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.

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

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 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

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