Last night, a great Canadian passed away: Stompin’ Tom Connors. The news came during Hockey Night in Canada, and has left many Canucks with heavy hearts. Unfortunately, I never had the privilege to meet him, but his voice rang prominently in our family. I asked my mom to share some memories …
“My dad, Thomas Baker, and Stompin’ Tom Connors first became friends in 1972, after my dad did all of his record covers in copper art. Stompin’ Tom called to thank him, and that’s when a friendship started … My parents went to his wedding and were part of the audience at his famous Horseshoe Tavern performance for the filming of his movie ‘Across This Land.’ We also had the chance to visit his childhood home in Skinner’s Pond, Prince Edward Island, and met his foster parents, Mr. and Mrs. Aylward. As kids, he had a car pick us up and take us to a recording studio to see how it was all done. He let us try singing Name the Capitals, a really fun and exciting opportunity. As a souvenir, he gave us each a signed dollar bill. He was a wonderful, kind and humble man, a true Canadian who made me proud to be a Canadian, too.”
great sadness to hear of his passing. There will never be anyone like him again. He was a true Canadian and a great inspiration. We will miss him.
He was a true Canadian! So hard to find such passionate Canadian artists, who really care about their roots.
This post reminds me of how many WONDERFUL musicians hail from Canada, Emily. Everyone of them will be a huge loss when they go. My favorite? k.d. lang! Or, now that I mention it, maybe a tie with Anne Murray!!
OH wow Ginnie! You are a true music enthusiast! K.D Lang and Anne Murray, that is fantastic. I adore so many Canadian artists, and I am just so happy that Stompin Tom was able to touch so many people with his music. I think it’s a bit rare to find people like him – who really sing about our country and have a true passion for the lands. It’s great! 🙂 Makes me proud!
A beautiful tribute to a great man .
Agreed, Laurette. Thank you for the kind words.
This was a lovely tribute Emily.
Thank you RJ. He was a great Canadian.
This is sooooo cool that your mom got to meet Stomping Tom in person Emily…
i saw him perform in my home town many years ago…
he was famous for his song “On a Sudbury Saturday Night”…
that’s where i was born:-).
Life is full of good memories and fun
Great tribute to a fine musician….peter:)
Thanks Peter. As a fellow Canadian and someone who seems so knowledgeable about the country, I knew you’d appreciate this post. 🙂 Thanks again for your kind words.