Introduction
BREAKING NEWS: Rod Stewart Sparks Emotional Wave with Surprise Canadian Tribute at Toronto Concert — “We Will Survive” Parody Captures Hearts Across the Nation
In an unforgettable moment during his recent performance at Toronto’s Budweiser Stage, music legend Rod Stewart left fans stunned and smiling as he played a parody of Gloria Gaynor’s iconic anthem “I Will Survive”—but with a bold Canadian twist. The crowd erupted as a video titled “We Will Survive” lit up the stage, humorously addressing U.S. tariffs and political tensions, while proudly celebrating Canadian resilience. What began as a clever protest song has now become a viral sensation.
The powerful voice behind the parody belongs to Sonia Zbak, a singer from southern Ontario, who collaborated with longtime family friend Wayne McFall to bring the lyrics of late Canadian high school teacher Gourd Moran to life. Moran, who passed away earlier this year, had written the parody in response to political comments about Canada potentially becoming America’s “51st state.” His words—reimagined into a disco battle cry—have since ignited a movement of unity and humor among Canadians.
Zbak recalls the moment she first found out her version was featured at the Rod Stewart concert: “I was in bed scrolling through my phone when a friend messaged me a video from the show. I thought it was a joke—until I saw it with my own eyes. My heart just stopped.”
Since the video’s release, “We Will Survive” has garnered millions of views online. Canadians—and even some Americans—have responded with overwhelming positivity. From people line dancing to the tune in community centers, to emotional messages about reclaiming pride during turbulent times, the impact has been profound. One particularly memorable comment came from a mother who said her son was teaching other kids the lyrics on the playground—until a teacher asked them to stop.
More than just a parody, the song has become a unifying anthem. “This was never about anger—it was about strength, identity, and hope,” Zbak shared. “And sometimes, the best way to speak truth is through a song.”
As Rod Stewart’s gesture showed, music still has the power to move, unite, and uplift—even in the most unexpected ways.