Songwriters From Here And Away

Dali Van Gogh: Songs, Stories & a Second Spin

You may have noticed lately that we’ve been dipping into the archives here on Songwriters From Here and Away. Before anyone thinks we’ve become a nostalgia show… There are a few very good reasons. First, planning is underway for the 2026 Songwriters Retreat, which turns out to involve more emails, spreadsheets, and kitchen logistics than any reasonable human should face in one sitting.

Second, there’s a March 15th concert and livestream with Cheryl Gaudet coming up — which is something I’m very much looking forward to.

Third, I’m currently trying to learn 35 Motown songs for a band called Sounds of Motown. If you hear me quietly muttering “Chain Of Fools” in the grocery store aisle, that’s why.

and last but not least, ramping up songwriters shows and a songwriter thing with jim Henman, Jeannie Beks & Cailin Green. More rehearsals!

So while the calendar is a little full, it’s also a perfect excuse to revisit some wonderful performances from the Songwriters From Here and Away archives. 

This week’s replay features Dali Van Gogh — a memorable conversation and performance that’s remixed and worth a listen.
Website: https://dalivangogh.com 
Music: https://dalivangogh.bandcamp.com

https://SFHAA.ca 

#DaliVanGogh
#SongwritersFromHereAndAway
#CanadianSongwriters
#IndieMusic
#MusicPodcast
#LiveMusic

Small Room, Big Songs: Terra Spencer in Concert

This week’s show features Terra Spencer in concert.

Terra is a multi-award winning singer-songwriter who writes songs that feel lived-in — attentive to detail, careful with language, and rooted in real experience. In a live setting, that kind of writing breathes even more. There’s space in the room. Space in the phrasing. Space to listen.

Join us for a beautifully crafted performance from Terra Spencer.

https://www.terraspencer.ca

https://sfhaa.ca 

#TerraSpencer #SongwritersFromHereAndAway #NovaScotiaMusic #sfhaa
#CanadianSongwriter #LiveMusic #EastCoastMusic #musicNovaScotia @musicnovascotia

Ian Sherwood: Songs, Stories & Second Takes

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away, we revisit a concert and conversation with the ever-engaging Ian Sherwood — newly remixed and ready for another listen.

Recorded live, this episode captures Ian in his element: sharp songwriting, generous storytelling, and that unmistakable mix of musicianship and humour that makes his performances so compelling. In between songs, we talk about the craft and what keeps the creative engine running year after year.

Ian is one of those artists who brings both heart and discipline to the stage. Whether it’s an intimate lyric or a full-voice moment that lifts the room, he understands connection. If you missed it the first time — or if you’re ready to experience it again — settle in for a lively hour of music and conversation with Ian Sherwood.

www.sfhaa.ca

www.IanSherwood.com 

#IanSherwood #SongwritersFromHereAndAway

#CanadianMusic #LiveConcert #SongwriterInterview

#FolkRoots #MusicNovaScotia #NovaScotiaMusic

A House Concert & Conversation with Ruth Manning

This week we’re revisiting a remix of a very special house concert and in-depth conversation with the wonderful Ruth Manning. Recorded in an intimate living room setting, this performance captures what I love most about house concerts: the closeness, the quiet attention, the stories behind the songs, and the space where music can really breathe.

Ruth brings thoughtful songwriting, emotional honesty, and a beautiful sense of connection to her audience. In our conversation, we talk about craft, inspiration, and the lived experiences that shape the songs she writes. It’s relaxed, reflective, and filled with the kind of moments you only get when artists feel truly at home.

If you’ve never experienced a house concert, this is a perfect glimpse into why they matter. And if you have, you’ll recognize that special magic right away. Join me for this replay of an evening of songs and stories with Ruth Manning — right here on Songwriters From Here and Away.

#SongwritersFromHereAndAway #HouseConcert #SongwriterInterview #IndependentMusic #LiveMusic #CanadianSongwriters #MusicAndStories

Around the Globe & Back: Aaron English Live - Interview, live songs, tracks

Aaron English www.AaronEnglish.com is a Nashville-based singer-songwriter and pianist whose music reflects a long journey through places, people, and musical traditions. Born in Tennessee and now rooted in one of America’s most vibrant songwriting cities, Aaron has spent years touring the U.S., Europe and Africa, bringing a wide range of influences into his work. His songs blend elements of folk, rock, and world-music rhythms, and he often writes with both personal honesty and a broader sense of place. His catalogue includes multiple self-released albums and EPs, and his music has been featured in media ranging from network TV shows to international radio charts.

Aaron’s career includes notable moments such as having one of his songs referenced in an episode of the Fox drama Bones and scoring radio hits in the U.S. and Italy. Beyond performance, he also founded the International Youth Music Project in 2015, a charity that supports music programs for disadvantaged children in orphanages, refugee camps and HIV/AIDS community centers, especially in East Africa. His work combines musical craft with a commitment to community and global connection.

In addition to touring and recording, Aaron continues to collaborate with musicians around the world and share music through livestreams, maintaining a creative life rooted in curiosity and human connection. Bandcamp (music & releases): https://aaronenglish.bandcamp.com

www.sfhaa.ca  

👍 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/aaronenglishmusic 

🎧 SoundCloud (clips & streaming): https://soundcloud.com/aaron-english 

▶️ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/aaronenglishband 

 

#AaronEnglish #SongwritersFromHereAndAway #SFHAA

#NashvilleMusic #CanadianPodcast #MusicInterview

#FolkRock #SingerSongwriter #LiveMusic

True North Tunes: 15 Tracks Across the Canadian Songwriting Map

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away we’re celebrating a lineup of compelling Canadian artists, ranging from heartfelt reflections on life and home to electrifying storytelling, genre-bending soundscapes, and deeply personal narratives —  songwriters shaping the sound of Canada’s music scene. Discover voices you know and ones you’ll want to get to know — from roots and indie to soulful pop and imaginative indie-folk. Travel across styles, moods, and stories, all connected by great songwriting.

Jeff Vidov – “New York I’m Coming For You” — Up-and-coming Canadian songwriter whose melodic grit captures big-city aspiration and heart.

Rachel Kane – “Be Alright (Feat. Beatox & Adrienne Fainman)” — Collaborative indie pop blend with emotional texture and modern groove.

Gail and Karl – “A Thousand Thousand Blessings” — Folk-rock duo rooted in melody and harmony with a long history of community radio support.
https://www.kelownaartscouncil.ca/s-projects-side-by-side

Clara Cloud – “Lay Me Down (Again)” — Dreamy indie-folk voice with evocative lyrical work and an intimate delivery.

Daniel Lew – “Out Of Sight, Out of Mind” — Thoughtful songwriter with reflective lyrics and a sound anchored in emotion.

Peach Panic – “Conversations” — Energetic indie track with a rhythmic edge and clean, contemporary feel.

Malia Rogers – “Vulnerable” — Intimate singer-songwriter whose voice and words explore openness and strength.

Thomas Messenger – “Elbows Up” — Playful, dynamic track grounded in sharp writing and compelling performance.

Steph Cameron – “Summer Song” — Seasonally warm and inviting tune from a seasoned storyteller.

Aaron MacDonald – “What’s The Point” — Rooted in lyrical nuance and thoughtful reflection, this song digs into meaning and feeling.

Margaret Champion – “A Safe Place To Land (with Cory Tetford)” — Soulful collaboration with heart, harmony, and depth.

Onion Honey – “Spite, Rebranded” — High-spirited folk quartet blending tradition with modern flair and tight harmonies.

Thomas Marshall – “Change The Key” — Reflective indie songwriter crafting songs that stay with you long after listening.

Jill Peacock – “All I See Is Blue” — Cool, contemplative songwriting wrapped in evocative atmosphere.

Oh Pray Tell – “Poor Black Women Blues” — Powerful blues-inspired track that confronts social themes with voice and grit.

MORE Songwriters podcasts at www.SFHAA.ca 

#CanadianMusic #SongwritersFromHereAndAway #IndieCanada #NewMusicCanada #FolkRoots #MusicDiscovery #SupportLocalArtists

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.

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🎶 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/

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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