May 14, 1953

Lynn Lake, Manitoba Canada

 

Tom Cochrane helped form the band Red Rider in 1978 and became what I would have called for many years a one hit wonder.  Although they did have some decent songs Red Rider certainly only had one hit with the song "Lunatic Fringe".  It is still to this day one of my favorite songs, and 27 years after its release in 1981 still gets radio airtime.  Of course you have to listen to the oldies station like I do to hear it, but that is another matter.

 

Then in 1991 Tom started a solo career with another big hit “Life is a Highway” which just like his last hit has been an enduring favorite for many years.  I would have to say that “Life is a Highway” is my favorite Tom Cochrane song because of its upbeat and fun rhythm.  There is no way to not get just a little bit happier when you hear that song.  If you are driving and it comes on the radio you have to drive just a little bit faster and bob your head.  I love songs that have the ability to put a smile on your face and this one most certainly does that.

 

Tom still lives in Canada but spends his winters just outside of Austin Texas.  You know he must be smart if he gets the hell out of Canada in the winter time.  Tom is an avid golfer and pilot who has flow in Canadian CF-18’s twice.  Who knew that Canada had a military?  I would have to imagine that since they have such a large French influence they keep their white flags handy at all times.  It has been far too long since his last hit so hopefully Tom will come out with another great song soon.