It’s been 40 years since Stanley Allison Rogers lost his life. He was on an Air Canada flight where a fire had broken out as he was making his way back home from a show in Texas. He was just 33 years old. But what a legacy he’s left us through his recordings and songs. Even though he was born in Hamilton, Ontario, he had a connection to the Maritimes, spending summers in Guysborough County. His debut album, Fogarty’s Cove contains the original song that has become a staple around pubs, clubs and campfires. Barrett’s Privateers is a perfect example of a modern folk song using a traditional sea shanty as inspiration. And many musicians have been inspired by Stan’s rich baritone and his knack for writing songs that would make you believe he was a farmer, a fisherman and a celtic bard. Later this summer is the 26th edition of the festival named in his honour July 20th-23rd. Troy Greencorn is the festival founder and artistic director of The Stan Rogers Folk Festival.
