) - [Live from Christ Church Cathedral](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/live-from-christ-church-cathedral/) - [Inuit](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/inuit/) - [track-by-track breakdown](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/track-by-track-breakdown/) - [John Muirhead](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/john-muirhead/) - [Traveller](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/traveller/) - [album release](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/album-release/) - [Buffy MacNeil](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/buffy-macneil/) - [Dany Horovitz](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/dany-horovitz/) - [Over The Moon](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/over-the-moon/) - [Haley K Turner](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/haley-k-turner/) - [Adam Sandler](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/adam-sandler/) - [The Honeyrunners](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-honeyrunners/) - [Erika Kulnys](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/erika-kulnys/) - [Leanne Pearson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/leanne-pearson/) - [Great Big Sea](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/great-big-sea/) - [Catia Dignard](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/catia-dignard/) - [ontario](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ontario/) - [Jeremy Macklin](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jeremy-macklin/) - [Jeff Gunn](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jeff-gunn/) - [Lawrence Maxwell](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/lawrence-maxwell/) - [Ballad Of Miles](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ballad-of-miles/) - [Listening To Keith Whitley](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/listening-to-keith-whitley/) - [Better You](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/better-you/) - [Li'l Andy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/lil-andy/) - [Out On The Old Highway](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/out-on-the-old-highway/) - [Faeya](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/faeya/) - [venues](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/venues/) - [music business](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/music-business/) - [The Co-Conspirators](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-co-conspirators/) - [Shirley Eikhard](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/shirley-eikhard/) - [Sarah Tolle](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sarah-tolle/) - [Slow Dance Square Dance Barn Dance](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/slow-dance-square-dance-barn-dance/) - [Queen M](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/queen-m/) - [Colour Of Her Skin](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/colour-of-her-skin/) - [Marcia Alderson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/marcia-alderson/) - [JC Campbell](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jc-campbell/) - [Lately](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/lately/) - [Walk In Love](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/walk-in-love/) - [Dan Frechette](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/dan-frechette/) - [Laurel Thomsen](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/laurel-thomsen/) - [HOROJO Trio](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/horojo-trio/) - [Ukrainian music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ukrainian-music/) - [memoir](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/memoir/) - [Edison Rupert](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/edison-rupert/) - [Village Manor](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/village-manor/) - [Spirit Trail](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/spirit-trail/) - [Ben Sures](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ben-sures/) - [The Story That Lived Here](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-story-that-lived-here/) - [interview](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/interview/) - [Peter Serrado](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/peter-serrado/) - [Singers For Hope](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/singers-for-hope/) - [celtic-rock](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/celtic-rock/) - [Jackie K](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jackie-k/) - [country rock](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/country-rock/) - [Ron Kalmakoff](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ron-kalmakoff/) - [Jim Cuddy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jim-cuddy/) - [Foreman & Co.](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/foreman-co/) - [Matt Zaddy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/matt-zaddy/) - [Taze Kozak](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/taze-kozak/) - [ANGELIQUE FRANCIS](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/angelique-francis/) - [obituary](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/obituary/) - [Mike Stevens](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/mike-stevens/) - [Toronto Canada](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/toronto-canada/) - [Grand Manan Island New Brunswick](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/grand-manan-island-new-brunswick/) - [Horsefly B.C.](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/horsefly-b-c/) - [skoden](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/skoden/) - [Nanaimo](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/nanaimo/) - [Duke Redbird](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/duke-redbird/) - [Fredericton](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/fredericton/) - [Hezekiah Procter](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/hezekiah-procter/) - [Sheesham & Lotus](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sheesham-lotus/) - [The Goddamsels](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-goddamsels/) - [Wayward Daughter](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/wayward-daughter/) - [Sunshine Coast](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sunshine-coast/) - [Grenville Sur La Rouge](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/grenville-sur-la-rouge/) - [Neil Young](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/neil-young/) - [Official Bootleg Series](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/official-bootleg-series/) - [Grandfather](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/grandfather/) - [Kip Moore](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/kip-moore/) - [Home Studios](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/home-studios/) - [teve Strongman](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/teve-strongman/) - [Harrison Kennedy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/harrison-kennedy/) - [Dawn Tyler Watson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/dawn-tyler-watson/) - [memoire](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/memoire/) - [Travel Well](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/travel-well/) - [new release](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/new-release/) - [Skinny Dyck](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/skinny-dyck/) - [In On The Upswing](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/in-on-the-upswing/) - [TV Blue](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tv-blue/) - [Sound Asleep Records](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sound-asleep-records/) - [country music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/country-music/) - [Wilco](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/wilco/) - [Cruel Country](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cruel-country/) - [Coco Méliès](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/coco-melies/) - [Cynthia Hamar](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cynthia-hamar/) - [Shaken](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/shaken/) - [Joint And Marrow](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/joint-and-marrow/) - [Neon Moon Records](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/neon-moon-records/) - [Youngtree & The Blooms](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/youngtree-the-blooms/) - [Heaven Ain't A Lonely Road](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/heaven-aint-a-lonely-road/) - [Durham County Poets](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/durham-county-poets/) - [Morgan x Barrie](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/morgan-x-barrie/) - [Earthquake](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/earthquake/) - [Jeff Hope](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jeff-hope/) - [Big Little Lions](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/big-little-lions/) - [Henry Lees](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/henry-lees/) - [Hayley Wallis](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/hayley-wallis/) - [Francesca Panetta](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/francesca-panetta/) - [Blue Moon Marquee](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/blue-moon-marquee/) - [Mark Wihlidal](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/mark-wihlidal/) - [Alexandra Babiak](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/alexandra-babiak/) - [new single](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/new-single/) - [Magical Thinking](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/magical-thinking/) - [Settle Down](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/settle-down/) - [River Rain](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/river-rain/) - [Gordie “Crazylegs” MacKeeman](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/gordie-crazylegs-mackeeman/) - [THUNDERCLAP!](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/thunderclap/) - [Steve Neville](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/steve-neville/) - [Drea Lake](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/drea-lake/) - [Dreaming Peacefully](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/dreaming-peacefully/) - [Chris Brown](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/chris-brown/) - [Ron Hawkins](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ron-hawkins/) - [Lowest Of The Low](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/lowest-of-the-low/) - [Kate Fenner](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/kate-fenner/) - [tour announcement](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tour-announcement/) - [City Folk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/city-folk/) - [Lily Monaghan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/lily-monaghan/) - [Sleeping Alone](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sleeping-alone/) - [Sammy Duke](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sammy-duke/) - [Blaze Project](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/blaze-project/) - [Rusty Creek](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/rusty-creek/) - [Timber Masterson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/timber-masterson/) - [André Bisson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/andre-bisson/) - [Taylor Simpson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/taylor-simpson/) - [JJ Voss](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jj-voss/) - [A Letter To Dad](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/a-letter-to-dad/) - [Cassettes In Common](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/cassettes-in-common/) - [Robinson Kirb](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/robinson-kirb/) - [book](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/book/) - [Veranda](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/veranda/) - [#london](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/london/) - [#belleville](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/belleville/) - [#dryden](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/dryden/) - [#vernon](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/vernon/) - [#st.catherines](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/st-catherines/) - [#huntsville](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/huntsville/) - [#northbay](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/northbay/) - [#peterbourough](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/peterbourough/) - [Halloween](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/halloween/) - [ghost stories](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ghost-stories/) - [Pictou County](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/pictou-county/) - [Basset](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/basset/) - [Jessica Rhaye and The Ramshackle](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jessica-rhaye-and-the-ramshackle/) - [Robert Connely Farr](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/robert-connely-farr/) - [A Sea of Gold and Burgundy](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/a-sea-of-gold-and-burgundy/) - [Washington](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/washington/) - [climate](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/climate/) - [Atlantic](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/atlantic/) - [Thunder Bay](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/thunder-bay/) - [Brandon](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/brandon/) - [Prince Albert](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/prince-albert/) - [St. Albert](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/st-albert/) - [Camrose](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/camrose/) - [Fort Saskachewan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/fort-saskachewan/) - [Medicine Hat](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/medicine-hat/) - [Nelson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/nelson/) - [Mud Bay](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/mud-bay/) - [video](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/video/) - [Chance Brown](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/chance-brown/) - [Dan Moxon](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/dan-moxon/) - [Bend Sinister](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bend-sinister/) - [Collin Clowes](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/collin-clowes/) - [A Short Walk To Pluto](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/a-short-walk-to-pluto/) - [Andrea England](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/andrea-england/) - [Susan Aglukark](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/susan-aglukark/) - [Hannah Shira Naiman](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/hannah-shira-naiman/) - [contemporary](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/contemporary/) - [BC](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bc/) - [Allison Brown](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/allison-brown/) - [Art Bergmann](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/art-bergmann/) - [punk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/punk/) - [Onion Honey](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/onion-honey/) - [Charity](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/charity/) - [top artists](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/top-artists/) - [Gregory Childs And Heart Lung](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/gregory-childs-and-heart-lung/) - [Inuk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/inuk/) - [Looee](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/looee/) - [Christine Graves](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/christine-graves/) - [Jim Bryson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jim-bryson/) - [Chris McKhool](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/chris-mckhool/) - [Sharron Katz](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sharron-katz/) - [Payphones](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/payphones/) - [Rioting Heart](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/rioting-heart/) - [Six Nations](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/six-nations/) - [acoustic folk](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/acoustic-folk/) - [JD Edwards](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jd-edwards/) - [Jay Aymar](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jay-aymar/) - [Thank You](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/thank-you/) - [Canadian Red Cross](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/canadian-red-cross/) - [COVID](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/covid/) - [traditional music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/traditional-music/) - [quebec trad](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/quebec-trad/) - [quetrad](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/quetrad/) - [le vent du nord](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/le-vent-du-nord/) - [francophone music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/francophone-music/) - [Anne Lindsay](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/anne-lindsay/) - [Brian Gladstone](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/brian-gladstone/) - [Brian Morgan](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/brian-morgan/) - [Camie](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/camie/) - [D'Arcy Wickham](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/darcy-wickham/) - [Garnetta Cromwell & DaGroovmasters](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/garnetta-cromwell-dagroovmasters/) - [Glen Hornblast](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/glen-hornblast/) - [Graham Lindsey](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/graham-lindsey/) - [Harpin' Norm Lucien](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/harpin-norm-lucien/) - [Kevin Breit](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/kevin-breit/) - [Noah Zacharin](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/noah-zacharin/) - [Robert Priest](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/robert-priest/) - [The Swingin' Blackjacks](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-swingin-blackjacks/) - [Tia McGraff](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tia-mcgraff/) - [Evelynne Ross](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/evelynne-ross/) - [Jabbour](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jabbour/) - [Lynn Miles](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/lynn-miles/) - [Silka Weil](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/silka-weil/) - [Alicia Toner](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/alicia-toner/) - [Latin](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/latin/) - [owen sound](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/owen-sound/) - [heartwood concert hall](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/heartwood-concert-hall/) - [Andrina Turenne](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/andrina-turenne/) - [Bold As Logs](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/bold-as-logs/) - [Tour du monde](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/tour-du-monde/) - [Chic Gamine](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/chic-gamine/) - [Ian Arden](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ian-arden/) - [crossover](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/crossover/) - [Jerome Forde](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/jerome-forde/) - [Elliott Smith](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/elliott-smith/) - [Townes Van Zandt](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/townes-van-zandt/) - [Marigold](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/marigold/) - [Ray Lemelin](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/ray-lemelin/) - [children's music](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/childrens-music/) - [Marc Meriläinen](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/marc-merilainen/) - [Midnight Miles](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/midnight-miles/) - [Lisa Humber](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/lisa-humber/) - [The Maple Blues Band](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-maple-blues-band/) - [Sherri Harding](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/sherri-harding/) - [David Deacon](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/david-deacon/) - [Aaron Wylder](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/aaron-wylder/) - [Aruna & the Sirens](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/aruna-the-sirens/) - [politics](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/politics/) - [fandom](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/fandom/) - [In The Sundust](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/in-the-sundust/) - [What Is A Broken Heart For](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/what-is-a-broken-heart-for/) - [The Prairie Dogz](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/the-prairie-dogz/) - [A Traveler's Lament](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/a-travelers-lament/) - [Rebel Child](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/rebel-child/) - [Song of the Sparrow](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/song-of-the-sparrow/) - [Doug MacNaughton](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/doug-macnaughton/) - [James Gray](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/james-gray/) - [Quebec](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/quebec/) - [John Hewitt](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/john-hewitt/) - [Broken Rebels](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/broken-rebels/) - [Oklahoma](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/oklahoma/) - [David James Allen](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/david-james-allen/) - [By The Summertime](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/by-the-summertime/) - [Blush And Hide](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/blush-and-hide/) - [Another Day Older](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/another-day-older/) - [Prince Edward County](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/prince-edward-county/) - [Matt Epp](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/matt-epp/) - [Christopher Jackson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/christopher-jackson/) - [steve dawson](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/steve-dawson/) - [East Coast Music Awards](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/east-coast-music-awards/) - [Oro-Medonte](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/tag/oro-medonte/) ## Event Location - [The Arden Theatre](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/event-location/the-arden-theatre/) - [St. Albert Community Hall](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/event-location/st-albert-community-hall/) - [Acoustic Harvest](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/event-location/acoustic-harvest/) ## Event Organizer - [Acoustic Harvest](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/event-organizer/acoustic-harvest/) - [The Arden Theatre](https://www.rootsmusic.ca/event-organizer/the-arden-theatre/)