Songs for the Ages

Before they were committed to memory and passed down and around through the ages, the traditional songs of today were once brand new. Sometimes it’s hard to imagine a world without the words and melodies we now know so well. Here are three contemporary songs sure to stand the test of time.

The Early Days (Old Man Luedecke)

Old Man Luedecke is one of Canada’s best-loved and most intriguing roots singer-songwriters. On his third visit to Celtic Colours in 2015, the two-time Juno Award-winner performed “The Early Days” from his sixth album Domestic Eccentric during Duelling Banjos at the Wagmatcook Culture and Heritage Centre (10/10/15). With a little story and a song, Old Man Luedecke reveals his storyteller’s heart through this playful, soul-warming instant classic.

Featuring: Old Man Luedecke

We Remember You Well (Buddy MacDonald)

Scotland’s Archie Fisher is a songwriter’s songwriter whose music has found its way into the repertoire of artists from Makem & Clancy to Stan Rogers. Cyril MacPhee’s unique blend of folk, country, and Celtic music was influenced by the folk songs and fiddle tunes he grew up with on Cape Breton. Here they put their considerable talents together on a Buddy MacDonald masterpiece recorded during Dangerous Duos at Strathspey Performing Arts Centre in Mabou (10/12/16).

Featuring: Cyril MacPhee and Archie Fisher

 I Built a Boat (Laura Smith) 

During the first set of Louisbourg Crossroads at the Louisbourg Playhouse (10/15/14), the capacity crowd was treated to this performance of “I Built a Boat” by beloved singer and songwriter Laura Smith from her 2013 album Everything is Moving. Accompanied on guitar by Tony McManus, this beautiful song and Laura’s rich, soulful vocals are wonderfully complemented by Tony’s sensitive playing.

Featuring: Laura Smith with Tony McManus