Edwards, Cliff

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Origin: Montréal, Québec - Kingston, Ontario, 🇨🇦
Biography:

Cliff Edwards is a cornerstone figure in Canadian popular music, best known as the lead vocalist of the internationally successful group The Bells. Born in Montreal, Quebec, Edwards grew up immersed in music, forming his first band, The Strata-Cats, while still in high school. Early on, his blend of country, rockabilly, and pop sensibilities earned him a devoted following in Quebec’s vibrant club scene.

In the early 1960s, he fronted The Counts Four and later hosted Hurtin’ Songs, a local CFCF television program that spotlighted emerging country and folk talent. His younger brother, Brian Edwards—who later fronted the psychedelic band Mashmakhan—also featured on the show.

Cliff’s career took a major leap in 1965 when he co-founded The Five Bells alongside pianist Frank Mills and sisters Ann and Jacki Ralph. The group, soon renamed The Bells, became one of Canada’s most beloved soft rock acts. With gold and platinum hits like “Fly Little White Dove Fly,” “Moody Manitoba Morning,” and the million-selling ballad “Stay Awhile,” Edwards’ emotive lead vocals helped define the sound of early 1970s Canadian pop. “Stay Awhile” alone sold over two million copies worldwide and remains a defining anthem of the era.

After the group’s dissolution, Edwards relocated from Montreal to Kingston, Ontario, where he shifted his focus to television production and community arts. He worked at CKWS-TV in Kingston as a set designer and camera operator, and later created the children’s program The Corner Shop. Active in the local arts scene, he also organized regional music and arts festivals such as the Sculpture Park Folk & Arts Festival and "Jammin’ in the Islands" in nearby Gananoque.

Throughout his career, Cliff Edwards has remained a versatile and passionate contributor to Canada’s cultural life—as a singer, songwriter, producer, and community builder. His legacy is etched not only in platinum records but in the creative vitality he has brought to every stage of his life.
-Robert Williston