Showing posts with label Michael Hickey. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Michael Hickey. Show all posts

Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Throwback Thursday: April Foolery - Justin Timberlake Recruits Local Musicians For Blues CD

Update of 2009 Post

Pop Superstar Justin Timberlake certainly knows where to find great blues musicians. He'll be working with some Hamilton talent for his new blues CD.

In a move that stunned the music world, Timberlake has turned his back on pop/dance music. "I'm sick of all the repetitive, cookie cutter, shallow, repetitive s#!+," he said.

"I've been feeling down for a while now, " he added, "I didn't want the fame, the prestige, the riches, the groupies - so becoming a Blues musician seemed to be the best choice."

A Google search landed him at this very blog where he discovered the great talent that Hamilton and Burlington had to offer.

To record his new CD, he recruited guitarist James Anthony. "This is a dream come true!" James said enthusiastically, "I have all his CDs, including his stuff with N Sync - not to mention all the posters on my wall!"

James is joined by Dale Park on drums (returning to drumming just for this project), Michael Hickey on bass, and Lou Campanella (TNT Bluesmen, Hammertones) on harp. Also in the band are Justin's rumoured love interest, Lily Sazz on keyboards and Loretta Hale on trumpet (who some say is also seeing the pop star).

This amazing band has already recorded two songs: "Britney Done Left Me"and "Wardrobe Malfunction Blues".

As a transition from his old style to his new one, Justin has decided to re-record his mega-hit SexyBack as a folky blues song with the help of Alfie Smith.

"I sing that song in the shower all the time!" Alfie exclaimed, "It'll be a privilege to finally record it."

The album will be rushed into production soon to prevent illegal downloading. It should be out in late April. "Fools will think this is impossible," Justin explains, "But they'll see I can sing the blues with the best of them."

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Wednesday, February 22, 2023

Throwback Thursday! Trickbag 35th Anniversary Edition

This is part of our recurring series of 'Throwback Thursday' posts where we celebrate the wonderful past of the local music scene (specifically pre-2000). If you know of any videos, old posters, trivia bites, etc that would be perfect for this, please email us at blueshamilton@gmail.com

Local Blues legends, Trickbag will be turning 35 this year so we're celebrating along with them. Their official 35th anniversary celebration will be Sunday, February 26, 3-6pm at Stonewalls. They'll be joined by Smoke Wagon Blues Band.


Pictures courtesy of Trickbag

Biographical Bits






Tuesday, January 19, 2021

Thursday, June 18, 2020

Hamilton Photographer Ivan Sorensen Passes


It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Hamilton photographer Ivan Sorensen. He was a mainstay of the Hammer's vibrant music scene. We do not have many details yet but will post them here. Our condolences to his family, friends and fans.

A word from Lou, our blogger:
I met Ivan many times going to the same event. We became friends and he always had a smile on his face and loved his work. He had great enthusiasm when he saw great live local music. I'll miss him terribly.
The was a huge outpouring of grief on social media. Here's a sampling:

Terra Lightfoot
To my friend Ivan: I'll miss you so! Your kind smile, the way you yelled "HEY YOU, GET OVER HERE!" at Supercrawl before we even knew each other.... so you could show me some photos you had taken of the band....we got on so easily from there on out....You were a truly talented man and I'm better for knowing you. Thanks for capturing me at my best so many times. Sending love to your family.
Michael Hickey
I am sad to hear of the passing of Ivan Sorensen....good guy and a great photographer. Most of us performing musicians here have been captured by his lens....always in a unique way....never one to draw attention to himself he focused on us...I'm sad we lost him and his talent....I'll miss seeing him "snapping off a few" at shows.... Rest in Peace Ivan...and thank you....
Kristen Archer (I Heart Hamilton)
You will be missed, Ivan Sorensen ❤ I am so sorry for the loss of a Hamilton creative who captured our music scene so beautifully. Ivan was a staple in festival stage pits and at concerts, and I got to know him better while working with Supercrawl in 2018. Ivan's long hours spent on the ground and in the pit always impressed me and he had such a special eye.
It means a lot to have a photo through Ivan's eyes. Live music shots of Ivan's are some of my favourites. My heart goes out to Ivan's family and friends, and I thank him for his wonderful art and his kindness.
Below  is a sampling of his incredible work.





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Tuesday, November 19, 2019

CONGRATS! Catching Up with the Hamilton Musicians Guild Honourees



It's been a while since we've updated the list of artists that the Hamilton Musicians' Guild have been honouring at their general meetings.

Here's a quick rundown:

September 30, 2019

June 3, 2019
  • Steve Beach (vocals, keys, Trickbag): Life Membership Certificate and Pin
  • Andrew Uranowski (conductor, Concordia Pops Orchestra): AFM Life Membership Certificate and Pin
  • Joey Dimarco (drummer, The Collective R&B):  AFM Life Membership Certificate and Pin



    Video above courtesy of Joey "Pocket" DiMarco

  • Peter MacDonald: Life Membership Certificate and Pin
  • Bob Richardson: Certificate of Live Membership
  • Jon Richardson: 25 Year AFM Membership Pin
  • Diane Kennedy: 25 Year AFM Membership Pin
November 26, 2019

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    Friday, October 25, 2019

    Hamilton's Shawn O'Halloran Passes


    It is with sadness that we announce the passing of the talented Hamilton musician, Shawn O'Halloran. He passed away on Thursday, October 24, 2019 . Our condolences to his family, friends and fans.

    Click here for his obituary.

    Shawn was a veteran of the area music scene and had played with Crowbar, King Biscuit Boy, Trickbag, the StingraysNeon Moonand was a celebrated solo act as well.

    A word from Lou, our blogger
    I was lucky enough to meet Shawn on a number of occasions and considered him a good friend. He was extremely friendly and humble plus had immense musical talent. I will miss him terribly.
    There was lots of social media reaction to his passing. Here are a few examples. We will add more as we discover them.

    Michael Hickey
    I was glad to have played with him in Trickbag all those years ago...the original Trickbag. Paul and Donna...Larry and Lindsey Shawn and me....The last show I played with Shawn was a CD release show for his last recording...included in that band our friend Carl Horton....also not with us any more. So sad. My pal Michael J. Birthelmer had been working on a new CD of Shawn's...he was a good songwriter...that CD is almost done...so I'm told...you know something? sometimes life seems so unfair...mostly we font get a chance to say goodbye...but we do get to remember the music....rest Shawn...God Bless....
    Bill Dillon
    We'd just finished an album that he sang some backgrounds for, he did a beautiful job, what a gorgeous voice, such a lovely guy,, and I was to play on a track for Shawn's yet to be finished and mixed record.
    A lifelong member of Hamilton's music community and dear close friend to so many left in shock today, we just turn around and they're gone. 
    Thank you Shawn for your friendship, your fine example, and your gift to all.
    There's a special place for you now, our hearts.
    George Bakhuis (Neon Moon)
    A sad day for NEON MOONERS. Shawn O'Halloran who was our bass player for a few years in NEON MOON passed away. He will be sadly missed by all who knew him. Our condolences to Shawn's family and friends.
     James Anthony
    He was the bass player in my Father in law Ernie Vargas band years ago and I played with him a few times also. Great guy. I wish I knew him better. I took him up to Gravenhurst once for a weeks gig.





    Links: Shawn O'Halloran, More Shawn O'Halloran Stories, Videos above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers

    Blast from the Past: Shawn's Jumpin' the Gun on Mardis Grad Album Review

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    Monday, March 11, 2019

    Hamilton's Ronnie Copple Passes


    It is with sadness that we announce the passing of Hamilton musician Ronnie Copple, who died on March 6, 2019.  Ronnie was a veteran artist who worked with the legendary King Biscuit Boy, Jack de Keyzer and many others. He was a familiar face at the Blues With a Feeling fundraisers where he'd play as people were coming in to the venue. Our condolences to his family, friends and fans.

    Check out this wonderful article from his former bandmate Doug Carter!



    Links: Ron CoppleMore Ron Copple StoriesTrickbagMore Trickbag Stories, Video above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers 

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    Wednesday, August 22, 2018

    Hamilton's Wayne Krawchuk Creates Fascinating, Stunning Album


    Love Hopped a Train, the newest awe-inspiring album from talented Hamilton singer/songwriting Wayne Krawchuk is like a musical getaway.  Every song is a wonderful destination filled with fascinating sounds and flavours. It's well worth the trip.

    You'll travel through country back rounds, Cajun hot spots and even get a taste of home with a song about legendary Hamilton Bluesman Jackie Washington. Other stops include Folk, Blues, Jazz, Soul and more. Wayne's marvelous lyrics guide you through this incredible journey.

    He's assembled an amazing array of local talent to help him on this stunning album. This includes Michael Hickey (bass), Ed Roth (keyboards + accordion), Ron Cole (keyboards + accordion), Joe Clark (mandolin, banjo, fiddle), Randall Hill (banjo), Matt Coleman (violin), Brian Griffith (guitar), Sean O'Grady (drums), Steve Sinnicks (drums), Jay Burr (tuba, trombone), Les Smith (harmonica), Carol Greene (lead/background vocals), Daniel Krawchuk of Flat 5 (bass), Ruth Sutherland (harp, background vocals), Michael J. Birthelmer (guitars, keyboards, mandolin, producer) as well as Audrey Hensen, Christine Roarke, Sue Leonard and Brennagh Burns (background vocals).

    To explore this unbelievable music, pick up the CD at any of Wayne's shows or contact him at waynekrawchuk@gmail.com. The first few have beautiful hand-crafted packaging.

    Blast from the Past: Videos by Wayne and Others





    Links: Wayne KrawchukMore Wayne Krawchuk Stories,  Videos above courtesy of Hamilton Blues LoversMore Releases

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    Wednesday, June 20, 2018

    Incredible Music @ the 2018 Pine Street Concert Series


    The Pine Street Concert Series always offer the most incredible, intimate music experiences around. It's all held in a beautiful outdoor garden. To reserve your tickets email birthelmer@sympatico.ca or call 905-522-1409.

    Here is this year's schedule, along with a few videos:

    CANCELLED: Saturday July 7, 8pm: Wayne Krawchuk w Michael Hickey, Ron Cole, Randall Hill, Michael J Birthelmer



    Links: Wayne KrawchukMore Wayne Krawchuk Stories, Video above courtesy of Hamilton Blues Lovers

    DATE CHANGE: Sunday July 15, 7pm: Tom Wilson w Ralph Nicolle of the Folk Sinners (Opener)



    Links:Lee Harvey Osmond aka Tom Wilson, More Lee Harvey Osmond StoriesVideo above courtesy of LeE HARVeY OsMOND

    Saturday July 28, 8pm: Michael J Birthelmer w Michael Hickey, Ed Roth, Bill Dillon



    Links: Michael BirthelmerMore Michael Birthelmer StoriesVideo above courtesy of skumm60

    Saturday August 18, 8pm Rick Andrew and Dave Rave



    Links: Dave RaveMore Dave Rave StoriesMore Rick Andrew StroriesVideo above courtesy of Andrea Cassis

    Thursday August 30th,  7pm: Ladybird Animal Sanctuary Summer Songs (Songwriters-In-The-Round) ft Suzie Vinnick, Sarah Beatty, Lisa Winn, Janine Stoll

    Click here for more footage of the Pine Street Garden Concerts

    Previous (Downchild Foundinng Bassist Jim Milne Passes) - - - Next (Summer Music Videos)

    Tuesday, January 23, 2018

    Footage from Trickbag's First Live Performance on YouTube!


    Former Trickbag bassist Michael Hickey recently posted footage of the band's first ever live performance on his YouTube page. The gig took place on February 3, 1990 at the Leander Boat Club (it would eventually become the Bay City Music Hall).

    At the time, the band featured Hickey with Shawn O'Halloran on vocals/acoustic guitar and Lindsay Harnett on guitar along with current members Donna Panchezak (vocals), Paul Panchezak (drums) and Larry Feudo (guitar/harmonica).







    Links: TrickbagMore Trickbag Stories, Videos above courtesy of Michael Hickey

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    Saturday, May 2, 2015

    Mark McNeil Brings Hamilton History to Musical Life on < Flashbacks >


    History lessons don't have to be boring and dull, especially with Hamilton's colourful past.  The Hammer's Mark McNeil and his band of musical historians have taken the city's most interesting tales and brought them to vivid life on Flashbacks,

    The CD is an extension of James Street, the incredible musical written by Mark. This Hamilton Music Award nominated album will tell you true tales about infamous alleged killer Evelyn Dick, a crazy monkey called Jacko, Einstein's brain, and Hamilton's military past.  History was never this fun!

    Mark has enlisted some amazing Steeltown talent to add amazing music to these wonderful stories: Michael Hickey (bass), Paul Panchezak of Trickbag (drums/percussion), Jeff Griffiths (drums), Steve Parisien (guitar), Jay Burr (tuba/trombone), Charly Chiarelli (harmonica), Steve Fuller (fiddle), Cyndi Devereux (fiddle), Geoff Somers (fiddle), Allison Lupton (flute), Gayle Bridger (bodhran/cajon), Major Michael Rehill and the RHLI Military Band, Orange McFarland (bass). Background vocals by Mike Trebilcock, Paula Grove, Jon Gordon OdegaardKris Rochard and Scott Cameron Smith.

    Copies of his historical CD can be picked up at  The Hamilton Store and the front Desk of the Hamilton Spectator building or ordered online vie The Spec Store,   Downloads are available through Bandcamp.







    Blast from the Past: Videos from the Musical James Street

    Links: Mark McNeilMore Mark McNeil stories, Videos above courtesy of Hamilton Blues LoversMore Releases

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    Saturday, April 25, 2015

    You'll Find Beautiful Vocals and Sweet Soul on 'Leonard Burns & Dell' Debut EP


    Separately, local performers Sue LeonardBrennagh Burns and Cindy Dell are three of the most talented solo musicians around.  When these ladies connect together, they forge an unmistakable, powerful folk sound packed with sultry blues and sweet soul!  The trio, now known as Leonard Burns & Dell have released their debut EP (from Sonic Magpie Records) titled after their former band name, Perfect Strangers.

    With an impressive mix of amazing vocal stylings, LBD take each well-crafted song and give it a grit and shine all its own.  On top of of everything, these singer/songwriters offer up some beautiful, angelic harmonies.

    Joining them is a team of fabulous area musicians: Andrew Aldridge (guitar), Michael Birthelmer (guitar, piano, mandolin co-producer, mixer, engineer), Ed Roth (accordion), Michael Hickey (bass), Sean O'Grady (drums), and Tom Wells (drums).

    Pick up a CD at their wonderful live shows or order via the Sonic Magpie Store (downloads available).  If you prefer, it can also be purchased through iTunes.





    Blast from the Past: LBD and Others@Pearl Company Fundraiser

    Links: Leonard Burns Dell, More LBD StoriesMore ReleasesVideos above courtesy of Michael Hickey

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    Saturday, November 15, 2014

    Hamilton Loses Brian Griffith, One of Its Guitar Giants


    It is with sadness that we announce the passing of the super-talented Hamilton guitarist Brian Griffith.  He passed away in his sleep on Friday, November 14, 2014.  Condolences to his family, friends and fans.

    In a city full of amazing guitarists, he was one of the most in demand and sought after players.  The man could play country, soul, blues, rock, reggae and anything that was thrown at him - he was a true professional.  His amazing work led him to team up with such international stars as Emmylou Harris, Willie Nelson, Daniel Lanois and more.

    Brian was also one of the most beloved figures in the Steeltown musical scene. His good nature and generosity as a musician will always be remembered.

    A word from Lou, our blogger: "I'm sad to hear of the passing of my friend Brian.  I had seen him numerous times with different musicians and he always knocked it out of the park.  On top of that, he always had a smile and a laugh to share with me.  Brian's good nature was infectious.  I'll truly miss him"

    The outpouring of love on social media was incredible.

    Harrison Kennedy: " I am heartbroken deeply. He played anything and everything well on any guitar."

    Shawn Brush: "Brian was a fine human being and will be missed by many. He would often greet me with a hug or a kiss on the forehead. He was a friend and a fan who admired and encouraged me with my music. I will miss him, but will endeavor to keep his presence alive and felt through my performances. I know there are many people that will miss him."

    Paul Langille: "A kind gentle man with a wicked sense of humour, and one of the most talented musicians I have ever had the honour of working with."

    Robin Benedict: "There is a dark cloud that is overwhelming my city tonight and forever!! Brian Griffith, you have been such a light in this Musically electric place and you have made your mark all over the world!"

    Tomi Swick: "We lost one of the most amazing beautiful people and players any of us will ever know, I have your words on my skin brother. No matter where we go no matter what we do we will always be brothers of the wind."

    Michael Hickey: "If one could hear love...you could certainly hear it in every note Brian played."

    Paul Panchezak (Trickbag): "His phenomenal talent was surpassed by his beautiful soul. He was always an encouraging friend. A gentle man. And a gentleman. We loved sharing the latest boxing news when our paths crossed. I can't believe he's gone."

    Justin Sawicki: "Brian Griffith was a pillar in the Hamilton music scene. He was was the first act I saw when I moved to Hamilton just over a decade ago. I can remember seeing him play for the first time and thinking it was impossible to do what he did with a guitar, yet somehow those impossible notes were flowing mightily out of his fingers. You will be missed dearly in this Steel Town. Your town."



    Video above courtesy of Stellablu477



    Links: Lori YatesMore Lori Yates StoriesVideo above courtesy of Michael Hickey

    Blast from the Past: Brian Griffith Performs With Friends at Pine Street Gardens

    Links: Brian Griffith, More Brian Griffith Stories

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