Four Chords and The Truth: A Decade of Song, Soul, and Storytelling
- Stevie Connor
- May 3
- 4 min read
Photo Credit: Jag Gundu Photography.
There are moments in music when something transcendent happens — when a song isn't just heard, but felt, and the story behind it connects artist and audience in a rare and powerful way. Since its inception in 2015, Four Chords and The Truth has made a home for those moments.
On May 22nd, the beloved songwriter series returns to TD Music Hall at the Allied Music Centre in Toronto to mark its 10th Anniversary Edition — its 30th show — with a lineup as dynamic and soul-stirring as the legacy it celebrates. The evening, curated and hosted by acclaimed singer-songwriter and tireless advocate Andrea England, will feature the talents of two-time JUNO nominee Terra Lightfoot, chart-topping artist Jesse Gold, the emotionally resonant AHI, and East Coast standout Logan Richard. And in classic Four Chords style, a few surprise guests are expected to grace the stage.
England’s original idea — a one-off songwriter showcase at Toronto’s Dakota Tavern — quickly caught fire:
“When I booked the first Four Chords and The Truth show, it was just supposed to be one event; but as soon as that show ended, people wanted to know when the next one was,” Andrea recalls. “So I booked another one…and another…and another…and now, 10 years, 130 songwriters, and 29 shows later… people are still asking when the next show is, so I keep on booking them.”
That momentum speaks not just to the quality of the music, but to the spirit of the event — a spirit that my wife Anne and I have been privileged to witness since day one. We were honoured to attend the first performance thanks to Andrea’s invitation, and what followed has been nothing short of extraordinary. Over the years, through Blues & Roots Radio, we created an exclusive podcast series spotlighting more than 100 performers who graced the Four Chords stage, capturing both music and candid conversations. Even as the venue evolved and the show moved to TD Music Hall, our support never wavered — neither did the emotional connection.
“The strong connection my wife Anne and I have with this event is beyond description — we are family with the Four Chords team, and it's played an integral role in our lives. I’ve had the honour of interviewing over 100 artists as part of Blues & Roots Radio’s exclusive podcast series, which featured music and conversations with each performer right up until the move to TD Music Hall. We continue to support the series through The Sound Cafe and never miss a show. One very personal and special thing I’ll share — we have posters from every single show at home, each signed by the artists and special guests. With 130 signatures from some of Canada’s finest songwriters, it’s a powerful reminder of the memories we carry and the magic this series has brought into our lives.”— Stevie Connor, Founder of The Sound Cafe and Blues & Roots Radio
Beyond the music, Four Chords and The Truth has always stood for something deeper. Over the past decade, the series has raised thousands for the Unison Fund, offering critical support to members of the Canadian music industry. This year, the spotlight turns to MusiCounts, with proceeds from the May 22nd poster sales going to support music education in Canada.
“The impact of this collaboration will help inspire the next generation of songwriters by providing instruments and equipment to kids who wouldn't otherwise get the chance to make music,” says Kristy Fletcher, President of MusiCounts.
The series continues to thrive thanks to its presenting partner Herradura Tequila and supporters TikTok, CMRRA, and the Songwriters Association of Canada.
From that first night at the Dakota Tavern to a sold-out legacy that’s even reached the iconic Bluebird Café in Nashville, Four Chords and The Truth remains a one-of-a-kind listening experience — where songwriting is sacred, stories matter, and the connection between artist and audience runs deep.
From all of us at The Sound Cafe, we wish Andrea England much continued success with Four Chords and The Truth. Here’s to the next ten years — and the stories still to be told.
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Stevie Connor, a Scottish-born polymath of the music scene, is renowned for his versatility across various domains within the industry. Initially destined for football, Stevie's heart found its true calling in music. His multifaceted journey has seen him excel as a musician, composer, recording artist, journalist, and internet radio pioneer.
In 2012, Stevie laid the foundation for Blues and Roots Radio, an online platform that quickly became a global stage for blues, roots, folk, Americana, and Celtic music. His visionary leadership propelled the platform to international acclaim. Not content with just one venture, Stevie expanded his influence in 2020 by founding The Sound Cafe Magazine, a multilingual platform dedicated to artist interviews, album reviews, and music news.
Stevie's impact extends beyond these platforms. His discerning ear and industry acumen have presented opportunities to be selected as a juror for national awards such as the JUNO Awards, the Canadian Folk Music Awards, and the Maple Blues Awards. Through his tireless efforts, he has earned a solid reputation within the music community, garnering respect from peers and artists alike.
Despite his extensive responsibilities, Stevie remains deeply connected to his roots, both musically and geographically. He continues to contribute to the vibrant tapestry of the music world, ensuring his influence resonates far beyond any single platform. Stevie's enduring passion and commitment to music make him a true luminary in the industry.
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