
Dave Whitty is a singer-songwriter from St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, known for his heartfelt lyrics, folky storytelling, and deep East Coast roots. Since launching his solo career in 2012, he has released four albums of original material, including his latest, Long Way to Go (2024), funded by MusicNL and earning him a nomination for 2025 Folk Artist of the Year.
Dave’s music is a celebration of Newfoundland’s spirit, capturing its beauty, resilience, and one-of-a-kind way of life. His songs draw on real people and real experiences, weaving clever lyrics, humour, and emotion into stories that connect with audiences through laughter, nostalgia, joy, and heartbreak. A self-taught guitarist with a distinct playing style, Dave has built a loyal fan base through his dynamic live performances and genuine connection to home.
He has performed full-time for more than a decade across Newfoundland and throughout Canada. He has appeared at major events such as the George Street Festival, the Iceberg Alley Performance Tent, and numerous folk festivals across the island. He has also showcased at Canadian Music Week, the East Coast Music Awards, and MusicNL Week several times.
For the past several years, Dave has held a long-standing winter residency in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. That opportunity has allowed him to tour throughout Western Mexico, perform at music festivals, and build a dedicated following made up largely of Canadians and Americans who travel south each year. The experience has helped him connect with international audiences and adapt his live show to a range of venues and cultures.
Several of Dave’s songs have received strong local and regional radio play, most notably recently Where I Belong, which has resonated deeply with audiences at home.
Beyond his work as a musician, Dave is the field director and narrator of East Harbour Heroes on Discovery Channel, a docuseries that highlights the lives of hardworking Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. He has produced stories for the show, directed the most recent season, narrated the last two, and his song Pirates serves as the theme. The project perfectly reflects what Dave strives to do as an artist: share authentic Newfoundland stories with heart and honesty.
A versatile performer, Dave can take the stage solo, as a duo, trio, or with a full band, allowing him to adapt to any environment, from intimate songwriter circles to large outdoor folk festivals.
Proudly representing Newfoundland and its culture, Dave continues to share his songs and stories with sincerity and warmth, bringing the heart and humour of home to audiences wherever he performs.
