Executive Council
November 20, 2015
Premier Expresses Condolences on Passing of Ron Hynes
The Honourable Paul Davis, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, today expressed his condolences to the family of the late Ron Hynes, one of Newfoundland and Labrador's most distinguished musicians and artists, who passed away on November 19.
"Ron Hynes was an extraordinary singer and songwriter who will be deeply missed. Ron Hynes' songs have become part of the fabric of Newfoundland and Labrador culture. As the 'man of a thousand songs,' he will be best remembered for his vast catalogue of work - songs that have become a reflection of who we are as a people and which stands as a testament to his remarkable talent and deep insight. On behalf of the people of the province, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, and the entire arts community, and acknowledge the incredible contribution he made to Newfoundland and Labrador."
- The Honourable Paul Davis, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
Ron Hynes was born in St. John's in 1950, and raised in Ferryland. As a founding member of the Wonderful Grand Band, Ron Hynes had a celebrated career that bridged more than four decades. His debut album, Discovery, released in 1972, was the first album composed completely original content by an artist from this province. Additionally, as a solo artist, Ron Hynes name and work have become synonymous with Newfoundland and Labrador culture. With songs such as Sonny's Dream, and Atlantic Blue, his tribute to those who died on the Ocean Ranger, his work poignantly echoed the thoughts and sentiment of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians through the decades.
Ron Hynes was a seven-time East Coast Music Awards winner and past Juno and Canadian Country Music Awards nominee. He was named Artist of the Year (1992) and was presented with the prestigious Arts Achievement Award (2004) by the Newfoundland and Labrador Arts Council.
In recognition of his original songwriting and his contribution and cultural heritage of Newfoundland and Labrador, Ron Hynes received an honorary Doctor of Letters from Memorial University in 2002. In 2006, Hynes was also honoured as the recipient of the St. John's Folk Arts Council's Lifetime Achievement Award.
- 30 -
Media contacts:
|
Heather MacLean
Director of Communications Office of the Premier 709-729-3581 heathermaclean@gov.nl.ca |
Donna Ivey
Special Assistant, Communications Office of the Premier 709-729-3551 donnaivey@gov.nl.ca |
2015 11 20 1:25 p.m.