Cape Breton legend and composer of “Rise Again” dies at 81.

Cape Breton artist and actor, Leon Dubinsky, was known for creating the “unofficial anthem” of Cape Breton Island. He passed away on Tuesday January 17, 2023. He was 81.

Dubinsky wrote Rise Again, a song which has become synonymous with the resilience of the people of the Island. The Sydney, Nova Scotia native also played with a popular local band called Buddy and the Boys and was a former Artistic Director of the Cape Breton Summertime Revue.

During the pandemic, the doctors of Voices Rock Medicine performed Dubinsky’s iconic song. The song was a source of strength for them during their time on the frontlines, and also a testament to their resilience. When it was released, the Dubinsky family reached out and gave Voices Rock Medicine a glowing review: “We’re INSPIRED by these female physicians. Thank you for adding your voices to this song in this time. Love from the songwriter and his family -- Leon, Beth, and Ella Dubinsky.”

On behalf of everyone at Voices Rock Canada, we send love and condolences to Beth and Ella Dubinsky.