Ontario Country Artist Jeff Michaels Shares Warm New Single, “Sittin’ Here On This Dock” Celebrating Simple Joys
Jeff Michaels has released his brand-new single, “Sittin’ Here On This Dock,” offering listeners a warm escape into moments of ease, reflection, and celebration, blending Michaels’ country roots with vivid storytelling.
Born in Mississauga, Ontario, and now based in Cambridge, Ontario, Michaels has grown his career as both a bandleader and a solo artist. His years with The Southdowns gave him a foundation in performance and songwriting, while his solo work reflects his personal vision—country music rooted in sincerity and connection.
Following the release of his EP, Down Here In Mexico, Michaels has continued to shape a sound that draws on his Ontario upbringing and his love of country traditions. His music thrives on the balance of good times with friends and the grounding presence of home.
“Sittin’ Here On This Dock” paints a vivid picture of simple pleasures: casting a fishing line, sharing a drink with friends, and watching the sun set over the water. Its lyrics highlight the joy of stepping away from the rush of everyday life and leaning into time with the people and places that matter most.
The verses build images of laughter, music, and lake life, while the chorus captures a state of contentment with lines like, “Now I’m sittin’ here on this dock, poppin’ that bottle top. Slow and easy, that’s the life for me.” The song brings to life a familiar Canadian summer scene that resonates with listeners everywhere.
In his own words, Jeff Michaels explains:
“This song came from my love for the outdoors and the times I’ve spent at the lake. It’s about slowing down, being present, and enjoying the company of friends. It’s the soundtrack to the kind of summer nights I want to hold onto.”
Michaels continues:
“When I write, I want to share something real. With ‘Sittin’ Here On This Dock,’ I wanted to capture a feeling that so many of us know—the peace of sitting still and appreciating where you are.”
With his growing catalog, Michaels is building a reputation as an artist who crafts music that feels both timeless and personal. “Sittin’ Here On This Dock” affirms his place as one of country music’s rising voices from Ontario.
Hi, Jeff! Good to meet you! Care to introduce yourself to the readers for those not familiar with your music?
I discovered my love and passion for music at a young age. From singing in school productions to fronting high school bands, my connection to the stage only grew stronger over time. After spending time in Calgary early in my career, I focused on writing and performing country music, both for myself and other artists. Working as a booking agent at the iconic Ranchman’s only gave me more ambition to move forward.
Staying true to my path, I later reunited with former bandmates to form The Southdowns. While the group enjoyed several exciting years together, I ultimately realized that my true calling was pursuing a solo career in the genre I loved most — country music.
I released my debut single, Sittin’ Here on This Dock, in the U.S., where it successfully charted on Nashville Music Row as an independent artist — a significant milestone in my journey. Now, with a clear vision and a renewed drive, I am dedicated to building on that success and sharing my music with an ever-growing audience.
What was the first image or memory that sparked the idea for “Sittin’ Here On This Dock”?
Honestly, it’s quite simple — sitting on a dock, watching the water, is my happy place. I don’t feel the need to overcomplicate my writing when it comes to something so pure and authentic. There’s a unique tranquility that comes from simply being still, soaking in the atmosphere, and appreciating the world around you.
For me, the happiest moments are often tied to a body of water, good friends, and maybe a cocktail or two. Life doesn’t always need to be complicated — sometimes, the simplest experiences are the most meaningful.
The song feels like an ode to Canadian summers. How much of it comes from your own lived experiences at the lake?
For as long as I can remember, every holiday I’ve taken — whether a quick getaway or a longer escape — has been spent on a hidden bay in Ontario or a sun-soaked beach in the Caribbean. That easygoing, laid-back vibe is exactly what I want listeners to feel when they hear this song.
It’s about capturing the simple joys of life: that breeze from the water, the smell of barbecue in the air, the sound of friends laughing, and an acoustic guitar strumming softly by the fire. To me, that’s what real life is all about — or at least, what it should be.
You’ve balanced band life with The Southdowns and your solo career. How has that shift influenced the way you approach songwriting now?
I can never say enough positive things about my former bandmates. These are lifelong friends who played an instrumental role in shaping any success I’ve been fortunate enough to achieve. I’m also still closely connected with my co-writer on many songs, and we plan to continue collaborating on this project.
While the songwriting may have evolved and taken a slightly different direction, it reflects where my heart truly is. I’ve been blessed to have so many incredible people join me on this journey, and I deeply value the lessons they’ve shared and the memories we’ve created along the way.
If this song becomes the soundtrack to someone’s summer, what do you hope they remember when they hear it years from now?
As with any memory deeply embedded in our hearts and minds, I would be honored to even be a small part of what takes someone to that place — to that smile, that wave of nostalgia, and that sense of happiness that music can evoke.
There are so many songs in my own life that bring back a flood of emotions and memories. I can pinpoint the time, place and feeling I had in that moment and it’s so special. If one of my songs can do that for someone else, even in the smallest way, I would be forever grateful.