Juno Award-winning recording artist Charlotte Diamond is celebrating her 30th year in children’s music by recording her 14th CD, Diamonds by the Sea, in Sechelt.
Recently impressed by hearing the production on Sechelt musician Ken McBride’s new CD, Tone, Charlotte became acquainted with the studio where it was recorded – SSR Studio, owned by Roy Code. After investigation, she decided it was an excellent place to produce her latest project, Diamonds by the Sea, featuring 16 original songs for children and families. Her son, Matt Diamond, now a full-time resident of Sechelt, is contributing as co-producer, guitarist and background vocals. Matt has become a popular performer on the Coast for both adults and families, most recently singing at the Sunshine Coast Children’s Festival in June. He has also co-written two of the songs.
As well as hosting her Hug Bug Band at her home for the weeks of recording, Charlotte involved local musicians: Ken McBride on guitar and flute, Chelsea Sleep on violin and members of the Choralations Children’s Choir, directed by Janice Brunson. “The children’s pristine voices add a special sparkle to the vocals,” Charlotte said. “Working with this talented group was a delight.”
Based in Richmond, Charlotte and her family have had a home in Sandy Hook since 1997 and many of her songs have been influenced by exploring the Sechelt Inlet.
New songs, like Ottie the Otter, The Moose on the Loose, Oh Deer, the Doe’s in the Marigolds, and Families of Crows, reflect her interest in nature and the preservation of coastal wildlife and environment. She also has a song for frustrated parents, YRU So Difficult?
Diamonds by the Sea is due to be released in the early fall.
Diamond’s music is available at Strait Music and the Sechelt Public Library and at www.charlottediamond.com
