Balladeer and actor John Gogo hails from a musical family in Snuneymuxw (a.k.a. Nanaimo) on Vancouver Island. Best known for writing and performing his folk songs about the people and places, the true and tall tales of the West Coast, John produced his sixth full-length album, Western Balladeer.

The LP’s wistful, “Cougar Annie,” was inspired by Western Canadian legendary pioneer Ada Annie Rae-Arthur. The homesteader carved out a five-acre garden in the wilderness, ran a successful nursery, post office and general store while raising 11 children. She became known as “Cougar Annie” after word got around about her shooting around 70 cougars and countless bears that had threatened her kids and garden.

One of the aspects of Ada Annie‘s life that intrigues me was that she outlived four husbands. My story of her is sung in the form of a letter written from the perspective of a potential suitor.  – John Gogo

Western Balladeer features Duke & Goldie (Eric Duquette & Jena Gogo), Jeri Gogo, Tyler Lieb, David Essig, Ed Peekeekoot, Paul Gogo, Brent Gubbels, Alan Moberg, Tobin Stokes, Rick Scott, Daniel Lapp, Dazy Weymer & Valdy.

What can you share with readers about your new project?

Thanks for asking. The album title (‘Western Balladeer’) has lots of meaning for me. My 4 generations of west coast roots mean a lot to me, and of course a ballad is a song that tells a story, that’s what I’m really into. I am certainly not saying I am ‘the’ western balladeer, but I am definitely ‘a’ western balladeer! 

How does this release compare with your other projects you had in the

past?

My first album in 1990 was very much a folk album (on a cassette!). I did 2 more albums in the 90s but my kids were little and I figured I should try and make some money, because everyone knows there’s no money in folk music! So I went in sort of a “roots rock” direction. But naturally the best approach is to follow your heart so I eventually settled back to being a folkie. 

What about this single makes you most proud?

It’s almost always men that get “immortalized in song”, so I am proud to sing about ‘Cougar Annie’. She’s a true west coast pioneer and legend.

What motivates you to keep going?

To be honest and maybe a little immodest, I believe I continue to improve as a songwriter. That keeps me motivated, and I suppose like most artists, we want our stuff out there.

If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why? 

That’s easy, George Harrison! I became a fan at just 4 years of age and I always just loved everything about him. Probably Gordon Lightfoot too, who I invariably get compared to a lot, which is a honour. I think that’s probably because we both have such a love for ‘Canadiana’. In reality I love collaborating, both live and in the studio, with my daughters including Jena’s duo Duke & Goldie. 

Favorite all-time artists? 

There are many Canadian artists who I have long admired and I’ve been blessed to record and perform with many of them. I’ve been a huge fan of Valdy and Rick Scott for over 40 years and more recently Ed Peekeekoot and David Essig. They’re all on my new record! I am an extremely lucky guy.

Where is the best place to find you and stay connected?

Best place to find me is via my website JohnGogo.com or on FB. 

I really appreciate your time. Is there anything you’d like to share before we sign off?

Thanks again, I really appreciate the support and please don’t hesitate with any other questions!