Spotlight – Graham Trude

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Spotlight – Graham Trude.

Today’s Spotlight – Graham Trude. We caught up with Grahm to talk about his upcoming Sound of Remembrance event and how the music is growing. Check out what Graham has to say about this important moment.

Last time we talked you were just about to release PTSD and now just released 6’ in the Ground. Tell us the story behind your new music?

After releasing PTSD, I wanted to keep telling stories that are real to me and meaningful to others, such as veterans and first responders. Each song is part of a larger mission for me—to honour these stories and hopefully reach people who are walking a similar path. Music has been such a powerful outlet for me to address my own experiences, from PTSD to struggles with mental health and substance use. 6’ in the Ground is just one of many steps in that journey, and it’s been incredible to see people connect with it.

Coming off the PTSD release how has your music evolved with 6’ in the Ground?

After releasing PTSD, I felt an evolution in my music—a deeper dive into storytelling that’s both personal and universal. With 6’ in the Ground, the focus shifted from my own struggles with PTSD to a broader reflection on loss, resilience, and the sacrifices made by those who serve. Musically, I wanted to capture a raw, grounded sound that feels like it speaks directly to the listener, almost like a conversation.

I’d say PTSD the song, marks a shift towards even more honesty and depth, tackling some of the hardest realities we face as veterans and first responders. The feedback has shown me just how powerful it is to lean into that vulnerability. My music’s evolving in a way that lets me connect with listeners who are looking for something real—a kind of soundtrack for navigating life after service

Countrycore Records is about to put on the Second Annual Sound of Remembrance Event. How did this event come to be and your roll in putting it together?

The Sound of Remembrance event was born from a simple yet powerful idea: to honour the sacrifices of veterans and first responders through music and community. Last year, we organized the first event in Meaford, Ontario, and the response was incredible. We realized we had created a space where veterans, families, and supporters could come together to remember, reflect, and heal, and it felt important to keep that going.

For the second annual Sound of Remembrance, we’ve moved to the Canadian War Museum in Ottawa, and it’s shaping up to be even bigger. My role has been deeply involved—from organizing the event logistics and coordinating with artists to performing and sharing my own story on stage. Each part of this process has been about building a memorable evening that’s dedicated to the memories and experiences of those who served.

What makes this event even more meaningful is that all proceeds go to Soldier On Canada, supporting the recovery of ill and injured Canadian Armed Forces members and veterans. It’s a cause that’s very close to my heart, and the team at Countrycore Records and I are committed to making this an annual tradition that continues to grow in reach and impact.

How important are events like this for the community?

Events like the Sound of Remembrance are incredibly important for the community because they provide a space for collective healing, support, and remembrance. For veterans and first responders, as well as their families and friends, these gatherings validate their experiences and sacrifices in a way that few other events can. They remind us that we’re not alone in the challenges we face after service or in the weight of memories we carry.

The broader community benefits as well, gaining a deeper understanding of the lives of those who served and the challenges they continue to face. It brings everyone together around a common purpose — to remember, honour, and give back. Through the power of music and storytelling, events like this help break down barriers and create real connections between those who served and the communities they protected.

It’s also about raising awareness and support, especially with the funds going toward programs like Soldier On Canada. The impact of an event like this goes beyond just one evening; it’s a lasting show of solidarity and a meaningful way to give back.

What are some of the hard parts navigating an event like this?

Putting together an event like the Sound of Remembrance comes with a lot of moving parts, and one of the hardest aspects is balancing the logistical demands with the emotional weight of the event. This isn’t just a concert—it’s a tribute, a place of healing, and a way to honour those who have sacrificed. So every detail needs to reflect that purpose, and that takes a lot of care and sensitivity in the planning.

Another challenge is securing the right partnerships and resources to make it impactful. We want to provide a memorable experience that resonates, so working with the right artists, venue, and sponsors is essential. Coordinating all these elements can be complex, especially when we’re also aiming to maximize the proceeds for Soldier On Canada.

Additionally, there’s a level of emotional responsibility involved. Many veterans and first responders attending are carrying heavy memories, and creating a space that feels safe and supportive means a lot to me personally. Balancing the practical logistics with that deeper emotional mission is definitely a challenge, but it’s one that makes this event so rewarding to bring to life

You’ve had a successful career in music and served in the military. If you could teach a masterclass to new recruits or aspiring artists, what would the focus be, and what lessons from both worlds would you share?

If I were to teach a masterclass, I’d focus on resilience and finding purpose — two lessons that have been at the core of both my military, police service and my music career. Whether you’re stepping into the military or pursuing a career in music, you’re bound to face challenges that test you deeply. The key is learning how to stand firm through those tests and come out stronger on the other side.

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned from both worlds is the importance of adaptability. In the military, you’re trained to think on your feet, to react to the unexpected, and to keep moving forward, no matter the obstacles. That same adaptability is crucial in music, where the industry can change overnight, and setbacks are just part of the journey. Flexibility and a strong sense of self keep you grounded.

Another lesson is about purpose. In the military, you’re driven by a mission bigger than yourself, and in music, I’ve found that connecting with my audience and sharing real, meaningful stories creates a similar sense of purpose. Knowing why you do what you do gives you a foundation to stand on when things get tough.

Finally, I’d emphasize the power of community. In both the military and music, having a supportive community around you can make all the difference. Whether it’s your brothers and sisters in arms or your team and fans in music, these connections are everything. Building strong relationships, staying humble, and being there for others are lessons I’d carry into any masterclass, because, in the end, none of us do this alone.

As a proud Canadian artist, how do you balance representing your local roots with reaching an international audience, especially through streaming platforms and social media?

Being a Canadian artist is a big part of my identity, and I’m proud to represent my roots in everything I do. There’s something about the Canadian spirit—our resilience, honesty, and connection to the land and each other—that I think comes through in music. My goal is to bring that sense of authenticity to listeners, whether they’re from my hometown or across the world.

Balancing this with an international reach is about finding the common threads that resonate universally. Through streaming platforms and social media, I can connect with people who may not share my background but who relate to the themes in my songs—like resilience, mental health, and the sacrifices of service. These are universal experiences, and I aim to create music that speaks to those shared truths while staying true to my roots.

Social media especially allows me to bring fans into my world, sharing not just the music but the stories behind it. It’s about giving a glimpse into the life and perspectives of a Canadian artist and hopefully making a connection that feels real, regardless of where someone is listening from. That connection is powerful, and it’s amazing to see my music cross borders, creating a shared space for people from all backgrounds.

What are some of the easy way people can help support they might not know about?

Supporting causes or artists doesn’t always mean making big donations or buying concert tickets. There are a lot of simple ways people can make a difference that they might not even realize. For events like the Sound of Remembrance, simply spreading the word can have a huge impact. Sharing posts on social media, telling friends and family, or even just engaging with our content online helps raise awareness and brings more people into the community.

Another easy way to support is by streaming and sharing our music on platforms like Spotify, Apple Music, or YouTube. Every play counts, and when you add a song to a playlist or recommend it to others, it helps boost visibility, especially for indie artists like me. Even leaving a positive comment or review on these platforms is a great way to show support.

For causes like Soldier On Canada, getting involved can also mean volunteering your time or participating in local fundraising events. Small actions, whether it’s showing up, sharing information, or lending a hand, all contribute to creating a stronger, more supportive community. These small gestures, combined, create a ripple effect that helps bring more attention and resources to causes that matter.

We talked about breaking genre rules and the way music is evolving. If you could make a song completely outside your own style what would that look like and who might be a collab that would fit?

I’ve always been interested in blending different genres, and if I could step completely outside my usual style, I’d love to create something that’s a fusion of Lo-Fi beats and orchestral elements, maybe with a bit of dark, cinematic flair. Picture something atmospheric that combines the raw storytelling from country with the laid-back vibe of Lo-Fi and the intensity of orchestral arrangements. I think it could create a unique soundscape that tells a story on a whole different level.

For a collaboration, working with someone like Adam Young (Owl City) would be incredible. He’s an artist who’s always experimenting with different textures and has this ability to create music that feels both intimate and expansive. I think we could find some really powerful common ground in blending our approaches to storytelling and sound. Another artist that comes to mind is Ryuichi Sakamoto; he brings such depth and emotion to his compositions, and I think his style would bring something hauntingly beautiful to the project.

Is there an interesting theme you would like to explore in your music you having touched on yet?

One theme I’d really like to explore in my music is the concept of redemption—not just the big, dramatic moments, but the quiet, everyday ways people find a way back to themselves. So often, redemption is painted as a single moment of triumph, but in reality, it’s a journey with a lot of small, often painful steps. It’s something I think a lot of people can relate to, whether it’s healing from trauma, overcoming addiction, or simply finding a sense of peace.

I’d love to approach it through stories of people who’ve faced their own darkness and somehow managed to come out the other side, changed but whole. Musically, I think it would be powerful to experiment with a stripped-back, almost raw sound that lets the lyrics carry the weight of the journey. There’s a lot of beauty in the struggle, and capturing that in music could resonate in a way that’s real and healing for others.

Who plays you in the movie of your life?

If they were casting the movie of my life, I’d want someone who could really capture the grit, resilience, and humour that come with both a military background and a career in music. Someone like Jeremy Renner would be a great fit. He has this authentic, down-to-earth energy and can convey a lot of depth and intensity, which would be important for capturing some of the tougher parts of my journey. Plus, he’s got that grounded feel, which would be perfect for the Canadian vibe.

If we’re talking a little outside the box, Tom Hardy would also be incredible. He’s got that mix of intensity and vulnerability, and he’s not afraid to take on complex roles. I think he’d bring a lot of authenticity to the highs and lows, and he’d nail that blend of strength and sensitivity that’s been a big part of my story.

If you had to introduce your music to a brand new listener for the first time, what is the first song they need to listen to?

If I had to introduce my music to someone new, I’d probably start with “Wasted Away”. It’s a song that captures so much of what I aim to express—the raw emotion, the personal stories, and the depth that comes with reflecting on life, service, and loss. This track speaks to the experiences and sacrifices of veterans and first responders in a real, unfiltered way. It’s not just a song; it’s a story, and I think it gives a listener a true sense of who I am and the journey I’ve been on.

For anyone listening for the first time, I’d want them to hear that honesty and connect with the message. I think “Wasted Away” is the kind of song that can bridge gaps, reaching both those who’ve been through similar experiences and those who just want to understand it better.

What are some of the next milestones you are looking to hit?

Looking ahead, there are a few milestones I’m excited to work toward. First, I’d love to continue growing Countrycore Records and expanding its reach to support more artists and veterans in telling their stories through music. Building a platform that helps amplify voices with powerful messages is a big goal for me, and representing artists like Jason “Slim” Gambill in Canada is a step in that direction.

Another milestone is to keep evolving my own music, experimenting with genres, and releasing songs that reach broader audiences internationally. I’ve been working on a few collaborations across different genres, from Lo-Fi beats to high-anthem country, and I’m excited to see how that versatility can connect with more listeners.

On a personal level, a big milestone is also finishing my book, which dives into my journey and experiences. That’s been a deeply personal project, and I think it will give people a unique look behind the scenes of both my life and my music. And, of course, I want to keep growing the Sound of Remembrance event, making it a staple in the veteran and first responder community—a place for healing, honouring, and remembering.

Last but not least, Are you Happy?

Happiness is definitely a journey for me, and it’s something I’ve come to understand in layers. I’ve been through my share of challenges—between military service, the highs and lows of music, and navigating personal struggles—but I think all of that has given me a deeper appreciation for the moments of peace and fulfillment I do find.

Right now, I’m happy with the direction I’m heading. Music has become this incredible outlet for processing my experiences, and I get to connect with people who resonate with my story. Being able to work on projects like the Sound of Remembrance and seeing the impact it has on others is truly fulfilling. There are tough days, of course, but I’m grateful for the path I’m on and the support of the people around me.

So, yeah, I’d say I’m happy—and always working toward finding even more peace and meaning along the way.

Spotlight – Graham Trude is a wrap! Big thanks to Graham for shinning some light on this amazing event coming up

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