We are deeply saddened by the passing of our esteemed colleague, writer, and friend, Andrea Warner. Andrea became a valuable member of our team in April 2012 during the early stages of CBC Music. Her acquisition by CBC was fortunate, as she went on to achieve success with award-winning publications, numerous podcast episodes, and a prominent reputation as a feminist pop-culture writer and producer. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Andrea was known for her advocacy for justice and her unwavering support for her friends, leaving a void in our hearts with her absence. Despite her battle with cancer, Andrea continued to share her witty observations, even commenting on the eclectic music played in the waiting room during her treatment.
Tragically, Andrea passed away unexpectedly on September 27 in Vancouver at the age of 47, after courageously fighting cancer for almost three years. Contributions can be made in her memory to two organizations she actively endorsed: Battered Women’s Support Services and Urban Native Youth Association.
Andrea’s legacy includes the publication of four books, such as “We Oughta Know: How Four Women Ruled the ’90s and Changed Canadian Music” and “Buffy Sainte-Marie: The Authorized Biography,” demonstrating her versatile writing skills. She was also a co-host of the podcast “Pop This!” for a decade, where she explored pop culture through a feminist lens.
At CBC Music, Andrea’s distinctive writing style stood out, particularly in her profiles of musicians that challenged conventional perceptions or rediscovered forgotten talents. Her ability to craft compelling narratives and offer fresh perspectives on musicians was evident in her articles, such as those on Deborah Cox, Loreena McKennitt, and Sinead O’Connor.
Andrea’s profound appreciation for music extended to her exploration of the intersection between music and human emotions, especially the expression of desire through music. Her interviews with artists, like Joe Manganiello, and her analysis of holiday songs in “Hot for Christmas” showcased her unique approach to music journalism.
Moreover, Andrea’s personal experiences often influenced her work, as seen in her poignant piece “Grieving, Dreaming and Drinking in L.A.,” where she reflected on her father’s untimely passing. Her ability to connect with readers on an emotional level through music was a testament to her storytelling prowess.
In her role as our “obit queen,” Andrea paid homage to departed musicians through thoughtful and poignant essays, honoring their contributions to the music industry. Her dedication to commemorating the lives and legacies of artists in our annual in memoriam pieces exemplified her deep respect for the artistry and impact of these individuals.
As we prepare to include Andrea in this year’s in memoriam, we are grateful for the time we shared with her and the lasting impact she has left on our team. While bidding her farewell remains a difficult prospect, we cherish the memories of her remarkable presence in our lives.