Image credit: Alvin Armstrong, CBC Vancouver Still Photo Collection ©

By: Kenya Isaac

Canadian music history took a hit this week with the passing of Canadian jazz legend, Eleanor Collins. Often coined as Canadas answer to Ella Fitzgerald, Collins bellowing, blissful notes have made her one of Canada’s most formidable talents. She passed away Sunday, March 3rd, 2024, at the age of 104.

Beginning her career in the 1930’s, Collins faced adversity both in her personal and professional life. After moving to Vancouver, British Columbia, her family was the first Black household in their neighbourhood. Despite her neighbours trying to push them out, Collins gave back to the community. She started volunteering at her children’s school and teaching music, hoping to counter stereotypes faced by the family.

Collins began her music career singing gospel on the radio with group Swing Low Quartet. She then went on to star in the first Canadian television show with a mixed-race cast and later as host of The Eleanor Show, becoming the first woman and the first Black artist to host their own national series.

By the 1950’s she became Canadian jazz royalty, performing with the Ray Norris Quintet and starring in many stage and radio productions. Collins continued singing into her later years, captivating audiences with gripping performances well into her 90s. In 2014 she was awarded into the Order of Canada and later in 2022, a commemorative stamp was issued in her honour.

Unfortunately, few Canadians are aware of the shining legacy that is Eleanor Collins. Despite her groundbreaking accomplishments on television and on stage, her name does not have the household popularity it should. Canada has a rich music history dating back to the 1800’s, and while many do and should know the names of Drake, Oscar Peterson, Deborah Cox, Jodie Drake, and Kardinal Offishall, the countless Black Canadian musicians who set the standard, should share the limelight. The CBMA (Canada Black Music Archives) hopes to magnify the many accolades of these foundational characters and provide a space where people can explore their music, art, and stories.

Both on screen and on the stage, Collins exuded a positive attitude and graceful stage presence. The CBMA remembers and recognizes her not only as a pillar in Canadian music, but for her incredible strength of character.