The 2024 Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame ceremony, held at Massey Hall on September 28th, was a night to remember.
The evening kicked off with a powerful performance by Tom Cochrane, setting an energetic and nostalgic tone for the evening which was hosted by Marie-Mai.
Throughout the night, the audience was treated to a series of remarkable performances, video tributes, and heartfelt speeches.
With tribute performances by Metric (“I Will Remember You”), Lights (“Building a Mystery”), and Whitehorse (“Sweet Surrender”), Sarah MacLachlan was inducted by presenter Nelly Furtado, receiving accolades for dedication to songwriting and the music community.
Jim Cuddy and Greg Keelor were inducted by presenter Ron MacLean amidst hockey stories and jokes about the unique nature of their artistic relationship.
Diane Tell was honoured for her contributions, particularly to the French community, by actor and comedian Pierre Brassard.
Tom Cochrane was the final inductee by longtime friend Gil Moore, drummer and co-vocalist of Triumph.
Highlights of the evening included Sarah MacLachlan’s emotional rendition of “Angel” accompanied by Nelly Furtado, Jim Cuddy, and Greg Keelor performing “Lost Together” with a host of artists; and Tom Cochrane performing “Life is a Highway” with Gary LeVox (Rascal Flatts).
Throughout the night there were many spectacular performances. Rafaëlle Roy, Ariane Roy, and La Zara honoured Diane Tell’s “On a Beau” and other hits, with Diane joining Dominique Fils-Aimé for “Gilberto.”
Sam Roberts and Brett Emmons performed Tom Cochrane’s hits “White Hot” (Roberts) and “Big League” (Emmons) highlighting Tom Cochrane is a true rocker.
The grand finale was an encompassing closing performance by Tom Cochrane and all the artists who performed tributes at the show.
Overall, the ceremony was a beautiful homage to the artists who have shaped the Canadian music landscape, filled with outstanding musical performances.