In a somber turn of events, the music world bids farewell to Myles Goodwyn, the legendary Canadian musician and the creative force behind the iconic rock band April Wine. Goodwyn passed away on December 3, 2023, after a courageous battle with cancer. Today, we reflect on the life and prolific career of a man who left an indelible mark on the landscape of Canadian rock.
Early Life and Musical Genesis:
Born on June 23, 1948, in Woodstock, New Brunswick, Myles Goodwyn’s musical journey began in the picturesque landscapes of Waverley, Nova Scotia. As a young man, he hitchhiked to church on Sundays, setting the stage for a life that would be intertwined with the rhythm of music.
The Rise of April Wine:
In 1969, Myles Goodwyn, along with David, Ritchie, and Jim Henman, formed April Wine, a band that would become a cornerstone of Canadian rock history. Goodwyn’s leadership steered the group from its humble garage band beginnings to the zenith of multiplatinum success. April Wine produced 16 studio albums, including classics like “Roller” and “Just Between You and Me.”
Solo Ventures and Recognition:
Beyond April Wine’s peak, Goodwyn embarked on a solo career, receiving accolades such as the National Achievement Award at the 2002 SOCAN Awards and an ECMA Lifetime Achievement Award in 2003. His passion for blues music culminated in albums like “Myles Goodwyn & Friends of the Blues,” showcasing collaborations with blues luminaries.
Awards and Honors:
Goodwyn’s contributions were recognized through inductions into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, Canada’s Walk of Fame, and the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. His song “For Ukraine” earned him the prestigious Singapore International Festival of Arts award in 2022 for “best social impact music/art.”
The Final Bow:
December 20, 2022, marked Myles Goodwyn’s retirement from touring with April Wine due to health concerns related to diabetes. Nevertheless, he continued to write for the band and delivered his last live performance on March 2, 2023, in Truro, Nova Scotia.
Personal Life and Farewell:
Myles Goodwyn, who spent his later years in Halifax, was not only a musical virtuoso but also a family man. His battle with health issues, including a near-fatal incident in 2008, shaped his later years. On December 3, 2023, at the age of 75, Myles Goodwyn bid adieu to the world in Halifax.
Legacy and Fan Tributes:
Online, fans poured out their heartfelt tributes, reminiscing about the impact April Wine had on their lives. From unforgettable concerts to the timeless soundtrack that shaped their youth, the sentiment was unanimous — Myles Goodwyn’s legacy as a Canadian treasure and rock icon will endure.
As we remember Myles Goodwyn, let’s celebrate the enduring spirit of his music, a soundtrack that resonated across generations. May his melodies continue to echo through the annals of Canadian rock, a fitting tribute to a man who dedicated his life to the art of sound.
Rest in peace, Myles Goodwyn. Your music lives on.
I’m Drew, the founder and editor of Front of the Stage. I have a strong love for music and photography, which started at a very young age. There’s just something I love about experiencing live music and capturing memories that will last a lifetime, and that’s how Front of the Stage came to be.
