This year, I’m once again thrilled to share my experiences from Fredericton’s Living Roots Music Festival! While last year I focused on specific artists, this time I’m offering a broader overview. I was fortunate to catch 21 different performances and even participate in 5 sets myself. The festival ran from June 4th to 8th, gracing various venues across downtown Fredericton.
Despite strong moments in previous years, the 2025 edition was far from certain. The festival faced a precarious financial situation, exacerbated by the theft of some proceeds after last year’s event. Organizer Eddie Young was understandably unsure if the 10th edition could proceed. However, his remarkable resilience and unwavering commitment to the arts triumphed, and here we are, celebrating another successful festival!
To ensure the festival’s future, some necessary changes were implemented. A few venues were dropped, and the lineup featured fewer acts. This, however, had a silver lining: less overlap between shows, allowing fans to experience more music than ever before. Crucially, the festival is now a registered non-profit organization, a move that should significantly bolster its long-term stability. This year’s headliners included the talents of Shawna Caspi, Justin Rutledge, and Ryan Cook. At just $70 for a pass granting access to every show over five days, the value is exceptional.
The festival kicked off on Wednesday, June 4th, with a single, powerful show at Dolans Pub featuring Richie Young and the Montgomery Street Band. Richie, one of the select few artists to have graced every edition of the festival, delivered a performance true to form. Armed with his guitar, harmonica, and a foot-operated bass and snare drum, his music effortlessly commands a room. His voice, rich with the timbre of a life well-lived, carries a profound soulfulness. While his distinctive attire might seem out of place on others, on Richie, it’s an authentic expression of his character.
A heartwarming surprise also awaited organizer Eddie Young at the venue. Musician Andy Du Rego, widely known as Black Suit Devil, had driven all the way from Ontario to attend. I’d been privy to this secret for a while, and it was certainly a challenge to keep under wraps! Though not originally scheduled to perform, a slot was quickly arranged for him at The Abbey on Saturday afternoon, sharing the bill with Halifax-based Rudy Pacé.
Returning to the opening night’s concert, The Montgomery Street Band, another ensemble of festival veterans, took the stage next, showcasing their masterful brand of folk. It’s easy to become captivated by the individual prowess of each band member; their collective mastery is a key reason they remain a compelling act to witness repeatedly. One can focus on a different musician or instrument each time, ensuring boredom is never on the agenda. I made a swift exit at the show’s intermission, as I had two of my own sets to prepare for at the Charlotte Street Arts Centre the following day!
Photo Credit: Marlene Colbourne (band image) / Living Roots Festival (poster) / Eddie Young (Andy Du Rego/Eddie Young image)
Ollie LeBlanc, based in Fredericton, New Brunswick, discovered his love for music in his parents' basement with a box of classic rock LPs. A lifelong fan, his fascination with music has only grown over the past three decades as a musician. Ollie has worn many hats, including bassist, producer, engineer, and photographer. As he matures, his journey has become more about contributing to the musical community and sharing its richness. What better way to give back to the medium that has given him so much!
