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Wednesday, April 30, 2025

Throwback Thursday: Mel Brown 1939-2009 R.I.P.

Original Post: March 23, 2009

Updated Post: May 1, 2025



Canadian Blues legend, Mel Brown passed away on March 20, 2009.

Click here for the CBC news story

He  received an honourable mention at a recent session of the House of Commons.

Harold Albrecht member of parliment for Kitchener/Waterloo - Conestoga discussed Mel's influence on the local music scene and his incredible work.

Here is the transcript:
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a man who played a key role in developing Waterloo region's music scene.

In the late 1980s, Mel Brown relocated to Kitchener, Ontario after a long career playing guitar for some of the biggest names in music. Willie Nelson, John Lee Hooker, Etta James, Bobby Bland and Waylon Jennings are just a few.

Mel's arrival put our community on the music map. It was common for blues greats like B.B. King to show up unannounced just to share a stage with Mel.

When blues great Buddy Guy last played in Kitchener, he said, “It's just you, me and B.B. left now”. At the annual Kitchener Blues Festival, talent from around the world looked forward to the private event where Mel played for the musicians and volunteers.

Mel Brown died in St. Mary's Hospital on March 20. He leaves behind his wife and musical partner, Miss Angel, two children, seven grandchildren and tens of thousands of fans.

Today we mourn the loss of Mel Brown, even as we celebrate his life and legacy. To those who loved him, our hearts are extended.

Links: Mel BrownMore Mel Brown Stories, Video above courtesy of Dimitris Koutsiaftis

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