While most people are lucky to land one career they love, John Landry enjoys two dream jobs.

The Gander-based search and rescue pilot was once a well-known country singer, nominated for three Juno Awards a dozen years ago.

His song, Bit by Bit, was a huge hit.

But when Landry's music career began to stall, he decided to pursue a lifelong dream.

Landry says his second career as a search and rescue pilot offers plenty of excitement. (CBC)

"I saw a Labrador helicopter performing a rescue off the coast of Gaspé," said Landry, recounting a childhood memory.

"Ever since I saw that Labrador, I wanted to fly helicopters."

Landry successfully completed the rigorous training and now flies Cormorant choppers for the Canadian military.

He said the job is better suited to family life.

"My wife and I were getting married," said Landry. "We were looking at starting a family, which is hard to do if you're 300 days a years on a tour bus," said Landry.

However, he hasn't given up on his musical career. He uses his vacation days to tour, and has the green light from his music label to record a new CD.

He said working on music during his time off suits him fine.

"I don't want to be 50, 60 years old and scrambling for little bar gigs everywhere," said Landry.

"I'm just not interested anymore. Been there, done that. It was phenomenal, a great experience, but I'm just done with it."

He said his latest career offers plenty of excitement.

"No two rescues are ever the same," said Landry, with an eager grin.

"It's an incredible feeling to be a part of that, because the stuff we do as a crew is unparalleled. It's an experience I'll treasure for the rest of my life."