Shania Twain added to Order of Canada list
CTV.ca News Staff
Country singer Shania Twain will receive Canada's highest honour of achievement when she receives the Order of Canada Friday.
The Timmins, Ont. native will be among 43 recipients invested by Governor General Michaelle Jean.
Twain was a last-minute addition Tuesday, the same day she was a presenter at the Country Music Awards in New York City.
Twain will be one of 18 honourees invested as officers, while the other 25 will become members.
On her way to Ottawa, she will make a stopover in Toronto, where she will be interviewed by CTV Toronto. Her new single, "Shoes," is featured on the soundtrack for CTV's Desperate Housewives.
The announcement from the Governor General's office says Twain's "rags-to-riches story...has become legendary."
The Governor General's office said Twain's nomination is the result of her remaining true to her roots, and her dedication to eliminating child hunger.
Twain reportedly supports several food distribution agencies, such as school breakfast programs and food banks.
Twain was born Eilleen Regina Edwards in Windsor, Ont. in 1965, but was raised in Timmins. She signed her first recording contract in 1991 but her career took off in 1995 after meeting legendary rock producer Robert "Mutt" Lange, whom she later married.
Lang produced her 1995 breakout CD The Woman in Me, which topped the country charts for months, and even crossed over to the mainstream charts, peaking at number five.
According to the Governor General's office, Officers of the Order of Canada have demonstrated an outstanding level of talent and service to Canadians.
Members have made an exceptional contribution to Canada or Canadians at a more local or regional level.
The highest level, Companion, goes to those who have demonstrated the highest degree of merit to Canada and humanity on the national or international scene.
Other recipients this year include speed skater Catriona Le May Doan, actress Rita Lafontaine and former British Columbia premier David Barrett.
Established in 1967, the Order of Canada recognizes outstanding achievement and service in various fields. An advisory council chaired by the Chief Justice of Canada makes the recommendations for nominees.
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-Chris