Our History

40 Years of Advocacy, Education, and Community

The Songwriters Association of Canada was founded in 1983 when a group of music creators, led by Terry McManus, were concerned with the lack of input songwriters were having in the music industry, as well as the apparent absence of real copyright registration in Canada.

In response to these issues, with the help of Stephen Stohn (lyricist and lawyer) and esteemed music creators such as Eddie Schwartz and Rich Dodson, the Songwriters Association of Canada was formed (originally under the name Canadian Songwriters Association).

Terry McManus

Since its inception, the organization has grown exponentially. It has established an industry presence and driven the professional development of music creators through workshops, writing sessions, and performance opportunities.

The S.A.C. also created the “Canadian Song Depository” (Songvault). This Canadian copyright registration service offered a timestamp of music creators’ works and helped the S.A.C. to become a leading organization in advocating to protect the creative, business, and legal interests of music creators in Canada and around the world.

Eddie Schwartz

As the S.A.C. has expanded over the years, so has the breadth of its programming.

By collaborating with different communities and organizations, the S.A.C. expanded its signature Pro Songworks songwriting camp to bring new programming to the community. The S.A.C. partnered with Kilometre Music Group, The Remix Project, and Manitoba Music which introduced a new roster of artists of various genres and skill levels.

Former S.A.C. Board President, Haydain Neale of Jacksoul (photo: Stephen Uhraney)

Our People

Officers & Directors

Our Staff