Canada has a rich history of country music, producing artists who have made significant contributions to the genre both nationally and internationally. From legendary pioneers to contemporary chart-toppers, Canadian country musicians have shaped the sound and soul of country music. This article highlights 36 Canadian country artists who have left their mark on the industry.
36 Great Canadian Country Artists
1. Shania Twain
Born in Windsor, Ontario, Shania Twain is one of the best-selling female artists in country music history. Her 1997 album Come On Over became the best-selling studio album by a female act in any genre. Twain’s blend of country and pop has influenced countless artists and expanded the genre’s global reach.
2. Anne Murray
Anne Murray, hailing from Springhill, Nova Scotia, was the first Canadian female solo singer to reach No.1 on the U.S. charts. Her 1970 hit “Snowbird” paved the way for future Canadian artists in the international music scene. Murray’s smooth vocals and crossover appeal earned her multiple Grammy and Juno Awards.
3. Hank Snow
Known as “The Singing Ranger,” Hank Snow was born in Brooklyn, Nova Scotia. He recorded over 140 albums and had more than 85 singles on the Billboard country charts between 1950 and 1980. His 1950 hit “I’m Moving On” remained at No.1 for 21 weeks, a record that still stands today.
4. Terri Clark
Terri Clark, from Medicine Hat, Alberta, rose to fame in the 1990s with hits like “Better Things to Do.” She became the first Canadian female member of the Grand Ole Opry. Clark continues to tour and has been recognized for her contributions to country music with multiple awards.
5. Michelle Wright
Michelle Wright, born in Chatham, Ontario, achieved success in both Canada and the U.S. Her 1992 single “Take It Like a Man” reached the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Wright’s soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics have earned her a place in the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame.
6. k.d. lang
Kathryn Dawn Lang, known as k.d. lang, is a genre-defying artist from Consort, Alberta. Her unique blend of country, pop, and torch songs has garnered critical acclaim. Lang’s 1988 album Shadowland and her collaboration with Roy Orbison on “Crying” showcased her powerful vocals and versatility.
7. Paul Brandt
Paul Brandt, from Calgary, Alberta, became the first Canadian male country artist to reach the Top 10 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart with his 1996 debut single “My Heart Has a History.” Brandt’s storytelling and philanthropic efforts have solidified his status as a beloved figure in Canadian country music.
8. Gord Bamford
Gord Bamford, born in Australia and raised in Lacombe, Alberta, is known for his traditional country sound. He has won multiple Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA) Awards and continues to produce hits like “When Your Lips Are So Close.” Bamford’s commitment to classic country themes resonates with fans across Canada.
9. Dean Brody
Dean Brody, originally from Jaffray, British Columbia, has become one of Canada’s leading country artists. His 2009 album Trail in Life featured hits like “Brothers” and “Canadian Girls.” Brody’s blend of modern country and heartfelt ballads has earned him numerous awards and a dedicated fan base.
10. Dallas Smith
Dallas Smith, from Langley, British Columbia, transitioned from rock to country music with great success. As a solo country artist, he has released multiple chart-topping singles, including “Wastin’ Gas” and “Autograph.” Smith’s energetic performances and crossover appeal have made him a staple in Canadian country music.
11. Jess Moskaluke
Jess Moskaluke, hailing from Langenburg, Saskatchewan, is known for her powerful vocals and contemporary country sound. Her 2014 single “Cheap Wine and Cigarettes” became a platinum-selling hit. Moskaluke continues to break barriers as a female artist in the Canadian country scene.
12. High Valley
High Valley is a country duo consisting of brothers Brad and Curtis Rempel from Blumenort, Alberta. Their fusion of country, bluegrass, and pop has led to hits like “Make You Mine.” High Valley’s harmonies and upbeat sound have garnered international attention.OurMusicWorld.com
13. The Reklaws
The Reklaws, siblings Jenna and Stuart Walker from Cambridge, Ontario, have quickly risen in the Canadian country charts. Their 2018 single “Long Live the Night” became an anthem for sports fans and country music lovers alike. The duo’s youthful energy and catchy tunes continue to captivate audiences.
14. MacKenzie Porter
MacKenzie Porter, born in Medicine Hat, Alberta, has made a name for herself in both acting and country music. Her singles “These Days” and “Pickup” have topped Canadian country charts. Porter’s collaborations with artists like Dustin Lynch have expanded her reach into the U.S. market.
15. Johnny Reid
Johnny Reid, originally from Lanark, Scotland, and raised in Canada, is known for his soulful country sound. His heartfelt performances and songs like “Dance with Me” have earned him multiple Juno Awards. Reid’s blend of country and soul continues to resonate with fans.
16. Aaron Pritchett
Aaron Pritchett, from Vancouver, British Columbia, has been a mainstay in Canadian country music for over two decades. His energetic performances and hits like “Big Wheel” have made him a fan favorite. Pritchett’s dedication to his craft keeps him relevant in the evolving country scene.
17. Jason Benoit
Jason Benoit, hailing from Fox Island River, Newfoundland and Labrador, is an Indigenous country artist making waves in the industry. His gold-certified single “Gone Long Gone” showcases his storytelling abilities. Benoit’s contributions are paving the way for more Indigenous representation in country music.
18. Teigen Gayse
Teigen Gayse, a Métis singer-songwriter from British Columbia, brings a fresh perspective to country music. Her relatable lyrics and catchy melodies have garnered attention, making her one to watch in the Canadian country scene.
19. Tim Hicks
Tim Hicks, from Niagara Falls, Ontario, burst onto the scene with his 2012 hit “Get By.” Known for his high-energy performances and rock-infused country sound, Hicks continues to release chart-topping singles and albums.
20. Lindi Ortega
Lindi Ortega, born in Toronto, Ontario, is celebrated for her unique blend of country, folk, and Americana. Her haunting vocals and introspective songwriting have earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
21. Meghan Patrick
Meghan Patrick, from Bowmanville, Ontario, is known for her powerful voice and modern country sound. Her debut album Grace & Grit showcased her songwriting skills and earned her multiple CCMA Awards.
22. George Canyon
George Canyon, hailing from Pictou County, Nova Scotia, gained national recognition as a finalist on Nashville Star. His rich baritone and heartfelt songs have made him a beloved figure in Canadian country music.
23. Carolyn Dawn Johnson
Carolyn Dawn Johnson, from Grande Prairie, Alberta, is a talented singer-songwriter and producer. Her 2001 debut album Room with a View produced several hits, including “Complicated.” Johnson’s contributions extend beyond performing, as she has written songs for other notable artists.
24. Deric Ruttan
Deric Ruttan, born in Bracebridge, Ontario, is a respected songwriter and performer. He has penned hits for artists like Dierks Bentley and Blake Shelton, while also releasing his own successful albums.
25. Patricia Conroy
Patricia Conroy, from Montreal, Quebec, found success in the 1990s with hits like “Somebody’s Leavin’.” Her blend of traditional and contemporary country elements has influenced many Canadian artists.
26. Beverley Mahood
Beverley Mahood, originally from Belfast, Northern Ireland, and raised in Canada, is known for her solo work and as a member of the group Lace. Her contributions to country music extend to television hosting and philanthropy.
27. Charlie Major
Charlie Major, from Aylmer, Quebec, emerged in the early 1990s with heartfelt songs and gritty realism. His debut album The Other Side produced six Top 10 hits in Canada. Major’s no-nonsense lyrics and commitment to traditional country themes have earned him a lasting legacy in the genre.
28. Jimmy Rankin
A member of the legendary Rankin Family from Nova Scotia, Jimmy Rankin is a solo artist and songwriter known for blending country with folk and Celtic influences. Hits like “Followed Her Around” showcase his lyrical depth and Maritime charm. Rankin’s storytelling continues to capture hearts across generations.
29. Tenille Townes
Born in Grande Prairie, Alberta, Tenille Townes has become an international rising star. Her breakout hit “Somebody’s Daughter” earned her acclaim for addressing homelessness through song. With a unique voice and a thoughtful pen, Townes represents the future of meaningful country music.
30. Lindsay Ell
From Calgary, Alberta, Lindsay Ell is a multi-talented guitarist, singer, and songwriter. Her 2017 album The Project debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Country Album Sales chart. Known for her technical guitar skills and emotional lyrics, she is a powerhouse on stage and in the studio.
31. Madeline Merlo
Madeline Merlo, originally from Maple Ridge, British Columbia, blends modern country with pop flair. Her singles like “War Paint” and “Whatcha Wanna Do About It” have resonated with a younger generation. Merlo also gained recognition through her participation in the American songwriting competition show Songland.
32. Brett Kissel
Hailing from Flat Lake, Alberta, Brett Kissel is one of Canada’s most awarded country artists. With hits like “Airwaves” and “Drink About Me,” Kissel is known for his charisma and genre-blending sound. He is a three-time Juno Award winner and a prominent ambassador of Canadian country worldwide.
33. James Barker Band
Formed in Ontario, the James Barker Band quickly gained traction with their debut single “Lawn Chair Lazy.” Their energetic performances and radio-friendly songs like “Chills” and “Keep It Simple” have kept them on the charts. They represent a new wave of Canadian country bands with mass appeal.
34. The Washboard Union
This Vancouver-based trio is known for their distinctive blend of roots, bluegrass, and country. With upbeat tracks like “Shot of Glory” and “Maybe It’s the Moonshine,” The Washboard Union injects fun and creativity into the genre. They’ve earned multiple CCMA Group of the Year awards.
35. Tebey
Tebey Ottoh, known professionally as Tebey, is a singer-songwriter from Peterborough, Ontario. Initially writing for pop and country artists in Nashville, he transitioned to performing his own material with hits like “Who’s Gonna Love You.” Tebey’s music merges country, R&B, and pop sensibilities.
36. Crystal Shawanda
Originally from the Wikwemikong First Nation on Manitoulin Island, Ontario, Crystal Shawanda is a proud Indigenous country and blues artist. Her 2008 debut album Dawn of a New Day was the highest-selling country album by a Native American in the SoundScan era. Shawanda uses her platform to elevate Indigenous stories and music within the country genre.
Conclusion
Canadian country music is as vast and diverse as the country itself. From the legendary voices of Shania Twain and Hank Snow to the rising stars like Tenille Townes and James Barker Band, these 36 artists represent the heart and soul of Canada’s contributions to country music.
Whether they’re rooted in the traditions of small-town storytelling or redefining the boundaries of the genre with bold new sounds, these artists reflect Canada’s vibrant cultural tapestry and strong musical legacy.