 |
Meryn CadellCanadian writer, screenwriter and performance artist
Country:
 Canada |
Content:
- A Versatile Creative: Ka-Dell
- Early Life and Artistic Beginnings
- Musical Breakthrough
- Activism and Return to Art
- Public Transition
- Legacy and Ongoing Impact
A Versatile Creative: Ka-Dell
Ka-Dell is a multifaceted Canadian artist whose talents extend to writing, songwriting, and performance art. His journey has been marked by groundbreaking achievements and a commitment to social justice.
Early Life and Artistic Beginnings
Ka-Dell, who at the time identified as a woman, first rose to prominence in the 1980s as a performance artist in Toronto's Queen Street West scene. In 1988, they released an independent cassette titled "Mare-In Ka-Dell." Their distinctive style blended personal narratives, spoken word, and introspective lyrics.
Musical Breakthrough
In 1991, Ka-Dell signed with Intrepid Records and recorded "Angel Food for Thought" alongside renowned musicians such as Jim Creeggan and Bob Wiseman. The album's lead single, "The Sweater," unexpectedly became a hit in Canada, despite being a spoken word piece that captured the thoughts of a young girl.
Ka-Dell followed up with the 1993 album "Bombazine," featuring collaborations with the Rheostatics and other notable musicians. After taking a hiatus from music, they returned in 1997 with "6 Blocks," released on Handsome Boy Records. This album showcased their continued experimentation with genres and featured contributions from Mary Margaret O'Hara and other indie artists.
Activism and Return to Art
Ka-Dell has been an outspoken advocate for human rights, serving with the Canadian chapter of PEN International. They also wrote the screenplay for an independent film that unfortunately remained unproduced.
Public Transition
In 2004, Ka-Dell publicly came out as transgender on CBC Radio One's "Bunny Watson" show. Close friends and family had been aware of their transition for several years prior.
Legacy and Ongoing Impact
Ka-Dell's influence as an artist and activist continues to resonate. In 2007, "Angel Food for Thought" was re-released with bonus tracks and a music video for "The Sweater." Today, Ka-Dell teaches songwriting and libretto writing at the University of British Columbia's Creative Writing Program, inspiring and nurturing a new generation of artists.
