Hear Vancouver singer-songwriter Chris Ronald at an intimate free concert at the ACT next week.
Since Ronald started songwriting at age 15, he has amassed a collection of melodic, meaningful, and memorable folk songs.
Influenced by artists such as Neil Young, Paul Simon, and James Taylor, he has learned how to compose songs with broad appeal while tackling issues such as the environment, social responsibility, family, and relationships.
Spurred on by encouragement from fans and an innate belief that his songs are destined for a wider audience, Ronald produced his first album, Pacific Time, in 2004 so he could have a CD to sell at gigs.
It soon became apparent, too, that people loved his music. Six years and three children later, he began work on his follow-up album, which was to become an altogether more ambitious project involving guest musicians and a higher level of production.
The resulting Turning Tides CD, recorded and produced by Ronald in his basement studio and independently released in 2011, has received five-star reviews from respected music press such as The Georgia Straight and Roots Music Report and has been aired nationwide on CBC Radio and numerous other stations.
A singer, guitarist, harmonica player, and poet, Ronald writes and sings from the heart with a rare lyrical and vocal talent.
SongStage at the ACT hosted by local songwriter Ivan Boudreau.
• Chris Ronald plays SongStage at the ACT on Tuesday, Dec. 11 from 7 p.m. to 9 p.m.