The music scene in Nova Scotia lost a very important figure during the long-weekend. Sean McKenna passed away unexpectedly on the morning of August 4th, 2025. A fundraiser has been set up to support Sean’s girlfriend with funeral and memorial costs, immediate living expenses and time and space to grieve without financial strain. *CLICK HERE TO DONATE*
From the BARSTOOLS AND BANDTALK/Rimshots with Sean Facebook Page:
“It is with great sadness and heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Sean McKenna — a lifelong musician, devoted friend, and fierce champion of Nova Scotia’s independent music scene — who left us far too soon.
Born and raised in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, Sean’s journey through life was one led by passion, rhythm, and an unshakable belief in the power of music. A professional musician since 1987, Sean’s early days were spent touring Canada, sharing stages with some of the country’s most respected acts. But it was in 2020, as the world stood still, that Sean’s voice reached farther than ever before.
What began as a humble local radio show, Front and Centre, quickly evolved during the pandemic into Barstools and BANDTALK/Rimshots with Sean — a wide-reaching podcast and music platform. His ‘guest list’ grew from friends and peers to icons of the international music scene. Across more than 800 interviews, Sean’s warmth, deep musical knowledge (especially of drumming), and boundless enthusiasm created a space for artists to be heard, seen, and celebrated.
Sean was more than a host — he was a connector, a cheerleader and a mentor. He was a musician’s musician who believed in lifting others as he climbed. Many new artists got their first exposure through Sean’s show, and he always had a kind word, a generous spirit, and a deep respect for the journey of others.
His greatest joy in recent years came not only from his podcast and promotion company, but from his band with his girlfriend, Halifax singer Michelle Ryder. Sean was Michelle’s biggest fan — in music and in life. Their love, both personal and creative, was evident to everyone who knew them.
From Halifax to the world, Sean McKenna proved that the soul of indie music doesn’t reside solely in L.A. or New York — it lives wherever people like him show up, share their hearts, and help others shine.
Rest in rhythm, Sean. You gave so much. You will be deeply missed and never forgotten.”
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