Dawson Murphy is a 22 year old country singer-songwriter from Music Island, Cape Breton, Nova Scotia. Raised in a musical family, he began performing at age 12 alongside his father, Rob Murphy. Dawson recorded his debut single, “Roses,” with producer Jamie Foulds at Soundpark Studios, followed by “Summers Ago” in 2025. With a growing collection of original songs, he is currently working toward releasing his first EP

Hailing from the Northside, Portside Drive is a fresh addition to the Cape Breton music scene. Comprised of four musicians with wide-ranging tastes in music, the band delivers a powerhouse blend of classic and modern rock, with southern swagger. With a setlist that truly offers something for everyone, they are sure to keep you entertained throughout the entire set!

Hearts of Kin is redefining East Coast Americana with a fresh, yet timeless sound. Fronted by sisters Danielle MacDonald and Shellie Ann Tobin, this dynamic duo blends soul-stirring harmonies with their signature slide guitar, crafting music that feels both intimate and cinematic. Their songwriting, rich with raw emotion and storytelling, echoes the spirit of their early influences—Sheryl Crow, Jewel, The Chicks, and the legendary John Prine—while carving a distinct path of its own.

Reunited in their Cape Breton hometown, the sisters have wasted no time making waves. With multiple songs landing #1 spots on East Coast radio charts, Hearts of Kin has earned invitations to showcase at the East Coast Music Awards, the Cavendish Beach Music Festival, and Canada’s Songwriter Festival, The Stan Rogers Folk Festival.

Sharing the spotlight with celebrated artists like Serena Ryder, Michelle Wright, and Lennie Gallant, they have steadily built a reputation as a rising force in Canadian music. Their debut album, “Beautiful Burn,” was met with widespread acclaim, ultimately earning them Music Nova Scotia’s “Country Recording of the Year” in 2024.

With authenticity at their core and a sound that bridges the classic and the cutting edge, Hearts of Kin is proving that sibling harmony isn’t just something you hear—it’s something you feel.

Thick as Thieves is a straight up 80s and 90s Rock band from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia!

In 2022, brothers Dick Lyle & Paul Lyle (former members of local bands The Roadkings and Evolution) decided it was time for a new project, something different. After a few months of looking for the right voice, in walked singer Brad Snow (former Headspin front man) to lend his talent on vocals. Last but definitely not least, lending his killer guitar talents and gigging experience is Logan Graham (Random Order). Finally on Drums is Ronnie Hogan (Bobby Currie Band, Renegade) Ronnie bring amazing vocals as well as drumming pristine to the way the songs were written. Combining their talents and love for 80s rock, Thick as Thieves was born. Whether you want to dance or just relax and listen to some classic, we are the band for you.

Brad Snow – Vocals

Logan Graham – Guitar/Vocals

Paul Lyle- Bass/Vocals

Dick Lyle- Guitar/Vocals

Ronnie Hogan- Drums/Vocals

The Decades are a dynamic folk rock band that fuse meaningful, story-driven lyrics with a powerful, introspective energy. Blending traditional roots with a driving rock edge, the group delivers a sound packed with raw emotion, and undeniable momentum. With a highly anticipated debut album in the works, The Decades are quickly carving out a distinct, high-energy space in the Cape Breton musical community.

Disco Techs is a dynamic band specializing in playing the greatest hits from the 70s dance era. Delivering high-energy performances, that wow and keep audiences singing and dancing all night long. They perform and excite the crowd with funky genuine reproduction of all the songs you hate to love.

Their extensive play list of disco classics makes them ideal for various events, including company parties, festivals, and weddings, etc., ensuring a memorable and lively atmosphere that guarantees the success of any celebration.

Ed Woodsworth is a seasoned East Coast freelance multi-instrumentalist, educator, and producer based in Sydney, Nova Scotia. A graduate of Saint Francis Xavier University with a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Performance (Silver Medalist), Ed has been a musical mainstay for over 35 years. He has recorded and toured globally with major maritime acts, including Jimmy Rankin, Rita MacNeil, Ashley MacIsaac, The Barra MacNeils, Ron Hynes, Bruce Guthro, and Gordie Sampson.

His career highlights include performing on television for the Juno Awards, the Canadian Country Music Awards, and on Late Night with Conan O’Brien. Primarily a bassist, Ed’s natural musicality extends to singing, songwriting, guitar, production, and pedal steel. Recognized for his industry contributions, he received the ECMA Musician’s Achievement Award, and a Music New Brunswick, Folk Recording of the Year nod as a producer. Today, Ed balances a busy schedule as a solo performer, session player, and instructor.

Flo Sampson has been around music her entire life.  The daughter of well-known Cape Breton fiddler Bernie Ley, she began learning her craft from her Dad at the tender age of 11. Mom to Grammy winner Gordie Sampson, Flo is best known for her annual showcases at the East Coast Music Awards, recently held in Sydney. 

Flo released her debut album, at the age of 78, showcasing her favourite songs, and her favourite musicians. She brings some of those friends together to the stage at Rotary’s Ribfest.

Forged in an Ashby basement, darlingOctane is a five-piece rock outfit injecting a new energy into the local scene. Drawing inspiration from every corner of rock and roll history, darlingOctane is made up of Mike McPhee (Guitar), Mark Hooper (Guitar), Dave Newell (Bass), Alison Lewis (Vocals) and Chris McGean (Drums). The band’s self-recorded debut single, “Climbing Out of the Dark” was released to bandcamp in 2024.

Funky. Soulful. Unstoppable.

Leadbeater, Green & Roberts is a funk-powered, blues-driven trio from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, delivering high-energy performances packed with groove, grit, and soul. With deep musical chemistry and decades of combined experience, this band blends blues rock, funk, and classic throwbacks from the ‘60s through the ‘90s into a sound that’s fresh, raw, and impossible to ignore.

The story of Leadbeater, Green & Roberts begins where many great musical stories do—at a local open mic night. Three seasoned musicians shared a stage for the first time, the jam lit a spark, and just like that, a band was born. The synergy was instant, the sound was undeniable, and the audience felt the magic.

·       Ron Leadbeater brings tight, tasteful drumming honed over years of performing jazz and blues across Cape Breton. As the official drummer for The Men of the Deeps and a three-time featured performer at the Cape Breton International Drum Festival, Ron lays down grooves that drive the band’s sound with style and authority.

·       Ben Green, on bass and vocals, delivers a deep, funky low end and a voice that commands attention. A gifted songwriter originally from Whitney Pier, Ben spent years performing across Ontario before returning home to help shape the sound of this powerful trio. He’s released two full-length albums and brings rock-solid chops and feel-good energy to every performance.

·       Jerrett William Michael Roberts (aka Rooster) brings the fire on guitar and lead vocals. A self-taught multi-instrumentalist from Sydney Mines, Jerrett’s stage presence is electric, and his playing is as fierce as it is soulful. From blistering solos to locked-in riffs, he brings the edge that completes the band’s dynamic sound.

Together, they are more than just a band—they’re a funky freight train of rhythm, melody, and raw Cape Breton soul. Whether you’re hitting the dance floor, singing along, or soaking up the groove, Leadbeater, Green & Roberts will move you.

Jesse Cox is a Canadian roots musician whose life in music began long before he ever stepped on stage. Born into a touring folk family, he is the son of Dennis and Lori Cox, musicians who spent years performing across the country and released their record The Welcome Table in 1979. Jesse’s earliest influences trace back even further, to his father’s time at Lena’s Cafe in upstate New York-a legendary stop where Dennis crossed paths with icons like Arlo Guthrie, Mississippi John Hurt, and Bob Dylan. Those encounters helped shape the musical environment Jesse would grow up in.

Hailing from Cape Breton Island, Cox’s songwriting reflects the rugged, grounded spirit of “down north.» His sound is earthy and roots-driven, blending folk traditions with a lived-in authenticity shaped by years of absorbing seasoned performers.

Cox’s career milestones began gaining national attention in 2006 when he was selected for CBC’s Rising Stars and later advanced to the Top 24 on Canadian Idol in Toronto. Nearly a decade later, he earned recognition as the New Brunswick Regional Champion in the CBC Searchlight Competition, with his song “Haul Your Tears” receiving national radio play.

In 2021, Jesse released his debut album Threshing Floor, a project that furthen cemented his place in Canada’s roots music scene. The album features collaborations with Gordie Johnson of Big Sugar (on “Black Angus”) and Shawn Verreault of Wide Mouth Mason (on “Whipping Post”), as well as the track “Tough Love” featuring Isabella Samson. That same year, Cox was part of a musical group Barn Bhreagh alongside Keith Mullins, Isabella Samson, and Juno Award winner Morgan Toney who toured the maritimes for a short time during Covid.

With a lifetime steeped in music and a sound shaped by both heritage and experience, Jesse Cox continues to carry forward a rich tradition of storytelling rooted in folk, blues, and the spirit of Cape Breton.

Listen: https://jessecox.bandcamp.com/

Follow: https://www.facebook.com/jessecoxmusic

Get ready for an unforgettable night of Cape Breton talent as Groovin Blue Skies (GBS) brings together some of the island’s finest musicians for a special festival performance.

Taking the stage from 8:30 PM – 10:00 PM, GBS features the powerhouse lineup of Danny Lockwood (drums/vocals), Dave Burke (piano/organ), and Joe MacLeod (bass/vocals), joined by special guests Tracy MacKinnon and Bob Gill.

 At the heart of GBS is a trio of seasoned musicians with deep roots in Cape Breton’s music scene:

 🥁 Danny Lockwood is a veteran drummer and vocalist known for his work with Juno Award-winning artist Ian Thomas, as well as his contributions to Cape Breton projects including Sonic Highway, Barnful of Blues, and local jazz ensembles. His signature “pocket” style and decades of experience make him one of the island’s most respected performers. 

🎹 Dave Burke is a versatile multi-instrumentalist, composer, and arranger whose work blends Celtic traditions with contemporary sounds. A fixture in Cape Breton’s arts community, Dave has served as Music Director for the Highland Arts Theatre, produced for Elizabeth Patterson, and performed with the Sons of Membertou.

 🎸 Joe MacLeod is a veteran bassist and vocalist known for his unique upside-down bass style. He fronts Sonic Highway, leads the Cape Breton Blues Festival house band Bright Blue Skies, and has shared stages with legends including Jeff Healey, Gordon Lightfoot, and Dutch Mason.

 Joining GBS for this special performance:

 🎤 Tracy MacKinnon — A powerful vocalist with nearly two decades of experience, Tracy brings a soulful blend of blues, rock, country, and folk, with a voice and stage presence that captivate every audience.

 🎸 Bob Gill — A lifelong Whitney Pier musician, Bob has been performing since the age of twelve and has shared his talents through bands including Bandit, Brandy, Mr. Completely, The Howlers, The Dinosaurs, The Decades, and Analog Signal. His passion and experience represent the true spirit of Cape Breton live music.

 The night continues with a special set from Charlene Thomas and Kenny Hutchins.

 🌟 Charlene Thomas is a veteran Cape Breton entertainer whose powerful vocals and versatility have made her one of the island’s most respected performers. Equally at home with blues, classic rock, country, and pop, Charlene brings energy and emotion to every performance.

 🎸 Kenny Hutchins is one of Cape Breton’s most respected guitarists, with more than four decades of experience in rock, blues, and roots music. Known for his work with Ravin’ and The Bar Band, his custom guitar craftsmanship, and his continued performances with GBS, Kenny’s playing has left a lasting mark on the island’s music scene. 

Join us at the Rotary Sydney Rib Festival for a night of incredible food, great atmosphere, and world-class Cape Breton musicians celebrating the power of live music.

Cape Breton singer-songwriter Buddy MacDonald has been entertaining audiences for more than 45 years. The 2022 East Coast Music Association (ECMA) Stompin’ Tom Award-winner was exposed at an early age to the singing and storytelling of some of the great singers of his native Island. Much of his songwriting is still influenced by this style that he was so familiar with as a young boy on the North Shore, and his songs have been performed and recorded by artists around the world. Buddy has entertained audiences throughout Canada, the United States, Germany, Scotland and the Scandinavian countries, performing as a solo act and in different combinations with other musicians from Cape Breton including Natalie MacMaster, Howie MacDonald, Ashley MacIsaac, Dave MacIsaac, and John Allan Cameron among many others. Buddy was host of the late-night Festival Club at Celtic Colours from 1997-2022 and has performed all over the Island with musicians from both sides of the Atlantic including Scotland’s Dougie MacLean and Archie Fisher, and Ireland’s Tommy Makem and Michael Black. Buddy’s iconic song, “Getting Dark Again”, was inducted into the Cape Breton Music Industry Hall of Fame in 2023. Whether in a small country hall, pub, festival or concert theatre, Buddy’s love of writing, singing and entertaining comes across to bridge the gap between performer and listener.

Angelo Spinazzola is an ECMA and Music Nova Scotia award-winning singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and roots artist whose music is deeply intertwined with the rugged beauty of Canada’s East Coast. Based in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, Angelo has spent decades crafting a signature sound that seamlessly blends soulful vocals, evocative guitar work, and masterful harmonica playing.

An authentic storyteller at heart, his songwriting captures the grit, beauty, and resilience of life on the edge of the Atlantic. Angelo’s dynamic performances stretch from intimate, acoustic storytelling to driving, groove-laden roots and blues, showcasing a raw, commanding musicality that has earned him both critical acclaim and a dedicated following.

Whether in the studio or performing live, Angelo commands the stage with a captivating presence built on a lifetime of dedication to his craft. Over a rich and enduring career, he has built a respected discography that honors traditional roots influences while maintaining a fiercely independent, contemporary edge. Above all, his music remains a reflection of the landscape he calls home—vibrant, soulful, and completely unforgettable.

Amelie Sampson is a pop singer‑songwriter and producer from Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, now based in Nashville. Her lucid songwriting paints vivid storytelling as well as melodies that feel both fresh and nostalgic. Raised making music with her father, Sampson discovered her artistic path early and has since translated that foundation into her work today. She is influenced by both modern and classic artists, some of which are Joni Mitchell and Stevie Nicks. 

In October she made her Grand Ole Opry debut as part of a life tribute to Anne Murray and has performed at the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Bluebird Café, and The Red Farm Field Trip festival. Since beginning to release music a year ago and this is just the beginning of her journey 

The MacLean brothers come together for your listening pleasure. The band consists of Larry (drummer, vocals), Dave (bass, vocals), Blaise (rhythm guitar, vocals) George (lead singer, guitar) and his best friend Paddy Carroll (guitar, vocals). They perform party music from the 60s and 70s, and specialize in fun and more fun!