Henri
Lariviere, who, in later years became known as Hank Rivers, was born in
Hawkesbury, Ontario. As a young
laborer with little education, Hank entertained his co-workers in the relief
camps of the Recession. His
material was the popular folk and western songs of the day.
At the outbreak of World War II, the ever-patriotic Hank signed up and moved
from the Prince of Wales Own Regiment to the Royal Canadian Ordinance Corps.
A conversation with Roy Brown of Carleton Place, the legendary flying ace
who had shot down Germany’s Red Baron, left a lasting impression that
contributed to Hank’s love of his country.
He soon became known as the “Singing Soldier” and recorded for RCA
Victor. Some of Hank’s wartime
hits included “Harrah for Camp Borden” and “Oh, but I’m Happy in the
Army”.
Hank’s meager three years of formal education were no impediment to an
impressive writing career. His
compositions drew on personal observation, and his narrations told stories of
unrequited love. After the war,
Hank returned to his Ottawa Valley and was popular in the watering holes on both
banks of the river. He was also a
popular addition to the greatest touring shows of the time and appeared with
such stars as Doc Williams, Wilf Carter and Hank Snow.
Package show appearances saw Hank share center stage with the likes of
Hoot Gibson, Grandpa Jones and the legendary Hank Williams.
Hank considered his “Centennial Travels” album one of the major highlights
of his career. This collection of
ten songs celebrated the individual beauty and accomplishments of each of
Canada’s provinces. His
dedication to his country and to his Valley inspired Hank Rivers to write and
sing from the heart. His legacy is
a lasting tribute to the man.