Canadian musicians who were born in 1944
Here are 19 famous musicians from Canada were born in 1944:
Daniel Johnson, Jr.
Daniel Johnson, Jr. (December 24, 1944 Montreal-) is a Canadian politician and lawyer.
He is best known for serving as the 25th Premier of Quebec from 1994 to 1996. Johnson comes from a family of politicians, his father, Daniel Johnson Sr., served as Premier of Quebec in the 1960s. Johnson studied law at Université Laval and later became a lawyer specializing in corporate law. He entered politics in 1981 and became the Member of the National Assembly for the riding of Vaudreuil-Soulanges. Throughout his political career, Johnson held various positions such as Minister of Industry, Commerce, Science and Technology, Minister of Labour, and Minister of Finance. He was also the leader of the Quebec Liberal Party from 1993 to 1998. After resigning as Premier, Johnson returned to his law practice and remained active in politics.
During his tenure as Premier of Quebec, Johnson faced multiple challenges, including issues related to language, culture, and sovereignty. He was a proponent of Canadian federalism and made efforts to improve relations between Quebec and the rest of Canada during his time in office.
In addition to his legal and political career, Johnson has been involved in various business ventures. He is the co-founder of a successful law firm in Montreal and has served on the boards of several corporations.
Johnson has received numerous honors throughout his career, including recognition for his contributions to Canadian federalism and his efforts to improve the economy of Quebec. He has also been recognized for his advocacy on behalf of the Franco-Ontarian community, which is one of Canada's minority language communities.
Johnson continues to be an important figure in Quebec politics and regularly participates in public discussions on issues related to language, culture, and national unity. He is widely respected for his intelligence, his business acumen, and his commitment to public service.
In addition, Johnson also played an important role in negotiations leading up to the 1995 Quebec referendum on sovereignty. He worked to find a compromise between the federal government and Quebec separatists, and his efforts were credited with helping to prevent the province from seceding from Canada. Johnson has continued to be involved in promoting Canadian unity and has spoken out in opposition to future secession referendums.
Johnson's contributions to Quebec and Canada have been recognized by numerous organizations, including the Canadian Club of Montreal and the Canadian Bar Association. He has also been awarded honorary degrees from several universities, including Concordia and McGill.
Outside of his professional and political pursuits, Johnson is known for his love of sports. He played hockey and lacrosse in his youth and remains an avid golfer. He has also been involved in various charitable organizations, including children's hospitals and cancer research centers.
Overall, Daniel Johnson, Jr. has led a distinguished career marked by his commitment to public service, his advocacy for Canadian federalism, and his accomplishments in business and law.
Throughout his career, Johnson has been recognized for his leadership and dedication to improving the lives of Quebecers. He played a key role in negotiating the withdrawal of Canadian Forces from Quebec, a move that helped to ease tensions between Quebec and the federal government. Additionally, he worked to improve the infrastructure of the province, investing heavily in transportation and education.
Johnson's commitment to public service also extends to his work in the community. He has been involved in various organizations that focus on improving the lives of children, including the Breakfast Club of Canada and the Montreal Children's Hospital Foundation.
In recent years, Johnson has continued to be active in Canadian politics, often weighing in on issues related to national unity, bilingualism, and cultural diversity. He remains a respected voice in Quebec and across the country, respected for his intelligence, leadership, and principled approach to public service.
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Brian Linehan
Brian Linehan (September 3, 1944 Hamilton-June 4, 2004 Toronto) also known as The Charlie Rose of Canada, Brian Richard Linehan or Brock Linehan was a Canadian actor and film producer.
He was best known, however, for his work as a television host and celebrity interviewer. Linehan hosted several popular Canadian TV programs, including City Lights and the Gemini Award-winning program, The Brian Linehan Show. He was renowned for his insightful and engaging interviews with some of the biggest names in show business, including Martin Scorsese, Elizabeth Taylor, and Bette Davis. In addition to his successful television career, Linehan also wrote for several Canadian magazines and newspapers, including Maclean's and The Toronto Star. Throughout his career, he earned numerous accolades, including induction into the Order of Canada in 1996. Linehan passed away in 2004 at the age of 59, leaving behind a lasting legacy as one of Canada's most beloved and respected media personalities.
Linehan was born in Hamilton, Ontario and grew up in St. Catharines, Ontario. He began his career in the entertainment industry as an actor, appearing in several Canadian stage productions before transitioning to television. Linehan's first major role was in the Canadian drama series, Kingswood Country. He later produced and acted in several films, including the 1975 horror movie, Rituals.
Linehan's success as a television host was due in large part to his unique interviewing style. He was known for his ability to engage his guests in intimate and candid conversations, eliciting insights and stories that other interviewers often missed. His talent and charm earned him a loyal following of fans and admirers, both in Canada and around the world.
Throughout his career, Linehan remained committed to promoting Canadian culture and talent. He made it a priority to feature Canadian artists and performers on his shows, championing their work and bringing them to a wider audience. His dedication to Canadian arts and culture earned him the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences Special Achievement Award in 1987.
After his death in 2004, Linehan's contributions to Canadian television and culture were widely celebrated. In addition to his induction into the Order of Canada, his legacy was honored with the establishment of the Brian Linehan Charitable Foundation, which supports a range of charitable causes in Canada, including the arts, healthcare, and education.
Linehan was also known for his close friendships with several Hollywood stars, including Elizabeth Taylor, whom he interviewed numerous times throughout her career. He was also good friends with Bette Davis, who once famously quipped that Linehan was the only interviewer who had ever asked her a question she hadn't been asked before.Linehan's impact on Canadian television and media is still felt today, with current hosts citing him as an inspiration and mentor. His legacy as a passionate advocate for Canadian arts and culture continues to be celebrated, making him one of the most influential and respected figures in Canadian media history.
Despite his successful career in entertainment, Linehan was also known for his philanthropy and activism. He was a vocal advocate for LGBT rights and HIV/AIDS awareness, using his platform to raise awareness and challenge stigma. In the early 1990s, Linehan was diagnosed with HIV, and he became an important figure in the Canadian HIV/AIDS community. He worked with several organizations, including Casey House, Canada's first stand-alone HIV/AIDS hospice, and the Elton John AIDS Foundation. Linehan's openness and courage in discussing his illness helped reduce stigma and increased awareness about the disease in Canada.Linehan was also passionate about supporting young people in the arts. He created the Brian Linehan Actors' Award, which was presented annually to a young actor or actress who showed exceptional promise. The award helped launch the careers of several Canadian actors, including Sarah Polley and Tatum O'Neal.In addition to his philanthropic work, Linehan was also an accomplished author. He published a memoir, "Conversations with Brian Linehan," which chronicled his interviews with some of Hollywood's biggest stars. The book was a best-seller in Canada and earned critical acclaim for its engaging and insightful writing style.
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Terry Jacks
Terry Jacks (March 29, 1944 Winnipeg-) also known as Jacks, Terry, Terrence Ross Jacks, Terry or The Poppy Family is a Canadian singer-songwriter, record producer, guitarist, film producer and musician.
His discography includes: Into the Past, Seasons in the Sun, If You Go Away / Me and You, Y' Don't Fight The Sea, Seasons in the Sun, Just Like That and Pulse. His related genres: Rock music, Pop music and Soft rock.
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Bill Henderson
Bill Henderson (November 6, 1944 Vancouver-) also known as Henderson, Bill, William A. Henderson, Bill, Henderson or William A. "Bill" Henderson is a Canadian singer, songwriter, musician and guitarist. His children are Saffron Henderson and Camille Henderson.
Genres related to him: Rock music.
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Catherine McKinnon
Catherine McKinnon (May 14, 1944 Saint John-) is a Canadian singer and actor.
She grew up in Nova Scotia and began her career as a singer in the 1960s, releasing several albums throughout the decade. McKinnon also made appearances on television variety shows and in films. She became a regular on the CBC musical series "Singalong Jubilee" in the late 1960s, and in 1971, she won the Juno Award for Best Female Vocalist. In the 1980s, McKinnon shifted her focus to acting, making appearances in Canadian TV shows and films, as well as on stage. She is perhaps best known for her role as Mrs. Bird in the 1990s TV series "Road to Avonlea." McKinnon has also been involved in various charitable organizations throughout her career.
In addition to her accomplished singing and acting career, Catherine McKinnon has been passionate about using her creativity to give back to her community. She has worked with organizations such as the Canadian Cancer Society and the United Way, using her talents to raise money and awareness for important causes. In 1993, she founded the Catherine McKinnon Foundation, which aims to support Canadian artists and musicians by providing grants and other resources. McKinnon has received numerous accolades for her contributions to the arts and her philanthropic work, including the Order of Nova Scotia and the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal. Despite retiring from acting in the early 2000s, she continues to be celebrated and respected for her immense talent and her dedication to making a positive impact in her industry and in her community.
In addition to her musical and acting career, Catherine McKinnon also has a passion for writing. She has authored several works, including "Her Celtic Heritage," which explores her Scottish and Irish roots. McKinnon has also been actively involved in advocating for the preservation of local culture and heritage in her hometown of Saint John, New Brunswick. She served on the Saint John Cultural Plan Task Force and has advocated for the preservation of historic buildings and landmarks in the city.
McKinnon's impact on Canadian culture has been significant, earning her multiple recognitions including a star on Canada's Walk of Fame. She has also been inducted into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame and was recognized with the East Coast Music Awards Lifetime Achievement Award. Today, Catherine McKinnon remains a revered figure in the Canadian arts and entertainment industry, remembered not only for her impressive talent, but also for her unwavering commitment to giving back to her community.
Aside from her various contributions to the arts and her philanthropic work, Catherine McKinnon has also been an advocate for women and their rights. In 2003, she was appointed to the Order of Canada for her efforts in this field. She has given talks and speeches on gender equality and has been a strong voice for women in Canada. Additionally, McKinnon has been involved in environmental activism, advocating for sustainable living and the preservation of natural resources. She has been recognized for her environmental work, receiving the Lewis & Ruth Sherman Foundation Prize for Environmental Leadership in 2011. Over the course of her impressive career, Catherine McKinnon has made a notable impact in both the arts and philanthropic communities, and her legacy continues to inspire others to make positive change in the world.
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Les Emmerson
Les Emmerson (September 17, 1944 Ottawa-) is a Canadian singer and musician.
He is best known as the lead singer and songwriter for the Canadian rock band Five Man Electrical Band. The band was famous for the hit songs "Signs" and "Absolutely Right" in the 1970s. Les Emmerson also released several solo albums and worked as a producer and songwriter for other musicians. In addition to music, he is an environmental activist and founded the non-profit organization Artists Against Racism. He was inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2021.
Les Emmerson began his musical career as a teenager, playing in local bands around Ottawa. In 1963, he formed the band The Stacattos, which later became Five Man Electrical Band. The band's breakthrough hit, "Signs," was released in 1971 and became a protest anthem for many young people at the time. It reached #3 in Canada and #4 in the US. The follow-up single, "Absolutely Right," was another top 10 hit.
Emmerson released his self-titled solo debut album in 1975, which included the hit single "Control of Me." He continued to release solo albums throughout the 1970s and 1980s, blending rock and pop influences. As a songwriter and producer, he worked with many Canadian artists, such as Tommy Hunter and Ronnie Prophet.
Outside of music, Les Emmerson has been active in environmental causes for many years. He founded the non-profit organization Clean Air Foundation and served as its CEO from 1999 to 2005. He also founded Artists Against Racism in response to the events of 9/11, which has since organized many anti-racism campaigns and events.
In 2021, Les Emmerson was inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, recognizing his contributions to Canadian music over the past five decades. He continues to perform and record music, as well as advocate for social and environmental causes.
Emmerson has also written music for film and television, including the theme song for the Canadian television series The Littlest Hobo. In 1990, he released the album "What's Forever For," which featured a duet with country music legend Willie Nelson. Emmerson's music has been covered by several well-known artists, including Tesla and Eddy Grant.
Aside from his musical and environmental work, Emmerson is also a published author. In 2017, he released his memoir "All the Way Home," which chronicles his life and experiences in the music industry. The book was well-received and praised for its candid and engaging storytelling.
Les Emmerson's impact on Canadian music and culture cannot be overstated. His lyrics and melodies have resonated with audiences for over five decades, and his dedication to environmental and social causes continues to inspire and motivate others. He remains an important figure in Canadian music and a beloved icon to his fans.
Throughout his lengthy career in the music industry, Les Emmerson has collaborated with various other musicians and artists. He worked with rock band Rush on their song "Tears" from the 1976 album "2112," and also co-wrote the song "Good Thing Going" for singer Celine Dion's self-titled album in 1992. Additionally, he has appeared on numerous television and radio programs as a guest musician, including the Canadian music variety show "The Tommy Hunter Show."
Emmerson's commitment to social and environmental activism has also earned him several accolades and awards. In 2005, the Canadian government recognized his contributions to the anti-smoking movement with a National Health Award. He has also received honors from the Canadian Institute for Environmental Law and Policy, and the United Nations Association in Canada.
Despite facing health challenges, including a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease, Les Emmerson continues to perform live and record music. In 2020, he released a new album called "A Brand New Tomorrow," which features original songs as well as new recordings of some of his classic hits. The album was well-received by fans and critics alike, showcasing Emmerson's enduring talent as a singer and songwriter.
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Robert Charlebois
Robert Charlebois (June 25, 1944 Montreal-) otherwise known as Charlebois, Robert is a Canadian film score composer, actor, musician, author and singer-songwriter.
His most important albums: Charlebois, 1ère Période, Volume 2, Doux sauvage, Immensément, La Maudite Tournée, Le meilleur de Charlebois, Le Meilleur de Charlebois, Volume 2, Longue distance, Quebec Love, Solidaritude and Version Originale.
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Diane Dufresne
Diane Dufresne (September 30, 1944 Montreal-) also known as Dufresne, Diane is a Canadian singer.
Her most important albums: Diane, Détournement majeur, Diane Dufresne, Volume 1, Diane Dufresne, Volume 2, Follement Vôtre, Les Grands Succès, Merci, Mon premier show (disc 2), Effusions and Maman si tu m'voyais....
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Jesse Winchester
Jesse Winchester (May 17, 1944 Bossier City-April 11, 2014 Charlottesville) also known as Winchester, Jesse was a Canadian singer.
His discography includes: Jesse Winchester, Let the Rough Side Drag, Humor Me, Third Down, 110 to Go, Live at The Bijou Cafe, Nothing but a Breeze, A Touch on the Rainy Side, Love Filling Station, Gentleman Of Leisure and Anthology. Genres he performed include Country, Country rock and Folk music.
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Rita MacNeil
Rita MacNeil (May 28, 1944 Big Pond, Nova Scotia-April 16, 2013 Sydney) otherwise known as MacNeil, Rita or Rita MacNeil, CM, ONS was a Canadian singer and presenter.
Her most important albums: Flying on Your Own, Home I'll Be, Joyful Sounds, The Christmas EP, Thinking of You, Volume One, Songs From the Collection, Reason to Believe, Now the Bells Ring, Rita and Late December. Her related genres: Folk music and Country.
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Mendelson Joe
Mendelson Joe (July 30, 1944 Maple, Ontario-) is a Canadian singer.
His most recognized albums: .
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Andy Vine
Andy Vine (April 26, 1944 Swansea-) is a Canadian , .
Genres related to him: Folk rock.
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Robert Benoit
Robert Benoit (April 11, 1944 Canada-) is a Canadian , .
Robert Benoit is a Canadian professional wrestler, better known by his ring name "Gino Brito". Born on April 11, 1944, in Quebec, Canada, he was the son of another professional wrestler, Édouard Carpentier. Brito started his wrestling career during the 1960s and worked for various promotions across North America, including the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and the National Wrestling Alliance (NWA).
Throughout his career, Brito won several tag team championships with various partners, including Dino Bravo and Tony Parisi. He also had success as a promoter, co-founding International Wrestling in Montreal, which became one of the top wrestling promotions in Canada during the 1980s.
After retiring from the ring, Brito remained involved in the wrestling industry, helping train young wrestlers and promoting shows in his home province of Quebec. He was inducted into the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2016, in recognition of his contributions to the sport.
Aside from his accomplishments in professional wrestling, Brito was also known for his philanthropic work in his community. He co-founded the Quebec based charity organization "Fight for Kids" which aimed to provide underprivileged children with the opportunity to participate in sports and recreational activities. Brito's contributions in the charity work earned him the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012, which is awarded to Canadians who have made significant contributions to their community and country. Brito passed away on September 11, 2019, at the age of 75, leaving behind a legacy as a beloved figure in the wrestling industry and a compassionate community leader.
Gino Brito was known for his technical skills in the ring and his ability to connect with fans. He was one of the pioneers of wrestling in Canada and helped shape the industry in the country. In addition to his success as a wrestler and promoter, Brito was also a successful businessman. He owned a chain of grocery stores in Quebec and was involved in various other business ventures. Brito was married with two children and was a devoted family man. Despite his success and fame, he remained humble and approachable, and was beloved by fans and colleagues alike. His passing was mourned by the wrestling community and fans around the world, who remembered him as a true legend of the sport.
During his wrestling career, Gino Brito was known for his signature move, the "Brito Bomb", a sit-out powerbomb that he used to devastating effect against his opponents. He was also a skilled trainer, having mentored future wrestling stars like Kevin Owens and Sami Zayn. Brito was respected by his peers in the industry, both for his tremendous skill as a wrestler and his kindness and generosity outside of the ring. His contributions to the sport of wrestling, as well as his tireless work on behalf of the less fortunate in his community, have left a lasting legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
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Zal Yanovsky
Zal Yanovsky (December 19, 1944 Toronto-December 13, 2002 Kingston) also known as Zalman Yanovsky, Yanovsky, Zal, Zalman "Zal" Yanovsky, Lovin' Spoonful or The Lovin' Spoonful was a Canadian songwriter, musician, singer, actor, film score composer and restaurateur. He had one child, Zoe Yanovsky.
His discography includes: Alive and Well in Argentina. Genres: Rock and roll.
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Anna McGarrigle
Anna McGarrigle (December 4, 1944 Montreal-) otherwise known as McGarrigle, Anna or The McGarrigle Sisters is a Canadian singer, film score composer and singer-songwriter. She has two children, Sylvan Lanken and Lily Lanken.
Genres she performed: Folk music.
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John Kay
John Kay (April 12, 1944 Sovetsk-) otherwise known as Joachim Fritz Krauledat is a Canadian singer, record producer, songwriter and guitarist.
Related albums: Forgotten Songs & Unsung Heroes, Heretics and Privateers and My Sportin' Life. Genres related to him: Rock music, Blues, Folk music, Psychedelic rock and Heavy metal.
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Bernie Finkelstein
Bernie Finkelstein (August 12, 1944 Toronto-) is a Canadian music executive and talent manager.
He is best known for co-founding True North Records in 1969, which went on to become one of the most successful independent record labels in Canada. Finkelstein is also known for managing several iconic Canadian artists such as Bruce Cockburn, Murray McLauchlan, and Dan Hill. Throughout his career, he has been a strong advocate for Canadian music and has played an important role in shaping the Canadian music industry. In recognition of his contributions, Finkelstein was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 2007. He continues to work in the music industry and is also a vocal advocate for various social and political causes.
Finkelstein began his career in the music industry as a promoter, working for acts such as The Paupers and The Mandala. In 1969, he co-founded True North Records with Bruce Cockburn, a label that quickly gained recognition for its commitment to Canadian musicians and their unique sound. Through his work at True North, Finkelstein helped launch several successful careers in Canadian music, including those of Buffy Sainte-Marie, Rough Trade, and The Rheostatics.
In addition to being a successful music executive and manager, Finkelstein has also been an active voice in advocating for Canadian content regulations in broadcasting, which have been crucial to the development and success of the Canadian music industry. He has also worked to promote various social and environmental causes, including Indigenous rights, animal welfare, and climate change.
Finkelstein has received numerous awards and accolades for his work in the music industry and his contributions to Canadian culture, including the Order of Canada in 2006. He remains an influential figure in the Canadian music industry and a respected advocate for important causes.
Finkelstein's contributions to the music industry have been widely recognized, and he has been the recipient of several honorary doctorates, including one from Ryerson University. He has also been a member of several industry organizations, including the Canadian Independent Music Association and the Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences.
Outside of his work in the music industry, Finkelstein has been involved in various philanthropic endeavors. He has supported several charitable organizations, including War Child Canada, which helps children affected by war, and Artists Against Racism, which uses art to promote social harmony.
Finkelstein is also known for his advocacy for the legalization of marijuana in Canada. He has publicly supported the movement to decriminalize and regulate marijuana use, and has argued that it could provide significant benefits for the economy and public health.
Overall, Finkelstein's career has been marked by a deep commitment to music, culture, and social justice. He continues to be involved in the music industry, but also in advocating for important causes and making a positive impact in the world.
Finkelstein has also authored a memoir titled "True North: A Life in the Music Business", which was published in 2017. In the book, Finkelstein shares his experiences of working with some of Canada's most iconic musicians, as well as his thoughts on the music industry and its evolution over the years. He also provides insights into his personal life and the challenges he faced both professionally and personally. The book was a success and received critical acclaim, with many praising Finkelstein's honesty and candidness. Finkelstein continues to be an important figure in the Canadian music industry, and his legacy as a manager, label owner, and advocate for Canadian music and causes continues to inspire and influence others in the industry.
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Peter Leitch
Peter Leitch (August 19, 1944-) also known as Leitch, Peter is a Canadian guitarist, composer, photographer, music teacher and music director.
Discography: Trio - Quartet '91, From Another Perspective, Sometime in Another Life and Jump Street.
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Pat LaBarbera
Pat LaBarbera (April 7, 1944 Mount Morris-) a.k.a. LaBarbera, Pat is a Canadian singer and musician.
His most recognized albums: Deep in a Dream. Genres he performed: Jazz.
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