Clela Errington

About
With a voice that is timeless and true Toronto singer/songwriter Clela Errington sings directly to the reflective heart creating a mood of intimacy, both reserved and passionate. Her vibrant blend of folk and jazz creates the perfect vehicle for Clela’s dynamic vocal delivery on Walkin’ Each Other Home, her 5th album to date.
Clela’s eclectic musical influences are evident in her interpretation of songs ranging from the 1930’s country blues of Memphis Minnie to the contemporary jazz stylings of Abbey Lincoln and the raw poetry of singer songwriter Lucinda Williams. Clela’s original compositions Standing On The Platform and Full Moon Dark Time are standouts on this beautiful album Walkin’ Each Other Home.
Produced with Jimmy Bowskill at the helm and recorded live off the floor, the stripped down arrangements feature Clela’s stunning voice accompanied by some of Canada’s finest musicians:
Jimmy Bowskill (Blue Rodeo – Brooks and Bowskill)
Steve O’Connor (Jim Cuddy Band)
Ian McKeown (Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar)
Alec Fraser (Jeff Healey band)
Chris Bartos (Sarah Harmer band)
Jocelyn Barth (Vesuvius Music)
Brittany Brooks ( Brooks and Bowskill)
Born in Montreal and raised on the St Lawrence river in Brockville ON in the 1000 Islands region, Clela followed the river to Prince Edward Island on Canada’s East coast, where she was first introduced to blues, folk, country and Celtic music. Clela lived in PEI and performed throughout the Maritimes in a duo with Island vocalist Dawne Fraser. Eventually returning to Ontario and settling in Toronto, Clela is now part of the city’s rich music scene as a featured performer and a backup vocalist, often collaborating with other artists on stage and in the studio.
After years of singing choral music in her high school choir, Clela has a passion for vocal harmonies Clela’s daughter vocalist Jocelyn Barth, adds her ethereal voice to Clela’s compositions Full Moon Dark Time, from the album Walkin’ Each Other Home and to White Dove from Clela’s 2014 album More Love and Happiness. When mother and daughter sing together they create that magical vocal blend that transports the listener. To quote Toronto music promoter and journalist, the late Gary Webb, “the tapestry of interplay between Clela and Jocelyn’s voices was so beautiful and intricate that it was nearly hallucinogenic.“
Most recently, Clela’s composition White Dove was arranged for choir by Toronto musicologist Mike Daley, and will be performed in March 2025 by the University of Toronto Hart House Chorus under the direction of Daniel Norman.
“Clela’s voice resonates with the same profound clarity and emotional honesty as icons like Joni Mitchell, Anne Murray, and Judee Sill. Her voice, both tender and powerful, provides a sense of safety and familiarity.” Lori Cullen, Canadian singer/songwriter
“Walking Each Other Home is a sonically gorgeous sample of the mature work of one of the most beautiful voices you will ever hear.
Clela portrays the lyrics with intimate clarity, and her wisdom and passion peek around every corner. The musicianship and harmonies remain natural and committed throughout and the production values are superb.
A new classic of Canadiana.” Paul Corby, Corby’s Orbit – Radio Regent, Toronto
“Clela’s warm, beautiful voice is full of love. Here’s an artist who brings healing during these troubled times.” Stella Walker, Métis multi-disciplinary artist and voice coach
“Much like Eva Cassidy, when you hear Clela sing for the first time, you wonder where this voice has been all your life, and want to hear more.” Bob Mersereau, Canadian music writer and broadcaster
“Clela, you really were one of the highlights of this years festival. Our audiences love warm engaging singers like you and Rick Fines.” Gary Woodcock, Artistic Director, Folk Harbour Festival, Lunenburg NS
“Clela I have really enjoyed listening to your CDs. I love your singing and the way you are using the minor tuned harps. Keep up the great work and keep on harpin’.” Charlie McCoy, Nashville musician
