The annual Blues With a Feeling fundraiser has always been the Superbowl of local blues. It takes place Saturday June 2, 8pm at the Leander Boat Club in Hamilton.
The event is held to honour the legacy of the late Hamilton Blues legend, King Biscuit Boy. Below are a few videos of the man himself playing with Trickbag, who'll be at the show this year.
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of St. Catharines musician Michael James Piccolo (aks Mike James). He passed on Thursday, May 17, 2018. Our condolences to his family, friends and fans.
Our Dad was a talented musician, and was involved in the singing/songwriting community for many years. That was his passion, along with drumming, diving, golfing, fishing, bowling, and many other things. He never just looked out for himself, he cared for anyone who needed it. He cared for us right until the end. He could be seen strumming his guitar and singing in clubs around Niagara, always looking to jam with other musicians. He was hilarious and we could always count on him to crack a joke- appropriate or not, and he passed that humour down to Mike and I. We didn't really say goodbye, because we'll always have him in our hearts.
Thank you to everyone, especially the Benchmark Team and No Frills, who have sent condolences and support during this time. Thank you to everyone who has sent our Mom support and positive thoughts, we have been spending time together as a family.
The NRMA mourns the passing of former AFM member Michael James Piccolo (aka Mike James). Mike retired in good standing from local 92, Buffalo and local 257, Nashville. Mike was the drummer for rock band Talus for many years. Later he became a successful singer songwriter, performing in the Niagara and Buffalo areas and marketing his songs far afield. His unique soulful performances will be missed by all who heard him. Our condolences go to his loving family and to his many friends.
Canadian Music Week features a number of awards ceremonies and a number of area artists took home some hardware. From Hamilton there was the legendary Teenage Head, Iskwé and Matt Mays (he was born in the Hammer). Elora's Riverfest also received some well-deserved recognition.
Here is a list of local winners. Click the categories to see a complete list of winner. Indie Awards
It is with sadness that we announce the passing of local singer/piano player Michael Keys, who recently lost his brave battle with cancer. We will post more information here as it comes. Our condolences to his family, friends and fans.
There was an outpouring of love for him on social media. Here are a few quotes:
Karen Dowson (his daughter)
He didn’t want anyone to pity or treat him any differently so, that’s why many of you didn’t know he had been fighting stage 4 lung cancer for the past 4 & 1/2 years now. He was a fighter and stubborn but, he went peacefully and I heard the nurses were playing his music until the end. I love that!
Very sad news, Mr. Keys was a great musical friend. I will certainly miss our times on stage and his weekend calls to chat about the state of the local music scene. He was a great advocator for making sure up and coming bands were part of the festival scene in Burlington Ontario, and he fought the city on it on many occasions. He use to book us for shows in the early days including The Burlington Rib Fest and we sure appreciated it. Was there anyone who loved to play more then Michael Keys ? RIP my musical friend
He was a fine musician and was always pushing for more work and better money. His last few years were spent in and out of Juravinski Hospital for Chemo and other torturous undertakings. He fought this horrible disease with class and dignity. His demeanor through this ordeal was amazing. He pulled no punches and was persistant in promoting our Good Friday Jam that he has been part of for over 10 years. I'll miss his Boogie style and left hand attack on the keyboard. Thank you Ron Russell for notifying me of this loss. My heartfelt condolences to Mike's wife Genny and the rest of their family. Rest well, Mike.
Eric Bower (bandmate)
He knew the music business as well as he knew his keyboard and fought hard for the betterment of musicians AND never shied away from providing valuable business advise to operators and promoters. Sure, we can debate and disagree on the way he delivered that message but there was nothing wrong with the message!
A word from Lou, our blogger
I had the honour of meeting Michael quite a few times and was always impressed by his musical skill and dedication. I will miss him greatly.
We'd like to take this opportunity to promote a wonderful Hamilton-themed book by Hamilton Spectator editorial cartoonist Graeme MacKay. We highly recommend it.
