There's an amazing new website that celebrates the incredible music of the Hammer - Hamilton: City Of Music. It's the brainchild of the Hamilton Music Strategy, a volunteer organization dedicated to promoting music in their hometown. We'd like to thank them and congratulate them on a job well done!
The web site features an extensive music directory, event calendar, an email newsletter, playlistsand much much more. You can also submit your band/venue/music-related business for inclusion.
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Hamilton Bluesman Bryon Walpole (aka Backbeat Brian). We don't have any details yet but we will post it here when we hear about it. Our condolences to his family, friends and fans.
Much heartfelt thoughts go to his family during this time of change. Bryon was a light hearted enthusiastic guy who brought that chill and kindness to the work site, stage and friendships. I'm grateful for the memories yet very sad that he has left. Miss ya Buddy'... Until we meet again... Safe travels
The Hamilton music community lost a good man, good friend, and good musician yesterday ... Bryon Walpole. Many memories over the years, sending my love and respect out to his other friends and of course his family.
Gerry Mayor
He was the nicest of guys, great harp player, and all around good person. Bryon you will be missed dearly by all of us. Now it's time for you to run that jam in the sky. Tonight's jam at the Ale House will be in your memory. Rest in peace sir.
Tuesday, August 22, 2017 marks what would have been John Lee Hooker's 100th birthday! The Blues legend passed on June 21, 2001 but he will be an immortal figure in the music world.
To celebrate, here are a few local covers and some music from the man himself!
On August 12, 2017 during the Kitchener Blues Fest, Waterloo's Rob Deyman (of Waterstreet Blues Band plus Silvia Dee and the Boyfriend) received this year's Mel Brown Award. The prize is named after the late, legendary Kitchener Bluesman. It's given to individuals who make a difference in the Blues community. Deymen is also the co-founder and recently retired Executive Director of that popular festival.
"We know there's big awards like Grammys and Junos but being independent artists for our whole career and knowing the struggle, we are especially proud of theses awards and so honored to be listed among such great musicians and songwriters. We are ecstatic that "Cigar Store" has been so well received, thanks so much to blues fans and the the Independent Blues Awards - it means the world to us that folks are listening."
Links: Irish Mythen, More Irish Mythen Stories, Video above courtesy of Lynn Hemeon
This is a great mix of styles and personalities. Many of you will remember Tia and Tommy from their show 5 years ago. They have such an emotional connection that there were audience members with tears rolling down their faces. Last year Tia was shortlisted for an Americana Grammy award!
What else can you say about Lynn Miles other than that she is one of the all time great singer songwriters anywhere. And for her return she brings along one of Canada's best guitarists, Keith Glass!
We have never had a performer before quite like Steve Poltz. He is a wild crazy guy who often makes up songs on the spot. Here's a sample of his true self: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3N8F84RRhlY His song "You Were Meant for Me" (sung by his then girlfriend Jewel) was on the Billboard charts for more than 65 weeks.
Irish Mythen is now from PEI and before that from guess where. She brings a Celtic edge and a powerful voice.
Subscriptions are now available for only $89 + HST. Yes! For all 4 concerts! Hard to believe. Call the Carnegie Gallery at 905-627-4265 to make your purchase or stop by in person. The last two years we have sold out our limit of 100 subscriptions so don't wait too long. Call now! And with thanks to one of our excellent sponsors, Michelle and Bob Edmonds at electracomminications.com, you can check out all this info on our website www.freewheelinconcerts.com At this point we can also sell up to 20 tickets for each individual show.
Enjoy your summer and get ready for our eleventh season of fabulous live acoustic roots music.
You've got until August 31, 2017 to help three local artists win the 2017 Unsigned Only Fandemonium competition! Independent musicians from around the world submit their songs to the contest. There's a separate competition chosen by a panel of judges as well.
The Band on a Couch YouTube series has some incredible artists performing on their show. Recently, a few musical artists from the Niagara region popped up.
We have recognized several amazing musicians within the ages of 13-23 years old and now we have the opportunity to showcase this extraordinary talent in the three day festival!
