Lori Yates’ Departure Leaves a Void in Hamilton’s Music Scene

Last year, Hamilton’s music community bid farewell to a beloved figure as Lori Yates relocated to Toronto after more than two decades of calling Hamilton her home. Known as one of Canada’s most revered country singers, Yates left behind a rich legacy as a talented performer, songwriter, and recording artist, as well as a cherished mentor and collaborator.

Having resided on Market Street in downtown Hamilton since 2002, Yates and her husband Gary made the difficult decision to move to Toronto due to Gary’s new job running a homeless shelter, which made commuting from Hamilton impractical. With their son Gavin already settled in Toronto for his studies, the move was a natural progression despite Yates’ initial reluctance to leave Hamilton’s welcoming embrace.

However, Yates arrived in Toronto with a creative spark ignited during the pandemic. She had spent countless hours at home on Market Street crafting new songs, which she later shared with her loyal fans through weekly livestream webcasts. These songs formed the backbone of her latest album, “Matador,” marking her eighth solo release since her debut in 1988.

With encouragement from her friend Chris Houston, a veteran of Hamilton’s punk rock scene, Yates took her new material to Blue Rodeo’s Woodshed studio in Toronto. There, she reunited with old friends and collaborators, including members of her former band Hey Stella. Despite the bittersweetness of the recording sessions, which saw the passing of guitarist David Baxter shortly afterward, Yates poured her heart and soul into the album.

“Matador” pays homage to Yates’ roots, featuring tracks inspired by her experiences at iconic Toronto venues like The Matador, where she once rubbed shoulders with music legends like Joni Mitchell and Leonard Cohen. Additionally, Yates revisits her early years in Nashville by re-recording songs that she felt never received their due recognition.

The album’s release not only marks a significant milestone in Yates’ career but also serves as a tribute to the memories and relationships she forged in Hamilton. As she prepares to return to her former stomping grounds for a solo performance at The Casbah, accompanied by Chris Houston, the Hamilton music scene eagerly awaits the chance to celebrate Yates’ enduring legacy and bid her a fond farewell.

Meanwhile, Chris Houston continues to captivate audiences with his distinct brand of musical eccentricity. His latest album, “Topsy Turvy Land,” offers a whimsical journey through Hamilton’s local landmarks and cultural quirks, showcasing Houston’s lyrical prowess and featuring contributions from a stellar lineup of musicians.

As both Yates and Houston embark on new chapters in their musical journeys, their influence and contributions to the Hamilton music scene remain indelible, leaving an enduring mark on the city’s cultural landscape.