Showing posts with label Greg Brisco. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Greg Brisco. Show all posts

Sunday, May 31, 2026

Kicking Off Black Music Month! Videos by LMT Connection, Colina Phillips, LTtheMonk

Update of 2021 Post


To start up Black Music Month, we'd like to showcase our local afro-Canadian music community!







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Thursday, February 26, 2026

Winners of the 30th Reverend John C. Holland Awards

The Reverend John C Holland Awards have always celebrated excellence in Hamilton’s Black community. This year was no different at the ceremony on February 15, 2026 at LiUNA Station.

Below is the complete list of winners:

Sankofa Pearl Bursary ($500)

  • Secondary student recipients: Alyvea Riley, Aya Adam, Barakat Adedeji, Chizaram Emekalam, Dante James Hillen, D’Avonté Ralph, Elijah Sterling King, Ella Poku, Georgia Walker, Grace Mumo Mwalyo, Ibiye Naomi Davids, Ife Alake, Israela Ngatched Ngania, Jayden Millar Edwards, Lennex Maley, Naiyah Reece, Najma Hassan, Nasra Bain, Nina Borcea-Richardson, Oluwalani Adedeji, Omonigho Okpere, Sydney Oyewumi, Tinuade Omoregie and Zachariah Adjodia Persaud
  • Post-secondary student recipients: David Feboke, Emnet Goitom, Isis Seaton, Jonathan Roswell, Kaylinda Mupesse, KJ Gilling, Monae McKenzie and Oluwanifemi Ogundare
  • Mature student recipients: Idongesit Ita Ekanem

Sankofa Pearl Scholarship ($3,000)

  • Secondary student recipients: Aya Adam, Barakat Adedeji, Dante James Hillen and Israela Ngatched Ngania
  • Post-secondary student recipient: Emnet Goitom
Below is the Hamilton Spectator article about the event. Click the picture to increase the size.




Video above courtesy of CHCH News

Previous (Throwback Thursday: 175th Anniversary Celebration ft Braithwaite & Whiteley + John Ellison) - - - Next (New Dave Rave  & the Governors Album)
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Friday, March 28, 2025

Happy Piano Day ft Greg Brisco










Links: Greg Brisco, More Greg Brisco Stories, Videos above courtesy of Robert Manley (there's more from this performance there)

 More Piano Day Vidoes
Previous  ('Quirky Country Music Song Titles' Day Videos) - - - Next (2025 Juno Winners)
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Wednesday, March 27, 2024

Happy Piano Day (Greg Brisco, Michael Fonfara and Jesse O'Brien, Lily Sazz, Kelly Jay)

Update of 2018 post 




Links: Greg Brisco, More Greg Brisco Stories, Old Winos, Video above courtesy of Marty Murray



Links: Jesse O'Brien, More Jesse O'Brien Stories, Michael Fonfara, Video above courtesy of randallstaffordcook



Links: Lily Sazz, More Lily Sazz Stories, Cootes Paradise, More Cootes Paradise Stories, Video above courtesy of Lily Sazz



Links: More Kelly Jay Stories, Video above courtesy of No. 1 West

More Piano Day Videos
Previous (Sarah Vaughan's 100th Birthday) - - - Next (Easter Videos)
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Friday, June 17, 2022

Big Rude Jake Had a Heart of Gold and a Sharp Wit - R.I.P.


It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Jake Hiebert aka Big Rude Juke. He unfortunatey passed away on June 16, 2022 after a brave battle with cancer. Our condolences to his family, friends and fans.

Jake had an amazing, long career which took him around the world, melding the styles of jazz, rock, punk and blues. He was a true original.

A word from Lou, our blogger:
I was lucky enough to see Jake quite a number of times and he was constantly full of life and had a smile on his face. You could see Jake loved what he did and was go great it. His lyrics were sharp and witty and his guitar skills were always world-class. I will miss him terribly. 
Social Media Reaction

He was very kind to me and invited me into his home when he first moved to Hamilton.  I was very lucky and honored to play with such an amazing talent.  He was in a league of players of their own.  My heart goes out to the family and the family of musicians and fans he affected.   Rest well my friend.

Ginger St. James

Dear Big Rude Jake: I'd say I have no words but there are plenty. Until I can muster a sentence up without crying i can peep out that I love you, respect you and will always remember you. Maybe that'll do for now. Every lightning strike and thunder crash I'll know that its you and your pals gettin' the band warmed up in heaven - taunting us earthly folks of the party that awaits. I'll be on my best behavior (mostly) so I can meet you up there one day .  the good Lord raised His hand and has taken you home. We can find comfort in knowing you are at rest. Ladies and Gentleman Big Rude Jake. Whatta guy! 

Raoul Bhaneja

Jake dreamed big and rode a wave that inspired many of us who loved swing, jump, early jazz and blues to make Toronto a home for our music. 

JakeFest in his honour last week was filled with love for the man and his tunes that uplifted us all. 

One of the best nights of music I’ve experienced in Toronto. A fitting evening to honour an important member of our musical family.  

Richard Underhill (Shuffle Demons)

A loving farewell to Big Rude Jake Hiebert, an erudite and dapper man with a heart of gold and a wit sharper than a Bowery barber's razor. Thank for the impossibly witty lyrics, the soulful singing and the meaningful music that touched everyone in the bar and let them dream that they too were living the bohemian life of a crooning troubadour. I'm so lucky to have played and chatted, noshed and laughed with such a beautiful man. Sincere and deep condolences to his family, friends, colleagues and fans. We've lost a great one and somehow we'll have to soldier on without him. He'd want you to Live Large and follow your dreams. And damn the barricades!   

Video above courtesy of Big Rude Jake

Video above courtesy of Big Rude Jake

Links: Big Rude Jake, More Big Rude Jake Stories, Video above courtesy of Big Rude Jake

Previous (50th Anniversary of Ziggy Stardust) - - - Next (Father's Day Videos)
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Wednesday, November 13, 2019

Crybaby is Resurrected with Remarkable New Album


It's taken twenty years but Crybaby has been resurrected like a Phoenix and is now blazing a musical trail with reborn energy. Paintings, the incredible debut album was released to much international fanfare in the mid 90s. Sadly, they broke up after only four years together but now they're back in action!

Hamilton songstress Rae Billing recently revived her critically acclaimed alt-country band, A while back, the reformed group unleashed Still, a remarkable new album that'll help cement its well-deserved legacy as one of the most spectacular country bands on the scene.

Rae's expressive voice is in full force here, backed by a beautiful, rich sonic landscape. There's a lot for the listener to explore and lose themselves in.

Along with original members, Rae (guitar, vocals) Steve Koch (guitar) and Lucky Pete Lambert (drums) the gang is now joined by Andrew Aldridge (guitar), Greg Brisco (piano, rhodes, organ) and Scott Bell (bass). James Henry plays on bass on two songs.

This dazzling album can be added to your collection though their live shows, the band's site, Dr. Disc, Revolution Records or cdbaby,





Blast from the Past: Another Crybaby video and more

 Links: Crybaby,  More Crybaby Stories, Videos above courtesy of Rae Billing and Crybaby
Previous (Jackie Washington's 100th Birthday) - - - Next (Drumming Day videos ft Danny Lockwood)
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Friday, July 19, 2019

News Roundup (Road Waves, Mark McNeil, Arkells, Polaris Short List+Winner, more)

Music Related Cartoons

Loose Parts
Ripley's Believe it or Not


More Musical Toons
      News

      Local
      CHCH Videos
      CBC Videos
      Hamilton Spectator

      Polaris Music Short List
      Blast from the Past: Last Year's Winner


      World
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        Saturday, June 9, 2018

        Happy Birthday Hamilton, Ontario (Videos by Deeps, TommyGunn, Tongue Fu, Lucas Stagg)


        Today (June 9, 2018), the city of Hamilton, Ontario is 172 years old.  In celebration, here are some music videos about the Hammer!



        Links: Deeps, More Deeps Stories, Video above courtesy of musicfromthedeeps



        Links: TommyGunn, Video above courtesy of  TOMMYGUNN



        Links: Tongue Fu, Video above courtesy of Tongue Fu



        Links: Lucas Stagg, More Lucas Stagg Stories, Video above courtesy of Lucas Stagg
        Previous (St. Catharines Arts Award Winners)
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        Wednesday, October 25, 2017

        The Legendary Fats Domino Passes + Local Reaction

        Doug Parker/Associated Press
        Rock 'N' Roll has lost another of its main architects. The legendary Fats Domino passed away on Tuesday, October 24, 2017. Our condolences to his family, friends and fans.

        Local stories: The Spectator, CHML, CBC

        Local Reaction

        We asked a number of local musicians for their comments on this amazing musician. We'll add more as the responses come in.

        Sonny Del-Rio
        His great sax-man, Lee Allan was my greatest influence in starting to play the sax in 1957.  There will never be another like Fats Domino. His music will live forever.  R.I.P. Fats
        Dave Rave
        Fats Domino was the soul of Rock and Roll. The Heartbeat of New Orleans. I loved his music. The Shakers performed I'm Ready. And one of the greatest performers I ever saw. Fats Domino RIP. Irreplaceable
        Jesse O'Brien
        RIP Fats Domino - he helped pave the way for all New Orleans style piano players and I hope he rests in peace on top of that Blueberry Hill.
        Lily Sazz (Cootes Paradise)
        Fats Domino was a pioneer of that distinctive New Orleans R&B sound, and he was one of the classic R&B musicians to contribute to the birth of 1950s rock 'n' roll. I think that all piano players in the blues or jazz genres have been influenced by him, whether they know it or not, through those that Fats, in turn, influenced. That's a legacy for us all to be grateful for. RIP Fats. Another great one gone.
         Rick Prinsthal (Rick and the 3D's)
        I saw him @ Lulu's in Kitchener in the late 80's - opened for Jerry Lee Lewis - spectacular show!!
        Greg Brisco
        Incredibly sad with the passing of the greats. He was one of them. How boring life may have been without his music. I hate to think of the butterfly effect if Blueberry Hill or Ain't That a Shame were never recorded by him.
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        Tuesday, June 6, 2017

        Bandit Queen from Hamilton's Sarah Beatty is Unbelievably Diverse!


        Hamilton songstress Sarah Beatty has really outdone herself with her latest unbelievable album, Bandit Queen.  She's done an amazing job evolving into an unpredictable, genre-fusing singer/songwriter.

        There's no pinning her down on this recording: going from soulful chanteuse to ragtime gal to heartfelt balladeer and beyond. Bandit Queen showcases an incredible versatility and range. Every song has it's own feel and you never know what she's gonna hit you with next!

        Aiding her on her music journey is a top-notch main band featuring Matty Simpson (electric guitar, banjo),  Justine Fischer (bass) and Dave Clark (Drums).  Also lending a hand are Greg Brisco (keys), Deeps (keys), Troy Dowding (trumpet, flugelhorn), Steve Collette (trumpet, flugelhorn), Bob Doidge (Euphonium), Sal Rosselli (sax), Ross Woodbridge (Clarinet), Chris Skrzek of Skirt Check (trombone), Michel Dequevedo (hand percussion) and Mary Simon (harmony vocals).

        If you're looking for something truly multi-faceted, you can pick up her CD at Dr. Disc and Cheapies in Hamilton plus Forch's (Cambridge) and Busted Flat (Kitchener).  It can also be purchased through her online shop or iTunes.



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        Sunday, March 5, 2017

        New Episode of Ensemble! features Dwayne LaForme and Joshua Arden Miller


        New episodes of Ensemble! on Cable 14 Hamilton just keep on coming! Two incredible Bluesmen, Dwayne LaForme and Joshua Arden Miller (Pappy Johns Band) will be starring in the next show.

        Hamilton residents with cable can view the episode on Cable 14. Other Rogers or Cogeco customers (including cell plan subscribers) can see it online at Cable14now

        This episode is no longer available.
        Here are a few videos that showcase their talents.



         More Taj Mahal Covers/Stories



        Links: Dwayne LaForme, More Dwayne LaForme Stories, Videos above courtesy of DSmith Productions

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        Saturday, December 3, 2016

        Experience Gritty, Vivid Storytelling on New Album from Hamilton's Dave Pomfret


        The new songs on A Devil's Urge, the compelling sophomore album from Dave Pomfret will lure you in with their catchy, rootsy, pop hooks.  Once they've captured you, be ready to experience some incredible, vivid, lyrical storytelling.

        Dave's gritty voice will guide you into tales of a bank robbing muscle man (a true story!), heartbreak, loss and more. Each track has its own phenomenal spirit and vibe. The layered texture of the sound also illuminates your way through this musical journey.  

        Dave's chosen a number of amazing local artists to back him up.  His co-horts in the band Fry Truck are here: Dan Medakovic (baking vocals), Chris Altmann (pedal steel, piano, organ) and Matt Coleman (fiddle). Also joining him are Mike Trebilcock (guitar, vocals) , Greg Brisco (organ), Jay Burr (horns), Ross Wooldridge (saxophone) plus Lisa Winn and Brennagh Burns  on backing vocals.

        You can pick up the CD at his wonderful live shows or go to Dr. Disc in Hamilton. It should be available on iTunes soon too.







        Blast from the Past: Dave's Previous CD

         Links: Dave Pomfret. More Dave Pomfret Stories, Videos above courtesy of Dave Pomfret, More Releases
        Previous (News Roundup: Folk Sinners, James Anthony w Wendell Ferguson, The Band) - - - Next (David Gillis Win Canadian Folk Music Award)
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        Wednesday, May 4, 2016

        Videos: Duane Rutter and Greg Brisco @ Mo' Kauffey Fundraiser


        Click here for more photos from the event

        These videos are in memory of the late Mo' Kauffey. His family still needs your help. Please give at:  https://www.youcaring.com/gary-wickizer-aka-mo-kauffey-457124





        Two videos above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers





        Two videos above courtesy of Hamilton B. Lous

         More videos from this show: Ambre McLean, Kent MacMillan, Will Gillespie, Kauffey Temple

        Blast from the Past: Duane Rutter on Barber Shop Podcast

        Links: Duane Rutter, More Duane Rutter Stories, Greg Brisco, More Greg Brisco Stories
        Previous (New Ginger St. James Album) - - - Next (Music-Related Cartoons)
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        Tuesday, May 3, 2016

        New Album from Hamilton's Ginger St. James Packed with High Energy Boogie and Sultry Swagger!


        Hamilton musical sensation Ginger St. James has always had a lot of country and a ton of rock in her soul.  Her high-energy boogie and sultry swagger tear through some amazing songs on her latest album, One for the Money (her first for Busted Flat Records)

        There are a few traditional country tunes here but Ginger proves she can step things up with some hard rock, soul, early rock and more.  Things never get boring as the lady and her band showcase their vast repertoire of styles.

        Backing up Ms. St. James are Justine Fischer (backup vocals,  bass), Rob Foreman (bass), SnowHeel Slim (guitar), Chris Altmann (piano), Greg Brisco (piano, organ) and Andre Tellier (drums).

        Go ahead and pick up a copy of the Cd at any of her unforgettable shows or but it through the Busted Flat online shop, cdbaby or iTunes.







        Blast from the Past: Ginger's CD - Diesel and Peas

        Links: Ginger St. James, More Ginger St. James Stories, Videos above courtesy of BoydWilsonFilms, More Releases
        Previous (International Jazz Day Videos) - - - Next (Videos of Duane Rutter @Mo' Kauffey Fundraiser)
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        Tuesday, November 17, 2015

        Trebleclef Reminds You to Please Help Local Charities

        Santa agrees with Trebleclef: Please help local charities this Christmastime
        As the holiday season approaches, there will be many incredible charity events to attend.  Please remember those less fortunate at this time of year.

        Trebleclef, our little monkey mascot, has been experiencing a number of such special occasions and he encourages everyone to attend a few as well.  It'll make ya feel good there's some amazing music sometimes.

        For example, there was Share the Warmth, a wonderful winter clothing drive that had a number of remarkable local musicians playing at Gallagher's in Hamilton.

        All winter clothing went to the Good Shepherd Centre.  Check them out if you'd like to donate or volunteer.

        With Greg Brisco and Friend
        Hangin' with Tomi Swick
        Click here for more photos of the event.


        Shari Dunn and Jonny Kerr (and friends) play Lost in the Light (by Bahamas) at Share the Warmth at Gallagher's Shari Dunn, Jonny Kerr, Tomi Swick, Justin Dunlop, Deeps (mostly off camera playing piano)
        Posted by Hamilton B. Lous on Tuesday, November 17, 2015


        Click here if you can't see the video above



        The 'Share the Warmth' performers jam to 'The Weight' by the Band! Shari Dunn and Jonny Kerr, Shari Dunn, Jonny Kerr, Mark Crissinger, Shelby Kerr, Tomi Swick, Deeps, Greg Brisco, Justin Dunlop
        Posted by Hamilton B. Lous on Tuesday, November 17, 2015


        Click here if you can't see the video above

        Links: Shari and Jonny, Tomi Swick, Mark Crissinger, Deeps, Justin Dunlop, Stumbleweed, Greg Brisco, More Stories/Covers of the Band, Videos above courtesy of Hamilton B. Lous

        ----------

        Also, Elyse, the daughter of Hamilton musician Kevin MacLean, had a beautiful, unique  7th birthday celebration at Delta High School.  Instead of receiving gifts, the event was to collect toys for the Y108 Children's Fund.  There were tons of activities, food and even Santa popped by.  Great job Elyse - you should be proud.

        Elyse and her proud papa, Kevin Maclean
        Click here for more information on the Children's Fund.

        Click here for more photos of the event.

        Click here for a listing of local charities.
        Previous (Ensemble! TV Show Looking for Theme Music) - - - Next (New Angela Siracusa CD)
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        Wednesday, October 28, 2015

        Dundas's Frank Koren Launches Singer/Songwriter Career With Amazing CD!


        Not only is Dundas's Frank Koren one of the most popular and in-demand guitarists around but he's now taken the big leap to becoming a singer/songwriter in his own right. Red Chair marks Frank's recording debut as a lead vocalist and he's simply amazing.

        With a newly-discovered voice filled with character and soul, Frank meshes perfectly with the rockin' Folk/Americana sound on most of the album.  The band also gets wonderfully experimental with guitar effects and beats near the end of the disc (including some beatboxing from Hachey the MouthPeace).  The whole recording is folky, funky and free-spirited.

        Many of Frank's talented musical friends have joined in helping him launch his debut CD.  They include his family (daughter Marrakech and wife Kim Koren,) along with Mark McIntyre, Ed Mortenson, Amy King, Nick Czarnogorski, Jake Payne, Melissa Bel, Harrison Kennedy, Paul Inston, Glenn Milchem (Blue Rodeo), Greg Brisco, Bob Doidge, Danny Lockwood, Aaron Goldstein, Andy Gingerich, Vince Rinalldo, and Donnie McDougall.

        This incredible CD will be released soon in many local stores and online as well (check back on this page for more information).  You can also get a copy at his CD Release Party at the Casbah on November 14th.



        Blast from the Past: Frank Wins Debbie Clause Recording Fund

        Links: Frank Koren, More Frank Koren Stories, More Releases, Video above courtesy of Lisa Millar
        Previous (New Lynn Jackson CD) - - - Next (News Roundup : Help Mo' Kauffey, Blind Mule, Shawn Brush, James-Alphonse)
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        Friday, July 10, 2015

        News Roundup (Dundas Music Club, Shakers, Ian Andrews, Tiny Bill Cody)





        News

        Trebleclef checked out Junkhouse @ The Brantford Canada Day Celebrations
          
        Links: Junkhouse, More Junkhouse Stories, More photos from the event

        He also went to the Forbes Park Music Festival in Cambridge and met up with Lucas Stagg.




        Links: Lucas Stagg, More Lucas Stagg Stories, More photos from this event
        Recently Added

        Nothing new this week
        Birthdays

         Thursday, July 9
        Friday, July 10
        Saturday, July 11
        • Ron MacDonald (New XStatix)
        Monday, July 13
        Tuesday, July 14
        Wednesday, July 15
        Featured Video



         Links: Tiny Bill Cody - More Tiny Bill Cody Stories, Video above courtesy of Scotty Bakalar
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        Saturday, May 23, 2015

        CONGRATS! 2015 Hamilton Music Industry Award Winners (Including Us!)


        The Hamilton Blues Lovers website was only one of the many winners in the 2015 Hamilton Music Industry Awards.  Many deserving members of the local music community were recognized on May 23, 2015 at the Dofasco Centre for the Arts.

        Lou, our blogger had this to say: "Thank you to all my fellow nominees who help get the word out about the amazing Hamilton music scene and thanks to all the amazing musicians.  It is an honour to receive this award."

        The big winner of the day was classical musician Strat Andriotis, who earned three awards.



        Video above courtesy of Dekatria Records

        The night was also special because of the late, great Brian Griffith, who won the Guitarist of the Year Award.  His son accepted the award on his behalf.  Many of the speakers paid tribute to this amazing musician.  There were many touching moments.



        Links: More Brian Griffith Stories, Video above courtesy of Doug Smith 

         Click here for the CBC Hamilton story

         Click here for pictures of the event

         Click here for picture of our Mascot at the awards

         CONGRATULATIONS EVERYONE!

        Here is a complete list of winners.
        Previous (Harrison Kennedy on New Eric Bibb Album)
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