Hanson, Wynne

Websites:  No
Origin: Calgary, Alberta, 🇨🇦
Biography:

Wynn Hansen: The Road Musician
Genres: Cabaret, Nightclub, Country-Rock
Active Years: Late 1960s–1970s

Key Highlights
Hosted the Calgary kids' variety show Wynn’s Pad in the late 1960s.
Released his only album, Road Musician, circa 1977.
A respected cabaret and nightclub musician across Canada.

Career Overview
Wynn Hansen was a prominent figure in Calgary’s music and entertainment scene. In the late 1960s, he hosted the kids' variety TV show Wynn’s Pad, which showcased his versatility and charisma. By night, he performed as a cabaret musician, earning a loyal following with his rich baritone voice and engaging stage presence.

In the mid-1970s, Wynn ventured into recording, resulting in his only album, Road Musician. Produced at Damon Sound Studios in Edmonton by Gerry McDonall, the album offered an authentic snapshot of a nightclub musician’s repertoire during that era. The title track, "Road Musician", reflects Wynn’s life on the road, capturing the challenges and romance of touring as an independent artist.

Musical Style and Legacy
Wynn’s deep baritone voice and emotional delivery brought a unique charm to his performances. The album Road Musician features original songs like the title track and covers of classics such as Murray McLauchlan’s "Farmer’s Song" and Paul Anka’s "My Way". These tracks showcase his ability to reinterpret diverse material with sincerity and style.

Critics and fans have noted his knack for evoking the era’s cabaret and nightclub vibe, blending elements of country, rock, and storytelling ballads. Tracks like "Dirty Old Man", written by Bob Rizuka, display Wynn's flair for blending humor and poignancy.

Personal Reflections
The album's liner notes from executive producer JT Josvanger highlight the year-long effort and dedication that went into creating Road Musician. It was a labor of love involving top Canadian musicians like Maurice Marshall (guitar), Jerry Rauw (bass), and Al Wilson (piano).

Wynn Hansen’s Road Musician remains a time capsule of Canada’s cabaret music scene, celebrated by collectors and enthusiasts of vintage Canadian music. While his professional recording career was brief, his contributions capture the essence of a hardworking musician navigating the vibrant yet challenging world of cabaret and nightclub performance.