by Runs June 9-13th.
Jim Dorie lived and worked in Fort McMurray from 1977 to 2006. He now resides in Nova Scotia. Like many of his brethren, Jim came here to work in the plants; employed by Syncrude in a variety of positions mostly on new construction projects and maintenance shutdowns.” Jim was more than willing to discuss how life in Alberta, Fort McMurray in particular, influenced him as an artist.
The mark of a truly good singer songwriter is the difficulty presented when one tries to find a stereotype to place him in. Jim Dorie, like many other great artists is not a man to be hammered into place.
Jim Dorie sings about his life and relationships to tell stories that are honest and compelling. After a long industrial career, and after raising and educating three children, it was time for Jim to do something that he had dreamed about for years; become a songwriter. In the last four years, Jim has released three albums of original songs and has performed countless concerts. His first album, “Something Happened” was produced by Dave Gunning, a friend and frequent co-writing partner. His second CD, “Ghosts of Pictou County”, was produced by award-winning musician, JP Cormier. His most recent release is titled “Drop Forge.”
Mike Sadava, from Penguin Eggs, stated that “Jim Dorie waited until middle age to start writing songs, now he writes ’em like he’s been doing it for decades.” Drop Forge continues in this tradition with stories about local history, work and relationships. The album was produced by Dave Gunning who also plays on the CD along with Ray Legere, Darren McMullen, and Thom Swift.
Jim strives to create songs that are as visually compelling as they are melodically pleasing. His wife has stated that “If there was an Oscar for songs that played out in the listener’s mind like a movie with a great sound track, Jim would be a contender.”
“Jim Dorie’s songs have fresh lyrics and rootsy melodies that quickly become very memorable. “I’m a fan and I’m looking forward to writing with him again.”
“Over the years, as a musician and producer I have heard a lot of music. My attention is caught when songs have integrity, good stories, strong melodies. Jim Dorie’s songs have all three, but also something more. As a balladeer, Jim is telling us things he knows about life and about the people around him. There are only a few other artists who do this. Songwriters like Stan Rogers, Corb Lund and John Prine come to mind. Like them, Jim tells the truth in his songs. Songs from real life. What a great gift!”
His songs, which are real stories about real people and real events. His genuine charm, humour and insight are found both through his song, and his performance.”
