Shania Twain
Shania Twain
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Overview

Eilleen Regina 'Shania' Twain OC, the iconic Canadian singer and songwriter, is one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Her fusion of country and pop elements revolutionized the country music landscape and cemented her place as a global superstar. This timeline traces her journey from humble beginnings in Timmins, Ontario, to her rise as a multi-platinum recording artist, highlighting key moments that shaped her career and personal life.
Main Milestones
Birth in Windsor, Ontario
August 28, 1965
Eilleen Regina Edwards was born in Windsor, Ontario, Canada. She had a difficult childhood marked by poverty and, at times, hunger. When she was 2 her parents divorced and her mother Sharon married Jerry Twain, who adopted Eilleen and her sisters. This event marked the start of what would become the Twain family, and Jerry became a supportive father figure, helping nurture Eilleen's burgeoning musical talent.
Early Musical Development & Family Support
Early Childhood - Teenage Years
From a young age, Shania showed a natural aptitude for music. She began singing in local bars and clubs as a child to help support her family, often performing late into the night. Jerry Twain, her adoptive father, recognized her talent and made sacrifices to provide her with opportunities, including guitar lessons and performance gigs. These early experiences honed her performance skills and instilled a strong work ethic.
Tragedy and Responsibility
1987
A devastating blow struck when Shania's mother and adoptive father were tragically killed in a car accident. At just 21 years old, Shania became the legal guardian of her younger siblings, assuming responsibility for their well-being. She put her musical ambitions on hold and took a job performing at the Deerhurst Resort in Huntsville, Ontario, to provide for her family. This period demonstrated her selflessness and resilience.
Debut Album and Nashville Move
1993
After several years of balancing family responsibilities and performing, Shania signed with Mercury Nashville Records. Her self-titled debut album, "Shania Twain", was released in 1993. While it didn't achieve immediate commercial success, it introduced her to the country music scene and garnered positive reviews, paving the way for future collaborations and recognition within the industry. This marked her official start as a recording artist. She had written or co-written 8 of the 10 songs on the album.
Collaboration with Mutt Lange and Breakthrough Success
1993-2001
Shania's career skyrocketed after she began working with record producer Robert John 'Mutt' Lange. Their collaboration resulted in a string of highly successful albums that blended country and pop elements: "The Woman in Me" (1995), "Come On Over" (1997), and "Up!" (2002). These albums broke sales records and established her as a global superstar, earning her numerous awards and critical acclaim. She became one of the best-selling female artists in music history.
Vocal Issues and Lyme Disease Diagnosis
2008
Shania experienced a severe loss of vocal strength which lead to a diagnosis of dysphonia and Lyme disease. This health challenge significantly impacted her ability to sing and perform. This health struggle kept her out of the spotlight for several years as she underwent treatment and rehabilitation, and she spoke openly about the emotional and professional toll it took on her.
Resurgence and Ongoing Career
2012 - Present
After overcoming her health challenges, Shania made a triumphant return to the music scene. She released her autobiography, "From This Moment On", in 2011, followed by a Las Vegas residency in 2012. She has since released new music, including the albums "Now" (2017) and "Queen of Me" (2023), and continued to tour extensively, proving her enduring appeal and resilience. The "Queen of Me" album was created to bring positivity and light to her audience.