The Cooper Brothers remind Canadians of the many reasons be proud of their homeland with their newly reissued anthem and video That’s What Makes Us Great — showcasing today on Tinnitist.
First released more than a decade ago — but back in circulation as a response to recent political antics and antagonism occuring south of the border — That’s What Makes Us Great is an unabashed love letter to the true north strong and free, celebrating the spirit, resilience and pride that define our country.
Inspired by a chance encounter with young soldiers returning from Afghanistan, Richard Cooper channeled their passion, dedication, and unwavering belief in making a difference into lyrics that remind us of what it means to be Canadian. “We never seem to toot our own horn,” Cooper reflects, “but we have so much to be thankful for.”
From universal healthcare to Tim Hortons, from beavertails and poutine to cold beer and hot women, That’s What Makes Us Great captures the essence of a country that doesn’t like to brag but has every reason to. Produced by Grammy winner Colin Linden, this track is infused with the classic Cooper Brothers sound: Heartfelt storytelling, undeniable energy, and a chorus made for singing at the top of your lungs — whether you’re in a packed hockey arena or around a campfire up north.
The Cooper Brothers first gained attention when they signed with Capricorn Records (home to The Allman Brothers and Marshall Tucker) in Macon, Georgia. They released two albums for the label, the eponymous Cooper Brothers and Pitfalls Of The Ballroom. Singles like The Dream Never Dies, Rock And Roll Cowboys and I’ll Know Her When I See Her all charted on Billboard’s Hot 100 in the U.S.
Among their many accolades, The Cooper Brothers were voted Best New Group in 1978, Best MOR Group in 1979 and Best Overall Group in 1980 by Canadian Contemporary Music Programmers. In 1980, The Dream Never Dies also earned an ASCAP Award as one of the most played songs on U.S radio. At the height of their career, the band toured extensively with The Doobie Brothers, Joe Cocker, Charlie Daniels and the Atlanta Rhythm Section, garnering stellar reviews.
The Cooper Brothers continue to perform and have released a number of critically acclaimed recent albums including In From The Cold (produced by Linden and featuring Jim Cuddy, Delbert McClinton and Chuck Leavell, Southbound (recorded at The Tragically Hip’s studio and produced by Blue Rodeo’s Colin Cripps) and their latest album Radio Silence.
Watch the video for That’s What Makes Us Great above, hear more from The Cooper Brothers below, and join them on their website, Facebook and Instagram.
