The Canadian music industry experienced an unforgettable moment with the induction of 13 iconic rock bands from the 1970s and 1980s into Canada’s Walk of Fame. Dubbed Canada’s Walk of Fame Presents Canada’s Rock of Fame, this event brought together some of the country’s most influential musicians. The inductees included April Wine, Chilliwack, Glass Tiger, Lee Aaron, Lighthouse, Loverboy, Max Webster, Michel Pagliaro, Platinum Blonde, PRISM, Rough Trade, The Parachute Club, and Trooper.
Canadian agency e=mc² events designed, scripted and delivered this awards program with perfect timing, energy, and attention to detail. The event was more than just a tribute to the past; it was a celebration of Canada’s musical legacy and its impact on the global stage. These bands have written countless songs, sold millions of records, and travelled the world, making them household names for generations of fans. The induction ceremony in Toronto served as a Canada-wide celebration, with tickets selling out in just 10 minutes, underscoring the excitement and anticipation surrounding the event. Co-entered with Jeffrey Latimer of Canada’s Walk of Fame the event won Best Entertainment Production – Public Event at the 2024 Canadian Event Awards.

Photography Credit: Gerard Richardson
The production of this awards show was complex, with multiple goals: to honour the inductees, recognize sponsors, educate guests about Canada’s Walk of Fame, and create an emotional experience for the audience that would build lasting connections and support for the organization. Emotional intelligence was key to designing a meaningful evening, ensuring that every aspect of the event resonated with the attendees, the musicians, and the fans.
The event’s nostalgic concept was carefully crafted to create a sense of connection between the bands, the audience, and those who have dedicated their lives to Canadian music. The stage design transported attendees back to the rock concerts of the 1970s and 1980s, with truss structures and lighting reminiscent of stadium shows from the era. Archival footage was presented in its original 4×3 format, resisting the temptation to modernize it, further enhancing the feeling of stepping back in time.

Photography Credit: Gerard Richardson

Photography Credit: Gerard Richardson
The induction ceremony was designed with precision. Each of the 13 bands was honoured equally, with a video tribute telling their story, a live performance (or a tribute act for those who chose not to perform), and an intimate interview conducted by iconic Canadian DJs and VJs. These Much Music-style interviews encouraged storytelling and moments of connection between the bands and the audience, replacing the traditional podium speeches with a more engaging and dynamic format.
Behind the scenes, the event was a logistical marvel. With only four months to prepare, the production team faced numerous challenges, from budget constraints to managing music industry politics. The inductees, many of whom were aged 60 or older, required special accommodations, such as wheelchair access and assistance with walking on stage. Despite these obstacles, the team successfully orchestrated the movement of 400 VIPs, media, and industry professionals through Massey Hall, a historic venue with limited backstage space.

Photography Credit: Gerard Richardson

Photography Credit: Gerard Richardson
One of the most heartwarming aspects of the evening was the reconciliation of band members who had not spoken to each other in over 20 years due to legal disputes. In some cases, band members threatened not to attend if certain others were present. However, through careful negotiation, the production team managed to bring these musicians together, resulting in powerful, emotional moments on stage. One band even performed together for the first time in 15 years, while another featured an apology between a band leader and his former manager.
The event garnered significant media attention, with over 3,130 media hits and more than a billion impressions across various platforms. The 2,600 audience members were fully engaged from start to finish, singing along with the hits of their youth, giving standing ovations, and celebrating the pride of Canadian rock music. The induction ceremony not only honoured these legendary bands but also solidified their place in Canadian history, as they joined the ranks of the country’s greatest artists, athletes, and innovators on Canada’s Walk of Fame.

Photography Credit: Gerard Richardson
Canada’s Rock of Fame was a unique celebration of the past, but it also looked toward the future. By tapping into emotional intelligence and creating moments of connection, the event left a lasting impact on everyone in the room. It was a powerful reminder of the enduring influence of Canadian rock music, not just on a national scale but globally.
With its thoughtful stage design, innovative program structure, and emotional storytelling, Canada’s Walk of Fame Presents Canada’s Rock of Fame will undoubtedly go down as a defining moment in the history of Canadian music. The event was a tribute to the bands that shaped the industry and a celebration of the music that continues to inspire new generations of fans.