Songwriters From Here And Away

From Coast to Coast: A Canadian Songwriters Showcase

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away, we shine the spotlight entirely on Canadian songwriters, celebrating the depth, diversity, and emotional honesty that defines our music from coast to coast.

From the radiant pop-folk warmth of Steeple and the intimate reflections of Molly Ferdinand, to the roots-driven storytelling of Cheryl Gaudet, Mark Bezanson, and Tiller’s Folly, this episode is a reminder of just how rich our homegrown songwriting tradition remains. You’ll also hear compelling modern voices from Landon Morris, Sarah Segal-Lazar, Tapes In Motion, and Charlie A’Court, each bringing their own perspective, craft, and lived experience into the songs.

These are songs about belief, resilience, aging, love, and staying human in a changing world — written and performed by artists who know how to make stories linger. Tune in and rediscover why Canadian songwriters continue to matter.

• Steeple – “In the Sun”
  Bright, uplifting pop-folk with a melodic lift that feels both hopeful and grounded.

• Molly Ferdinand – “Ten Foot Two”
  Intimate, thoughtful songwriting delivered with warmth and emotional clarity.

• Cheryl Gaudet (with Rose Vaughn) – “Grandfather’s Hands”
  A tender, intergenerational reflection filled with grace and deep familial resonance.

• Mark Bezanson – “Mess Around”
  Roots-infused songwriting with grit, groove, and lived-in storytelling.

• Tiller’s Folly – “A Simply Extraordinary Life”
  Veteran Canadian folk storytelling that honours ordinary lives with poetic care.

• Tapes In Motion – “Nobody”
  A modern indie track blending atmosphere and introspection with subtle power.

• Landon Morris – “Slip Away”
  Soulful vocals and melodic songwriting that balance vulnerability and strength.

• Sarah Segal-Lazar – “Anything But Age”
  A thoughtful, articulate song challenging assumptions with intelligence and heart.

• Charlie A’Court – “Play Me Something Good”
  Effortless soul-rooted groove from one of Canada’s most compelling performers.

• Cheryl Gaudet – “All I Believe”
  A reflective, emotionally grounded song shaped by experience and honesty.

• Landon Morris – “Tightwire”
  Tension and release woven into a finely crafted modern roots song.

• Mark Bezanson – “Ruin”
  Darker lyrical terrain explored with confidence and strong melodic instincts.

• Mark Bezanson – “For Crying Out Loud”
  A sharp, expressive closer blending passion, reflection, and seasoned songwriting.

More episodes at www.SFHAA.ca

 

#CanadianMusic #SongwritersFromHereAndAway
#CanCon #FolkRoots #IndieCanada #CanadianSongwriters

Across the Tracks: Graham Nicholas Live + a Dave Gunning Bonus

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away, we revisit a memorable live interview with Ontario songwriter Graham Nicholas, recorded over the railroad tracks at Alderney Landing in Nova Scotia. Graham’s storytelling, wit, and deeply observant lyrics shine in conversation and performance, painting portraits of life’s long roads and human heartaches with equal grace.

To round out the hour, we’ve added a track from Dave Gunning — one of Canada’s most beloved folk voices — whose work reflects decades of craftsmanship, community connection, and storytelling rooted in everyday heroes and hard truths. Tune in for songs and stories that cross borders, generations, and emotional terrain — from live spontaneity to seasoned reflection.

---

🎶 Featured Artists & Links

Graham Nicholas

A Toronto-area folk/roots songwriter with a rich gift for character-driven narratives and evocative lyricism. His albums, including Black Creek, showcase empathetic storytelling and a voice praised for its warmth and honesty.
🔗 Official Website: https://grahamnicholas.ca/

---

Dave Gunning

Legendary Nova Scotia folk singer-songwriter, award winner, and storyteller whose warm stage presence and razor-sharp insight have made him a Canadian mainstay. Over his long career he’s earned multiple East Coast Music Awards, Canadian Folk Music Awards, a Juno nomination, and widespread acclaim for songs that pay tribute to community, resilience, and the human heart.
🔗 Official Website: https://www.davegunning.com/

more episodes, concert and support for songwriters @ www.SFHAA.ca

#SongwritersFromHereAndAway #GrahamNicholas #DaveGunning #LiveMusic #CanadianMusic #FolkMusic #IndieSongwriters #Podcast

Canadian Songs, Big Feelings & Brave Voices - Tracks from Sea To Sea

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away, we shine a light on a wide-ranging collection of compelling Canadian songwriting — from intimate acoustic reflections to bold statements. Songs that ask questions, tell hard truths, and celebrate connection, identity, and place.

Featuring emerging voices alongside seasoned artists, this episode highlights the depth and diversity of Canada’s songwriting community. Love, loss, resilience, social conscience, and the moments that shape us — all delivered with honesty and craft.

If you’re a songwriter, a music lover, or someone who simply enjoys discovering great new Canadian music, this episode offers plenty to lean into. Turn it up, listen closely, and discover a few new favourites along the way.

---

🎶 Featured Artists & Songs

Gerry Wall – “Dumb Enough” – A seasoned roots-rock voice with songs grounded in grit and heart. https://gerrywall.bandcamp.com

Headlong Hearts – “Canada” – A warm indie-folk trio bringing layered harmonies and open-sky songwriting. https://headlonghearts.com

Hearts of Kin – “Natural” – Folk harmonies and tender lyricism woven into reflective soundscapes. https://www.heartsofkin.com

JJ Miller – “The Life of Augustine” – Soulful storytelling from a Canadian folk songwriter navigating life and place. https://www.jjmiller.ca

Jade Elephant – “Zombie” – An eclectic indie voice infusing poetic edge into every phrase. https://jadeelephantmusic.com

Jed and the Valentine – “Pitchin’ Stones” – Halifax-rooted melodic songwriting with lyrical depth and emotional resonance. https://jedandthevalentine.com

John Hewitt – “Stand Up and Be Counted” – A thoughtful voice delivering songs of conviction and character. https://www.johnhewittmusic.com 

MUSHKAT – “Wasted On The Young” – Edgy, clever songwriting with gritty flair from a seasoned local favourite.
🔗 https://www.instagram.com/MushkatCentral 

Veronica Fusaro – “Jealousy” – Emotional clarity and expressive vocals anchor this intimate, honest song.
🔗 https://veronicafusaro.com

11th & Duke – “Melissa” – Rock-soul energy and big hooks shine from this energetic NS band.
🔗 https://www.facebook.com/11thandduke 

Meadowsweet – “Emerald Beach” – Dreamy indie-folk textures and evocative imagery define this track. https://meadowsweetmusic.ca 

Ryan Wayne – “Lion in the Wall” – Melodic roots songwriting with rich, lyrical storytelling. https://ryanwayne.bandcamp.com/ 

Stonehocker – “Is This the End?” – A reflective, atmospheric indie composition that lingers long after the track ends.
🔗 https://linktr.ee/seestonehocker

Songwriters From Here And Away is @ www.SFHAA.ca

Craft, Groove & Grit: The Songs of Rob Lutes and a Brief Walk Through History

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away, I’m joined by Rob Lutes, www.RobLutes.com award-winning songwriter, performer, and educator whose work bridges folk, blues, and roots music with exceptional depth and authenticity. Based in Ontario, Rob is widely respected not only for his finely crafted songs but for the way he delivers them — with groove, restraint, and emotional clarity.

A recipient of multiple Awards, including:

Canadian Folk Music Awards (CFMAs)

• Winner — Contemporary Singer of the Year (Solo) — Walk in the Dark (2018)

• Winner — Contemporary Singer of the Year (Come Around / project work) (2022)

• Multiple CFMA nominations — including Album, Contemporary Singer, English Songwriter, Producer of the Year (with Come Around)

Maple Blues Awards

• Multiple Maple nominations over the years in categories such as Acoustic Act and Male Vocalist of the Year

• Winner — Kerrville New Folk Songwriting Competition (prestigious U.S. folk songwriter award)

• Runner-up — Toronto Blues Society Cobalt Prize

Rob’s songs have been recorded by artists around the world and featured in film and television. Beyond the stage, he is a sought-after songwriting educator and mentor, known for helping writers find their own voice while honouring the craft. In this conversation, we explore songwriting process, storytelling, and the long game of making meaningful music — with insight from someone who has truly lived it.
Tracks on This www.SFHAA.ca show include:

• Things We Didn’t Choose
• That Bird Has My Wings
• Mutineer (Warren Zevon)
• Walk In The Dark
• We Were In Love
• I’ll See You In My Dreams
• Work Of Art
• Shediac Bridge

Unplugged & Unforgettable: Cruikshanks Open Mic Live From The Funeral Home

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away we take you back to one of Halifax’s most unique and welcoming musical gatherings — the Cruikshanks Funeral Home Open Mic, held on the last Wednesday of each month in the chapel at Cruikshanks Funeral Home in downtown Halifax. It’s a fully accessible, all-ages show where songwriters, storytellers, and music lovers share new material, heartfelt originals, and memorable performances in an atmosphere that combines connection, community, and creativity. Hosted by Noah Tye, this live recording brings together a remarkable group of voices from Nova Scotia’s vibrant music scene and beyond. 

Noah Tye - New Scotland

An emerging roots/folk/blues artist from Halifax, Noah is the creative force behind the Cruikshanks Open Mic and a passionate performer on multiple instruments. His original songwriting and warm delivery have been honed through years of local performance and festival appearances. @noah.tye

Michael Butz - Sorry Won’t Cut It Anymore
A Halifax singer-songwriter and frequent open-mic contributor, Michael brings thoughtful lyrics and heart-felt performance to every stage. He also plays in local live music venues around Halifax 

Bruce Murray - Fair Winds & Following Seas
A rich acoustic sensibility and love for stories in song; Bruce’s performance evokes both landscape and journey. (Live performer on Halifax open mic scene. @zedcaster

Alex Connoly - An open mic favourite known for expressive originals and engaging performance style

Adria Jackson - Halifax Shore
A singer-songwriter with intimate, reflective lyrics and a voice that paints pictures of place and memory — perfect for the open mic’s close-knit crowd. @adria.jackson.33

Claire & Seamus - I’ll Find A Place For You Here
A duo whose harmonies and heartfelt lyrics strike straight to the heart, capturing friendship, hope, and shared moments in every note.

Hannah Marcienne - See The Light
A rising artist whose powerful vocal presence and thoughtful songwriting make her a standout in the open mic lineup. @hannah.sarrouy

Owen Darrah - Fair
An expressive performer whose ease on stage and vulnerability in songwriting create genuine musical connection. @o.darrah

Wild Blue Rose - When The Winter Comes
A name that evokes lyrical imagery and seasonal texture — Wild Blue Rose brings atmospheric tone and poetic songcraft to the open mic stage. @WildBlueRoseMusic

Sandy Greenberg - Let Me Come Into Your Kitchen
With roots in classic folk traditions, Sandy’s storytelling and warm voice feel like a welcoming hearthside tale. @razzmatazzforkids

Dusty Keleher - East To Ireland
A performer with deep musical roots, Dusty’s tune evokes travel, heritage, and lyrical wanderlust — all delivered with heart. Halifax’s own Ghost Walk bard. @dusty.keleher

Bill Travis aka ‘Mushkat’ - Wasted On The Young
A familiar name to Halifax open mic audiences, Mushkat blends wit, grit, and lyrical craft into every performance.  @MushkatCentral

🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts!

#SongwritersFromHereAndAway #HalifaxMusic #OpenMic #LiveMusic #NovaScotiaMusic #FolkAndRoots  #SFHAA #CommunityMusic #CruikshanksUnplugged

True North Holidays: A Festive Canadian Playlist

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away we unwrap a joyful collection of seasonal songs from Canadian artists and beyond — a soundtrack for cozy nights, snowy walks, candlelight celebrations, and all the warm emotions that come with the holidays. From intimate reflections of returning home to spirited celebrations of cultural traditions, this episode blends classic festive moods with contemporary songwriting flair. Gather around the fire, grab your favourite mug, and enjoy Winter Cheer & New Traditions — a holiday musical journey that’s both heartfelt and uplifting.

---

🎶 Tracklist + Links

G4briel4 – “Christmas Is Near”

A rising young voice with international roots, G4briel4 delivers a bright seasonal pop tune that captures the excitement and warmth of the approaching holidays — like a musical snow globe full of hope and cheer.
🔗 Listen/Artist: https://www.tiktok.com/@g4briel4_official

---

Brother Bicker Band – “Rocky Mountain Christmas”

Calgary’s roots rock collective brings a bittersweet holiday story to life, exploring memories of home and the warmth of connection as winter settles in the mountains. Their “maple whiskey rock n roll” style gives this seasonal song a soulful, timeless feel.
🔗 Website: https://brotherbicker.com

---

Jeffrey Straker – “Come Walkin’ In The Snow With Me”

Prairie singer-songwriter Jeffrey Straker blends heartfelt lyricism with classic holiday imagery, inviting listeners into a serene snowy stroll filled with warmth, companionship, and seasonal magic.
🔗 Artist: https://jeffreystraker.com

---

Greg Carroll – “Lullaby For Christmas”

Nova Scotia songwriter Greg Carroll offers a gentle, lullaby-like holiday tune — perfect for quiet evenings with family, reflective moments, and candlelit contemplation.
🔗 Artist: https://gregcarroll.ca

---

Haley K Turner – “Intangible Things (A Hanukkah Song)”

With a thoughtful blend of contemporary songwriting and cultural celebration, Haley K Turner’s song honors Hanukkah’s themes of light, memory, and what truly matters beyond the material.
🔗 Artist: https://haleykturner.com

---

Sultans of String – “Sing for Kwanzaa” (feat. Richard Bona & Waleed Abdulhamid)

World-infused holiday rhythms meet powerful cultural expression in this vibrant Kwanzaa celebration, featuring stunning performances by jazz great Richard Bona and percussionist Waleed Abdulhamid.
🔗 Website: https://sultansofstring.com

---

Rum Ragged – “Christmas In The Harbour”

Newfoundland’s Rum Ragged delivers a beautifully rugged maritime Christmas song, blending salt-air storytelling and sea-seasoned harmonies that feel like a festive gathering by the docks.
🔗 Artist: https://rumragged.bandcamp.com

---

Campbell+Green – “Christmas In Paris”

Nova Scotia folk-pop duo Campbell+Green bring romantic holiday imagery to life with this dreamy, Paris-infused seasonal tune — like strolling through twinkling lights on a winter’s night.
🔗 Website: https://campbellandgreen.bandcamp.com

---

Silver Wolf Band – “Halloween Clothes”

While not a traditional Christmas song, this clever seasonal standout brings another side of the holidays (and costume-adventure nostalgia) to your festive playlist.
🔗 Artist: https://www.silverwolfbandmusic.com

---

Ken Dirschl – “My Arms Around You”

Ken Dirschl’s heartfelt, love-centred song feels at home among holiday playlists, capturing that warm embrace of togetherness that makes the season meaningful.
🔗 Artist: https://www.kendirschl.com

---

Jill Barber – “That Time of Year” & “A Very Merry Christmas”

Jill Barber’s elegant vocals and rich melodic style make both of these holiday tunes feel like an invitation to slow down, savour the moment, and share seasonal joy with loved ones.
🔗 Website: https://jillbarber.com

---

Trena – “Christmas Bells”

A joyful ring of seasonal cheer, “Christmas Bells” captures the festive sparkle and celebration that make wintertime gatherings so memorable.
🔗 Artist: https://trenamusic.com

---

Campbell+Green – “Dear Santa” & “Perfect Gift”

Two more holiday gems from the Nova Scotia duo — playful and heartfelt reflections on wishes, wonder, and what we hope for most during the festive season.
🔗 Website: https://www.campbellandgreen.ca

#HolidayMusic #CanadianChristmas #SeasonalSongs #SongwritersFromHereAndAway
#G4briel4 #BrotherBickerBand #JeffreyStraker #CampbellAndGreen #JillBarber
#SultansOfString #WinterPlaylist #ChristmasSongs #Hanukkah #Kwanzaa 

Songcircle Recorded Live: Hit Writer Steven McClintock (TX) & Nova Scotia's Kristen Martell (plus Special Guests)

This week’s episode captures a live songcircle-style concert recorded in 2024, finally making its way online — and it’s well worth the wait. Two deeply respected songwriters from very different places share the stage, stories, and songs, with a couple of beautiful co-writing cameos along the way.

Steven McClintock (Texas)

Steven McClintock is a master storyteller whose songs feel both timeless and lived-in. Rooted in Texas but shaped by years of collaboration across North America, Steven writes with emotional clarity, sharp imagery, and a quiet confidence that pulls listeners in rather than pushing too hard. His performances balance humor and vulnerability, and in a songcircle setting his gift for narrative really shines. On this night, Steven shares songs that reflect his deep love of craft, conversation, and connection — the kind of writing that unfolds naturally and leaves space for the listener. The addition of a co-writer on stage adds another layer of warmth and trust, reinforcing how collaboration fuels his creative life.🌐 https://www.stevenmcclintock.com

Special Guest for one song: David Muise (Nova Scotia) joins Steven for one song, bringing his own thoughtful songwriting sensibility and East Coast perspective into the mix. Their collaboration highlights the magic that happens when writers meet in the middle of a song. 🌐 https://www.davidmuise.ca

---------------

Kristen Martell (Nova Scotia)

Kristen Martell is one of Nova Scotia’s most compelling songwriters — honest, poetic, and unafraid to sit with emotional truth. Her songs often feel intimate and expansive at the same time, delivered with a voice that carries both strength and tenderness. In this live setting, Kristen shares songs that reflect her growth as a writer and performer, inviting the audience into moments of reflection, resilience, and quiet revelation. Her collaboration on stage underscores her openness to shared storytelling and musical trust. 🌐 https://www.kristenmartell.com

Special Guest for one song: Darrel Cameron (Nova Scotia) joins Kristen for one song, adding depth and texture through co-writing partnership and shared musical history. Their performance is a reminder that some songs truly come alive when written — and sung — together. 🌐 https://www.darrellcameron.com

#SongwritersFromHereAndAway #LiveSongcircle #StevenMcClintock #KristenMartell
#CanadianSongwriters #TexasSongwriter #EastCoastMusic #SFHAA
#CoWriting #LiveConcert #FolkRoots #IndependentMusic #StorySongs

Back towards the Beginning: Keith Mullins, Angela Saini, Morgan Toney & Hans Grondel

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away, we’re taking a joyful step back to early 2023 — a moment when four exceptional artists shared their songs, stories, and sparks of creativity. All different, all powerful, and all deserving of a second spin.

From Nova Scotia’s rhythm-driven Keith Mullins to the radiant acoustic pop of Toronto’s Angela Saini; from the celebrated Mi’kmaq fiddler Morgan Toney to the Netherlands songwriter Hans Grondel — this reprise brings together heart, heritage, groove, and global flavour.

Whether you’re discovering these artists for the first time or revisiting the magic, this episode is full of energy, craft, and soul.

Keith Mullins (Canada)

A well-loved Nova Scotia songwriter, drummer, producer, and educator, Keith Mullins blends East Coast folk with world-rhythm influences. His recordings and workshops connect communities through music.
🔗 Website: https://www.keithmullins.ca
🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/keithmullinsmusic

Angela Saini (Canada)

A bright presence in Canadian folk-pop, Angela Saini is known for uplifting songwriting, warm vocals, and a message of resilience and hope. Her songs explore identity, empowerment, and the drive to keep moving forward.
🔗 Website: https://angelasaini.com
🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/angelasainimusic

Morgan Toney (Canada)

A breakthrough Mi’kmaq artist blending traditional fiddle tunes with contemporary songwriting, Morgan Toney has quickly become a celebrated voice on the East Coast. His music bridges cultural stories with modern folk in a powerful, joyful way.
🔗 Website: https://www.morgantoneymusic.com
🔗 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MorganToneyMusic

Hans Grondel (Europe / Netherlands)

A genre-bending songwriter rooted in folk, Americana, and European influences, Hans Grondel brings poetic storytelling and melodic craftsmanship to every track. His work often spans borders — geographically and musically.
🔗 Website: https://www.hansgrondel.com
🔗 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HansGrondel