24 Greatest Famous Canadian Singers of All Time

Canada has produced an extraordinary range of musical talent, with singers who have left an indelible mark on the global music industry.

From the timeless ballads of Celine Dion to the folk-rock anthems of Neil Young, Canadian singers have consistently pushed the boundaries of creativity, blending their unique cultural influences with universal themes.

This rich musical heritage has positioned Canada as a significant force in the world of music, with its artists continuing to inspire and resonate with audiences worldwide.

24 Most Famous Singers From Canadian Who You Need to Listen to

This list includes artists from a variety of genres, showcasing the diverse and rich musical talent that Canada has produced.

Here’s a list of 24 famous Canadian singers:

#1 Celine Dion

Celine Dion, born on March 30, 1968, in Charlemagne, Quebec, is one of the most successful and influential pop singers of all time. She began her career as a teen star in the French-speaking world before gaining international fame by winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1988. Her powerful voice and emotional delivery quickly made her a global sensation, especially with the release of her English-language album “Unison” (1990).

Dion’s career skyrocketed with hits like “The Power of Love,” “Because You Loved Me,” and the iconic “My Heart Will Go On” from the “Titanic” soundtrack, solidifying her status as a global superstar.

#2 Leonard Cohen

Leonard Cohen, born on September 21, 1934, in Montreal, Quebec, was a legendary singer-songwriter, poet, and novelist whose career spanned over five decades. Cohen’s deep, gravelly voice and introspective lyrics made him a unique figure in the music world, often exploring themes of love, faith, and existential despair. He began his music career in the 1960s with albums like “Songs of Leonard Cohen” (1967), which featured his haunting classic “Suzanne.”

Cohen continued to release critically acclaimed albums throughout his life, with “Hallelujah” becoming one of his most enduring and widely covered songs, earning him a revered place in music history.

#3 Justin Bieber

Justin Bieber, born on March 1, 1994, in London, Ontario, is one of the biggest pop stars of the 21st century. Discovered on YouTube by talent manager Scooter Braun, Bieber quickly rose to fame with his debut single “One Time” in 2009, followed by the release of his debut album “My World.” His youthful charm and catchy pop tunes made him an instant sensation, earning him a massive global fanbase known as “Beliebers.”

Over the years, Bieber has evolved as an artist, exploring different musical styles with hits like “Sorry,” “Love Yourself,” and “Peaches,” and has maintained his position as a leading figure in pop music.

#4 Shania Twain

Shania Twain, born Eilleen Regina Edwards on August 28, 1965, in Windsor, Ontario, is a country-pop superstar known as the “Queen of Country Pop.” Twain’s breakthrough came with her 1995 album “The Woman in Me,” which blended country and pop in a way that appealed to a broad audience. Her follow-up album, “Come On Over” (1997), became the best-selling studio album of all time by a female act in any genre, with hits like “You’re Still the One” and “Man! I Feel Like a Woman!”

Twain’s success not only revolutionized country music but also solidified her as one of the most influential female artists in music history.

#5 Joni Mitchell

Joni Mitchell, born Roberta Joan Anderson on November 7, 1943, in Fort Macleod, Alberta, is one of the most influential singer-songwriters in the history of music. Mitchell’s career began in the folk scene of the 1960s, where her poetic lyrics and distinctive voice quickly set her apart. Her 1971 album “Blue” is considered one of the greatest albums of all time, featuring songs that delve deeply into personal and emotional territory.

Mitchell’s influence extends beyond folk, as she experimented with jazz, pop, and rock throughout her career, earning her a place among the most revered and innovative artists of the 20th century.

#6 Drake

Drake, born Aubrey Drake Graham on October 24, 1986, in Toronto, Ontario, is a global hip-hop superstar known for his ability to seamlessly blend rap, R&B, and pop. Drake first gained recognition as an actor on the television series “Degrassi: The Next Generation” before transitioning to music with his breakthrough mixtape “So Far Gone” in 2009. His debut studio album “Thank Me Later” (2010) debuted at number one on the Billboard 200, and he quickly became one of the most influential figures in music.

Drake’s hits like “Hotline Bling,” “God’s Plan,” and “In My Feelings” have dominated charts worldwide, making him one of the best-selling music artists of all time.

#7 The Weeknd

The Weeknd, born Abel Makkonen Tesfaye on February 16, 1990, in Toronto, Ontario, is an R&B and pop singer known for his haunting voice and dark, atmospheric music. He first gained attention with his 2011 mixtapes “House of Balloons,” “Thursday,” and “Echoes of Silence,” which he released anonymously online, quickly garnering critical acclaim. His debut album “Kiss Land” (2013) solidified his place in the music industry, but it was his 2015 album “Beauty Behind the Madness” that made him a global superstar, featuring hits like “Can’t Feel My Face” and “The Hills.”

The Weeknd’s innovative style and genre-defying music have made him one of the most influential artists of his generation.

#8 Bryan Adams

Bryan Adams, born on November 5, 1959, in Kingston, Ontario, is a rock singer-songwriter who achieved global fame in the 1980s and 1990s. Adams’ breakthrough came with his 1983 album “Cuts Like a Knife,” which included hits like “Straight from the Heart” and the title track. His next album, “Reckless” (1984), cemented his status as a rock superstar with anthems like “Summer of ’69” and “Heaven.”

Adams is also known for his ballad “Everything I Do (I Do It for You),” which became a massive hit worldwide. His raspy voice and anthemic rock style have made him one of Canada’s most enduring musical icons.

#9 Neil Young

Neil Young, born on November 12, 1945, in Toronto, Ontario, is a legendary singer-songwriter and guitarist whose career has spanned over five decades. Young is known for his distinctive voice, raw guitar work, and deeply introspective lyrics, often addressing social and political themes. His work with Buffalo Springfield, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, and as a solo artist has made him a central figure in rock history.

Albums like “Harvest” (1972) and “After the Gold Rush” (1970) are considered classics, showcasing Young’s ability to blend folk, rock, and country. His influence on music is profound, earning him the nickname “The Godfather of Grunge.”

#10 Alanis Morissette

Alanis Morissette, born on June 1, 1974, in Ottawa, Ontario, is a singer-songwriter who became a defining voice of the 1990s alternative rock scene. Her breakthrough album “Jagged Little Pill” (1995) was a commercial and critical success, featuring hits like “You Oughta Know,” “Ironic,” and “Hand in My Pocket.” The album’s raw emotion and confessional lyrics resonated with a generation, earning Morissette multiple Grammy Awards.

Her fearless exploration of personal and relational themes, combined with her powerful vocals, made Morissette one of the most influential female artists of her time, and she continues to inspire new generations of musicians.

#11 Michael Bublé

Michael Bublé, born on September 9, 1975, in Burnaby, British Columbia, is a Canadian crooner known for his modern interpretations of jazz and pop standards. Bublé rose to international fame with his self-titled debut album in 2003, which included covers of classics like “Fever” and “Moondance.” His smooth vocals and charismatic stage presence have made him a favorite among fans of traditional pop and jazz.

Bublé’s subsequent albums, including “It’s Time” (2005) and “Call Me Irresponsible” (2007), solidified his status as a modern-day Frank Sinatra, and his original songs like “Haven’t Met You Yet” have become hits worldwide.

#12 Sarah McLachlan

Sarah McLachlan, born on January 28, 1968, in Halifax, Nova Scotia, is a singer-songwriter known for her emotive ballads and ethereal voice. McLachlan gained widespread recognition in the 1990s with albums like “Fumbling Towards Ecstasy” (1993) and “Surfacing” (1997), which included hits like “Building a Mystery” and “Angel.” Her music is characterized by its introspective lyrics and lush, atmospheric arrangements.

In addition to her musical success, McLachlan is also known for founding the Lilith Fair, a touring festival that celebrated female musicians. Her influence extends beyond her music, as she has been a significant advocate for women’s rights and charitable causes.

#13 Gordon Lightfoot

Gordon Lightfoot, born on November 17, 1938, in Orillia, Ontario, is a folk rock legend known for his narrative songwriting and distinctive baritone voice. Lightfoot’s career took off in the 1960s, and he became one of Canada’s most celebrated singer-songwriters with hits like “If You Could Read My Mind,” “Sundown,” and “The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald.” His music often reflects themes of love, loss, and the Canadian landscape, resonating deeply with audiences.

Lightfoot’s influence on folk music is profound, and he is widely regarded as one of the greatest songwriters of all time, earning numerous accolades throughout his career.

#14 k.d. lang

k.d. lang, born Kathryn Dawn Lang on November 2, 1961, in Edmonton, Alberta, is a singer-songwriter known for her versatile voice and genre-defying music. Lang first gained attention in the 1980s with her country music, but she soon expanded her repertoire to include pop, jazz, and adult contemporary. Her 1992 album “Ingénue,” which featured the hit single “Constant Craving,” brought her international acclaim and showcased her powerful, emotive voice.

Lang is also known for her advocacy of LGBTQ+ rights and animal welfare, and she has been recognized with multiple Grammy Awards and a reputation as one of the most innovative artists of her generation.

#15 Avril Lavigne

Avril Lavigne, born on September 27, 1984, in Belleville, Ontario, is a pop-punk singer-songwriter who became a global sensation in the early 2000s. Lavigne’s debut album “Let Go” (2002) featured hit singles like “Complicated” and “Sk8er Boi,” which quickly established her as the “Pop Punk Queen.” Her youthful, rebellious image and catchy, guitar-driven songs resonated with a generation of young fans.

Over the years, Lavigne has continued to evolve as an artist, exploring different styles while maintaining her signature sound. She remains an influential figure in pop-punk music, inspiring many artists who followed in her footsteps.

#16 Feist

Feist, born Leslie Feist on February 13, 1976, in Amherst, Nova Scotia, is an indie pop singer-songwriter known for her delicate vocals and introspective lyrics. Feist gained international attention with her 2007 album “The Reminder,” which included the hit single “1234,” famously featured in an Apple iPod commercial. Her music blends elements of folk, pop, and indie rock, creating a unique and intimate sound.

Feist’s work has earned her critical acclaim, multiple Juno Awards, and a dedicated following. Her ability to craft deeply personal yet universally relatable songs has made her one of the most respected artists in the indie music scene.

#17 Carly Rae Jepsen

Carly Rae Jepsen, born on November 21, 1985, in Mission, British Columbia, is a pop singer-songwriter best known for her infectious hit “Call Me Maybe” (2011). The song became a global phenomenon, topping charts in over 18 countries and turning Jepsen into an international pop star overnight. Following the success of “Call Me Maybe,” Jepsen released the album “Kiss” (2012), which continued to showcase her knack for catchy, feel-good pop music.

Jepsen’s later work, including the critically acclaimed album “E•MO•TION” (2015), solidified her reputation as a pop artist with both commercial appeal and artistic credibility, earning her a devoted fan base.

#18 Nelly Furtado

Nelly Furtado, born on December 2, 1978, in Victoria, British Columbia, is a pop and R&B singer known for her eclectic musical style and powerful voice. Furtado first gained international fame with her debut album “Whoa, Nelly!” (2000), which featured the hit singles “I’m Like a Bird” and “Turn Off the Light.” Her unique blend of pop, folk, and world music influences made her stand out in the early 2000s pop landscape.

In 2006, Furtado reinvented her sound with the album “Loose,” which included global hits like “Promiscuous” and “Maneater,” showcasing her versatility as an artist and cementing her status as a pop superstar.

#19 Corey Hart

Corey Hart, born on May 31, 1962, in Montreal, Quebec, is a pop singer best known for his 1980s hits, particularly the iconic song “Sunglasses at Night.” Hart’s debut album, “First Offense” (1983), quickly catapulted him to fame, with “Sunglasses at Night” becoming a defining track of the decade. His follow-up album, “Boy in the Box” (1985), was equally successful, featuring the hit single “Never Surrender,” which became a number one hit in Canada.

Hart’s distinctive voice and brooding pop-rock style earned him a dedicated fan base, and he remains a beloved figure in Canadian pop music, with a career that has spanned over three decades.

#20 Anne Murray

Anne Murray, born on June 20, 1945, in Springhill, Nova Scotia, is a country and pop singer whose career has made her one of Canada’s most celebrated artists. Murray’s breakthrough came with her 1969 hit “Snowbird,” which became a crossover success on both the country and pop charts. Her warm voice and straightforward delivery resonated with a broad audience, leading to a string of hits throughout the 1970s and 1980s, including “You Needed Me” and “Danny’s Song.”

Murray’s success in blending country and pop music earned her multiple Grammy and Juno Awards, and she is widely regarded as a pioneer for Canadian female artists in the international music scene.

#21 Rufus Wainwright

Rufus Wainwright, born on July 22, 1973, in Rhinebeck, New York, and raised in Montreal, Quebec, is a singer-songwriter known for his lush, baroque pop music and theatrical flair. Wainwright, the son of folk singers Loudon Wainwright III and Kate McGarrigle, has been praised for his unique voice and complex compositions. His self-titled debut album, released in 1998, showcased his talent for blending classical music with pop, earning him critical acclaim.

Wainwright has continued to explore a wide range of musical styles, from operatic compositions to covers of classic standards, establishing himself as one of the most innovative and versatile artists in contemporary music.

#22 Shawn Mendes

Shawn Mendes, born on August 8, 1998, in Pickering, Ontario, is a pop singer-songwriter who rose to fame as a teenager through social media platforms like Vine. Mendes gained widespread attention with his debut single “Life of the Party” in 2014, which led to the release of his first studio album “Handwritten” (2015). His ability to craft catchy, heartfelt pop songs quickly made him a favorite among young audiences, with hits like “Stitches” and “Treat You Better” dominating the charts.

Mendes has continued to grow as an artist, exploring more mature themes and sounds in albums like “Illuminate” (2016) and “Wonder” (2020), solidifying his place in the global pop music scene.

#23 Jann Arden

Jann Arden, born on March 27, 1962, in Calgary, Alberta, is a pop and adult contemporary singer-songwriter known for her emotive voice and introspective lyrics. Arden’s breakthrough came with her 1993 album “Time for Mercy,” which included the hit single “I Would Die for You.” However, it was her follow-up album “Living Under June” (1994) that brought her widespread fame, featuring the smash hit “Insensitive.”

Arden’s music often explores themes of love, loss, and self-reflection, resonating deeply with listeners. Over her career, she has won numerous awards, including several Juno Awards, and remains a beloved figure in Canadian music.

#24 Tom Cochrane

Tom Cochrane, born on May 14, 1953, in Lynn Lake, Manitoba, is a rock singer-songwriter best known for his anthem “Life Is a Highway.” Cochrane first gained prominence as the lead singer of the Canadian rock band Red Rider in the 1980s, with hits like “Lunatic Fringe” and “Big League.” His solo career took off in 1991 with the release of “Mad Mad World,” which featured “Life Is a Highway,” a song that became a massive hit in both Canada and the United States.

Cochrane’s blend of rock and roots music, combined with his evocative lyrics, has made him one of Canada’s most respected rock musicians, with a career spanning over four decades.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who are some of the most iconic Canadian singers in music history?

Celine Dion, Neil Young, and Joni Mitchell are among the most iconic Canadian singers, each having made a significant impact on the global music scene. Their contributions span multiple genres, from pop and rock to folk and country.

How has Canadian culture influenced the music of famous Canadian singers?

Canadian culture, with its rich diversity and natural landscapes, has often inspired these artists’ music, leading to themes of identity, introspection, and storytelling. Many Canadian singers incorporate their national pride and experiences into their lyrics and sound.

Which Canadian singer has won the most Grammy Awards?

Celine Dion is one of the most awarded Canadian singers, with multiple Grammy Awards to her name. Her powerful voice and international appeal have earned her critical acclaim and numerous accolades throughout her career.

Are there any famous Canadian singers who started their careers on social media?

Yes, Justin Bieber and Shawn Mendes both launched their careers by gaining popularity on social media platforms like YouTube and Vine. Their early online success quickly translated into mainstream fame, making them global pop stars.