Today (September 6, 2025) would have been American Blues Legend Jimmy Reed's 100th birthday.
Biographical highlights (from Wikipedia)
Links: Mel Brown, More Mel Brown Stories, Video above courtesy of Dimitris KoutsiaftisMr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to a man who played a key role in developing Waterloo region's music scene.In the late 1980s, Mel Brown relocated to Kitchener, Ontario after a long career playing guitar for some of the biggest names in music. Willie Nelson, John Lee Hooker, Etta James, Bobby Bland and Waylon Jennings are just a few.Mel's arrival put our community on the music map. It was common for blues greats like B.B. King to show up unannounced just to share a stage with Mel.When blues great Buddy Guy last played in Kitchener, he said, “It's just you, me and B.B. left now”. At the annual Kitchener Blues Festival, talent from around the world looked forward to the private event where Mel played for the musicians and volunteers.Mel Brown died in St. Mary's Hospital on March 20. He leaves behind his wife and musical partner, Miss Angel, two children, seven grandchildren and tens of thousands of fans.Today we mourn the loss of Mel Brown, even as we celebrate his life and legacy. To those who loved him, our hearts are extended.
From the Kitchener Blues Festival website:
MAY 12TH 2021 – MEL BROWN BLUES AWARD
The Kitchener Blues Festival Board of Directors is pleased to announce that the 2021 Recipient of the Mel Brown Blues Award is John Lee.
John has had an exemplary career as a blues musician, having been a touring member of The Dutch Mason Blues Band, Matt Minglewood and Mel Brown and the Homewreckers.
John has worked with many other musicians throughout his career and has appeared on many recordings, as both a musician and recording engineer/producer.
John has mentored countless musicians over the years, and is an instructor at the annual Grand River Blues Camp. He is currently working on his own CD that will be available soon as a digital download.
John sings vocals on the song below.
Links: Pappy Johns Band, More Pappy Johns Band Stories, Video above courtesy of The Pappy Johns Band - Topic
Links: Mel Brown, More Mel Brown Stories, Video above courtesy of johnleekeys
Links: Cheryl Lescom, More Cheryl Lescom Stories, Video above courtesy of Dave Sloane
Previous Years' Winners
I've always thought Jimmy Witherspoon was the quintessential war time blues singer. He had that great big band timeless shout blues style that could also get low down and soulful with the jazz cats. Hope he's belting it out for his 100th in that big ol' gig in the sky....
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| Photo courtesy of Jimmy's site. |
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