Four Chords and the Truth: Sylvia Tyson, Russell deCarle, Samantha Martin, Don Amero & Friends

Some nights you just can't prepare for. Thursday night in Toronto at The Dakota Tavern was one of those nights, as Four Chords and the Truth took the stage.

We've said it before, and will say it forever, the power of songs, their stories, and the people that create them is endless. And in a setting like Four Chords provides, legends like Sylvia Tyson and Russell deCarle can share the stage with acclaimed artists like Don Amero and Samantha Martin, and it becomes magical.

Host, and series creator, Andrea England introduced her February 2018 edition lineup to start the show, and played one song of her own to start the night. And from that first song, the full house was treated to some excellent song work, stories, laughs, and even a choral singalong. It was a two hour show that felt like a stopped moment in time.

The original lineup of artists that was announced for the February edition of Four Chords and the Truth was enough to have us excited for the evening. And the surprise guests (a staple of the series) were a special treat that made it all that much sweeter. However, it must be said that the chance to see a living legend in Sylvia Tyson on stage at the Dakota was more than we could ever hoped for.

Tyson, still writing, performing, and being awesome at 77. She is a member of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, and was named as a member of the Order of Canada in recognition of her career accomplishments. And on Thursday night, she took her place on stage, sang songs, told stories, and wowed us.

All of that is not to take away from the accomplishments of the other six performers we saw on Thursday night. Russell deCarle, Don Amero, Samantha Martin, and special guests Shakura S'Aida, Joe Pernice, and Joan Besen have all been recognized with award nominations, wins, and critical acclaim for their outstanding artistry.

Thank you to Andrea for having us, and thank you to all of the performers for giving us a night that we won't soon forget.

Now, check out the setlist from the show, along with the photos captured at The Dakota Tavern during Four Chords and the Truth.