Canadian-born jazz vocalist Heather Ward has released her newest single, a stunning reinterpretation of RUSH’s iconic anthem “Closer to the Heart,” from her recently released debut solo album Honeysweet. This track is not only a creative milestone but also a deeply personal tribute that bridges her musical roots with her artistic present.

The choice to include the RUSH classic was more than a musical decision — it was a nostalgic nod to Heather’s past and the enduring love story that helped inspire Honeysweet. “Dave, my partner, took me to my very first rock concert when I was 15 — it was RUSH, live in a hockey arena in London, Ontario. It doesn’t get more Canadian than that!” she recalls. The concert left a lasting impact, and when Heather began crafting Honeysweet, she knew she wanted to include Canadian content that reflected her formative years. “RUSH was an obvious choice.”

Blending her jazz sensibility with the progressive rock legacy of RUSH, Heather collaborated with her youngest child — a recent graduate of Berklee College of Music — to reharmonize the track. The result is a richly layered, emotionally resonant version of “Closer to the Heart” that stands as one of the album’s standout moments.

Heather Ward has been a beloved figure in Seattle’s jazz, cabaret, and theater scenes since 1997. Though Canadian by birth, she began performing while attending art school and eventually pursued formal music studies at Vancouver Community College and Capilano University, where she earned a degree in Jazz Performance. Her career has included training with jazz greats like Sheila Jordan, Hugh Fraser, and Jay Clayton, and performances at festivals such as Vancouver’s DuMaurier International Jazz Festival.

Heather also teaches private voice lessons as a member of NATS (National Association of Teachers of Singing) and continues to perform throughout Seattle.

“Closer to the Heart” is more than a reinterpretation — it’s a celebration of musical legacy, family collaboration, and heartfelt artistry. With Honeysweet, Heather Ward delivers a debut that is as personal as it is powerful.

Listen to “Closer to the Heart” now on all streaming platforms.
Honeysweet is available everywhere music is streamed or sold.