Songwriters From Here And Away

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

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.

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🎶 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