Canada, known for its diverse and thriving music scene, has produced a wealth of famous singers who have achieved global recognition and acclaim. From pop sensations to rock legends, Canadian singers have made their mark across various genres, leaving an indelible impact on the music industry.
One of the most iconic Canadian singers is Céline Dion. Hailing from Quebec, Dion’s powerful vocals and emotional performances have captivated audiences worldwide. With timeless hits like “My Heart Will Go On” and “The Power of Love,” she has become one of the best-selling artists of all time, earning multiple Grammy Awards and cementing her status as a music legend.
Another notable Canadian singer is Bryan Adams. Born in Ontario, Adams’s raspy voice and memorable anthems have made him a rock icon. With chart-topping hits like “Summer of ’69” and “Everything I Do (I Do It for You),” he has sold millions of records and continues to tour and captivate audiences globally.
Additionally, Canada is home to the dynamic pop star Justin Bieber. Discovered on YouTube, Bieber’s smooth vocals and catchy pop tunes have propelled him to international stardom. With hits like “Baby” and “Sorry,” he has amassed a massive fan base and established himself as one of the biggest pop stars of the modern era.
These famous singers from Canada, along with others like Alanis Morissette, Leonard Cohen, and Shania Twain, have showcased the country’s incredible musical talent. Their contributions, success, and global appeal have solidified Canada’s place on the map as a powerhouse in the music industry.
1. Celine Dion
A renowned Canadian singer, Celine Dion, gained global attention for her powerful vocals and emotional ballads. The five-time Grammy Award winner has sold over 200 million records worldwide and is considered one of the best-selling artists in music history. Known for hits such as "My Heart Will Go On" and "Because You Loved Me," Dion has a vocal range that spans three octaves and continues to captivate audiences with her soulful performances.
Love him or hate him, Justin Bieber is the only Canadian export with a higher pitch than maple syrup.
2. Justin Bieber
Justin Bieber, the well-known Canadian singer, is regarded as one of the world's biggest pop stars. With an extensive presence on social media and a captivating voice, he has dominated the charts with hits like "Baby" and "Sorry." His success began with performing on YouTube, and later he became mainstream. His unique sound brings together elements of R&B, pop, and soul that has gained him millions of fans worldwide.
Bieber's musical abilities are not limited to singing but also extend to his songwriting skills as he co-writes most of his songs. He has released numerous albums over the years that cater to a broad range of audiences. His success can also be attributed to his ability to constantly reinvent himself, ensuring fans always have something new to look forward to.
Moreover, apart from music accolades, Bieber has won awards for his charity work and philanthropy too. He is an advocate for mental health awareness and supports organizations that promote education and cancer research.
It is interesting to note that Justin Bieber was discovered by record executive Scooter Braun after he noticed one of Bieber's videos on YouTube in 2008 (source).
Drake may be from Canada, but he's been breaking hearts all over the world with his lyrics.
3. Drake
One of the most famous singers to come out of Canada is a Grammy-winning rapper, singer, songwriter and actor. He is often referred to by his middle name. With his unique style and hit songs like "Hotline Bling" and "God's Plan", he has become an international superstar. His success has led him to collaborate with many other top artists in the industry. He has also achieved success as an entrepreneur with ventures in fashion and liquor brands.
Drake's music career started in 2006 with the release of his first mixtape "Room for Improvement". He quickly gained popularity with his music and was soon signed by a record label. He has released several successful albums including "Thank Me Later" and "Views". In addition to his music career, Drake has made appearances in popular TV shows like Degrassi: The Next Generation.
Aside from his music, Drake is also known for his philanthropic efforts. In 2018, he donated $1 million to non-profit organizations that provide relief for families affected by Hurricane Harvey in Texas.
Source: Billboard.
Looks like The Weeknd is single-handedly carrying the Canadian music industry on his back…or should we say, on his hair?
4. The Weeknd
As a talented R&B artist hailing from Canada, the Canadian-born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye is professionally known as The Weeknd. With his soulful voice and smooth beats, The Weeknd has made a name for himself in the music industry. He started gaining popularity with his mixtapes before releasing his debut album, 'Kiss Land'. Since then, he has released several successful albums such as 'Beauty Behind the Madness', 'Starboy', and 'After Hours'. His ability to blend pop, R&B, and hip-hop genres has earned him multiple Grammy awards.
The Weeknd gained popularity in 2010 with the release of his first mixtape 'House of Balloons', which went viral on social media platforms. Before long, he had signed with Republic Records. He released two more mixtapes and received critical acclaim for his unique sound. His hit songs include "Can't Feel My Face," "The Hills," and "Blinding Lights." His music videos are also visually stunning and innovative.
What sets The Weeknd apart is that he often writes about dark topics such as drug addiction, heartbreak, and depression. He draws inspiration from Michael Jackson, Prince, and other legends while creating a sound that is distinctly his own. Despite not conforming to mainstream pop music standards, his devoted fans rave about him.
Although melodic and dance-friendly on stage or over headphones – life wasn't always so golden for The Weeknd. As a young boy growing up in Toronto to Ethiopian Immigrant parents during 1990s difficult times – living on welfare was commonplace. It wasn't until success in music came along that brightened up life by amassing loads of wealth (now reputed at USD 100 million) along with millions of adoring celebrity fans worldwide.
5. Shania Twain: She's the reason we feel like a woman, even when we're not sure what that means.
5. Shania Twain
Shania Twain, born Eilleen Regina Edwards, is a Canadian country pop singer who gained popularity worldwide with her albums 'The Woman in Me' and 'Come On Over'. Selling over 100 million records during her career, she is one of the best-selling music artists of all time. Twain also made significant contributions to the music industry through co-writing most of her songs. Her musical style includes pop, rock, and country, attracting a diverse audience.
In addition to her singing career, Shania Twain has also made appearances on films and television shows. She starred in 'I Heart Huckabees', an American comedy-drama film and has served as a coach on the popular TV show 'The Voice' in Canada. Twain's philanthropic works include supporting various charities that aid children's education and healthcare.
If you want to follow in the footsteps of Shania Twain's success, focus on developing your songwriting skills and always stay true to yourself while experimenting with different genres. Additionally, collaborate with fellow musicians and make use of social media to build your fan base. Persistence and dedication are key when it comes to pursuing a career in music.
Don't be fooled by the smooth vocals and charming smile, Michael Bublé is just a Canadian version of Sinatra with a maple syrup twist.
6. Michael Bublé
With his soulful voice and charismatic personality, Michael Bublé is a well-known Canadian singer. He began his career as a teenager and has since released numerous albums, with hits like "Haven't Met You Yet" and "Feeling Good." His music is often inspired by the classics of jazz and swing, but he also incorporates contemporary pop elements into his songs. Additionally, Bublé has won several awards for his work both in Canada and internationally.
One interesting fact about Michael Bublé is that he is not just known for his singing talent – he also has a passion for ice hockey. In fact, he even co-owned a team in the Western Hockey League called the Vancouver Giants.
Bryan Adams proves that you don't need to be a maple syrup-loving, hockey-playing, Mountie to be a Canadian icon.
7. Bryan Adams
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9EHAo6rEuas&pp=ygULQnJ5YW4gQWRhbXM%3D
With a successful career spanning over four decades, Bryan Adams is one of Canada's most renowned and beloved singers. Famous for hits such as "Summer of '69" and "(Everything I Do) I Do It for You," Adams has sold millions of records worldwide and earned numerous awards and accolades. His music embodies heartland rock, with soulful vocals and guitar-driven melodies. In addition to his music career, Adams has also worked as a photographer, exhibiting his work in galleries around the world.
Fun fact: Bryan Adams was one of the few musicians to perform at both the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.
Alanis Morissette's music is ironic, but it's not like rain on your wedding day, unless of course you're getting married in Vancouver.
8. Alanis Morissette
One of the most successful and influential Canadian singers in recent times is a woman who has sold over 75 million records worldwide, won numerous awards, and been inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. Known for her introspective lyrics and powerful vocals, this artist burst onto the scene with her third album, Jagged Little Pill, which became a cultural phenomenon in the mid-1990s. From there, she continued to release critically and commercially successful albums and remains a beloved figure in the music world today.
In addition to her impressive musical accomplishments, this artist has also dabbled in acting and activism. She has appeared in several films and television shows, including Weeds and Curb Your Enthusiasm, and has been an outspoken advocate for various causes ranging from environmentalism to mental health awareness.
Overall, Alanis Morissette is a true icon of Canadian music whose impact on the industry cannot be overstated. Whether you're a longtime fan or just discovering her work for the first time, it's clear that this artist's legacy will continue to resonate for years to come.
Leonard Cohen's voice is so smooth, it's like his vocal cords were dipped in maple syrup.
9. Leonard Cohen
Leonard Cohen is one of Canada's most renowned artists, recognized globally for his contributions to music, poetry and literature. His poetic lyrics and soulful voice have captivated audiences since the 1960s, and his work has been covered by countless musicians across genres. With a career spanning six decades, Cohen's influence is felt throughout the industry and beyond.
Neil Young may be from Canada, but he's still got a heart of gold.
10. Neil Young
Neil Young, a Canadian singer-songwriter, is a celebrated musician and has made significant contributions to the music industry. He is known for his folky sound that often incorporates rock elements. Throughout his career, Neil Young has released numerous albums and collaborated with various artists to create music that resonates with his audiences.
One of Neil Young's most iconic works is his album 'Harvest', which features some of his most well-known songs like 'Heart of Gold' and 'Old Man.' The album garnered critical acclaim and commercial success upon its release in 1972. Neil Young's songwriting ability often touches on various themes such as love, politics, and social commentary.
Apart from being an accomplished musician, Neil Young is also an activist involved in environmentalism, Native American rights advocacy, and political activism. These efforts are reflected in his music as well with songs like 'Ohio' written about the Kent State shooting in 1970.
In addition to being an inspiration for many musicians today, Neil Young has also set an example through his charitable work. His Bridge School Benefit Concerts have raised millions of dollars for children with disabilities since its inception in 1986. With such a remarkable career spanning several decades, it is undeniable that Neil Young deserves a place among famous singers from Canada.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
