Written by: Thomas Blackwood

Roger Doucet: The Iconic Voice of Canadian Patriotism

The Bilingual Tenor Behind the Anthem

Roger Doucet was a Canadian tenor renowned for his powerful renditions of the national anthem, "O Canada," during televised games of the Montreal Canadiens, Montreal Alouettes, and Montreal Expos in the 1970s. His unique bilingual version, sung in both French and English, resonated with Canadians across the country, making him an integral part of the nation's sporting culture.

A Career that Began with Hockey

Doucet's first performance of the national anthem at a Canadiens game took place on October 13, 1970. Andrew Podnieks, a renowned author, noted that Doucet's energetic performance "energized the crowd as much as any Lafleur slapper or Robinson hip check." This marked the beginning of a long-standing tradition, with Doucet becoming a beloved fixture at Montreal's sporting events.

A Stirring Performance at the Canada Cup

In 1976, Doucet was invited to perform at the inaugural Canada Cup tournament, where he was scheduled to sing the national anthems at a game between Czechoslovakia and the Soviet Union. However, the lyrics for the Soviet Union's national anthem had been omitted since the mid-1950s due to their Stalinist content. Undeterred, Doucet consulted with the University of Montreal's Russian department staff, who provided a modified anthem for him to sing at the game.

A Lasting Impact on Canadian Culture

Doucet's influence on Canadian culture extends beyond his iconic performances. He changed the way Canadians sing their national anthem, introducing a unique octave shift in the final phrase, "we stand on guard for thee." This innovation, initially met with skepticism, eventually became the accepted way to conclude "O Canada," and remains so to this day.

Awards and Honors

In 1980, Doucet was appointed a Member of the Order of Canada, the country's highest civilian honor, in recognition of the "feeling of pride he has instilled in his fellow citizens."

Personal Life and Legacy

Roger Doucet passed away on July 19, 1981, after a courageous battle with a brain tumor. American sportswriter Paul Zimmerman, also known as Dr. Z, remembered Doucet's performances as a highlight of his coverage of Canadiens games, saying, "He brought the house down. I mean, people would get chills."

• Birthdate: April 21, 1919
• Date of Passing: July 19, 1981

Roger Doucet's legacy continues to inspire Canadians, and his iconic performances remain an integral part of the nation's sporting heritage.

Trivia and Fun Facts

• Doucet's bilingual version of "O Canada" was initially met with skepticism, but eventually gained widespread acceptance.
• He was known for his charismatic stage presence and ability to energize the crowd.

Roger Doucet's impact on Canadian culture and sports is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and patriotism. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come.