Chantal Kreviazuk is reclaiming her most famous hits for other artists
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In this compelling episode of Q with Tom Power, acclaimed Winnipeg-born singer-songwriter Chantal Kreviazuk reflects on her remarkable journey from a childhood immersed in music at her grandparents' kitchen gatherings to becoming one of Canada's most influential songwriters. The conversation traces her early life, her profound connection to the piano as a sanctuary, and the pivotal moment when a friend secretly sent her demo of 'Surrounded' to Sony, launching her career. Kreviazuk shares intimate stories about writing deeply personal songs like 'Wayne' and 'Surrounded,' while also revealing her evolution into a sought-after songwriter for global stars including Avril Lavigne, Gwen Stefani, Drake, and Kendrick Lamar. She discusses the emotional complexity behind her pop hits, the bittersweet nature of seeing her songs become massive hits for others, and her decision to reclaim these songs by performing them herself—symbolizing a powerful act of artistic ownership. The episode culminates in a poignant moment where she performs 'Happy For You,' a song she believes should have been on Kendrick Lamar’s 'To Pimp a Butterfly,' underscoring her belief in the enduring emotional truth of her music.
Reclaiming your songs is an act of artistic sovereignty—especially when they've become hits for others.
Personal, vulnerable songwriting rooted in early family music traditions can evolve into global pop success.
The emotional depth in even the most catchy pop songs comes from a place of pain, hope, and comfort.
Collaborating with legends like Drake and Kendrick Lamar requires both creative courage and emotional resilience.
Songwriters must become their own vehicle—writing, singing, and performing their own work to stay true to their art.
…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus
Introduction: A Revisit to a Canadian Music Icon
Garby Bailey introduces the episode, revisiting a powerful conversation with Chantal Kreviazuk, one of Canada’s most defining voices in music, setting the stage for a deep dive into her life and career.
Roots in Winnipeg: Music as Family and Sanctuary
“I've never ever had to feel lonely. Like I've never had to feel alone because I had somewhere to go.”
The Breakthrough: 'Surrounded' and the Accidental Launch
“I just made that up on the spot for Jill. Lyrically too? Everything. It was done. Everything just popped out for Jill.”
From Artist to Songwriter: Writing for Avril Lavigne, Drake, and Kendrick Lamar
“I was obsessed with that song. I was very, very—it was the first song they recorded for Take Care.”
Reclaiming Her Songs: The Emotional Journey of Ownership
“I can buy my own flowers. Like, you know, respectfully. It's just a sea, right? That world of, you know... It's just like a needle in a haystack for somebody.”
“I can buy my own flowers. Like, you know, respectfully. It's just a sea, right? That world of, you know... It's just like a needle in a haystack for somebody.”
“You have to be your own vehicle. You have to fall on your own sword. You have to get out there and like you don't think you have a great voice. If you can write a melody and sing it, get good and go and sing your own song.”
“I've never ever had to feel lonely. Like I've never had to feel alone because I had somewhere to go.”
Host
Guest
Chantal Kreviazuk
person
Tom Power
person
Garby Bailey
person
Avril Lavigne
person
Drake
person
Kendrick Lamar
person
Sony
organization
CBC
organization
Kelly Clarkson
person
Gwen Stefani
person
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