David Essig
DAVID ESSIG was introduced to Canadian audiences in 1971 as a “talented newcomer” at the legendary Mariposa Folk Festival. Now, over 30 years later, he is considered one of Canada’s finest interpreters of original, contemporary folk music. Always paying homage to his roots in Bluegrass and Country Blues, David uses these traditions to create new songs that are both timely and timeless. His intense energy and incisive wit have made him a favourite with audiences around the world.
David is highly respected as a thoughtful and intelligent songwriter, with Canadian folk standards like “Albert’s Cove” and “High Ground” to his credit. His work moves from pieces as contemporary as today’s news, to songs that sound as if they were rediscovered from old country blues 78’s. These are songs that tell stories and paint portraits that will start you laughing and leave you crying.
Equally renowned as an instrumentalist and traditional performer, David is a master of the blues and slide guitar. Whether on the lap-style Weissenborn or the electric Godin guitar, his spontaneous style crosses all the borders between country, blues and the avant-garde. And with his 5/8” socket and a sound that could peel the petunias off your mother’s porcelain, he is considered one of Canada’s great slide guitarists.
In 1986, David became the first Canadian artist to sign with the important Italian label, Appaloosa/IRD, which now issues his recordings world-wide. David’s next CD, Declaration Day, featuring special guests Sacred Steel legends, The Campbell Brothers, will be released Spring of 2002 and will mark his 17th album. IRD is also re-issuing on CD all of David’s original LP recordings - the third volume will also be released in 2002.
David Essig performs solo in concerts and at festivals in Canada and around the globe. He appears frequently in Europe and has toured as well in Australia, Asia, and the USA. He is a master of musical tradition, a songwriter of poetic vision, a unique member of Canada’s cultural community.
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