Wayne Forseth

Wayne Forseth grew up in East Vancouver, BC, where his deep-rooted love for music took shape. As the lead singer for Crackers (1969–1973) and later the bass player for Backstreet in the late 1970s, Wayne established himself as a dynamic presence in British Columbia’s thriving music scene. In 1980, Wayne began an extraordinary journey with Long & McQuade Music. Starting in Vancouver, he soon moved to Victoria in 1984 to manage the local store, where he spent 24 successful years fostering a community of musicians and artists. His leadership led to a promotion as BC District Manager, a role he held until retiring in 2020 after an impressive 40-year career. Wayne’s artistic pursuits extended beyond his professional life. In 1995, he co-owned a coffee shop in Victoria, creating a space for the city’s creative minds. From 1997 to 1999, he co-founded Mad Squirrel Records, producing compilation albums that showcased talented BC singer-songwriters. Many of these artists were discovered during Open Stage nights at Pluto’s Diner, which Wayne hosted throughout the 1990s. This popular venue became a cornerstone for local musicians. Wayne also ventured into television, serving as... more...