It has been both an honour and a pleasure for me to have sung Hank’s songs for more than 20 years. He writes songs that are unique, in both English and French with lovely interesting chord progressions, that are so much fun to add harmony to. His lyrics are well crafted and varied in subjects from serious events like local tragedies to fun tongue and cheek songs that are funny and entertaining.
I like all of Hank’s songs but some stand out. I remember the first time I heard the words to “If I Told You So” My reaction was “wow, thats a powerful song!” Another favourite of mine is “Be What You Want To Be”. It has a great message and simple broken chords make the song pleasing to listen to.
Hank is gracious with his original music. He had one song called Canada’s Ocean Playground arranged in 4 parts for Seaside A Cappella to learn during their summer sing program. I am fortunate to sing with that group and stood proud when we sang it at Province House in NS, in Verona NY, and Killarney Ireland.
I have sung harmony on many of Hank’s songs and I consider it to be a labour of love. I wait in anticipation for his next new song to be written.
Janet Rae
Vocalist with Collage and Seaside A Cappella
Hank Middleton is a delight to work with. Much of his music reflects the complexities of Nova Scotia. I particularly like his Acadian/Cajun upbeat material. Hard not to want to dance to them!
Dawn Harwood-Jones
Producer and Musician, Nova Scotia
Hank has the ability to tell a good story in many of his songs. He uses a variety of different genres. ie. Blues, jazz, country, celtic, acadian, folk, comedic.
I like any of the songs in”Glimpses” – in particular. ‘Romantic Life of Fisherman’, Bluenose”, Catch the Wind & “Optimistic Tune.” For the stage – I liked ‘Sunshine’. I have performed many of Hank’s songs including lead vocal on “Bluenose Catch the Wind” and “the Leprauchaun”
Jon Allen, director, writer, producer and President of South Shore Player
Hank – I am happy to say that I am truly a dedicated fan of your incredible music. From the time I became acquainted with our music, by attending your shows and performances I have been awed by your talent.
I am most especially honoured to have my own chorus proudly performing one of your songs – my very favourite – “Canada’s Ocean Playground”. I loved this song from the moment I heard it on the show of the same name. Since then we have performed it at many of our performances including Province House for the Premier and the Legislative Assembly, and most recently in, the evening of winning our International championship. At each and every performance we always announce, with a great deal of pride, that this song was gifted to us by you. We are ever grateful for sharing your music with us.
Judy Comeau, Music Director & Founder
SEASIDE A CAPPELLA; 2025 International International Gold Medal Champions; Irish Association of Barbershop Singing (IABS);
KALEIDOSCOPE; Mixed Barbershop Ensemble
I’ve had the privilege of knowing Hank for a few years now, and his songwriting is truly a gift! With over 60 years of playing and writing music, he carries a lifetime of stories into every song he writes. His catalogue of tunes (nearly a mile long!) is truly amazing, and I’ve been lucky enough to be able to add a few to my own set lists. Hank has one of those natural gifts of turning thoughts and stories into song. I could never recommend somebody more than Hank!
I have performed “She Had Her Reasons” which iis my favourite as well as “Walk Away”, “Beating My Head Against The Wall” and “Follow Your Dream”
In addition to the songs above I enjoy, “Canada’s Ocean Playground” “Seventeen Again (LOVE this one)” and “I Ain’t Gonna Worry”
Jessica Russell, Country Recording Artist
I have known Hank Middleton for decades and have great respect for his musicianship as both a guitarist and songwriter. His writing is influenced by the world around him – nature, world events, history (both past and present), his heritage, and life experiences, both his and those of others. Give him an idea and he can come up with a song.
One of the most impressive things about Hank is his desire and willingness to share his music with those around him, often combining his songs with mini history lessons, especially about the Acadians and Lunenburg County. We have often shared these in classrooms and other small venues. He is very supportive of fellow musicians, often accompanying them with his guitar and harmonies. He is eager to share his talents for fundraising activities, such as the Knights of Columbus, Food Bank, local theatre, and other worthy causes too numerous to mention.
I have been privileged to perform some of his music in live venues and on most of his recordings – some of my my favourites being “If I Told You So” (about the plight of Canadian farmers), “Mistress to the Sea” (describing the effect of fishing on the wives of the fishermen), “My Highland Home” (sadness and yearning at leaving his beloved Cape Breton), “C’est la Vie en Acadie” (talking about his Acadian roots), and too many more to mention. Suffice it to say, Hank possesses the soul of a poet.
Sharon Jackson. Vocalist with Collage
“Prolific” is a word often used to describe singers, songwriters, composers, creators, lyricists, storytellers and the like, but perhaps rarely as appropriate as in relation to Hank Middleton’s seemingly constant stream of excellent songs over the years: A collection over 60 years affectionately known as “Middletunes”.
Hank’s songwriting ability is perhaps only eclipsed by his generous and selfless gifts of time and talent to fellow musicians: donating his songs and time, co-writing, arranging, recording, accompaniment and mentorship. And for the very broad community: There is rarely a cause or a fundraiser that Hank is not an energetic part of organizing, promoting, writing songs and scripts, hosting, performing, backing up others, cheerleading, etc.
Over nearly twenty years, it has been an honour for me to work with Hank on a large number of occasions, and to perform many of his songs in plays, productions, concerts, gigs and frequent events, as well as contributing lead vocals to two of my favourite tracks; “Crazy With a Gun” and “Old Boys” (and their musical toys) on his
Middletunes II: Messages album.
It would be difficult – and a disservice to Hank’s vast and varied anthology – to try to pick just one song that I would consider a favourite, but a shortlist would include the aforementioned, as well as; “Canada’s Ocean Playground”, “Play Those Old Songs Again”, the comedic “Rum” and “I Won’t Go Hunting”, plus the entire fun Acadien collection!
Stewart Franck
bassist. vocalist and frontman for Gamechanger; bassist and vocalist with Cut, Spilt and Delivered and the Lost in the 60’s Show
I am delighted to recommend Hank Middleton as an exceptional songwriter, musician and singer. Hank is very creative, talented, versatile, and professional. He is an extraordinarily prolific songwriter, with over 500 original songs spanning multiple genres—including French chansons, gospel, jazz, country, ballads, folk, and contemporary styles. His depth of experience and artistic sensitivity shine through in every project he undertakes.
Working with Hank has been both inspiring and deeply rewarding. He has an intuitive ability to tailor music to an artist’s strengths, and he consistently brings out the very best in the performers he collaborates with. His commitment to excellence, musical versatility and deep understanding of artistic expression make him an invaluable partner for any performance or production.
I have had the joy of working with Hank in a variety of musical settings, including live concerts, themed productions, and studio sessions. His ability to organize, direct, and elevate an event is matched only by his supportive and collaborative spirit. Hank consistently creates an atmosphere where performers feel confident, appreciated, and creatively inspired.
Additional Performance Experience With Hank
In addition to performing his original music, I have also had the wonderful opportunity to join Hank in musical shows celebrating the iconic hits of the 1950s, 60s, and 70s. These productions were filled with energy, nostalgia, and joy, and Hank’s leadership, musical direction, and deep knowledge of the era helped bring those classic songs to life. Performing these shows with him has been an absolute delight and further showcases his versatility as both a producer and performer. We have a 1950’s show scheduled for March, 2026 in Chester, NS.
• “Play Those old Songs Again”
• “His Light Shines Down on Me” – a beautiful gospel selection that demonstrated God’s eternal presence in life.
• “The Hands of God” – another powerful gospel selection that resonates deeply with audiences.
• “What Is Love” – a timeless, tender love song showcasing Hank’s lyrical elegance.
• “Canada’s Ocean Playground” – his heartfelt tribute to Nova Scotia’s beauty and spirit.
Each of these pieces reflects his gift for melody, emotion, and meaningful storytelling. These songs remain among my favourites and highlight Hank’s extraordinary ability to write music that connects with listeners of all ages.
Patricia Watson,
Vocalist Patricia Watson Trio
It is my pleasure to write my complete support for Hank Middleton. We have been musical friends for a lot of years and I have used his songs in a variety of both performances and recording. Hank has a unique catalogue of great songs from a variety of genres. His music seems to connect with many types of audiences and I have enjoyed including his songs along with my own original numbers as I often feel his words mirror some of my thoughts. Songs like “A Letter to a Friend” and “Fair and Blessed Isle” have spoken to me and I have used them in videos on my own YouTube channel. I had the pleasure of producing a Canada Day video using another of his songs, “From Sea to Sea to Sea” where our entire family group participated. I have been in the audience at many performers’ events and his songs have been used and the audience enjoyed them completely. He has written songs of current happenings including a favourite of mine, “Nova Scotia Strong.” Hank has a huge list of songs that were written on such a wide group of topics that it is easy to find one to fit the moment. I have spent the last 20 years performing and recording other artists and Hank has been a pleasure to have in the studio recording his variety of music for live theatre musicals. I would recommend his music and his songwriting any day of the week. I know his work will fit the needs of almost anyone who wants a genuine and talented individual.
Timothy Clark – Bridgewater, Nova Scotia
Vocalist, Band Leader, Recording Engineer
Singing Hanks tunes is a singers dream—the strong melody lines and thoughtful lyrics are what we all aspire to. When you see a Hank tune coming up in the set you look forward to the opportunity to perform it. Each composition tells it’s own story; like his song Pouring Rain, you can hear the couple talking through the feelings, or Shining Down on Me when one partner is expressing their gratitude with so much joy and the words are truly supported by perfect melody and chord voicings.
Working with Hank is always a positive experience, he is kind and supportive to all the musicians he works with. He listens and brings years of experience, without the ego.
Though I am partial to his jazz and blues influenced material— You Can’t Live Life Over Again, Rainy Afternoon, Calm Before the Storm, I Ain’t Gonna Worry, I continue to be astounded that he can and does, write anything!
Cynthia Myers, vocalist, actress
Cynthia Myers Trio
Hank’s original songs that we have performed together were always fun to play. In listening to them, his song writing creativity shines through in the dynamics of the up beat rhythmic grooves and beautiful melodies in the ballads of his different songs. He has the ability to tell a story through his songs, many which reflect a pride in the diversity of geography and culture of Canada.
Hank is also skilled at taking the script of live theatre stories and crafting music and lyrics around the narrative to enliven different scenes.
Most recently, I played the following of Hank’s songs in a live production of Disney’s ‘Snow White’:
• Celtic Egyptian •I Can’t Do the Hit •Secret Celebration •Sunshine Morning
•Utter and Total Disaster •On This Day •Reflections and Recollections
I really like the following:
• I Can’t Do the Hit • Secret Celebration • On This Day • Reflections and Recollections
Ronald Morrison
Drummer, South Shore Players, Lost in the 60’s Show
Hanks songs are full of local history and colour that invoke the spirit of our community. Always a pleasure to play them.
I have played Down In Lunenburg, She Had Her Reasons, Just Walk Away, Play Those Old Songs Again, Romantic Life Of The Fisherman, Home, Shame On Two, Old Boys, Crazy With A Gun
Some of my favourites are: Beautiful South Shore, Canadas Ocean Playground, Highland Home, Time Flies, Pouring Rain
Dylan Haines
Keyboardist with Game Changers, Usual Suspects, Lost in the 60’s Showband
To whom it may concern,
I first met Hank Middleton in 1990. I owned the Lunenburg Dinner Theatre and had a vision to perform musical productions about local history. Since Hank was a history teacher and a songwriter he seemed the perfect fit. The first production “The Run for Rum” started our 36 years of collaboration. For this production I needed 14 songs and I gave Hank the themes for each song. Every night Hank would call me on the telephone at 10 pm (the days before cell phones) and sing and play me a song he had written that evening. He composed 14 songs in 14 days. Every song was amazing with a catchy tune and lyrics fitting the theme perfectly. Hank did this for me for the 5 years I ran the dinner theatre, and his music is what made it a success.
In 2001 I became the musical director of South Shore Players, a local theatre group. Every Christmas we perform a pantomime or a musical. My vision was to include some original music and create a band for the productions, so I immediately called Hank Middleton for his skilled guitar playing for the band and to write original music. I would give him the theme, and he again wrote beautiful music with catchy tunes and the lyrics fitting the theme perfectly. Sometimes I would get Hank to write music for the entire production such as in 2024 for “The Prince and the Golden Egg” Hank has been involved in over 20 productions for South Shore Players.
In 2021 Hank’s original production “Canada’s Ocean Playground” was our Christmas production in 2021. I was honoured to be music director for this production about the local cultures and traditions of the people of Nova Scotia. The music is brilliant and we had skilled vocalists to perform each piece. The song “Canada’s Ocean Playground” is performed by choirs all over Nova Scotia, including the award-winning Seaside A Capella.
Hank has written over 100 songs for me. He has a gift. His lyrics are so creative and relevant, and his songs have catchy tunes. It never ceases to amaze me how quickly he can write a brilliant song. I love all the songs but here are 12 of my favorites.
• Canada’s Ocean Playground • Hopeful • Home • Time Flies • Mistress of the Sea • Bluenose Catch the Wind
• Sunshine Morning • Secret Celebration • Run for Rum • You Can’t Live Life Over Again • On This Day • Down in Lunenburg
Sincerely,
Darlene Sanford,
Former Owner of Lunenburg Dinner Theatre
Music Director, South Shore Players
My name is Ken MacPherson, a recording and performing musician originally from the highlands of Cape Breton, now living on the south shore. I met Hank Middleton at one of his singer-songwriter shows several years ago and was immediately impressed by his lyrics and musical talent on stage. Since that winter night, Hank has not only become my music mentor but also a great friend.
So far, Hank and I have recorded 15 songs together—six already released, with nine more scheduled for early spring 2026.
First, I’d like to highlight Hank’s musical expertise. His knack for listening to another artist’s song and crafting a memorable “hook” is remarkable; he truly brings music to life. Hank continually encourages me to push beyond my comfort zone to discover new sounds. His deep understanding of the guitar fretboard and the interplay between notes, chords, and melodies is unmatched. The way he conveys this knowledge and demonstrates their relationships has made me a better songwriter, guitarist, and vocalist. When composing, Hank expertly weaves breaks, bridges, solos, and tempo changes together, preserving the essence of the music.
When it comes to songwriting, Hank excels as well. We’ve worked on songs written individually and together, sometimes starting with lyrics and building a melody, other times beginning with a melody and adding lyrics, or even constructing a song around a single tagline. Hank fosters an environment where artists can begin the songwriting process in any form. Collaborating with him is always enjoyable, and being able to discuss, create, disagree, and refine ideas has been invaluable to me as a developing songwriter. What stands out most about Hank’s writing—whether in country, blues, jazz, francophone, Celtic, or musical genres—is his ability to make each song relatable to listeners. He finds those universal threads that help songs become memorable and last through time; it is truly an art, and he’s a masterful artist.
A few weeks ago, Hank asked what my favourite song of his was. Without hesitation, I said “Salt Water Cowboy,” a recent work about the east coast, fishing communities, and the dream of being a cowboy. I did note that he has so many great songs it’s tough to choose just one. Still, I believe Hank’s writing is stronger than ever, and I’m thrilled that we’ve recorded this song.
Here are some songs written by Hank or co-written with Hank that are I have released or coming soon:
· If You Don’t Have Love – Written by Hank Middleton (released)
· Salt Water Cowboy – Written by Hank Middleton (coming soon)
· East Coast Stomp – Written by Hank Middleton (coming soon)
· My Way or The HWY – Co-written by Hank Middleton & Ken MacPherson (coming soon)
I am truly grateful for all that Hank shares from his 60+ years of incredible music across various genres. If you ever get the chance to work with this wonderful gentleman, you won’t be disappointed.
Ken MacPherson, country and pop artist