Who knows why… and perhaps it’s true that Dennis Ellsworth often gets labelled as a songwriter’s songwriter. His path began with absorbing his parents’ records and cassettes, and it progressed to teaching himself guitar so he could write his own songs. Right from the start, he never wanted to learn other people’s songs. His position is that there is no end to growing as a songwriter. It shows up in his themes, his language, and his ability to switch moods and styles of music to suit his current head or heart space — and it will most certainly transform again and again.

In 2012, Dennis left his band Haunted Hearts and started making solo records. Following the release of his David Barbe–produced debut solo album, Dusk Dreams, he began touring in Canada. After meeting a few key individuals, he started touring the UK. For about six years, he came to the UK at least twice a year to promote his releases.

In 2019, his daughter was born, and he wanted to spend more time at home, so he slowed right down. He kept writing, recording, and releasing new music, but the days of crossing the Atlantic were on hold. The Covid-19 pandemic shut down the world and helped him settle into parenthood.

His newest album, Hardcore Freewheelin’ (Tonic Records), produced by Canadian songwriter and producer Jim Bryson, is concise and sonically top-tier, showcasing Ellsworth’s versatility exceptionally well.

With his brand-new album, as well as a deluxe reissue of his 2013 album Hazy Sunshine on the way, Dennis Ellsworth is making his return to the UK in late January 2026 — with a standout four-piece band for maximum enjoyment.

Tell your friends!!!