Maritime Music Greats: Fifty Years of Hits and Heartbreak

Dave D.C. Norman is a freelance contemporary-music journalist.

In their introduction, the authors describe Canadian Maritime music as a
“living extension of centuries-old traditions.” This theme recurs
throughout almost all of the mini-biographies that make up the text of
Maritime Music Greats.

Whether it’s the yodelling of old-timer Wilf Carter or the passionate
vocals of Rita MacNeil, the influences of Celtic rhythms run deep
through its living participants. In this well-researched book, Beaton
and Pedersen reveal many lesser-known facts about their subjects. From
Stompin’ Tom Connors’s origins in a St. John orphanage to Anne
Murray’s early (trademark) barefoot concerts, the reader shares the
thoughts and feelings of some of Canada’s most famous singers and
songwriters.

Also covered in the book are Hank Snow, Don Messer, Gene MacLellan,
John Allan Cameron, and Caroll Baker. Don Messer is portrayed as the
genius behind Canada’s most popular TV and radio shows, but he is also
revealed as a shy perfectionist with a well-known contempt for
“change.” John Allan Cameron is described as a “godfather” to
new Maritime artists like the Rankin Family and the Barra MacNeils, but
is also criticized for some of his nonmusical forays.

Though the biographies are often sidetracked by unnecessary historical
information, the authors are effective in conveying the honesty of
Maritime musicians and their loyalty to their musical pasts. The
discography (somewhat incomplete) is an added bonus for readers who want
an overview of Maritime recordings. Despite its minor flaws, this is a
concise and detailed account of some of Eastern Canada’s music greats.