Songwriters From Here And Away

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

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

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

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 — pl

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

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away, we spotlight a vibrant mix of Canadian singer-songwriters... From dreamy folk to soulful grooves, each track tells a story — and together they paint a panorama of today’s songwriting spirit. 🌐 Artists & Links Lily Monaghan – Willing to Wait — https://linktr.ee/lilymonaghan McKINDRED – Washes Over Me — http://www.mckindred.com Thea Koper – The Outlaw — https://www.instagram.com/thea_koper Ian North – Antarctica — https://www.iannorthmusic.com Joe H Henry – Real Things — https://joehhenry.com/ Naomi Skye – old habits — https://www.instagram.com/theofficialnaomiskye The Gertrudes – City Noise — https://thegertrudes.com Write On! The Songwriting Experience – Harmony —https://www.writeon-songs.com Noah Derksen – I Try —https://noahderksen.com Katie Mal – Stop Crying Your Heart Out — https://katiemalofficial.com Joe and the Sun – Used Like Fabric — https://soundcloud.com/joe-and-the-sun The Sun Harmonic – Homesick — https://www.thesunharmonic.com/ Tristan Armstrong – Queen of Diamonds —https://tristanarmstrongmusic.bandcamp.com/ Mushkat – Look Upon The Ivy —https://www.facebook.com/MushkatCentral Whether you're cruising, relaxing, or reflecting, this episode is a celebration of Canadian creativity — and it’s all here, ready for your ears.www.sfhaa.ca

This week on Songwriters From Here and Away, we’re revisiting one of our most heartfelt and engaging Songwriters Circles — featuring Steven McClintock, Kim Dunn, and Mel Farrimond. Three artists with distinct voices, each bringing their own world of melody and meaning to the stage. From California pop craftsmanship to soulful East Coast piano and the thoughtful lyricism of Nova Scotia’s indie-folk scene — this circle is all about connection, creativity, and conversation through song. Tune in for laughter, stories behind the lyrics, and a musical chemistry that only happens when songwriters truly listen to each other. 🎶 Artist Profiles Steven McClintock With a career spanning decades, Steven McClintock has worn many musical hats — singer, songwriter, producer, and publisher. Based in California, Steven’s songs have appeared on major film soundtracks and been recorded by artists from Robin Zander (Cheap Trick) to Juice Newton. His writing combines strong melody with emotional insight, reflecting the craft of a seasoned storyteller. Beyond pop and country, his acoustic performances reveal a personal side — stripped down, sincere, and timeless. Whether behind the mic or mentoring younger writers, McClintock’s passion for the art of song remains unmistakable. Kim Dunn From Cape Breton to concert halls across Canada, Kim Dunn has long been a cornerstone of East Coast music. A pianist, singer, and producer, Kim’s playing has graced stages with Matt Minglewood, Bruce Guthro, and Rita MacNeil, and his solo work shines with honesty and grace. His voice carries warmth; his lyrics balance heart and craft. Dunn’s music often feels like a conversation between soul and piano — both reflective and uplifting. With multiple award nominations and deep respect from his peers, Kim continues to be one of Atlantic Canada’s most quietly brilliant musical forces. Mel Farrimond Mel Farrimond is a Halifax-based singer-songwriter whose songs explore identity, love, and belonging with a poetic honesty that resonates deeply. Blending indie-folk textures with thoughtful lyrics, Mel’s performances are as intimate as they are powerful — often weaving personal experience with universal emotion. A strong voice in Nova Scotia’s LGBTQ+ creative community, Mel brings openness and courage to their songwriting, encouraging audiences to feel seen and connected. Whether performing solo or in collaboration, Mel’s music celebrates authenticity and the beauty in being fully oneself.