‘Celebrating a Canadian Songwriting Legacy: Ron Sexsmith Reflects on “Sexsmith at Sixty” at Massey Hall’

Ron Sexsmith, the mellifluous St. Catharines-born singer/songwriter, takes center stage at Massey Hall for the sixth time with his career retrospective, “Sexsmith at Sixty.” Despite facing challenges in the music industry, where radio airplay and chart-topping hits elude him, Sexsmith’s resilience and musical prowess have made him a revered figure in the industry.

Known for his soul-stirring fan favorites like “Secret Heart,” “Strawberry Blonde,” and “Gold in Them Hills,” Sexsmith’s songs, often under four minutes, defy conventional radio norms. With 17 albums under his belt since his debut in 1995, he may not have achieved massive sales, but he has garnered the admiration of musical legends such as Paul McCartney, Elton John, Bob Dylan, and more.

His peers not only praise him but collaborate with him, as seen with on-stage appearances or joint studio projects. Additionally, Sexsmith’s songwriting has left an indelible mark, with artists like Michael Bublé, Rod Stewart, k.d. lang, and others covering his compositions.

Despite not conforming to industry expectations, Sexsmith’s devoted fan base has allowed him to tour globally, accumulating a substantial Spotify following of 142,000 monthly listeners. Grateful for the unexpected support from artists he admired, Sexsmith’s journey is a testament to the enduring power of genuine musical talent.