After decades of performing before screaming fans, an acclaimed singer/songwriter now has more to offer than just great music.
Séan McCann, founding member of the internationally-renowned, multiple-platinum selling folk group Great Big Sea, is all about truth whether it's his own battles with alcoholism and sexual abuse or concerns about anti-social behavior that he says is resulting from social media.
McCann has gone public about his alcoholism that covered up the pain from sexual abuse he experienced as a teenager.
Now as a solo artist and mental health advocate, he has plenty to say.
Foothills residents can hear his message, through song and conversations, April 26 at 7:30 p.m. at the Rotary Performing Arts Centre in Okotoks as part of a three-month North American tour to promote his fifth solo album There's a Place.
“Everything I've written for the last five years has been my message – it's where I really am in my life,” he said. “I've come to peace with my past and I've learned where the future lives. For me it's in small theatres like Okotoks singing together with people because that's what gives my life purpose. I'm compelled to do this kind of work.”
McCann's songs reflect his ongoing journey towards peace, love and contentment while opening up about his past struggles while returning to his traditional roots music.
According to McCann, the music produced by Great Big Sea was superficial.
“We didn't really impact people's lives in a meaningful way other than to say forget your troubles and have a drink instead,” he said. “That's not what I'm about anymore. I want to be a brighter flame.”
McCann said he's also hoping to spread the message that those who are suffering are not alone.
“We've all experienced hardships, we all suffer in our hearts,” he said. “The real test is how we deal with our problems. You have to face them even if it's hard. Alcohol and drugs is just a Band-Aid.”
McCann said truth is important. It has to be faced and everyone deserves a more sincere world.
“When I'm on stage I'm the best version of myself,” he said. “When I'm writing songs you're getting the best of Séan McCann because I'm trying to be real and say what matters. I'm trying to lift people's hurts and stay positive.”
To the 50-year-old, music is his saviour.
“I've dealt with my recovery in a way that keeps me sober,” he said.
McCann said he hopes to see other people follow suit, especially those who are dealing with issues like sexual abuse.
“The fact that sexual abuse still happens and that there's trauma from it and people get away with it and people suffer from it, I don't think we've done enough,” he said. “Sheldon Kennedy, who has done more for that cause, not just talking about it but by building a hospital for children in Calgary for victims of sexual abuse and he's treated over 8,000 in three years. Those are staggering numbers.”
Through his own research, McCann has learned 90 per cent of sexual abuse cases are perpetrated by people who are close to the victims.
“Statistics prove stranger danger is a myth,” he said. “These are things we have to talk about it.”
Another issue close to McCann's heart is one he said many people aren't aware of – isolation caused by social media.
“A typical Friday night now is for someone to come home, pour a glass of wine and go on Facebook,” he said. “That's not a healthy society. Social media has led to social isolation. It's been my mission to fight against that darkness.”
McCann said he'll keep going on stage with his guitar “Old Brown” and sharing his messages.
“I love singing, I love interacting, love being in front of an audience and getting them to sing,” he said. “They are very singable songs littered with messages that are positive.”
Heading to places like Okotoks is just the way to do that, he said.
“I'm finding myself in smaller theaters where I have an honest interaction with people,” he said. “I don't care if I'm ever in a hockey rink again. I want to catch them before they all slip away into the irresistible gaze of Facebook.”
Tickets to see Séan McCann perform are $25 in advance and $30 at the door. Tickets can be purchased at the Okotoks Art Gallery or by calling 403-938-3204.
