Tara MacLean Biography

Tara MacLean is a Canadian singer-songwriter, author, and activist with a career spanning over 25 years, known for her soulful melodies, poignant lyrics, and commitment to environmental and social justice causes. 

Tara MacLean: A Canadian Musical Treasure

Tara MacLean, synonymous with soulful melodies and poignant lyrics, has captivated audiences for over two decades with her unique blend of country, folk and pop music. This Canadian singer-songwriter has left an indelible mark on the music industry and emerged as a powerful voice for environmental and social justice causes.

Early Beginnings and Rise to Fame

Born and raised on Prince Edward Island, Tara MacLean’s musical journey began at a very young age. According to her mother, Tara sang before she could even speak, a testament to her innate musical talent. Growing up in a household where music was ever-present, thanks to her father’s career as a gospel and country singer-songwriter, Tara’s path in music seemed almost predestined.

In 1996, Tara’s talent caught the attention of the Nettwerk Music Group and Sony Music Publishing Canada, leading to the release of her debut album. The recording began a stellar career that would see her signing to major labels like Capitol Records and EMI Canada.

A Prolific Career: Solo Success and Band Ventures

Over the years, Tara has proven herself a prolific artist, releasing seven solo albums and two with her JUNO-nominated band, Shaye. Her music, characterised by its emotional depth and lyrical prowess, has resonated with audiences worldwide.

Awards and Accolades

Tara’s talent has not gone unnoticed in the industry. She has received numerous awards, including:

• SOCAN Songwriter of the Year
• Solo Recording of the Year for her album “Deeper” at the PEI Music Awards
• The Stompin’ Tom Award from the East Coast Music Association for Outstanding Contribution to Music in the Region

Beyond Music: A Multi-Faceted Artist

While music remains at the core of Tara MacLean’s artistic expression, she has successfully ventured into other creative realms.

Theatre and Performance

Tara wrote, produced, and directed the hit theatre show “Atlantic Blue – The Stories of Atlantic Canada’s Iconic Songwriters.” This production, which ran for three summer seasons in Charlottetown, showcased Tara’s versatility as an artist and her deep connection to her Atlantic Canadian roots.

Author and Poet

In a significant milestone, Tara recently released her first book with HarperCollins, chronicling her life in music. This literary debut was accompanied by a new album, “Sparrow,” serving as the soundtrack to her written words. Upon its release, the book quickly hit the bestseller list, further cementing Tara’s status as a multi-talented artist.

Musical Influences and Collaborations

A diverse array of influences has shaped Tara’s musical style. She cites Peter Gabriel, Daniel Lanois, and Stevie Nicks as some of her biggest musical inspirations. The impact of these artists is evident in Tara’s work, which often features a blend of country sensibilities with folk and pop elements.

Throughout her career, Tara has had the opportunity to tour and perform with some of the biggest names in the music industry. She has shared stages with artists like Nelly Furtado, Dido, and Sarah McLachlan and even opened for legendary acts such as The Cure and Garbage. These experiences have undoubtedly contributed to her growth as a performer and songwriter.

Activism and Social Responsibility

Beyond her musical achievements, Tara MacLean is known for her commitment to various causes. She is a passionate environmental and social justice activist who uses her platform to raise awareness about important issues. The Senate of Canada recognised Tars’s dedication to these causes with the Medal for her activist work in her community.

Recent Projects and Future Endeavours

Live in My Hometown

Tara’s latest release, “Live in My Hometown,” is an album that captures the essence of her performances. It is particularly special to her because she recorded it live at the Confederation Centre of the Arts, a venue close to Tara’s heart, where she grew up singing.

Continuing to Inspire

As Tara continues to create and perform, she remains committed to using her art as a means of connection and expression. In her own words, Tara sums up her approach to music and life: “We have one life. Live it fully. Be of service to the world and love, love, love with all your might.”

Conclusion: Tara Maclean, A Canadian Icon

Tara MacLean’s journey in the music industry is a testament to her talent, perseverance, and versatility. From her early days on Prince Edward Island to international stages, she has consistently delivered music that touches the soul and speaks to the human experience. As a singer, songwriter, author, and activist, Tara MacLean is a shining example of Canadian artistry and a true icon in the country music scene.

With her unwavering commitment to her craft and causes, Tara MacLean’s influence extends beyond music. She inspires new musicians and anyone who believes in the power of art to change the world. As she continues to evolve as an artist and human being, one thing remains sure: Tara MacLean’s voice, both in music and life, will continue to resonate for years.

We first encountered Tara MacLean, sitting at an adjacent table at the Receiver Coffee Shop on Prince Edward Island. We overheard her talking about an upcoming showcase that afternoon for international buyers at the beautifully acoustic, wooden St. Mary’s Church. We explained that we were one of the Music PEI invited festival producers and we immediately felt the warmth and compassion of this wonderful musician. Her performance that day was a masterclass in audience engagement – simultaneously hilarious and profoundly moving – with one transcendent musical moment that seemed to descend directly from heaven, instantly convincing us that the TBCMF audience would be utterly captivated.

Tara will open the Empress Ballroom’s main stage on Saturday, 30 August 2025.