Donovan Woods

Donovan Woods is a Canadian singer-songwriter, who is equally at home in pop, folk, and country genres. On his latest album, Big Hurt Boy, the acclaimed artist is able to laugh at his personal failures. “I write about them again and again, just hoping people will still be interested,” said Woods. “So the title is poking fun of myself, that I’m theoretically this big sad guy who keeps getting dumped and writing songs about it.”

In this new EP, released in 2022, Woods’ voice is sweet and the instrumentals leave room for it to shine. “These are smaller, less polished songs than the ones I’ve been putting out recently,” said Woods. This stripped-back approach makes for an engaging performance that tugs at the heartstrings. 

Before this latest album, Woods was known for multi-dimensional sonic landscapes, lush harmonies, and electronic textures that brought his classic songwriting style to life. In 2019 he was awarded the JUNO Award for Contemporary Roots Album for Both Ways, which has now surpassed 210 million streams. For an artist as prolific and respected as Woods, continued evolution is necessary, and the Big Hurt Boy era shows listeners a softer side. His songs are honest and relatable; details may differ, but listeners are sure to hear their own stories in Woods’s voice.

Opening for Donovan Woods is Newfoundland singer-songwriter Kellie Loder. Seen on Canada’s Got Talent, there is something truly captivating about this JUNO award nominee. Their poignant and timely lyrics are set against magical melodies. Anyone who has heard Loder or watched them perform knows one thing is certain: they’re a towering talent about to explode on the world stage.