Séan McCann

Séan McCann is a founder of the iconic Canadian band Great Big Sea and a recipient of the Order of Canada for his mental health and recovery advocacy. The quartet began performing as Great Big Sea in 1993, and over its twenty-year history sold over a million and a half records worldwide, resonating with fans for its rock interpretations of traditional Newfoundland folk songs and sea shanties. In 2013, McCann announced he would leave the band at the end of that year's tour. After exiting the internationally renowned Newfoundland folk group, he publicly admitted a secret past where he used alcohol to mask the pain of sexual abuse by a priest. Sober since 2009, Séan has spent the last ten years touring the country as a musical keynote speaker and acclaimed solo concert performer. The Halifax musician and producer released his solo album Help Your Self in 2014, inspired by his journey to sobriety and healing. His album You Know I Love You (2015) was inspired by the love Séan found in sharing his story. He is his own manager, booking agent and sound technician. His fifth solo album was titled There's a Place. A recent recipient of the Order of Canada for his advocacy for those living with mental health and addiction issues, Séan released his first book One Good Reason, co-written with his wife Andrea, in April 2020. Through his music and advocacy, McCann has transformed personal tragedy into a powerful message of hope and healing for others.

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