Jim Moffatt

Jim Moffatt – Bio

Originally from Chatham, Ontario, Jim Moffatt has wanderlust coursing through his veins, given his extensive travels and various hometowns over the years. His restless heart has met with much in the way of life experiences, and has no doubt helped to shape him as a folk artist. Whether addressing the blues, pop, rock or folk, his music and lyrics have grown as a result, and along the way he’s garnered plenty of attention and accolades for his skilled musical efforts.
A man of character and principles, Jim has tapped several influences in order to perfect his brand of folk music, including such praiseworthy names as Harry Chapin, Chris De Berg, John Prine, and James Taylor. He has honed his craft as part of bands such as Hero, Panic, and the award-winning Calgary-based ensemble “Bow River Lumber Company”, in addition to performing as a solo act. On his road of destiny, he’s had the distinct honour of opening shows for the late Utah Phillips, the labor organizer/folk singer known as "Golden Voice of the Great Southwest", as well as Idaho-based singer-songwriter Rosalie Sorrells, whose recording has spanned six decades and won the respect of Hunter S. Thompson. Clearly Jim Moffat keeps some respectable company, with long histories of making their mark as folk artists.
But it isn’t luck that has put Jim among these prominent musicians – its his talent and ability to connect with his audience. As a folk festival veteran, he has rocked stages and audiences coast to coast, and has also been instrumental behind the scenes with the creation of Victoria B.C.’s songwriters’ group, “Art of the Song”. All the while he’s been charging up ReverbNation’s folk listings chart, as #2 in Victoria, BC, #25 nationally, and #296 globally. That’s more than impressive for a songwriter who began actively pursuing rankings less than a year ago.

On stage, Jim can be seen playing as a duo with Mike Sampson, creating a sound they like to refer to as “Jim Croce meets Godzilla”. It’s beautiful guitar work peppered with superb vocals, and just a touch of the monster to keep things interesting. However, when he plays solo, Jim Moffatt truly shines.

His debut CD release of “Live at Crystal Gardens” includes input from a musician whose credentials are exceeded only by his skill - the accomplished and multi-faceted Scott Parsons, whose participation in the release is a testament to its significance. Featuring songs of hope, dispair, love and disillusionment, the album is straight from the heart and contains something for everyone.

Whether you’re a folk or blues fan, or simply a fan of good music, Moffatt is a man you don’t want to miss.

Taxi Interview December 14, 2009

Q: Where did you grow up?

A: In South Western Ontario on Lake St Clair in a little village called Lighthouse Cove is the short answer. The longer answer to that would take lots of space and a great bottle of Scotch.

Q: What made you realize that music was your path?

A: I am adopted and my mom passed away when I was seven. My dad didn’t seem to want me much and remarried to a woman who didn't want me at all. They would sit upstairs getting drunk and I would hide in the basement trying to stay out to the way and play and sing on an old guitar. Music was my escape then. Music been my salvation ever sense.

Q: How would you describe the music that you typically create?

A: I think of my music as stories with sound. My songs are pictures with the colours of notes instead of oils. I stir words and phrases and scales instead of turpentine, water and chemicals .
I paint with emotion and sound to convey an image of what ever I am trying to create. A soundscape of experiences that I have had or we all wish we had or didn’t have for that matter.

Q: Who are your biggest musical influences?

A: Too, too many. James Taylor, Harry Chapin, Stan Rogers to name a few. Oh and don't forget John Prine, Willie Nelson, Arlo Guthrie, Howling Wolf and the list goes on. I know a writer named Scott Parsons. He was a strong influence too. Check him out.

Q: What makes your music unique?

A: My style is unique only in that it is my own. In one song we could go from a soft whisper to a loud scream. I do what I need to get across the emotion, a musical picture that I am trying to express. If you listen to my songs and close your eyes for a moment I can transform you to anything from ancient times to the future in space, from loves great tenderness to the soulless breaking of a heart. Maybe even yours.

Q: Has there been one particular moment in your musical career that you're most proud of?
A: Ya ..Have a couple.
I played a folk club in Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island and it was a good gig. About a year later I was at a festival and this guy comes up with the biggest smile and a beautiful women on his arm and says "Ha you're Jim Moffatt. Let