The Canadian country music community is mourning the loss of one of its pioneers. Joseph “Dick” Damron, a 1994 Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, passed away on March 29, 2025, at the age of 91 in Alberta.
With a career spanning six decades, Damron left a lasting impact on the genre — both in Canada and beyond.
A Trailblazer in Canadian Country Music
Damron’s musical journey began in the 1950s, performing with early rock and country bands like The Nightriders. He launched his solo career in 1959 with the single “Gonna Have a Party” and quickly became a staple in Canadian country music.
Throughout his career, he released a long list of fan favourites, including:
- Countryfied
- The Long Green Line
- On The Road
- Susan Flowers
- Rise ‘n’ Shine
- Hitch Hikin’
Between 1970 and 1991, he landed 38 singles on the RPM Country Hit charts — 14 of which reached the Top 10. Several went all the way to number one, including Countryfied, Rise and Shine, On The Road, and Susan Flowers.
An Award-Winning Songwriter and Performer
Damron wasn’t just known for his performances — he was also a prolific songwriter. His work was recorded by some of the biggest names in country music, including:
- Charley Pride
- Wilf Carter
- George Hamilton IV
- Carroll Baker
- Gary Buck
In the 1970s and 80s, during his peak years with RCA Canada, Damron was honoured by the Canadian Country Music Association with awards for:
- Entertainer of the Year
- Male Vocalist of the Year
- Songwriter of the Year
- Instrumentalist of the Year
He was known for his “outlaw” image, his soulful lyrics, and a distinctive sound that blended traditional country with gospel and rock influences.
A Legacy That Lives On
Outside of music, Damron lived a full and rugged life — once a rodeo rider and oil-well labourer before taking the stage. His life story was chronicled in his 1997 autobiography The Legend & The Legacy, and he later published two novels.
In 2011 and 2012, Germany’s Bear Family Records released two 3-CD box sets celebrating his work — a nod to the international appreciation of his music.
His family shared in an obituary:
“It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Canadian country music legend Dick Damron, who left this world with the same quiet grace and spirit that defined his life and career.”
Thank You, Dick Damron
Dick Damron’s influence continues to be felt across the Canadian country scene. His songs, stories, and legacy will live on in the hearts of fans and musicians alike.
We send our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who were touched by his music.
Listen To Dick Damron’s Music
Logan Miller
As the founder of Front Porch Music, I believe that music has the ability to connect people. I love country music, and I love the country music industry as a whole. My goal is to help music fans find new artists to fall in love with.
