Langley Profile: Dallas Smith, from the Rink to Radio

By Jenny Holly Hansen | WBN News | April 14, 2025

When people think of Dallas Smith, most picture the chart-topping country artist whose voice has become a fixture on Canadian airwaves. But before he was winning awards and packing concert halls, Dallas was just another young athlete chasing the dream—a hockey player from Langley, B.C., with big aspirations and a work ethic to match.

What makes his story stand out isn’t just the success he’s had in two fiercely competitive industries—it’s how grounded he’s remained in the community that raised him.

A Hockey Player at Heart

Before the world knew him for his powerful vocals and emotionally charged songs, Dallas was lacing up his skates and grinding it out on the ice. He grew up in Langley, immersed in the local hockey culture that defines so much of life in the Lower Mainland.

As a forward, Dallas played junior hockey with the Delta Ice Hawks and the Surrey Eagles, gaining a reputation for being hardworking and disciplined. While he didn’t make a career out of professional sports, the lessons he learned on the ice—resilience, teamwork, and perseverance—would later become the foundation for his musical journey.

Transitioning to Music: Default and Beyond

Dallas found a second calling in music and rose to fame in the early 2000s as the lead singer of Default, a post-grunge rock band that quickly climbed the charts with hits like Wasting My Time and Deny. The band toured extensively and earned a Juno Award, giving Dallas his first taste of national recognition.

But even with fame, he stayed closely tied to his Langley roots—often returning home between tours and always speaking highly of the place where it all began.

A Country Star Is Born

In a surprising yet seamless shift, Dallas transitioned into country music, launching a solo career that would solidify his place as one of Canada’s top male country artists. With multiple No. 1 singles, platinum albums, and CCMA Awards under his belt, Dallas became a household name—without losing touch with where he came from.

Langley has remained a key part of his identity. Whether it's giving shout-outs to his hometown on stage or supporting local causes, Dallas has never forgotten his roots. His songs often touch on themes of small-town life, loyalty, and personal growth—elements that resonate deeply with those who know and love Langley.

Giving Back to the Community

Dallas Smith isn’t just a hometown hero because of his success—he’s earned that title through his actions. In 2022, he launched the Lifted Dallas Smith Charitable Foundation, which supports mental health services across B.C., including programs right here in the Fraser Valley. By leveraging his platform to support meaningful causes, Dallas continues to give back in a way that feels both personal and purposeful.

He’s also been involved in local initiatives, including concerts and fundraising events in support of Langley families, minor hockey, and community wellness.

Final Thoughts

Dallas Smith’s story is a reminder that success doesn’t have to mean leaving your community behind. From his early days on Langley’s ice rinks to the global stage of music, he’s carried the values of his hometown with him—hard work, humility, and heart.

For those of us who live and work in Langley, Dallas is more than a celebrity—he’s a reflection of what this community stands for: strong roots, big dreams, and the courage to chase them both.

Let’s Keep Talking:

Jenny is a business insurance broker with Waypoint Insurance.

She is also a business development consultant with Impresario Partners, helping Canadian Business expand overseas.

She can be reached at 604-317-6755 or jhansen@waypoint.ca. Connect with Jenny on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-holly-hansen-365b691b/.  Connect with Jenny at BlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/jennyhollyhansen.bsky.social

Let’s Meet Up:

Jenny Holly Hansen is a cohost with Chris Sturges of the Langley Impact Networking Group. You are welcome to join us on Thursday’s from 4pm to 6pm at: Sidebar Bar and Grill: 100b - 20018 83A Avenue, Langley, BC V2Y 3R4

Tags:  #Jenny Holly Hansen #Langley is Awesome #Dallas Smith #Chart Topping Country Artist #Hockey Player #Delta Ice Hawks #Surrey Eagles