Edie and Don at Granville Island

Singer-songwriter Don McLeod is recognized as a creative genius and he is a very special part of what Edie Hats is all about.  His songs have been made famous by some amazing performers, but when he performs his own music, just him and his guitar, his soulful gritty voice is immensely moving.

Don McLeod started writing poetry in elementary school but because he was a “jock” he was always very secretive about his talent.  In 1992, he suffered an accident that severely limited his mobility.  He had been an athlete and the boredom of recovery was almost unendurable.  He began to write.  As he gradually learned to walk again, he started writing songs -- they just came to him, he says, and he was inspired to keep writing long after he had healed.

Don performs Cowboys and Cadillacs at Edie Hats.

Now he is the co-creator of a company called the School Alliance of Student Songwriters (SASS).  He teaches the art of songwriting to kids in elementary, secondary and high schools, and even to students at universities.  His work inspires his students and helps to engage their creativity in ways that might otherwise have been closed to them.

Edie says that when she met Don, his insight and clarity were inspirational. “Our brains connect on different levels at the same time” she says. “It’s as though Don has the electrical energy necessary to power me as an instrument and together we generate magic in the form of creativity.”

Don McLeod and Edie Orenstein talk about songwriting, success and dreams.

They have discovered a special creative connection and mutually support and inspire each other.  Don performs at Edie Hats, and as a member of the Juno Award committee, he connects her with other wonderful performers.  Edie Hats has donated time and resources to the SASS, offering financial support and public exposure.  They both recognize the power and potential of following their dreams.

Don’s advice: If you have a dream, pursue it, no matter how silly it seems. “Don’t stop your dreams”.

http://www.myspace.com/donmcleodmusic

Tags: cowboys and cadillacs, creativity, don mcleod, dreams, Edie Hats, Granville Island, performance, sass, School Alliance of Student Songwriters, songwriters, songwriting