Village Gamer

Just in time for the celebration of Canadian music and musicians at the JUNO Awards next week, Canada Post is proud to give Canadians a preview of this edition of the Canadian Recording Artist stamp series, to be released in July, featuring for the first time, Canadian bands. Beau Dommage, Rush, The Guess Who and The Tragically Hip will be spotlighted in this fourth issue in a series created to honour musical legends.

“This year’s series features Canadian bands that have shaped the music industry in Canada,” says Jim Phillips, Director of Stamp Services for Canada Post. “Each band has achieved national acclaim, along with international radio air-time and extensive tours.”

Beau Dommage – Formed in 1973, Beau Dommage played a significant role in defining Quebec’s music in the 1970s. Considered the Beatles of Quebec and French music, the group released their first self-titled album in 1974, and broke sales records at the time. The following year “Où est passée la noce?” went platinum (100,000 units sold) on the first day of sales. Following successful tours in Europe and throughout Canada and Quebec between 1975 and 1978, Beau Dommage broke up in 1978, but reunited in 1994 to release their second self-titled album and tour Quebec the following year. In 2005, Beau Dommage appeared at the FrancoFolies in Montréal and were honoured by their musical peers.

Rush has sold in excess of 40 million records worldwide, placing them thirdbehind the Beatles and the Rolling Stones – for the most Gold and Platinum records by a rock band. Since their debut album in 1974, the Toronto group’s musical style has changed from British blues rock, utilizing synthesizers, sequencers, and electronic percussion. The band recently returned to its rock and roll roots. Rush will be the first Canadian band inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame on April 18, 2013, making them part of an elite-few Canadian artists to be so honoured.

The Guess Who got its start in Winnipeg in 1962 when singer/songwriter Chad Allen joined forces with Jim Kale, Randy Bachman, Garry Peterson and Bob Ashley to form Chad Allen and the Reflections. In 1965, the band’s single, “Shakin’ All Over,” was released to radio stations in a plain white record jacket with only the words “Guess Who?” written on it. Intended to peak curiosity, the name immediately caught on. The rest, as they say, is history. Over the course of their career, The Guess Who have recorded 14 Top 40 hit singles, sold millions of albums, won two JUNO Awards and been inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame, Canada’s Walk of Fame and the Canadian Music Industry Hall of Fame. In 2002, the band received a Governor General’s Performing Arts Award. While membership in the group has changed over the years, they continue to record and perform to sold-out audiences across the globe.

The Tragically Hip – Formed in 1984 in Kingston, The Tragically Hip sought inspiration for their name from the Michael Nesmith movie, “Elephant Parts.” They have released 12 studio albums, two live albums, one extended play (EP), and 54 singles. The Tragically Hip has been the recipient of numerous awards, including 14 JUNO Awards and the Governor General’s Performing Arts Award, and have been inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. They have sold millions of records worldwide, managing to enjoy both mass popularity and critical acclaim.

The Canadian Recording Artists stamp series will be available from Canada Post retail outlets starting July 19 or from the online store.