Short Summary
Sarah McLachlan is a renowned Canadian singer-songwriter and musician, celebrated for her emotive vocal style and poignant lyrics. She gained international fame with her multi-platinum album "Surfacing," which included hit singles like "Angel" and "Building a Mystery." In addition to her successful music career, she is also known for founding the Lilith Fair tour, a concert series that showcased female artists. Her contributions to music and advocacy for women's rights have left a lasting impact on both the industry and her global audience.
Early Life & Education
Born on January 28, 1968, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Sarah McLachlan was adopted by an American couple. From an early age, she demonstrated a keen interest in music, beginning her studies with classical piano, guitar, and voice lessons. She attended Queen Elizabeth High School, where she first gained attention for her musical talents. Her education continued at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design, though she eventually left to pursue her burgeoning music career. Her early influences included a range of artists, from classical composers to contemporary pop and folk musicians.
Career Highlights
Sarah McLachlan's career took off in the late 1980s after she signed with Nettwerk, a Vancouver-based independent record label. Her debut album, "Touch," released in 1988, was well-received, but it was her 1993 album, "Fumbling Towards Ecstasy," that established her as a major artist. Her 1997 album, "Surfacing," catapulted her to international fame, earning her two Grammy Awards. In the late 1990s, she founded the Lilith Fair, a groundbreaking music festival that celebrated female musicians, further cementing her status as a leading figure in the music industry.
Major Achievements
- Won three Grammy Awards for her contributions to music.
- Founded the Lilith Fair, promoting female artists and raising over $10 million for women's charities.
- Released several multi-platinum albums, including "Surfacing" and "Fumbling Towards Ecstasy."
- Inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 2017.
Famous Quotes
- "Happiness is like a cloud, if you stare at it long enough, it evaporates."
- "We are all capable of so much more than we think we are."
Interesting Facts
- Sarah McLachlan is also an accomplished philanthropist, having established the Sarah McLachlan School of Music for underserved youth.
- She has sold over 40 million albums worldwide.
- Her emotional ballad "Angel" was inspired by the heroin overdose death of Smashing Pumpkins keyboardist Jonathan Melvoin.
Legacy / Influence
Sarah McLachlan's influence extends beyond her musical achievements to her advocacy for women's rights and philanthropy. Through the Lilith Fair, she opened doors for female artists in a male-dominated industry, and her charitable efforts have supported education and empowerment initiatives. Her emotive songwriting and vocal performances continue to inspire both listeners and aspiring musicians worldwide.
FAQ
Q: Why is Sarah McLachlan famous?
A: She is famous for her successful music career, including hits like "Angel," and for founding the Lilith Fair tour.
Q: What is the Lilith Fair?
A: The Lilith Fair was a concert tour founded by Sarah McLachlan that celebrated female musicians and raised funds for women's charities.
Q: How many albums has she sold?
A: Sarah McLachlan has sold over 40 million albums worldwide.
