I heard this song described as the best Irish-sounding song by a Canadian band about a trip to England ever. Rest well, John. You’re home for your rest.
This is Canada at its core. This band that never really had any radio hits - didn't make millions, it's still an institution in Canada. The love of their music and their lead singer and bring all of these superstars together to perform this tribute. And they play and sing it all together - megastars and not alike. That's what Canada is.
I was recently in Uruguay for a pipe band gathering. We ended up in an Irish pub dancing with a bunch of the south American band members. They told us to put a Canadian song on. We chose this song and showed them how we sing and dance back home. They loved it and we had a blast! RIP John, your music lives on and continues to make us all dance, smile and sing along, no matter where we are in the world
Been living in Aguas Dulces Uruguay for 10 years, Toronto born and raised. Great people here and kudos to you for playing this song for them. Pretty sure my neighbors know it well.
I saw Spirit of the West at the Commodore Ballroom. I was there to see somebody else and I was blown away by SOTW. Unfortunately I never had the chance to see them again, but I followed them until John's passing. It was a shame he developed early onset dementia shortly after he recovered from other health problems. RIP John.
That was a pretty special day. Just a host of who's who in Canadian music from West and East there that day. I'm the far left hand corner of the stage myself, near my chum Pat Steward of the Odds. I had played in band that Hugh from Spirit of the West produced called The Town Pants, and we had opened for SOTW on many occasions over the years... But I was more formally on that day as the promoter rep for Live Nation, and helping Byron the TD at the Commodore catch fly balls where needed as he was very busy... But it was a very smooth day and a lot of fun. John was quite present and great on stage. The disease that finally took him a couple of years later would rob him of so much of that energy of course, but music did a lot to awake something in him, that even if you couldn't always communicate so well with him, you knew he was there. You did a great job Alan spearheading the whole project, and good on you for doing so. The tiled room that you see with the black diamonds on the walls that people recorded their vocal parts in, is actually the upstairs gents bathroom at the Commodore! I can recall taping a little sign on the door "Studio A - Recording In Progress", that I can't remember if I took a photo of. I was worried somebody was going to walk in to use the toilet and accidentally interrupt somebody's take! I guess it was the last time John might have been in that room if I remember right. I watched him leave with his family and he turned and waved to everybody left, band and crew and friends... It was a resonant moment for us at the Commodore--we all realized that we were seeing him leave the ballroom for the last time. I'll likely update a book I wrote about the history of the Commodore ("Live at the Commodore" that came out in 2015) with this unforgettable evening. It was one of those benchmark nights there that the venue has had so many of.
I'm currently a Candian University student, I just started listening to Spirit of the West because of an experience I had a few months ago. There is a coffee shop in my town, and upstairs they have a tiny room with a stage at the front, where they do open mics. My girlfriend plays there occasionally, and I went to watch her. Anyways, this guy comes on stage, and absolutely shreds this song. Here we were, a bunch of kids, bouncing off the walls of this tiny, cramped room in a frenzy. I was actually afraid that we would collapse the floor and fall onto the patrons of the coffee shop. I will never forget that experince, and it pains me to realize the era I have missed.
I was a student at UBC in the early 90s. This song really represents that era for me, and ya, it was crazy. The place went nuts when they played this. SOTW actually played the pit once.
I'm just starting my first year at BCIT and I just found this song. I cant stop listening to it, I love this kind of music but you hear it coming out less and less which is a little sad. I'm only 18 and I hope that I still have the chance to attend a party where they play this instead of the modern rap that we all hear.
@@robertmacnaughton4190 That, sir, is one of the kindest responses I have read in a while. Joshua, you may have missed seeing SOTW, live but you have their music to enjoy. Just know that you'll find and create your own joy to add to that. The experiences of good music never truly die, they just get experienced and passed on. I'm glad you're listening to this incredible band. Now you'll know why so many people smile as much as they do when their music comes on. They were ahead of their time, and their music continues to stand to that test.
truly beautiful tribute. One of the most ironic pub songs of all time. Thank you John for all the joy you brought to our weary world. You are truly home for a rest.
This was my wedding first dance song with my life buddy/partner/husband back in July 2000. My great aunt and grandmother thought it was great that the 'kids' were dancing to a good old reel. Still a good time 24 years later, almost 25.❤ Yes, I did see the band play live at a festival a few years ago back in Toronto and told them and said thank you😂
This song is an anthem for canadians... I traveled when I was younger and when home was missed we'd listen to this... you'd find all the other canadians in and around as this played. You'll be missed John.
Thanks for your consistent love and support towards me on my page, I really appreciate and can’t thank you enough. Write me with the address above so we can have more positive conversations about music and life in general 🥂💙
I just love how all of them care so much about him to get together and do this to raise money I love this and it makes me want to cry tears of joy Edit: and wow 10 dislikes
If you don't know what the band did for him to keep him performing for as long as possible, you should look into the story. It's as heart-warming as you'd think it would be.
I've been living abroad for the last three years, and didn't know John Mann had died until an hour ago. I'm going to see if I can find him an episode of DaVinci's Inquest or Cold Squad. I'm glad to see him having so much fun at this concert, as he always did.
I saw Spirit of the West a few years ago and was so saddened to see John reading all the lyrics from an iPad. Despite that they still put on an incredible show. This was awesome. What a great tribute to John Mann.
At least he hasn't lost any dancing skills but yes he can't remember songs anymore, not even his top song. Sad he was an amazing singer, saw them twice in concert when they opened for GBS.
Just found this. 5 years later, it still hasn't lost a thing. Truly moved. Thank-you Allan, and all the Canadian musicians. For several years I have felt that Canada is not lines that politicians drew in the sands many years ago. It's the people (like this) that truly represent what Canada is. Cheers!
this song got me through me early university days, the country mouse did not easily convert to city life, and this song helped me through those long lonely days!
I first saw Spirit of the West at the CNE Grandstand in the summer of 1990. They were opening for Melissa Etheridge and it was pouring rain but it didn't matter once the band took the stage and started in on "Home For A Rest"... the whole audience was on their feet and dancing in the rain. I was at the concert with my brother and my best friend and, to this day, when I hear this song I am back at the Grandstand dancing my heart out. Ten years later my mother started showing the first signs of Alzheimer's, which had already taken my grandmother, and we began the painful journey that this terrible disease takes the entire family on. I think it wonderful that so many of Canada's music community came together to create what has instantly become a favourite version of a beloved song. I will be making a donation immediately after posting this.
I discovered SOTW in 1988 at the WOMAD festival in Toronto. True to WOMAD's mission, they were sharing the bill with a band from Senegal. I completely fell in love with their energy and take on folk music. I saw them multiple times in the 1990's (RIP Ontario Place Forum) and had a blast each and every time. Much love to John, SOTW, and all the fans out there.
This is an iconic Canadian song. The dance floor goes from sparse to full just 10 seconds into this song. It’s truly amazing and infectious!! I saw them at a very small venue with maybe a crowd of maybe 300 in the late 1990s. Very cool! It was 3 months ago that I wanted to listen to some music searching up GBS and then came across SOTW videos then this one. I had no idea John Mann was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2014. I was very surprised. Then I did a further search to see if I could donate money to him/his family and discovered he sadly died last fall. I will not forget him! Love ‘Home for a Rest’ and Venice is Sinking. The story behind Home For a Rest is very cool! RIP John Mann!
Such a loss with the death of John today, but his work has become part of the musical heart of Canada which will continue to beat for generations to come.
Thank you, John and Spirit of the West for a life-defining song. Thank to all your friends for this video. I have shared with all my friends as we are all so sad, touch and inspired by you. THANK YOU FOR BEING YOU AND A GREAT CANADIAN ICON
One of my favourite songs, I don;t understand how we have 8 people with thumbs down. My Mother died of Alzheimers. I know I'm making spelling mistakes right now but a great group of musicians came to suppprt a great cause and an artist they love. Any who I give it 9 thumbs up so that eraticates all of the negative people on this thread. Sorry I double stamped it an no stamp backs lol. Or maybe turn up your speakers and put away your video game and listen to live. Not going to say anything more as I'm being nice.
its like a part of Canada has gone missing...fallen away......but will always be there...remembered..woven into the rich tapestry of what we are...joined by others in a large web of talent from the past...who will always be there...in our hearts...in our minds, souls...and lives.....he did well, now, he is.... home, for, a, resttttttttt
I have only recently discovered Spirit of the West but learning about John and seeing recordings has made me feel so emotional. Thanks to John for his contribution. xx
First time I heard this tune I was driving home from the hospital in Sarnia on the secondary highways with no traffic. I didn't think a six banger could go that fast in such a heavy convertible. Spirit has been around a long time. They just keep getting better.
My music teacher showed us this video and me and my best friend started to cry when my music teacher was explaining all of what we were gonna watch and John Mann having bad memory but this is TRUE amazing music! :D
Alan, sorry for the loss of your west coast brother. If you need a vaycay...i'll meet you at Bowies, in Smiths Falls of course...sometime in April will do, thanx man. RIP MANN
Over the years i saw SOTW 13 times, had chats with most of the band, even shared a few drinks with them. its not fair to compare John to Gord, but SOTW should have got a true farewell special as well, it was true music straight to the heart. look at the talent assembled, Jim Cuddy's unmistakable voice to start, Alan doyle and his trademark count get the song rocking, Sarah showing her old friend true love with the Kiss. it breaks my heart i will never see them again, take my Kids to see this amazing group. Love you John
Thanks for this song Mr. Mann and Spirit of the West! A lot of good times were shared with this song being part of them! AWESOME tribute all - VERY well done!!!
Now THAT is the right way to honour someone!! As a fellow musician and huge SOTW fan there is no greater sound than this. And I sincerely hope that this not only raises awareness, but brings a tear to your eye like it did for me. You did us proud John, and my hat is off to all of the musicians, crew, and engineers that put this together!!
Remembering John MANN...WHO LEFT US WAY TOO SOON.......Spirit of The West...great band......saw them in my home city......Birmingham...late 80's...love this version.......'BAND AID.....WITH ATTITUDE!'
Best concert I ever attended. Best performance of this song by so many talented Canadian musicians. My wife wouldn't let me bid above $2000 for the guitar auction at the end. I would have paid a lot more to get on stage with these find people! RIP John Mann.
John I would just like to thank you for making my life better and more full . I wish I could have met you and just had a nice conversation about anything . You were and still are a big part of my life so , Thank you and too your family .
A band I never got to see play. Another band synonymous with Canadian music. This tribute both makes me want to get up and dance and since along because it is such a Canadian song, yet also saddens me because we lost an amazing entertainer and person. It was a testament to thw man thst all this amazing Canadian artist made this tribute.
Lydia Stevens If you've never been to an Alan Doyle concert you have never had a fun time! Alan gives a show that has you on your feet the entire time! Your smiling, laughing and all of your 'down in the dump' feelings no longer exist! He transcends you into a world of joy and happiness with his talent and music. His stories are filled with laughable witticisms. He makes me proud to be a Canadian! To know him is to love him, to read his books is an insight to his life and his music a look into his soul!
Thank you for your sincere compliment, love and support I really appreciate you for being a fan of mine and I would like to know you if you don’t mind.
this is so great....so many great artists got together to do something great ,,,,,,..you need to come back to the States ...western NY ...Niagara falls buffalo ...Lewiston...even the New York state fair ..... sending prayers for for you all.......keep up the great work......love you all.....
Rest well. So sad to hear this, and years after the fact. Spent decades in Canada, and Spirit of the West was one of my favorite bands. Loved the music and could never get enough of John's voice.
I covered Ordinary Day at karaoke last week and got a standing ovation. Everyone was stoked to hear it. I then shook the hands of about six fellow east coasters. (In Alberta miles from any ocean)
I've seen SOTW play more than any other band. (GBS a close 2nd) Always a great show. Never disappointed. I can spare a measly $25 Love ya John. Cheers. JH
I heard this song described as the best Irish-sounding song by a Canadian band about a trip to England ever.
Rest well, John. You’re home for your rest.
This is Canada at its core. This band that never really had any radio hits - didn't make millions, it's still an institution in Canada. The love of their music and their lead singer and bring all of these superstars together to perform this tribute. And they play and sing it all together - megastars and not alike. That's what Canada is.
No radio hits? Where were you in the 90's?
This song plays on the radio in BC and Nova Scotia constantly, never listened to other provinces radio so I dunno how it is there
Nailed it
I seen them live as a 9 yr old
❤
I was recently in Uruguay for a pipe band gathering. We ended up in an Irish pub dancing with a bunch of the south American band members. They told us to put a Canadian song on. We chose this song and showed them how we sing and dance back home. They loved it and we had a blast! RIP John, your music lives on and continues to make us all dance, smile and sing along, no matter where we are in the world
Uruguayans are wonderful!
Been living in Aguas Dulces Uruguay for 10 years, Toronto born and raised. Great people here and kudos to you for playing this song for them. Pretty sure my neighbors know it well.
No matter where I am, if this song is played I'm singing my lungs out and dancing. Miss you John ❤️
I saw Spirit of the West at the Commodore Ballroom. I was there to see somebody else and I was blown away by SOTW. Unfortunately I never had the chance to see them again, but I followed them until John's passing. It was a shame he developed early onset dementia shortly after he recovered from other health problems. RIP John.
That was a pretty special day. Just a host of who's who in Canadian music from West and East there that day. I'm the far left hand corner of the stage myself, near my chum Pat Steward of the Odds. I had played in band that Hugh from Spirit of the West produced called The Town Pants, and we had opened for SOTW on many occasions over the years... But I was more formally on that day as the promoter rep for Live Nation, and helping Byron the TD at the Commodore catch fly balls where needed as he was very busy... But it was a very smooth day and a lot of fun.
John was quite present and great on stage. The disease that finally took him a couple of years later would rob him of so much of that energy of course, but music did a lot to awake something in him, that even if you couldn't always communicate so well with him, you knew he was there.
You did a great job Alan spearheading the whole project, and good on you for doing so.
The tiled room that you see with the black diamonds on the walls that people recorded their vocal parts in, is actually the upstairs gents bathroom at the Commodore! I can recall taping a little sign on the door "Studio A - Recording In Progress", that I can't remember if I took a photo of. I was worried somebody was going to walk in to use the toilet and accidentally interrupt somebody's take!
I guess it was the last time John might have been in that room if I remember right. I watched him leave with his family and he turned and waved to everybody left, band and crew and friends... It was a resonant moment for us at the Commodore--we all realized that we were seeing him leave the ballroom for the last time.
I'll likely update a book I wrote about the history of the Commodore ("Live at the Commodore" that came out in 2015) with this unforgettable evening. It was one of those benchmark nights there that the venue has had so many of.
Thank you for telling this story. I'm really sorry that it hasn't been upvoted more. This was wonderful to read.
Time to rest now, John. Rest well. 💜💔
I've been crying, I got to do a mini tour with them in 97. 7 dates... John was a heavenly angel.
Way too young to go.
Alzheimers SUCKS👎💔
Thank you for your sincere compliment, love and support, I really appreciate you and I would love to know you more. Hope you don’t mind?
I too have early onset Alzheimer’s (49). I hope this raises awareness. Feel you brother and your family.
Good luck with everything; keep fighting the good fight.
Plant based diet. It will improve.
I wish you the best :) keep fighting
@@rogerc23 Go keto. Low carb.
My mom was diagnosed with it at 56, she passed away at 69. So sorry to you!
I'm currently a Candian University student, I just started listening to Spirit of the West because of an experience I had a few months ago. There is a coffee shop in my town, and upstairs they have a tiny room with a stage at the front, where they do open mics. My girlfriend plays there occasionally, and I went to watch her. Anyways, this guy comes on stage, and absolutely shreds this song. Here we were, a bunch of kids, bouncing off the walls of this tiny, cramped room in a frenzy. I was actually afraid that we would collapse the floor and fall onto the patrons of the coffee shop. I will never forget that experince, and it pains me to realize the era I have missed.
that being said. This song is still played often in most irish pubs that play live music across the nation. It's quite classic.
@@robertmacnaughton4190 and that era of music...will never die
I was a student at UBC in the early 90s. This song really represents that era for me, and ya, it was crazy. The place went nuts when they played this. SOTW actually played the pit once.
I'm just starting my first year at BCIT and I just found this song. I cant stop listening to it, I love this kind of music but you hear it coming out less and less which is a little sad. I'm only 18 and I hope that I still have the chance to attend a party where they play this instead of the modern rap that we all hear.
@@robertmacnaughton4190 That, sir, is one of the kindest responses I have read in a while. Joshua, you may have missed seeing SOTW, live but you have their music to enjoy. Just know that you'll find and create your own joy to add to that. The experiences of good music never truly die, they just get experienced and passed on. I'm glad you're listening to this incredible band. Now you'll know why so many people smile as much as they do when their music comes on. They were ahead of their time, and their music continues to stand to that test.
Can you imagine the music John and Gord would be making right now? That is heaven.
N'ere a bad memory to the classic. College days and love.....Thank you, John for being on the soundtrack of my life!
I feel like someone punched me in the heart. It's like Gord Downie all over again except I actually met John.
Rest in peace, John. Such a Canadian talent and a voice of a generation.
truly beautiful tribute. One of the most ironic pub songs of all time. Thank you John for all the joy you brought to our weary world. You are truly home for a rest.
This was my wedding first dance song with my life buddy/partner/husband back in July 2000. My great aunt and grandmother thought it was great that the 'kids' were dancing to a good old reel. Still a good time 24 years later, almost 25.❤ Yes, I did see the band play live at a festival a few years ago back in Toronto and told them and said thank you😂
Who are the two cold hearted people who voted this down!! AMAZING brought a tear to my eye
This song is an anthem for canadians... I traveled when I was younger and when home was missed we'd listen to this... you'd find all the other canadians in and around as this played. You'll be missed John.
Guys, put out a tribute album. Bring that power to 12 SOTW tracks and I'll buy it with bells on.
YES!
HELL TO THE YEAH MAKE THIS HAPPEN
Until today, I never knew I was credited in this video by Alan Doyle nearly 2 years ago...**pass the tissues** 😢😢😢 Rest easy, John 💔
Thank you for your sincere compliment, love and support, I really appreciate you and I would love to know you more. Hope you don’t mind?
Thanks for your consistent love and support towards me on my page, I really appreciate and can’t thank you enough. Write me with the address above so we can have more positive conversations about music and life in general 🥂💙
I just love how all of them care so much about him to get together and do this to raise money I love this and it makes me want to cry tears of joy
Edit: and wow 10 dislikes
canadian eh!
Every time I watch this goddamn video, I can't help but tear up. The show of support is incredible
Update: Now that he's gone, the effect has increased
callled being Canadian
If you don't know what the band did for him to keep him performing for as long as possible, you should look into the story. It's as heart-warming as you'd think it would be.
The best of humanity right there in these weary days!
Funny I’m only seeing this now for the first time.
I've been living abroad for the last three years, and didn't know John Mann had died until an hour ago. I'm going to see if I can find him an episode of DaVinci's Inquest or Cold Squad. I'm glad to see him having so much fun at this concert, as he always did.
I Love This Song! RIP John!~ 🫶🏾👍🏾👍🏾🙏🏾🫶🏾
I saw Spirit of the West a few years ago and was so saddened to see John reading all the lyrics from an iPad. Despite that they still put on an incredible show.
This was awesome. What a great tribute to John Mann.
At least he hasn't lost any dancing skills but yes he can't remember songs anymore, not even his top song. Sad he was an amazing singer, saw them twice in concert when they opened for GBS.
Just found this. 5 years later, it still hasn't lost a thing. Truly moved. Thank-you Allan, and all the Canadian musicians. For several years I have felt that Canada is not lines that politicians drew in the sands many years ago. It's the people (like this) that truly represent what Canada is. Cheers!
this song got me through me early university days, the country mouse did not easily convert to city life, and this song helped me through those long lonely days!
In the last year canadian musicians have sure got behind each other. Its a small market but we respect each other
Not THAT small a market! 😁
I love this song about nature! It is a tribute to the Canadian artist Tom Thomson. ❤️
I first saw Spirit of the West at the CNE Grandstand in the summer of 1990. They were opening for Melissa Etheridge and it was pouring rain but it didn't matter once the band took the stage and started in on "Home For A Rest"... the whole audience was on their feet and dancing in the rain. I was at the concert with my brother and my best friend and, to this day, when I hear this song I am back at the Grandstand dancing my heart out.
Ten years later my mother started showing the first signs of Alzheimer's, which had already taken my grandmother, and we began the painful journey that this terrible disease takes the entire family on. I think it wonderful that so many of Canada's music community came together to create what has instantly become a favourite version of a beloved song.
I will be making a donation immediately after posting this.
I discovered SOTW in 1988 at the WOMAD festival in Toronto. True to WOMAD's mission, they were sharing the bill with a band from Senegal. I completely fell in love with their energy and take on folk music. I saw them multiple times in the 1990's (RIP Ontario Place Forum) and had a blast each and every time. Much love to John, SOTW, and all the fans out there.
This is an iconic Canadian song. The dance floor goes from sparse to full just 10 seconds into this song. It’s truly amazing and infectious!!
I saw them at a very small venue with maybe a crowd of maybe 300 in the late 1990s. Very cool!
It was 3 months ago that I wanted to listen to some music searching up GBS and then came across SOTW videos then this one. I had no idea John Mann was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s in 2014. I was very surprised. Then I did a further search to see if I could donate money to him/his family and discovered he sadly died last fall.
I will not forget him! Love ‘Home for a Rest’ and Venice is Sinking. The story behind Home For a Rest is very cool!
RIP John Mann!
Such a loss with the death of John today, but his work has become part of the musical heart of Canada which will continue to beat for generations to come.
Come on he’s no Gowan. That would be a real loss.
Thank you, John and Spirit of the West for a life-defining song. Thank to all your friends for this video. I have shared with all my friends as we are all so sad, touch and inspired by you. THANK YOU FOR BEING YOU AND A GREAT CANADIAN ICON
Saw the show in Toronto. One of the best nights of my life. Truly a celebration. This is incredible.
One of my favourite songs, I don;t understand how we have 8 people with thumbs down. My Mother died of Alzheimers. I know I'm making spelling mistakes right now but a great group of musicians came to suppprt a great cause and an artist they love. Any who I give it 9 thumbs up so that eraticates all of the negative people on this thread. Sorry I double stamped it an no stamp backs lol. Or maybe turn up your speakers and put away your video game and listen to live. Not going to say anything more as I'm being nice.
its like a part of Canada has gone missing...fallen away......but will always be there...remembered..woven into the rich tapestry of what we are...joined by others in a large web of talent from the past...who will always be there...in our hearts...in our minds, souls...and lives.....he did well, now, he is.... home, for, a, resttttttttt
I have only recently discovered Spirit of the West but learning about John and seeing recordings has made me feel so emotional. Thanks to John for his contribution. xx
Literal tears of joy. Oh canada, i love this song
I have been inside for too long, but im glad this song exists, because it helps alleviate the depressing world right now.
First time I heard this tune I was driving home from the hospital in Sarnia on the secondary highways with no traffic. I didn't think a six banger could go that fast in such a heavy convertible. Spirit has been around a long time. They just keep getting better.
Great song, great Canadian talent representing . RIP
My music teacher showed us this video and me and my best friend started to cry when my music teacher was explaining all of what we were gonna watch and John Mann having bad memory but this is TRUE amazing music! :D
LARGE BOX of KLEENEX time.. Thank you to all those friends of Jon Mann
Watching John bouncing around the stage is incredible. Just having a time!
Rest easy John. You were the voice of many of our formidable college years!
sarah's voice is haunting on this
Alan, sorry for the loss of your west coast brother. If you need a vaycay...i'll meet you at Bowies, in Smiths Falls of course...sometime in April will do, thanx man. RIP MANN
That must have been a hell of a party!
Over the years i saw SOTW 13 times, had chats with most of the band, even shared a few drinks with them. its not fair to compare John to Gord, but SOTW should have got a true farewell special as well, it was true music straight to the heart. look at the talent assembled, Jim Cuddy's unmistakable voice to start, Alan doyle and his trademark count get the song rocking, Sarah showing her old friend true love with the Kiss. it breaks my heart i will never see them again, take my Kids to see this amazing group. Love you John
There will never be another John Mann.
Kendel Carson 😍😍😍
Bellissima canzone e grande Alan Doyle ❤❤❤❤❤❤
wow 2 years ago today. RIP John
Thanks for this song Mr. Mann and Spirit of the West! A lot of good times were shared with this song being part of them! AWESOME tribute all - VERY well done!!!
When I'm having a shitty day, this is my song to belt out at the top of my lungs!!! Thank you Marilyn for sharing your Uber talented kids❤
Now THAT is the right way to honour someone!! As a fellow musician and huge SOTW fan there is no greater sound than this. And I sincerely hope that this not only raises awareness, but brings a tear to your eye like it did for me. You did us proud John, and my hat is off to all of the musicians, crew, and engineers that put this together!!
Remembering John MANN...WHO LEFT US WAY TOO SOON.......Spirit of The West...great band......saw them in my home city......Birmingham...late 80's...love this version.......'BAND AID.....WITH ATTITUDE!'
Venice is sinking and John has gone Home For A Rest. R.I.P John. Thanks for the music.
Is there anything Ed can't do?.. Friggin amazing.. ❤
Reunite his band?
Watching Spirit Unforgettable, I see an artist that only now in my later years have heard about... I'm moved.
How can such a fun and happy song cause me to cry? Amazing.
What a songwriter John was. Among the best of them! Thanks for this.
RIP John I will always remember seeing you twice in concert!!! This is Canada's second anthem.
Best concert I ever attended. Best performance of this song by so many talented Canadian musicians. My wife wouldn't let me bid above $2000 for the guitar auction at the end. I would have paid a lot more to get on stage with these find people! RIP John Mann.
The most Canadian thing to ever exist.
John I would just like to thank you for making my life better and more full . I wish I could have met you and just had a nice conversation about anything . You were and still are a big part of my life so , Thank you and too your family .
Miss him and his music and his acting. Great song
A band I never got to see play. Another band synonymous with Canadian music. This tribute both makes me want to get up and dance and since along because it is such a Canadian song, yet also saddens me because we lost an amazing entertainer and person. It was a testament to thw man thst all this amazing Canadian artist made this tribute.
Such an incredible privilege to have been part of such a night.
Lydia Stevens If you've never been to an Alan Doyle concert you have never had a fun time! Alan gives a show that has you on your feet the entire time! Your smiling, laughing and all of your 'down in the dump' feelings no longer exist! He transcends you into a world of joy and happiness with his talent and music. His stories are filled with laughable witticisms. He makes me proud to be a Canadian! To know him is to love him, to read his books is an insight to his life and his music a look into his soul!
Been a fan of Doyle and Great Big Sea the last 25… years! Great music and always a real guy.
Thank you for your sincere compliment, love and support I really appreciate you for being a fan of mine and I would like to know you if you don’t mind.
My God this is incredible. Just like saying good bye to Gord. I’m full of tears.....
WHAT!? EVER SINCE MY FIRST TIME HEARING THIS I WISHED IT WAS COVERED MY ALAN OR GBS! THIS IS WHAT MY SOUL NEEDED! I am thankful you exist, Alan.
this is so great....so many great artists got together to do something great ,,,,,,..you need to come back to the States ...western NY ...Niagara falls buffalo ...Lewiston...even the New York state fair ..... sending prayers for for you all.......keep up the great work......love you all.....
One of my favourite songs sung by so many of my favourite singers! What a fantastic tribute to a lovely man!
Lovely.
This is literally royalty
All time classic car ride tune for me and mine, love this song, loved this band, will always love Canadian Folk music.
Spirit of the West was a pillar of the 90s Canadian music scene. What a tragic loss. RIP John Mann
Most memorable show of 2017! 100% Canadiana.
John Mann, Beautiful music! Enjoy your Sailor's Rest. Love, Harpo
Rest well. So sad to hear this, and years after the fact. Spent decades in Canada, and Spirit of the West was one of my favorite bands. Loved the music and could never get enough of John's voice.
The power of music!
Wow...
SO GLAD I WAS THERE, IT WAS ONE OF THE MOST AMAZING NIGHTS....
RIP John, to young, too soon. Your music will always bring me back to a great time and place.
The *REAL* national anthem of Canada. 💪😃🍺
Kindness is what we are beautiful
Omg!! I am crying with joy😂!! Soooo gooood!!!
This is an awesome thing you're doing, Mr Doyle. Big fan of both GBS and SOTW for years and years.
I covered Ordinary Day at karaoke last week and got a standing ovation. Everyone was stoked to hear it. I then shook the hands of about six fellow east coasters. (In Alberta miles from any ocean)
Heavens newest song man R.I.P. John. Thanks for doing this guys and gals it’s an awesome sendoff I’m sure John is watching it from above. 😢
This truly gave me chills. That has never happened before. Ghost of the 90s or something boooooh.
Thanks for sharing this, Alan.
I've seen SOTW play more than any other band.
(GBS a close 2nd)
Always a great show. Never disappointed.
I can spare a measly $25
Love ya John.
Cheers.
JH
This is fantastic...One of my favourite songs too.
Thank you for your sincere compliment, love and support, I really appreciate you and I would love to know you more. Hope you don’t mind?
Rest easy John. We miss you.
I'm sorry for the lost
RIP John. You are well missed!
Rest in Peace sir your battle has been won.
You will be missed, John, but your music will live forever! RIP