From Rolling Stone to Rock Royalty: The Sheepdogs Keep Rising

Wednesday, 28 January 2026 00:05

The Canadian rockers that went from prairie obscurity to national stardom after a Rolling Stone cover launched them into the spotlight

In the world of Canadian rock, few stories capture the imagination quite like that of The Sheepdogs. Hailing from Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, the band spent years honing their sound in local clubs and recording studios before catching the eye of the world’s most iconic music magazine. In 2011, The Sheepdogs graced the cover of Rolling Stone, becoming the first unsigned band ever to achieve the feat. That single moment transformed them from regional favourites into overnight Canadian superstars.

The Rolling Stone cover didn’t just serve as a badge of recognition—it opened doors that had previously seemed sealed. Festivals, international tours, and major recording contracts followed, establishing The Sheepdogs as one of the country’s most beloved rock acts. Their signature blend of bluesy riffs, tight harmonies, and retro-inspired rock earned them comparisons to the likes of Creedence Clearwater Revival and The Allman Brothers Band, yet they brought a distinctly Canadian flair to the genre.

Over the past decade, The Sheepdogs have consistently released music that resonates with fans old and new. Their discography, including albums like Learn & Burn and Future Nostalgia, showcases a band comfortable in its vintage rock identity while unafraid to explore fresh sonic territory. The Rolling Stone moment was just the spark; their dedication and songwriting prowess have been what truly solidified their place in Canadian music history.

The Sheepdogs’ latest single, “Keep Out of the Storm,” demonstrates that their creative fire remains undimmed. The song blends jangling guitar riffs with a driving rhythm section, all anchored by vocalist Ewan Currie’s commanding voice. Lyrically, the track reflects themes of resilience and perseverance, echoing the band’s own journey from prairie obscurity to national recognition. Critics have praised the single for its energetic hooks and mature songwriting, marking it as a standout addition to the band’s growing catalogue.

Fans won’t have to wait long to experience The Sheepdogs live. The band is set to perform at The Kee to Bala on August 14th & 15th, promising an electrifying show that blends their classic hits with fresh material from their recent recordings. Local fans are eager to see the band in an intimate setting, a chance to connect with the raw energy that has propelled The Sheepdogs from Canadian bars to international stages. Tickets have been moving fast, a testament to the enduring appeal of a group whose rise to fame once seemed improbable but now feels like destiny.

The story of The Sheepdogs is one of perseverance, talent, and the occasional stroke of serendipity. From their historic Rolling Stone cover to headlining shows across Canada and releasing new music that continues to impress, they exemplify how homegrown bands can achieve superstardom while staying true to their roots. For fans old and new, “Keep Out of the Storm” and the upcoming Kee to Bala show are reminders that The Sheepdogs’ journey is far from over—and their best riffs may still be ahead.

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