A Modest yet Iconic Singer-Songwriter
Ron Sexsmith is one of Canada’s most accomplished singer-songwriters. With a career spanning over three decades, he has collaborated with numerous artists, including icons like Feist and Leonard Cohen, and his songs have been covered by legendary musicians across various genres.
Collaborations and Legacy
Some of Sexsmith’s notable collaborations include his work with:
- Feist: Sexsmith co-wrote the song “Brandy Alexander” with Feist, which showcases his ability to craft catchy and emotive melodies.
- Leonard Cohen: Sexsmith has collaborated with the late Leonard Cohen on several occasions, demonstrating his respect for Cohen’s unique style and artistry.
- Michael Bublé: Sexsmith’s song “Gold in Them Hills” has been covered by Michael Bublé, highlighting the versatility and appeal of his music.
- Elvis Costello: Elvis Costello has covered Sexsmith’s song “Secret Heart,” further cementing the singer-songwriter’s reputation as a master of his craft.
A Performance at the Mariposa Folk Festival
On a sweltering evening in 2023, Sexsmith took to the stage at the Mariposa Folk Festival Lightfoot Stage, accompanied by his longtime collaborators Don Kerr (guitar) and Jason Mercer (bass). The trio delivered a stripped-down performance that showcased Sexsmith’s raw, intimate style, with clear and rich vocals and gentle falsetto.
| Performance Highlights | |
| Acoustic Guitar | Sexsmith played his signature acoustic guitar, accompanied by his collaborators. |
| Piano | Sexsmith switched to piano mid-set, showcasing his versatility and range. |
| Upbeat and Intimate | The performance was characterized by a mix of upbeat and intimate moments, keeping the audience engaged throughout. |
A Humble and Charismatic Performer
Sexsmith’s performance was marked by his signature self-deprecating humor, as he joked about his age and the heat. He maintained a boyish charm, complemented by his fingerstyle acoustic guitar and warm vocal delivery. His voice was clear and rich, with occasional gentle falsetto.
Setlist Highlights
- Up the Road
- Hard Bargain
- Spring of the Following Year
- Brandy Alexander
- Gold in Them Hills
- Don’t Lose Sight
- Cigarette and Cocktail
- Secret Heart
A Performance that Exceeded Expectations
The performance was a testament to Sexsmith’s skill as a singer-songwriter and his ability to connect with audiences. Despite the heat and his own self-deprecation, he maintained a tranquil and soothing atmosphere, captivating the crowd with his music.
Quote from the Performance
“I hit a bunch of bum notes,” Sexsmith joked after playing “Spring of the Following Year.” However, if he did, it wasn’t obvious, and his humility only added to the evening’s charm.
A Legacy that Continues to Grow
Ron Sexsmith’s legacy as a singer-songwriter continues to grow, with his music being covered by artists across genres. His ability to craft catchy and emotive melodies, combined with his unique style and artistry, has solidified his place as one of Canada’s most respected singer-songwriters.
Conclusion
Ron Sexsmith’s performance at the Mariposa Folk Festival was a testament to his skill as a singer-songwriter and his ability to connect with audiences. With his signature self-deprecating humor, humble charm, and captivating music, Sexsmith proved that he remains one of Canada’s greatest singer-songwriters.
