Lawrence Maxwell shares new single, “Blackout Curtain”
Lawrence Maxwell isn’t just riding the alt-country wave—he’s helping steer it. Hailing from Prince Edward Island, Maxwell cut his teeth on beer caps, rough waters, and country music grit, crafting songs that feel weathered, worn, and wonderfully true. His latest album, Ballad of Miles, earned seven Music PEI Award nominations and secured him the 2024 title of Entertainer of the Year.
With airplay on SiriusXM’s Top of the Country, Country Hits Radio UK, and CBC’s Q, Maxwell’s name is quickly becoming known far beyond the island. Critics are taking notice too—Roots Music Canada called Ballad of Miles “the first great Canadian alt-country album of the year,” drawing apt comparisons to legends like John Prine and Merle Haggard.
Fresh off a string of international performances at Denmark’s Tønder Festival and the UK’s Manchester Folk Festival, and with an ECMA nomination and multiple Music PEI wins under his belt, Maxwell is bringing his honest, neo-traditional sound to a growing global audience.
First off, care to introduce yourself to our readers?
My name is Lawrence Maxwell, and I’m a Country singer-songwriter from PEI.
Tell us a bit about your recent release.
Blackout Curtain was written during a dark and low period in my life. I’ve dealt with mental health struggles on and off for about ten years. One morning, during this latest bout, a calming stillness came over me. I felt as though I was being lifted up and guided toward writing this song. For the first time in a while, a lot of grief and unprocessed feelings began to move through and out of me. When it came time to record, I wanted the music to feel hopeful to match the lyrics. To me, this isn’t a sad song, but one of strength and redemption.
How do you typically go about the songwriting process? Do you have a specific method or creative routine that you follow?
I’m a big believer in Julia Cameron’s theory of “morning pages,” as laid out in her book The Artist’s Way. I’ve done years of this practice, writing out three full pages each morning. The idea isn’t to be precious about the words, but to just allow them to come through without judgment. I’ve used some of these writings to inspire songs, while other times a melody finds me and I uncover the words after the fact. I think that some routine is important, especially one that allows for the spontaneous and mysterious happenings.
Looking ahead, what are your plans for supporting this new release? Are there any upcoming tours, music videos, or additional content that fans can look forward to in connection with this project?
I’m currently in the process of creating a full-length album with Producer Colin Buchanan. The plan will be to tour in Canada and the UK in 2026 on the back of this release.
Looking back on your musical career, is there a particular moment or accomplishment that you consider a turning point or a highlight?
About seven years ago, I remember playing a brunch gig at the old Trailside Café in Mount Stewart, PEI. There was an older gentleman sitting near the front. He was smiling the whole time, but sitting very still. Suddenly, like a bolt of lightning, he jumped out of his seat and began to clap and dance, his smile growing with each step. People in the audience were moved, as was I. After the show, I’d come to find out he was 91 years old, and his daughter thanked us, saying it had been so long since she’d seen her father move like that. I think that more than any accomplishment, it’s those moments of connection that really inspire you and make you feel a part of something special.
Last, but not least, it’s time to pay it forward. What upcoming band or artist would you recommend your fans check out?
For the love of God, everyone, go check out Shane Pendergast. He’s a brilliant young folk songwriter and a friend. The storytelling and music don’t get better than that; they only get different.