No one will disagree that Newfoundland has a storied history of stunning songwriters, poets, and players. Here are two artists that are part of that glorious musical tradition.

SHERMAN DOWNEY: His unique brand of radio-friendly and folky foot stompers has not only solidified him as one of Newfoundland & Labrador’s most treasured artists, but as a nationally revered and much sought after songwriter. His songs have won over listeners from his homeland to the mainland and beyond – all the while collecting a multitude of impressive accolades. Sherman’s debut album “Honey For Bees” received wide critical acclaim, earning him ‘MusicNL’s Male Artist of the Year’ and garnering international attention. His second release “The Sun In Your Eyes” was awarded ‘MusicNL’s Pop/Rock Recording of the Year’, ‘SOCAN Songwriter of the Year’ distinction, and a prestigious ECMA nomination for ‘Group Recording of the Year’ alongside his band The Ambiguous Case. The album’s first single “Thick as Thieves” went on to win Sherman the CBC Searchlight Prize as ‘Canada’s Best New Artist’. His latest release “New Beautiful” (2020) offers a sincere storied glimpse of wandering far from home while longing to return.

PHIL CHURCHILL: is one of the members of The Once – a folk trio based in St. John’s. The group features Geraldine Hollett on lead vocals and vocalist-instrumentalists, Phil Churchill and Andrew Dale playing a variety of instruments. The group has 6 CDs out with two JUNO nominations, and awards from the ECMAS and CFMA. The group performs a mix of original and traditional material and is noted for their three part harmonies, which are sometimes performed a cappella.
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