Band:Bob Jacks Orchestra Year: 1949 Genre: Big Band Home: Chatham Based: Wallaceburg Photo: Bob Jacks Orchestra at Primrose Gardens in Wallaceburg, 1949
Notes: Bob Jacks, piano; Margaret Lashmore and Helen Chaika, vocals; John ‘Corky’ DuChene, John Hutchinson, Bert Trampleasure, Dave Forsyth, John Dugit, saxes; ‘Curly’ King, drums; Murray Carr, Gord Hazzard, Lyle, Stratton, trumpets; Bob Mann, trombone.
Jacks’ first orchestra was formed in 1935 while he was still a student at Chatham Collegiate Institute. The seven-piece band included three saxophones, one trumpet, a string bass, a guitar and Jacks himself on piano. Lake Erie locations such as the Erie Beach Dance Pavilion and Rondeau Park as well as dances in Chatham were some of the first entries in Jacks’ engagement book. By the summer of 1937 the orchestra had landed weekend contract at Erie Beach. But, the following year, Jacks’ Chatham-based music interest and his employment based in Wallaceburg led to the breakup of the band. A group of avid young Wallaceburg musicians, eagerly trying to create a dance band, invited Jacks to join in with them. Jacks took over the piano work and soon fronted the band. From then on, the Bob Jacks Orchestra became a Wallaceburg fixture. Beginning in 1941, the band played at Primrose Gardens and remained there, steadily, for more than a decade.
An accomplished pianist, Jacks gained a reputation as the orchestra leader with the ‘big band sound’. Word soon spread and crowds of dancers came from the surrounding communities and rural areas of Kent County. Eventually Jacks was playing for the Primrose crowd three nights a week. Over the course of nearly two decades more than 50 musicians and 12 vocalists had been associated with the band.
During my term with Bob Jacks Orchestra members included (saxes) John ‘Corky’ DuChene, John Hutchinson, Bert Trampleasure, Dave Forsyth and John Dugit; (trumpets) Murray Carr, Gord Hazzard and Lyle Stratton; (trombone) Bob Mann; (drums) Curly King; (vocalists) Margaret Lashmore and Helen Chaika —and, of course, Bob Jacks on piano. Chuck Ross and Doug Wickens occasionally played the string bass in turn. Pete Mitchell sat in on many dances for drummer Curly King, and Tommy Platt played tenor sax in the band when he was in town.
In addition to the regular dance schedule at Primrose Gardens, Bob Jacks occasionally booked the band for out-of-town engagements — sometimes renting a bus for the trip. One very special ‘road trip’ took the band to a recording studio in Chatham where the Bob Jacks Trio, consisting of Marg and Dorothy Lashmore and Helen Chaika recorded two numbers — Bless You and Sentimental Journey. Another Chatham appearance was at the well-known radio station, CFCO where the orchestra participated in a special wartime music program. Some of the band’s out-of-town engagements included various Kent County High School and collegiate formal dances, Blenheim and Ridgetown High Schools, the Rondeau Park Dance Pavilion and Erie Beach. Although the majority of Jacks’ road trips were within Kent County, they provided the Bob Jacks Orchestra important exposure in building its reputation as the ‘local orchestra with the Big Band sound’.
In 1953 when the crowds at Primrose Gardens in Wallaceburg thinned to the point of slim returns (for Bob Jacks Orchestra and the dance hall proprietor) dance nights were cut back to two a week, then one a week. Along with so many other Swing Era dance floors, Primrose Gardens went down fighting and finally the music went silent and the dance hall went dark. The Swing Era was over.
In 1969, a reunion brought many of the Bob Jacks alumni back to Primrose Gardens. A dance was organized and when the curtain opened on the stage the orchestra came out swinging with One O’Clock Jump — and ‘the crowd went wild’! For the rest of the evening Primrose Gardens took a sentimental journey back in time. During intermission Jacks remained at the piano — as he usually did during his years at Primrose — and continued to play many of the old favorites. The air in the dancehall was heavy with nostalgia as admirers gathered around the bandstand to watch and listen to Bob Jacks and his veteran musicians do what they loved so dearly and performed so masterfully.
The 1969 reunion provided a brief comeback for the Bob Jacks Orchestra, Primrose Gardens, the dancers and admirers — but, when the final set for the evening was announced, everyone knew, with heavy heart, that the last dance number would be Good Night Sweetheart.
Acknowledgments
Research and background information: Bob Quick (The Pastels), Alan Mann (Mann Historical Records), Bill Crozier, Time Life Records, Kingsville Gosfield Heritage Society
Band: Walkin ’47 Release: Deep Roots Released: May 2013 Home: Chatham-Kent Ontario. Genre: Rock Year formed: 2007
Notes: Formed out of a love for Canadian rock music, Walkin’ 47 are 5 friends from Southwestern Ontario who came together with similar musical interests including The Tragically Hip, Sloan, Sam Roberts, Blue Rodeo, and CCR. Although originally formed as a cover band, their shared passion of music has eventually led to the creation of original music and work on their first album, “Deep Roots”.
Members: Scott Aarssen – Guitar Steve Bellan – Drums Brian Cox – Guitar Jason Denys – Bass Drew Varsava – Vocals
Tracks: 1. You’re on 2. Strip me down 3. Burn 4. Algonquin 5. Roadtrippin 6. Fight it out
Here is the annual most viewed band pages @ The Chatham Music Archive for 2012. Note: People can still view pages by year or month etc, without having to click on separate pages to view, so those stats can’t be calculated.
01 Ian And Sylvia – Greatest Hits (1969) 02 Bluetonium Band 2010 03 Jessica Allossery 2010 Learn CD 04 Social Code – A Year at the Movies (2004) 05 Diesel band from Blenheim 2012 06 Ian And Sylvia Debut Release (1962) 07 Free Ride Band from Chatham Ontario 2010 08 Demo Kid Home Demos Volume 5 CD Free Download 09 The Colours 1968 album 10 Mike Francis Bio 2010 11 Jeanne Gordon Opera Singer From Wallaceburg 12 Face 4 Radio (2009) 13 Charlie Dorner Music 2011 14 Walkin’ 47 band in 2010 15 Full Frontal Band 2011 16 Danielle Robert Music 2011 17 Toast and Jam in 2010 18 That Whaling Band (2009) 19 Chatham Police Boys 1958 20 Brooklyn Roebuck 2012 21 Fred S. Stone – Ma Ragtime Baby (1893) 22 Manpower (2009) 23 Big House 24 Brooke Nicholls – 2009 25 Sylvia Tyson in Quartette (1996) 26 Winterline BlueGrass Band 2012 27 Ian And Sylvia – You Were On My Mind (1972) 28 Geoffrey O’Hara Writes Huge Hit Song ‘K-K-K-Katy’ (1918) 29 Sal Piamonte 2011 CD 30 Nexus Band 1970 31 Colours 1969 Atmosphere 32 Fifth Season – Patiently Waiting CD (2001) 33 ericwelton_2011 34 The chasers band 2012 35 Suds Celtic Rock Band 2009 36 Fowler Lockwood Band 2012 37 Elyse Weinberg 1968 38 The Kent Regiment Band (1940) 39 Elyse Weinberg 2001 40 Bent Str8 band 2011
Ted Bushey is a 25 year veteran of the music industry, with writing and producing credits that span the continent from Ontario to Nashville. Ted is an accomplished live performer, and currently runs his own production studio ( Hit Bush Productions ) in Chatham-Kent Ontario, Canada’s Classic Car Capital. Ted now produces and peforms much of the background music for Old Autos Television, and soon other Maverick Multimedia Inc. Productions.
Band:Snakebite Year:2012 Year formed:2005 Genre:Country/ Popular music Home:Chatham Ontario Website:http://www.snakebiteband.com/
Members Paul Lowry(Bothwell) – Vocals, guitar Marty- Lead guitar Rene Brosseau- Lead/steel/slide (Website) James Vermue(London) – Bass Derek Babanin- Drums (London)
Notes: Snakebite is currently performing at:
Norma Jeans (London), Florence Center, Deer Run Golf Course, Encore Bar (Chatham), East Side Bar (London), Bothwell, Dresden, Riding Club (Sarnia), St. Thomas, Glencoe Fair,
Artist:Lee Hurst Year: 1976 Home:Windsor Currently Resides:Chatham
Lee is curretly headlining at the Kingsway.
Notes: Lee ejoyed success with (A Whole Lotta Your Love) a 45 released in 1973 on A&M Records of Canada.
Lee Hurst guest stars on “Music Makers” April 1st, 8P.M., Channel 9 C.B.E.T.
Venue: William Street Cafe Year: 2012 City:Chatham Ontario Location: 28 William Street South (Down Town) Phone: 519.360.1932
Notes:The William Street Cafe is a proudly independent, 100% homegrown coffee house/eatery – owned and managed by local entrepreneur, Susan Jeffrey.
The cafe sometimes hosts live bands, art shows, poetry slams, acoustic performers & other special events. It has been around for roughly 13 years.
Some of the events held over the years include: Dan Stronks Band, Sarah Hiltz, Linz Ross, Aaron Allen & the Small City Saints, Self Cynic, Leia Weaver, Bill Culp, & Sean Hogan.
Notes: They can be seen performing at such venues as The Sand Bar in Erieau , The Elephant’s Nest & Frendz in Chatham, & the Honest Lawyer in Windsor. Jordan also performs in the metal band ‘Go Man Go’.
Venue:Merrill Hotel Location: Chatham Ontario. Address:2-4 King Street West. Circa: 1989 Built: 1890′s. Picture:Circa 1960′s
Musical History:During the 1980′s & 1990′s, the venue was on the decline. Becoming known as a seedy venue where bands & strippers would perform along side seedy activity. The building itself would undergo huge renovations making it a beautiful place by the 2000′s. It became a popular rock & blues bar “The Blind Dog” & The “Metro“. Eventually it would become a high class Motel known as the Retro Suites. Today (2012), It stands as a world class Motel that is unique with its many themed rooms.
Description: known historically as the Merrill Hotel, is located on the southwest corner of King Street and William Street in the City of Chatham, Municipality of Chatham-Kent. The property consists of a three-storey salmon-brick commercial building that has served as a hotel since its construction in the 1890s. The Merrill Hotel was opened on the site in the 1890s by Francis Towne Merrill. It was one of the first brick buildings to be constructed on the King and William block. The business was so successful that in 1903 it expanded, adding a “hallway and staircase” on the pie-shaped lot on the corner next to it (what is now 20-26 William Street South). For over a century the Merrill Hotel has provided hospitality to the Chatham community and its visitors, a tradition that continues as the structure now serves as the entrance to a boutique hotel, the Retro Suites.
If you’re a go getter, you will find there is a million things to do in this little wee town of ours. So here it is, The most complete list ever made so far. The purpose is to help friends find things to do that they may not even be aware of.
Things to do in Chatham -Kent
Random Things to do:
* Go see a movie in the brand new state of the art theatre. Galaxy Cinema.
* Catch a Chatham Maroons Game Live (Jr. B Hockey) Website.
* Dresden Raceway. 100 slot machines, horse-racing etc.
* Take someone to go play bingo.
* Visit Spanky’s Adult Entertainment. 182 King St W.
Summer Events.
* WAMBO (Wallaceburg Antique Motor & Boat Outing)
* Rib Fest (annual summer event with entertainment for everyone).
* Retro Fest (Our community is known as the Classic Car Capital.
* Blenheim Cherry Fest – Live entertainment, rides, performers etc.
* The Caribbean-Canadian festival.
* Thamesville Threshing Festival.
* Pain Court Annual Truck & Tractor Pull.
* Tilbury Puddle Jump Event. Mud Bog, live entertainment. (Usually in August).
* Mitchell’s Bay Singing Contest. On site camping.
* Kinsmen Fair. June 6-9 2013.
* Culture Factory. Live bands, poetry, theatre etc.
* Get invloved with the “amazing race“.
Music Lessons (Guitar, voice, piano, drums, etc).
* Frank’s Music Centre: 519-352-7370
* Musical Strings ‘N’ Things Ltd: (519) 354-0111
* Tony’s One Stop Music Shoppe: (519) 351-4885
* The Chatham Concert Band Junior Program (Free)
* If you can’t find a teacher for your instrument of choice, ask the people at the above stores & they will pass you on to private instructors.
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Outdoors.
* Rondeau Provincial Park: 262 Camp sites, beaches, swimming, six hiking trails, bird watching, canoeing, fishing.
* Visit CM Wilson’s Conservation Area & Safety Village.
* Visit Wheatley Provincial Park.
* Mitchell’s Bay: Swimming, beach, splash pad, camping, cabins etc.
* Erieau Beach: Park & playground, sand volleyball, BBQ grills. Swimming, rent boats & equipment for water sports.
* Indian Creek walking path. Popular jogging path with ducks, geese, cranes & creek life.
* Take a walk through Paxton’s Bush. At 18 acres, it’s the largest standing woodlot in Chatham.
* Smith & Wilson Estate Wines. A beautiful Winery, that hosts outdoor concerts often. Live Blues, jazz & motown.
* Outdoor touring? Click the list of many places.
* John Waddell Off Leash Dog Park (New).
* Ghost Walks (annual).
* Spend your day at the park. Over 130 parks in Chathamm-Kent. here is the list.
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Sports.
* Brand New YMCA Building. Gym, pool, youth programs, group fitness, lessons, play zone, sports etc.
* Golfing: Nine courses located across the municipality. List.
* Fishing: We got the best lakes in the world. Lake Erie & Lake St. Clair. Info.
* Hunting: Check it out.
* Kenpo Karate: Kung Fu fighting. Lessons offered from various groups. here & here.
* Ice skating: There are 10 arenas in Chatham. Click here for 2012-2012 skating schedule.
* Get buddies together to play ice hockey or ball hockey, you can rent the arena. Call 519.360.1998.
* Brand new skating rink in front of the downtown mall.
* Leagues:Click here to join a team or league like baseball, Hockey, Figure Skating, Lacrosse, Soccer, Tennis or Curling.
* Water Sports: Kite Surfing, Wakeboarding & Scuba Diving all available. View list.
* Racing: South Buxton Raceway – If you enjoy live car racing.
* Wolfe Creek BMX: A non-profit BMX race track.
* Rugby League: Founded in 2001, Chatham has a rugby team in the Southwest Rugby Union.
* Gun Club: Facilities for rifle, pistol, shotgun and archery.
* Hunters Club: Est, 1964. Trap & skeet fields, indoor & outdoor pistol, outdoor centerfire rifle, blackpowder rifle and archery.
* Dover Rod and Gun Club.
* Bowling: Links to all.
* Curling: Links to all clubs.
* Fitness Clubs: Join one of the many listed here.
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Seniors.
* Sports and Hobbie Clubs: links to Antique, Classic Car, Canoe, Cycling, Racquet Squash, Badminton, Astronauts, Camera, Tennis, Conservation, Archer, Horseshoe, Dance, Fishing, Swim, Snowmobile Clubs.
* Seniors’ Programs and Resources.
* Horticultural Societ: Many to choose from.
* Lawn Bowling: Many places to join.
* Become a member of one of the many Legions in Chatham-Kent.
* Get involved with a service club. Too many to choose from.
* Active Lifestyle Centre: 50+. Mon-Fri. Participate in activities to enhance lifestyle and needs.
* Visit any of the Senior centres that offer to you.
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Theatre, Art & Culture.
* The Capitol Theatre – One of the most beautiful Theatres in Canada. Catch great live shows.
* Cultural Centre. Tons of shows, camps for kids, plays, comedy, programs, concerts.
* Catch a movie at The Drive In. (Tilbury). Website.
* Art Space.
* Boomtown Players.
* Chatham-Kent Film Group.
* Ridge Players Inc.
* Take a Bow Productions.
* Theatre Kent.
* Wallaceburg Little Theatre.
* Ursuline Theatre.
* Kiwanis Theatre.
* Pure Dance Academy.
* Thames Art Gallery.
* Rhythm of the Night Dance Studio.
* Chatham-Kent Museums (many).
* Dinner & dance events at the Filipino Club.
* Performances by the Portuguese dance ensemble
* Chinese New Year Celebrations.
* Visit the Black Historical Society ,The Heritage Room.
* Get connected with our Cultural Communities & clubs. List of them.
* Pride-CK (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgendered, Transsexual etc.) hosts several events.
* Oktoberfest! (Rotary Club) First ever @ the new Bradley Convention Centre Oct 6th 2012.
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Other Bars & Venues with live music.
* Encore – Live bands every weekend. Special Events.
* Big Shots – Live music often.
* Elephant’s Nest – Every weekend. Tuesdays Open Mic Night.
* Jazzbah – bands most weekends. Karaoke Nights Thurdays.
* St. Philippes Music Hall in Grande Pointe. Country Jamborees – last Sunday of every month.
* Central Tavern in Pain Court. Live bands every weekend.
* William Street Cafe – odd live show, poetry slams etc.
* Frendz Tapas & Martini Lounge – sometimes live music. (Beside the Capitol Theatre).
* River Rock – Ocassionally hosts live music.
* Rossini’s Restaurant – Classical guitar etc. sometimes.
* Royal Tavern – live music time to time.
* Churrascaria Steak House – 525 Grand Ave E, Chatham. The odd acoustic performance.
* Coffee Culture (Down town) – Acoustic patio performances during the summer.
* Band Shell – Tecumseh Park: Chatham Concert Band: Live every Wednesday, all summer, outdoors.
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If that is not enough, you have a zillion choices of things to do that are within an one hour drive time. Here is a small sample of idea’s for you.
* Detroit U.S.A. – Major concerts, Zoo, major league sports teams, shopping etc.
* (Dresden) Uncle Tom’s Cabin.
* (London) Children’s Museum.
* (London) Story Book Gardens.
* (London) Ski @ Boler Mountain.
* (London) Western Fair. Events, rides, concerts etc.
* (London) John Labatt Centre. Major concerts, sports etc.
* (Sarnia) Blue Water Fun Park: Water slides etc.
* (Windsor) Casino.
* (Windsor) WFCU Centre. Major concerts, sports, theatre etc.
* (Windsor) Devonshire Mall. Shopping.
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Dining.
Overview of many spots. Link here.
Famous Sunday Brunch @ Club Lentina’s. Open Every Sunday 10 am until 2 pm.
Band: The Grave Misunderstanding Release:Divinorium – EP Year: 2012 Home: Chatham Ontario Genre:Rock Formed:2006
Members: Frank E Fitz– Vox, guitar Andy Martini: Bass, B vox Jak L. Bonez – Drums
Tracks: 1. Pulline <3 2. Lucifer’s Falle From Paradise 3. My Beautiful 4. Of Whom We Speak 5. W3 Start War 6. Hyde
Notes:One of the tightest original bands in town right now. Andy is the newest member joining in 2009. He also performs in another talented band ‘That Whaling Band’ that leans more toward classic guitar hero rock.
Music Store: Frank’s Music Centre City: Chatham Ontario Canada Opened: 1961 Original Location: 230 Queen Street.
Notes: *The store has had many locations over the years including many different places on King Street and a long stay on St. Clair. * In its early days, it was a popular place to buy sheet music, get a variety of different musical instrument lessons, buy organs, and purchase records.
* Circa 1983 – Franks Music Centre had 25 music teachers at the time.
* Steve Eyres took over ownership in 1996. Previous to that, Larry Lozon had been owner for almost all of its previous years.
Notes:The band performed their first show as part of indie fest Aug 24 2012 @ the River Rock along side The Eric Welton Band & By Divine Right. Jason, Todd & Dennis were all members of Square Root Of Margaret, the longest running original indie underground band from Chatham.
Exotic Pets are: Jason McFadden(vocals, guitars) Todd Clarke (drums, percussion, electronic devices) Dennis Reissner(bass guitar), Steve Wiseman(guitars, vocals).
Venue:Parkview Tavern(AKA Bear) City: Chatham Ontario Canada Year: 1980′s & 90′s Address: 35 William St N
Notes: Located downtown across from Tecumseh Park. A popular small bar in Chatham for many many years until it was finally demolished for existing beyond its years.The Parkview featured cover bands every weekend along with the odd original band. The Popcorn band was a regular feature there. The club had a laid back appeal that was popular with the college scene, as well as the 40 something classic rock kids of the 70′s.
Artist:Demo Kid Release:Home Demo Recordings Volume 5 Year:2012 Home:Chatham Ontario Demo Kid is: Shawn B. (Home recording enthusiast) Discography: photo of all releases.
Note:All music performed, written, recorded by Shawn B. except where noted. See above inlay for complete credits. Recorded @ home using an Imac & Logic Pro.
On Sept 23rd 2012, Brooklyn won YTV’s Next Star Contest which had over three Million voters across Canada. Through this TV reality series, she has a song on itunes. From winning the contest, she will now have two songs distributed through the majors by Sony Music Entertainment .
Notes: Brooklyn is from a small town in Southwestern Ontario, Canada and has been acting, singing and dancing for several years. She has performed in musicals such as Wizard of Oz, High School Musical, Jungle Book and Godspell. Brooklyn has competed in numerous singing contests and talent shows over the past few years such as the Northern Ontario Open Country Music Contest, CKNX AM 920 Ontario Open Country Music Contest, the Colgate Country Showdown, the Western Fair, the Rising Star and the Mitchell’s Bay Country Music Contest where she has won several awards.
For the past two years Brooklyn has performed at Canada’s largest lights festival production “the CAA Winter Festival of Lights” in Niagara Falls, Ontario with Disney, Mark Frewen and Stephanie McIlroy. She also had the remarkable opportunity to perform at the Boothill Jamboree in Bothwell, Ontario sharing the stage with bands like The Oakridge Boys, The Kentucky Headhunters, Sammy Kershaw, Dean Brody, High Valley, Codie Provost, and Mustang Sally. It was an amazing experience!
Giving back to her community is very important to Brooklyn. She has been involved with many charitable volunteer events such as ‘The Respect’ tour with Community Living Chatham-Kent where she performed for over 40 schools and thousands of students in an anti-bullying campaign.
Group:Chatham Police Boy’s Band Year:1958 (photo) Home:Chatham Ontario Canada Formed: 1945 by Chief Constable C. E. Bagnall Original Band Master:S. G. Chamberlain Band Master (Last ten years):Edward J. Carney Current members: 86
More info provided in the above photos. Thanks to Mr. B. French for the submission.
Radio Station:The Rock 95.1FM Home: Chatham & Windsor based Year:2012 Website:http://canadasrock.ca/ Radio:95.1FM (Chatham) 100.7FM (Windsor)
Slogan:Canada’s Rock Station/ Killer Classics and The Best New Rock
History:A rock music radio station established on October 6, 1999. In 2002, CKUE swapped broadcasting frequencies with CKSY.
Note:In the 2012 era, The station is heavily spinning Nickel Back, Guns & Roses, Led Zeppelin, AC/DC, Metallica, Def Leppard, The Trews, Pearl Jam, Ozzy, Rush, Foo Fighters etc.
Contact:Chatham Office
117 Keil Drive Chatham, ON
N7M 5K1
info@canadasrock.ca
Tel. 519-354-2200
Contest/Request Line
519-354-4648
Band:The Janet Theory Year:2011 What:Reunion show Genre:Rock/Punk Home:Chatham Ontario
Note:Complete details (article) in pictures above. Current projects: Members have went on to form other bands such as Dead Girls Union, Sound of Static, Face4Radio, Demo Kid, Nikki Nine Doors, & Infinite Arms. (As of 2012)
Radio Station:CFCO 92.9FM & 630 AM Home: Chatham – Kent Ontario Year:2012 First Aired:1926 (AM Station) Format:Country Music Website:http://country929.com/
Location:117 Keil Drive South, Chatham, ON, N7M 3H3 Phone:519-354-2200
Notes:Country 92.9 & AM 630
On March 3, 2008 at 9AM, after sixteen years as an oldies station, “Classic Gold 630” came to an end with the song “The Beat Goes On” by Sonny and Cher, after which CFCO signed on the new country format with “Play Something Country” by Brooks & Dunn. Opening the station was thirty two year CFCO vet George Brooks. This is the first time Chatham-Kent has had its own country music station, although now-sister station CHYR in nearby Leamington was a country station for most of the 1990s and sister station CJSP, also in Leamington, debuted its own country format prior to CFCO’s change. Besides CFCO and CJSP, other country stations owned by Blackburn Radio are CHOK in Sarnia-Lambton, CJWF-FM in Windsor, and CKNX in Wingham.
In March 2011 CFCO began referring the station as “Country 92-9 FM CFCO” with no mention of 630AM.
Radio Station:CKSY FM Home:Chatham – Kent Ontario Year: 2012 First Aired:July 1 1986 Format: Mainstream Adult Contemporary Website:http://www.cksyfm.com
Personalities:
Morning Show: Robyn Brady, Chris Mcleod, Katy Uher
Weekdays 10am-2pm: Jay Poole
Weekdays 2-7pm: George Brooks
Sundays – Songs For the Heart: Walter Ploegman Ben Cummings
Band:Country On Tap Year: 1988 Home: Chatham Kent Genre: Country Formed: 1983
Members: center Joyce Gagnon- keyboards & vocals
back row (left to right) Ron Jubenville- acoustic guitar, 5 string banjo, Hammered Dulcimer & vocals Gabe Gagnon – lead guitar &vocals Jim Myers- Bass guitar & vocals Rosaire Emery – Drums & vocals Dale Rivard – Steel Guitar & vocals
Country On Tap has a long performance history in the area, mainly performing popular & classic country music covers of the day. The band is deep rooted in our musical history along side many others such as the Melody Ramblers, Gary Stocking, & the Jubilaires.
Band:Big House Home:Chatham Year Formed: 2012 Genre:Pop Rock, Funk, Dance
Members: Al Trudell:Vocals & guitar (Friends) Bob Wilson: Bass (Blutonium) Rick Chrysler: Drums (Blutonium)
Notes: The band played their first show last weekend (Feb 2012) in Sarnia.
Band: The Long Lots Release: In the Valleys of Our Hearts (EP) Genre: Rock (Dirty Blues) Year: 2012 Home Town: Chatham Ontario Canada Formed: Summer of 2007
Members: Jay Amerlinck – Vocals & guitar Gary Jongbloed – Guitars Jeff O’Rourke – Bass Jay O’Rourke – Drums
Tracks: 1.ear to the ground 2. dirty blues 3.contract 4.raise the sun 5.dead & gone
Notes: Recorded by Ben Strokosz October 2010.
Links:
Download CD @ Itunes here.
Home page here.
Preview or buy the CD online here.
Myspace page here.
Reverbnation page here.
Dirty Blues performed live here.
Notes: The Satin Highlight, played their first gig new year’s eve 1969, and their last gig new year’s eve 1979.
Members
left Michael Houle – guitar/vocols
front Murray Mallet – drums
rear Miller MacEwan – bass
right Waide Holland – organ/vocalist
The Satin Highlight were fortunate to have enjoyed popularity as a dance-band, covering southwestern Ontario for 10 years. At their peak, they were booked every Friday and Saturday night for 2 years ahead. What seemingly made their popularity was playing pop-rock cover songs (mostly played in lounge acts of the period) at dances. Weekend dances at that time were as popular as going to movie shows. Generally, local dance-bands of the era either play Country or Big-band music.
Notes: The Satin Highlight, played their first gig new year’s eve 1969, and their last gig new year’s eve 1979.
The original 1969-1971 members were:
(left) Michael Houle – guitar
(front) Waide Holland – organ/vocals
(rear) Ron Culver – drums
(right) Fred Tremblay – bass.
The Satin Highlight were fortunate to have enjoyed popularity as a dance-band, covering southwestern Ontario for 10 years. At their peak, they were booked every Friday and Saturday night for 2 years ahead. What seemingly made their popularity was playing pop-rock cover songs (mostly played in lounge acts of the period) at dances. Weekend dances at that time were as popular as going to movie shows. Generally, local dance-bands of the era either play Country or Big-band music.
Band:Zeke and the Moonshiners Genre: Comedy rock ‘n roll lounge act Circa: 1964-1966 Home: Chatham Ontario Canada
Notes:Ole & Waide were performing in this band in their teen years. The group later morphed into the popular “Missing Links” which you can read about in full under that band name.
George and Waide left the group around 1966 when they decided to tour extensively. The Moonshiners added Grant Smith as their new drummer for about 2 years.
When starting the tour, they changed the name of the group to “The Missing Links” and entertained in Ontario for about 10 years. At one point, the hottest recording/lounge act in Toronto.
In 1968, Waide started a popular local dance band known as “The Satin Highlight”. This group played locally from 1969 to 1979.
(left to right) Fred Larsen – organ John Larsen – bass Ole Larsen (Eddy) – Guitar (rear-center) Waide Holland – guitar George Stoner – drums
Venue:The Aberdeen Tavern Home: Chatham Opened: unknown: Circa 1971. Closed: Circa late 1990′s? Owners: Al & George
1970′s – Chatham was home to a strong music scene with bands performing at least six nights a week at the Aberdeen. Musicians from all over Ontario join the strong Union in this city. Times are good. Country music rules the day & the Aberdeen is a bar highly respected in the music community. Touring acts from around the world played here when they crossed Ontario.
1980′s – Glam rock takes over. The bar grows rough edges but continues to thrive and becomes a legendary party venue on the touring scene. It can be safely said that no bar may hold more good rock & roll stories than our little watering hole here in Chatham.
1990′s – Live entertainment dwindles down to just three nights a week. By the late 1990′s, the live music bar scene fades & Al & George decide to sell the venue & move. The Aberdeen becomes a storage warehouse for a local business. It still stands today (2011) in all its run down glory. The glory days are over, but the stories will never be forgotten. It was simply Chatham’s most legendary bar.
If you have any pictures of the venue or Al & George, please send them to us so we can share them. Thanks. Email us: chatham_music_archive@hotmail.com
Venue: Beatniks Cafe City: Chatham Ontario Location: 125 King St W (Downtown) Year: 1999
* Beatniks was lost to a fire that broke out in the year 2000.
* Small vibrant bar that welcomed live bands including blues, alternative, Punk etc.
* A funky little bar in downtown Chatham where numerous debaucheries and outlandish performers were the norm.
Artist: Craig James Laur Year: 2011 Genre: Acoustic, Singer/ song writer Home: Chatham-Kent (Wallaceburg) Resides: Toronto Former bands: ForClosure, Creek Street Sessions and more
Craig James Laur has been playing music for almost 10years. In his early days as a musician he was the front man for Wallaceburg band For Closure. The modern rock band was a local success playing covers and originals. More recently he was the front man for Wallaceburg local band Creekst.sessions. The blues rock band was also a local success playing covers and originals. The local radio station showcases the talent of both bands on a regular basis. In search of new opportunity, Craig is now recently a part of the Toronto music scene. Him and Kurt Dickson, a good friend and talented drummer, are an acoustic duo playing regular gigs at venues like “The Rose and Crown” and “Sheesha Lounge and Coffee House.” Though Craig still enjoys playing covers, he is expanding as a song writer and has many new original songs. The duo are still in search of a Toronto-based bass player, as they have booked steady gigs as a full band and are looking forward to starting a successful trio.
Band: S.U.D.S. AKA: shed union district standards Year: 2011 Genre: Celtic Rock and Roll Home: Chatham Formed: 2009 website:http://www.myspace.com/sudsband Type: Originals & Covers together
Members Danny Wright – Guitar, lead Vocals Darryl Twigg – Guitar, Vocals Goody – Bass guitar,vocals Skinny – Drums,vocals
Notes: This band can often be seen performing at the Elephant’s Nest and they really bring the party.
Danny also performs in ‘Go Man Go‘, a new metal project who just released a demo this year.
_______________________ Send your pics & info on Chatham bands (past & present) to Email us: chatham_music_archive@hotmail.com ____________________
Artist: Sarah Hiltz Release: Music For December Released: Nov. 29 2011 Genre: Christmas Home: Chatham Ontario
Tracks 1. Just For Now 2. It Came Upon A Midnight Clear 3. Christmas Song 4. Still, Still, Still
All tracks performed, recorded and mixed by Sarah Hiltz at home and at Eyrespace Studios in November 2011.
Sarah is emerging as a singularly talented songwriter with a voice all her own. In a modern blend of two classic and very different genres, echoes of Billie Holiday, Joni Mitchell and Feist ring out faintly through the structure of Sarah’s artistry.
Sarah has been busy touring around Canada on different ventures. She often performs with a live band and does many duo shows with her friend Linz R.
Discography 2010 - letters (EP) 2009 - How Many Fires 2003 - Close To Me 2000 - The People Of Chatham Kent
Visit her website here.
Download or peview this CD here.
Visit Sarah on YouTube here.
Artist:Bold Equation Release: Born Killer EP Year: Sept. 2011 Genre: Dubstep Home Town: Chatham Ontario Website:http://www.boldequation.com/ Press Contact: boldequation@gmail.com Previous Group: Stress Related.
Songs 1. Born Killer 2. Clak Clak 3. Earthquake 4. Unleash The Fury
Notes: AKA Chris Spafford has come a long way in being a supporter of the local scene to becoming a scene maker. Locals may know him back in the day as the very young skate board shop owner of “High Five”. A young go getter who was one of the central figures behind getting our sleepy town a skate park. That was no easy task!
I have watched this guy grow as he dabbled in music in the likes of hip hop, rap etc. The good thing about him is that he always worked with others & took the knowledge he learned & kept progressing.
It is great to see this guy take his ambitious passions to new levels each & every time. We are talking about a guy who takes his vision and makes it happen. If his track record proves correct, this is not the high point of his musical trials. The best is yet to come. Keep an eye on Bold Equation…. The math adds up.
Watch videos below in comment section.
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Band: Why Not? Circa: 1965-1966 Home: Chatham-Kent Ontario Note: Through popular dissemination they mistakenly became known as “The Why Nots?”
Members Doug Chevalier Paul Miller Allan Jones Bob Niksic Rick Chrysler
This popular band performed at a different High School every weekend. The material was mostly Rolling Stones, Yardbirds, Kinks and James Brown covers. This was Rick’s first band.
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Band:Walkin ’47 Genre: Cover band (Rock & Roll) Home: Chatham Year: 2011 Year formed: 2007 Contact:Facebook website.
Members: Drew Varsava – Lead Vocals/Rhythm Guitar/Percussion Scott Aarssen - Rhythm Guitar/Back-up Vocals Brian Cox – Lead Guitar/Back-up Vocals Jason Denys – Bass Guitar/Back-up Vocals Steve Bellan – Drums
The band usually plays host to fundraising events which help our community.
A few shows include the Annual Halloween Spooktacular, Movember, Tonyfest, Links Luau Fundraiser, LobsterFest 2009, & Playin’ for Peyton.
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Visit our contact page to send us your pics & info on local bands.
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Note: Live performance is at the heart of Tom’s musical career. Over the years, he has played thousands of gigs at clubs, concerts, festivals and corporate events.
He has a concert series in his home town of Chatham and hosts the annual CK Guitar Summit.
Among the many highlights are two that stand out: Being among the musicians who represented Canada at the Organization of American States conference in 2000 and playing live on a nationwide broadcast on CBC’s Disc Drive on Canada Day 2005.
Songwriter/teacher/guitarist Tom Lockwood has been playing guitar for more than 40 years. Lockwood works every conceivable genre especially blues with The Tom Lockwood Band. He has been a mainstay on the south-western Ontario music scene since relocating to Chatham, Ontario from Detroit, Michigan in 1977. Lockwoods music spans a diverse spectrum and has been used in television and radio productions in 22 countries worldwide.
Artist:Eric Welton Release: Kill Them with Kindness” Genre: Indie Rock/Folk Year: 2011 Resides: Windsor From: Chatham Ontario
Live band: Eric Welton - Vox, guitar Luke Pelotte – Drums Josh Zalev – Bass Erik Myskow - Guitar
Notes:
Eric grew up in Chatham, where his step Father (at the time) owned Sound Trax as well as the fleamarket inspired store below it. After high school, Eric went to Toronto to study Media Arts. He moved to Windsor between 2002-2004.
Eric hosts the Open Stage at a local pub named “Villains” every Tuesday night, along with members of his band.
Eric is also the newest member of Square Root Of Margaret, The Chatham band just released a record in 2010 entitled “WYSiWYG”.
Tracks:1. Kooler, 2. Kill Them with Kindness, 3. Gone, 4. the Evil in Your Violence, 5. Hazel Eyes, 6. Every Day, 7. Spherikal, 8. I Know I’m Dying, 9. LC/DC, 10. unOther.
Cover Band: Bent Str8 Genre: Classic Rock Home: Chatham Year: 2011
Members: Dwayne Boismier Darryl Boismier Terry Barker
About: BENT STR8 is a hard hitting 3 peace Band. Consisting of Lead Guitar/ Harmonica/Accoustic , Drums and Bass. All three members are lead singers which makes for sweet three part harmony and also makes the Band sound BIGGER than it really is. BENT STR8′s set list consists of anything from Pink Floyd to the Hip. Neil Young to Uncle Cracker and everything in between. The Band also has some Country roots which ables them to reach a wider range of audience covering tunes from Johnny Cash, Keith Urban and Toby Keith just to name a few.
Current shows (at time of print)
Dec 31 2011 – New Years Eve Bash @Central Hotel in Pain Court
Dec 9-10, 2011 @ Big Shots Billiards, Chatham.
Dec 3, 2011 at 7:00pm @ Ranch 2000 ( 23496 Centre side rd. Chatham )
Contact them on Facebook “Bent Str8t”.
______________________ Send your pics & info on Chatham bands (past & present) to Email us: chatham_music_archive@hotmail.com ____________________
Band: Don Shepherd Band Year: 1949 Genre: Big Band Home: Chatham
This 12 piece band was put together in 1949 and lasted until about 1952. The band worked in the Pyranon ballroom and many other places in the Chatham area. Don played lead Alto and his wife Penna Graham was the band vocalist. The band was very popular playing all the hits of the day and is remembered as a very good dance band.
Don joined the Air Force during the war and played in one of the best Toronto Air Force bands. After the war, Don moved to Barrie and owned and operated a music store. In 1949 he moved back to Chatham to help his father operate and manage Shepherd Printing Company.
Band:Chateau Gai Orchestra Year: 1946 Genere: Big Band
The Chateau Gai Orchestra was formed in 1946 at the home of Walter King in Blenheim Ontario.
Original members: Mac McCutcheon – piano Leighton Rumble – bass Max McGregor – drums Gord Tricker & Claire Scafe – trumpets Phil Carney – trombone Jack Trotter & Walt King – saxophones
Other players were Bus Bowers, Stan Betts, Sam Ryan, Bill King, Ray Macdonald.
The Chateau Gai Orchestra was noted for its sweet sound and danceable music often related to the sound and style of the Guy Lombardo band. The band played at many popular sites e.g. the Hi-Neighbour dances at the Kinsmen auditorium in Chatham for many years, Rondeau Park’s new and old dance halls, Blenheim High School Alumni Dances (49 out of 50), and Kenwick on the Lake, Sarnia. They were also in demand in London and many other towns and cities.
In later years Ted Pudney of London took over the band and they continued to play in the Lombardo style for many years.
This band was truly part of the big band era in Ontario.
Bob was born in Chatham Ontario and passed away in Wallaceburg Ontario January 2 1972 at the age of 57. Bob taught music in the schools of Wallaceburg and his mother Mary Jacks also taught music.
Bob formed his first band while attending Chatham Collegiate High School in 1935. He quickly established a reputation for good dancable music and became house band at the Primrose Gardens in Wallacburg from 1941 to 1953.. Over the years he had more than 50 musicians and 12
vocalists.
Bob started at the Gardens working in the coat check room. In 1940 he moved to Wallaceburg to work at Schults Die in the office. The band normally had 10 – 12 members plus girl singers and was so popular that Friday nights at the Gardens was always full. They also played at the high school dances service clubs as well as many dance halls in Chatham, Rondeau Park, Sarnia and Erie Beach. The band had a reunion in 1969 and in 1995 and both were well attended. Bob was also a very good pianist
