Canada’s next country powerhouse
With a fearless voice, electric energy, and a modern-country sound infused with pop, rock, and Celtic flair, Prince Edward Island–born Alli Walker is quickly establishing herself as one of Canada’s most compelling new voices in country music. Known for viral hits like “The Whiskey’s Gone,” “I Like Big Trucks,” and “Dirt On Us,” Alli has amassed nearly one million social media followers and over 10 million TikTok views, while racking up millions of streams worldwide.
This summer, she reaches a new career milestone as she joins Canadian icon Shania Twain on tour — including a performance in Toronto, where Walker spent over a decade building her craft. With a background as unique as her sound — including years as a competitive bagpiper and step dancer — Alli blends raw storytelling, powerhouse vocals, and a refreshingly down-to-earth personality.
TorontoPages caught up with the Nashville-based singer-songwriter to talk about her roots, her rise, and the road ahead.
Rising Country Star Alli Walker Hits a High Note — Opening for Shania Twain in Toronto
How does it feel to be opening for Shania Twain, especially in Toronto?
It’s surreal! I had the chance to open for Shania in Newfoundland at a festival, as well as join her onstage during her set and hang out with her afterwards — it was a day I will never, ever forget. Now, getting to perform with her on her actual tour in Toronto is a dream come true.
Can you take us back to your childhood — what role did music play growing up?
My family wasn’t overly musical, actually, but my parents supported me in whatever I wanted to do — whether that was sports, music, or dance. They put me in piano as a young kid, but I didn’t love it, so I didn’t stick with it, which I actually regret. In my pre-teens I played drums and electric guitar, then I discovered bagpipes. I was step dancing at The College of Piping in Summerside, Prince Edward Island, and my mum worked there as well, so I was around it a lot. I absolutely fell in love with bagpiping and excelled quickly. I loved competing every weekend at highland games, travelling to the World Championships in Scotland, performing at private events, and theatre shows — all of it! I simultaneously fell in love with country music and started to play acoustic guitar, sing, and write music in high school.
When did you realise that music was more than a passion — that it was your path?
I was actually going to pursue bagpiping as a career — I got offered a scholarship for bagpipes at the University of Arkansas but didn’t take it. In high school, I randomly auditioned for my school musical and got the lead female role as Ariel in Footloose, and ever since then, I knew I wanted to be on stage and sing. I went to the University of Prince Edward Island as a vocal major for one year as a classical vocalist but decided to move to Toronto to have more opportunities in music — so I packed up and never looked back. I started playing anywhere and everywhere I could, travelled to Nashville to co-write, and 15 years later, I now live in Nashville and am living my dream!
What was the first song you ever wrote, and do you remember what it was about?
Honestly, I can’t remember what my first song was — I’m sure it was terrible, haha. I did write a four-song EP that I recorded in university so that I had something to go to Toronto with as an EPK promo package. I basically just recorded the first few songs I’d ever written. I don’t recommend trying to find that online, haha.
Who were your biggest musical influences growing up?
I had a wide variety of musical influences growing up. I was influenced by the radio, MTV, MuchMusic, CMT, and loved artists like Avril Lavigne, Sum 41, Nickelback, Our Lady Peace, as well as Celtic and folk music because of my bagpiping background. Then I discovered country music and loved Taylor Swift, Keith Urban, Brooks & Dunn, Alan Jackson, Gretchen Wilson, and so many others. You can really hear all of that in my music now — it’s country, with a little bit of rock, and some Celtic influence when it comes to my electric bagpipes.
Your sound blends country with pop and rock — how did you land on that fusion?
It’s truly just a representation of everything I’ve listened to and loved growing up! It’s cool when I can blend all aspects of who I am into my music, so it feels very authentic.
“I Like Big Trucks,” “Creek,” and “Dirt On Us” have such vivid storytelling. What’s your songwriting process like?
I keep a folder in the notes app on my phone full of titles and ideas. I write three to four times a week here in Nashville. I go into each writing session with new people — usually folks I haven’t even met before. There’s usually a “track person” (someone who can produce a demo in the room), a “topliner” (someone great with melodies and lyrics), and then me — “the artist” — who usually brings in the idea, the vibe, the direction, and also contributes to melody and lyrics. I let them know what I’m missing in my catalogue, what style I’m thinking for that idea, and we get to writing!
Where did the inspiration come from for your viral hit “The Whiskey’s Gone”?
We were making coffee in the kitchen at my co-writer’s house, just chatting about life before the session, and it came up that I play bagpipes. One of my co-writers was like, “OMG, we have to write a bagpipe song,” and I was like, “Umm, okay, haha — how the heck do we do that and still make it fit in country?” She started riffing and we basically came up with the whole chorus in the kitchen over coffee. It was a magical day — one of those where everything just seemed to fall into place. It’s now one of my top-streamed songs every single day, and fans keep requesting more bagpipe songs! It’s been so cool to integrate two of my passions.
With over 10 million views on TikTok, how has social media changed your career?
Social media is one of the best ways to connect with fans and get your music heard as an artist. During COVID, it was the only way to connect, so I started sharing demos of songs I was writing and got feedback from fans on what I should actually record and release. I take fans’ reactions, comments, and analytics into consideration and build my release plan from that.
Do you feel pressure to constantly produce content for platforms like TikTok and Instagram?
I do — but I love it. It’s a double-edged sword. It can be overwhelming how we have to keep posting and coming up with new ideas to promote music or connect with fans while still keeping it authentic. But I’ve always loved creating videos, and it’s rewarding when fans show up to shows from around the world because they connected with you online.
What’s the most surprising message or comment you’ve received from a fan online?
I’ve received so many — they’re all so touching. The ones where people are struggling with mental health and a song of mine helps pull them out of a dark place, or offers comfort, are especially moving. I’ve had a lot of messages about my song “First Time Living” with Gretchen Wilson, with listeners sending it to a parent or child as a way of saying, “I forgive you, and I know you did your best with where you were at the time.”
What’s your favourite lyric you’ve ever written — and why?
I have so many, but one that stands out is from “First Time Living”:
“Don’t we all need a little grace, another one more try again. A lot of things you would’ve changed, if you would’ve known what you know now back then…”
It just strikes a chord on forgiveness and giving grace, and it really resonates with me.
When you’re not writing or performing, what do you love doing most?
Writing, performing, and creating content take up most of my life — but when I’m not doing that, I love relaxing with my dogs, watching trash TV, drinking wine, or going out for dinner with friends.
What’s something about you that fans might not expect?
I’m a pretty open book, honestly — but most people don’t know I play bagpipes, so that’s usually what piques their interest!
How do you prepare mentally and physically for a live performance?
I’m always rehearsing at home, going over setlists and what I want to say between songs. Before the show, I do a vocal warm-up, don’t eat for several hours, drink lots of water, have lozenges and teas, and sometimes have a glass of white wine to calm the nerves — then it’s go time!
What’s the biggest lesson you’ve learned from performing live?
Expect the unexpected. Something always goes wrong with live tech, and every venue is different. I’ve learned to roll with it. After 10 years of performing covers in every type of Toronto venue — from weddings to dive bars to festivals — I know how to get through anything.
What was the moment that made you feel like “I’ve made it”?
Walking into Sony Music Publishing Nashville every day to write songs. They’re the biggest publishing company in the world. I used to drive down Music Row dreaming of this life, so being signed and doing this as my full-time job is truly the dream.
Are there any awards or milestones you’re especially proud of so far?
Being nominated for Female Artist of the Year at the CCMAs last year was such a shock. Presenting on TV and walking the red carpet for the first time was amazing. I also won four BCCMA awards recently — my first ever industry-voted awards — and it felt incredible to be recognized by my peers.
What do you hope people feel or take away when they hear your music?
I have something for everyone — whether you just want a good time with “Whiskey’s Gone” or “Ride It Out,” or something more emotional like “Kitchen Floor” or “First Time Living.” Music is about connection and emotion, and I’m grateful that my songs do that.
What’s next for you after opening for Shania Twain? Any albums or tours in the works?
I’ve been touring non-stop and have no plans to stop! I’ve got shows across the UK, Europe, Australia, the U.S., and Canada — all listed on my website (alliwalker.com). I’ve been releasing a song every 6–8 weeks and have hundreds ready for an album. I’m gearing up to get back in the studio and release a full project soon.
How do you stay grounded amid growing fame and attention?
I don’t see it as fame — I still live a normal life offstage. I still do a lot of the behind-the-scenes work myself because I want everything to feel authentic. My husband is also my tour manager (and wears many hats), so he keeps me grounded too, haha!
What’s a quote or mantra that keeps you going on tough days?
After 15 years of rejection, not much fazes me. But when something doesn’t go to plan, I remind myself: “Everything happens for a reason — this just wasn’t meant for you right now.”
How has being Canadian shaped your voice or perspective in country music?
Being Canadian — especially from PEI — has deeply influenced my music. My Celtic roots, small-town upbringing, and later, my years in Toronto, all helped shape who I am. I’m proud to be a Canadian artist and inspired by the talent in this country.
What’s a dream venue or festival you haven’t played yet but would love to?
I’d love to headline Cavendish Beach Music Festival in PEI. It’s where I’m from. I started as a server in VIP, then performed on a side stage, then opened the main stage — someday, I hope to be the headliner!
Your message for us at TorontoPages magazine.
Thank you so much for featuring me! I lived in Toronto and the surrounding area for over a decade, and I did so much growing there as an artist. I’m grateful to be recognized by you!
TikTok: @alliwalkermusic
Facebook: /alliwalkermusic
Instagram: @alliwalker
Website: https://www.alliwalker.com
