I write a lot of articles about Canadian artists, and also about artists from many countries around the world for The Sound Café. Mainly these artists are established and have large followings in their home country and also internationally. With The Sound Café HQ being based in Ontario, Canada, I get sent many e-mails from performers that I am not that familiar with from across this vast country, in an array of genres, and I wanted space to shine a light on some of these very talented artists.
To define 'emerging' can be a little tricky, some singer-songwriters, bands, musicians can spend a few years playing locally before they are recognized regionally, and may take a number of years of hard work and touring to be acknowledged nationally, so, to clarify this column, I am going to feature artists who I think are beginning to 'emerge', or already have 'emerged ' from their local or regional scenes.
I decided to create this column exclusively for The Sound Café where I'll showcase 'emerging' talent from across Canada. I hope you enjoy the features and come back and visit again.
In the heart of Canada’s rugged East Coast, where the roaring Atlantic meets the gentle whispers of Cape Breton’s hills, the spirit of music flourishes. Here, we find Rose Morrison, a folk singer-songwriter and fiddler whose delicate voice and fierce artistry resonate like the tides of the sea. After spending more than a decade away from her cherished homeland, Rose has embarked on a transformative journey, reestablishing her roots and channeling her experiences into her latest work, The River She Knows.
Rose’s musical evolution is deeply intertwined with her connection to the land. Her time away from Cape Breton has not diminished her love for it; instead, it has deepened her understanding of how the landscape and its history shape her music. “The River She Knows” is a testament to this connection, inspired by a heartfelt conversation with a genuine friend. This friend encouraged Rose to slow down, to walk along the riverbanks, and to immerse herself in the beauty of her surroundings. For Rose, the river symbolizes a profound source of wisdom, a vessel of memories, and a mirror reflecting her journey as an artist.
Reflecting on her past, Rose shares, “My previous two releases were instrumentals and allowed me to establish myself as a fiddler and composer. I was still very much exploring my sound. It has taken time to understand the fierceness and wildness with the delicate light and ultimately trusting my sound.” Her commitment to her roots is evident, as she draws inspiration from the traditional Cape Breton music of her ancestors while bravely venturing into new artistic territories.
With nearly 25 years as a professional musician under her belt, Rose Morrison’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Hailing from Baddeck, Nova Scotia, she has collaborated with notable artists such as Oscar and Grammy Award winner Glen Hansard, Irish folk legend Breanndán O Beaglaoich, and celebrated Scottish-Canadian tenor John McDermott. Her musical prowess has taken her to prestigious venues, including two performances at Carnegie Hall, a testament to her skill and versatility.
In addition to her collaborative work, Rose has recorded three albums and garnered three East Coast Music Awards, affirming her position as a significant figure in the Canadian folk music scene. Her latest album, The River She Knows, emerges from a fertile creative period over the past four years. Rose stepped into the studio with producer Dave Gunning in November 2021, breathing life into a collection of ten songs that encapsulate her experiences, reflections, and newfound insights.
The River She Knows is not just an album; it’s a journey through Rose’s heart and soul, unveiling her growth as a songwriter. The album features collaborations with fellow musicians Graham Marshall, Chris Joslin, and Dave Gunning, each contributing to the rich tapestry of sound that defines Rose’s artistry.
The songs explore themes of connection—connections to the river, the land, the people she loves, and ultimately, to herself. The lyrics resonate with poignant storytelling, embodying the essence of Cape Breton’s spirit. Rose’s delicate voice carries the weight of her experiences, weaving together narratives of love, loss, and the beauty of the natural world.
With The River She Knows, Rose emerges as a poignant and insightful songwriter, drawing from her past while embracing the unknown. Her ability to blend traditional elements with contemporary sounds is a hallmark of her artistry, a reflection of her dedication to evolving as a musician. Each track tells a story, inviting listeners to journey alongside her as she navigates the intricacies of life and love.
One of the standout tracks, “The River,” encapsulates the essence of Rose’s connection to her surroundings. It is a song that speaks of stillness and introspection, urging listeners to find solace in nature. As Rose walks the river, she captures the beauty of simple moments, reminding us to pause and appreciate the world around us.
The album's other songs are equally compelling, showcasing Rose’s lyrical depth and musical versatility. From the haunting melodies that echo the waves crashing against the shore to the lively tunes that celebrate the joy of life, each track invites listeners to feel and reflect.
The River She Knows marks Rose’s third solo album, following her debut The MacKenzie Project in 2010 and Atlantic, which received the East Coast Music Awards’ Instrumental Recording of the Year in 2018. This latest offering is part of a busy year for Rose, as she also prepares to release a duo album with Breanndán O Beaglaoich in the fall, further showcasing her commitment to collaboration and exploration in her music.
As she continues to grow and evolve as an artist, Rose Morrison stands at the intersection of tradition and innovation. She embodies the spirit of the Great White North—fierce, resilient, and deeply connected to the land. With her pure and delicate voice, she invites us to listen, to reflect, and to connect with the stories that shape us.
Beyond her personal journey, Rose recognizes the importance of community in her music. The folk scene in Canada is vibrant and supportive, with artists lifting one another up and sharing their experiences. This sense of camaraderie has been instrumental in Rose’s development, allowing her to learn from others while staying true to her roots.
In a world that often feels fragmented, music serves as a unifying force, bringing people together and fostering a sense of belonging. Rose’s work exemplifies this, as she weaves her experiences with the collective stories of her community. As she collaborates with fellow musicians and engages with her audience, she creates a space where everyone can connect through the power of music.
As Rose Morrison continues to rise from the Great White North, she carries with her the voices of her ancestors, the echoes of the land, and the wisdom of the river. Her journey as a musician is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of creativity. In sharing her story, she inspires others to explore their connections to the world around them, urging us all to listen to the whispers of the land and the songs of our hearts.
With The River She Knows, Rose Morrison invites us to join her on a journey of self-discovery, connection, and the transformative power of music. As she navigates the waters of her artistry, she reminds us that, like the river, life is a continuous flow of experiences, emotions, and revelations.
As she prepares for the release of her upcoming duo album, we eagerly anticipate what lies ahead for this talented artist. Rose Morrison is not just a voice from the Great White North; she is a powerful force in the Canadian music landscape, illuminating our paths with her artistry and grace.
In a world that often feels divided, Rose Morrison stands as a beacon of hope, reminding us that music can bridge gaps, heal wounds, and connect us all in a shared celebration of life. Through her work, she honours her roots while inspiring others to find their voices and share their stories, ensuring that the spirit of Cape Breton and the beauty of the Great White North continue to resonate far and wide.
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Stevie Connor is originally from Scotland, for the last 16 years he has been based just outside of Toronto in the GTA.
He is a recorded artist having contributed to more than twenty albums in the past, ranging from rock to folk and Celtic music. He is a top class piper and plays guitar and whistles, his original compositions have been recorded and played by other artists.
He is the founder and editor of The Sound Cafe Magazine and co-founder of Blues and Roots Radio, he has written in the past for Blues and Roots Radio (Canada), Great Dark Wonder (USA), Fatea Magazine (UK) and Music World Media (Australia). Stevie has contributed his many years of experience as a respected juror for the JUNO Awards, The Canadian Folk Music Awards, and the Maple Blues Awards in Canada.
Find out more about Stevie Connor...
Unsung Hero Award 2023
Substack
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