This prairie city has made a significant impact on the global stage. Many of rock, country, and folk’s biggest hits trace their roots back to the heart of Manitoba. Today I want to share five iconic songs, each from a different Winnipeg-born artist or band, that showcase the city’s incredible musical legacy. From classic rock anthems to folk ballads, these tracks have left an indelible mark on the music world and are a testament to Winnipeg’s rich creative spirit.
1. “American Woman” by The Guess Who
“American Woman” is not just a song—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Written and performed by Winnipeg’s very own The Guess Who, the track was born out of a spontaneous jam session during a concert in Ontario. However, the band’s roots are firmly planted in Winnipeg, where members Burton Cummings, Randy Bachman, Garry Peterson, and Jim Kale came together. Released in 1970, “American Woman” quickly climbed the charts, becoming the first song by a Canadian band to hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. Its gritty guitar riff and powerful lyrics struck a chord with audiences during the Vietnam War era, giving it a timeless quality. The Guess Who’s success put Winnipeg on the musical map and paved the way for countless Canadian artists who followed.
2. “Takin’ Care of Business” by Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO)
Winnipeg’s Randy Bachman wasn’t finished after his time with The Guess Who. He went on to form another iconic rock band: Bachman-Turner Overdrive (BTO). One of their biggest hits, “Takin’ Care of Business,” has become a classic rock staple and a true working-class anthem. Released in 1973, the song features Bachman’s catchy guitar riff and was famously written on the fly during a live performance. Its infectious chorus and upbeat message of perseverance resonated with audiences, and it remains a popular choice at sports events and in movies. The song’s success helped solidify BTO’s status as one of Canada’s top rock exports, and it all started with a Winnipeg boy and his guitar.
3. “Life Is a Highway” by Tom Cochrane
While Tom Cochrane is often associated with Ontario, his formative years spent in Manitoba greatly influenced his music. “Life Is a Highway,” released in 1991, became an instant road-trip anthem. The song, inspired by Cochrane’s eye-opening trip to Africa, features an infectious melody and lyrics about the journey of life, capturing the spirit of adventure and resilience. It topped charts in Canada and became a global hit, further popularized when it was covered by Rascal Flatts for the Cars movie soundtrack. Cochrane’s connection to Winnipeg helped shape his musical style, making “Life Is a Highway” a song that Winnipeggers proudly claim as their own.
4. “Heart of Gold” by Neil Young
Neil Young, one of Winnipeg’s most famous musical exports, found his voice here in the 1960s, playing with local bands like The Squires. His song “Heart of Gold,” from the 1972 album Harvest, became his first and only No. 1 hit in the United States. The song’s soulful lyrics and haunting harmonica made it an instant classic, showcasing Young’s unique blend of folk and rock. Although Young went on to achieve international fame, he has often credited his time in Winnipeg for shaping his musical identity. “Heart of Gold” remains one of his most beloved tracks, a testament to the influence of his early years in Manitoba.
5. “Big Yellow Taxi” by Joni Mitchell
Although she was born in Alberta, Joni Mitchell spent much of her early career in Winnipeg’s vibrant folk scene, where she honed her craft and developed her distinctive sound. “Big Yellow Taxi,” released in 1970, is one of her most famous songs and features her signature blend of folk, pop, and environmental commentary. The song’s catchy chorus, “They paved paradise and put up a parking lot,” is instantly recognizable and has become a timeless anthem for environmental activism. Mitchell’s time in Winnipeg was crucial to her development as an artist, and the city takes pride in its connection to this iconic singer-songwriter.
I could go on and on. The fact is that Winnipeg’s contributions to the music world are undeniable. From rock anthems and folk ballads to timeless classics, this city has been the starting point for songs that have touched hearts and inspired generations. The talent that emerged from Winnipeg in the 1960s and 1970s helped define an era of music, and its legacy continues to influence artists today.
So next time you find yourself singing along to a classic hit, remember that some of the world’s most iconic songs were crafted right here, in the heart of Manitoba. I would like to see our city and province do more to recognize the great Manitoba talent, a museum of music and a walk of musical fame at Portage and Main because Winnipeg’s music is a source of pride for the city and a gift to the world.
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