Kevan Staples, co-founder of alt-rock band Rough Trade, dead at 74

Kevan Staples, the co-founder of the legendary Toronto rock band Rough Trade, has passed away at the age of 74. Staples, along with band co-founder Carole Pope, was responsible for writing some of the band’s most iconic songs, including the risque breakout hit “High School Confidential,” as well as “Birds of a Feather” and “All Touch.”

Pope announced Staples’ death on social media, describing him as a “bright light that will burn forever.” The band, known for pushing boundaries with their music, won four Juno Awards in the 1980s and was inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2023.

Staples and Pope’s friendship spanned decades, dating back to the late 1960s. They formed Rough Trade in 1974, after previously performing together in the Bullwhip Brothers. The band gained a following by playing at small clubs in Toronto and opening for bands like Roxy Music and the Tubes.

Rough Trade’s music challenged conventions and left a lasting impact on Canada’s cultural landscape. They released several studio albums, beginning with “Avoid Freud” in 1980, and gained attention for their provocative lyrics and frank depictions of sexuality. Staples and Pope were able to connect with audiences through songs like “Weapons,” “Shaking the Foundations,” and “Crimes of Passion.”

The band reached new heights when they opened for David Bowie on his 1983 Serious Moonlight tour, playing to some of their largest audiences ever. Despite their success, Rough Trade disbanded in 1986, citing financial concerns and a desire to focus on their music rather than their reputation.

Staples and Pope reunited for shows in 2001 and continued to perform sporadically over the years. Staples also delved into scoring movies and television shows, showcasing his talent beyond the rock music scene. Reflecting on his career, Staples once said, “I think we did our part in shaking up the Canadian industry.”

The legacy of Kevan Staples and Rough Trade lives on through their music and the impact they had on the Canadian music scene. Staples’ contributions to the band and the industry as a whole will be remembered by fans and fellow musicians alike. May he rest in peace.