Music Listings: August 18-20, 2026

August 18-20, 2026

We try our best to make sure these listings are as accurate as possible. If you spot any errors or omissions, please email us at blueshamilton@gmail.com.

---

Aug 18-20/ Aug 21-23 / Aug 24-30

---

Tuesday, August 18

10am-4pm: Punching In: The Work of Hamilton Music (Exhibit) @ Visitor Experience Centre (Hamilton) (Jan 27-Dec 31, Tue-Sat)

12-2pm: Conor Hart @ Jackson Square, Rooftop (Hamilton) (Aug 17-21)

2pm: Sorry...I'm Not Sorry (Musical) @ Hildebrand Schoolhouse Theatre (St. Jacobs) $? (Jun 3-Aug 22)

2pm: Disney's Frozen (Musical) @ Huron Country Playhouse (Grand Bend) $? (Aug 5-30) 

4-8pm: Wilson Hadfield @ Flat Rock Cellars (Lincoln) 

5pm: Kick N Strings @ Bardo (Hamilton) (Weekly)

6-8pm: Benny Douglas @ Forge BBQ (Ancaster) (Weekly)

7-10pm: Open Mic with Brennagh Burns @ Lukaya Cafe (Hamilton) (Weekly)

7pm: Open Mike  with Neil MacNaughton @ Moonshine Cafe (Oakville) $5 (Weekly)

7-11pm: Live Band Open Jam @ West Side Pizzeria & Sports Bar (St. Catharines) (Weekly)

7pm: Sunset Music Series ft James Anthony & Friends @ Charles Daley Park (Lincoln)

7-10pm: Open Mic @ The Boathouse (Kitchener)(Weekly)

7:30pm: Christopher Clause @ Thirsty Cactus (Dundas) 

8-11pm: Open Jam with the Boom Babiez @ Ale House (Hamilton) (Weekly) 

8:30-11:30pm: Open Mic/Jam @  Barton Touchdown Pub (Hamilton) (Weekly)

---

Wednesday, August 19

10am-4pm: Punching In: The Work of Hamilton Music (Exhibit) @ Visitor Experience Centre (Hamilton) (Jan 27-Dec 31, Tue-Sat)

12-2pm: Conor Hart @ Jackson Square, Rooftop (Hamilton) (Aug 17-21) 

2pm: Sorry...I'm Not Sorry (Musical) @ Hildebrand Schoolhouse Theatre (St. Jacobs) $? (Jun 3-Aug 22)

2pm: Disney's Frozen (Musical) @ Huron Country Playhouse (Grand Bend) $? (Aug 5-30)

4-7pm: Open Mic Hosted by Victor Morgadoo @ Ridgeway Legion (Weekly)

6-9pm: Concerts in the Park ft Bucking Broncos & the Mandevilles @ Montebello Park (St. Catharines)

6-8pm: Doppelganger @ Burnin' Kiln Winery (Norfolk)

6:30-8:30pm: Open Mic Jazz @ Corktown Pub, Downstairs (Hamilton) (Weekly)

6:30-8pm: Welland Supper Market ft Rust & Vinyl @ Market Square

6:30-9:30pm: Mark Wilson & The Way It Is @ Homegrown Hideaway (Port Dover) $?

7-10pm: Greg Brisco & Dan Thomas @ East End Social (Hamilton) (Weekly)

7-8:30pm: Access Storage Concerts presents Alex Pangman And Her Alleycats @ Central Park Bandshell (Burlington) 

7-10pm: Jazz Night with The Brad Krauss Trio and Jim Gay @ Donnelly's Pub (Thorold) 

7pm: Perry and Mark @ Royal Electric (Guelph) (Weekly) 

7-10pm: Open Mic @ The Bullring (Guelph) (Weekly)

7-9pm: Francesca Panetta @ Twilight at Templin (Fergus)

7:30pm: Open Mic with Corey @ The Staircase, Lounge (Hamilton) (3rd Wed)

7:30pm: Adam Ostroser @ Thirsty Cactus (Dundas) (Bi-Weekly) 

7:30pm: In the Country w/ Dave Woods  @ Moonshine Cafe (Oakville) $10

7:30-10:30pm: Ashley MacIsaac @ Irish Harp (Niagara-on-the-Lake) $?*

8-11pm: Open Mic @ The Block Co (Burlington) (Weekly)

8-11pm: Open Mic with Mike Shotton (Pop Machine) @ Gingerman (Oakville) (Weekly)

8-12pm: Open Jam @ Frankie's (Brantford) (Weekly) 

8-11pm: Blues Review ft Jon Knight & Friend @ White Rabbitt (Waterloo) (Weekly)

8pm: Felicia McMinn @ 211Main (Port Dover) (Weekly)

---

Thursday, August 20

---- Before 7:00pm ----

10am-4pm: Punching In: The Work of Hamilton Music (Exhibit) @ Visitor Experience Centre (Hamilton) (Jan 27-Dec 31, Tue-Sat) 

10am-12pm: Breakfast of Champions (Radio Show) w Paul Panchezak (Trickbag) @ 93.3 CFMU or cfmu.ca (Weekly) 

12-2pm: Conor Hart @ Jackson Square, Rooftop (Hamilton) (Aug 17-21) 

1-3pm: Open Ukulele Session @ Moonshine Cafe (Oakville) $5 (Weekly)

1:30-2pm: Ensemble! TV Show Hosted by Dave Rave & Starring The Brant Paker Band, Recorded at Clifford Brewing @ Cable 14 (Hamilton) or live stream on Cable14.com

2pm: Sorry...I'm Not Sorry (Musical) @ Hildebrand Schoolhouse Theatre (St. Jacobs) $? (Jun 3-Aug 22)

2pm: Disney's Frozen (Musical) @ Huron Country Playhouse (Grand Bend) $? (Aug 5-30)

2pm: Nashville Music City @ Hamilton Family Theatre (Cambridge) $? (Aug 13-30)

5-8pm: Thomas Nelson Duo @ 13th Street Winery (St. Catharines)

5:30pm: Jamie Petrie @ Forge BBQ (Ancaster) (Weekly)

5:30-6:30pm: Clara Lux @ Fonthill Bandshell

5:30-9pm: Waterfront Market ft Westwind @ Crystal Beach

6pm: Mykul @ East End Social (Hamilton) 

6pm: Open Jam with Alex Antinori @ Clifford Brewing Co (Hamilton) (1st & 3rd Thu)

6pm: Alfie Smith @ Henry’s on James (Hamilton) (Weekly)

6-9pm: Open Mic @ Crystal Chandelier (Crystal Beach) (Weekly) 

6-9pm: Open Sky Live ft Bella Frances and Poppy Miers @ Elora Centre for the Arts $? 

6-9pm: Lucas Stagg @ Aging Oak (Cambridge) (Weekly)

6-8pm: Turk & The Hobbit (Juneyt & Derek) @ Molly Blooms (Waterloo) (Weekly)

6:30-8:30pm: Music on the Waterfront ft Karen Thornton & Friends @ Pier 8 (Hamilton) FREE 

6:30-9:30pm: James Ferris with Fried Balogna @ The Corktown Pub (Hamilton)(Weekly)

6:30-8:30pm: Open Mic with Mark @ Shawn & Ed Brewing Co (Dundas) FREE 

6:30-9:30pm: John Rogers @ BLK Swan, Brant St. (Burlington)

6:30-9:30pm: James Anthony with Michael Theodore @ Ned Devine's (Milton) 

---- 7:00pm -7:59pm ----

7pm?: Judy & the Noteworthies @ Snooty Fox (Hamilton)

7pm: Classic Country Open Mic with the Country Ramblers @ 447 Wing (Hamilton) (Weekly) 

7pm: Lake Notes ft The Dave Murphy Big Band @ Bronte Park (Oakville) FREE

7-10pm: Ron Hoover @ Teddy's (Grimsby)

7-10pm: Josh Coulter @ Judge & Jester (Grimsby) (Weekly)

7-9pm: Jim Witter @ Fonthill Bandshell

7pm: Blues in the Park ft The Poor Boys @ Fireman's Park (Niagara Falls) 

7-9pm: Daryl Gray @  Doc Magilligan's (Niagara Falls) 

7pm: A Night of Blues & Southern Rock ft Ian Andrews + Derrick Dove & the Peacemakers @ Room 47 (Kitchener) $25adv/$30 door

7pm: The Hydrotonics @ The Boathouse (Kitchener)

7pm: Open Mic @ The Falls Road on Victoria (Kitchener) (Weekly)

7-9pm: Songwriters Round Hosted by Nolan Gibson ft Amber Banks, Rick St. Clair, Nicole Cerminira @ Homegrown Hideaway (Port Dover) $20

7-8:30pm: Summer Lawn Concerts ft The Shrubberies & Friends @ Old Town Hall (Waterford)

7:30pm?: Andrea Anger & Friends @ The Block Co, Edison Room (Burlington) 

7:30-10:30pm: Open Mic with Victor Morgado @ Your Neighbourhood Pizza Co (Beamsville)  (Weekly) 

7:30-10:30pm: Ashley MacIsaac @ Irish Harp (Niagara-on-the-Lake) $?

7:30pm: Sorry...I'm Not Sorry (Musical) @ Hildebrand Schoolhouse Theatre (St. Jacobs) $? (Jun 3-Aug 22)

7:30pm: Disney's Frozen (Musical) @ Huron Country Playhouse (Grand Bend) $? (Aug 5-30)

7:30pm: Nashville Music City @ Hamilton Family Theatre (Cambridge) $? (Aug 13-30)

---- After 8:00pm ----

8pm?: Fast Eyes, Nostalgic Bright Lights and Blanket Shore @ Ooey Gooey's (Hamilton) $?

8pm: Stonehocker @ Moonshine Cafe (Oakville) $10 

8-11pm: Open Mic Night + Jam @ Temple Bar (Oakville) (Weekly) 

8-10pm: Dragan on the Sax @ Spirit in Niagara (Niagara-on-the-Lake) (Weekly)

8pm: Keith Urban @ Fallsview Casino Resort, OLG Stage (Niagara Falls) $?

8pm: Road to Hotel California @ Yuk Yuk's (Niagara Falls)

8-11:30pm: Open Mic with Nora Crete and Derek Bowers @ Elora Legion (Weekly)

8-11pm: Acoustic Melodies ft Lor & Friends @ White Rabbitt (Waterloo) (Weekly)

8:30pm: Open Mic @ Coach & Lantern (Ancaster) (Weekly) 

9pm: 4 Oz Pour @ Fallsview Casino Resort, Lucky's Restaurant (Niagara Falls) 

---

Aug 17-20/ Aug 21-23 / Aug 24-30

---

Support Local Charities

From their website: Food for Life holds a unique niche among Canadian food relief charities in that we focus on redistributing fresh, nutritious food as opposed to traditional food bank fare such as canned goods. Our clients tell us that they are often not able to afford fresh food and that having access to this healthy food allows them to focus on obtaining other life essentials as they work towards no longer relying on our services.

The Hamilton Blues Lovers (HBL) want to showcase a deserving local charity every week.  HBL is not affiliated with these charities nor does it fund raise for them.

---

---

Bill Durst Wins 2026 Mel Brown Award

Stratford Bluesman Bill Durst the 2026 winner of the Mel Brown Blues Award. It is named in honour of the late, legendary Kitchener musician.

From the Kitchener Blues Festival Facebook page:

MAY 12TH 2021 – MEL BROWN BLUES AWARD

Bill Durst, our 2026 winner of the Mel Brown Award, and always an audience favourite, is a Canadian Blues- Rock- Roots guitarist, singer, songwriter, entertainer who has written and recorded over 125 songs on 12 albums with 7 national radio chart hits. Bill has opened for or shared the stage with Rush, Aerosmith, BTO, Yardbirds, John Mayall, Savoy Brown, Bobby Rush, Little Feat, George Thorogood, Bad Company, Loverboy, Edgar Winter Group, Jeff Healey, Burton Cummings, Johnny Winter, Rick Derringer, Jack de Keyser, April Wine, L.A. Guns, David Wilcox, Bob Seger, Sly And The Family Stone and more. Mr. Durst has toured across North America and in Europe and tours extensively in Canada.

As a kid growing up in Wingham and then London, Ontario (which is halfway between Toronto and Detroit), Bill was heavily influenced by Motown, R&B, Toronto Psychedelic Soul music as well as the British Blues Invasion and Jimi Hendrix.

Bill’s entrance on the national/international stage was with his classic rock band Thundermug formed from London R&B groups in 1969. By the summer of 1972 the band had a number one hit and a fan following in Eastern Canada. The band went on to record a total of 5 albums, (3 albums in the early/mid 1970s and two CDs in the mid 1990s) releasing records in the US and Europe. Bill put out his first two solo releases in the mid eighties but it wasn’t until the early 2000s that Durst got some real career momentum. In 2004 he proclaimed his intention to start up a “little, fuzzy, psychedelic blues band” and since then Bill and his co-writer Joe DeAngelis have produced 5 full length CDs: The Wharncliffe Sessions (’05), The Great Willy Mammoth (’09), Bill Durst Live (‘12) and Hard And Heavy (’13) Good Good Lovin ('15).

Links: Bill Durst, More Bill Durst Stories, Video above courtesy of Bill Durst - Topic

Previous Years' Winners

• 2025: Bruce Hall (Grand River Blues Society)
• 2024: Rob Barkshire (Kitchener Blues Festival) & Matt Minglewood
• 2023: Donnie Walsh (Downchild)
• 2022: David Wilcox

More Mel Brown Award Stories

---

Previous (New Dunlop Brothers Album)

Expressive Vocals & Great Songwriting on Dunlop Brothers Album

Mini-Review: Expressive vocals and great songwriting permeate the latest relase from Hamilton's Dunlop Brothers. Vol. 2 picks up where they left off on their splendid debut. It's roots meets alternative wrapped in striking production.

Available on Bandcamp, Spotify, Apple Music

Personnel

• Matt Dunlop - Guitars, Vocals
• Justin Dunlop - Vocals, Bass, Guitars, Mandolin, Keyboard
• Alan Zemaitis - Keyboards, Organ, Wurlitzer, Rhodes & Bass Rhodes
• Caleb Moroz - Drums & Percussion
• Mike Scime - Drums
• Jill Harris - Vocals

Links: Dunlop Brothers, More Dunlop Brothers Stories, Album above courtesy of Bandcamp

---

Previous (Throwback Thursday - Festival of Friends 2009)

Please Support Our Wonderful Sponsors

---

---

Please Support Our Wonderful Sponsors

To enable you to make good housing decisions call us or email us: www.judymarsales.com

PROUD SUPPORTER OF HAMILTON BLUES LOVERS

---

---

Throwback Thursday - Festival of Friends 2009

From August 7, 2009 Hamilton Spectator

Original Posts: August 9, 10, 14, 2009

Merged Post: August 13, 2026

Here's a look at the 2009 Festival of Friends.

Click here to read the August 6 Hamilton Spectator story

August 8, 2009

Lovers & Other Strangers Workshop

• Lowest Lanes (ft Mark McNeil) - Jolene
• Alfie Smith - Buckshot Blues
• Carly-Jo - Booty Call
• Carly Jo & Friends - The Truth No. 2

Good Lovin' Gone Bad Workshop

• Jace Martin
• Steven Elmo Murphy Band
• Steve Sinnicks
• Top Dead Centre
• Everyone - Some Kinda Wonderful

Guinness Book of World Records Attempt

Click pictures to make them larger

Guitars were raised high after a performance of Deep Purple's Smoke on the Water at the Festival of Friends on August 8, 2009. Hamilton musician Christopher Charles and his band were joined by a legion of guitarists scattered across Gage Park.

This was an attempt to enter the Guinness Book of World Records for most guitars in a jam performance.

According to the Spectator, the record wasn't broken (we were 77 short) but we did beat Toronto's recent attempt)

Below is a video of the event. We apologize for the extreme close-ups (the camera was stuck on zoom)

Links: Deep Purple, More Deep Purple Covers/Stories, Video above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers

August 9, 2009 

Memories of Jackie Washington Workshop

• Alfie Smith - God Bless the Child
• Brenda Lewis - Honeysuckle Rose
• Donna Creighton - Sweet Cheeks
• Paul Langille - Smile
• Joan Crabtree - Put Me First
• Brian Blain - St. James Infirmary
• Dave Kidney - Jackie Washington

Leon Redbone Videos From mumblemod

---

Previous (Winners of the London Music Awards) - - - Next (New Dunlop Brothers Album)

Please Support Local Charities

---

---

Please Support Local Charities

From their website: Our objective is to accumulate capital, earn investment income and use this income to make charitable donations in Norfolk County.

The Hamilton Blues Lovers (HBL) want to showcase a deserving local charity every week.  HBL is not affiliated with these charities nor does it fund raise for them.

---

---

Winners of the 2026 Forest City London Music Awards

The 2026 Forest City London Music Awards were handed out as part of London Music Week - June 6 to 14.

CONGRATS EVERYONE!

Below is a complete list of winners. Click the name to see the award announcement.

• PRODUCER/ENGINEER:  Iain McNally, Producer/Engineer: Chris Strei (Brantford) - One Day at a Time
  
  
  
  Links: Chris Strei, More Chris Strei Stories, Video above courtesy of Chris Strei
  
  
• LONDON MUSIC HALL OF FAME: Teddy Leonard (of Niagara's Mighty Duck Blues Band, Hogtown AllStars, Fathead)
• AFRO CARIBIANNA: King Willie
• BLUES: Smokes Like Lightning
• CLASSICAL INSTRUMENTAL (GROUP): Brass Roots New Horizons Band
• CLASSICAL INSTRUMENTAL (SOLO): Yanet Campbell-Secades, Violin
• CLASSICAL VOCAL (SOLO): Felix Stueckmann
• CLASSICAL VOCAL (CHOIR OR GROUP): London Gospel Collective
• CLUB DJ: DJ Calderon
• CONTEMPORARY SINGER SONGWRITER: Anne Moniz
• CONTRIBUTOR: Jeff Bailkowski (Community Builder)
• COUNTRY: Tyler DeLargie
• COVER BAND: The Strands
• ELECTRONIC: Mat Lunnen
• FAN FAVOURITE: Lindsey & The Lonelies
• FANTASY BAND: Vocals – Amanda Movio, Bass – Ryan Spong, Guitar – Randy Hicks, Drums – Cameron Hand, Horns – Alexa Brown, Strings – Tara Dunphy, Keyboards – Nathan Nykor
• FOLK ROOTS: Jesse Grandmont & Brian Barber
• HIPHOP: Cronica
• JAZZ VOCAL (SOLO or GROUP): Nicole Tan
• JAZZ INSTRUMENTAL (SOLO or GROUP): Seth McNall Sextet
• LATIN: Sofi R
• LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT: Jones Family, Fred Smith
• LIVE MUSIC VENUE: The Bunker Performance Lounge (Stratford)
• METAL: Crowning Kings
• MUSIC VIDEO: Sophia Korz - Pretty People
  
  
  
  Links: Sophia Korz, Video above courtesy of Sophia Korz
  
  
• ONTARIO INDIE RECORDING ARTIST: Lorraine Klaasen
• POP: Justin Maki
• PUNK: Full Throttle
• ROCK: Texas King
• SUPER FAN: Brenda Heywood
• TRIBUTE ARTIST: AXL/DC: Guns N’ Roses and AC/DC
• WORLD MUSIC: Rachel McGarry
• YOUTH AWARD: Can’t Drive Yet - H.B. Beal Secondary School

Links: London Music Awards, More London Music Awards Stories

---

Previous (Cat Day Videos) - - - Next (Throwback Thursday - Festival of Friends 2009)

International Cat Day Videos by Trevor Strong & the Arrogant Worms

Links: Arrogant Worms, More Arrogant Worms Stories, Video above courtesy of Arrogant Worms - Topic

Links: Trevor Strong, Album above courtesy of Trevor Strong - Topic

More Cat Day Videos

---

Previous  (New Rob Lamothe Live Album) - - - Next (Winners of the London Music Awards)

Rob Lamothe's Unforgettable Voice & Inspired Songwriting Take Centre Stage on New Live Album

Mini-Review: I've you've had the pleasure of listening to the incredible local singer/songwriter Rob Lamothe, you know about his unforgettable voice and inspired songwriting. His recent album, Live at St. Pancras Old Church lays everything bare. With mainly his voice and an acoustic guitar, Rob's vocals and lyrics take centre stage and have room to breathe. His daughter Rose Lamothe also lends her equally unique voice to two tracks. 

Available on Bandcamp, Spotify, Amazon Music, Apple Music

Links: Album above courtesy of Bandcamp

---

Previous (Throwback Thursday - Acoustics Album Get Noticed) - - - Next (Cat Day Videos)

Please Support Our Wonderful Sponsors

---

---

Please Support Our Wonderful Sponsors

They sell instruments, do repairs and offer lessons. 

This wonderful store does a lot to help to local music community.

---

---

Throwback Thursday - The Acoustics 'Forever and a Day' Gets Noticed (2009)

Original post: January 24, 2009

Updated: August 6, 2026

Forever and a Day, the instrumental album by Hamilton folk/roots group, the Acoustics, got a bit of notice in 2009

From their blog entry:

It is with great pride and joy to share the news that The Acoustics have just been nominated for a JPF Music Award for World Album of the year 2009, for our CD, 

JPF (Just Plain Folks Music Organization) is a community of over 51,500 Songwriters, Recording Artists and Music Industry Professionals — and host to the world's largest independent music awards

The Acoustics, the only Canadian artists to be nominated in this category. Not bad, eh!!!

Hoping for the best!

Ciao for now

Alfonso

Update from their Myspace Blog

Unfortunately we did not win the award for World Album of the year. However for what it’s worth we came in 2nd place! Second out of ten nominees is not bad.

Links: Acoustics, More Acoustics Stories, Album above courtesy of The Acoustics - Topic

---

Previous (Uncommon Instrument Awareness Day Videos) - - - Next (New Rob Lamothe Live Album)

Please Support Local Charities

---

---

Please Support Local Charities

The Hamilton Blues Lovers (HBL) want to showcase a deserving local charity every week.  HBL is not affiliated with these charities nor does it fund raise for them.

---

---

Uncommon Instrument Awareness Day Videos by the Vaudevillian

Update of 2020 Post 

Every July 31, we celebrate Uncommon Instrument Awareness Day.









Links: The Vaudevillian, More Vaudevillian Stories, Videos above courtesy of The Vaudevillian

Click here for more Uncommon Instrument Videos

---

Previous (Throwback Thursday: Steve Strongman in 2009) - - - Next (Throwback Thursday - The Acoustics Album Get Noticed)

Please Support Our Wonderful Sponsors

---

---

Please Support Our Wonderful Sponsors

Ken Wallis is an amazing local music supporter. He has a great radio show

Tuesdays: 4-5:30pm: Blues Source Canada w Ken Wallis @ INDI 101.5 FM 

Now on-demand at Mixcloud

---

---

Please Support Local Charities

---

---

Please Support Local Charities

From their website: The Stephen Lewis Foundation launched the Grandmothers to Grandmothers Campaign in March 2006, in response to the emerging crisis faced by African grandmothers as they struggled to care for millions of children orphaned by AIDS. The Campaign aims to raise awareness, build solidarity and mobilize support in Canada for Africa’s grandmothers.

The Hamilton Blues Lovers (HBL) want to showcase a deserving local charity every week.  HBL is not affiliated with these charities nor does it fund raise for them.

---

---

Please Support Our Wonderful Sponsors

---

---

Please Support Our Wonderful Sponsors

NEED COMPUTER HELP? Try First Choice Computer Solutions. 

Their service is friendly and reliable. In person and remote assistance available.

---

---

Throwback Thursday: Steve Strongman in 2009

From March 19, 2009 edition of the Hamilton Spectator.

Click above to enlarge

Original posts: January 24, 2009, October 10, 2009

Updated Post: July 23, 2026

Hamilton Bluesman Steve Strongman had a great year in 2009

Here are a few highlights

• Released album, Blues in Color 
• The album Blues in Color was the only Canadian disc to enter Roots Music Report's Top 20 list for the week of July 10, 2026
• Opened for Buddy Guy
• Was the surprise opening act for legend Joe Cocker.
• Up for a Maple Blues Award
• Started recording Live DVD in West Lincoln Barn
• Won a Hamilton Music Award

Links: Steve Strongman, More Steve Strongman stories

---

Previous (New Johnny Max Band Album) - - -  (Uncommon Instrument Awareness Day Videos)

Please Support the Hamilton Blues Lovers

---

---

Please Support the Hamilton Blues Lovers

We are a not for profit organization (but not a registered charity) . Thank you for your tip.

---

Johnny Max & His So-Called Friends is a Remarkable Album

Mini-Review: Toronto's Johnny Max surrounds himself with oodles of talented artists from the Hamilton & Niagara areas for his latest remarkable album. Johnny Max & His So-Called Friends, is packed with a Blues sounds:  boogie-woogie, jazz, soul, funk, country-flavours, and more. This is all blended in to Johnny's trademark down to earth stylings and lyrics.

Available on Bandcamp, Spotify, Amazon Music

Main Band

• Johnny Max - Lead Vocals, Producer
• Jim Casson - Drums & Percussion, Producer
• Mitch Lewis - Guitars
• Dylan Wickens - Guitars
• Steve Goldberger - Bass
• Bill Evans - Keyboards

Guests

• Neil Chapman - Guitar 
• Jay Burr - Tuba
• Quisha Wint - Vocals
• Suzie Vinnick - Vocals
• Wayne Deadder - Guitars & Vocals
• Russ Boswell - Bass
• Dave Dunlop - Trumpet
• Sabine Casson - Vocals 
• Nan McAneney  - Spoken Voice

Links: Johnny Max, More Johnny Max Stories, Album above courtesy of Bandcamp

---

Previous (Caissie Levy Earns Tony Award) - - - Next (Throwback Thursday: Steve Strongman in 2009)

Hamilton's Caissie Levy Earns Tony Award

The was only a bit of Canadian content at the winner's circle for the 2026 Tony Awards ceremony. On Sunday June 7, 2026, Hamilton's Caissie Levy won for her work in the musical, Ragtime. That wonderul show also took home some hardware.

CONGRATS EVERYONE!

Below is a complete list of winners. 

• Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Musical: Caissie Levy from Hamilton (Ragtime)
  
  
  
  Links: Caissie Levy, More Caissie Levy Stories, Video above courtesy of The Tony Awards

• Best Revival of a Musical: Ragtime (ft Hamilton's Caissie Levy)
• Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Musical: Joshua Henry (Ragtime)
• Best Sound Design of a Musical: Kai Harada (Ragtime) 
• Best Book of a Musical: Schmigadoon!
• Best Costume Design of a Musical: Qween Jean (Cats: The Jellicle Ball)  
• Best Musical: Schmigadoon!
• Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Musical: Ali Louis Bourzgui (The Lost Boys)
• Best Sound Design of a Play: Mikaal Sulaiman (Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman)
• Best Choreography: Omari Wiles and Arturo Lyons (Cats: The Jellicle Ball) 
• Best Costume Design of a Play: Jeff Mahshie (Fallen Angels) 
• Best Direction of a Musical: Zhailon Levingston and Bill Rauch (Cats: The Jellicle Ball)
• Best Direction of a Play: Joe Mantello (Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman)
• Best Lighting Design of a Musical: Jen Schriever and Michael Arden (The Lost Boys) 
• Best Lighting Design of a Play: Jack Knowles (Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman) 
• Best Orchestrations: Doug Besterman and Mike Morris (Schmigadoon!)
• Best Original Score (Music and/or Lyrics) Written for the Theatre: Schmigadoon!
• Best Performance by an Actor in a Featured Role in a Play: Alden Ehrenreich (Becky Shaw)
• Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role in a Play: John Lithgow (Giant)
• Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Musical: Shoshana Bean (The Lost Boys)
• Best Performance by an Actress in a Featured Role in a Play: Laurie Metcalf (Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman)
• Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role in a Play: Lesley Manville (Oedipus)
• Best Play: Liberation
• Best Revival of a Play: Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman
• Best Scenic Design of a Musical: Dane Laffrey (The Lost Boys)
• Best Scenic Design of a Play: Chloe Lamford (Arthur Miller's Death of a Salesman)
• Isabelle Stevenson Tony Award: Mary-Mitchell Campbell
• Regional Theatre Award: American Players Theatre
• Special Tony Award: League of Resident Theatres (LORT)
• Special Tony Award for Lifetime Achievement in the Theatre: André Bishop/James Lapine/Jules Fisher
• Tony Honors for Excellence in the Theatre: 1/52 Project/Jake Bell/Kenn Lubin/Loren Plotkin

Link: The Tony Awards, More Tony Awards Stories

---

Previous (Throwback Thursday: Melissa Bel Debut Album + EP) - - - Next (New Johnny Max Band Album)

Throwback Thursday: Melissa Bel Debut Album + EP (2009)

Original Post: September 15, 2009 & July 19, 2009

Updated Post: July 16, 2026

Melissa Bel Debut: Brave

In September 2009, Burlington's Melissa Bel released her debut album, Brave.

Melissa's incredible, smooth voice is used to great effect as she travels through blues, pop, soul, rock, and folk with ease.

Special notes:

• All online versions of the album do not contain the song You Don't Fool Me, which was on the CD
• The CD of the album is now hard to find

Available on: Spotify, YouTube, Apple Music

Album above courtesy of Melissa Bel

-----------

Melissa Bel: Self Titled EP

There's a little bit of everything on this EP. Bluesier numbers such as Distance (co-written with Ray Lyell) and He'll Never be You share the spotlight with soulful pop-folk gems like We All Lose Our Way, I Hate to Say it and Tragedy in Disguise. Melissa ends this amazing collection with a smooth version of Smokey Robinson's You've Really Got a Hold On Me. 

Personnel (highlights): 

• Sean Ashby (guitar)
• Mark McIntyre (bass)
• Danny Lockwood & Craig Lapsley (drums)
• Jesse O'Brien & Bill King (piano)

Special notes:

• Songs from this EP that also appeared on the album Brave were remixed, remastered or rerecorded for the later recording
• You've Really Got a Hold On Me is the only song from the EP that wasn't on also on her debut album.
• The EP is not available online 
• The CD is hard to find.

Links: Melissa Bel, More Melissa-Bel stories, More Releases

---

Previous (New Kyle Pacey EP) - - - Next (Caissie Levy Earns Tony Award)

Please Support Local Charities

From their site: Working to make a significant impact in the quality of life of Canada’s ill & injured CAF members, Veterans, First Responders, and their families.

The Hamilton Blues Lovers (HBL) want to showcase a deserving local charity every week.  HBL is not affiliated with these charities nor does it fund raise for them.

---

Hamilton's Kyle Pacey Weaves Innovative Soundscapes & Emotional Storytelling on New EP

Mini-Review: The world is constantly chaging and Hamilton's Kyle Pacey reflects that in his poignant new EP, After the Fall. With genre-blending precision, Kyle weaves between pessimism, optimism, hope and disaster. Emotional storytelling and innovative sonic landscapes take listeners on an almost philosophical journey.

Personnel

• Kyle Pacey (guitar, vocals)
• Kevin Christoff & Gordon Hall (bass)
• Michael Sloski, Johnny Winiarz, Bruno Farrugia (drums)
• Michael Birthelmer (acoustic guitar)
• Ed Roth (keyboards)

Available on: Bandcamp, Spotify, Apple Music

Links: Kyle Pacey, More Kyle Pacey Stories, More Releases, Album courtesy of Bandcamp

---

Previous (Tommy Hunter Passes) - - - Next (Throwback Thursday: Melissa Bel Debut Album + EP)

Tommy Hunter Was Canada’s Country Gentleman, RIP

"Canada’s Country Gentleman," Tommy Hunter passed away on July 2, 2026 in London, Ontario. Our condolences to his family friends and fans.

He was an essential part of Canada's Country Music scene thanks, in part, to The Tommy Hunter Show, his long-running radio & TV program.

Here is the official obituary:

HUNTER, Thomas (Tommy) James, CM, OOnt

March 20, 1937 – July 2, 2026

Thomas (Tommy) James Hunter passed away peacefully at his home in London, Ontario on Thursday, July 2, 2026, in his 90th year.

He was the beloved son of the late Edith and James Hunter. Tommy was the loving father of Jeff, Greg, and Mark. He will be deeply missed by his grandchildren, Tyler, Karli, Bradley, and Nicole, as well as his great-grandchild, Mason. Tommy is also fondly remembered by his longtime business manager and friend, Brian Edwards, and his wife Barbara.

Known all over the world as "Canada’s Country Gentleman," Tommy was a legendary figure in music and broadcasting. For 27 consecutive years, The Tommy Hunter Show welcomed millions into their living rooms on CBC Television in Canada, and for 10 years, it broadcast across the United States on The Nashville Network. A proud member of the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, Tommy was also honored as a Member of the Order of Canada and the Order of Ontario for his immense contributions to Canadian culture.

The family wish to thank the staff of University Hospital, Parkwood Hospital, Fox Hollow, and McGarrell Place for their care and compassion. Visitation will take place at Needham Funeral Service, 520 Dundas Street, London, Ontario on July 9, 2026, from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm, and again on July 9, 2026, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm. A Private Family Funeral Service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers donations to the Humane Society of London & Middlesex would be appreciated.

Media Links

• CBC News Video 
• CTV News Video
• Billboard Canada
• MSN
• Exclaim!

 Social Media Reaction

Brad Hails (Killin' Time Band)

RIP Tommy Hunter, I was fortunate enough to spend some time on the road with you and my grandfather when I was a kid and you both showed me some great memories. Tommy lent me a big ol’ country acoustic guitar to use for my first lessons and actually gave me a 57 fender deluxe amp and some microphones when my grandfather and I helped you move many many years ago. Foolishly I sold that amp when I was a teenager and will always regret it. Last time I saw you was at my grandfathers funeral. Some of those times I spent with the both of you will stay with me for life and taught me lessons I still use today in my own career.

Juno Awards

It is with great sadness that we acknowledge the passing of Canadian country music legend Tommy Hunter. Over a career spanning more than six decades, Tommy became one of the country's most recognizable entertainers. As the beloved host of The Tommy Hunter Show, he welcomed generations of Canadians into country music while providing a national stage for both established and emerging artists.

A pioneering figure in Canada's music industry, Tommy played a defining role in the growth of Canadian country music. A three-time recipient of the RPM Gold Leaf Awards, the forerunner to today's JUNO Awards, he was recognized early for his outstanding contributions to Canadian music and remained a steadfast champion of Canadian artists throughout his career.

Tommy's contributions to Canadian music will continue to be felt for generations to come. We extend our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, colleagues, and all those whose lives were touched by his music and remarkable career.

Links: Tommy Hunter, Video above courtesy of Canadian Cult Classics

Links: Lori Yates, More Lori Yates Stories, Video above courtesy of Lori Yates Authorized Content

---

Previous (Living Blues Award Winners) - - - Next (New Kyle Pacey EP)