Downchild retires: Canada’s national blues band is calling it a day. In a Facebook post yesterday, the group stated that “As we celebrate our 55th Anniversary this year and 55 years of performing around the world, the time has come to say so long to touring and our loyal fans, many of you who have followed us for the whole ride”. They will be performing their farewell tour this fall. They have been a fixture on the Canadian blues landscape and made an international splash when three of their songs were covered on the first Blues Brothers album. Downchild gave Canada the Blues. Mission accomplished!

Tony D signed to the Cordova Bay Records: Tony D has worked as a full-time professional musician since he was 17 years old. He recorded 7 indie solo albums as the Tony D Band and spent the last 15 years as the driving guitarist for MonkeyJunk gaining two JUNOs, 25 Maple Blues Awards and a Blues Music Award. A worthy addition to this fine label.

Junction Blues Festival: There’s a new Toronto blues festival that just popped up on our radar. It’s only one day, but it’s their inaugural event so here’s hoping they get a good turnout and are encouraged to do it again next year. It’s happening at The Junction Temple, 151Annette St. on Saturday, August 24. 2pm start with Jay Blues, Mostly Blues Band, Blues Town Heroes, Jerry Rig Blues Band, Isaak Bonk Duo featuring Yiki Wang, Camilo Restrepo, and The Frank Cosentino Band closing it out. Tix at https://www.ticketscene.ca/events/48843

Blues at the Ex: The Canadian National Exhibition (CNE) is rearing up for weeks of award-winning live music on multiple stages from August 16 – September 2, with fantastic Blues representation in the mix. Catch performances by Fraser Melvin Band, James Anthony, Julian Taylor, Frank Cosentino, Paul James Band, Jay Douglas, The Marigolds with Suzie Vinnick, Durham County Poets and Danny Marks. Speaking of Danny Marks, did you know he was the first vocalist on the CNE jingle “Let’s go to the Ex”? Get the full music line-up here: https://www.theex.com/performances/music/ 

Blues Blast Awards: Voting is open for the 17th Annual Blues Blast Awards from Blues Blast magazine. Fan voting is happening now and ends at midnight on August 31, 2024 at http://www.BluesBlastMagazine.com. Voting is free and open to all.

– Brian Blain, Janet Alilovic