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Tom Power, an accomplished musician and broadcaster, takes the helm as the host of CBC Radio One’s national arts and entertainment program, q. Originally from St. John’s, Newfoundland, Tom’s journey in the world of radio began with programming folk music on college radio while pursuing a B.A. in Folklore at Memorial University.
In 2008, he made his mark on CBC by becoming the host of Deep Roots, following a stint as a news announcer at a local radio station. What’s truly remarkable is that at just 21 years of age, Tom became the youngest national radio host on the station since the legendary Peter Jennings.
In 2011, Tom stepped into the role of hosting Radio 2 Morning, the CBC’s flagship daily morning national music program. His engaging and charismatic personality expanded the show’s reach to a new, younger audience. Tom’s expertise in the arts also extends to CBC Television, where he’s become the go-to person for arts coverage. He has delivered critical insights and expertise in stories featuring prominent figures like David Bowie, Gord Downie, and George Martin.
As the host of q, Tom has received acclaim for his in-depth conversations with an array of artists, including Diana Krall, George Clooney, Paul Simon, Guillermo del Toro, Emma Stone, and Chuck D.
Beyond the microphone, Tom is a multifaceted talent. He leads his own band, The Dardanelles, which has introduced traditional Newfoundland music to a broader audience, performing at festivals and theaters worldwide. Additionally, he’s a member of the Polaris Music Prize jury and contributes to the CARAS Music advisory committees. Tom Power is undeniably a prominent figure in the world of Canadian arts and media.