Information/Write-up
Reg Benoit: A Life in Song and Service
Born in Stephenville, Newfoundland, Reg Benoit grew up surrounded by the rich traditions of East Coast storytelling, music, and community spirit. From a young age, he absorbed the values of resilience, humility, and compassion — qualities that would later define both his music and his life’s mission.
In the 1970s, like many young Newfoundlanders, Benoit moved to Ontario in search of greater opportunity. Settling in the Peterborough area, he built a steady career in music while maintaining a day job to support his family. True to his roots, Reg never abandoned the small-town values instilled in him back home. Instead, he carried them into every performance, recording, and act of kindness.
Throughout his early career, Reg worked behind the scenes as a versatile musician, including a notable stint backing Harry Hibbs, one of Newfoundland’s most beloved performers. Playing bass and guitar, and even serving as host of Hibbs' live shows for three and a half years, Benoit gained firsthand experience in both traditional and contemporary Canadian folk music.
In 1996, Reg Benoit released his most personal and ambitious project:
Sings a Tribute to Roy Payne, a full-length album honoring one of his greatest musical heroes, Roy Payne. Produced by Payne himself, the album included fourteen Payne compositions and one original by Benoit — “Writing Newfie Songs.” Recorded at Street Level Studios and mastered at Kinck Sound Studio, it stands as a heartfelt homage to the East Coast spirit, blending country, folk, and Newfoundland storytelling.
Tragedy struck in 1998 when Reg suffered a serious spinal cord injury at his day job, an event that forever altered the course of his life. Forced into early retirement from physical labor, Benoit turned full-time to his true passion — music and service.
Rather than withdrawing, he used his injury as a catalyst to give back to the community, performing tirelessly at seniors’ homes, hospitals, charity events, and benefit concerts. His efforts raised funds for causes including St. John’s Children’s Hospital and Sick Kids Hospital in Toronto.
Over the years, Benoit became equally respected for his humanitarian work. In 2006, he was inducted into the prestigious Pathway of Fame in Peterborough, Ontario under the Musical Entertainment category. His recognition cited not just his musical contributions, but his dedication to uplifting others through song and personal outreach.
Beyond the stage, Reg expanded his mission by becoming an ordained pastor, offering spiritual guidance to those facing hardship. He believed that where music sometimes couldn’t reach, compassion and faith could fill the void.
In later years, Reg recorded a series of independent country albums, including contributions to Nashville-based KMA Records, where he showcased both classic country styles and original songs like “You’ve Got Me Back In Love” and “Whiskey Into Water.” Despite physical limitations, his voice retained the warmth and sincerity that had earned him admiration early in his career.
Today, Reg Benoit stands as a symbol of perseverance, compassion, and authenticity.
His journey — from small-town Newfoundland to the stages and communities of Ontario — reflects a life where music was never just a career, but a calling. A singer, a songwriter, a pastor, and a community champion, Benoit’s work reminds us that true success lies not in fame or fortune, but in the lives we touch along the way.
-Robert Williston
Reg Benoit: vocals
Dennis Conn: guitars
Derek Pilgrimguitars
Dennis Conn: bass
Carson Willis: accordion
All songs written by Roy Payne, except "Writing Newfie Songs" (written by Reg Benoit)
Produced, arranged & engineered by Roy Payne at Street Level Studios
Mixed by Roy Payne & A. MacDonald
Sequencer programs by Derek Pilgrim and A. MacDonald
Mastered at Kinck Sound Studio
Artist Message:
"I was born in Newfoundland and during my years growing musically, I had two favorite writer/performers from 'home.' One was Harry Hibbs. I had the privilege of working with Harry, playing back up guitar/bass on several albums and I worked as Host of his show for three and a half years.
Recording this project completed my dream. Roy Payne is the other favorite writer/performer. He was kind enough to write fourteen of the fifteen songs on this album. He sings two himself and joins me on another.
'THANK YOU ROY.' This is a tribute to you. Roy is a true Canadian."
Special thanks are given to Violet Campbell (manager), the musicians, and to God.
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