How many of these "classics" would even be on the radar if not for the CRTC policy of forcing Canadian content down our throats? IMO, at least half of songs mentioned in this thread are only here because government mandated heavy rotation on radio and Much Music has burned them into our brains.
To turn that on its nose, how many great artists would not have had a chance to showcase their talents and grow musically if not given a chance by CanCon? It was much easier to be lost in the tide of the US back in the 70s and 80s, I would argue, when independent labels and such were a non-factor in the industry.
Many of the greatest bands did not "make it" until their third or fourth album. Queen's big breakthrough was
A Night at the Opera, their fourth album, for example. CanCon's policy may just have allowed some great artists to slip through who otherwise would have been lost in the sheer amount of music coming from the US.
Don't get me wrong - every time a Sam Roberts song comes on the radio I curse that bloody legislation. But I also recognize that Sam Roberts appeals to many people, and on balance CamCon's policy is probably a benefit.
