Randy Steele Tribute (June 28, 2009) - Part 4 (Hard Rock Edition)

Links: Forgotten Rebels, More Alice Cooper Covers/Stories



Link: Mighty Masters of None



Links: Westdale Electricians, More Led Zeppelin covers/stories

More from the show

• Part 1
• Part 2
• Part 3

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Jackie Washington News Roundup

Both a musical celebration and memorial service will be held in memory of the late, great Jackie Washington.

On Monday, July 6, 2009 at 7:30 pm, a New-Orleans style band will be joined by many performers at the Jackie Washington Rotary Park on at Wellington and Simcoe. All musicians are invited to join in.

Facebook page for the event.

Music will also be an important part of the memorial service (which is open to the public) to take place Wednesday, July 8, 2009 at 10:30 a.m. at Stewart Memorial Church, 114 John St. N.

Facebook page for the Memorial.

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There were some tears but also a lot of music, fun and laughter at the Jackie Washington tribute on July 6, 2009.

Jackie Washington Rotary Park was packed with friends, family and fans remembering the life of this late, great Hamiltonian. Trains tooted as they passed the park, reminding everyone of Jackie's fascination with locomotives.

Local politician, and radio personality Bob Bratina hosted as poems were read, songs were sung, and stories were told.

Close friend and former manager, Bill Powell spoke of how Jackie's live music helped bring a woman out of catatonic state at a retirement home.

Organizers from various Ontario festivals spoke of the dedication the legend had to their events.

Poet and co-writer of Jackie's biography, James Strecker, read a poem he wrote in memory of his friend. Poet Holmes Hook also followed suit.

Jackie's frequent musical partners, Mose Scarlett and Ken Whiteley played amazing songs as did many other performers.

The evening ended with a big jam session of When the Saints Go Marching In. The performers marched into the crowd as people grabbed tambourines, harmonicas and kazoos to join in. A great sendoff for a wonderful man whose laughter and music brightened many people's lives.

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Over 300 people packed Stewart Memorial Church, on July 8, 2009 to pay their respects the late, legendary bluesman Jackie Washington.

Among the attendees were former Ontario Lieutenant Governor Lincoln Alexander, whom the Spectator quoted saying that there would never be another like him again.

In the article, former manager Bill Powell spoke about how Jackie turned down a lucrative deal opening for Harry Belafonte because it would take him away from his family.

Also, Reverend Francis Chisholm called him "Dr. Washington, specialist in music therapy.

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More stories about Jackie: About Blues, CBC, Toronto Star, Spec Video Interview with Jackie for 89th Birthday, Spec Story about the 2 tributes., Wikipedia entry,

Join the Jackie Washington Facebook Fan Page



Links: Jackie Washington,  More Jackie Washington Stories

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Previous (Videos: Randy Steele Tribute, Part 3) - - - Next ((Videos: Randy Steele Tribute, Part 4)

Randy Steele Tribute (June 28, 2009) - Part 3

Links: Spider Costello, Andrew Aldridge, Greg Brisco, Christopher Clause, Lisa Winn, More Spider Costello Stories.



Links: Jim Witter, More Jim Witter Stories



Links: Kori Pop, More Kori Pop Stories



Links: Blacken'd Red, More Rolling Stones covers/stories

More to come . . . (mainly the hard rock portions of the show)

Performer of the Week: Alex MacDougall (LX)

Alex MacDougall (aka LX) is a talented Hamilton blues veteran. During his career, he's played guitar with such luminaries as Crowbar, the Trailblazers, Harrison Kennedy and many others.

He also released an incredible instrumental solo album called LX.

Currently, he plays the axe for the funk/R&B band Groove Corporation, whose recent CD, Record Prophets, will get you on boogieing on the dance floor.

On top of everything, he's also an oil painter.

Links: MySpace (solo), Blog, Garageband.com, More Groove Corporation Stories

Randy Steele Tribute (June 28, 2009) Part 2

Links: Crawlin' Kingsnakes, More Crawlin' Kingsnakes Stories



Links: Bob Lanois, More Bob Lanois Stories



Links: Rocketship7, More Rolling Stones covers/stories

The above video was from Randy Steele's old band.



Links: Jim Witter, More Jim Witter Stories,  More Beatles Covers/News Stories

More to come . . .

Jackie Washington Gets Front Page Treatment

On the Monday, June 29, 2009 edition of the Hamilton Spectator, the late Jackie Washington received the recognition he deserved. His life and career was the front page story.

Washington passed away Saturday June 27.

Graham Rockingham's touching article (no longer available) included a description of his final moments, Jackie's biography, highlights from his career, and quotes from important Hamilton figures such as Lincoln Alexander, Sheila Copps, and more.


More media stories about Jackie: CHML - London Free Press

The legend's passing has also been felt on the Internet as many musicians and fans have posted their thoughts on different web sites.

Here is a sampling:

Mark McNeil (Spectator Reporter)
"I've never known anyone who had more of a positive outlook on life and so genuinely loved being around people. He was a pleasure to spend time with and he was a treasure of information about the jazz world and local history. We all learned by his example and our lives were enriched by his musicianship."

Alfie Smith
"The world seemed a little brighter with Jackie Washington in it. Your music and the joy you brought to so many people will always live on. I feel lucky to have known you. Rest in peace my friend."

John Crawford (Strange Cargo)
"I am devastated, I just found out that the great Jackie Washington of Hamilton Ontario died yesterday. My heart goes out to the Washington Family. I was deeply moved by Jackie's music and he influenced my music for the better. Thanks Jackie and God bless you.!!!!!!!!"

Fix Our Word (Charity)
"Jackie Washington, a cultural icon who spread joy through his music for more than 80 years, has died. He was funny, sweet and unique."

Lily Sazz (Groove Corporation)
"A Hamilton icon gone. Jackie Washington's memory will live on. Special mention to all of his dear friends who helped him in his final years."

All our Jackie Washington stories.

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Links: Jackie Washington, More Jackie Washington Stories

Randy Steele Tribute (June 28, 2009) Part 1

Links: Lori Yates, Lisa Winn, Alfie Smith, More Lori Yates Stories



Links: Steve Strongman, More Steve Strongman stories



Links: Jim Witter, More Jim Witter Stories, More Beatles Covers/News Stories

More to come . . .

Jackie Washington: 1919-2009 (R.I.P.)

Beloved Hamilton blues legend Jackie Washington has died at the age of 89.

With family and friends by his side, Jackie passed away at Joseph’s Hospital at 1:22 p.m. on Saturday, June 27. The cause of death was complications from a heart attack.

He was an inspiration to generations of musicians and a Canadian treasure.

Links: Jackie Washington, More Jackie Washington Stories

Strange Cargo - Cat N Fiddle (June 26, 2009)

Links: John M. Crawford (Strange Cargo's singer), More John M. Crawford Stories

Performer of the Week: Bob Bryden

Hamilton music legend, Bob Bryden has been recording unique music since 1968. Originally a member of hard rock/psychedelic bands Reign Ghost and Christmas, he has since explored many other styles.

His latest album, Polaroid Verite has an amazing classic rock sound with a bit of folk.

Bob also occasionally teams up with Christopher Clause as the Psychedelic Orange Experiment (P.O.E.)



Links: Bob Bryden, More Bob Bryden Stories

James Anthony Band and Friends@Burlington Sound of Music Festival (June 20, 2009)

More Johnny Cash Covers/Stories

Links: James Anthony, More James Anthony Stories

Ginger St. James' Goodbye Bash

Local musician Ginger St. James is heading to Toronto. On Thursday, June 18, she threw a goodbye party at This Ain't Hollywood with live music, a DJ, dancing, and more.

Lucky attendees also got a chance to pick up a limited edition (available only at that particular show) CD of Ginger's sultry, swinging songs.

Below are a few highlights from the event.







More Jerry Lee Lewis Covers/Stories

The incredible musical newcomer Rebecca MacNeil performed a few songs as songs as well.



Links: Ginger St. James, More Ginger St. James Stories

Performer of the Week: Famous Framus

This Hamilton born and bred musician plays a perfect melding of raw blues and folk. He mixes the delta blues with a powerful folk sound.

His career includes opening for Willie P. Bennett, Ray Materick, Bob Snider, Watermelon Slim, and Arthur Brown.

Framus also has 6 CD's of amazing music to choose from. He recently revealed that another one is in the works.

Links: Famous Framus, More Famous Framus Stories

Colin Lapsley, Chris Wheeler and Dave Simpson - Coach and Lantern (June 13)

Links: Colin Lapsley, More Colin Lapsley Stories
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News Roundup (de Keyzer, Open Mind, Humour)

In his June 2009 newsletter, Hamilton musician Jack De Keyzer discussed a number of upcoming projects, including a new CD and work on other people's discs. Local drummer Danny Lockwood has also joined his band.

From the newsletter:

Hello Folks,

Summer is almost here in Southern Ontario and so is the blues/jazz, music festival season.
Lots of great shows happening. In June we are headlining the Waterfront Blues Fest in Toronto and The Edmunston Blues fest. Markham Rib Fest and Bloor West Village in July and Blue Skies
and Ottawa Blues Cruise in August. All dates and info are listed below and at the web site. Also the weekly Toronto Delta Chelsea show with Jerome Godboo has been extended for the summer. Things are heating up!

I'd like to officially welcome Hamilton Music Award recipient (Jazz CD of the Year) Danny Lockwood to the JdK band. He is rock solid and we are happy to share his talents along with the amazing David McMorrow on organ and Alan Duffy on bass. Saxophonists Chris Murphy and Richard Thornton still join us for some shows too.

I have been happily producing and playing on several upcoming CD releases too. The sophomore CD for Timmins' Shaftmen will be out soon, and I am currently mixing Whitby/Toronto funky blues band band Peter Cohan's Red Hot Blazers. I will be co-producing/mixing Uxbridge based Tattooed Blues Kid's acoustic CD this July too. I'm trying to fit some time in to finish writing tunes for a new CD for myself! We've had lots of requests to record the Bob Dylan song All Along the Watchtower. Here is a YouTube video of us performing it live at the The Phoenix Concert Theatre this past April. Courtesy of my good friend Talkin Blues, Mako Funasaka. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w_r0YIbpnaM The band was awesome. Danny Marks, Paul James, Prakash John, Al Cross and Jordan John. We will be featured in one of Talkin' Blues Podcasts soon.

Have a wonderful summer, we look forward to seeing you!

Cheers,
Jack

Links: Jack de Keyzer, More Jack De Keyzer Stories

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This isn't really news, just a weird video for Beatles or Zeppelin fans.



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Popular Hamilton-based folk duo, Open Mind will be getting back together for a tour next year.

Cynthia Kerr and Chantal Chamberland gained popularity in the early 90s with their hit Give Us Back the Night.

They have toured with Junkhouse, the Barenaked Ladies, Sarah McLachlan, and more.



Links: Open Mind Site , More Open Mind Stories
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Steve Strongman's CD in CHOM FM's Top 20

Local guitar slinger Steve Strongman's new CD, Blues in Color is climbing the charts at CHOM FM in Montreal

From June's Top 20 Blues CD's:

1 Joe Bonamassa - The Ballad of John Henry
2 John Nemeth - Love Me Tonight
3 Damon Fowler - Sugar Shack
4 Eric Clapton & Steve Winwood - Live From Madison Square Garden
5 Susan Tedeschi - Back To the River
6 Michelle Malone - Debris
7 The Mick Fleetwood Blues Band - Blue Again
8 Cyril Neville - Brand New Blues
9Jason Ricci And New Blood - Done With the Devil
10 Shemekia Copeland - Never Going Back
11 Buddy Guy - Skin Deep
12 The Insomniacs - At Least I'm Not With You
13 The Alex Dixon Band - Rising From the Bushes

14 Steve Strongman - Blues In Colour (17) UP 3 from last month!!!!

15 Rick Estrin and The Nightcats - Twisted
16 Monkey Junk - Tiger In Your Tank
17 Nicole Hart - Treasure
18 Joe Louis Walker - Witness to the Blues
19 Blues Delight - Open All Night
20 Rory Block - Blues Walkin' Like a Man

As with any radio station you can make online requests!!

http://www.chom.com/shows/requests

Links: Steve Strongman, More Steve Strongman stories

Performer of the Week: The Smokewagon Blues Band

Raw, unadulterated, old-fashioned, rockin' Blues is what the Smokewagon Blues Band does best.

Plus with 3 CDs of great music, this group of musicians from Hamilton /Burlington and the area have a lot of quality material.

The band have played many festivals with great names such as David Wilcox, David Gogo, Ronnie Hawkins, Jeff Healy and more.

Links: Smoke Wagon Blues Band, More Smoke Wagon Blues Band Stories

Blues With a Feeling - Day 3, Part 2

Lastly, we have the highlight of the afternoon: the Kelly Jay wedding. Raise a toast to the newlyweds!



Links: Kelly Jay, More Crowbar Stories, Trickbag, More Trickbag Stories, More King Biscuit Boy Covers/Stories

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Previous (Blues Cruise w Trickbag & Kelly Jay, Part 1)  - - - Performer of the Week: Smoke Wagon Blues Band)

Blues With a Feeling: Day 3, Part 1 (June 7)

For the Inaugural Blues With a Feeling Cruise, Trickbag was joined by Sonny Del Rio on sax and occasional vocals. Crowbar's Kelly Jay (who got married at the event) rocked out on a few numbers as well.





More Rolling Stones covers/stories



More Louis Jordan covers/stories



More Band covers/news stories

Links: Kelly Jay, More Crowbar Stories, Trickbag, More Trickbag Stories, More King Biscuit Boy Covers/Stories

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Blues With a Feeling: Day Two, Part 2

Links: Stingrays, More Stingrays Stories



Links: Jesse O'Brien, More Jesse O'Brien Stories



Links: Crowbar, More Crowbar Stories
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Blues With a Feeling: Day 2, Part 1 (June 6)

Links: Crowbar, More Crowbar Stories



Links: Danny Lockwood, More Danny Lockwood Stories



Links: Stingrays, More Stingrays Stories



Links: Chris Chambers - More Chris Chambers Stories
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Blues With A Feeling: Day One, Part 2

Links: TNT Bluesmen You Tube - More TNT Bluesmen stories

The event also had some great non-blues musical guests. Thanks for adding variety to the show!



Link: Jabu Jabu



Link: Post Downpour Squalling



Link: King Clancy

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News Roundup (King Biscuit Boy, Bruce Cockburn, Shawn Trotter)

In a special to the Spec on June 6, 2009, King Biscuit Boy's brother, Waller R. Newell, wrote about his legendary sibling's life. Waller offered insights into the music man's career: meeting members of the Beatles, working with Aretha Franklin, and more. He also discussed his brother's intellectual side.

Pictured: Muddy Water (left) with Richard "King Biscuit Boy" Newell

Story no longer available.



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Canadian folk legend, Bruce Cockburn was recognized by Hamilton's own McMaster University on June 8, 2009.

Cockburn joined local glass sculptor Shirley Elford at the ceremony, where she also received the same honour.

Story is no longer available

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Local singer/songwriter, Shawn Trotter is featured on page 13 of the latest issue of Canadian Musician.

The article is mainly about his house concert work.

Click here to read the magazine online.

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Blues With A Feeling: Day One (Corktown - June 5)

A lot of great musical acts played the Corktown Blues and Roots Fest in honour of King Biscuit Boy.

We're still uploading a few more videos from that performance - check back tomorrow for more.

If you can't see the videos below, click here

Quick Links: Previous official vids - YouTube page.



Links: TNT Bluesmen You Tube - More TNT Bluesmen stories



Links: Wayne Janus, More Wayne Janus Stories





Links: Hammertones, More Hammertones Stories
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Halton Blues Society Live CD Still Available - New One on the Way

At the Carrigan Arms on May 30, 2009 the Halton Blues Society hosted an amazing benefit concert where the James Anthony Band were joined on stage by a number of incredible performers. Guests included Hamilton legend Harrison Kennedy, Johnny Max, and more.The event was recorded for an upcoming live CD (lucky attendees will receive a free copy). Extra copies will be sold to raise money for charity.

James Anthony has told us that copies are still available of the previous Halton Blues Society live CD. His band is joined by Miss Jay Baxter, Cheryl Lescom, Chris Murphy and Virgil Scott, and violinist Igor Romanyk. Songs include Black Magic Woman, Who's Been Talking, Summertime and more.

Contact James if you're interested in picking up a copy or pop by the regular Saturday Sermon matinee at the Carrigan Arms. There is always a special guest (see event calendar for details). Proceeds from the sale of the CD's go to charity.

Click here or below to view live video of the recent show.



More CD Releases



Links: James Anthony, More James Anthony Stories

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Performer of the Week: The 905 Band

An extremely popular Burlington R&B/Classic Rock band that regularly pack the house at Boston Manor and other venues. Their repertoire includes the music of the Beatles, Blood Sweat & Tears, Stevie Wonder, Dylan and more.

Members have previously worked with Crowbar, Downchild, Lighthouse, Stampeders, King Biscuit Boy, and Long John Baldrey.

Click here for their web site.

Click here for song samples.



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Previous (News Roundup) - - -  Next (Halton Blues Society Live CDs)

News Roundup (Kelly Jay, Jackie Washington, Koko Taylor)

Not only will the patrons of the first annual Blues with a Feeling cruise be treated to some great music (courtesy of Trickbag and Sonny Del Rio) but they will also be attending a wedding.

Crowbar singer, Kelly Jay (pictured on the left) has announced he will marry on the boat during the sold out event - a tribute to the late Crowbar member, King Biscuit Boy (right)

Links: Crowbar, More Crowbar Stories
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At the end of his June 4, 2009 Spectator column (no longer available), Graham Rockingham reported that local blues legend, Jackie Washington has handed over many of his important memorabilia to McMaster University's archives.

On June 3,2009 at Convoction Hall (McMaster), “A Celebration of the Music of Jackie Washington” was held to to honour the bluesman at the unveiling of the new archives.
The Jackie Washington Collection includes recorded music, paintings, diaries, songbooks, awards, photos, sketches and more.


Links: Jackie Washington, More Jackie Washington Stories

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Koko Taylor recently passed

Click here for the full story

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