Discover Karen Fowlie -the Alberta Born Singer/Songwriter, Adoptee, and Mom
About Karen
Karen Fowlie is a celebrated singer-songwriter based in Calgary, Alberta, known for her distinctive original songs and compelling voice. Writing and performing since 1997, Karen is a Western Canadian storyteller and community builder whose intimate, uplifting performances leave a lasting impression.
With deep Calgary roots and a colourful family history tied to Alberta's ranching and rodeo heritage, Karen brings a distinctly Western Canadian perspective to her songwriting. Her musical journey has also taken her beyond Canada, including a humanitarian posting in Chile, where Latin musical influences helped shape her creative voice.
Karen's original music explores life's many dimensions, from hope and resilience to romance, friendship and the unexpected twists of destiny. Her releases include Pushing the Edge, Home, Cherry Blossoms, Slipstream and Sitting Pretty. Tell Me, a song about overcoming bullying, earned an accolade from then-Attorney General Wally Oppal, and Karen's music also represented the province during a trade mission to Japan.
Beyond the stage, Karen is a passionate music community builder. Through Fowlie and Friends Entertainment Society, she created performance opportunities for more than 100 musicians and received West Vancouver's Arts and Culture Award.
Today, Karen brings all these experiences together in shows filled with heart, humour, uplifting energy and authentic musical storytelling. With new music on the horizon, she's ready to bring her distinctive sound and engaging stage presence to festival audiences.
Why You Want to Experience a Live Show
Some artists perform songs but Karen Fowlie creates experiences make audiences feel part of something special. With a compelling, character-filled voice and original songs shaped by life's adventures, relationships and unexpected turns, Karen connects through music that is honest, uplifting and refreshingly real. Her performances balance intimate moments with feel-good energy, leaving audiences inspired and hoping for just one more dance. A seasoned performer with festival appearances, Karen has played Merritt Mountainfest, West Vancouver Harmony Arts Festival and has even opened for Canadian rock favourites Trooper. For festivals looking for an engaging, memorable performance with heart, roots and a distinctly Western Canadian spirit, Karen Fowlie delivers.
Karen's Influences
There are so many! The top three that come to mind are: Bonnie Raitt, Lady A. and Lucinda Williams. Also dearly appreciated and respected are: Emmy Lou Harris, Sarah McLachlan, Joni Mitchell, Jann Arden, Heart, Chantal Kreviazuk, Cheryl Crow , Carrie Underwood, Bob Dylan, Neil Young, Sting, John Mayer and Gram Parsons.
