Acclaimed Canadian musician Loreena McKennitt receives one of the highest honors in the country’s music industry this spring: induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. The live ceremony will take place on May 15, 2025, at Studio Bell in Calgary, Alberta. McKennitt joins an illustrious group of inductees that includes Alanis Morissette, Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, and Shania Twain.
A career that crosses boundaries
McKennitt is celebrated for her unique blend of Celtic-inspired music with global influences, having sold over 14 million albums worldwide. Her self-managed career is another rarity in the music industry. She explains, “I’ve built and run my career all these years with staff and independent colleagues. Some who know me well might say, ‘You’re just unmanageable!’”
Her distinctive artistry draws on history and culture, with much of her music inspired by the travels and stories of the ancient Celts. McKennitt describes her work as a form of “musical travel writing”, a unique approach that has set her apart in the global music scene.
Ties to the Pembina Valley
Despite her global success, McKennitt’s roots in the Pembina Valley remain a significant part of her story. Reflecting on her upbringing in Morden, she says, “I grew up in this small town in southern Manitoba (Morden), and it was so rich with music—whether it was music festivals, operettas, or variety nights at church. Those 17 years were extremely formative and set the stage for so many other things to come.”
She fondly recalls her time learning from local music teachers like Olga Friesen, whose choir was instrumental in shaping her musical foundation. McKennitt shares, “I was singing before I could read music, and I was singing words before I could read words.”
A celebration of Canadian music
Joining McKennitt in the 2025 induction class are Dan Hill, Ginette Reno, Glass Tiger, and Sum 41, showcasing the diverse tapestry of Canada’s music scene.
When asked about performing at the ceremony, McKennitt confirms she’ll take the stage. “They’ve asked the inductees to perform a piece, so I’ll be performing and giving a few remarks.”
Looking ahead
As McKennitt reflects on her career, she continues to prioritize live performances and sharing her music with audiences worldwide. Though recording new material has become more challenging in today’s digital landscape, McKennitt’s passion for storytelling through music remains strong.
To her fans in the Pembina Valley, McKennitt offers heartfelt gratitude, saying, “It’s a rare interview where I don’t mention that I spent my formative years in Morden. I wear that badge with great honor.”
Loreena McKennitt’s induction into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame solidifies her legacy as a trailblazer in Canadian music and an enduring inspiration to fans and artists alike.