A seasoned music producer of 25 years tears-up after she performs for his approval at a songwriting competition. Her song is about a pile of rocks. She wins the competition. But that was Stephanie Hardy last year.
In July, Stephanies debut album Brand New Skin launched to a rousing full-house in a place known for grooming world-famous Canadian musicians Sarah McLachlan, Rita MacNeil, Great Big Sea, Jimmy Rankin and Denny Doherty of the Mammas and Pappas all started out in hometown Atlantic Canada.
I dont remember a time when I wasnt singing or playing an instrument, says Stephanie, adding she would often sing for anyone who would listen. I always knew music would be an important part of my life in some way.
Brand New Skin, is an impressive body of work that includes 10 original songs co-written or written by Stephanie. Singles Waiting for the Tide, Long Time Coming and Wonder Why hit the ..1 spot on the nationally syndicated, Internet-based East Coast Countdown before entering heavy rotation on regional broadcast radio.
Stephanies vocals are transparent and coolly controlled. Her range and tone release just enough emotion to carry the song; making each single distinctive and memorable. A true professional, Stephanie makes it all feel easy and natural; like the beginning of a long friendship.
So far in 2006, Stephanie has performed for the Dixie Chicks, opened for George Canyon and played alongside gifted musicians Gordie Sampson and J. P. Cormier. In August, Stephanie returns home to tape another CTV tourism ad for Destination Cape Breton. Afterwards, shes off to Halifax to tape the network special Celtic Angels, due this Christmas on Vision TV.
Stephanie says shes been blessed by many different experiences these past few years. It has helped me grow and understand the world much better than I ever had, she says, My writing has been greatly influenced by these changes; my style is much more honest. I think this makes my songs easier to relate to and for the listener to feel like its their own voice.
Stephanies ability to carve an emotional path with music is sometimes attributed to the rugged character of her Atlantic Canada hometown of Bras dOr. Its impossible to grow up there and not have an appreciation for music, says Stephanie, Music is evident in every corner of Cape Breton Island.
Stephanies songwriting engages mind, body and place. Her music willingly explores corridors in our minds that we seldom allow ourselves to visit. As an artist, Stephanie invites us to rest awhile and linger in a suspended place of shared experiences. The result is a meaningful journey into us via each song.
Ironically, a simpler journey led Stephanie to explore her talent. A VIA Rail first-class excursion train needed a solo singer/guitarist at the same time Stephanie needed a way to pay for university. Passengers encouragement spurred Stephanie to seek gigs in local pubs, where her songs quickly found an audience.
For a time, I sang cover tunes since thats what I thought people wanted to hear, says Stephanie, but I began to notice an appreciation for my songs and my ability to reach people. It was then that she decided to switch gears. Today, Stephanie Hardy is moving forward full steam ahead!
i was very happy to see you at the NS music week... your performance was enchanting. i hope you didn't get snowed in saturday night! crazy! anyway, please let me know if you're playing in halifax anytime soon, i'll bring my posse. all the best, TommyGreenJr
Stephanie thanks 4 the add. WOW your music is great Love the voice. And what a sound when u sing. U really have the talent and it shows in your songs when u sing the words sound like they come right from your heart. thanks 4 sharing your music with me
