Finding his Rhythm

Finding his Rhythm

How Andrew Stevens’ Indigenous roots shaped his musical journey.

Andrew Stevens has had a lifelong passion for music.

Born in Kamloops, British Columbia, Andrew moved to London with his family when he was eight years old. His Indigenous roots connect to Eskasoni First Nation and Mi’kmaq First Nation in Nova Scotia.

Over the years, Andrew’s musical tastes evolved from AC/DC, The Rolling Stones and The Beatles to Blink 182, Green Day and Bad Religion.

Though he loved performing, he didn’t plan on it becoming his career.

“I told my art teacher I was considering taking business, marketing or social work in college,” recalls Andrew. “I didn’t think I wanted music to be my job; I didn’t want it to not be fun.”

His teacher strongly suggested he reconsider, recognizing his talent and drive. In fact, “Drives” was Andrew’s nickname in high school, which inspired his stage persona, Drives the Common Man.

Andrew followed his teacher’s advice and enrolled in Fanshawe’s Music Industry Arts program. He explored different kinds of music and wrote songs that were more personal. With over 200,000 followers on TikTok and thousands of monthly listens on Spotify, his music resonates with fans.

Andrew now teaches a course at Fanshawe called Miskasowin, from the Cree language meaning “to find one’s sense of belonging,” to students in Music Industry Arts and Broadcasting – Radio and Media Production.

“The class involves a lot of personal reflection and encourages students to look deep into their roots,” says Andrew. “It doesn’t feel like teaching a class; it feels like offering a space for students to recognize how their roots affect the music they play.”

Listen to Drives the Common Man on Spotify.