John Gracie

Cape Breton University is delighted to honour and recognize an acclaimed singer-songwriter who promotes the spirit and culture of Cape Breton and Nova Scotia through his music, Mr. John Gracie.

John Gracie is a multiple award-winning singer-songwriter and JUNO nominee, born and raised on North Street in Glace Bay—literally, just a stone’s throw from the Atlantic Ocean. Deeply shaped by Cape Breton’s rugged coastline and cultural richness, his music reflects the spirit of the sea, the coal mines, and the people of Cape Breton and Nova Scotia. As the son of a coal miner, John’s early songs paid tribute to the working-class heroes of his hometown. One of his most personal songs, Seabird’s Cry, was inspired by time spent with his father at the Glace Bay wharf, watching the seagulls and talking about life—simple moments that quietly shaped his path and his perspective. His mother, hearing her five year old singing behind the coal stove, recognized his talent and put money away weekly to see that he attended vocal lessons.

After university, John began performing across Cape Breton, including unforgettable nights at Cape Breton University—then known as UCCB. He fondly recalls the nights at the campus pub, where the music, laughter and the crowd’s energy cemented his love for performing and for connecting with people through song.

His talent soon took him across the globe, appearing on national television and proudly sharing the music and stories of his home region with international audiences. He has released 15 albums in genres that include Folk, Americana, Country, Swing Jazz and best selling Christmas projects.

John has long used his music as a force for good—writing songs to support food banks, to promote social justice, and to honour frontline heroes. He was commissioned to write I’ll Be Your Voice, a moving tribute to nurses and healthcare workers, which resonated deeply during the pandemic.

His powerful ballad Kiss Me brings attention to the often-overlooked reality of homelessness, shining a compassionate light on the struggles faced by those living on the streets. The song highlights how mental illness and addiction are at the heart of this crisis, urging listeners to look beyond stereotypes and see the human beings behind the hardship.

His highly reviewed album, A Gene MacLellan Tribute, also reflects his deep respect for Canadian songwriters.

One of John’s most beloved songs, Cape Breton Christmas Morn, sparked a beautiful tradition at Wentworth Park, where he launched an annual Christmas concert that continued for over a decade. His goal was always simple: to help families of Industrial Cape Breton create new memories in the same place where generations before them had gathered.

Now living in Dartmouth, John remains deeply connected to Cape Breton. He is married to Andree Morrison Gracie and is a proud father to John Coady, Samantha, and Nash.

Today, Cape Breton University confers the degree Doctor of Letters, honoris causa on a man who has used his voice not just to sing, but to tell stories that matter—to make people feel seen, to bring comfort, and to shine a light on causes close to his heart, Mr. John Gracie.