The Best Canadian Rock Bands

Coley Reed
Updated April 15, 2024 577.4K views 144 items
Ranked By
353.6K votes
29.1K voters
Voting Rules
Only bands or rock musicians who are from Canada

 

Over the years, Canada has produced some of the finest rock bands in the world. Though the Canadian rock scene doesn't get as much acclaim as that in the U.S. and UK, Canadian rock bands are some of the most popular in the world. There's a nice mix of famous Canadian bands across all rock genres and many of these groups have had international hits and have toured across the globe. What separates Canadian rock from others is how it has shaped various subgenres of rock that includes progressive rock, pop punk, heavy metal and indie rock. Simply stated, Canadians know how to rock. From classic rock to the 90s and now, this list has them all!  

So, what are the best Canadian rock bands? Anyone who is familiar with Canadian rock knows that there's a treasure trove of talent in the Great White North. That's why you'll see the names of international superstars like Rush, Neil Young, Arcade Fire, Broken Social Scene and Nickelback on here in addition to top Canadian bands like Three Days Grace, Matthew Good Band, Our Lady Peace and Billy Talent. There are a few things you can argue about Canadian rock, but the thing that's indisputable is how influential Canadian rock bands are on the rest of the world.

That said, it's up to you to determine what is the best Canadian rock band. This list answers the questions "who are the best Canadian rock bands of all time?" and "who is the greatest Canadian rock musician ever?" If you know enough about the genre, please vote based on the quality of the band's music instead of just voting for the most popular Canadian rock bands that you might've heard of. 

 

Most divisive: Nickelback
Over 29.1K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Canadian Rock Bands
  • Rush
    1

    Rush

    10,846 votes

    As one of the best Canadian rock bands of all time, this trio has garnered international acclaim for their skilled musicianship, particularly the virtuosic skills of their drummer and lyricist. Known for their progressive rock sound, complex compositions, and thought-provoking lyrics, they've been making waves in the music world since their formation in 1968. With an impressive discography spanning over 40 years, including multiple gold and platinum certifications, they have earned their place in both the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

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  • The Guess Who
    2

    The Guess Who

    6,807 votes

    Emerging in the late 1960s, this legendary rock group helped put Canadian rock on the map with their infectious blend of blues, jazz, and pop influences. As pioneers of the Canadian music scene, they scored numerous international hit singles and went on to sell millions of records worldwide. Their catchy tunes and innovative songwriting have left a lasting legacy in the world of rock music, influencing countless artists who followed in their footsteps.

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  • The Tragically Hip
    3

    Formed in 1984, this iconic rock band quickly become beloved for their introspective lyrics, distinctively Canadian themes, and powerful live performances. Their frontman's magnetic stage presence and emotionally charged lyrics endeared them to legions of devoted fans and cemented their status as a quintessential Canadian rock band. Over their three-decade career, they released several chart-topping albums and won numerous awards, including 16 Juno Awards, as well as being inducted into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame.

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  • Leonard Cohen
    4

    Leonard Cohen

    2,927 votes

    Often characterized by his deep, gravelly voice and poetic lyrics, this iconic singer-songwriter has left an indelible mark on the world of music. His career spanned six decades, during which he released 14 studio albums, many of which have achieved iconic status and influenced generations of musicians. He may have started as a poet and novelist, but his profound songwriting, coupled with his striking baritone voice, has secured his legacy as one of the greatest Canadian rock artists of all time.

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  • Gordon Lightfoot
    5

    Gordon Lightfoot

    5,047 votes

    Widely regarded as one of Canada's greatest songwriters, this legendary musician has been captivating audiences with his smooth voice and evocative lyrics for over six decades. His unique blend of folk, rock, and country music has earned him a devoted fanbase and critical acclaim, with numerous awards and accolades to his name. As a testament to his enduring popularity, he has released more than 20 albums throughout his career, many of which have achieved gold or platinum status.

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  • April Wine
    6

    April Wine

    5,727 votes

    Formed in 1969, this long-running rock band is known for their powerful live performances and an extensive catalog of hits that often tackled social issues. With a string of gold and platinum albums, as well as multiple Juno Awards under their belts, they've truly earned their place among the greats of Canadian rock. Despite numerous lineup changes over the years, they continue to tour and delight fans around the world with their classic rock sound.

  • Neil Young
    7

    Neil Young

    7,705 votes

    Throughout a career spanning six decades, this legendary singer-songwriter and guitarist has consistently pushed boundaries in both his music and activism. Known for his distinctive voice, environmental advocacy, and prolific output, he has released over 40 albums that encompass various genres, including folk, country, and hard rock. As a member of both Buffalo Springfield and Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, as well as a successful solo artist, he has left an indelible mark on the music world and garnered numerous awards and honors.

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  • Triumph
    8

    Triumph

    5,934 votes

    As one of Canada's premier power trios, this hard rock and progressive rock band has racked up countless accolades since their formation in 1975. Known for their intricate musicianship, engaging live shows complete with impressive pyrotechnics, and anthemic songwriting, they have carved out a successful career with numerous multi-platinum albums. Despite several hiatuses and lineup changes, their impact on the Canadian rock landscape remains undeniable.

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  • Bachman–Turner Overdrive
    9

    This hard-rocking foursome, formed by former Guess Who members, took the world by storm in the 1970s with their catchy riffs and infectious anthems. Beloved for their energetic live shows and memorable hooks, they've sold millions of records worldwide and earned a dedicated international fanbase. Their influence on the Canadian rock scene is undeniable, and their timeless songs continue to resonate with listeners today.

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  • The Band
    10

    The Band

    6,104 votes

    Initially backing up rock legend Ronnie Hawkins before teaming with Bob Dylan, this talented group of musicians went on to release an impressive body of work that blended folk, rock, and country music. With their timeless sound, deeply affecting lyrics, and virtuosic musicianship, they've left an indelible mark on the landscape of Canadian rock. Their storied career has earned them numerous awards, including induction into both the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

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  • Bryan Adams
    11

    Bryan Adams

    6,225 votes

    With a career spanning four decades, this iconic singer-songwriter has achieved worldwide fame for his instantly recognizable voice and heartfelt, anthemic tunes. His numerous chart-topping hits and bestselling albums have earned him a slew of awards, including 20 Juno Awards and a Grammy. As one of the best-selling music artists of all time, he has sold over 75 million records worldwide and continues to captivate audiences with his timeless sound.

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  • Burton Cummings
    12

    Burton Cummings

    1,737 votes

    With his soulful voice and exceptional piano skills, this celebrated musician first gained fame as the lead vocalist and keyboardist for the Guess Who. After leaving the band in 1975, he embarked on a successful solo career, releasing multiple platinum albums and scoring several hit singles. His distinctive sound and impressive body of work have established him as one of the most respected Canadian rock artists of all time.

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  • Steppenwolf
    13

    Steppenwolf

    4,915 votes

    This influential rock band, formed in the late 1960s by Canadian vocalist and songwriter John Kay, is best known for their hard-hitting tunes and pioneering heavy metal sound. With numerous classic songs that became counterculture anthems, they helped define a generation and left a lasting legacy on the music world. Their impressive discography includes several gold-certified albums, and they've sold over 25 million records worldwide.

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  • The Jeff Healey Band
    14

    Fronted by the late, great Jeff Healey, who was known for his astounding guitar skills despite being blind, this phenomenal rock band first gained notice in the late 1980s. Their unique mix of blues, jazz, and rock, along with Healey's distinctive guitar playing, earned them an enthusiastic following and critical acclaim. With multiple hit singles and gold and platinum-certified albums, they're a shining example of Canadian rock at its finest.

  • Joni Mitchell
    15

    Joni Mitchell

    4,395 votes

    Widely regarded as one of the most influential singer-songwriters of all time, this iconic artist has captivated listeners with her thoughtful lyrics and innovative guitar tunings since her debut in the late 1960s. Her genre-defying blend of folk, rock, and jazz has earned her legions of devoted fans and critical acclaim, as well as multiple Grammy Awards. As a testament to her enduring impact, she was inducted into both the Canadian Music Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

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  • Loverboy
    16

    Loverboy

    4,676 votes

    Known for their catchy synth-driven rock tunes and energetic live shows, this legendary band first made a splash on the music scene in the early 1980s. With a string of chart-topping hits and multi-platinum albums to their name, they've become a mainstay in the world of Canadian rock. As a testament to their enduring appeal, they continue to tour and release new music, delighting fans old and new.

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  • Barenaked Ladies
    17

    Barenaked Ladies

    5,352 votes

    This quirky, beloved rock band has delighted fans with their catchy tunes and humorous lyrics since first breaking onto the scene in the late 1980s. Known for their dynamic live shows and sharp songwriting, they have achieved significant commercial success with numerous multi-platinum album certifications and chart-topping singles. Though their lineup may have changed over the years, their enduring popularity and unique sound remain a constant in the Canadian rock music scene.

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  • The Tea Party
    18

    The Tea Party

    5,712 votes

    Combining rock, blues, and world music influences, this talented trio has carved out a niche for themselves in the Canadian music landscape. Their dark, atmospheric sound and powerful live performances have captured the imaginations of fans since their formation in the early 1990s. With several chart-topping albums, numerous awards, and a reputation for compelling musicianship, they continue to push boundaries and captivate audiences.

  • Tom Cochrane
    19

    Tom Cochrane

    3,378 votes

    Initially gaining fame as the frontman for Red Rider, this accomplished singer-songwriter has made a lasting impact on the Canadian music scene with his emotive voice and heartfelt lyrics. His success only grew as he embarked on a solo career in the early 1990s, releasing multiple chart-topping albums and earning numerous accolades, including several Juno Awards. Known for his philanthropic efforts as well as his musical prowess, he continues to be a beloved figure in the world of Canadian rock.

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  • Blue Rodeo
    20

    Blue Rodeo

    4,202 votes

    This celebrated alt-country rock band has been enthralling fans with their evocative songs, heartfelt lyrics, and brilliant musicianship since their formation in the mid-1980s. With numerous Juno Awards and gold and platinum album certifications, they have solidified their status as a beloved fixture in the Canadian music scene. Despite lineup changes over the years, their distinctive sound and timeless appeal remain undiminished.

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  • Alanis Morissette
    21

    This groundbreaking singer-songwriter burst onto the international scene in the mid-1990s, capturing the zeitgeist with her raw, confessional lyrics and powerful voice. Her unique blend of rock, pop, and electronica quickly garnered critical acclaim, numerous music awards, and an army of devoted fans. As one of the best-selling artists of all time, she has sold over 60 million records worldwide, and her influence on generations of female singer-songwriters is undeniable.

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  • Our Lady Peace
    22

    Our Lady Peace

    4,456 votes

    Since their breakthrough in the mid-1990s, this alternative rock band has built a loyal fan base with their introspective lyrics, innovative songwriting, and dynamic live performances. With multiple chart-topping albums and numerous awards, including several Juno Awards, they continue to be a force in the Canadian rock scene. Their distinct sound and tireless dedication to their craft have earned them a well-deserved spot among Canada's best rock bands.

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  • Kim Mitchell
    23

    Kim Mitchell

    3,095 votes

    As the former lead singer and guitarist for Max Webster, this iconic musician made a name for himself with his intricate guitar work and distinctive voice. Upon launching his solo career in the early 1980s, he continued to earn critical acclaim and commercial success with his catchy rock tunes and engaging live performances. His long career has earned him multiple Juno Awards, gold and platinum album certifications, and a dedicated fanbase.

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  • Trooper
    24

    Trooper

    3,311 votes

    Since their formation in the early 1970s, this legendary rock band has captivated audiences with their energetic performances, infectious hooks, and memorable tunes. With multiple gold and platinum albums to their name, they have become a mainstay on the Canadian music scene. Their enduring appeal and commitment to their craft testify to their status as one of the greatest Canadian rock bands of all time.

  • Red Rider
    25

    Red Rider

    2,601 votes

    Fronted by the immensely talented Tom Cochrane, this influential Canadian rock band left a lasting impression on the music landscape in the late 1970s and 1980s. Known for their socially conscious lyrics, catchy hooks, and brilliant musicianship, they enjoyed commercial success with numerous charting singles and albums. Though Cochrane's solo career eventually eclipsed the band's fame, their collective contributions to the Canadian rock scene remain significant.

  • Big Wreck
    26

    Big Wreck

    3,308 votes

    Emerging from the mid-90s alternative rock boom, this talented quartet garnered critical acclaim for their introspective lyrics, dynamic musicianship, and innovative songwriting. Despite some lineup changes and a hiatus, they have maintained a loyal fanbase and continue to release well-received albums. Their unique blend of heavy rock, blues, and progressive elements has secured their place among Canada's best rock bands.

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  • Chilliwack
    27

    Chilliwack

    3,011 votes

    As a staple of the Canadian rock scene throughout the 1970s and 1980s, this talented band captivated audiences with their catchy melodies and accomplished musicianship. With numerous chart-topping hits and gold and platinum album certifications, they have earned their place in the annals of Canadian rock history. Their timeless sound and memorable tunes continue to resonate with listeners today.

  • Honeymoon Suite
    28

    Honeymoon Suite

    3,038 votes

    This melodic rock band skyrocketed to fame in the 1980s, capturing the hearts of fans with their catchy tunes, heartfelt lyrics, and unforgettable hooks. With multiple gold and platinum album certifications, as well as numerous awards and accolades, they earned their place among Canada's best rock acts. Despite several lineup changes, they continue to tour and release new music, staying true to their unique sound and timeless appeal.

  • Sarah McLachlan
    29

    Sarah McLachlan

    3,455 votes

    As an immensely talented singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, this iconic musician has made a lasting impact on the world of Canadian rock. Her emotive voice and deeply personal lyrics have struck a chord with audiences since her debut in the late 1980s. Not only has she earned multiple Grammy Awards and sold millions of records worldwide, but she has also been a tireless advocate for female musicians, founding the groundbreaking Lilith Fair festival in the late 1990s.

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  • Three Days Grace
    30

    Three Days Grace

    3,809 votes

    Since forming in the late 1990s, this hard-hitting rock band has garnered a devoted fanbase with their powerful performances, infectious hooks, and thought-provoking lyrics. With multiple chart-topping albums, as well as several platinum certifications and awards under their belts, they have solidified their status as one of the best Canadian rock bands of the 21st century. Despite lineup changes, including the departure of their original lead singer, they continue to tour and release new music, proving their enduring appeal.

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