Shane Pendergast has folk music in his blood. Growing up in Prince Edward Island as a lifelong musical artist, he hails from a lineage of storytellers and musicians. Drawing inspiration from the landscapes and lore of his Maritime home, and university years in Toronto performing at pubs. Shane’s songs began to take shape, resonating with themes of community, history, and the sea.

In 2020, Shane returned to PEI, where he founded the Jack Pine Folk Club – a monthly gathering inspired by the coffeehouses of the 1960s, featuring a mix of traditional music and poetry. His 2021 album, Second Wind, won Contemporary Roots Album of the Year at the Music PEI Awards while his 2023 live album, The House Before the Bridge, was nominated for Roots/Traditional Recording of the Year at the East Coast Music Awards.

Shane‘s home is nestled next to a river. Whenever he looks out his window, he sees an ever-changing landscape which lent inspiration to the songcraft on “Only Drifting By,” his latest single about significant people in one’s life becoming strangers, and the complex feelings surrounding that. “I was contemplating the people I have drifted away from over the years,” Shane explains. “It was one of the rare songs for me that was written in one sitting.”

What can you share with readers about your new project?

The song Only Drifting By is about people who drift out of your life. It can be a sad and strange experience. I wrote the song while looking at the river beside my house.

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

I used to write a lot of historical songs, where I would tell the stories of others. But lately I have been writing more about personal experiences. It’s a totally different process, and a more difficult one for me.

What about this single makes you most proud?

I had a strong vocal take, and having Emilea May sing backup harmonies was the icing on top. Overall I’m pleased with the production on the recording.

Was there a specific goal you were trying to accomplish with this release?

I wanted to balance a classic “Maritime folk” sound with a contemporary sound. Everything I write is rooted in my home on Prince Edward Island. It’s a unique place that constantly inspires me. Somewhere melodically or lyrically I hope that spirit comes through.

What inspires you to create music? What motivates you to keep going?

Songwriting is creation and communication. I really love how a song takes on a life of its own once released. People bring their own experiences to it, and sometimes they make surprising connections. It’s a rewarding process, seeing a song go from idea to the stage feels a little like raising a child.

If you could collaborate with anyone – dead or alive, famous or unknown – who would it be and why? If it’s an indie/DIY artist, please include a link so readers can check them out.

Thats a tough one. Well, I’ve been listening to a lot of traditional music, and I’m a big fan of the band Planxty. In a fantasy world I would have loved to write some traditional-sounding songs and have them play on it. Their musicianship was brilliant.

What was the last song you listened to? Favorite all-time bands/artists?

I’m currently on a mini-tour with Lawrence Maxwell. When we were driving, he put on “The Ballad of Larry” by Jonathan Byrd. It was a beautiful story song. My favourite artist/songwriter of all time is Gordon Lightfoot. I like to say I went to the “Lightfoot School of Songwriting.”

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

I’m active on Instagram, @shanependy. I post my upcoming performances on my website, www.shanependergast.com

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

I’ll be releasing a full album on January 17th called “Winter Grace.”