Tom Cochrane
Encyclopedia
Tom Cochrane, OC
(born May 14, 1953) Canadian musician
and humanitarian, best known for his hit songs "Life Is a Highway
", "Lunatic Fringe", "Human Race" and "I Wish You Well". Cochrane fronted the Canadian rock band Red Rider
and has won seven Juno Award
s. He is a member of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame
, an Officer of the Order of Canada
, has an Honorary Doctorate from Brandon University
and is an Honorary Colonel in the Canadian Air Force. In September 2009, he was inducted onto the Canadian Walk of Fame.
, Manitoba
, to Violet and Tuck Cochrane, a bush pilot. The family relocated to Acton
, Ontario
, when Tom was four years old and later to Etobicoke, Ontario
. He purchased his first guitar at age 11 by selling a toy train set. Cochrane attended Martingrove Collegiate Institute
in the late 1960s. In the early 1970s, he was performing in coffee houses across Canada. He eventually made his way to Los Angeles
where he found a job writing theme music for the movie My Pleasure Is My Business, the Xaviera Hollander story. Unable to find steady income from music, Cochrane returned to Toronto
, where he drove a taxi cab and later took a job on a Caribbean cruise liner.
Tavern in Toronto, Cochrane joined the Canadian Rock Band Red Rider
in 1978 and served as their lead singer and main songwriter for more than ten years. Red Rider included Ken Greer
, Jeff Jones
, Peter Boynton and Rob Baker. Bruce Allen
managed the band from their debut until 1985. Cochrane recorded six studio albums with Red Rider plus a live album, a best of album and a box set. By 1986, the band was billed as "Tom Cochrane & Red Rider".
In 2002, Cochrane reunited with his former Red Rider bandmates Greer and Jones and continues to perform with them today. A complete listing of Red Rider's recordings is included below.
, Cochrane launched his solo career in 1991 with the release of the song "Life is a Highway
". The single became a global success and was followed by the release of his Mad Mad World
album, which would reach the six million mark in worldwide sales. The albums Ragged Ass Road, Songs of a Circling Spirit, X-Ray Sierra and No Stranger followed. Cochrane's massive body of music and energetic live shows have established him as one of Canada's most-treasured artists.
and spends summers at his cottage/studio on the shores of Georgian Bay
in Northern Ontario
and winters part time at his home outside of Austin
, Texas
. Tom and his wife Kathleene have two daughters, Cody and Evanne. Cochrane continues to tour and perform in Canada where he remains one of the country's most popular live acts.
in 2003 for outstanding contribution to the greater recognition of Canadian music. The ceremony took place April 5, 2003 at Casino du Lac-Meamy in Gatineau, Quebec. The following night, Cochrane was honoured for his induction in a speech by Jeff Healey
at the Juno Awards at the Corel Centre (now Scotiabank Place
in Ottawa). Cochrane closed the show by performing a medley of his hits and was joined onstage by host Shania Twain
for the final song, "Life Is A Highway
".
Order of Canada: In April 2008, Cochrane received the highest honour for a Canadian Citizen when he was invested as an Officer of the Order of Canada
. Cochrane was honoured for a lifetime of charity work, his contribution to the arts and for being unabashedly Canadian.
Canada's Walk of Fame: In September 2009, Cochrane was inducted onto Canada's Walk of Fame
. The induction was highlighted by a 2-hour nationally televised gala at Toronto's Four Season's Center for the Performing Arts. Anne Murray
hosted the event which also included the inductions of Kim Cattrall
, Raymond Burr
, Blue Rodeo
, Dsquared2, Howie Mandel
, Robert Munsch
and Chantal Petitclerc
.
Honorary Colonel: In November 2007, Cochrane was formally invested as an Honorary Colonel (HCol) by the Canadian Air Force's 409 "Nighthawks" Tactical Fighter Squadron. As part of his investiture weekend, Cochrane experienced his second flight in a CF-18.
Honorary Doctorate: In May 2005, Cochrane received an Honorary Doctorate from Brandon University
in Brandon
, Manitoba
. In addition, musician James Ehnes
, journalist Henry Champ and actress Shirley Douglas
received Honorary Doctorates from the University at the Spring Convocation held May 28, 2005.
Canadian Music Industry Humanitarian Award: In March 2005, Cochrane received the Humanitarian Award at the Canadian Music Industry Association's (CMIA) gala dinner in Toronto during the annual Canadian Music Week
Festival.
and has traveled to Africa several times. He has also served as the Honorary Chairman of the SuperWalk for Parkinsons and has been a proud supporter of WSPA
, War Child
, Amnesty International
, and the Make Poverty History
campaign.
Canada For Asia: On January 13, 2005, Cochrane, his wife Kathleene and Alex Lifeson
spearheaded a benefit concert in support of tsunami
relief in Asia. 150 Canadian stars appeared including Anne Murray
, Bryan Adams
, Blue Rodeo
, The Tragically Hip
, Oscar Peterson
, Celine Dion
, Rush
and Barenaked Ladies
. The concert, which was produced and televised by CBC TV, raised over $4 million in pledges.
Live 8 Concert: On July 2, 2005, Cochrane kicked off the Canadian edition of the Live 8
benefit concerts in Barrie
, Ontario
performing his hits "Life Is A Highway" and "No Regrets". The Live 8 concerts took place in the G8
states and in South Africa
to pressure world leaders to drop the debt of the world's poorest nations, increase and improve aid, and negotiate fair trade rules in the interest of the poorest countries.
Juno Award
nominations:
Grammy nominations
ASCAP Awards
SOCAN Awards
Television and movies
Order of Canada
The Order of Canada is a Canadian national order, admission into which is, within the system of orders, decorations, and medals of Canada, the second highest honour for merit...
(born May 14, 1953) Canadian musician
Musician
A musician is an artist who plays a musical instrument. It may or may not be the person's profession. Musicians can be classified by their roles in performing music and writing music.Also....* A person who makes music a profession....
and humanitarian, best known for his hit songs "Life Is a Highway
Life Is a Highway
"Life Is a Highway" is a song written by Tom Cochrane, from his 1991 album Mad Mad World. The song was Cochrane's most famous song, as it was a number one hit in his native Canada. The song also peaked at number six on the Billboard charts in the United States in 1992...
", "Lunatic Fringe", "Human Race" and "I Wish You Well". Cochrane fronted the Canadian rock band Red Rider
Red Rider
Red Rider are a Canadian rock band popular in the 1980s. While the band achieved great success in Canada, in the US, the band never had a song in the Top 40....
and has won seven Juno Award
Juno Award
The Juno Awards are presented annually to Canadian musical artists and bands to acknowledge their artistic and technical achievements in all aspects of music...
s. He is a member of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame
Canadian Music Hall of Fame
The Canadian Music Hall of Fame honors Canadian musicians for their lifetime achievements in music. The ceremony is held each year as part of the Juno Award ceremonies. Members of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame represent many of the world's great talents...
, an Officer of the Order of Canada
Order of Canada
The Order of Canada is a Canadian national order, admission into which is, within the system of orders, decorations, and medals of Canada, the second highest honour for merit...
, has an Honorary Doctorate from Brandon University
Brandon University
Brandon University is a Canadian university located in the city of Brandon, Manitoba, with an enrolment of 3383 full-time and part-time students. The current location was founded on July 13, 1899, as Brandon College as a Baptist institution. It was chartered as a university by then President Dr....
and is an Honorary Colonel in the Canadian Air Force. In September 2009, he was inducted onto the Canadian Walk of Fame.
Earlier life
Cochrane was born in Lynn LakeLynn Lake, Manitoba
Lynn Lake is a small town in the northwest region of Manitoba, Canada, 1,071 km from Winnipeg. The town was named after Lynn Smith, chief engineer of Sherritt Gordon Mines Ltd. There are numerous outfitters in the Lynn Lake area...
, Manitoba
Manitoba
Manitoba is a Canadian prairie province with an area of . The province has over 110,000 lakes and has a largely continental climate because of its flat topography. Agriculture, mostly concentrated in the fertile southern and western parts of the province, is vital to the province's economy; other...
, to Violet and Tuck Cochrane, a bush pilot. The family relocated to Acton
Acton, Ontario
Acton is a community located in the Town of Halton Hills, in Halton Region, Ontario, Canada.Acton is located on Highway 7 and the former Highway 25. Acton is served by GO Transit bus service on the Georgetown line corridor.-History:Acton was first named Danville when Settler Wheeler Green opened...
, Ontario
Ontario
Ontario is a province of Canada, located in east-central Canada. It is Canada's most populous province and second largest in total area. It is home to the nation's most populous city, Toronto, and the nation's capital, Ottawa....
, when Tom was four years old and later to Etobicoke, Ontario
Ontario
Ontario is a province of Canada, located in east-central Canada. It is Canada's most populous province and second largest in total area. It is home to the nation's most populous city, Toronto, and the nation's capital, Ottawa....
. He purchased his first guitar at age 11 by selling a toy train set. Cochrane attended Martingrove Collegiate Institute
Martingrove Collegiate Institute
Martingrove Collegiate Institute is a non-semestered public secondary school located on the southeast corner at the intersection of Eglinton Avenue and Martin Grove Road in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is overseen by the Toronto District School Board. The school is home to the gifted program in...
in the late 1960s. In the early 1970s, he was performing in coffee houses across Canada. He eventually made his way to Los Angeles
Los Ángeles
Los Ángeles is the capital of the province of Biobío, in the commune of the same name, in Region VIII , in the center-south of Chile. It is located between the Laja and Biobío rivers. The population is 123,445 inhabitants...
where he found a job writing theme music for the movie My Pleasure Is My Business, the Xaviera Hollander story. Unable to find steady income from music, Cochrane returned to Toronto
Toronto
Toronto is the provincial capital of Ontario and the largest city in Canada. It is located in Southern Ontario on the northwestern shore of Lake Ontario. A relatively modern city, Toronto's history dates back to the late-18th century, when its land was first purchased by the British monarchy from...
, where he drove a taxi cab and later took a job on a Caribbean cruise liner.
Red Rider
After meeting at the famous El MocamboEl Mocambo
The El Mocambo Tavern is a live music and entertainment venue in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. Located on Spadina Avenue, just south of College Street, the bar played an important role in the development of popular music in Toronto since the 19th century...
Tavern in Toronto, Cochrane joined the Canadian Rock Band Red Rider
Red Rider
Red Rider are a Canadian rock band popular in the 1980s. While the band achieved great success in Canada, in the US, the band never had a song in the Top 40....
in 1978 and served as their lead singer and main songwriter for more than ten years. Red Rider included Ken Greer
Ken Greer
Ken Greer is a Canadian guitarist and keyboardist. He was one of the founding members of the Canadian rock band Red Rider. He is the pedal steel guitarist whose soaring, searing lines give Red Rider its distinctive sound.-Biography:...
, Jeff Jones
Jeff Jones (musician)
Jeff Jones is a Canadian bass guitar player. He first gained fame as a member of the gospel rock band Ocean. Their million-selling 1971 single "Put Your Hand in the Hand" was penned by Gene MacLellan. The gramophone record received a gold disc awarded by the Recording Industry Association of...
, Peter Boynton and Rob Baker. Bruce Allen
Bruce Allen
Bruce Allen is an American physicist and director of the Max Planck Institute for Gravitational Physics in Hannover Germany and leader of the Einstein@Home project for the LIGO Scientific Collaboration...
managed the band from their debut until 1985. Cochrane recorded six studio albums with Red Rider plus a live album, a best of album and a box set. By 1986, the band was billed as "Tom Cochrane & Red Rider".
In 2002, Cochrane reunited with his former Red Rider bandmates Greer and Jones and continues to perform with them today. A complete listing of Red Rider's recordings is included below.
Solo career
Already a household name in Canada from his time with Red RiderRed Rider
Red Rider are a Canadian rock band popular in the 1980s. While the band achieved great success in Canada, in the US, the band never had a song in the Top 40....
, Cochrane launched his solo career in 1991 with the release of the song "Life is a Highway
Life Is a Highway
"Life Is a Highway" is a song written by Tom Cochrane, from his 1991 album Mad Mad World. The song was Cochrane's most famous song, as it was a number one hit in his native Canada. The song also peaked at number six on the Billboard charts in the United States in 1992...
". The single became a global success and was followed by the release of his Mad Mad World
Mad Mad World
- Personnel :* Tom Cochrane - vocals, acoustic and electric guitars, piano, harmonica, percussion, bass, keyboards, slide guitar* John Webster - percussion, piano, organ* Spider Sinnaeve - bass* Mickey Curry - drums...
album, which would reach the six million mark in worldwide sales. The albums Ragged Ass Road, Songs of a Circling Spirit, X-Ray Sierra and No Stranger followed. Cochrane's massive body of music and energetic live shows have established him as one of Canada's most-treasured artists.
Today
An avid golfer, pilot and hockey buff, Cochrane lives in Oakville, OntarioOakville, Ontario
Oakville is a town in Halton Region, on Lake Ontario in Southern Ontario, Canada, and is part of the Greater Toronto Area. As of the 2006 census the population was 165,613.-History:In 1793, Dundas Street was surveyed for a military road...
and spends summers at his cottage/studio on the shores of Georgian Bay
Georgian Bay
Georgian Bay is a large bay of Lake Huron, located entirely within Ontario, Canada...
in Northern Ontario
Northern Ontario
Northern Ontario is a region of the Canadian province of Ontario which lies north of Lake Huron , the French River and Lake Nipissing. The region has a land area of 802,000 km2 and constitutes 87% of the land area of Ontario, although it contains only about 6% of the population...
and winters part time at his home outside of Austin
Austin
Austin is the capital of the U.S. state of Texas.Austin may also refer to:-In the United States:*Austin, Arkansas*Austin, Colorado*Austin, Chicago, Illinois*Austin, Indiana*Austin, Minnesota*Austin, Nevada*Austin, Oregon...
, Texas
Texas
Texas is the second largest U.S. state by both area and population, and the largest state by area in the contiguous United States.The name, based on the Caddo word "Tejas" meaning "friends" or "allies", was applied by the Spanish to the Caddo themselves and to the region of their settlement in...
. Tom and his wife Kathleene have two daughters, Cody and Evanne. Cochrane continues to tour and perform in Canada where he remains one of the country's most popular live acts.
Honours
Canadian Music Hall of Fame Induction: Cochrane was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of FameCanadian Music Hall of Fame
The Canadian Music Hall of Fame honors Canadian musicians for their lifetime achievements in music. The ceremony is held each year as part of the Juno Award ceremonies. Members of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame represent many of the world's great talents...
in 2003 for outstanding contribution to the greater recognition of Canadian music. The ceremony took place April 5, 2003 at Casino du Lac-Meamy in Gatineau, Quebec. The following night, Cochrane was honoured for his induction in a speech by Jeff Healey
Jeff Healey
Norman Jeffrey "Jeff" Healey was a blind Canadian jazz and blues-rock vocalist and guitarist who attained musical and personal popularity, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s.-Early life:...
at the Juno Awards at the Corel Centre (now Scotiabank Place
Scotiabank Place
Scotiabank Place is a multi-purpose arena, located in Kanata, a suburban district of Ottawa, Ontario. It is home to the Ottawa Senators of the National Hockey League. It has also hosted the Canadian University Men's Basketball Championship...
in Ottawa). Cochrane closed the show by performing a medley of his hits and was joined onstage by host Shania Twain
Shania Twain
Shania Twain, OC is a Canadian country pop singer-songwriter. Her album The Woman in Me , brought her fame and her 1997 album Come On Over, became the best-selling album of all time by a female musician in any genre, and the best-selling country album of all time. It has sold over 40 million...
for the final song, "Life Is A Highway
Life Is a Highway
"Life Is a Highway" is a song written by Tom Cochrane, from his 1991 album Mad Mad World. The song was Cochrane's most famous song, as it was a number one hit in his native Canada. The song also peaked at number six on the Billboard charts in the United States in 1992...
".
Order of Canada: In April 2008, Cochrane received the highest honour for a Canadian Citizen when he was invested as an Officer of the Order of Canada
Order of Canada
The Order of Canada is a Canadian national order, admission into which is, within the system of orders, decorations, and medals of Canada, the second highest honour for merit...
. Cochrane was honoured for a lifetime of charity work, his contribution to the arts and for being unabashedly Canadian.
Canada's Walk of Fame: In September 2009, Cochrane was inducted onto Canada's Walk of Fame
Canada's Walk of Fame
Canada's Walk of Fame , located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, is a walk of fame that acknowledges the achievements and accomplishments of successful Canadians...
. The induction was highlighted by a 2-hour nationally televised gala at Toronto's Four Season's Center for the Performing Arts. Anne Murray
Anne Murray
Morna Anne Murray CC, ONS is a Canadian singer in pop, country and adult contemporary styles whose albums have sold over 54 million copies....
hosted the event which also included the inductions of Kim Cattrall
Kim Cattrall
Kim Victoria Cattrall is an English actress. She is known for her role as Samantha Jones in the HBO comedy/romance series Sex and the City, and for her leading roles in the 1980s films Police Academy, Big Trouble in Little China, Mannequin, and Porky's...
, Raymond Burr
Raymond Burr
Raymond William Stacey Burr was a Canadian actor, primarily known for his title roles in the television dramas Perry Mason and Ironside. His early acting career included roles on Broadway, radio, television and in film, usually as the villain...
, Blue Rodeo
Blue Rodeo
Blue Rodeo is a Canadian pop and country rock band, which was formed in 1984 in Toronto, Ontario. They have been signed with Warner Music Group since their debut album Outskirts in March 1987...
, Dsquared2, Howie Mandel
Howie Mandel
Howard Michael "Howie" Mandel is a Canadian stand-up comedian, television host, and actor. He is well known as host of the NBC game show Deal or No Deal, as well as the show's daytime and Canadian-English counterparts. Before his career as a game show host, Mandel was best known for his role on...
, Robert Munsch
Robert Munsch
Robert Norman Munsch, CM is an American-born Canadian children's author.-Personal life and career:Robert Munsch was born in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania...
and Chantal Petitclerc
Chantal Petitclerc
Chantal Petitclerc, CC is a Canadian wheelchair racer.At the age of thirteen, she lost the use of both legs when a heavy barn door fell on her...
.
Honorary Colonel: In November 2007, Cochrane was formally invested as an Honorary Colonel (HCol) by the Canadian Air Force's 409 "Nighthawks" Tactical Fighter Squadron. As part of his investiture weekend, Cochrane experienced his second flight in a CF-18.
Honorary Doctorate: In May 2005, Cochrane received an Honorary Doctorate from Brandon University
Brandon University
Brandon University is a Canadian university located in the city of Brandon, Manitoba, with an enrolment of 3383 full-time and part-time students. The current location was founded on July 13, 1899, as Brandon College as a Baptist institution. It was chartered as a university by then President Dr....
in Brandon
Brandon, Manitoba
Brandon is the second largest city in Manitoba, Canada, and is located in the southwestern area of the province. Brandon is the largest city in the Westman region of Manitoba. The city is located along the Assiniboine River. Spruce Woods Provincial Park and CFB Shilo are a relatively short distance...
, Manitoba
Manitoba
Manitoba is a Canadian prairie province with an area of . The province has over 110,000 lakes and has a largely continental climate because of its flat topography. Agriculture, mostly concentrated in the fertile southern and western parts of the province, is vital to the province's economy; other...
. In addition, musician James Ehnes
James Ehnes
James Ehnes, CM is a Canadian concert violinist.The son of Alan Ehnes, trumpet professor at Brandon University and Barbara Ehnes, former director of the Brandon School of Dance, James Ehnes began his violin studies at the age of four...
, journalist Henry Champ and actress Shirley Douglas
Shirley Douglas
Shirley Jean Douglas, OC is a Canadian television, film and stage actress and activist. Her acting career combined with her family name has made her recognisable in Canadian film, television and politics.-Personal life:...
received Honorary Doctorates from the University at the Spring Convocation held May 28, 2005.
Canadian Music Industry Humanitarian Award: In March 2005, Cochrane received the Humanitarian Award at the Canadian Music Industry Association's (CMIA) gala dinner in Toronto during the annual Canadian Music Week
Canadian Music Week
Canadian Music Week is an industry conference and music festival held over four days in various venues throughout Toronto, Ontario, Canada.-History:...
Festival.
Charity
Cochrane has been a longtime supporter of World VisionWorld Vision
World Vision, founded in the USA in 1950, is an evangelical relief and development organization whose stated goal is "to follow our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ in working with the poor and oppressed to promote human transformation, seek justice and bear witness to the good news of the Kingdom of...
and has traveled to Africa several times. He has also served as the Honorary Chairman of the SuperWalk for Parkinsons and has been a proud supporter of WSPA
World Society for the Protection of Animals
The World Society for the Protection of Animals is an international non-profit animal welfare organization and also a federation of such organisations and active in over 150 countries with more than 1000 member societies.- Organization :...
, War Child
War Child
War Child or Warchild may refer to:* Child soldiers, children who are used in war, as soldiers or in combat support* Military brat, military slang for a child or teenager of a military family* Refugee, children who are refugees of war...
, Amnesty International
Amnesty International
Amnesty International is an international non-governmental organisation whose stated mission is "to conduct research and generate action to prevent and end grave abuses of human rights, and to demand justice for those whose rights have been violated."Following a publication of Peter Benenson's...
, and the Make Poverty History
Make Poverty History
Make Poverty History is the name of a campaign that exists in a number of countries, including Australia, Canada, Denmark , Finland, New Zealand, Nigeria, Norway, Romania, the United Arab Emirates, Great Britain and Ireland...
campaign.
Canada For Asia: On January 13, 2005, Cochrane, his wife Kathleene and Alex Lifeson
Alex Lifeson
Aleksandar Živojinović, OC, better known by his stage name Alex Lifeson, is a second generation Serbian-Canadian musician, best known as the guitarist of the Canadian rock band Rush. In the summer of 1968, Lifeson founded the band that would become Rush with friend, drummer John Rutsey...
spearheaded a benefit concert in support of tsunami
Tsunami
A tsunami is a series of water waves caused by the displacement of a large volume of a body of water, typically an ocean or a large lake...
relief in Asia. 150 Canadian stars appeared including Anne Murray
Anne Murray
Morna Anne Murray CC, ONS is a Canadian singer in pop, country and adult contemporary styles whose albums have sold over 54 million copies....
, Bryan Adams
Bryan Adams
Bryan Adams, is a Canadian rock singer-songwriter, guitarist, bassist, producer, actor and photographer. Adams has won dozens of awards and nominations, including 20 Juno Awards among 56 nominations. He has also received 15 Grammy Award nominations including a win for Best Song Written...
, Blue Rodeo
Blue Rodeo
Blue Rodeo is a Canadian pop and country rock band, which was formed in 1984 in Toronto, Ontario. They have been signed with Warner Music Group since their debut album Outskirts in March 1987...
, The Tragically Hip
The Tragically Hip
The Tragically Hip, often referred to simply as The Hip, is a Canadian rock band from Kingston, Ontario, consisting of Gordon Downie , Paul Langlois , Rob Baker , Gord Sinclair and Johnny Fay . Since their formation in 1983 they have released 12 studio albums, two live albums, and 46 singles...
, Oscar Peterson
Oscar Peterson
Oscar Emmanuel Peterson was a Canadian jazz pianist and composer. He was called the "Maharaja of the keyboard" by Duke Ellington, "O.P." by his friends. He released over 200 recordings, won seven Grammy Awards, and received other numerous awards and honours over the course of his career...
, Celine Dion
Celine Dion
Céline Marie Claudette Dion, , , is a Canadian singer. Born to a large family from Charlemagne, Quebec, Dion emerged as a teen star in the French-speaking world after her manager and future husband René Angélil mortgaged his home to finance her first record...
, Rush
Rush (band)
Rush is a Canadian rock band formed in August 1968, in the Willowdale neighbourhood of Toronto, Ontario. The band is composed of bassist, keyboardist, and lead vocalist Geddy Lee, guitarist Alex Lifeson, and drummer and lyricist Neil Peart...
and Barenaked Ladies
Barenaked Ladies
Barenaked Ladies is a Canadian alternative rock band. The band is currently composed of Jim Creeggan, Kevin Hearn, Ed Robertson, and Tyler Stewart. Barenaked Ladies formed in 1988 in Scarborough, Ontario, then a suburban municipality outside the City of Toronto...
. The concert, which was produced and televised by CBC TV, raised over $4 million in pledges.
Live 8 Concert: On July 2, 2005, Cochrane kicked off the Canadian edition of the Live 8
Live 8
Live 8 was a string of benefit concerts that took place on 2 July 2005, in the G8 states and in South Africa. They were timed to precede the G8 Conference and summit held at the Gleneagles Hotel in Auchterarder, Scotland from 6–8 July 2005; they also coincided with the 20th anniversary of Live Aid...
benefit concerts in Barrie
Barrie
Barrie may refer to:* Barrie, city in Ontario, Canada* Barrie , Canadian federal electoral district* Barrie , provincial electoral district* Barrie—Simcoe—Bradford, former Canadian electoral district...
, Ontario
Ontario
Ontario is a province of Canada, located in east-central Canada. It is Canada's most populous province and second largest in total area. It is home to the nation's most populous city, Toronto, and the nation's capital, Ottawa....
performing his hits "Life Is A Highway" and "No Regrets". The Live 8 concerts took place in the G8
G8
The Group of Eight is a forum, created by France in 1975, for the governments of seven major economies: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In 1997, the group added Russia, thus becoming the G8...
states and in South Africa
South Africa
The Republic of South Africa is a country in southern Africa. Located at the southern tip of Africa, it is divided into nine provinces, with of coastline on the Atlantic and Indian oceans...
to pressure world leaders to drop the debt of the world's poorest nations, increase and improve aid, and negotiate fair trade rules in the interest of the poorest countries.
Solo
- 1974 - Hang on to Your ResistanceHang on to Your ResistanceHang on to Your Resistance is the debut album for Canadian musician Tom Cochrane, originally released in 1974 on Daffodil Records. The album was released under just his last name, Cochrane...
- 1991 - Mad Mad WorldMad Mad World- Personnel :* Tom Cochrane - vocals, acoustic and electric guitars, piano, harmonica, percussion, bass, keyboards, slide guitar* John Webster - percussion, piano, organ* Spider Sinnaeve - bass* Mickey Curry - drums...
- 1995 - Ragged Ass RoadRagged Ass RoadRagged Ass Road is the second solo album album by former Red Rider frontman Tom Cochrane, released in October of 1995. The album was named for Ragged Ass Road, a street in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories...
- 1997 - Songs of a Circling SpiritSongs of a Circling SpiritSongs of a Circling Spirit is an album by Canadian musician Tom Cochrane released in 1997 . The album contains newly-recorded acoustic versions of selected songs written by Cochrane, and previously recorded either by Cochrane or Red Rider.-Track listing:-Personnel:* Tom Cochrane - guitar, vocals,...
- 1998 - X-Ray SierraX-Ray SierraReleased in February 1999, X-Ray Sierra was a critically acclaimed solo album by former Red Rider frontman Tom Cochrane. It featured the hits "I Wonder", "Willie Dixon Said", "Heartbreak Girl" and "Stonecutters Arms". Cochrane received a Best Male Vocalist Juno nomination for X-Ray Sierra...
- 2006 - No StrangerNo StrangerNo Stranger is Canadian singer Tom Cochrane's first album for Universal Music Canada released in October 2006. No Stranger included the hits "Didn't Mean", "The Party's Not Over", "Northern Star", "Out of My Head", and a cover version of Norman Greenbaum's "Spirit in the Sky"...
With Red Rider
- 1980 - Don't Fight ItDon't Fight ItDon't Fight It is the debut album for the Canadian rock band Red Rider, which was released in 1980 . Don't Fight It sold more than 100,000 copies in Canada and earned Cochrane and Red Rider their first Gold album certification award and was later certified Platinum...
- 1981 - As Far as SiamAs Far as Siam- Personnel :* Tom Cochrane - lead vocals, rhythm guitar* Ken Greer - electric, steel and six string guitars, piano, organ* Jeff Jones - bass guitar, background vocals* Peter Boynton - piano, synthesizers, organ, vocals* Rob Baker - drums, percussion, harmonica...
- 1983 - NerudaNeruda (album)Neruda is the third studio album by the Canadian rock band Red Rider, released in 1983 . The album was recorded at Metalworks Studios in Toronto, Ontario. The figure on the album cover was inspired by Denise Sexton. The instrumental track "Light In The Tunnel" and "Power" have been used to open...
- 1984 - Breaking CurfewBreaking CurfewBreaking Curfew is the fourth studio album by the Canadian rock band Red Rider, released in 1984 . The album was recorded and mixed at Metalworks Studios and E.S.P...
- 1986 - Tom Cochrane & Red RiderTom Cochrane & Red RiderTom Cochrane & Red Rider is the fifth studio album by the Canadian rock band Red Rider, released on May 7, 1986 . A remastered CD was released by EMI in 2004. The album earned Cochrane two Juno Awards for Composer of the Year and Group of the Year.The album reached #116 on Billboard's 200 chart in...
(as Tom Cochrane & Red Rider) - 1988 - Victory DayVictory Day (album)Victory Day is an album by the Canadian rock band, Tom Cochrane & Red Rider, which was released in 1988 . Victory Day sold more than 200,000 copies in Canada and became Cochrane's first Double Platinum album with Red Rider. The album garnered Cochrane and Red Rider three Juno Award...
(as Tom Cochrane & Red Rider) - 1989 - The Symphony Sessions (as Tom Cochrane & Red Rider)
Compilation Albums
- 1987 - Over 60 Minutes with Red RiderOver 60 Minutes with Red RiderOver 60 Minutes with Red Rider is a compilation album for the Canadian rock band Red Rider, which was released in 1987 .-Track listing:...
- 1989 - Anthology 1980-1987
- 1993 - Ashes to Diamonds
- 2002 - Trapeze: The Collection
Solo
| Release date | Title | Chart peak | Album | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Canada Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and northward into the Arctic Ocean... RPM 100 |
US Hot 100 |
US Main- stream Rock |
|||
| 1973 | "You're Driving Me Crazy (Faith Healers)" | 71 | — | — | Hang on to Your Resistance Hang on to Your Resistance Hang on to Your Resistance is the debut album for Canadian musician Tom Cochrane, originally released in 1974 on Daffodil Records. The album was released under just his last name, Cochrane... |
| 1974 | "Charlie Was a Dancer" | — | — | — | |
| 1976 | "Sail On" | — | — | — | Non-album single |
| 1991 | "Life Is A Highway" | 1 | 6 | 6 | Mad Mad World Mad Mad World - Personnel :* Tom Cochrane - vocals, acoustic and electric guitars, piano, harmonica, percussion, bass, keyboards, slide guitar* John Webster - percussion, piano, organ* Spider Sinnaeve - bass* Mickey Curry - drums... |
| "No Regrets" | 3 | — | 7 | ||
| 1992 | "Sinking Like a Sunset" | 2 | — | — | |
| "Mad Mad World" | 25 | — | — | ||
| "Washed Away" | 7 | 88 | — | ||
| "Bigger Man" | 45 | — | — | ||
| 1995 | "I Wish You Well" | 1 | 101 | — | Ragged Ass Road Ragged Ass Road Ragged Ass Road is the second solo album album by former Red Rider frontman Tom Cochrane, released in October of 1995. The album was named for Ragged Ass Road, a street in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories... |
| "Wildest Dreams" | 5 | — | — | ||
| 1996 | "Dreamer's Dream" | 4 | — | — | |
| "Crawl" | 11 | — | — | ||
| 1997 | "Lunatic Fringe" | 70 | — | — | Songs of a Circling Spirit Songs of a Circling Spirit Songs of a Circling Spirit is an album by Canadian musician Tom Cochrane released in 1997 . The album contains newly-recorded acoustic versions of selected songs written by Cochrane, and previously recorded either by Cochrane or Red Rider.-Track listing:-Personnel:* Tom Cochrane - guitar, vocals,... |
| "Good Man Feeling Bad" | 46 | — | — | ||
| 1999 | "I Wonder" | 86 | — | — | X-Ray Sierra X-Ray Sierra Released in February 1999, X-Ray Sierra was a critically acclaimed solo album by former Red Rider frontman Tom Cochrane. It featured the hits "I Wonder", "Willie Dixon Said", "Heartbreak Girl" and "Stonecutters Arms". Cochrane received a Best Male Vocalist Juno nomination for X-Ray Sierra... |
| "Willie Dixon Said" | 30 | — | — | ||
| "Stonecutter's Arms" | — | — | — | ||
| "Heartbreak Girl" | — | — | — | ||
| 2005 | "Christmas All The Time" | — | — | — | Non-album single |
| 2006 | "Didn't Mean" | — | — | — | No Stranger No Stranger No Stranger is Canadian singer Tom Cochrane's first album for Universal Music Canada released in October 2006. No Stranger included the hits "Didn't Mean", "The Party's Not Over", "Northern Star", "Out of My Head", and a cover version of Norman Greenbaum's "Spirit in the Sky"... |
| "The Party's Not Over" | — | — | — | ||
| 2007 | "Out Of My Head" | — | — | — | |
| "Northern Star" | — | — | — | ||
| "—" denotes a single that didn't chart | |||||
With Red Rider
| Release date | Title | Chart peak | Album | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Canada Canada Canada is a North American country consisting of ten provinces and three territories. Located in the northern part of the continent, it extends from the Atlantic Ocean in the east to the Pacific Ocean in the west, and northward into the Arctic Ocean... RPM 100 |
US Hot 100 |
US Main- stream Rock |
|||
| 1980 | "White Hot" | 20 | 48 | — | Don't Fight It Don't Fight It Don't Fight It is the debut album for the Canadian rock band Red Rider, which was released in 1980 . Don't Fight It sold more than 100,000 copies in Canada and earned Cochrane and Red Rider their first Gold album certification award and was later certified Platinum... |
| "Don't Fight It" | 75 | 103 | — | ||
| 1981 | "What Have You Got To Do" | 42 | — | — | As Far as Siam As Far as Siam - Personnel :* Tom Cochrane - lead vocals, rhythm guitar* Ken Greer - electric, steel and six string guitars, piano, organ* Jeff Jones - bass guitar, background vocals* Peter Boynton - piano, synthesizers, organ, vocals* Rob Baker - drums, percussion, harmonica... |
| "Lunatic Fringe" | — | — | 11 | ||
| 1983 | "Human Race" | 29 | — | 11 | Neruda Neruda (album) Neruda is the third studio album by the Canadian rock band Red Rider, released in 1983 . The album was recorded at Metalworks Studios in Toronto, Ontario. The figure on the album cover was inspired by Denise Sexton. The instrumental track "Light In The Tunnel" and "Power" have been used to open... |
| "Power (Strength in Numbers)" | — | — | 13 | ||
| "Crack the Sky (Breakaway)" | — | — | 39 | ||
| 1984 | "Young Thing, Wild Dreams (Rock Me)" | 44 | 71 | 13 | Breaking Curfew Breaking Curfew Breaking Curfew is the fourth studio album by the Canadian rock band Red Rider, released in 1984 . The album was recorded and mixed at Metalworks Studios and E.S.P... |
| "Breaking Curfew" | 93 | — | — | ||
| 1986 | "Boy Inside The Man" | 25 | — | 17 | Tom Cochrane & Red Rider Tom Cochrane & Red Rider Tom Cochrane & Red Rider is the fifth studio album by the Canadian rock band Red Rider, released on May 7, 1986 . A remastered CD was released by EMI in 2004. The album earned Cochrane two Juno Awards for Composer of the Year and Group of the Year.The album reached #116 on Billboard's 200 chart in... |
| "The Untouchable One" | 70 | — | 48 | ||
| 1987 | "One More Time (Some Old Habits)" | 85 | — | — | |
| "Ocean Blues (Emotion Blue)" | 88 | — | — | ||
| 1988 | "Big League" | 4 | — | 9 | Victory Day Victory Day (album) Victory Day is an album by the Canadian rock band, Tom Cochrane & Red Rider, which was released in 1988 . Victory Day sold more than 200,000 copies in Canada and became Cochrane's first Double Platinum album with Red Rider. The album garnered Cochrane and Red Rider three Juno Award... |
| 1989 | "Good Times" | 2 | — | — | |
| "Victory Day" | 32 | — | — | ||
| "Different Drummer" | 67 | — | — | ||
| "White Hot" (Live) | 50 | — | — | The Symphony Sessions | |
| 2002 | "Just Like Ali" | — | — | — | Trapeze: The Collection |
| "Pictures From The Edge" | — | — | — | ||
| "—" denotes a single that didn't chart | |||||
Music videos
| Year | Video | Director |
|---|---|---|
| 1988 | "Big League" | Victory Day |
| 1991 | "Life Is a Highway" | David Storey |
| 1992 | "No Regrets" | Curtis Wehrfritz |
| 1995 | "Wildest Dreams" | George Dougherty |
Awards
Juno Awards:- 2003 - Canadian Music Hall of Fame Inductee
- 1992 - Songwriter of the Year
- 1992 - Male Vocalist of the Year
- 1992 - Single of the Year ("Life Is A Highway")
- 1992 - Album of the Year (Mad Mad World)
- 1987 - Composer of the Year
- 1987 - Group of the Year (Tom Cochrane & Red Rider)
Juno Award
Juno Award
The Juno Awards are presented annually to Canadian musical artists and bands to acknowledge their artistic and technical achievements in all aspects of music...
nominations:
- 2008 - Adult Alternative Album of the Year (No Stranger)
- 2000 - Best Male Artist
- 1996 - Male Vocalist of the Year
- 1996 - Album of the Year (Ragged Ass Road)
- 1993 - Songwriter of the Year
- 1993 - Best Selling Album [Foreign or Domestic] (Mad Mad World)
- 1993 - Canadian Entertainer of the Year
- 1992 - Producer of the Year ("All the King's Men")
- 1990 - Group of the Year (Tom Cochrane & Red Rider)
- 1990 - Album of the Year (Tom Cochrane & Red Rider - Victory Day)
- 1990 - Canadian Entertainer of the Year (Tom Cochrane & Red Rider)
- 1989 - Group of the Year (Tom Cochrane & Red Rider)
- 1989 - Canadian Entertainer of the Year (Tom Cochrane & Red Rider)
- 1987 - Composer of the Year
- 1987 - Canadian Entertainer of the Year (Tom Cochrane & Red Rider)
Grammy nominations
- 1993 - Life Is A Highway (Best Rock Vocal performance)
ASCAP Awards
- 1993 - Pop Music Award (Life Is A Highway)
- 2007 - Most Airplay Award (Life Is A Highway)
SOCAN Awards
- 2008 - Country Award (Life Is A Highway - Rascall Flatts version)
- 2003 - National Achievement Award
- 2003 - Classic Award ("Life Is A Highway")
- 1997 - Pop Music Award ("Dreamer's Dream" and "Wildest Dreams")
- 1996 - Pop Music Award ("I Wish You Well")
- 1993 - Pop Music Award ("No Regrets")
- 1992 - Pop Music Award ("Life Is A Highway")
Television and movies
- "Lunatic Fringe"- Matthew Modine film Vision QuestVision QuestVision Quest is a 1985 coming of age drama film starring Matthew Modine, Linda Fiorentino, and Ronny Cox. It is based on Terry Davis' novel of the same name. In some countries, it was released as Crazy for You to market on Madonna's emerging fame and the popularity of the song...
- "Lunatic Fringe"- Smugglers Blues episode of Miami ViceMiami ViceMiami Vice is an American television series produced by Michael Mann for NBC. The series starred Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas as two Metro-Dade Police Department detectives working undercover in Miami. It ran for five seasons on NBC from 1984–1989...
feat. Glenn Frey - "Human Race"- Miami ViceMiami ViceMiami Vice is an American television series produced by Michael Mann for NBC. The series starred Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas as two Metro-Dade Police Department detectives working undercover in Miami. It ran for five seasons on NBC from 1984–1989...
- "Not So Far Away"- Keanu Reeves film Bill and Ted's Excellent Adventure
- "Vacation (In My Mind)"- BaywatchBaywatchBaywatch is an American action drama series about the Los Angeles County Lifeguards who patrol the beaches of Los Angeles County, California, starring David Hasselhoff. The show ran in its original title and format from 1989 to 1999, sans the 1990-1991 season, of which it was not in production...
. - "Friendly Advice"- Used in a bar scene in Melrose Place.
- "Ragged Ass Road"- Due SouthDue SouthDue South is a Canadian crime drama series with elements of comedy. The series was created by Paul Haggis, produced by Alliance Communications, and stars Paul Gross, David Marciano, and latterly Callum Keith Rennie...
- "Life is a Highway"- used in the film Cheaper By The DozenCheaper by the DozenCheaper by the Dozen is a biographical book written by Frank Bunker Gilbreth, Jr. and Ernestine Gilbreth Carey that tells the story of time and motion study and efficiency experts Frank Bunker Gilbreth and Lillian Moller Gilbreth, and their twelve children. The book focuses on the many years the...
- "Life is a Highway"- Disney/Pixar "CarsCars (film)Cars is a 2006 American animated family film produced by Pixar and directed by John Lasseter and co-directed by Joe Ranft. It is the seventh Disney·Pixar feature film, and Pixar's final, independently-produced motion picture before its purchase by Disney...
" - "Life Is a Highway"- American IdolAmerican IdolAmerican Idol, titled American Idol: The Search for a Superstar for the first season, is a reality television singing competition created by Simon Fuller and produced by FremantleMedia North America and 19 Entertainment...
several occasions - "Life Is a Highway"- Canadian IdolCanadian IdolCanadian Idol is a Canadian reality television competition show which aired on CTV, based on the British show Pop Idol. The show was a competition to find the most talented young singer in Canada, and was hosted by Ben Mulroney. Jon Dore was the "roving reporter" for the first three seasons...
- "Life Is a Highway"- Nashville StarNashville StarNashville Star is an American reality television program. It was transmitted during mid-2008 on NBC, following five seasons on USA Network. It premiered on March 8, 2003, and its five seasons on USA made it the longest-running competition series on cable television. In Canada, the show aired on CMT...
- "Big League"- Canadian IdolCanadian IdolCanadian Idol is a Canadian reality television competition show which aired on CTV, based on the British show Pop Idol. The show was a competition to find the most talented young singer in Canada, and was hosted by Ben Mulroney. Jon Dore was the "roving reporter" for the first three seasons...
- "Life Is a Highway"- Clash of the ChoirsClash of the ChoirsClash of the Choirs is a reality talent contest miniseries that debuted on NBC in the United States on December 17, 2007. There were four episodes scheduled in the “quick competition”...
- "Life Is a Highway"- 2008 "Employee Transfer" episode of The Office
Additional career highlights
- In 1985, Cochrane participated in the recording of the Northern Lights song "Tears Are Not Enough" with proceeds to Ethiopian famine relief.
- In 1987, Cochrane produced the Grapes of Wrath's second album "Treehouse". It became their breakthrough album and included the hit song "Peace of Mind".
- In 1992, Cochrane sang the Canadian national anthemO CanadaIt has been noted that the opening theme of "O Canada" bears a strong resemblance to the "Marsch der Priester" , from the opera Die Zauberflöte , composed in 1791 by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, and that Lavallée's melody was inspired by Mozart's tune...
before game 2 of the 1992 World Series1992 World Series-Game 1:Saturday, October 17, 1992 at Atlanta-Fulton County Stadium in Atlanta, GeorgiaBraves fans had plenty to worry about in regard to both starting pitchers. Tom Glavine's post-season career had been less than stellar, including giving up eight runs in the second inning of Game 6 of the NLCS...
at Fulton County Stadium in Atlanta when The Toronto Blue JaysToronto Blue JaysThe Toronto Blue Jays are a professional baseball team located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. The Blue Jays are a member of the Eastern Division of Major League Baseball 's American League ....
beat The Atlanta BravesAtlanta BravesThe Atlanta Braves are a professional baseball club based in Atlanta, Georgia. The Braves are a member of the Eastern Division of Major League Baseball's National League. The Braves have played in Turner Field since 1997....
5-4 on their way to winning their first World Series. - In the fall of 1989 Tom made his first of many trips to Africa with the faith based NGO organization World Vision
- In the 90's, Cochrane performed at the Kumbaya FestivalKumbaya FestivalThe Kumbaya Festival was an annual Canadian music festival in the 1990s.It was organized by Molly Johnson as a benefit for Canadian charities and groups doing work around HIV and AIDS, and was broadcast annually on MuchMusic....
s in Toronto. The annual concerts were AIDS/HIV fundraisers organized by singer/songwriter Molly JohnsonMolly JohnsonMolly Johnson, OC is a Canadian Juno Award-winning singer-songwriter of pop and jazz.-Biography:Johnson began as a child performer, receiving formal training from the National Ballet School and the Banff School of Fine Arts...
. - On September 4, 1995, Cochrane's "I Wish You Well" became the first Canadian song to debut at #1 on the RPM Canadian Pop Charts.
- in 1999, Country singer Chris LedouxChris LeDouxChris Ledoux was an American country music singer-songwriter, bronze sculptor and rodeo champion.During his career LeDoux recorded 36 albums which have sold more than six million units in the United States as of January 2007...
released a version of Cochrane's "Life Is A HighwayLife Is a Highway"Life Is a Highway" is a song written by Tom Cochrane, from his 1991 album Mad Mad World. The song was Cochrane's most famous song, as it was a number one hit in his native Canada. The song also peaked at number six on the Billboard charts in the United States in 1992...
". - In June 1999, Cochrane was involved in a light plane crash in MontrealMontrealMontreal is a city in Canada. It is the largest city in the province of Quebec, the second-largest city in Canada and the seventh largest in North America...
, after his plane's engine stalled just after take-off. No one was injured. - In November 2002, Cochrane performed his song "Just Like Ali" before the legendary Muhammad AliMuhammad AliMuhammad Ali is an American former professional boxer, philanthropist and social activist...
during a halftime event at a Toronto Argonauts CFLCanadian Football LeagueThe Canadian Football League or CFL is a professional sports league located in Canada. The CFL is the highest level of competition in Canadian football, a form of gridiron football closely related to American football....
game at Skydome in Toronto. - In December 2003, Cochrane traveled to KabulKabulKabul , spelt Caubul in some classic literatures, is the capital and largest city of Afghanistan. It is also the capital of the Kabul Province, located in the eastern section of Afghanistan...
as the key musical guest for a CBC special called, Rick Mercer's Christmas in KabulChristmas in KabulChristmas in Kabul is a CBC Christmas special about comedian Rick Mercer going to Afghanistan to bring Christmas cheer to the Canadian troops stationed outside Kabul....
. - In 2005, Cochrane released the Holiday song "Christmas All The Time".
- On January 13, 2005, Cochrane and his wife Kathleene spearheaded the "Canada For Asia" benefit concert in support of tsunami relief in Asia. The concert, which was produced and televised by CBC TV, raised over $4 million in pledges.
- On July 2, 2005, Cochrane kicked off the Canadian edition of the Live 8Live 8Live 8 was a string of benefit concerts that took place on 2 July 2005, in the G8 states and in South Africa. They were timed to precede the G8 Conference and summit held at the Gleneagles Hotel in Auchterarder, Scotland from 6–8 July 2005; they also coincided with the 20th anniversary of Live Aid...
benefit concerts in BarrieBarrieBarrie may refer to:* Barrie, city in Ontario, Canada* Barrie , Canadian federal electoral district* Barrie , provincial electoral district* Barrie—Simcoe—Bradford, former Canadian electoral district...
, OntarioOntarioOntario is a province of Canada, located in east-central Canada. It is Canada's most populous province and second largest in total area. It is home to the nation's most populous city, Toronto, and the nation's capital, Ottawa....
, performing his hits "Life Is A Highway" and "No Regrets". The Live 8 concerts took place in the G8G8The Group of Eight is a forum, created by France in 1975, for the governments of seven major economies: Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In 1997, the group added Russia, thus becoming the G8...
states and in South AfricaSouth AfricaThe Republic of South Africa is a country in southern Africa. Located at the southern tip of Africa, it is divided into nine provinces, with of coastline on the Atlantic and Indian oceans...
to pressure world leaders to drop the debt of the world's poorest nations, increase and improve aid, and negotiate fair trade rules in the interest of the poorest countries. - In 2006, Rascal FlattsRascal FlattsRascal Flatts is an American country music band that originated in Columbus, Ohio, United States of America. Since its inception, Rascal Flatts has been composed of three members: Gary LeVox , Jay DeMarcus and Joe Don Rooney...
recorded Cochrane's "Life Is A HighwayLife Is a Highway"Life Is a Highway" is a song written by Tom Cochrane, from his 1991 album Mad Mad World. The song was Cochrane's most famous song, as it was a number one hit in his native Canada. The song also peaked at number six on the Billboard charts in the United States in 1992...
" for the animated Disney motion picture "CarsCars (film)Cars is a 2006 American animated family film produced by Pixar and directed by John Lasseter and co-directed by Joe Ranft. It is the seventh Disney·Pixar feature film, and Pixar's final, independently-produced motion picture before its purchase by Disney...
". The song became a major hit on both the Pop and Country charts in the U.S. and Canada. - Cochrane joined Rascal FlattsRascal FlattsRascal Flatts is an American country music band that originated in Columbus, Ohio, United States of America. Since its inception, Rascal Flatts has been composed of three members: Gary LeVox , Jay DeMarcus and Joe Don Rooney...
onstage to perform "Life Is A HighwayLife Is a Highway"Life Is a Highway" is a song written by Tom Cochrane, from his 1991 album Mad Mad World. The song was Cochrane's most famous song, as it was a number one hit in his native Canada. The song also peaked at number six on the Billboard charts in the United States in 1992...
" before a sold-out crowd at Rexall Place in Edmonton on February 24, 2007. - "Life Is A Highway" was also performed on "America's Got TalentAmerica's Got TalentAmerica's Got Talent is an American reality television series on the NBC television network, and part of the global British Got Talent franchise. It is a talent show that features singers, dancers, magicians, comedians, and other performers of all ages competing for the advertised top prize of...
" by Jason Pritchett in the Semi-Final round in July 2007. - In 2007, Score Golf Magazine ranked Cochrane as Canada's #1 celebrity musician golfer. His close friends Gil MooreGil MooreGil Moore is most famous for being the drummer and vocalist of the Canadian power trio, Triumph...
of TriumphTriumph (band)Triumph is a Canadian hard rock power trio that was popular in the late 1970s through the 1980s. Eight of the band's albums were certified gold or higher, and Triumph was nominated for multiple Juno Awards, including Group of the Year Award in 1979, 1985, 1986 and 1987.Like their fellow Canadians...
and Alex LifesonAlex LifesonAleksandar Živojinović, OC, better known by his stage name Alex Lifeson, is a second generation Serbian-Canadian musician, best known as the guitarist of the Canadian rock band Rush. In the summer of 1968, Lifeson founded the band that would become Rush with friend, drummer John Rutsey...
of RushRush (band)Rush is a Canadian rock band formed in August 1968, in the Willowdale neighbourhood of Toronto, Ontario. The band is composed of bassist, keyboardist, and lead vocalist Geddy Lee, guitarist Alex Lifeson, and drummer and lyricist Neil Peart...
were ranked #2 and #4 respectively. - In December 2007, Cochrane inducted Canadian Superstar Gordon LightfootGordon LightfootGordon Meredith Lightfoot, Jr. is a Canadian singer-songwriter who achieved international success in folk, folk-rock, and country music, and has been credited for helping define the folk-pop sound of the 1960s and 1970s...
into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of FameCanadian Songwriters Hall of FameThe Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame is a Canadian non-profit organization, founded in 1998 by Frank Davies, that inducts Canadians into their Hall of Fame within three different categories: songwriters, songs, and those others who have made a significant contribution with respect to...
at a ceremony in Toronto. Cochrane performed Lightfoot's "Early Morning Rain" during the tribute. - In February 2008, Cochrane and John MellencampJohn MellencampJohn Mellencamp, previously known by the stage names Johnny Cougar, John Cougar, and John Cougar Mellencamp, is an American rock singer-songwriter, musician, painter and occasional actor known for his catchy, populist brand of heartland rock that eschews synthesizers and other artificial sounds...
toured Canada together performing at major arenas as part of a 12-date double-bill. - At the 2008 Juno Awards, Cochrane inducted Triumph into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame. Cochrane's longtime friend Gil Moore is a member of the recently reunited Canadian rock band.
- In 2008 & 2009, Cochrane performed free concerts at the Glen Abbey Golf Club in Toronto during the RBC Canadian Open PGA Tournament.
- In 2008, Cochrane recorded "Old Man" for the Neil YoungNeil YoungNeil Percival Young, OC, OM is a Canadian singer-songwriter who is widely regarded as one of the most influential musicians of his generation...
tribute album "Borrowed Tunes II". - In October 2008, Cochrane performed his song "Big League" at the Vancouver CanucksVancouver CanucksThe Vancouver Canucks are a professional ice hockey team based in Vancouver, :British Columbia, Canada. They are members of the Northwest Division of the Western Conference of the National Hockey League . The Canucks play their home games at Rogers Arena, formerly known as General Motors Place,...
home opener in honour of Luc BourdonLuc BourdonLuc Bourdon was a Canadian professional Ice Hockey Defenceman who played for the Vancouver Canucks of the National Hockey League and their American Hockey League affiliate, the Manitoba Moose, from 2006 until 2008...
, a promising young defenseman killed in a motorcycle accident in June 2008. - In July 2009, Cochrane was invited by his friend Mike WeirMike WeirMichael Richard Weir, CM, O.Ont is a Canadian professional golfer on the PGA Tour. He spent over 110 weeks in the top-10 of the Official World Golf Rankings between 2001 and 2005. He is best known for winning the Masters in 2003....
to play in the inaugural "Mike Weir Charity Classic" with Michael JordanMichael JordanMichael Jeffrey Jordan is a former American professional basketball player, active entrepreneur, and majority owner of the Charlotte Bobcats...
, Kevin CostnerKevin CostnerKevin Michael Costner is an American actor, singer, musician, producer, director, and businessman. He has been nominated for three BAFTA Awards, won two Academy Awards, and two Golden Globe Awards. Costner's roles include Lt. John J...
and several PGA Stars. - In 2008 & 2009, Cochrane qualified for and participated in the Canadian Senior Men's Golf Championship, the Ontario Senior Men's Golf Championship and the Ontario Men's Mid-Amateur Championship.
- In September 2009, Cochrane was inducted onto Canada's Walk of FameCanada's Walk of FameCanada's Walk of Fame , located in Toronto, Ontario, Canada, is a walk of fame that acknowledges the achievements and accomplishments of successful Canadians...
and received a star on the sidewalk in Toronto's theatre district. - In October 2009, Cochrane's Life is a HighwayLife Is a Highway"Life Is a Highway" is a song written by Tom Cochrane, from his 1991 album Mad Mad World. The song was Cochrane's most famous song, as it was a number one hit in his native Canada. The song also peaked at number six on the Billboard charts in the United States in 1992...
was voted #1 road song of all-time in the Econo Lodge "Travelin' Tunes" online survey of more than 20,000 people. - On November 23, 2009, Cochrane received SOCAN awards for 5 of his songs reaching more than 100,000 plays on Canadian radio including Lunatic Fringe, Big League, Boy Inside The Man and I Wish You Well.
- On November 26, 2009, Cochrane joined World VisionWorld VisionWorld Vision, founded in the USA in 1950, is an evangelical relief and development organization whose stated goal is "to follow our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ in working with the poor and oppressed to promote human transformation, seek justice and bear witness to the good news of the Kingdom of...
President Dave Toycen to launch "Five for 5" campaign at a media event in Toronto. Cochrane urged Canadians to take 5 minutes to do 5 things to save a child's life. - On December 12, 2009, Cochrane & Red Rider performed at a massive outdoor celebration to conclude Day 44 of the Olympic Torch Relay on Parliament HillParliament HillParliament Hill , colloquially known as The Hill, is an area of Crown land on the southern banks of the Ottawa River in downtown Ottawa, Ontario. Its Gothic revival suite of buildingsthe parliament buildings serves as the home of the Parliament of Canada and contains a number of architectural...
in OttawaOttawaOttawa is the capital of Canada, the second largest city in the Province of Ontario, and the fourth largest city in the country. The city is located on the south bank of the Ottawa River in the eastern portion of Southern Ontario...
. Canadian Prime MinisterPrime ministerA prime minister is the most senior minister of cabinet in the executive branch of government in a parliamentary system. In many systems, the prime minister selects and may dismiss other members of the cabinet, and allocates posts to members within the government. In most systems, the prime...
Stephen HarperStephen HarperStephen Joseph Harper is the 22nd and current Prime Minister of Canada and leader of the Conservative Party. Harper became prime minister when his party formed a minority government after the 2006 federal election...
addressed the crowd during the event. - On February 15, 2010, Cochrane & Red Rider performed at Molson Canadian Hockey House in VancouverVancouverVancouver is a coastal seaport city on the mainland of British Columbia, Canada. It is the hub of Greater Vancouver, which, with over 2.3 million residents, is the third most populous metropolitan area in the country,...
during the 2010 Olympic Games. Cochrane was part of a legion of Canadian Music Stars who performed in Vancouver during the games. - On February 18, 2010, Cochrane was invited to be a part of the charity recording remake of K'NaanK'naanK'naan , born Keinan Abdi Warsame in 1978, is a Somali Canadian poet, rapper, singer, songwriter and instrumentalist.-Biography:Born in Somalia, K'naan spent his childhood in Mogadishu and lived there during the Somali Civil War, which began in 1991. His aunt, Magool, was one of Somalia's most...
's song Wavin' FlagWavin' Flag"Wavin' Flag" is a song by Somali-Canadian artist K'naan from his album Troubadour. The song was a global hit, reaching the top ten in 19 charts around the world and was chosen as Coca-Cola's promotional anthem for the 2010 FIFA World Cup, hosted by South Africa. The English version was released as...
in support of the victims of the earthquake in HaitiHaitiHaiti , officially the Republic of Haiti , is a Caribbean country. It occupies the western, smaller portion of the island of Hispaniola, in the Greater Antillean archipelago, which it shares with the Dominican Republic. Ayiti was the indigenous Taíno or Amerindian name for the island...
. Canadian Music Hall of Famer Bob EzrinBob EzrinRobert Alan "Bob" Ezrin is a Canadian music producer and keyboardist, known for his work with artists including Alice Cooper, Kiss and Pink Floyd. He was inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 2004.-Biography:...
produced Young Artists for HaitiYoung Artists for HaitiYoung Artists for Haiti is a movement to engage Canada's young musicians to continue to inspire an ongoing effort and contribution to Canadian charities for their work to help the people of Haiti overcome the devastation from the 7.1 magnitude earthquake that rocked the country on January 12, 2010...
's version of the song featuring many of Canada's biggest names in music. The song debuted at #1 on the Canadian music charts in March 2010. - On April 23, 2010, Cochrane performed at the 2010 Canadian Olympic CommitteeCanadian Olympic CommitteeThe Canadian Olympic Committee - COC is the private, non-profit organization representing Canadian athletes in the International Olympic Committee and the Pan American Games. It was formally recognized by the IOC in 1907. The COC also represents the selection of Canadian cities in their bid for...
's Hall of Fame Induction dinner. Cochrane joined other Canadian stars including Sarah McLachlanSarah McLachlanSarah Ann McLachlan, OC, OBC is a Canadian musician, singer and songwriter. Known for her emotional ballads and mezzo-soprano vocal range, as of 2006, she has sold over 40 million albums worldwide. McLachlan's best-selling album to date is Surfacing, for which she won two Grammy Awards and four...
, Simple PlanSimple PlanSimple Plan is a Canadian pop punk band from Montréal, Québec. The band has had no line up changes since its inception in 1999. Members are Pierre Bouvier , Jeff Stinco , Sébastien Lefebvre , David Desrosiers and Chuck Comeau...
, Ginette RenoGinette RenoGinette Reno, OC, CQ is a French-Canadian author, composer, singer, and actress. She is known by the nickname .Born as Ginette Reynault in Montreal, Quebec, she played the role of Maria Barberini in the independent film Mambo Italiano and played the mother in Léolo.She has recorded in both...
, the Canadian Tenors, Annie Villeneuve and Nikki YanofskyNikki YanofskyNicole "Nikki" Yanofsky is a Canadian jazz-pop singer from Hampstead, Quebec. She is involved in charitable causes, and released her first studio album on her own label, A440 Entertainment, and on Decca Records outside of Canada. Yanofsky sang Canada's national anthem at the opening ceremonies of...
. - In April, 2010, Canadian Country singer Jaydee BixbyJaydee BixbyJaydee Bixby is a Canadian country musician who was the runner-up on the fifth season of Canadian Idol. In 2008 he signed with Her Royal Majesty's Records and went on to release his debut album Cowboys and Cadillacs...
's version of Cochrane's song Boy Inside the Man made the Top 20 on the Canadian Country Music charts. - In May 2010, the debut CD by Andrew Cole, "Why We Wonder" is set for release. Cole is managed by Tom Cochrane's wife, Kathleene Cochrane. The album features a cover of Cochrane's "Out of My Head".
See also
- Music of CanadaMusic of CanadaThe music of Canada has influences that have shaped the country. Aboriginals, the British, and the French have all made unique contributions to the musical heritage of Canada. The music has subsequently been heavily influenced by American culture because of its proximity and migration between...
- Canadian rockCanadian rockCanadian rock describes a wide and diverse variety of music produced by Canadians, beginning with American style rock 'n' roll in the mid-20th century. Since then Canada has had a considerable impact on the development of the modern popular music called rock...
- Canadian Music Hall of FameCanadian Music Hall of FameThe Canadian Music Hall of Fame honors Canadian musicians for their lifetime achievements in music. The ceremony is held each year as part of the Juno Award ceremonies. Members of the Canadian Music Hall of Fame represent many of the world's great talents...
- List of diamond-certified albums in Canada