Lennie Gallant

Lennie Gallant, born in Rustico, Prince Edward Island, is a Member of the Order of Canada and one of Atlantic Canada's most celebrated singer-songwriters, known for his heartfelt storytelling and connection to his Acadian heritage. The eldest of six children, Gallant grew up in a small apartment above his grandfather's grocery store in Rustico. Despite having three Francophone grandparents in Acadian-populated PEI, there was no French school in Rustico by the time he was a student, so he spoke no English as a child but later pursued the language of his Acadian roots. He received his first guitar at age 13, inspired by his mother who played piano by ear, and his parents who participated in musical comedy shows to raise money for families in need. Gallant has released fifteen albums of original songs, winning numerous awards and nominations from the JUNOs, Les Prix Éloizes, and the ECMAs. His song Peter's Dream was inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, cementing his status as one of Canada's premier songwriters. Canadian astronaut Julie Payette chose his album for her 16-day mission, and in a special ceremony, presented Gallant with his CD which orbited Earth on the International Space Station 248 times. Together with partner Patricia Richard, Gallant also records and performs as the popular Francophone duo Sirène et Matelot, achieving strong radio play and chart success in francophone circuits. A true Maritime treasure, Gallant continues to celebrate Island life, Acadian culture, and universal human experiences through his evocative music.

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