SOCAN presented a “Songs & Stories” songwriters’ circle and a “Get in the Van” touring panel, and sponsored the Songwriter(s) of the Year Award at the 2008 Western Canadian Music Awards (WCMAs) and conference, held Oct. 16-19 in Edmonton.

On Sunday, Oct. 19, SOCAN presented the always-popular “Songs & Stories” event in the Glenora Room of the host hotel, the Coast Edmonton Plaza. Singer-songwriter John Mann (Spirit of the West) hosted participants Brett Kissel, Little Miss Higgins and the duo of Keith and Renée (formerly Easily Amused). The circle provided a wide-ranging variety of music, and drew a crowd of more than 75 rapt listeners.

Earlier on the same day, SOCAN representative Terry O’Brien moderated the “Get in the Van” touring panel, which provided attendees with practical, effective information on Canadian tour routing, budgeting, logistics, and what life looks like from the road. Joining O’Brien in the Drayton Valley Room of the host hotel were Ralph James of The Agency Group Ltd., Craig MacMillan of Frontline Management & Booking, Scott Pilling of Ultimate Power Duo, and Dani Vachon of WHAP! Production Artist Management.

That night, the four members of the Weakerthans – John Samson, Jason Tait, Stephen Carroll and Greg Smith – won the SOCAN-sponsored Songwriter(s) of the Year award, at the gala WCMA awards show at the Myer Horowitz Theatre. The Weakerthans were the dominant winners of the night, taking home two more honours – for Outstanding Independent Album (Reunion Tour) and Video (“Civil Twilight”) of the Year.

In addition, SOCAN members Tommy Banks and Spirit of the West were inducted into the Western Canadian Music Alliance Hall of Fame.

For more information and a complete list of award winners, visit the WCMA Website.