Bio
Neil Harnett is from White Rock, BC and has enjoyed such highlights as a Juno Nomination, three singles on the Canadian charts, two full length CDs, three videos with national exposure and shared concert billings with Jeff Healey, Chuck Berry and The Doobie Brothers.
In 1988, Neil’s composition, Ain’t Good Lovin’ Enough was recorded by Diamond in the Rough and made it to the top ten of the Canadian AC charts. The buzz created by Neil’s performances and growing catalogue of tunes earned him his own deal the following year. Neil’s debut CD, Times Like These, met with enthusiastic response when it was released on Bruce Allen’s Penta label in the spring of 1989. That’s What I Need, and the title track both made it into the Top Ten of the Canadian AC charts plus Times Like These had a supporting video that was played on Much Music.
Neil was nominated for a Juno Award, as Most Promising Male Vocalist in 1990. National interest in Neil was at a peak when Penta suddenly folded, leaving him entangled in legal and contractual confusion. In mid-1995, finally free of the red tape, Neil entered Greenhouse Studios with some of Vancouver's finest talent and began recording a self-produced follow-up album. Rubber Room Day, received positive reviews and the two supporting videos for Nothing is Changing and Guardian Angel received maximum rotation on CMT.
Tom Harrison from The Province - “...As the title suggests, this is a record that contemplates state of mind and emotion. It is a thought provoking as well as soul-stirring work...”, Tony Montigue from The Georgia Straight - “...Rubber Room Day is a well produced album of music that is firmly in the pop-rock mainstream. Harnett is a fine guitarist and a strong singer...”, Brant Zwicker Station Manager CFBX 92.5 FM Kamloops - “...Neil is one of those rare and talented singer-songwriters who are equal parts of both – first-rate vocalist and composer – and when his tasty guitar playing is added to the mix, it simply does not get any better. Whether performing solo or with a band, Harnett can rock the house, and then turn around and break your heart with but a song...”
After a much needed hiatus and a series of life changing events Neil finally released his new CD, Somewhere, in 2009. Various tracks from Somewhere have received airplay throughout the world including The Shore in Vancouver and stations in Sweden, Australia and the US. The tunes from Somewhere are a testament to Neil's musical depth and diversity, encompassing rock, blues, folk and roots music, all showcasing Neil's world-class, soulful vocals and guitar work.
Tom Harrison from the Province – '…The songs resonate with a personal reason for being and are more than just a collection of songs amassed over the years. Somewhere is an album Harnett had to make but nearly didn't…'
Alex Browne from The Peace Arch News – '…His daughter's fight back from a brain injury has given Neil Harnett a new focus for his music. One of the ironies, was that although the songs predated the accident, many have a theme of positivity, hope and of never giving up in the face of hardship…'
Whether solo or with a band, Neil is well known for his relaxed audience rapport and engaging, passionate performances. Neil is always looking for new opportunities to share his music so keep a lookout as he is likely to show up Somewhere in your neighbourhood soon.