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We’re very excited to have some time today with acclaimed singer-songwriter and founder of the annual Sound of Remembrance country music concert, Graham ‘The Singing Soldier’ Trude; greetings and salutations Graham and welcome to Vents Magazine! Before we meander on down the Q&A musical pathway, how is the latter part of ‘24 treating you and yours?
It’s been quite the year! I’ve been focused on music, with a few singles like 6’ in the Ground, More Like Her, and most recently 120 Grain, which dives into the Helen Naslund story. Also, I’m gearing up for the Sound of Remembrance event at the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa. It’s something close to my heart, and I’m hoping to make it an annual tribute. On top of that, my company, Countrycore Records, is growing, and we’re now representing Jason “Slim” Gambill in Canada. It’s been a full year, balancing creativity, challenges, and some exciting new projects.
Major kudos and accolades on all of the deserved success of the annual Sound of Remembrance Event, an incredible country music concert and charitable event that you founded and which is prepping for its sophomore go-around this November 9 at the National Canadian War Museum in Ottawa, ON. Starting at the top, thank you for your own service both in the military and with the police! Was your own military service the real impetus behind inspiring the Sound of Remembrance Event?
Thank you for your kind words—they mean a lot. Yes, my military service was a big part of what inspired the Sound of Remembrance event. Serving in Afghanistan and seeing the sacrifices of so many brave men and women firsthand deeply impacted me. I wanted to create something that honoured that sacrifice while bringing together veterans, first responders, and the community to remember and support one another. The event also aims to raise funds for Soldier On, which helps veterans heal through sports and community support. It’s not just about remembrance; it’s also about creating a space for healing and connection.
Prior to founding the Sound of Remembrance Event, was there anything comparable that was being done, or was this a real pioneering effort?
There are certainly many beautiful ceremonies and events in Canada to honour our veterans and first responders, especially around Remembrance Day. But I felt there was an opportunity for something a bit different—a more personal, grassroots event led by those who’ve served. The idea behind the Sound of Remembrance was to combine music, storytelling, and community in a way that speaks directly to the veteran and first responder experience. While traditional ceremonies focus on honouring the fallen, this event also celebrates the living, acknowledging both the sacrifices and the resilience of those who continue to carry these experiences. In that sense, it’s been a bit of a pioneering effort, and the hope is to make it an annual gathering where people can come together for remembrance, healing, and support.
What set of challenges did you face in bringing the first Sound of Remembrance Event to life?
The first Sound of Remembrance event came with its fair share of challenges, no doubt. The logistics alone—finding the right venue, coordinating with various stakeholders, and organizing everything from security to tech—were complex, especially for a grassroots event. Funding was another hurdle; while we had a strong vision, getting the financial support to cover costs and make the event truly impactful was tough initially.
But perhaps the biggest challenge was getting the word out and encouraging veterans and first responders to attend. It can be hard for those who’ve experienced trauma to gather in a public setting, especially in a reflective atmosphere. I wanted to create a space where they felt comfortable, supported, and understood. Building that trust took time and outreach, but in the end, seeing people come together and connect made every hurdle worth it.
Also, collaborating with organizations like Soldier On required time to ensure our goals aligned, as we were aiming not just to host a one-off event but to create a tradition that could grow year after year. It was a learning experience, but it’s been amazing to see the impact and the momentum build for the future.
Your own label- Countrycore Records Inc. – is a vital part of bringing the Sound of Remembrance Event back for a second year. Can you talk about Countrycore and what it means to involve your own label in this annual event?
Countrycore Records Inc. is truly a labor of love for me. When I started the label, it was about more than just music—it was about creating a platform that amplifies stories and voices, especially from those with backgrounds like mine. Being able to bring Countrycore into the Sound of Remembrance event is really powerful because it allows us to give back in a way that’s deeply personal and meaningful.
Through Countrycore, we’ve been able to contribute in unique ways, like auctioning the custom walnut acoustic guitar engraved with the names of the 158 Canadians who lost their lives in Afghanistan. All proceeds go to Soldier On, which makes it even more impactful. By involving my label, I feel we’re not only supporting an important cause but also giving veterans, first responders, and their families a voice and a community. It’s not just a sponsorship—it’s a way to fuse music and purpose, turning this event into something that has the potential to grow in meaning and reach each year.
Can you talk with our readers about the amazing lineup which the Sound of Remembrance Event has planned for its November 9 show?
The lineup features:
George Canyon: A multi-award-winning country artist known for his soulful voice and deep connection to Canadian heritage.
Jason Price: Hailing from Nova Scotia, Jason brings authentic country storytelling to the stage.
Graham Trude (“The Singing Soldier”): A Collingwood, Ontario native and former soldier, Graham’s music reflects his personal experiences and dedication to service.
The evening will begin with a cocktail hour, introducing honoured dignitaries from across Canada, adding a touch of grandeur to the occasion. This event serves as a humble tribute to those who have sacrificed everything for us to be here today. It is an opportunity for us to come together as a community, express our gratitude, and show our unwavering support to the brave men and women who have dedicated their lives to serving our nation.
Looking forward, where would you like to see the Sound of Remembrance Event in three years’ time? Is the plan to always get bigger and better?
In three years, I’d love for the Sound of Remembrance to be a staple event for veterans, first responders, and communities across Canada, known not just in Ottawa but nationally. My vision is to expand its reach so more people can experience it, perhaps by bringing it to other cities or making it accessible through live streaming. The goal isn’t necessarily to get bigger in terms of scale but to deepen the impact—to have this event be a place of reflection, healing, and celebration of those who serve our country.
We’ll continue building on what we’ve started, bringing in artists who connect with the veteran and first responder experience, collaborating with supportive organizations, and making each year feel meaningful and fresh. And with Countrycore Records involved, I hope we can bring more unique elements, like music collaborations and memorabilia, that resonate with the community. Ultimately, I’d love for the Sound of Remembrance to be a beacon of gratitude and resilience, a gathering that veterans and their families can count on to feel honoured and understood.
Outside of Sound of Remembrance, what do you have coming up musically which fans should keep their eyes and ears open for?
I have a whole bunch of musical projects I’m working on as a producer, spanning everything from Lo-Fi beats to high-anthem country music. I just love writing all types of music, and being able to explore different genres keeps me creatively charged. It’s exciting to work across such a wide range of styles and see how each project develops its own unique vibe.
Who inspires you musically-speaking?
Musically speaking, I’m inspired by a range of artists and genres. Growing up, I was drawn to the storytelling in country music, but I also have a deep appreciation for the raw emotions you find in rock and even the relaxing atmosphere of Lo-Fi. Artists who push boundaries or have a distinct voice, like Johnny Cash for his honesty and grit, or producers who can blend styles seamlessly, really resonate with me. I think inspiration comes from all over—it’s the authenticity and heart in the music that keeps me motivated to create.
Any final thoughts you might like to share with our ever-inquisitive readers regarding the second annual Sound of Remembrance Event?
I’d just like to say how grateful I am for the support and curiosity around the Sound of Remembrance. This event is a chance for veterans, first responders, and the community to come together in a meaningful way, honouring the sacrifices made by so many. It’s more than just an event; it’s a way to keep the stories alive, to share in each other’s strength, and to help support those still fighting their own battles through the work of Soldier On. I invite everyone to join us, whether in person or in spirit, to remember, to celebrate, and to create a tradition that carries these legacies forward. Thank you for being part of this journey with us.
Instagram: @soundofremembrance
Facebook: @soundofremembrance
Website: https://soundofremembrance.com/
