The Pied Piper and The Craddock Kids (re-issue)

Oct 18, 2024: Here is a fresh look back at this album with a new audio transfer from a freshly opened copy.

Bobby Gimby, born in 1919 in Saskatchewan, Canada, is best known for his iconic 1967 recording of "Canada: A Centennial Song." Nicknamed the "Pied Piper of Canada," he made notable contributions to radio with his work on Happy Gang and on CBC-TV with Juliette. Additionally, he composed "Malaysia Forever," which is the national anthem of Malaysia.

Growing up in Saskatchewan, Gimby developed a love for jazz and taught himself to play the trumpet. To appear older and join a big band as a teenager, he even grew a mustache. Throughout his career, he achieved many milestones, including leading his own orchestra and hosting radio and TV shows. However, his proudest accomplishment was writing "Ca-Na-Da," the anthem for Canada's centennial celebration. At a time when the nation was divided, he believed in the unifying power of music, and his vision resonated widely. This album, featuring the centennial anthem, became the highest-selling Canadian album of all time, solidifying his legacy.

Although uncredited, the vocals on this album were performed by The Craddock Kids, who had their own 1967 Centennial album with Ben McPeek and his Orchestra. Bonnie Craddock recalls, "My mom and dad took us to Ed Sullivan in 1966. We met him and sang a roster of songs, which led to a live show with him. In 1967, Bobby Gimby wrote 'C-A-N-A-D-A,' and we were chosen to sing it. For a long time, it was believed that many kids sang it, but the truth is, it was us - overdubbed. We even recorded the French version along with another French Canadian girl. This led to numerous Exhibition shows where we performed six days a week, several times a day." The gatefold jacket of the album includes 15 historic photos, providing a glimpse into Gimby’s remarkable journey.

Musical arrangements by Bobby Gimby and Ben McPeek
The Craddock Kids (The Children) arranged and conducted by Bobby Gimby
Engineered by George Semkiw, Dave Green, and Phil Sheridan
Production assistance: Jack Richardson
Directed by Miss Lynn Gimby

Cover picture courtesy of Gordon V. Thompson Limited