Balmoral Blues

Today on Balmoral Blues we’ll hear from Missoula, MT-based band MudSlide Charley. Their sound is a nostalgic blend of gutbucket blues and roots rock that recalls the Southern stylings of John Lee Ho**er and Muddy Waters. The group is made up of Marco Littig on slide guitar and vocals, Liza Ginnings on lead vocals, Paul Kelley on vocals and bass, Roger Moquin on drums, Phil Hamilton on harmonica and sax, and Russ Parsons on piano and organ. They refer to their sound as a ‘musical gumbo’ that brings together a rich assortment of instruments and styles to bring a modern twist to the classic sounds of the blues. The band writes and performs original songs and are a staple on the festival circuit. They have released six albums including their newest, “Main Street”, which hit shelves and streaming on June 15.

Today’s show also features Los Angeles-based band Kelly's Lot. Formed in 1994 by folk artist Kelly Zirbes, the group are still playing their distinctive blend of blues, rock, and folk music 30 years later. Zirbes got her musical start from her mother, who she would often hear crying when she listened to blues albums late at night. From this a young Zirbes gathered that the blues were a way to work through your emotions. Joined by guitarist and producer Perry Robertson, who adds a Southern, Texas blues influence, the group is rounded out by bass player Matt McFadden, Mike Sauer and Art Mendoza on drums, keyboardist Mo Beeks, and Frank ‘Cisco’ Hinojosa on harmonica, as well as a roster of guest musicians on horns. Zirbes’ lyrics focus on survival and finding the positive in life’s difficult situations, an attitude she aims to bring to all of her live shows and recordings. The group are a mainstay on the festival circuit, and have toured throughout the US and Europe. They have released 16 albums including their latest, “The Blues Remind Me”, on July 12.

Also on today’s show are Colin James, Joe Bonamassa feat. MAHALIA BARNES + THE SOUL MATES, Sugaray Rayford, Chicago Blues Lifters, Smokey Wilson, Queen Sylvia Embry, Amanda Fish, Bill Nadeau, Mary Lane, The Honey Badgers, and Lightnin Rod & The Thunderbolts.

To hear today’s episode tune to CKVS-FM 93.7 - Voice of the Shuswap in Salmon Arm on Sun 6pm, Tue 2pm, & Thu 9am PT; CFBX 92.5 FM "The X" in Kamloops Wed noon & Sun 7am PT; CFIS-FM in Prince George on Sat 3pm PT; CKLU FM in Sudbury on Tue 5pm ET; CHBB-FM - Voice of Bonne Bay in Newfoundland and Labrador on Mon noon NT.

Today on Balmoral Blues we’ll hear from the Memphis Royal Brothers . A supergroup assembled in Clarksdale, Mississippi, the band brings together the Mississippi Delta Blues, R&B, Memphis Soul, and rock and roll to create a unique sound all their own. Overseen by veteran producers Lawrence Boo Mitchell and Willie Mitchell with co-producer Richard Bolen, the lineup includes principal singer Marcus Scott of Tower of Power, joined by Bobby Rush, Jim Lauderdale official , Charlie Musselwhite Fan Page, Wendy Moten, and Lil’ Rounds. Instrumentalists include Luther Dickinson, the Memphis Horns, Charles Hodges and Lester Snell, with many other guest musicians often featured. Songwriters Gary Bolen and Wes Hamil craft the group’s original songs. The band’s formation was inspired by the documentary Take Me to the River, which was filmed at the Mitchell brothers’ Royal Recording Studio in Memphis. Brothers Gary and Richard Bolen proposed the idea of bringing together a namesake band, and the Memphis Royal Brothers was born. At its heart the Royal Brothers are a huge family of talented artists who love the blues and love making music together. The group released their debut, self-titled album on July 26. Photo by Jen Klask.

Today we’ll also hear from another supergroup, the Chicago Blues Lifters. Based in the Windy City and steeped in Chicago sound, the group brings together an all-star lineup of artists including vocalists Kimberly Johnson, Oscar Wilson and Mike Avery, bassists Bob Stroger and Ari Seder, guitar and vocalists Billy Flynn and Joey J. Saye Music, pianist ‘Piano’ Willie Oshawny, and percussionist Kenny 'Beedy Eyes' Smith. They have collaborated with blues greats including Eric Clapton and Buddy Guy. The group’s multi-talented lineup brings together veteran blues musicians, current stars, and up-and-coming greats for an experience of the Chicago sound that is authentic and dynamic. Their commitment to preserving the legacy and authenticity of the blues is evident in their music and their live performances. The group’s newest album, “Blues Scouts”, blends music with visual art through the artwork used for the album’s cover, a painting also titled “Blues Scouts”. Within the composition are hidden messages and clues that encourage the audience to pair their listening experience with a visual journey. The album hit shelves and streaming on July 12.

Also on today’s show are Tarheel Slim, Rosie's Smokehouse Deluxe, John Stephan Band, Seasick Steve, Ron Beer, Othman Wahabi, Mick Kolassa, Big Mike Aguirre, The Cinelli Brothers, Billy Price, Eddie Cotton, Jr., and Rory Gallagher.

To hear today’s episode tune to CKVS-FM 93.7 - Voice of the Shuswap in Salmon Arm on Sun 6pm, Tue 2pm, & Thu 9am PT; CFBX 92.5 FM "The X" in Kamloops Wed noon & Sun 7am PT; CFIS-FM in Prince George on Sat 3pm PT; CKLU FM in Sudbury on Tue 5pm ET; CHBB-FM - Voice of Bonne Bay in Newfoundland and Labrador on Mon noon NT.

Today on Balmoral Blues we’ll hear from pioneering English blues-rock musician, songwriter, and producer John Mayall . Known as the Godfather of English Blues, Mayall was born in Cheshire, England in 1933. His father was a guitarist playing in local pubs, and Mayall took an early interest in American blues and jazz. He taught himself to play the piano, harmonica and guitar. As a young man he was conscripted to the British Army, spending a tour in Korea. During a period of leave he bought his first electric guitar in Japan. After finishing his service, he returned to England and enrolled in the Manchester College of Art. Following graduation he worked for a time as a designer, but in 1963 chose to pursue music full-time and moved to London. He is credited with helping to introduce American-style blues and jazz to the British music scene.

Throughout his career Mayall was known for recruiting a who’s who of talented musicians. Establishing himself as a mentor figure, he was instrumental to the careers of many well-known artists. With his band the Bluesbreakers he played with John McVie and Peter Green and Friends, who would go on to form Fleetwood Mac; Eric Clapton, and Mick Taylor, who later joined The Rolling Stones; as well as Coco Montoya, Walter Trout, and Carolyn Wonderland, among many others.

In 1969 Mayall again relocated, this time to Los Angeles. He continued to record and release music throughout the 1970s, though he struggled to achieve commercial success. He toured throughout the US and Europe, continuing his pattern of hiring talented up-and-coming musicians to accompany him. Over the course of his career he released 35 studio albums, 34 live albums, four EPs and 44 singles. In 2005 he was appointed an OBE by Queen Elizabeth II, and was inducted into the Blues Hall of Fame in 2016. He released his final album, “The Sun is Shining Down”, in 2022. John Mayall passed away at his home in California on July 22. He was 90 years old.

Also on today’s show are Koko Taylor, David Gogo, The Expats, Iadora's Journey, Cephas & Wiggins, Sean Riley & The Water, CHOCA BLUES, Guy Clark, Jason Lane Band, Tom Savage Music, and Damon Fowler.

To hear today’s episode tune to CKVS-FM 93.7 - Voice of the Shuswap in Salmon Arm on Sun 6pm, Tue 2pm, & Thu 9am PT; CFBX 92.5 FM "The X" in Kamloops Wed noon & Sun 7am PT; CFIS-FM in Prince George on Sat 3pm PT; CKLU FM in Sudbury on Tue 5pm ET; CHBB-FM - Voice of Bonne Bay in Newfoundland and Labrador on Mon noon NT.

Today on Balmoral Blues we’ll hear from Texas-born blues and soul singer Sugaray Rayford. Growing up his childhood was an impoverished one; his mother was raising him and his brothers on her own, while battling cancer. After she passed away the boys moved in with their grandparents, whose influence included bringing them to church. There, Rayford got his musical start singing and playing drums, and his music continues to have a gospel influence. Eventually he joined the Marines, spending ten years in military life. After relocating to the San Diego area, he began singing with R&B and funk band the Urban Gypsys. And then as frontman with Temecula-area blues band Aunt Kizzy’s Boyz, playing over 200 gigs a year. In 2011 he joined the Mannish Boys; the previous year he had released his first solo album, “Blind Alley”, followed by “Dangerous” in 2013. In 2019 Rayford won Soul Blues Male Artist of the Year at the 40th Blues Music Awards. Known for his gravelly, emotive voice, he has released 7 albums including his latest, “Human Decency”, which hit shelves and streaming in June.

Today we’ll also hear from blues-rock power duo Campbell & Johnston. Hailing from Halifax, the pair combine vintage blues, 60s and 70s rock, folk and roots into a unique sound all their own. Songwriter Christine Campbell was raised in PEI, and has released two solo albums in addition to her work with Johnston. A classically trained pianist as well as a guitarist and vocalist, she has toured throughout Canada and opened for well-known Canadian artists including Chantal Kreviazuk and Jann Arden. Blake Johnston is best known as guitarist and lead vocalist for Halifax band The Stogies. Known for his deep voice and emotional lyrics, he brings a strong folk-rock influence to the duo’s sound; Campbell and Johnson are known for blending harmonies and alternating lead vocals, and they perform both as an acoustic duo and with a full electric band. The pair released an EP, “Campbell and Johnston’s Black Market Band”, in 2021, followed by their latest album, “Paisley Hearts”, in 2024.

Today’s show also features Crystal Shawanda, Tanika Charles, Blue Moon Marquee, Rick Estrin and The Nightcats, Brandon Isaak Live, Gary Cain, Big Mama Thornton, Johnny Winter, Coco Montoya, Bad Temper Joe, Chicago Blues Lifters, The Hoodoo Men, and Sierra Green.

To hear today’s episode tune to CKVS-FM 93.7 - Voice of the Shuswap in Salmon Arm on Sun 6pm, Tue 2pm, & Thu 9am PT; CFBX 92.5 FM "The X" in Kamloops Wed noon & Sun 7am PT; CFIS-FM in Prince George on Sat 3pm PT; CKLU FM in Sudbury on Tue 5pm ET; CHBB-FM - Voice of Bonne Bay in Newfoundland and Labrador on Mon noon NT.

Today on Balmoral Blues we’ll hear from New Orleans musician Sierra Green. Born and raised in the city’s 7th ward, she got her musical start singing in her local church choir at the age of 8. The 7th ward is known for fostering musical talent, and Ward grew up in a community atmosphere that spawned stars like Frank Ocean and Mannie Fresh. As a teen she began busking on Frenchman Street, where she started to grow her audience. She soon moved on to the club scene, where she began a residency several nights a week. This is how she met her backing lineup, featuring drummer William West, Paul Provosty on guitar, Mike Perez on bass, and a brass section featuring Brandon Nater on trumpet, David Ludman on sax, and Maurice Cade on trombone.The group quickly released their first EP, “The Torch Sessions”. Known for her sultry, early Motown-inspired vocals, Green believes strongly in the power of change through music. The group released their first full-length album, “Here We Are”, on June 21.

Today we’ll also hear from Canadian-born, Austin-based guitarist and singer-songwriter Gary Cain. Drawn to music from an early age, as a teen he would often spend 14-hour sessions practicing in his parents’ basement. He was soon playing the blues club scene around Ontario where he was scouted by a talent agent, leading to a house-band gig at a nightclub in Dubai. After returning to Canada he began focussing on his own original material, and released his debut album, “Twangadelic Bluesophunk”. The success of this album led to multiple international tours, and semifinalist wins at the International Blues Challenge and the Six String Theory Music Competition guitar competition, as well as an opening gig for George Thorogood & The Destroyers. Shortly before the pandemic, he made the move to Austin, Texas. Using COVID lockdowns to his advantage, Cain spent his time writing and practicing, ultimately releasing his second album, “Next Stop”. Known for his non-traditional approach to the blues and powerful guitar playing, he released his third and latest album, “Outside the Lines”, in May.

Also on today’s show are Willie Nix, David Gogo, Chris Cain Blues Guitarist, CHOCA BLUES, Billy Price, Keith Richards, Eddie Cotton, Rick Vito, FABULOUS THUNDERBIRDS, Colin James, Staples Jr. Singers, Shemekia Copeland, and Jerry Lee Lewis.

To hear today’s episode tune to CKVS-FM 93.7 - Voice of the Shuswap in Salmon Arm on Sun 6pm, Tue 2pm, & Thu 9am PT; CFBX 92.5 FM "The X" in Kamloops Wed noon & Sun 7am PT; CFIS-FM in Prince George on Sat 3pm PT; CKLU FM in Sudbury on Tue 5pm ET; CHBB-FM - Voice of Bonne Bay in Newfoundland and Labrador on Mon noon NT.

Today on Balmoral Blues we’ll hear from Mississippi blueswoman Eden Brent. Born in Greenville, MS. in 1965, Brent is an accomplished blues pianist and vocalist, reminiscent of early blueswomen including Bessie Smith and Aretha Franklin. Her family worked on the Mississippi riverboats, and her home life was filled with music on vinyl and reel-to-reel. Her grandmother began teaching her the piano at 3, and she received her first guitar at age 9. Brent spent her childhood singing in school plays and entertaining at retirement homes. Drawing on these early influences, her style combines elements of jazz, boogie-woogie, pop, soul, and gospel. At the age of 16, Brent met blues and jazz pianist Abie “Boogaloo” Ames. She began attending his shows, teaching herself to play in his style and eventually apprenticing with him. Ames gave her the nickname “Little Boogaloo” for her ability to play like him. Brent and Ames continued to work together until his death in 2002. She attended the University of North Texas, studying piano and voice and earning a degree in music theory. In 2006 she won the The Blues Foundation’s International Blues Challenge. A regular on the festival circuit both at home and abroad, Brent has released 6 albums including her newest, “Getaway Blues”, which hit shelves and streaming on June 21. Photo by Lilly_M.

Today we’ll also hear from Indigenous Toronto blues and folk artist DM Lafortune. Adopted as an infant by a Catholic family, LaFortune’s Indigenous birth mother was told she had died. Her adoptive family were unable to hide their disappointment with the traumatized, artistic child they were raising, leading to a dysfunctional and painful childhood. She began pursuing music in high school, starting with piano and then switching to guitar. A job at a graphics firm screen-printing album covers further exposed her to Toronto’s music scene, and led to meetings with a community of artists and local musicians. She also began hanging out on riverboats, where she met fellow artist Neil Chapman, with whom she has collaborated for 50 years. She began playing the local coffee house and club scene, and soon had regular gigs at Fat Albert's Coffee House and the Backyard Cafe. Her interest in social justice led her to pursue law school but, still struggling to reconcile her childhood trauma and issues of identity, she continued to write music even as she was called to the bar in 1996. She released her first album, “In From the Cold”, the same year. Unsatisfied with the first recording, she re-released it in 2012. Now, in 2024, she is preparing to put out another re-release, this time honouring the album’s 25th anniversary.

Today’s show also features music from Lisa "Little Baby" Andersen, Campbell & Johnston, Larissa Baumann, Big Smokey Smothers, Clarence "Bluesman" Davis, Chris Cain Blues Guitarist, Paul Cafcae, Damon Fowler, Kenny "Blues Boss" Wayne & Steve Cropper, FABULOUS THUNDERBIRDS ft. Bonnie Raitt, Keb' Mo' and Taj Mahal, Jen Ambrose, and Dave Alvin & Jimmie Dale Gilmore.

To hear today’s episode tune to CKVS-FM 93.7 - Voice of the Shuswap in Salmon Arm on Sun 6pm, Tue 2pm, & Thu 9am PT; CFBX 92.5 FM "The X" in Kamloops Wed noon & Sun 7am PT; CFIS-FM in Prince George on Sat 3pm PT; CKLU FM in Sudbury on Tue 5pm ET; CHBB-FM - Voice of Bonne Bay in Newfoundland and Labrador on Mon noon NT.

Today on Balmoral Blues

Today on Balmoral Blues we’ll hear from San Francisco blues band Rick Estrin and The Nightcats. Frontman Rick Estrin is a vocalist, harmonica player and songwriter. Born in San Francisco, his sister gifted him a Ray Charles record when he was 12, kickstarting a lifelong obsession with blues and R&B. He received his first harmonica at 15 and, by 18, was sitting in at clubs throughout the city. He soon began playing 5 nights a week in a band fronted by bluesman Fillmore Slim, and was mentored by singer Rodger Collins. Estrin moved to Chicago at 19 to immerse himself in the blues. During that time he played with greats including Muddy Waters and Johnny Littlejohn . Ultimately he returned to the Bay Area in 1973 and formed Little Charlie & the Nightcats with guitarist Charlie Baty, playing with that band for the next 30 years. When Baty retired in 2008, Kid Andersen came aboard as guitarist and producer, joining existing band members Lorenzo Farrell on keyboards and bass, and J. Hansen on drums. Together they became Rick Estrin and the Nightcats, and were later joined by new drummer D'mar MusicOnline.

Known for their high-energy live shows, the band is anchored by Estrin’s songwriting and vocals. Their showmanship is bolstered by Andersen’s intense guitar playing (he also produces the group’s albums), Farrell’s multi-talented and versatile abilities on bass and keyboards, and Martin’s acrobatic percussion style. They have recorded 6 studio albums including their latest, “The Hits Keep Coming”, released on May 10.

Also on today’s show are Johnny Burgin, Long John Baldry, Chantal Chamberland, Bluesshack, Celso Salim & Darryl Carriere Music, Nicholas Alexander Blues Band, Lyle Odjick & The Northern Steam, John Primer & Bob Corritore, Robert "Lefty Preacher" Sampson, Antar Goodwin, Susan Santos, Glenn Marais & The Mojo Train, and James M Harman.

To hear today’s episode tune in at 6pm Sun, 2pm Tues & 9am PST Thurs at CKSV-FM 93.7 in the Shuswap, 3pm PST Sat at CFIS RADIO - PRINCE GEORGE in British Columbia, 5pm EST Tues at CKLU FM in Sudbury, and 12pm NST Tues on Voice of Bonne Bay in Newfoundland.

Today on Balmoral Blues we’ll hear from Canadian singer-songwriter, guitarist and harmonica player Big Dave McLean. Born in Saskatchewan and later raised in Winnipeg, MB, McLean’s mother was a classical pianist and his father was a minister. He was introduced to blues and folk by his older brother, who had a collection of records. The brothers would later travel to the Mariposa Folk Festival in Toronto, where the young McLean received an impromptu guitar lesson from musician John P. Hammond. As a young man he began playing the club and festival scene in Manitoba, working odd jobs and construction to pay the bills. He released his debut album, “Muddy Waters for President”, in 1989. Over the years he has worked with a who’s who of Canadian blues talent including Colin James and Steve Marriner Music. McLean identifies strongly with the prairies, and has played the festival circuit in Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta. He is perhaps best known for his signature gravelly voice. He is the recipient of multiple awards, including a The JUNO Awards, and has released 8 studio albums including his newest, “This Old Life”, to be released May 3.

Today’s show also features fellow Canadian bluesman, Toronto singer-songwriter and harmonica player Al Lerman. Perhaps best known as the founder and bandleader of Juno-winning Toronto band FATHEAD, Lerman got his start in elementary school where he discovered a lifelong passion for music. Starting at the age of 11 he began going to see Sonny Terry and Brownie McGhee, kindling his interest in the blues. Considered one of the top harmonica players in Canada, Lerman is also known for his extensive knowledge of the blues and his ability to seamlessly cross genres including country, soul, Americana, Chicago and New Orleans blues. Also a longtime member of the Maple Blues Band, he has played with greats including Muddy Waters, Koko Taylor, and The Willie Dixon Fan Page. He has released 5 solo albums and offers ongoing harmonica workshops across the festival circuit. His newest album, “Country Fried Blues”, hit shelves and streaming April 5.

Also on today’s show are Little Magic Sam, Kevin Galway, Sunday Wilde, Mike Goudreau Band, Jeff Rogers Music, Nesrallah Artuso Project, Gerry Jack Macks, Ethan Askey, Heather Luckhart, Garnetta Cromwell, Brad Strang, LJ Mounteney & Brandon Isaak Live, and Erin Ross.

To hear today’s episode tune in at 6pm Sun, 2pm Tues & 9am PST Thurs at CKSV-FM 93.7 in the Shuswap, 3pm PST Sat at CFIS RADIO - PRINCE GEORGE in British Columbia, 5pm EST Tues at CKLU FM in Sudbury, and 12pm NST Tues on Voice of Bonne Bay in Newfoundland.

Today on Balmoral Blues we’ll hear from San Francisco blues singer and guitarist Nick Gravenites. Born into a Greek-American family, Gravenites worked in his family’s candy store as a child. He became a fan of blues music in university, where he met harmonica player Paul Butterfield and guitarist Mike Bloomfield. He began spending his time in both Chicago and San Francisco, patronizing blues clubs in both cities and wrote the song “Born in Chicago”, which became the opening track on the debut Paul Butterfield Blues Band album. After settling in San Francisco in the 1960s, Gravenites formed the Electric Flag band with Bloomfield. As a member of that group he wrote the music for “The Trip”, a 1967 Roger Corman film about L*D. Known as a ‘musical handyman’, he often accompanied various San Francisco bands, and wrote multiple songs for Janis Joplin. He also served as the lead singer of Big Brother and the Holding Company from 1969-72, and toured throughout Europe with Quicksilver Messenger Service guitarist John Cipollina. Also a talented producer, he was instrumental in the creation of songs and albums for numerous artists. Throughout the 1980s he played extensively throughout the Bay Area, and during the 90s he and Cipollina joined forces as Thunder and Lightning. He also toured Greece with English rock musician Pete Sears. Gravenites has released 17 albums including his latest, “Rogue Blues”. He continues to perform live in northern California.

Also on today’s show is Kitchener, Ontario blues artist Shawn Kellerman. Playing the blues since his early teens, he was encouraged to pursue music by his parents, particularly his father, who was the proprietor of Kitchener’s legendary Pop the Gator club. It was through the club that he met guitarist Mel Brown, who became a mentor to him. Well-known as a supporting artist, he worked and toured with famed bluesman Bobby Rush and spent 8 years on the road touring with Lucky Peterson. A prolific collaborator, he draws inspiration from working with other artists, as well as the places he’s visited. A number of songs on his newest album, “Kell’s Kitchen”, were written on a trip to Texas. Having toured throughout 46 different countries, his sound is a blend of influences from his travels, rooted in the blues. He is also known for his high-energy stage presence. Kellerman has released three solo albums. His latest, and his first in 15 years, is 2024’s “Kell’s Kitchen”. Photo by Thesupermat.

Today’s show also features music from Pete Sears - Musician & Charlie Musselwhite, Steve Howell and The Mighty Men, Paul Kaye, Janis Joplin & Hot Tuna - Jorma Kaukonen Fan Club, Bobby Rush, Bonnie Raitt, Robert "Lefty Preacher" Sampson, Cedric Burnside, Rick Estrin and The Nightcats, King Bee and The Stingers, Bobby Parker, JP Soars, Roy Buchanan with Otis Clay, and Harry Orlove.

To hear today’s episode tune in at 6pm Sun, 2pm Tues & 9am PST Thurs at CKSV-FM 93.7 in the Shuswap, 3pm PST Sat at CFIS RADIO - PRINCE GEORGE in British Columbia, 5pm EST Tues at CKLU FM in Sudbury, and 12pm NST Tues on Voice of Bonne Bay in Newfoundland.

Today on Balmoral Blues we’ll hear from Phoenix, AZ based bluesman and harmonica player Bob Corritore. Born in Chicago, Corritore’s introduction to the blues came at the age of 12 when he heard Muddy Waters on the radio. Soon after he was gifted a harmonica by his younger brother, and began teaching himself to play. He spent his high school years attending live concerts whenever he could, spending time with blues musicians, and began playing as an accompanist for other artists before landing his first paid gig at 23. In 1981 he relocated to Phoenix, where he formed a duo with fellow musician Louisiana Red. After Red relocated to Germany, Corritore played with a succession of bands and artists, including Janiva Magness and Buddy Reed and the Rip It Ups. In 1984 he started his radio show, Those Lowdown Blues, which he continues to present. He also maintained a 20-year partnership with former drummer Chico Chism, and opened famed Phoenix blues club the Rhythm Room, which now serves as his home base. Known for his masterful harmonica playing and knowledge of the instrument, he has guested on and produced multiple albums, and released over two dozen of his own. He is an official endorser of Hohner Music, and regularly leads master classes. His most recent album, “Crawlin’ Kingsnake”, is a collaboration with fellow blues musician John Primer. Photo by Blues Alley Photo.

John Primer is a veteran Chicago bluesman. Born in Mississippi to a family of sharecroppers, he got his musical start singing work songs and church spirituals. His father and cousin would play the blues in the evenings after a day of work, establishing Primer’s roots in the tradition. After his father’s death in a truck accident, his mother moved to Chicago for work but couldn’t afford to bring a young John and his sister with her. He began frequenting the nearby woods, where he would work through his feelings by singing, eventually building himself a diddley bow using broom wire and a brick. Once he turned 18 Primer relocated to Chicago, and began playing for tips at the Maxwell Street market. He soon found a place in his first band, The Maintainers with Pat Rushing, and began booking gigs at West Side bars and clubs. A few years later, Primer joined soul and R&B group The Brotherhood Band as a frontman, and soon he was playing every night at South Side club Theresa’s. In 1979 he was invited by famed Chicago bluesman The Willie Dixon Fan Page to join his Chicago Blues All-Stars. Primer toured with the All-Stars for a year, during which time he honed his vocal style and skills as a slide guitarist. In 1980 he achieved a childhood dream when he joined Muddy Waters as guitarist and bandleader for his Legendary Blues Band, a position he held until Waters’ death. He then spent 13 years as bandleader for Magic Slim’s band, The Teardrops. He released his first solo album, “Poor Man’s Blues”, in 1991, and has appeared on over 100 albums, both solo and as an accompanist. Primer has won numerous awards and is considered a blues great. Photo by Marilyn Stringer.

On today’s show we’ll also hear from Lynne Jordan, Altered Five Blues Band, Erin Ross, Rick Payne, Sue Foley, Paul Kaye, Corey Harris Band, Mike Goudreau fan page, Bex Marshall, Seth James, Andy T Band, Rick Vito feat. Steve Marriner Music, Hubert Dorigatti and Bayou Side, and Michael van Merwyk.

To hear today’s episode tune in at 6pm Sun, 2pm Tues & 9am PST Thurs at CKSV-FM 93.7 in the Shuswap, 3pm PST Sat at CFIS RADIO - PRINCE GEORGE in British Columbia, 5pm EST Tues at CKLU FM in Sudbury, and 12pm NST Tues on Voice of Bonne Bay in Newfoundland.

Today on Balmoral Blue we’ll hear from Canadian singer-songwriter Little Miss Higgins. Born in Alberta and raised in Kansas, Higgins got her musical start at the age of 4 when her father brought home a mini grand piano. Eventually transitioning to guitar and vocals, she put out an independent EP in 2002 after settling in Saskatchewan with her then-husband, guitarist Foy Taylor. Heavily influenced by pioneering blues performer Memphis Minnie, on whom she modelled her performance style, Higgins established herself on the Canadian tour and festival scene. In 2005 she released her first full-length album, “Cobbler Shop Sessions”, followed by “Junction City” in 2007. After separating from Taylor Higgins again relocated, this time to Manitoba, where she formed her band, the Winnipeg Five. She released the 2013 album “Bison Ranch Recording Sessions”, followed by her most recent release, 2017’s “My Home, My Heart”. In 2020 she made the decision to stop recording music, citing the streaming model as no longer a viable way for musicians to make a living. She continues to tour and perform live.

On today’s show we’ll also hear from California-based singer-songwriter and harmonica player John Clifton Blues Band. A 30-year veteran of the blues scene, Clifton is a seasoned regular on the touring circuit; he has played throughout the US as well as in New Zealand, France, Poland and Belgium, often playing 150 dates per year. He released his first solo album, “Let Yourself Go”, in 2015, followed by “Nightlife” in 2018 and “In the Middle of Nowhere” in 2019. His sound is a blend of West Coast and Chicago-style blues, with elements of 1950s Soul and R&B. His on-stage shows are high-energy and feature his electrifying harmonica chops. In 2017 his song “Anytime is Cool” was featured in the motion picture “Shattered”, starring Ray Wise of Twin Peaks fame. Clifton released his newest album, “Too Much to Pay”, in February.

Also on today's show are Boogie Bill Webb, Stoney B and Grandpa, Stevie and The Blue Flames Feat. Ruby Dee, Blue Moon Marquee, Big Daddy Wilson & Ruthie Foster, Acantha Lang, Steve Williams and The Blues Deluxe, Brad "Guitar" Wilson, Tammi Savoy, Tad Robinson, Karen Lawrence, and James Harman Band = Friends page.

To hear today’s episode tune in at 6pm Sun, 2pm Tues & 9am PST Thurs at CKSV-FM 93.7 in the Shuswap, 3pm PST Sat at CFIS RADIO - PRINCE GEORGE in British Columbia, 5pm EST Tues at CKLU FM in Sudbury, and 12pm NST Tues on Voice of Bonne Bay in Newfoundland.