Triumph to Be Honored as Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame Legends in 2025
via BrunoSamppa / YouTube
Canadian rock icons Triumph are set to be inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame in 2025, joining an esteemed lineup of celebrated artists. The band will be honored alongside François Cousineau, Andy Kim, Kate & Anna McGarrigle, Michel Pagliaro, Jane Siberry, Ian Thomas, Gino Vannelli, and Florent Vollant. Together, these inductees reflect the depth and diversity of Canada’s musical landscape.
The Hall of Fame’s Legends series celebrates songwriters whose work has shaped generations of Canadian culture. From chart-topping hits to folk traditions and groundbreaking Indigenous voices, this year’s inductees highlight the creative spirit that continues to define Canada’s music scene. Triumph’s induction cements their place among the nation’s most influential artists.
Nick Fedor, executive director of the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, emphasized that the Legends series is more than an awards show. It serves as a national stage to honor legacies, inspire future songwriters, and underscore the power of storytelling through music. For Triumph, the recognition underscores decades of artistic courage and cultural contribution.
Triumph’s Journey and Enduring Legacy
Formed in Toronto in 1975 by Rik Emmett, Gil Moore, and Mike Levine, Triumph quickly rose to prominence with their powerful blend of hard rock and soaring melodies. Known for arena rock staples like “Lay It On the Line,” “Magic Power,” and “Fight the Good Fight,” the band sold more than 15 million albums worldwide and earned multiple gold and platinum certifications.
Their live shows became legendary in the 1980s, featuring groundbreaking lighting, lasers, and pyrotechnics that set new standards for rock performances. Triumph’s blend of virtuosic guitar work, vocal harmonies, and high-energy concerts secured them a global fan base and established their reputation as one of Canada’s most iconic rock power trios.
Over the years, Triumph’s contributions have been recognized with numerous honors, including induction into the Canadian Music Industry Hall of Fame in 2007, the Canadian Music Hall of Fame in 2008, and Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2019. Their upcoming induction into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame adds another milestone to their enduring legacy.
View this post on Instagram
Reunions, Reconciliation, and Renewed Spotlight
Though the band faced internal conflicts and lineup changes, Triumph has managed to reconnect over time. Rik Emmett’s departure in 1988 marked a period of estrangement, but the band eventually reunited for performances at the Sweden Rock Festival and Rocklahoma in 2008. These events marked the beginning of repaired relationships among the trio.
Their last public performance before recent years took place in 2019 at an exclusive event for superfans in Mississauga, Ontario. In 2021, their story was further immortalized through the documentary Triumph: Rock & Roll Machine, produced by Banger Films. The film showcased not only their music but also their journey of reconciliation and resilience.
Most recently, Triumph reunited in June 2024 for a three-song set at the Rogers Festival in Edmonton. Joined by guest musicians Phil X, Brent Fitz, and Todd Kerns, Emmett and Moore once again brought their signature sound to the stage, delighting fans and reaffirming the band’s lasting impact on Canadian rock.
The Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame and Future Generations
The Legends induction events celebrating Triumph and other honorees will take place at the Meridian Arts Centre in Toronto on October 17, 2025, and at Espace St-Denis in Montreal on November 17, 2025. These evenings will feature live tributes, special performances, and recognition of the Breakthrough Songwriter Award, highlighting Canada’s emerging talent.
The Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, housed at Studio Bell in Calgary, is dedicated to preserving and promoting the contributions of Canada’s greatest songwriters. Through exhibitions, artifacts, and memorabilia, the Hall provides a permanent home for the stories behind Canada’s most celebrated music.
Beyond honoring established legends, the Hall of Fame actively supports the next generation through masterclasses, workshops, and initiatives like Song & Score Day. By bridging the gap between iconic artists and young creators, the organization ensures that Canada’s songwriting legacy continues to evolve and thrive.
