As keyboardist for Kathleen Edwards’ tour for her new album Voyageur, Dan Ledwell performed on the Late Show with David Letterman stage last week.
“The most memorable thing, I suppose, was just being on a stage that has been graced by so many legends,” Dan told Island Edition about his experience.
Clad in a black t-shirt and jeans, Dan played the keyboard for the song, Change The Sheets, which aired Jan. 17 on CBS’ New York City-based TV show.
Dan, a member of In-Flight Safety, who is now based in Halifax, replaced Jim Bryson on the tour.
“It was really Jim Bryson who brought me into this whole mess. He brought me on as part of his album release tour, an album he made with the Weakerthans,” he said. “Then I ended up playing with the Weakerthans and now Kathleen. I Wouldn’t be here without the help and support from Jim.”
Humble about his success on the popular late night program, Dan said he missed meeting a celebrity guest who appeared on the show.
“I do wish I could say that I met Ricky Gervais, who was also on the show that night, but our paths never crossed.”
Patrick Ledwell, Dan’s brother and local comedian, attributes Dan’s success to his hard work and versatility as a musician.
“He’s earned it. He’s paid his dues by putting in the time,” said Patrick. “He plays in a band, he plays solo, he records and produces music for other people, too. All that versatility allows him to have a life in music.”
Both brothers attribute their success in the arts to their family and upbringing on the Loyalist Road. Dan said the support of his family is important.
“We were just brought up in a very nurturing environment, artistically and otherwise. Now as adults, we all help each other in different ways,” he said. “It’s definitely nice to always have your family behind you.”
Joking that he was a better trumpet player, Patrick said childhood access to musical instruments and time to be creative influenced him and his siblings, whom include Jane, an editor and author.
“We had guitars at the house and there was a piano. After Jane taught Dan a few chords he took it the rest of the way,” he said. “Dan was always learning different instruments because they were there.”
A sense of value in doing something creative made all the difference, he said.
“We had access to creative space and time to find our won was and to pursue what we found interesting.”
Dan will be returning to the Island in the spring for performances with In-Flight Safety and Jenn Grant at the East Coast Music Awards.
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