The Sheepdogs’ Enduring Bond with Sault Ste. Marie

Canadian rock band The Sheepdogs maintain a deep and longstanding connection to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, a relationship rooted in family ties and early performances that continues to shape their touring schedule today.

Bassist Ryan Gullen has spoken openly about his personal history with the city, noting that much of his extended family resides in the Sault area. This familial link has brought him back to the region regularly throughout his life, well before the band achieved national recognition.

“We would play there back in the day to a handful of people, and I’d stay with my cousins,” Gullen told SooToday. “We’ve been coming to the Sault for almost 20 years at this point, and way back in the day we’d reach and play at a venue called Loplops.”

The band’s most recent visit to Sault Ste. Marie occurred on Tuesday, April 28, 2026, as part of the final stop on their Out All Night Tour. The performance took place at The Machine Shop, a well-known local venue that has hosted numerous touring acts over the years.

Gullen expressed enthusiasm about returning for the tour’s conclusion, stating, “I’m just excited to be back in the Sault. This is the last present of the tour, so we’re going to be leaving it all on the stage there.” He added, “The Sault has always been really good to us.”

The Out All Night Tour followed the release of The Sheepdogs’ album Keep Out Of The Storm, a straight-ahead rock record issued in winter 2025–2026. It marked the band’s first full-length release in four years and their first since the departure of founding drummer Sam Corbett. Gullen described the album as “an engaging one to tackle” given the lineup change.

Over the years, The Sheepdogs have earned multiple platinum certifications in Canada and become known for their classic rock-inspired sound, blending elements of Southern rock, blues, and folk. Their sustained relationship with Sault Ste. Marie stands as a testament to the band’s authenticity and their commitment to connecting with audiences in meaningful ways—even in smaller markets where their journey began.