"Legend"" is not a title John McDermott would readily embrace, but his accomplishments have become legendary in recording industry lore.
Part of his legend has always been his remarkable work ethic, releasing at least an album a year, and averaging more than 100 performances a year over the last decade (263 in 1997 alone). So when McDermott announced he was taking a break from solo touring through 2005/06, some might have found it unexpected, but no one would call the break undeserved. He has worked tirelessly since he burst onto the scene with the million-selling Danny Boy Collection in 1993, and he would like to take this opportunity to pursue business and philanthropic pursuits, as well as quality time with his family, all things he has had to put off while touring over the last decade.
But now McDermott and his band are back on tour and will pay a visit to the Sunshine Coast.
The concert is set for Thursday, March 29, at the Raven's Cry Theatre in Sechelt. Doors at 7 with the concert at 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $42.50 available at Talewind Books in Sechelt and Coast Books in Gibsons.
The ninth of 12 children from a traditional Glasgow Irish family who emigrated from Scotland to Canada in the 1960s, McDermott's musical roots are equal parts Scottish and Irish. His songs showcase his innate understanding and facility with traditional folk melodies as well as more contemporary stylings.
To the generation that remembers the wars, his music conjures up a vivid emotional landscape, evocative of love, loss and history. For the rest, his simple and richly textured arrangements allow him to weave narratives - folk tales that conjure up an exact moment and place.
His first album, Danny Boy, was originally recorded as a very private and personal 50th anniversary tribute for his parents. Its quality could not be ignored and it eventually found its way into the hands of EMI Music Canada. Danny Boy subsequently garnered strong sales for a debut release in the U.S. and Canada; it even reached number one on New Zealand's album charts, and was certified double platinum in that country. This success, in addition to a fast-growing North American fan base, won through a tireless touring schedule, led to his participation in the PBS phenomenon The Irish Tenors. His presence helped generate a US gold record, three US tours and a high-profile media schedule including appearances on Good Morning America and The Today Show.
The outcome of that fateful performance has catapulted him into a musical career that, not even 10 years later, includes nine full-length albums, three Canadian platinum records, five Juno nominations, and a solid international touring schedule.
