Former Canadian Idol contestant from Cape Breton drops debut album

Cape Breton musician Tyler Mullendore has released his debut album.

Cape Breton singer-songwriter Tyler Mullendore has officially released his debut album, called “Time Heals Everything.”

The six-track EP, released on Nov. 21, has been a long-time coming for the artist, who first gained national attention nearly two decades ago as a contestant on Canadian Idol.

“It took a long time … I’ve had a lot of ups and downs, twists and turns, and soul searching,” Mullendore said.

Mullendore was just 19-years old when he auditioned for Canadian Idol in 2007, making it through the early rounds with his confidence and charisma as much as his musical talent. He was eventually sent to Toronto, where he got his first taste of life in the spotlight – staying at the Fairmont Royal York, getting recognized on the street, and experiencing what it was like to be in the national music scene.

“It was enlightening. It helped me get my confidence and come into my own as an artist.”

Back home, the support from the Maritimes was overwhelming. Mullendore’s hometown fans were so eager to vote for him that they crashed the phone lines.

“People literally couldn’t get a dial tone because there were so many trying to vote,” he said. “Cape Breton was in an uproar.”

Despite the early exposure, Mullendore’s journey to his first album took longer than expected. While he continued to write and perform over the years, he admits that discipline wasn’t always his strong suit.

“I had my fun in my 20s … but now I’ve got my big boy pants on, and I’m finally getting things done.”

That focus led to “Time Heals Everything,” a project that blends classic rock influences with singer-songwriter, folk, and roots sounds. The EP explores themes of loss, resilience, addiction, and healing, all drawn from his personal experiences.

“The main theme is that life gets better – there’s a light at the end of the tunnel.”

Now 37, Mullendore is already looking ahead to what’s next. He’s already working on another four song EP set for release later this year.

“It took me a long time to get going, but now I’m rolling,” he said. “I’m not stopping now.”

“Time Heals Everything” is available now on streaming platforms.

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