Press
Biography
Andy grew up in the suburbs of Toronto, close enough to attend shows at venues such as the El Mocambo, the Horseshoe Tavern and Maple Leaf Gardens. Drawn to Americana and roots music for their storytelling and genre-blending qualities, these traditions form the foundation of his songwriting.
He has hitch-hiked through the Maritimes, jumped boxcars in the Rockies, and crossed the vastness of Canada numerous times by train, truck and motorcycle. Through musical revolutions, the arc of careers, travel, and life, he has dragged his guitar behind him, churning out songs and stories infused with memorable melodies and characters. His songs explore the poignant, surprising and sometimes humorous experiences life throws at us with unique insight, warmth and reverence.
Andy has performed across Canada and is a regular performer on Vancouver Island, appearing numerous times at coffeehouses, house concerts, and festivals including the Islands Folk Festival and the 39 Days of July Cowichan Summer Festival. His recordings have received airplay on independent radio and have been included on playlists supporting contemporary folk and roots music in Canada and the United States.
A lifelong student of the songwriting craft, he has studied with songwriters such as Pat Pattinson, Ralph Murphy, Stephen Fearing and Brandon Isaak, and he also leads songwriting workshops that aim to welcome and offer support to new voices.
Andy has a friendly and engaging stage presence, and his catchy lyrics supported by his competent guitar style, tend to leave audiences smiling.
Press Quotes & Reviews
“Andy Cooke is a talented songwriter whose gracious stage presence and magnetic songs have endeared him to the hearts of listeners. His songs are honest, raw, and draw inspiration from the touchstones of our shared human experience. Andy is always well received on our open stage.”
-Victoria Folk Music Society
“He writes like a man with his ear to the ground and his eyes on life‘s wheel as the wheel turns; he takes what he sees and hears and sets it to music.”
-Sooke News Mirror
“Andy Cooke knows how to take you on a musical journey. His heart felt lyrics and choice of melodies and progressions will keep you attentive and the mind still humming along long after the show.”
-Cowichan Folk Guild
“(Cooke) has a unique sound… Leonard Cohen poetics with blues rawness.”
-Black Press
“A songwriter’s songwriter… (Cooke) is most pleasant to listen to.”
-Longevity John Faulkner
Andy Cooke's latest album is a very enjoyable listen from start to finish. A cohesive collection of well written country folky jazzy tunes with great production. I'm looking forward to sharing this album on my radio program.
-Brian Hazelbower Harbour City Beat/ CHLY 101.7fm
“Storytelling penned and performed into lyrical melodies, he is a good songwriter and singer… who keeps history alive with his originals.”
-39 Days Of July Cowichan Summer Festival
“Fantastic show! I was caught captivated from start to finish.”
“Loved the show. Look forward to seeing you again and bringing my friends.”
-Audience Comments
High Res Images
Press Photo by Matt Cooke
Press Photo by Matt Cooke
Backstage Stanfest, Canso, NS. 2025
Photo by Kristina Baerg
Photo by Kristina Baerg
Photo by Kristina Baerg
Legion, Jasper, AB. 2025
With Peggy White Guitars, Fogo Island, NL. 2025
Royfest, Whycocomagh, Cape Breton, NS. 2025
Captain’s Pub, Twillingate, NL. 2025
Isle of the Arts Promo Photo, Gabriola Island, BC. 2020
Cowichan Folk Guild, Duncan, BC. 2024
39 Day of July, Duncan, BC. 2024
Photo by Kristina Baerg
Photo by Kristina Baerg
Photo by Kristina Baerg
Silverside Studio, Vancouver Island, BC. 2025