The East Coast Music Association and the music community remembers Mark Hiscock

Statement from the East Coast Music Association

Our music community is feeling the weight of the profound loss with the passing of Mark Hiscock, a beloved musician and founding member of the iconic musical group, Shanneyganock. For more than three decades, Mark championed the music and traditions of Newfoundland and Labrador, taking its stories and spirit to stages near and far. As a dynamic performer, thoughtful songwriter, and proud representative of Newfoundland culture, his influence will echo for years to come.

Alongside Chris Andrews, Mark helped launch Shanneyganock, creating a distinctive sound that fused the high energy of kitchen parties with the heartfelt storytelling of traditional ballads. Their music resonated deeply, striking a chord with audiences across Canada and beyond. Their contributions to East Coast music were honoured with the ECMA Dr. Helen Creighton Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021, followed by a similar recognition from MusicNL in 2024.

This week, as we come together in St. John’s for the 37th annual East Coast Music Awards, we’ll carry Mark’s memory with us. Shanneyganock will perform on Thursday, May 8 at the Mary Brown’s Centre, dedicating their set to their late bandmate — a powerful celebration of his enduring legacy.

We extend our deepest sympathies to Mark’s family, bandmates, friends, and the countless fans across the country feeling his loss. Though he may be gone, his voice will carry on through the music he created —echoing in every melody, and remembered in every heart it touched.

— The East Coast Music Association