Sonny Del-Rio Was a Giant in the Music Scene, RIP!

It is with sadness that we report on the passing of the legendary, unforgettable Sonny Del-Rio. He died on Friday, September 18, 2026. Our condolences to his family, friends and fans. We will post more information here as we learn it.

Sonny was a giant in the music scene and his contributions are incalculable.  His stellar, decades-long career (he started in 1957) included performing with Crowbar, King Biscuit Boy, Ronnie and the Rockets, Trickbag, Smoke Wagon Blues Band, Ray Materick and too many to mention here. His yearly Hamilton Hometown Christmas shows helped raise a lot of money for charity, earning him a much-deserved Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal medal for his fundraising in 2012.

A word from Lou, our blogger.

Linda and I were lucky to consider Sonny a great friend. We got to laugh with him, hear his incredible stories, and got to experience his immense talent. My wife and I will miss him terribly and our heart goes out to his family. We love you Sonny! 

Social Media Reaction

Smoke Wagon Blues Band

This might be the most tearful goodbye I've had to make about a fellow musician and mentor. Writing something, anything, helps me try to process this sad news this morning. The Smoke Wagon Blues Band and myself owe so much to the legendary Sonny Del Rio. "Mr Hamilton" it was over 23 or 24 years ago we first started playing with Sonny (Dennis Grasley) . We looked up to him so much that I was so scared to ask him to play on our album at the time that I called Jesse O'Brien to ask him for us ha. I was nervous and excited the first time I met him, you got to remember we were a young band at the time. We had a 7:00 a.m early studio session booked (ridiculous) so it's 6:30 in the morning when Sonny gets there and the first words out of his mouth as he walked up was reefer? As he handed me a doobie! Lol that was the start of an amazing friendship.

Sonny became our alternate sax player for many years and we had all kinds of fun and shenanigans playing throughout Ontario. Sonny always stole the show; he was the most charismatic musician that I've ever shared the stage with. I learned so much about stage presence, professionalism, friendship, and humanity from him.

He introduced us and invited us into the family of legendary Hamilton musicians. Sonny was so supportive of our career, he booked us on bills with Jackie Washington, Ray Materick, Tom Wilson, Harrison Kennedy, Trickbag, Teenage Head, Crowbar, Tim Gibbons, and so many more. He would come to Mike and I's family events and invite us to his. He was family!  Sonny will always be the king of Hamilton to us, I love you Sonny. Our deepest condolences to Tammy, Tommy, Lori, April, all his lifetime, bandmates, friends and family, he was loved by so many. Farewell to the king " blow your horn man"

Bill Irvine (Friend)

I'm really sad to hear that Sonny Del-Rio has passed, we had a lot of history over the years. He was a good friend, we worked together for about 5 or six years.

He was a mentor to my son Dean Irvine. He recognized Dean's talent and ambition, included him and his band in all the events he could!! Love that he showed up on Superbowl Sunday (he came to our house for the game for years) at 2 in the afternoon, the game was at 6:30 and I told him that. He told me that he wasn't here to see me lol, he wanted to see Dean. They went downstairs to Dean's practice room and Sonny taught him jazz standards for about 3 hours!! Who does that for a kid??? 

We were quite close with Sonny and his wife, Faye, dinners etc. Everyone has Sonny stories, he was recognized by the City of Hamilton as 12th most famous person. He was a good man, a great musician who played with everyone, man he could blow that Sax!!! You are already missed by my Anita, Dean and I, your legion of fans and so many friends. RIP pal!! 

Lily Sazz

I left a voicemail for Sonny recently to arrange a visit, then hit the road planning to follow up when I got back, only to receive this sad news. Sonny gave my band Cootes Paradise our first gig and called us “the cooties”. And I’m just remembering that way back when I was a music student in university in the early 80s, I interviewed him for a project, and asked what he soaked his reeds in, and the answer was vodka. What a character. I’ll always love and remember him. Condolences to all of us.  

Video above courtesy of Jim Unsworth

Links: We Got Blues, More We Got Blues Stories, Video above courtesy of Chris “#DeaconsTable” Labonville

Links: Sonny Del-Rio. More Sonny Del Rio Stories, Video above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers

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Throwback Thursday: Jackie Washington: 1919-2009 (R.I.P.)

Original Posts: June 28, 2009 - June 29, 2009 - June 30, 2029

Updated/Merged Post: February 5, 2026

Beloved Hamilton Blues legend Jackie Washington passed at the age of 89 at Joseph’s Hospital at 1:22pm on Saturday, June 27, 2009 with family and friends by his side. The cause of death was complications from a heart attack.

He was an inspiration to generations of musicians and a Canadian treasure.

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Reaction

On the Monday, June 29, 2009 edition of the Hamilton Spectator, Jackie Washington received the recognition he deserved. His life and career was the front page story.

Graham Rockingham's touching article included a description of his final moments, Jackie's biography, highlights from his career, and quotes from important Hamilton figures such as Lincoln Alexander, Sheila Copps, and more.

The legend's passing has also been felt on the Internet as many musicians and fans have posted their thoughts on different web sites.

Here is a sampling:

Mark McNeil (Musician & Spectator Reporter)

I've never known anyone who had more of a positive outlook on life and so genuinely loved being around people. He was a pleasure to spend time with and he was a treasure of information about the jazz world and local history. We all learned by his example and our lives were enriched by his musicianship.

Alfie Smith

The world seemed a little brighter with Jackie Washington in it. Your music and the joy you brought to so many people will always live on. I feel lucky to have known you. Rest in peace my friend.

John Crawford (aka Big Johnny Blue)

I am devastated, I just found out that the great Jackie Washington of Hamilton Ontario died yesterday. My heart goes out to the Washington Family. I was deeply moved by Jackie's music and he influenced my music for the better. Thanks Jackie and God bless you.!!!!!!!!

Lily Sazz

A Hamilton icon gone. Jackie Washington's memory will live on. Special mention to all of his dear friends who helped him in his final years.

Media Articles 

• CBC
• The Toronto Star
• Sing Out
• Worker's City 

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Memorial & Tributes

July 6, 2009

On Monday, July 6, 2009 at 7:30 pm, a New-Orleans style band was joined by many performers at the Jackie Washington Rotary Park on at Wellington and Simcoe. All musicians were invited to join in.

There were some tears but also a lot of music, fun and laughter at the tribute.Jackie Washington Rotary Park was packed with friends, family and fans remembering the life of this late, great Hamiltonian. Trains tooted as they passed the park, reminding everyone of Jackie's fascination with locomotives.

Local politician, and radio personality Bob Bratina hosted as poems were read, songs were sung, and stories were told.

Close friend and former manager, Bill Powell spoke of how Jackie's live music helped bring a woman out of catatonic state at a retirement home.

Organizers from various Ontario festivals spoke of the dedication the legend had to their events.

Poet and co-writer of Jackie's biography, James Strecker, read a poem he wrote in memory of his friend. Poet Holmes Hook also followed suit.

Jackie's frequent musical partners, Mose Scarlett (now deceased) and Ken Whiteley played amazing songs as did many other performers.

The evening ended with a big jam session of When the Saints Go Marching In. The performers marched into the crowd as people grabbed tambourines, harmonicas and kazoos to join in. A great sendoff for a wonderful man whose laughter and music brightened many people's lives.

July 8, 2009

Over 300 people packed Stewart Memorial Church, on July 8, 2009 to pay their respects.

Among the attendees were former Ontario Lieutenant Governor Lincoln Alexander, whom the Spectator quoted saying that there would never be another like him again.

In the article, former manager Bill Powell spoke about how Jackie turned down a lucrative deal opening for Harry Belafonte because it would take him away from his family.

Also, Reverend Francis Chisholm called him "Dr. Washington, specialist in music therapy"

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Hamilton Spectator Stories

Click pic above to enlarge

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Videos

Video above courtesy of highorhurtin

Video above courtesy of Vinyldrome

Links: Jackie Washington, More Jackie Washington Stories, Video above courtesy of MOCM - Museum of Canadian Music

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Hamilton's Jack Pedler Was a Ferocious Drummer! RIP

It is with sadness that we announce the recent passing of Hamilton drumming legend and solo performer Jack Pedler. He passed away on December 23, 2025. We will update this page as we find out more details. Our condolences to his family, friends and fans.

Jack Pedler drummed with numerous acts, including Buxton Kastle, Teenage Head, The Mercy Brothers, Ray Materick, Dave Rave, Coyote Shivers, Daniel Lanois and The Rockets. He also created amazing, unique solo material. Jack taught drums at Picks N Sticks for quite a while as well.

Click here for his obituary.

Click here for Billboard Canada's story on him (you'll need to scroll down)

A message from Lou, our blogger:

Not only was Jack a powerful drummer but he was a great friend. His sense of humour was legendary and he always had a hilarious story or joke to impart when we bumped into him. I'll miss you buddy.

Social Media Reaction

Teenage Head Facebook Page:

Sad news seems to travel fast these days, we've just learned of the passing of the one and only Mr. Jack Pedler, one of the hardest working drummers Hamilton has given us. That's Jackie up front with the Ray Bans on, taken near the old CKOC building at 73 Garfield South in the Hammer. Jack signed on in the late 80's, 1986ish at a pivotal moment when Frankie decided to go solo, and we'd also lost our original drummer, Nick Stipanitz. Jack stayed on for 30 more years, playing easily a 1000 shows right across Canada until 2016 when his health problems began. That's Jack playing on our underrated "Electric Guitar" album released in 1987. Not only could he effortlessly add drums to any song, fast, slow didn't matter, he was a real pro. He called slow songs "Nap", as in taking a nap.

If I was writing a book, there would be one long juicy chapter with Jack stories, the guy had an amazingly hilarious sense of humor, which comes in handy in this business. OK, one story... His very first gig with us was I believe in Regina, 1986. As we passed through customs at Pearson, they're waving the wand down around his crotch and he's trying to push the attendants hand away, as the wand is going off like a Geiger counter at Chernobyl. Tin foil will do that when it's wrapped around a modest amount of personal wacky. I'll never forget them paging Mr. Gord Lewis, Mr. Gord Lewis, please come to the ticket counter. Jackie was remarkably able to catch another flight, and made the show that night. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Rest In Peace laddy.

Dave Rave

RIP my fellow beautiful band mate soul brother and great spirit Jack Pedler.  We toured the world together.  You taught me and everyone  how the world really worked.  Fairyland  it Ain't.   Rest easy my brother. The world was happy you Rocked it.

Lily Sazz

My sweet friend Jack Pedler has left us. His last words to me on Saturday were “I love you, Sis and I’m so proud of you”. I can’t say much more right now other than it’s hard to imagine a world without him in it. My condolences to us all as we all loved him and my heart goes out to his brother Dave and sister-in-law Cath, and sister Joanne. 

Gene Champagne (Teenage Head, Killjoys)

I am deeply saddened to hear of Jack Pedler passing. Another huge loss to the music community. Jack had an incredible sense of humour and was a one of a kind. Everyone knew Jack Pedler not only because of his long tenure in Teenage Head and the multitude of bands he played with  but because he was Jack Pedler!!   A ferocious drummer that I very much looked up to because he was one of the best hands down.

Links: Buxton Kastle, Video above courtesy of Paul R K Wheeler Jr

Links: Teenage Head, More Teenage Head Stories, Video above courtesy of Teenage Head - Topic

Links: More Jack Pedler Stories, Video above courtesy of Videowave Music Videos

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Star-Studded Solo Debut from Dundas' Lily Sazz

Artist: Lily Sazz (Dundas)

Recording: What Just Happened

Mini-Review: 

Dundas' Lily Sazz is finally taking centre stage after years of playing with incredible arists such as the Trailblazers, Groove Corporation, Cootes Paradise, Women's Blues Revue, Rita Chiarelli, and many others. 

This is a fabulous way to kickstart a solo career! This star-studded project has everything from the deeply personal to the downright quirky. Every song is infused with own feel and will have you contemplating or shaking your moneymaker.

Available on: Bandcamp, Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, Physical media coming soon

Personnel:

Main Band: Lily Sazz (vocals, piano, organ, Tibetan tingsha cymbal), Robin Pirson (drums), Carrie Clark (bass)

Guests

• Colin Linden (slide guitar on Goodnight Sweetheart)
• "Trombone" Charlotte McAfee-Brunner (trombone on In A Hurry)
• Jack Pedler (cowbell on In A Hurry)
• Harry Manx (slide guitar, vocals on Train is Rollin')
• Scotty Bakalar (shaker on In A Hurry, güiro on Knack for That)
• Boreal - Katherine Wheatley, Tannis Slimmon, Angie Nussey (background vocals on Knack for That)
• Darcy Hepner (tenor saxophone on Future Me)
• Suzie Vinnick (background vocal, acoustic & electric guitar on Isn't That So, guitar on Gaslight)
• Steve Marriner (harmonica on Gaslight)
• Colina Phillips and Jill Zadeh (background vocals on Better Stop)
• Scott Apted (drums, shaker on Better Stop/drums, tambourine, background vocal on I Can't Jam)
• Wayne DeAdder (bass on Better Stop, I Can't Jam)
• Mike Branton (guitar on Better Stop, I Can't Jam)

Stream the album below

Links: Album above courtesy of Bandcamp

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Throwback Thursday: Groove Corporation Debut Album - Record Prophets

Original Post: April 4, 2009

Updated: May 22, 2025

Update: The band is no longer active so it will be hard finding a CD version of this recording. This was the band's only album.

On April 4, 2009, Hamilton's Groove Corporation released their debut album, Record Prophets. This is a recording to play and boogie. Their funk, soul, R&B sound is infectious and will have you dancing.

Consisting mainly of cover tunes (Jungle Boogie, James Brown's Cold Sweat, a swing version of KISS's Detroit Rock City, and more) - the collection also has three incredible originals by the band.

The album is available through You Tube, Spotify, and Apple Music.

Band members: 

• Bass – Steve Hilbert
• Drums – Frank Vignanello
• Guitar, Vocals, Producer, Mixer – Alex MacDougall
• Keyboards, Vocals – Lily Sazz
• Lead Vocals, Congas – Kim Campagnaro
• Saxophone – Peter McFarland
• Saxophone, Vocals – Cole G. Benjamin
• Trumpet – Rich Sumstad, Rob Gellner

More information

• Engineer, Producer, Recorded By, Mixed By – Ian Nielsen
• Mastered By – Nick Blagona

Stream the album below.

Links: Groove Corporation, More Groove Corporation Stories, Album above courtesy of Groove Corporation - Topic, More Releases

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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

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Happy World Fiddle Day! (Benjamin Dakota Rogers, The Schotts, Cootes Paradise)

Update of 2017 Post

Links: Benjamin Dakota Rogers, More Benjamin Dakota Rogers Stories, Video above courtesy of Cultivate Music



Links: The Schotts, Video above courtesy of the Schotts



Links: Cootes Paradise, More Cootes Paradise Stories, More Bob Dylan Covers/Stories, Video above courtesy of Lily Sazz

Click here for more Fiddle Day Videos

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Happy Toot Your Flute Day! Videos by Mark Volkov, Suzanne Shulman, Leslie Newman

Update of 2018 Post

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



Links: Suzanne Shulman, Trio Lyra, Video above courtesy of triolyra



Links: Leslie Newman, Video above courtesy of Robert DiVito

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Legendary Teenage Head Guitarist Gordie Lewis Passes

It is with sadness that we announce the passing of legendary Teenage Head guitarist Gordie Lewis, who was found dead on Sunday, August 2, 2022 after an apparent murder (his son has been charged). Details will be updated as we know them.

Media Links

• Hamilton Spectator Story
• Hamilton Spectator Obituary
• CHCH
• Global News
• City News (video)
• CBC
• Variety

A word from Lou, our blogger:

The world has lost a guitar legend. I was lucky enough to catch him performing numerous times and talking with him on a few occasions. He was a wonderful, sweet man and was a true guitar master. My favouite memory of was when he played Gage Park, soloing on his guitar until the cops had to come and shut things down. How rock and roll is that? RIP Gord.

Social Media Reaction 

We may add more later on

Teenage Head Facebook page

We are heartbroken and still trying to process the loss of our friend, bandmate and brother Gord Lewis  Our hearts are with his family and all that knew and loved him. Gord was a force and an inspiration to many. You were taken from us far too soon.

Gene Champagne (Teenage Head Drummer) 

I am utterly heartbroken. I am going to miss trying to make you laugh. All your stories... I will never never forget how much you inspired me and believed in me and made me believe in myself.

You are and always will be my hero. I love you Gord. Rest in Peace

Tom Wilson (Junkhouse, Blackie and the Rodeo Kings)

Gord Lewis was friend, a gentle man with a wild desire who burned up the air with a Les Paul Jr & a Marshall stack. He was a pioneer who took us where we’d never been. Thanks for showing us the way Gord. We’ll continue to follow your spirit in your absence.  

Brad Germain (Golden Feather)

Tributes are pouring in for a reason.  I’ve never heard a person say a bad word about you Gordie Lewis ❤️

Loved playing music with you - loved waiting for you to be ready to start - loved talking to you always.  You were always so supportive of me as I learned and grew.  

Loved watching you play - effortless style and grace, and pure volume ☺️

You meant so much to our whole community, and all of us are heartbroken to lose you.  

I’m hearing you sing “The Right Stuff” by Robert Calvert in my head right now, and I’m crying for you Gord.  I love you always and forever.  

To all my friends that knew him - I love you all, hold him in you with lightness and warmth.  He’ll be missed forever.

Melissa Marchese

Gordie, I love you forever and always. ❤️ 

The sweetest, kindest, most gentle human. 

Thank you for your inspiration, love and support. 

Thanks for saving my ass the first time I was to ever perform an original song of mine. I asked if you could play guitar with me and without hesitation you obliged. 

Thank you for welcoming me so warmly into your world and for teaching me so much. 

❤️ You’re in my heart forever. ❤️

To all my friends who are hurting right now, I can’t wait to hug you and share stories about our beloved Gordie. Xoxo

Lori Yates

We are all so devastated by the death of legend Gord Lewis💔. I was always so starstruck by him that all I could do was say hello, I couldn’t talk! I was a huge Teenage Head fan when I first started out with my band The Last Resorts and the pinnacle of our career was getting to open for Teenage Head at Erindale College! We always hoped for world domination for them and were so spoiled by their local performances. I was asked to sing with the band after Frank died and I was told they would “bat me around like I was in a pinball machine”…and indeed they did! RIP Gord…we won’t forget.❤️💔❤️ 

Lily Sazz (Cootes Paradise) 

He was a true gentle man, and always treated me with utmost respect and kindness. Many great conversations about music. RIP and condolences to his family and all the many who loved him. 💔 Hamilton and the world have lost a truly great, influential musician.

Video above courtesy of Blüm Media

Links: Headstones, More Headstones Stories, Video above courtesy of superfannrock

Links: Teenage Head, More Teenage Head Stories, Video above courtesy of surrealiststreetgang

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Happy Piano Day! Videos with Lily Sazz at the Women's Blues Revue

Photo by Glenn Lowson

March 29, 2022 is Piano Day, the 88th day of the year.

Dundas keyboard veteran Lily Sazz. These videos are of her performing in the house band for the annual Women's Blues Revue show in Toronto.

Links: Layla Zoe, More Layla Zoe Stories

Links: Sue Foley, More Sue Foley Stories, 

Links: Cheryl Lescom, More Cheryl Lescom Stories, 

Links: Lily Sazz, More Lily Sazz Stories, Videos above courtesy of David Horhota, More Piano Day Videos

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Remembering Blues Supporter John Valenteyn

Earlier this month (October 4), Toronto Blues Society co-founder John Valenteyn passed away of a rare blood disorder. Among his many achievements include reviewing many Blues CDs for the Maple Blues newsletter and hosted a long running Blues radio show. Our condolences to his family, friends and fans.

Here are a few social media comments from local artists.

Smoke Wagon Blues Band

Deepest condolences to friends and family of John Valenteyn.  Founding member of The Toronto Blues Society. John was such an amazing friend to the blues community in Canada.  I will always remember our very first review from John way back on our very first album. I was so excited I drove to Toronto and picked up a whole bunch of copies for our friends and family. Every review, amazing radio play, and support over the years has meant the world to us. Thank you John RIP

Lily Sazz (Cootes Paradise)

Your selfless dedication to blues music and the people who create it was appreciated more than you may have known. Our last exchange involved you reaching out to me to make sure you received advance access to our new Cootes Paradise album, as you'd be heading up north and wanted to make sure to write a review in the August MapleBlues newsletter. In an industry where anything other than being ignored is really appreciated, you stood out as someone who always acknowledged and appreciated us. You were a true gentleman, and a kind, gentle soul. Deepest sympathies to Brenda, friends, family, and colleagues. Your loss will leave a canyon in the community. 

Downchild

Saddened to hear of the passing of John Valenteyn, one of the true pillars of Canadian blues and the nicest guys you'll ever meet. His passion and knowledge of blues was unrivaled and he supported so many blues artists as co-founder of the The Toronto Blues Society and through his over 30 years as host of The Blues Hour on CJRT and CIUT. Only a few months ago, he reviewed our 50th album for the Maple Blues Newsletter in John's Blues Picks, as he'd done for so many of our albums over the years.

Our sincere condolences to his wife of 46 years, Brenda Valenteyn and family. John will be dearly missed......

 Chris Antonik

I was fortunate to be a guest on John's show several times, and his review of my first record 10 years ago helped instill the confidence and encouragement I needed to get moving in this business. 

Rhoaul Bhaneja

RIP John Valenteyn Blues DJ on CJRT and CIUT, long time Toronto Blues Society member, reviewer of thousands of Blues recordings for Maple Blues Magazine and a one time record store sales man who turned so many customers on to blues music (and more) on his shifts. Condolences to his many friends and family. 

From the Toronto Blues Society:

After a difficult fight with a rare blood disorder HLH John passed mid day on Sunday October 4 at Toronto Western Hospital according to his wife of 46 years, Brenda Valenteyn. Co-founder of the Toronto Blues Society in 1985, John was a pillar of the Canadian blues community broadcasting at CIUT 89.5 FM for fourteen years following a twenty year run with The Blues Hour at CJRT (now jazzfm). According to life long Port Colborne friend Doug McVicar, John’s first taste of broadcasting at Queens University flipped him from a path in engineering to the Ryerson Radio and Television Arts program and his stint as a producer, leading to years on the air. An avid collector, John travelled yearly to the Chicago Blues Festival trolling the aisles at Bob Koester’s Blues and Jazz Mart while catching live shows at Petrillo Band Shell.

His enormous collection made him a natural member of the Maple Blues Award Steering Committee and monthly Maple Blues newsletter reviewer in John’s Blues Picks. His knowledge and passion for blues recordings and artists made him the leading figure in Canada’s blues history. He will be missed.

Cards to Toronto Blues Society and in lieu of flowers, donations requested to TBS via online or cheques to the office address: 910 Queen St. W. Suite B04, Toronto-ON M6J 1G6.

Media Links

• FYI Music News 
• Globe and Mail
• Toronto Moon

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Cootes Paradise Brings Funky, Bluesy Soul to New Album

You can shake off the COVID-19 Blues by listening to Downstream, the fabulous sophomore album from local supergroup, Cootes Paradise.

Cootes lays down some funky, bluesy soul that'll shake off your woes and get your body movin'. The band can boogie it up better than any other band out there and they have the skills to show them how it's done.

Speaking of the band, members include:

• Sue Leonard (lead and background vocals)
• Wayne Krawchuk (guitar, lead and background vocals)
• Lily Sazz (keys, background vocals)
• Amy Di Nino (drums, percussion, background vocals)
• Ian Taylor (bass)
• Mark Volkov (multiple instruments)

The album will be available via the band's website and through Bancamp,  Spotify and more.

Videos above courtesy of Cootes Paradise

Blast from the Past: Cootes Paradise's Debut Album

Links: Cootes Paradise, More Cootes Paradise Stories, Video above courtesy of Whitehall Entertainment Incorporated, More Releases

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New Ensemble! Episode ft the Dunlop Brothers

The final new episode (at least for the next little while) of the Cable 14 show, Ensemble! will feature the marvelous Dunlop Brothers!  This wonderful episode is currently being broadcast on TV.  The always amazing Lily Sazz hosted the show at Hamilton's Grant Avenue Studio.

This episode should be available on demand soon (for only Shaw, Rogers and Cogeco customers.) Anyone can now live stream Cable 14 for free at https://cable14now.com/.

Links: Dunlop Brothers, More Dunlop Brothers Stories, Videos above courtesy of Southern Souls

More Ensemble Stories

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Dundas Music Club Offering Phenomenal Performances Online! Videos by Sharon Washington/Scotty Bakalar, Lily Sazz, Steve Parton, Dan Medakovic, Jay Burr

The Dundas Music Club has the solution for your lockdown blues. Their Facebook page has some phenomenal videos for you to watch.

Every Wednesday at 7 pm, they run a watch party (there's usually a theme). Even if you can't make it to that, many of the incredible videos stay on the page and you can listen to them at your leisure.

Here's some of what's available now:



Links: More Sharon Washington Stories, Scotty Bakalar, More Scotty Bakalar Stories, Video above courtesy of Sharon Washington



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



Links: Steve Parton, More Steve Parton Stories, Video above courtesy of Steve Parton



Links: Danny Medakovic, More Dan Medakovic Stories, More Hollies Covers/Stories, Video above courtesy of Danny Medakovic



Links: Jay Burr, More Jay Burr Stories, Video above courtesy of Jay Burr

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New Ensemble! Episode ft Two Strangers

The incredible musical duo, Two Strangers are the latest stars of the Cable 14 show, Ensemble!. Their episode of the long-running series is currently being broadcast on TV.  The always amazing Lily Sazz hosted the show at Hamilton's Grant Avenue Studio.

This episode shoule be available on demand at soon (available only for Shaw, Rogers and Cogeco customers.) Anyone can now live stream Cable 14 for free at https://cable14now.com/.

Below are a few videos from the duo (this is not the episode):







Links: Two Strangers, Videos above courtesy of Two Strangers

The schedule for this episode (more will be added as we find out):

• None schedule

More Ensemble Stories

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New Ensemble! Episode ft Alex Whorms and Elise Arsenault Available

A new episode the Cable 14 show, Ensemble! is now available to watch online and should be broadcast on TV soon. The show feature two talented local singer/songwriters: Alex Whorms and Elise Arsenault. This is also the first episode hosted by the fabulous Lily Sazz and recorded at the legendary Grant Avenue Studio.

It is currently only available on demand at this page (available only for Shaw, Rogers and Cogeco customers. Anyone can now live stream Cable 14 for free at https://cable14now.com/.

Here are some videos from the performers.





Links: Alex Whorms, More Alex Whorms Stories, Videos above courtesy of Alex Whorms





Links: Elise Arsenault, More Elise Arsenault Stories, Videos above courtesy of Elise Arsenault-Topic

More Ensemble Stories

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Hamilton Music Producer Nick Blagona Passes

We are saddened to hear of the passing of music industry giant, Nick Blagona on January 4, 2020. The famed Hamiltonian worked with many legends such as Cat Stevens, Tom Jones, The Police, The Bee Gees, Chicago, Deep Purple, Rainbow, April Wine, Kim Mitchell, The Tea Party, and many more. He also worked with many local artists as well. Our condolences to his family, friends and fans.

Nick left this comment on his Facebook page.

I am of sound mind and spirit and I wish to express my appreciation to Alex Andronache, Gil Moore, all the staff at Metalworks, for all the great years of mastering that they entrusted me with;

Lindsay and David at Yamaha as well as the crew in Germany for years of generosity for the STEINBERG sponsorship you afforded me. I am very grateful.

I thank every artist whoever entrusted me with their creative output and hope I did each of you proud. 

I thank my children for forgiveness I don’t deserve and for the love they felt for me, regardless.

For old dear friends who cared long after I moved on, and for those close friends who endured throughout my life.

Thank you God, for leaving me ears when all else failed me, physically, and now I take my leave. It’s January 4, 2020 at 10:55pm. MJ had to complete this tonight.
It has Been Real!

His wife Mary-Jane Russell left this note on her Facebook page.

Canadian Music Industry Recording Engineer/Producer legend and my partner of 32 years (who I married in late 2018) Nick Blagona, has died at age 74 of complications to kidney, heart and lung disease, last night, January 4th, at St. Joseph’s Hospital in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.

Nick Blagona was in fact Nicolai Nicolaiavich Blagonadegny, of Russian/Prussian heritage.

Nick Blagona is survived by me, Alex Blagona, his wife Joanne Blagona and granddaughter Lilia Blagona all of Ipswich, UK and Anna Blagona and granddaughter Mila Blagona of Toronto, Ontario Canada.

There will be no funeral, to Nick’s wishes.

However he hopes folks who cared will gather and make music together, tell stories, play tunes Nick helped record, raise a glass or smoke a wee bit of him in the Spring, close to his birthday in May, at HALO STUDIO on Augusta St. in downtown Hamilton, thanks to Marcone Music.

Nick Blagona, Uncle Nick, Big Nick, The Tone Guru lived a large life and created a Body of world-class musical output that was magic in both quality and quantity. Nick leaves a legacy so few achieve. Thank you

Media stories: 

• Hamilton Spectator
• 2013 Interview with CHCH
• FYI Music News
• Canadian Musician
• Billboard
• Ultimate Classic Rock
• Guitar.com
• Society of Rock

More comments:

• Roger Glover of Deep Purple
• Michael Lee Jackson's blog.

Here are a few reactions from social media, we will post more when we find them.

Cootes Paradise

It is with profound sadness that we must announce that our beloved friend and record producer, Nick Blagona died last night. We will miss him terribly, and vow to finish the project we started together a few months ago. It was very important to him. We send our deepest condolences to his beautiful and devoted wife, Mary-Jane Russell.

Lily Sazz (Cootes Paradise)

My heart is broken over the loss of my dear friend, Nick Blagona, who died last night. I am among the lucky individuals who called him a close friend. My last visit with him on Wednesday was more than 2 hours of sharing laughter, stories, and deep thoughts of successes and regrets. My husband Paul and I will miss him terribly, and I weep as I write this. Mary-Jane Russell, his wife, showed such love and devotion throughout all of this, and I can only pray that there is some relief together with the grief, knowing that Nick is now free.

Lily also made and posted this video.



Video above courtesy of Lily Sazz

 Dale Harrison (Headstones drummer)

Sad New in Rock History today. Legendary Rock N Roll producer & Engineer Nick Blagona has passed away. RIP.

Nick; I want to thank you for the amazing music you produced through the years, your resume is nothing short of incredible. I remember meeting you in the early 90's taking on a spec project with "Paradise Alley" My first opportunity to work with one of the greats, an you where so freaking cool , Me: are we going to use a click for this track ? .... You : why is your time that bad? Ha .. yah it turned out to be a hell of a track.. thank you for that brother! Also in that time I had the privilege to meet your lovely wife MJ, you two are such an awesome couple always kind and always had encouraging things to say to me which helped me get to where I am. Gracias! Through the years we stayed in touch and kept running into each other, from Ian Gillan's Deep Purple concerts, Tea Party recordings in Metal Werks, while I was tracking with Headstones and later mastering for us. Most recent collaboration with Tommy Grasley. I wish the circumstances were different but with life comes death. You where loved by all who know you and the work you have done is timeless art that will be appreciated forever! Until we meet again brother. Love and respect .

Bill Dillon

Last words from a man last night with a recording history that others could only dream of, and many in the business of recording, with the highest credentials, hold in esteem and reverence the body of work Nick left behind, a quick look at his discography would reveal many hundreds of famous albums, artists and hit singles too long to list here, but we've All heard them thru our lives.

I worked on only two relatively small projects with Nick and throughout those short weeks the stories and experiences he would share were also the stuff dreams are made of.
Nick helped make dreams come true for soo many artists globally, it's no stretch to say he left behind a major portion of what we've come to know as the recording industry,he was a key figure in its on going success. I'll take a chance here to speak on behalf of all of us in the business around the world in wishing him God bless and thank you Nick.

Duane Rutter

Nick mixed and mastered my 2015 album Crazy Things and I was over the moon to have him do it. Not only was Nick is a legend who will be dearly missed, but he was a helluva great guy.

Mary, our family and I wish to extend our most heartfelt condolences to the wonderful Mary-Jane Russell as well as all of Nick’s family and many friends. 

Patricia Lynn (Buckshot) Bebee

Thank you Nick for giving everything you've got to our musical community. I will be forever grateful that you mixed and mastered "Merchants of Youth" and for suggesting I go on tour with Nina Haugen - lol. You got me and I was so lucky to have gotten to know you...read your silly jokes and know that we just lost a genious! Your spirit will live on......may you rest in peace. Love Lynn. 

TommyGunn

Nick Blagona. A LEGEND.
I was fortunate to work with Nick a number of times. He was funny and brilliant. I loved hearing his stories. His mix and mastering was both genius and magical.

Nick was a generous man. One evening he introduced me to Deep Purple in Hamilton. As we were being introduced, my friend Tom Browner and I experienced the true Love of brothers and true friends when Ian Gillian, Nick and Mary-Jane we’re reunited. You could feel the love.Looking back it was the last time they would see each other after Decades of work. Our favourite songs.

He was “The Tone Guru.”
Nick, I will miss you. Until we meet again,
Keep on ROCKIN. XO 

Blast from the Past: Nick Wins 2016 Hamilton Music Award

Links: Nick Blagona, More Nick Blagona Stories, Videos above courtesy of Bridge The Atlantic

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