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Meet Me For CoffeeConversations with interesting people from the entertainment industry and more! Author: George Panayi
Meet Me For Coffee is a Canadian interview series hosted by George Panayi that explores the human stories behind music, entertainment, and creative work. Known for its warm style and smart questions, the show has featured chart-topping artists, producers, and cultural voicesserving listeners thoughtful, caffeine-fueled conversations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information. Language: en Genres: Music, Music Interviews, Society & Culture Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it |
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Crystal Shawanda – Turning Pain Into Power Through Music
Episode 185
Saturday, 28 March, 2026
In this episode, I sit down with Crystal Shawanda, fresh off a 2026 JUNO nomination for Blues Album of the Year for Sing Pretty Blues.But this conversation goes way deeper than awards.Crystal opens up about rebuilding her career on her own label, navigating personal loss, and how music became her way of processing grief, addiction, and healing. From losing close family and friends to addiction, to rediscovering her voice through blues, this is a raw and powerful conversation about resilience.What We Talk AboutHer 2026 JUNO nomination and the emotional reaction behind itReleasing Sing Pretty Blues independently on her own labelThe loss of her longtime manager and learning to move forwardHow grief and addiction shaped the album’s messageThe personal stories behind songs like “Changes” and “Dirty”Why music became her therapy during some of the hardest moments of her lifeThe impact of addiction on families and communities across CanadaGrowing up with country, blues, and rock—and finally blending them into her true soundBreaking free from genre boundaries and becoming fully authentic as an artistWhy This Episode MattersThis episode hits on something bigger than music.It’s about:Grief and how people carry itThe real impact of addiction on familiesFinding strength in vulnerabilityAnd learning that healing doesn’t mean forgetting—it means growingCrystal’s journey shows that sometimes your most powerful work comes from your hardest moments.About Crystal ShawandaCrystal Shawanda is a JUNO-nominated artist from Wiikwemkoong First Nation. She first broke out in country music before evolving into a powerful voice in blues.Her latest album, Sing Pretty Blues, blends country, blues, and soul—marking a new chapter where she fully embraces every part of her musical identity.If you enjoyed this episode, follow Meet Me For Coffee Podcast for more real conversations with artists and storytellers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
