John McDermott - Topic

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What an extraordinary path John McDermott has been on. In the 1960s, as a young immigrant from Scotland, he embarked with his family to Toronto. From these humble beginnings his path led him to St. Michael's Choir School, and later to the circulation department at the Toronto Sun Newspaper. In a lucky turn of events, John recorded twelve songs as a heartfelt gift for his parents' 50th anniversary, a decision that would lead to his breakout 1992 album “Danny Boy”. John's journey as an artist boasts 30 full recordings, platinum sales certifications and numerous Juno award nominations. His remarkable odyssey has even granted him an audience with five U.S. presidents. Beyond personal triumphs, McDermott's altruism shines. Honoured with the U.S. Congressional Medal of Honor Society's Bob Hope award and a Minister of Veterans Affairs Commendation, he has also dedicated himself to raising $3.6 million to revitalize the K-Wing Veterans Centre at Toronto’s Sunnybrook Hospital. Continually musically active, with both his latest original recording "As The Sky Gives The Ocean,” and a recently re-imagined vinyl LP of "Danny Boy," McDermott continues to share with us the essence of his soul, marking another chapter in a beautifully woven life.