Canada has officially declared November 7th to be National Music Creator Day at the behest of SOCAN, Canada’s leading music rights organization.
SOCAN advocated for the federal government to declare November 7th as Music Creator Day as a way to celebrate Canadian music and the talented songwriters, composers and music publishers who make it possible.
The process to have this new national day declared began with an acknowledgement in the senate on November 4th in the Senate, then the day was acknowledged in the House of Commons on November 6th, where it was decided that from now on, November 7th will be recognized annually as Music Creator Day.
Choosing November 7th as the day of celebration was no accident, as the inaugural national day coincides both with SOCAN’s 100th anniversary, as well as the 82nd birthday of Joni Mitchell, one of Canada’s most celebrated singer-songwriters who still retains a home in BC.
“Thank you for honouring my work in this manner,” said Joni Mitchell.
“Although I have lived mostly in the States since I was 21, I live part-time in BC. I have always been proud to be a Canadian and lately more than ever.”
Senator René Cormier, who first acknowledged the national day in the senate, says that this day is important, because supporting Canadian artists means supporting Canadian culture and heritage.
“By celebrating our creators, we affirm who we are: a country that believes in the power of art and artists,” said Cormier.
A recent survey SOCAN had commissioned revealed that 81% of Canadians believe that supporting local music creators is vital to ensuring our culture thrives for future generations.
Additionally, the survey found that 81% believe that local music is a cornerstone of Canadian identity and 78% agree that local music being played around the world helps strengthen Canada’s cultural image internationally.
Announced alongside this new and exciting national day, the SOCAN Foundation has revealed that beginning in 2026, they will be issuing three grants annually of up to $10,000 each, to support organizations with programs that empower Canadian music creators.
“These findings reaffirm what we’ve always known, that music is part of who we are as Canadians. It shapes our identity, strengthens our voice in the world, and connects us to one another,” said Jennifer Brown, SOCAN CEO.
“We must meet this moment by investing in the people who make our music possible, so Canadian creativity continues to lead at home and on the world stage.”
Though this day is to be recognized for all of Canada, it will not be a statutory holiday, but rather a day to listen to Canadian music, think about the trailblazers of Canadian sounds and to purchase music from local musicians when possible.
