Global Hitmaker John Capek Inducted Into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame

Marc Jordan and John Capek Still on a High with Rod Stewart’s No. 1 Hit “Rhythm of My Heart”

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Nashville, Tenn. — Global hitmaker and celebrated songwriter John Capek has been officially inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame, marking a defining moment in a career that has shaped popular music across generations.

Honored at the Glenn Gould Theater inside the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation in Toronto, Capek entered the Hall of Fame alongside his long-time collaborator Marc Jordan as part of the Class of 2023. Their induction places them among iconic Canadian creators such as Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, Gordon Lightfoot, Randy Bachman, and Burton Cummings.

A composer, producer, arranger, keyboardist, and film/television scorer, Capek has spent decades crafting songs that have earned gold, platinum, and diamond certifications worldwide. His work has been recorded by some of the most influential artists of the last half-century, including Rod Stewart, Diana Ross, Bonnie Raitt, Olivia Newton-John, and Cher.

Reflecting on the honor, Capek shared his admiration for the country that shaped him creatively. “Canada occupies a unique blend in the world of popular music, clearly illustrated by the caliber of artists it has fostered. These Canadian writers don’t just write lyrics; they are poets. Like Joni Mitchell and Leonard Cohen, they transcend lyrics and have created some of the most memorable pop songs in the canon.”

He adds, “It has been more than an honor for me to join the illustrious group that comprises the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame.”

Capek’s induction recognizes a career defined by versatility and longevity. His catalog includes global hits co-written with Marc Jordan, most notably Rod Stewart’s chart-topping “Rhythm of My Heart.” Together, they also contributed to Bonnie Raitt’s “Deep Water,” crafted “Love So High” for Cher, and penned Diana Ross’ “Pieces of Ice.” Their nearly 50-year partnership has left a lasting imprint on the international music landscape.

Past Hall of Fame inductees include some of the most influential songwriters in history—Neil Young, Joni Mitchell, Leonard Cohen, Gordon Lightfoot, Paul Anka, RUSH, Bruce Cockburn, Randy Bachman, and Burton Cummings—creators behind timeless classics like “Hallelujah,” “American Woman,” “My Way,” and “Four Strong Winds.”

“Anthem songs that stand the test of time are what we hope to create as songwriters,” Capek says. “To be recognized for that by my peers and for my body of work is an honor.”

Beyond the music charts, Capek and Jordan’s compositions have also shaped film and television. Their work appears in major motion pictures such as The Perfect Storm and Loch Ness, and Capek’s musicianship can be heard on projects ranging from The Simpsons to The Chipmunks. Their contributions have earned critical acclaim, award nominations, and a respected place in cinematic scoring.

Capek expressed gratitude for the recognition: “Thank you to the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame for this honor, and to all the incredible artists I’ve had the privilege of working with along the way.”

The Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame’s Legends Series—supported by the RBC Foundation through RBC Emerging Artists—celebrates creators whose work has shaped the cultural fabric of Canada and beyond. Capek and Jordan’s induction acknowledges not only their individual achievements but also the enduring legacy of their collaborative songwriting.

“Congratulations, Marc Jordan and John Capek, on being inducted into the Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame. I have recorded many of your songs, and ‘Rhythm of My Heart’ is especially near and dear to me. I’ve been dedicating it to Zelensky and the Ukrainian people. So happy for you both—well deserved.” — Rod Stewart

“I’ve been a fan of John’s music for many years. He’s one of the deepest, most talented and soulful writers I know, and I find myself listening to his albums for inspiration and pleasure all the time.” — Bonnie Raitt

“John Capek has achieved international acclaim as an award-winning composer, songwriter, keyboard player, producer, arranger, and scorer for feature films and television.” — Nashville Music Guide

For more information and to connect with John Capek: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Spotify

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Dead Horse Branding is an award-winning branding, PR, and marketing firm based in Nashville, Tennessee. Founded in 2015 by Melissa Core-Caballo and Rick Caballo, the company has built a reputation for shaping brands, elevating careers, and launching artists with impact. Dead Horse Branding’s diverse portfolio includes projects like Baha Men’s “Who Let the Dogs Out,” Steven Tyler’s solo band LOVING MARY, Cyndi Lauper’s Detour album, the Bo Diddley Estate, Stone Country Records, Quartz Hill Records, Brown Sellers Brown, legendary Country Music Hall of Fame producer Tony Brown, multi-Grammy Award-winning songwriter/producer Keith Thomas (Whitney Houston, Amy Grant, Mandy Moore, Jessica Simpson), Grammy Award-winning songwriter/producer Aaron Pearce (Justin Bieber, Michael Jackson, Celine Dion), Michael Jay (over 75 million records sold worldwide; Celine Dion, Martika, Eminem, Kylie Minogue), Buck Johnson (Aerosmith, Hollywood Vampires), NBC’s The Voice Team Adam Levine artist Bay Simpson, and Robert’s Western World. Dead Horse Branding also helped launch Velvet Stone Management in 2016, contributing to the O’Connor Band’s Grammy win for Best Bluegrass Album. Additionally, Dead Horse Branding developed the DH7 Educational Program, an accredited and recognized initiative, with 25% of its curriculum certified for U.S. schools. The program partners with acclaimed entertainment attorney Joel A. Katz (Justin Timberlake, Christina Aguilera, George Jones) through his Music and Entertainment Business Program at Kennesaw State University—ranked by Billboard as a Top 5 Music Business Program in the USA, as well as Middle Tennessee State University, and Belmont University. Designed to bridge the gap between classroom education and real-world careers, the program empowers students with the skills to build and manage brands before they graduate.