1929–2004
Mount Pleasant Cemetery
Section 22 Niche 4423
Walter “Walt” Grealis is remembered as the driving force behind Canada’s music identity. Born in Toronto, Grealis began his career in law enforcement, serving with the RCMP and Toronto Police before following his passion for music. In 1964, he co-founded RPM Magazine, a weekly publication that became the heartbeat of Canada’s music industry for nearly four decades.
Grealis championed Canadian artists at a time when domestic music was overshadowed by U.S. hits. With partner Stan Klees, he launched the Gold Leaf Awards, later renamed the Juno Awards, to celebrate Canadian talent. His relentless lobbying and advocacy helped introduce Canadian content regulations, and he even coined the term “CanCon”, now synonymous with national pride in broadcasting.
Honoured as an Officer of the Order of Canada in 1993 and inducted into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame in 1999, Grealis left a legacy that resonates in every note of Canadian music. Today, the Walt Grealis Special Achievement Award at the Junos ensures his vision lives on – a Canada where its artists are given the support to shine at home and abroad.
Sources:
• Wikipedia – “Walt Grealis”
• History of Canadian Broadcasting – “Walt Grealis”
• CBC News – “Canadian Music Pioneer Dies”
• Find a Grave – “Walter Grealis”
Photos: findagrave.com
