Juno-Winning Canadian Music Legend Bill Bourne Passes, R.I.P.

It's with sadness that we announce that Juno-winning Canadian music legend Bill Bourne passed away on April 16, 2022 after a brave battle with kidney cancer. Our codelences to his family, friends and fans.

Born in Alberta to a musical family, his career would lead him to forming Bourne and MacLeod (with whom he won his first Juno), Tri-Continental and having a successful solo career. He played often in our region.

Media Stories

• CTV Calgary
• Red Deer Advocate

A comment from Lou, our blogger

Bill was an amazing musician I've met quite a few times over the years. He was always full of positivity and light. Bill was definitely a world-class musician who skillfully blended styles from around the globe. His sound was incredible and unique.

Social Media Reaction

Bill's Facebook Page

On behalf of Bill's family, to Bill's music family around the world, it is with sadness and relief, that we announce that Bill passed on this morning.  He was surrounded by family and love and went peacefully and gratefully into whatever is next.  The family requests privacy at this time to mourn his death.  Kind thoughts and good wishes to you all, at this sad time.  He will live on in his beautiful music - Dance and Celebrate!

Linda Luigi (Hamilton Blues Lovers, Ensemble!)

I was so sad to hear that Bill Bourne passed away!  I first met Bill at the Festival of Friends in Hamilton ON, many yeas ago. He was in a band called Bourne and MacLeod at that time.  I was blown away by his lyrics and musical talent! His music helped me get though some tough times at that point in my life. I came out to his shows whenever he performed in my area. The last time I saw him was at a small blues festival in Westdale with Tri-Continental I will forever be grateful for the beautiful gifts of music he shared with everyone that had the privilege to hear him. RIP Bill!

Scott Cook (Musician)

Been thinking about what a huge influence and inspiration he was for me, how valuable his friendship and perspective were, how generous he always was with his time and talents, how many lives he touched in ways he never even knew, and what an honour and a gift it is to live a life in music. He gave us so much. He made us want to be better people. I'm relieved that he's free from pain. Love to all who loved him. Let's dance while we can.

Links: Bourne and MacLeod, More Bourne and MacLeod Stories, Video above courtesy of Bourne and MacLeod - Topic

Links: Tri-Continental, More Tri-Continental Stories, Video above courtesy of Tri-Continental - Topic

Links: Bill Bourne, More Bill Bourne stories, Video above courtesy of Folk Roots and Blues

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