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In thirty-nine years, Brian MacLeod accomplished more in his short life than most musicians can only aspire to. Born in Halifax and raised in Newfoundland & Labrador, Brian was a natural at every instrument he cared to pick up.
Early in life Brian had to make a tough decision. At age 12 Brian took home a bronze medal at the junior men's 1967 Winter Games. Figure skating since the age of seven, Brian would go on to win many skating accolades.
So, would he lace up the skates or pick up a six-string guitar? The pull of music won out and Brian never looked back.
Even at the age of ten and playing in local rock and roll bands, everyone knew Brain was destined for greater things.
Brian's star began to rise during his days with local groups like "Huski" and " Garrison Hill" as well as "Peppertree" out of Halifax.
In 1975 he released a 45 record on the Nebula label "You Know I Can't Do Anymore" and a salute to his adopted province "Come By Chance".
In the mid seventies and a chance meeting with touring female singer Pam Marsh, they recorded a demo tape at Echo Music and set out for Toronto to form the band "Surrender".
But Brian's talent and drive never allowed him to stay in one place too long. His next musical stop was Vancouver. Hooking up with all the right people, Brian landed a spot with rockers Chilliwack.
Folklore has it that Brian was also asked to audition for the U.S. power groups "Blood Sweat and Tears" and "Chicago".
Living aboard his beloved 41 foot power boat "Grand Mariner", boasting a custom recording studio, with his first mate dog "Sailor", and his vintage red and white corvette parked nearby...life was good.
Though the living quarters were cramped, Brian found space to display his multiple Juno awards for his work with " Chilliwack", "The Good Brothers" and his pet project, "The Headpins" featuring Darby Mills.
Brian came by his nick name "Too Loud Macleod" honestly.
Brian would also write and collaborate with Bryan Adams, Loverboy, Chicago, Jermaine Jackson and blues singer Nancy Nash.
But his passion for music took its toll. The long sessions and longer parties saw Brian check into a local hospital for a nagging neck pain.
Tests revealed a rare germ cell cancer-mediastinal sarcomatous transformation.
Though the news was devastating Brian was no quitter. He researched his medical condition and sought out every type of cure.
All the while he still pursued his passion for music, working with then rocker Chrissy Steele.
Many of his friends came to his aid organizing a benefit with headliners Bryan Adams, Loverboy, Chilliwack's Bill Henderson and blues man Colin James for a 1200 seat sold out audience.
Sadly, on Saturday, April 25, 1992 Brian lost a courageous battle with cancer and this province lost a music legend. ... ... .Brian was only 39.
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