When Environment Canada scientist Tony Turner wrote and performed "Harperman", he certainly didn't expect to be thrust into the spotlight as a political crusader.

The Environment Canada scientist whose anti-Stephen Harper folk song "Harperman" got him suspended from his job is retiring rather than waiting out an investigation into his behaviour.

Hundreds of people participated in a coast-to-coast sing-along Thursday to support the public servant who wrote and performed the Harperman protest song.