Happy Canada Day - 5 Canadian rockers and 2 honorable mentions

July 1 marks the anniversary of the Canadian Confederation, known as Canada Day. Fans of rock and roll can thank Canada for some amazing contributions to the world of music. Let's take a look at some amazing Canadian Rockers.

Rush

Rush, originally formed in Toronto in 1968 and by 1974, would settle on the power trio of Geddy Lee (bass, keyboards, vocals), Alex Lifeson (guitar), and Neil Peart (drums, percussion, lyricist). The band would succeed in the 1970s and carry on through the 1990s with chart-topping albums in the US, Canada, and the UK. Never a radio band, Rush's legacy has been carried on by the dedication of its fans. The band is known for its musical talent in the progressive rock genre.

Bryan Adams

Canadian singer, songwriter, and record producer Bryan Adams is listed as one of the best-selling music artists ever. His first album, Cuts Like a Knife, would rise to popularity with the title track single and "Straight From The Heart" ballad. Adams also holds one of the best-selling singles of all time with this 1991 song "(Everything I Do) I Do It For You" from the Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves soundtrack. It went to No. 1 in over 19 countries.

The Guess Who

The Guess Who hails from Winnipeg, Manitoba, and found its success in the 60s and 70s. During the height of their career, they would release 11 studio albums which all charted in the US and Canada. The band's hit songs include "American Woman," "These Eyes," and "No Time." Although the band officially broke up in 1975, bassist Jim Kale and drummer Garry Peterson have toured and recorded under The Guess Who since 1977.

Triumph

Formed in 1975, Triumph would see its success in the late 70s and 80s and built its fame as a live band. The band would be known for its covers, such as "Rocky Mountain Way," but were known for its guitar rock sounds of "Lay It on the Line," "Magic Power," and "Fight the Good Fight." Triumph produced 16 albums and DVDs, earning the band 18 gold and nine platinum awards in the US and Canada.

Bachman-Turner Overdrive

BTO was founded by brothers Randy Bachman, Robbie Bachman, Tim Bachman, and Fred Turner in 1973. Fans of the band are known as "Gearheads" from the band's gear-shaped logo, and BTO is a regularly heard band on classic rock radio. The best hits are "Let It Ride," "You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet," "Takin' Care of Business," "Hey You," and "Roll on Down the Highway."

Two Canadian musician honorable mentions

Joni Mitchell

While not a rocker at all, Joni Mitchell is a Canadian-American musician who has influenced various musical genres. Her lyrics are personal and hit a chord with her listeners still to this day. Throughout her career, she has won 10 Grammy Awards and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1997.

Nickelback

While not everyone's cup of tea, Canadian rocker's Nickelback have achieved commercial success. They have become the butt of many jokes due to their music's repetitive and hedonistic nature, but there is no denying that someone is listening to them. The band provides just the right amount of racy lyrics balanced with morals and rockin' music to please audiences.

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