Overview
Tanglefoot is a Canadian folk band best known for original songs that blend history, storytelling, and strong vocal harmony. Formed in 1980, the group emerged from Ontario’s folk scene and went on to tour extensively throughout Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom.
Over nearly three decades, Tanglefoot developed a reputation for high-energy live performances and a distinctive ability to transform historical events and everyday working lives into engaging, accessible songs.
Drawing on traditional folk instrumentation while maintaining a contemporary songwriting voice, the band’s music explores themes of place, memory, and shared experience. Their catalogue includes numerous albums that remain well regarded within the Canadian folk community, and their live shows became known for their warmth, musicianship, and connection with audiences.
After concluding regular touring in 2009, the band members pursued individual projects while their music continued to reach new listeners.
In 2026, Tanglefoot entered a new chapter of live performance, carrying forward the spirit of storytelling, camaraderie, and musical vitality that has always defined their work. Steve Ritchie, Al Parrish, Sandra Swannell Young and Rob Ritchie were joined by Rob's son, singer and multi-instrumentalist Josh Ritchie who stepped into the place once held by the late Terry Young - a tribute to both family and legacy.
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