Sarah McLachlan’s impact remains immeasurable almost four decades into her career. Originally hailing from Halifax but now a long-time resident of British Columbia, the singer gained recognition with her third album, “Fumbling Towards Ecstasy,” released in 1993 amidst the grunge era. Despite the influence of the time evident in her songwriting, McLachlan stayed true to herself, showcasing her remarkable voice, guitar skills, and emotional depth.
After the success of her subsequent album, “Surfacing,” McLachlan founded Lilith Fair, a pioneering all-women music festival challenging the notion that women couldn’t headline festivals or receive airplay successively — a move that set records in the music industry.
Renowned Montreal singer-songwriter and Grammy winner Allison Russell praised McLachlan’s impact on her work and values, emphasizing McLachlan’s strength and authenticity. The editorial team at CBC Music, in celebration of McLachlan’s first album in ten years and the upcoming documentary “Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery,” curated a list of her top 15 songs, spanning from her debut album “Touch” to her latest release, “Better Broken.”
The selection process was rigorous, excluding Christmas tracks but including iconic songs like the one that featured in popular TV shows such as “Dawson’s Creek” and “Family Guy.” The list showcases McLachlan’s musical evolution over the years, culminating in a diverse collection of her most compelling and emotionally resonant tracks.
Stay tuned to CBC Music for more insights into Sarah McLachlan, with special features airing on CBC Music Mornings and Drive, delving into her timeless music and the essence of her acclaimed 1993 album, “Fumbling Towards Ecstasy.”