Canadian singer/songwriter Tom Swick spent his formative years in the industrial city of Hamilton, Ontario. A bagpiper since his early teens, Swick is also proficient on the guitar, piano, and drums. Hoping to avoid the steel mills, the budding musician began playing in bands in his late teens, but found the industry to be a more viable prospect as a solo artist. He won over the executives at a meeting with Warner Music Canada by hauling his guitar along with him for an impromptu office performance. His debut album, Stalled Out in the Doorway, was released in 2006. ~ James Christopher Monger