Stephen Hardy Palmer
Full Bio (≈300 words)
Stephen Hardy Palmer is a Canadian folk roots songwriter whose music reflects a lifetime of performing, traveling, and storytelling. Born and raised in Western Canada, he began his musical journey in the 1960s playing electric guitar in high school dance halls and arena rock shows, even sharing stages with Led Zeppelin, The Who, and Eric Clapton.
In the new millennium, Stephen shifted focus to his own original and traditional folk-inspired music, releasing five albums that showcase his warm vocals and intricate guitar work.Touring coast to coast with his guitar and backpack, Stephen has earned a reputation for “spreading his musical joy wherever he goes” (Peter Pirquet).
His songs draw inspiration from Canadian landscapes and traditions, echoing the artistry of Gordon Lightfoot, Ian Tyson, and Joni Mitchell. As one reviewer put it: “Classic coffeehouse folk; taking us back to an era when Tom Paxton, Ian Anderson, and Ian & Sylvia regularly made the charts — when music was less about image and all about integrity” (Rick Dennis, Duncan BC).
Whether in an intimate house concert or on a festival stage, Stephen creates a welcoming atmosphere that connects audiences through story and song.Now based in Gatineau, Quebec, Stephen continues to write, record, and perform, carrying forward a folk tradition deeply rooted in both place and experience.
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​Medium Bio (≈150 words)
Stephen Hardy Palmer is a Canadian folk roots songwriter with over five decades of musical experience. Raised in Western Canada, he first made his mark in the 1960s electric guitar scene, opening for legendary acts including Led Zeppelin, The Who, and Eric Clapton.
In the 2000s, he turned his focus to writing and recording original and traditional folk-inspired songs, releasing five albums that reflect his storytelling style and heartfelt connection to place.
Touring from coast to coast with guitar and backpack, Stephen’s performances are warm, engaging, and steeped in Canadian tradition. As Lynne & Ian Pregitzer of R Ouse Concerts wrote, “Prairie Airs is wonderful! You have captured what we think the prairie essence is and done it with flair. It showcases your laid-back and considerable talents to great effect and is a fabulous listen.”
Now based in Gatineau, Quebec, Stephen continues to share songs that resonate widely while staying true to his prairie roots.​
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Short Bio (≈75 words)
Stephen Hardy Palmer is a Canadian folk roots songwriter who tours coast to coast “spreading his musical joy wherever he goes” (Peter Pirquet). Born in Western Canada and now based in Gatineau, Quebec, he blends original and traditional songs on 6 and 12 string guitars. Inspired by Gordon Lightfoot, Ian Tyson, and Joni Mitchell, Stephen has released five albums and brings over 50 years of musical experience to every stage, from house concerts to festivals.