This past year, the City of Mission Arts & Culture section commissioned 4 local musicians to write 4 songs about Mission based on the inspiration they gathered from the historic Mission Record newspaper. Not only are the songs incredible but these local musicians gained invaluable connection, recognition and opportunity that being a part of this project lended them.
Special thanks to the Mission Community Archives and the Mission Record Newspaper for their support in capturing and preserving the history and heritage that have served as a foundation for this project.
Meet the Artists
Learn about the artists who participated in the project, and see a short video interview.
Miss Shauna is a singer/songwriter, a dancer and a ballet teacher who grew up living all over Canada but found home in beautiful Mission, BC. She has spent her life dancing classical ballet and belting her heart out to the greats like Whitney Houston, Celine Dion and Alicia Keys. She’s released original music on all streaming platforms and has new music in the works ready to be released very soon!
With a passion for all things creative, Miss Shauna believes in the transformative power of art to uplift spirits and inspire change. Her music and art is more than just melodies. It is a celebration of love, resilience and life in all its facets; something to ignite hope, strength and potential in the hearts of her audience and students alike.
Hear About Miss Shauna's Inspiration
Mackenzie Widdows is a local songwriter, and Arts advocate. Hailing from Vancouver Island, and living in Mission since 2002, Mackenzie creates colorful compositions designed to emphasize the joy of living.
He has worked as an Arts & Crafts specialist at various Summer Camps and released his award-winning debut album, Mackedamia, in 2019. Currently, Mackenzie is working on his second album, Back 2 Mackedamia, while fostering community engagement through the Arts.
Hear About Mackenzie's Inspiration
Patrick Anthony's sound grew from doing household chores to the tunes of Bruce Springsteen and Tom Petty, while belting out Ritchie Valens into makeshift mics. His indigenous connection to Leq'a:mel has strongly influenced his work since he picked up the guitar at 15.
Now 38, after countless late-night open mics and coffee houses, Patrick has dug into his craft and is striving to improve as a writer, singer, and performer. His introspective yet relatable music shines in energetic live performances, telling stories of love, relationships, and growing up.
Hear About Patrick's Inspiration
Amy Van Bergen has been weaving melodies since childhood. Her musical journey began with a simple iPod voice memo, and today, her creative vault boasts over 200 original songs. From the early days of busking at local farmer’s markets, her practice has evolved to include intimate concerts showcasing her unique collection of original pieces. Amy's songwriting is deeply rooted in storytelling, with a desire to transport listeners to new perspectives and experiences. And as a young artist, she is profoundly inspired by environmentalism and social justice. These themes often find their way into her music where she demonstrates her commitment to expanding her understanding and expression through music.
