About the Island / Locals Know Blog / Events & Festivals

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

About the Author

Celtic Colours International Festival

For nine days each October, Cape Breton Island comes alive with music and dance as the Celtic Colours International Festival celebrates the Island’s rich cultural legacy.

Related posts...

Winter Guide for Instagrammers!

Don't put that camera away just because it's cold! Winter on Cape Breton Island is an Instagrammer's wonderland.

1 Minute Read

Hidden Gems – Glamping Getaway in Indian Brook

Brittany is a local influencer who was born and raised in Cape Breton. Brittany’s biggest passion is creating unique spaces and experiences for people through design and wishes for continued growth here in Cape Breton.@brittanymacleod

2 Minute Read

Warm Up to Winter: Fireplace Edition

Brr! It sure is cold out there, warm up with our Fireplace Edition and learn where all the hottest fireplaces are across the island.

3 Minute Read

Unlock the Island’s Best-Kept Secrets

Get seasonal itineraries, local tips and member-only offers, straight from Cape Breton insiders to your inbox once a month.

No spam, just wanderlust fuel. Free departure anytime.

Subscribe Now