His vivid, lyrical songs are elevated by his mastery of the guitar and the haunting resonance of his melodic, cobalt voice. With a career spanning multiple decades and acclaimed albums, Fearing has shared stages and studios with an eclectic assortment of musical legends, including Merle Haggard, Richard Thompson, and Cassandra Wilson.
As a co-founder of Canadian roots-rock icons Blackie and the Rodeo Kings, Fearing’s genre-busting music consistently captures the messy splendour of the human condition. These weaving tales resonate deeply with listeners. “I’m a storyteller more than a singer/songwriter,” Fearing says, “because I understand that THE STORY is more interesting than my story.”
A multi-JUNO award winner, he has released 14 solo albums, each a testament to his broad talent and creative vision. His album “Every Soul’s a Sailor” (2017) garnered international acclaim, earning him the prestigious Worldwide Album of the Year from Blues & Roots Radio and the Contemporary Singer of the Year title at the Canadian Folk Music Awards.
Fearing’s music transcends boundaries, seamlessly blending roots, folk, and Americana influences to create a mesmerizing sound that has captivated audiences both nationally and internationally. Building his following ‘old school’ through countless performances at intimate venues, concert halls, and festivals, Fearing has earned a reputation as one of Canada’s great musical storytellers. His ability to craft narratives that delve into the depths of human emotion, coupled with his prowess as a guitarist, has solidified his status as a true icon of the Canadian music scene.
Throughout this journey, Fearing has remained true to his roots, constantly pushing the boundaries of his artistry while staying grounded in the storytelling traditions that have defined his music. As he continues to evolve as an artist and storyteller, Stephen Fearing reaffirms his status as one of Canada’s most acclaimed guitarists and musical visionaries, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of contemporary folk music. Fearing is set to release his 15th studio album,The Empathist, in early 2025.
