Muskoka’s Own Hitmaker: New Biography on Marc Jordan

From Toronto stages to Muskoka cottages, Marc Jordan’s life and music career are captured in a new biography that charts his journey as one of Canada’s most enduring songwriters

Canadian singer-songwriter and hitmaker Marc Jordan is the subject of a new biography, giving fans and music historians a deep dive into the life of the man behind some of Canada’s most memorable songs. The book traces his journey from early performances in Toronto coffeehouses to co-writing chart-topping hits with the likes of Chaka Khan, Rod Stewart, and Diana Ross.

Jordan’s music career has long been marked by versatility. He has released solo albums that explore pop, jazz, and adult contemporary sounds, while his pen has helped shape international hits, including Stewart’s “Baby Jane” and hits for other legendary performers. Yet the biography goes beyond his professional accomplishments to explore the personal side of Jordan’s life — including a quieter life spent in the scenic Muskoka region.

Jordan, who owns a cottage in Muskoka with his wife, singer-songwriter Amy Sky, and their two children, has often retreated to the lakes and forests of Ontario’s famed cottage country. The biography notes how these summers away from Toronto’s bustling music scene have been a source of inspiration and reflection, providing a creative sanctuary for Jordan and a family haven for his children. Locals in Muskoka have occasionally glimpsed the singer-songwriter enjoying the region’s natural beauty, reinforcing his deep personal connection to the area.

The biography, written by Canadian music journalist Lisa Walters, includes stories of Jordan’s collaborations, creative process, and the sometimes turbulent music industry landscape he navigated over decades. Walters highlights how Muskoka played a role in giving Jordan a sense of balance amid a high-pressure career: “The lakes, the quiet, the connection to nature — it’s where he recharges. You see glimpses of it in his more introspective songs,” she says.

Fans and readers will also gain insight into Jordan’s private life, including his marriage to Amy Sky, their shared musical endeavors, and the family’s balance between a public career and private retreats in Muskoka. The book underscores that while Jordan’s hits may be global, his roots — and much of his inspiration — remain distinctly Canadian.

In addition to the biography, Jordan is reportedly working on new music and may return to performing at select venues in Canada this year. Fans of his work, especially those who have followed him from his early Toronto days, now have a chance to understand the man behind the hits, as well as his quieter, Muskoka-connected side that has shaped both his life and music.

With the biography hitting shelves this month, it’s an opportunity for both long-time admirers and new listeners to explore the breadth of Marc Jordan’s career — from international chart success to family summers in the tranquil waters of Muskoka.

Marc Jordan: Charting a Career of Hits

1978 – “Marina del Rey”
One of Jordan’s first solo successes, this smooth, jazz-infused ballad captured attention in Canada and helped cement his reputation as a rising singer-songwriter.

1980 – “Survival”
A soulful track that showcased Jordan’s rich vocals and songwriting depth, it became a staple on Canadian radio and remains a fan favorite.

1985 – “Rhythm of My Heart” (Rod Stewart)
Written by Jordan and John Capek, this song became an international hit for Stewart, reaching the top 5 in the UK and topping charts in multiple countries.

1989 – “This” (Rod Stewart)
Another hit penned by Jordan, it added to Stewart’s late-80s string of successful releases, with smooth rock-pop sensibilities that echoed Jordan’s own style.

1992 – “Charlie Parker Loves Me” (Rod Stewart)
A heartfelt ballad celebrating the spirit of jazz, showcasing Jordan’s knack for crafting songs that cross genres and generations.

1996 – “Deep Water” (Bonnie Raitt)
Recorded by the legendary Raitt, this song highlighted Jordan’s ability to write emotive, blues-tinged material for established artists.

1996 – “Promises” (Amanda Marshall)
A Canadian pop hit, this track earned widespread radio play and further cemented Jordan’s role as a go-to songwriter for emerging talents.

1997 – “Take Me Home” (Joe Cocker)
Jordan’s songwriting versatility shone through on this soulful track performed by the raspy-voiced Cocker.

2000s – Various Cuts
Throughout the early 2000s, Jordan’s songs were recorded by Natalie Cole, Shawn Colvin, Josh Groban, and others, proving his continued relevance in adult contemporary and pop music circles.

2010s – Continued Songwriting
Even decades into his career, Jordan’s compositions found homes with artists like Rod Stewart (continuing collaborations), Jeff Healey Band, and Canadian talent Molly Johnson, showing his songs’ enduring appeal.

Sources:

• Lisa Walters, Marc Jordan: Songwriting and Life
• Wikipedia
• Canadian Musician Magazine

Image: This file is licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 2.0 Generic license.  Author: Canadian Film Centre