SURREY - Classic-rock singer Paul Rodgers became a Canadian citizen in Surrey Friday morning.

The Bad Company and one-time Queen vocalist was among dozens of people given Canadian citizenship during an hour-long ceremony at the Central City tower.

Reading from a lyric sheet, Rodgers led attendees in a version of 'O Canada' during the event.

"To be honest with you, I know most of the words (to O Canada), and I think I can get by," Rodgers told the Now before he sang. "I don't know the English national anthem too well, either. I'll be doing my own version (laughs)."

Rodgers, who lives with his wife, Cynthia, at homes in the Crescent Beach area of Surrey and in Summerland, has called Canada home for some 14 years.

"It may not be my native land, but Canada is surely now my home," he said. "

"While I'll always be an Englishman, Canada has given me so much for which I am grateful: My beautiful wife, a former Miss Canada, a new extended family and the chance to be truly free in a country that, with its quiet strength, combines the best of so many worlds. I am proud to be a Canuck."

Rogers' clear, husky voice has graced dozens of hit rock songs, including Bad Company's "Feel Like Making Love" and "Can't Get Enough," and Free's "All Right Now." In the late 1990s, Rodgers toured and recorded with the band Queen.

tzillich@thenownewspaper.com