Artist: Jay Allan Year: 2020 Genre: Country Home: Bothwell
Notes: Born in Strathroy and raised in Glencoe. A well seasoned performer, Jay Allan has been writing & entertaining audiences for over 15 years. His debut album ‘Please Don’t Change’ was released in 1998 by North Street Records. His follow up release ‘The Wrong Direction’ took him yo Nashville and was produced by Doc Walker’s Murray Pulver. Despite the album title, Jay was planted firmly in the right direction, with two successful radio singles “Rumourville” and “She’s A Tease”. The latter, became his first Top 40 single.
Today, Jay is a dedicated and driven songwriter with an original sound, an accomplice to many local aspiring songwriters and musicians and a dedicated member of the Canadian Country Music Association (CCMA), SOCAN and the Songwriter’s Association of Canada (S.A.C.)
Some 2020 music credits
Jason Mercer – “Nobody But You”. Written by Jay Allan, Shawn Meriano (Chatham) and Jason Mercer from London Ontario.
Jay co-wrote ‘Never Alone’, ‘Mourning After’ & ‘The End’ with Sarah Smith.
Jay co-wrote ‘Wondering’ with Justine Chantale.
Link to Videos below:
* Jason Mercer – “Nobody But You”. Link here. * Sarah Smith – Never Alone. Link here. * Sarah Smith – Mourning After. Link here. * Sarah Smith – The End. Link here. * Justine Chantale – Wondering. Link here.
Official Jay Allan Links * Website link here. * Youtube link here. * Facebook link here. * Instagram link here.
Artist: Bushman Release: My Old Guitar Year: 2021 Genre: Country Home: Chatham-Kent, Ontario Contact: bushboismier@yahoo.ca
Notes: Bushman is a staple of the local country music scene. Along with his two brothers and a close friend, he fronted the Koboys in the 90’s. Often performing solo these days, Bush has been pumping out many songs, most of them in line with witty humour, and posting them to youtube to share with friends.
*Recorded, Engineered, Mixed, Mastered, Produced and Arranged By Dave Fitz. South River, NL
Tracks:
Chugging Of A Choo Choo
Show A Little Mercy
Old Outlaw
The Best Mama
Yeah I Love You Too
My Old Guitar
Knees In The Breeze
Life’s Just A Fairytale My Friends
Who To Blame
Will It Be Upstairs Or Downstairs
Sawyer’s Song
Watch the video preview/sampler below, of the release.
Band: Koboys Year: 1995 Genre: Country Music Home: Chatham-Kent Ontario Music: Covers & originals
Band Members: Bush Bushman – Lead vocals & rhythm guitar Dwayne Boismier – Lead guitar Darryl Boismier – Bass & backing vocals (Diamond) Dave Foltz – Drums
Notes: The Koboys were a popular country cover band filling venues in the area.
Below video, was televised live from EightBall, in Chatham, Dec. 13th, 1995. (Bush,dwayne and darryl are the BOISMIER BROS, FOLTZ was like a bro to them.
In 2019, Brooklyn released two songs. 01. Break It Again 02. What Goes Around
Notes: * On Sept 23rd 2012, Brooklyn won YTV’s Next Star Contest which had over three Million voters across Canada. She released her first single and video “The Way I See You”. The song & video for ‘Lemon & Lime was also released. * Her YTV win gave her more than just an edge on the country scene – Brooklyn has enjoyed being able to host multiple “Movie Nights” on YTV, as well as guest starring on the network’s popular series “Life with Boys.” She has hosted YTV’s The Zone, and even interviewed future “The Next Star 6” hopefuls in Toronto.
* 2013 – Brooklyn released a four song EP entitled Storyteller. In March 2013, she recorded her second single, “ONE OF THESE DAYS”, at Sony/ ATV studios in Toronto with producer Rob Wells.
* 2015: Releases her song ‘Good Day‘.
* 2016: Brooklyn also released one song entitled ‘Sweet On Me’. Written by Brooklyn Roebuck and Annette Barkley.
*2018: In 2018, Brooklyn released three songs. 01. Things That I Don’t Miss, 02. Bad Seed, 03. Barn Burner.
All three songs can be found at iTunes here.
Links:
*‘What Goes Around’ on spotify here. * ‘Break It Again’ on spotify here. * Youtube link here. * Facebook link here. * Twitter link here. “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “ “
Artist: Michelle Wright Genre: Country Music Year: 2018 From: Merlin, Ontario, Canada. (Chatham-Kent) Resides: Nashville
Two songs released in 2018 01. Lovin’ This Day 02. Attitude Is Everything
Notes:
With the August 2018 digital release of her first brand new music since the release of Strong (2013 Savannah Music), Michelle Wright once again shows why her expressive voice and her distinctive style has earned her twenty‐five Top Ten radio hits, more than forty major awards (including her 2011 induction into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame) and sold millions of records.
This past May, it was announced that Wright would receive the 2018 Impact Award by the Country Music Association of Ontario sponsored by Canadian Music Week. This is a fairly new award, with previous recipients of this prestigious Impact Award being Blue Rodeo and Gordon Lightfoot.
Born: July 1, 1961, Chatham-Kent Studio albums: 9 Compilation albums: 2 Music videos: 17
Links: * Website link here. * iTunes link to download these songs here. “ “ “ “ “
Artist: Aaron Allen Genre: Country Music Home: Chatham Ontario Resides: London Ontario Canada.
In 2019, Aaron released two tracks,
‘Good Tattoo‘ & ‘Where Music Comes From‘.
Along with these official releases, he has been busy co-writing tracks with many other song writers in Nashville and abroad.
Notes: Aaron Allen (born August 1, 1981)
Debuting as a solo artist in mid 2000, Aaron created a buzz for himself amongst the country/folk and bluegrass scene in Southern Ontario with his first release (‘’Self Titled’’ 2006). In 2007 he released a record called ‘’Aaron Allen And The Small City Saints’’, which was his first offering as a full band, followed by the critically acclaimed ‘’A Place Called Hell’’ in 2009. He began touring as a solo artist, as well as with a band, and received national airplay, as well as appearing on shows such as JR Digg’s ‘’Man With A Van’’ (which he wrote the title track for). After touring extensively, he released another solo record called ‘’IV’’ in 2011, which was followed by the EP ‘’Small City Saints’’ in 2012. He really cut his teeth performing opening for such acts as Joel Plaskett, Thomas Rhett, Tim Hicks, The Sheepdogs, Dallas Smith, The Trews, Matt Mays, Tom Wilson, Aaron Pritchett, just to name a few.
In 2013 Aaron took a break from music to start a family, which inspired a boost of creativity, and in 2015 he released another critically acclaimed full length album ‘’Better Days’’.
The Small City Saints have seen numerous members over the years.
The band currently consists of Juno award winner Dan Broadbeck, Tara Dunphy (of The Rizzdales), Glen Gamble ‘’Archie’’ (formerly of Helix/The Joys), Corey Cameron and Simon Larrochette.
Discography * 2006 – Aaron Allen – Self Titled (11 songs) * 2007 – Aaron Allen & The Small City Saints – Self-Titled (12 songs) * 2009 – Aaron Allen – A place called hell (15 songs) * 2011 – Aaron Allen – IV (6 songs) * 2012 – Aaron Allen & The Small City Saints – Self-Titled (5 songs) * 2015 – Aaron Allen & the Small City Saints – Better days (10 songs)
Links: * website here. * facebook here. * Apple music link here.
Artist:Jacklyn Wills Year: 2019 Home:Chatham-Kent (Dresden) Genre: Country
Notes: * 18-year-old Jacklyn Wills strives for her dream of furthering her future through entertaining. * 2016: Recorded a three song demo ep that has helped her gain air play from local radio stations 99.1 CKXS and 92.9 CFCO. * Throughout her high school years, Jacklyn performed with one of Sarnia’s top young classic rock bands, known as “Round House”. * Performs both covers & originals. *Photo By: Captured Moments Photography
Contact:
BOOKING & GENERAL INQUIRIES
jacklynwills@hotmail.com | 226-626-4863
Website Links: * Home page here. * Facebook link here. * Instagram link here. * Youtube link here. “ “ “ “ “ “ “
Band: Melody Ramblers Home:Chatham Kent Ontario Area. Year:1986 From: 1953-1994 (Different members through time) Style: Top 40 country
Members:
TOP RIGHT….Larry St. Pierre – drums
TOP LEFT…Eugene Beaulieu – bass
MID TOP…Wendy Jenkins – lead vocals
BOTTOM RIGHT…Mark Buckwheat – lead vocals
MID BOTTOM…Rene Brosseau – pedal steel, slide guitar, dobro
BOTTOM LEFT…Dan St. Pierre – lead guitar
Notes:
The bands history, under the name ‘The melody Ramblers’ begins in 1953 and ends in 1994.
To read about it, check out the first Melody Ramblers post link here.
Update: In 2015, The Melody Ramblers did a one off reunion show made up of their final band member line up from 1994. “
Artist: Chas Jr. Release:Canadian Cowboy Year:2014 Genre: Country Home: Chatham-Kent, Ontario
Tracks: 1. Cadillac Country Star 2. Nashville Bound 3. Cowboy from Ontario 4. In Waylons Eyes 5. Ode to Dad 6. Baddass Country Singer 7. Ode to Mamma (I Love You a Million Ways) 8. When I Say I Do 9. Mess Mess Around With Me (X-Rated)
Artist: Ryan Bradley Year:2017 Genre:Country music. Home:Wheatley, currently residing in Chatham during this time.
Notes: * Bradley grew up in the fishing town of Wheatley, Ontario. * Bradley attended the University of Waterloo and majored in Human Sciences, with most of his electives being music courses. * Has been residing in Chatham-Kent County and working as a paramedic, Ryan has also spent the last number of years playing local clubs and writing songs. * Ryan has been releasing one or two songs a year since 2013. In the video below, we preview a sample of each one, from the lates to oldest.
Songs: * Ryan Bradley – 2017 – higher ground * Ryan Bradley – 2016 – kissed me back * Ryan Bradley – 2015 – wish you could’ve seen your face * Ryan Bradley – 2014 – next weekend * Ryan Bradley – 2013 – RR4 tonight * Ryan Bradley – 2013 – let me change your mind *Ryan Bradley – 2013 – 1999
“ “
Links: * iTunes download link for all singles here. * Youtube link here. * Ryan Bradley interview/live performance here. * Soundcloud link here. “ “ “ “ “ “ “
Notes: *On Sept 23rd 2012, Brooklyn won YTV’s Next Star Contest which had over three Million voters across Canada. She released her first single and video “The Way I See You”. The song & video for ‘Lemon & Lime was also released. *Her YTV win gave her more than just an edge on the country scene – Brooklyn has enjoyed being able to host multiple “Movie Nights” on YTV, as well as guest starring on the network’s popular series “Life with Boys.” She has hosted YTV’s The Zone, and even interviewed future “The Next Star 6” hopefuls in Toronto.
*2013 – Brooklyn released a four song EP entitled Storyteller. In March 2013, she recorded her second single, “ONE OF THESE DAYS”, at Sony/ ATV studios in Toronto with producer Rob Wells.
*2015: Releases her song ‘Good Day‘.
*2016: Brooklyn also released one song entitled ‘Sweet On Me’. Written by Brooklyn Roebuck and Annette Barkley.
Video Preview of the three songs
;
Links: * Youtube link here. * Twitter link here. *Spotify Link here. * Facebook link here. * Reverbnation link here. “ “ “ “ “ “ “
Artist: Brooklyn Roebuck Release: Good Day Year: 2015 Home: Chatham-Kent Ontario Genre:Country/pop
Notes:Brooklyn Roebuck releases her song ‘Good Day’.
* In 2016, Brooklyn also released one song entitled ‘Sweet On Me’.
Written by Brooklyn Roebuck and Annette Barkley. Visit her website for links.
Links: * Website here. * itunes download of this song here. * Youtube link here.
Artist: Michelle Wright Single: Laugh a Little Genre: Country Music Year:2015
Chatham-Kent Connection: Michelle is from the Chatham-Kent Ontario Canada and moved to Tennessee in the 90’s, and has lived there since.
Notes:
Five-time CCMA Female Artist of the Year and Canadian Hall of Fame singer Michelle Wright is releasing her first single to Country radio in the United States in more than a decade. “Laugh A Little” is from her album, Strong, which has already seen strong support in Canada.
Band: Melody Ramblers Year: 2015 Genre:Country Cover Band Home: Chatham-Kent
Members (L-R) Rene Brosseau– Steel Guitar, Vocals Dan St. Pierre– Lead Guitar Mark Buckwheat– Vocals, Rhythm Guitar Larry St. Pierre– Drums Wendy Jenkins – Vocals, Rhythm Guitar ‘Gene’ Eugene Beaulieu – Bass, Vocals
Notes: Who would have thought when Sherley St. Pierre and his wife Theresa formed a small country music band “The Melody Ramblers” in 1953, they started a country music tradition. The Ramblers band officially retired December 31 1994, but in 2015, they did a reunion show made up of that final band member line up.
2015 – Reunion Where: Knights of Columbus Hall, Tilbury When: October 3rd, 2015 *Event also included the original ‘HOMEGROWN BAND’.
Original Members in 1953: (From left to Right in above photo.) Joe Barnier – Guitar Marie Barnier – Vocals Louella Barnier – Vocals Francis Barnier – Drums Ralph St. Pierre – Fiddle Joe Demers – Pedal Steel Rita Demers – Vocals Theresa St. Pierre – Vocals Sherley St. Pierre – Guitar
Band:Aaron Allen & the Small City Saints Release:Better Days Date: April 21st, 2015 Home: Chatham Ontario Resides: London Ontario Canada.
Notes:
Call him country, folk, rock, cow punk or blues, Aaron Allen is just a singer songwriter who writes honest music from the heart and could care less about fitting into any one genre. He tends to write about topics other people would prefer to keep quiet and that’s quite evident on the singer’s sixth studio release.
Aaron Allen, born August 1, 1981 in Chatham, Ontario, is a Canadian alt-country/blues/acoustic/rock singer-songwriter. Driven by influences such as Neil Young, Ryan Adams and Bob Dylan, Aaron’s approach to writing music starts from the power of his lyrics which are sometimes heartbreaking, sometimes straight up rock and roll, but always true to his heart and honest. Aaron believes in making music that is timeless and continues to carve out his place in the music industry to ensure a long career in doing what he loves. Produced By Mack Edwards Engineered, co-produced and mixed by Simon Larochette Recorded at the Sugar Shack, London On, Canada.
Tracks: 1. Blackout Drunk 03:46 2. Choices 03:17 3.Love Is All you Need 03:17 4.When My Time Is Up 03:04 5. This Town 03:06 6.Killing Me 02:25 7. I Am Gone 02:59 8. Slow 02:29 9. You Will Never Know 03:19 10. My Little Girl 02:17
*Watch the CD preview below.
Links:
* Preview/download Album here.
* iTunes download link here.
Group: LUEY (Let Us Entertain You) Genre: Classic Country Year: 2015 Home:Dresden, Chatham-Kent, Ontario
Notes:Allow us to provide the entertainment for your next event. We offer musical entertainment, Karaoke, and DJ services. Very reasonable rates. We also provide entertainment FREE OF CHARGE to senior venues and rest homes!!
LUEY is a three piece harmony group providing all your entertainment needs. They use electronically provided music.
Band:Snakebite Home: Bothwell/ Chatham-Kent Genre:Country Release: My Road Date: May 2015 Formed: 2005
Members:(Left to right in picture) Front: Marty Marsh, Paul Lowry, Shawn Tasker Back:James Vermue, Eric Demuynck.
Tracks: 01. My Road 02. Beautiful Girls 03. Too Much Too Soon 04. All Night Long 05. That’s My Song 06. Laid Back 07. You 08. Faded Love 09. Song After Song 10. Detroit Girls 11. Snakebitten
Notes:Snakebite began as a cover band 10 years ago, slowly adding original music over time. They have played roughly 200 shows in the last few years. *This is a great modern country song writing 101 release. Great catchy choruses and a truly fun listen all the way through. I do hope they shop these songs. The work that went into this is showing. _ *Watch the preview below. _
Artist: Ryan Bradley Year:2014 Genre:Country. Home: Wheatley, currently residing in Chatham.
Notes: * Bradley grew up in the fishing town of Wheatley, Ontario. * Bradley attended the University of Waterloo and majored in Human Sciences, with most of his electives being music courses. *Now residing in Chatham-Kent County and working as a paramedic, Ryan has also spent the last number of years playing local clubs and writing songs.
Songs available on Itunes: (As of Jan 2015) 1.Wish You Could’ve Seen Your Face (Jan. 2015) 2. This Weekend (2014) 3.Let Me Change Your Mind (2013) 4.1999 (2013) 5. Rural Route 4 (2013)
_ _ *Watch the video for his 2014 song ‘Next weekend’, below.
Band: Saint Ends Release: EP Year: 2015 Genre: Indie Home:Chatham-Kent Ontario Canada
Notes:Baby Teeth is the debut release from Chatham-Kent, ON, Canada’s Saint Ends. The EP features four songs that run the gamut from rock to country to indie. These Few Chords features CCMA-nominated pedal steel guitarist Rene Brousseau. “Baby Teeth signifies the growing pains of the band and the title accurately reflects these four songs as a whole,” says vocalist/guitarist Jesse Verleye.
Members: (Recording Line Up) Jesse-Dylan Verleye– Vox/Guitar Shawn Beaulieu – Guitar/B.Vox Kyle Jubenville– Guitar/B.Vox Dave Richie – Bass Charles Young – Drums
Tracks: 1. Math 2. If Love 3. These Few Chords 4. Mexico (You Better Dream Big Kid).
Band:Twang Bastards Year: 2014 Genre:Country & Rock Cover Band Home:Chatham/Wallaceburg/Sarnia
Members: Jeff Black– Bass & Vocals (Wallaceburg) Tony Bandoni– Guitar (Sarnia) Shawn Tasker– Drums (Chatham)
Covers includeA.Jackson, ZZ Top, Conway Twitty, Cars, Allman Brothers, Brad Paisley, CCR, Black Sabbath, Dio, Johnny Cash, Pink Floyd, The Beatles, Keith Urban, Jimi Hendrix, Rolling Stones, Merle Haggard, Tom Petty, Waylon Jennings, Poison & many more.
Artist:Brooklyn Roebuck Ep Release:Storyteller Year:2013 Genre:Country/Pop Home:Chatham Ontario Canada.
Tracks 1. Storyteller 2. I Don’t Need You 3. Jacked Up Pickup 4.Hold My Hand
Notes:In September 2012, Brooklyn won the cross-country search “YTV’sThe Next Star Season 5”. Auditions were held across Canada with over 4,000 hopefuls vying to become “The Next Star”. The finale was held live at Canada’s Wonderland north of Toronto, where over 3 million viewers voted and ultimately crowned Brooklyn the winner! As part of the show, she released her first single and video “The Way I See You”.
In December 2012, Brooklyn entered into her first recording agreement with Corus Entertainment/Country Music Television and distribution through Sony Music. In January 2013, she released her first single and video “LEMON & LIME”, an infectious pop track.
In March 2013, she recorded her second single, “ONE OF THESE DAYS”, at Sony/ ATV studios in Toronto with producer Rob Wells.
Links:
* Website here.
* Itunes Download/Preview link here.
* Watch video preview of this album @ youtube here.
Name:Ralph James Murphy Year:2012 Raised:Wallaceburg Ontario Born: Saffron Walden, England, 1944. Resides:Nashville Position:performer, producer, songwriter, publisher, and most recently, Vice President, International and Domestic Membership, ASCAP.
Ralph Murphy inducted into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame.
Canadian songwriter/producer/author Ralph Murphy is a lifetime achiever in the Music Business. Leaving Canada for Liverpool in 1965 led to his first #1 production/writing credit, “Call My Name” by James Royal in 1966. His early successes in Europe set the stage for his return to Toronto to produce platinum albums for April Wine (You Could Have Been A Lady) and in 1971 to have his first huge Country hit by Jeannie C. Riley (Good Enough To Be Your Wife). While in Nashville in 1972 to collect his first (of many) ASCAP Country Awards he felt excited by the creative environment and moved there to start a Publishing/production company with his pal Roger Cook. His songs have been recorded and released by dozens of artists like Randy Travis, Shania Twain, Ray Price, Crystal Gayle, Ronnie Milsap, Kathy Mattea, Micky Gilley and so many more. Having had chart success as a writer in every decade since the sixties puts him in a rare club. His newly released Murphy’s Laws of Songwriting, “The Book” has become a best seller with professional songwriters, universities and songwriter organizations worldwide. He is also the only Canadian to have been President of the Nashville Songwriters Association (NSAI), President of the Nashville Chapter of the Recording Academy (NARAS) and a National Trustee of NARAS. He has served on the Canadian Country Music Association Board, as well as the Songwriters Guild of America regional advisory board and the Southern Regional Writers Advisory board of ASCAP. Most recently he was presented the Jo Walker-Meador International Achievement Award by the Country Music Association (CMA) for services to Country Music worldwide. He is an active member of the CCMA, CMA, NARAS, Songwriters Association of Canada, SGA and ASCAP. – Caanadian Country Music Association.
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Email your info & pics to: chatham_music_archive@hotmail.com
Recent Notes 2013: *After seven years the wait is over and Michelle has rewarded her fans’ patience with STRONG, a superlative eleven-song collection of modern, relevant country music. Produced mostly by Jason Barry (arguably Canada’s finest young country producer), STRONG’s eleven songs are topical, inspirational and adventurous. Ten of the songs were co-written by Michelle – a first – marking her coming of age as a world-class songwriter. *Michelle perform as part of 2013 CMA Country Music Week! * (Nashville, June 25, 2013) Effective today, CMT Canada has added Michelle’s video of her current single at Canadian country radio, Strong, to its play list. * Global TV’s “Morning Show” airs live national TV interview with Michelle! *Michelle nominated for two CMAO Awards! *“Songs From the Halls” Tour Highlight: Michelle Wright awarded Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal! *Michelle headlines CTS Christmas Television Special, Christmas in the Square, this Friday, December 21!
Tracks: 1. Strong 2.Crazy Stupid Love 3. One Of These Days 4.What’s Better Than This 5. Laugh A Little 6. She’s A Keeper 7. Another Good Day 8.Together Forever 9.Walkin’ On A Heart That’s Breakin’ 10.Back To You 11. I’ll Cry Too
Highlights *Michelle had 25 top ten hits in Canada. Seven went to #1 *Five Gold records *Two multi-platinum records *World wide record sales nearing two million units & one million in Canada * Toured North America, Europe, Africa, South America, Asia, & Australia
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Email your info & pics to: chatham_music_archive@hotmail.com
Artist: Lonesome Lefty Year: 2009 Genre: Old time Country covers & originals. Born: Chatham-Kent Ontario Instruments: Acoustic guitar, fiddle. Contact: lonesomelefty@yahoo.ca
Current bands:
Lonesome Lefty & the Crying Shames. The Band is a revolving door of great local musicians based upon availability.
Duo – Two Dollar Bill.
Notes
* A documentry entitled ‘The Ghost of Lonesome Lefty’ was made by Tim Swaddling.
* Mainly performs in the Windsor area with regular shows at The Bridge Tavern and Sky Lounge.
* Main instruments are acoustic guitar & fiddle.
Preview the movie teaser here.
Listen to an interview here.
View his blog here.
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,
Band: “Just Country Boys” Home: Chatham-Kent Year:2012 Formed: 2008 Style: Country & 50s, 60’s
Members: Larry Flynn – Rhythm & Vocals Allan Flynn – Bass & Vocals George Segaert – Lead Guiitar Jim Deyo– Steel Guitar Carl– Drums (2008 – 2010) Len Lucier– Drums (2010)
Notes:Larry Flynn and son Allan Flynn contacted old friends George Segaert and Jim Deyo to join the group in late 2008. They started playing at parties and a few bars and decided to try a Sunday Jamboree at the Moose Hall in Wallaceburg. It was quite successful and the group today still enjoys playing a Jamboree at Branch 628 Legion in Chatham. Regulars such as Vic & Betty Tetreault, Mike & Melanie Shepley, Richard Tetreault and Ivan Firlotte can be enjoyed as well as many other local talents.
Artist: Roland Lozon CD: Move that Mountain Released: 2012 Genre : Country/ Instrumental Varieties Home: Chatham-Kent
Available in Chatham at: Frank’s Music Centre Musical Strings & Things Tony’s One Stop Music Shoppe
Notes:This CD contains twelve originals. Although the root of the music is finger style country guitar playing, Rolands talents can be heard with his use of fiddle, 5-string banjo, mandolin, & a track with hammer dulcimer.
At age 72, Roland carries on his passion for music & knowledge. I have met him a few times through work on the archive for his previous works in bands, most notably the Jubilaires. Without getting too much into how nice this guy is in person, let’s just say his sharing of musical knowledge & human kindness was extremely impressive, often only found in small towns like ours.
Tracks: 1. Move That Mountain, 2. Camptown Races/Wheels, 3. Alone On Your Star, 4. Remington Ride, 5. Seahorse Bounce, 6. Bello Carosello, 7. Gail’s Theme, 8. Wind That Clock, 9. Mont Royal Swing, 10. Bewildered Butterfly, 11. Up & Down, 12. Scottish Sky, 13. Shortbread Special, 14. Une Femme (Going Home), 15. Are You Teasing Me?, 16. Home Sweet Home, 17. Look Up, 18. Orange Blossom Special.
History: Jubilaires(1956-1961) Myers Bros & the Jubilaires(1961-1979)
Weekly radio show on CFCO (8 Years)
Warm up band for Opry shows such as Marty Robbins & the Hank Snow show.
Played for such stars as Ronnie Robbins, Minnie Pearl, Don Gibson, Charlie Walker, Wilf Carter, Skeeter Davis, Jan Howard, & more.
Later bands included Jubilaires II, Front Page News, Vic & the Conchords, Country Drifters.
Current bands include the Dover Red Necks & the Foggy Mountain Boys.
Additional Musicians: Ron Jubenville – Bass (Track 16) Eric Trachy– Cello (Track 14)
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.
Artist: Michelle Wright Release: The Wright Songs – An Acoustic Evening With Michelle Wright Year: 2011 Genre:Country Website:http://www.michelle-wright.com Born: Chatham-Kent Resides:Merlin Ontario, currently in Nashville
Notes: The Wright Songs – An Acoustic Evening With Michelle Wright captures the magical essence of the more than 40 acoustic trio concerts Canadian country music star Michelle Wright performed in Canada during the past two years. Recently inducted into the Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame, Wright has chosen to spotlight songs from her CDs both old and new on this, her first live album. The Wright Songs features sparkling acoustic arrangements of many of Wright’s biggest hits, including her career-making smash, “Take It Like A Man,” the SOCAN–award winning “I Surrender,” her ground-breaking look at adoption, “He Would Be Sixteen,” her successful collaboration with pianist Jim Brickman, “Your Love,” and thirteen other fan favourites recorded at theatres in Lethbridge, Medicine Hat and Olds, Alberta, at various times during 2009 and 2010.
Highlights:
Michelle had 25 top ten hits in Canada. Seven went to #1
Five Gold records
Two multi-platinum records
World wide record sales nearing two million units & one million in Canada
Toured North America, Europe, Africa, South America, Asia, & Australia
Tracks 1. In The Blink Of An Eye 2. I Surrender 3. You Can’t Lose Them All 4. What Love Looks Like 5. He Would Be Sixteen 6. Something Wild 7. Crank My Tractor 8. I Don’t Wanna Be That Strong 9. Safe In The Arms Of Love 10. Guitar Talk 11. Your Love 12. The Old Song And Dance 13. I’ve Forgotten You 14. Broken 15. Nobody’s Girl 16. Take It Like A Man
17. Everything And More
Artist:Charlie Dorner Home: Chatham-Kent Genre: Country Music Year: 2011
Charles has been performing country music with his voice & acoustic guitar for years. He is known for his choice of classic country outlaw covers by all the bad boys. Charles has also been crafting his own music over the years.
You can catch him live around town at various functions, most recently at the ULTIMATE SPORTS BAR in Chatham.
Do you have pics & info? Email us
chatham_music_archive@hotmail.com
Artist: Gary Stocking Release: From the Heart Format: Cassette Genre: Country, Rock Home: Chatham Ontario Year: 1992
Gary has been a popular musician from the area since the early eighties. He was a member of local bands such as Driftwood & Shades of Country. During the time of this release, Gary fronted ‘Gary Stocking & Magnum’ after recording in Nashville.
Venue: Golden Tap and Grill City: Chatham Ontario Genre: Country Music Bar Bands: Live bands on weekends Phone: (519) 351-1907 Address: 429 Grand Avenue East
The Golden Tap has remained the only true country music bar in Chatham Ontario since the early nineties. But it did not begin there. The venue was previously known as the ‘Kingsway Hotel’, which had a good run through the 1970’s to the early 1990’s. Bands from around the continent (big and small) performed here in the 1970’s when live music was the main and only source of weekly entertainment.
Today, you can still enjoy country music bands performing every weekend at the Golden Tap.
Band: The Country Playboys Home: Chatham Ontario Area Genre: Country Music Formed: 1959 Disbanded: 1961
Members: Victor Tetreault – Vocals, Guitar Albert Mays – Steel Guitar Adam Takacs – Accordion Glen Pickering – Slap Bass Sammy Marionchuk – Fiddle Bill Pawlak – Drums
Pre ‘Country Cowboys info: 1957 – 1958 A Singing Duo, consisting of Mr Maurice Cyr and Mr Victor Tetreault,
both singing guitarists, who would entertain at weddings and parties in the Dover and Chatham, Ontario area.
Info: Mr. Cyr moved back to Quebec, and Victor added a few more fellows to form
“The Country Playboys”. Mr. Albert Mays of Blenheim on steel guitar, Mr. Adam Takacs
of Chatham on accordion, Mr. Glen Pickering of Blenheim,Ontario on slap bass, and Mr. Sammy
Marionchuk of Ridgetown,Ontario on fiddle, Mr. Bill Pawlak of Chatham,Ontario on drums, along with Vic on guitar and vocals.
Band: Destiny Genre: Country Home: Chatham Year: 1977 Formed: Mar. 1976
Members: Charlie McDonald Len Lucier Norm Caron Vince Emery Jim Devo
Destiny was selected as the top band in Southwestern Ontario and travelled to Ottawa for the nationals. They were also one of the top local acts of the day.
Artist: Bob Lucier Album: Nerves of Steel Circa: 1976 Genre: Country Instrument: Steel guitar Home: Bob is from Chatham Ontario (Grande Pointe)
Note: Bobby Lucier has been a leader in steel guitar and is world renowned for his unique style and ability. Bob was the resident Steel Player for “The Tommy Hunter Show” when it aired on the CBC television network in Canada for many years.
This album contains original works and material by other artists.
1. HEY GOOD LOOKIN’ 2. YOU AND ME B 3. CITY OF NEW ORLEANS 4. C’MON SON (Bob Lucier) 5. THE HOMECOMING 6. FLOWERS ON THE WALL 7. HAPPY WORLD (Bob Lucier) 8. THE WAY WE WERE 9. JAMAICAN STEEL 10. MY PLEASURE (Bob Lucier) 11. I CAN’T HELP IT 12. TOO HIGH Stevie Wonder
Click on the video below to play the album preview.
*Bob also plays steel guitar this year on:
Jesse Winchester’s album “Let the Rough Side Drag”, 1976.
Bill Amesbury – Can You Feel It – Bill signed with Yorkville Records in 1973 and made several singles in 1973-1974. After one non-charting single, the second – “Virginia (Touch Me Like You Do)” – went to #1 in Canada and did well in many countries. In 1999, it received a SOCAN Classic award for 100,000 radio plays. Bill’s success attracted Neil Bogart, who was starting up the Casablanca label. While KISS were the first signing, Bill Amesbury had the first record on the label, with the US issue of “Virginia.” This led to an album, “Jus’ A Taste Of The Kid” (1974). In 1976, Bill signed with Capitol and made one album, “Can You Feel It,” featuring the contributions of some of the finest session musicians in Canada. Bill had great success in England with his records on the Power Exchange label. His songs were discovered by other artists such as Long John Baldry, Natalie Cole and Mitch Ryder, who covered them on their albums. There were no further records by Bill Amesbury. He underwent sex-reassignment surgery and has been Barbara Amesbury for a quarter-century now. Barbara is a patron of the arts in Toronto, a filmmaker and social activist.
Band: The Myers Brothers and the Jubilaires Year: 1978-1979 Home: Chatham Ontario Genre: Country.
Members:
Ray Trahan – Drums
Patricia-Gail Lozon – Vocals
Ray Myers – Vocals and rhythm guitar
Ernie Marchand – Pedal steel
Roland Myers – Bass and vocals
Roland Lozon – Lead guitar, fiddle
While the band continues to perform at local clubs and events, they have been landing big shows and new experiences to their enjoyment of being musicians.
In 1978 and 1979, the band was on the bill for some of the biggest country music shows in Canada. They were Canadian guests for the travelling “Grand Ole Opry Show. In 1978, they played Halifax, Moncton and Fredericton in (June 16, 17, 18). In March of 1979, they played Kitchener and the London Gardens. The big show included Grant Turner, MINNIE PEARL, Stonewall Jackson, Archie Campbell, Jeanne Pruett, Red Sovine, Jim and Jesse, The Stonemans, Jack Greene, Jeanne Seely, Marie Bottrell, Jimmy C. Newman, Penny DeHaven, Ray Pillow, Charlie Walker, Roy Drusky, Ronny Robbins, Tammy Wynette, The Stoney Mountain Cloggers. Canadian Guests included “Roger Quick and the Rainbows”, and “The Myers Brothers and The Jubilaires”.
1979 also marked when the guys became involved with the Belle River Singing and Fiddle Contest held annually. The event consistently draws thousands of people and involves musicians from far and wide.
From 1979 to 1981 they performed under their current band name. They would go on to play the event until 1989 under their future band names “Jubilaires II” and “Front Page News”.
Note: The group released an LP in 1968 and many singles (45rpm’s) the following year.
Band: The Jubilaires Year: 1956 Home: Chatham Ontario Genre: Country Formed: 1956
Members (L-R) Lionel Richie – Drums
Oscar Demers – Rhythm guitar
Roland Lozon – Fiddle
Oscar Benoit – Lead guitar.
Circa: 1956 – 1961
The Jubilaires have a long history that lasted through many decades.
The original line-up was an instrumental group that put on their own dances in order to perform live.
They rented an old hall, which was originally for hay storage on the second floor of a horse stable in Pain Court, next to the Dover Hotel. Posters were made, a bouncer was hired and a refreshment booth was set up. When the “Bunny Hop” was played, the floor would bounce and it was concern for the band that the crowd would go through the floor. Lots of dust would fly up at each hop. There were no chairs and tables, just a board along the side walls.
For the very first dance, the boys cleaned the hall on Wednesday, decorated it on Thursday, played it on Friday night, and cleaned it up on Saturday. They took the profit of $18 and split it 6 ways. These go getters put on a dance every Friday from June 30th to November 30, 1956.
Sam Lozon did join the band as the singer and guitarist circa 1957 and decided to retire from music.
During performances, the band would usually spot two female singers. Doreen Lecuyer and Louella Demers (Oscar’s sister)
In 1960, The Myers Brothers joined the band resulting in a name change to “Myers Brothers and the Jubilaires (The)”. After that long run, they became known as the Jubilaires II, followed by a brief and final line-up called “Front Page News”.
Duo: Ray Francis and Lucy Schaefer Year: 2009 Genre: Country Music
The musically talented duo performs at Churches and nursing homes around Chatham Ontario.
Ray Francis, 78, has been writing and performing music for over 60 years. He has released six records and earned success in the 1960’S and 1970’S as a recording artist, entertainer, and radio star.
Ray is a true world class musician and human being who lives and breathes music with a passion that cannot be denied. He continues to bring smiles to his audiences with his talent, sincerity, humour, and just plain likeability.
To learn more about Ray’s music, please visit previous posts in the Chatham Music Archive.
Ray’s Discography:
Ray Francis and the Whippoorwills – 1963 – Country Jamboree
The Whippoorwills – 1964 – The Whippoorwills
Ray Francis – 1973 – The Country Way
Ray Francis – 1973 – An Olde Tyme Christmas
Ray Francis – 1974 – Two Sides of Country
Ray Francis – 1975 – The Good Old Days
Artist: Ray Francis Release: The Good Old Days Format: LP Album Year: 1975 Home: Chatham Ontario Canada Label: Condor Number: A-977-1450 Genre: Country Music
The record includes four original songs by Ray Francis. Rays son Mike (Pepe) Francis is a noted producer on this record and plays guitar on it. Mike is one of Canada’s most accomplished studio musicians.
Discography:
Ray Francis and the Whippoorwills – 1963 – Country Jamboree
The Whippoorwills – 1964 – The Whippoorwills Ray Francis – 1973 – The Country Way
Ray Francis – 1973 – An Olde Tyme Christmas
Ray Francis – 1974 – Two Sides of Country
Ray Francis – 1975 – The Good Old Days
Cover Photo: Marjon Studios
Tracks
01. Little bit of Heaven (Ray Francis) 02. Movin’ on (Merle Haggard) 03. Never gone to stay (Larry Douglas) 04. Good Old Days (Ray Francis) 05. Hell hath no fury (Shirl Milette) 06. Out of my mind (Ray Francis) 07. Here’s your roses Mary Ann (R. Schiafe/D. Hogan) 08. Only too glad (Ray Francis) 09. Cryin’ every night (Shirl Milette) 10. Before the next teardrop falls (V. Keith/B. Peters)
Artist: Ray Francis Release: Two Sides of Country Format: LP Album Year: Circa 1974 Home: Chatham Ontario Canada
Label: Condor Distribution: Marathon Music INC. Number: 977-1404 Genre: Country Music
Notes: Ray Francis was born Feb 9th 1931 in Chatham.
Back Cover Notes:
Outside the city of Chatham, Ontario, on a small farm, a thirteen year old boy by the name of Ray Francis started strumming chords on his first guitar.
Ray’s love of country music was greatly influenced by picking up from his radio the famous ‘Grand Ole Opry’ show from WSM Nashville, Tennessee, every Saturday night.
By the time Ray was in his twenties, he had formed his own band. With his increasing popularity with the fans, Ray was constantly being booked for club and stage appearances. Later the youngster who had only heard the stars of ‘The Grand Ole Opry’ on radio, now found himself appearing onstage with many of these same stars.
Ray’s versatility as a performer, musician, comedian, and writer has brought him recognition on both sides of the border.
As a performer myself, I would hate to follow Ray’s show onstage. His ability to impersonate many of the Nashville artists plus come back and sing his own originals, is the true sign of a great overall performer.
The makings of a great entertainer is like baking a cake. You take a handful of sincerity, a touch of comedy, a warm personality, and a great love for country music and you have my friend, Ray Francis.
Columbia Recording Artist Dallas Harms
Tracks
01. Forbidden lovers (Stanton-Walker) 02. I knew her then (R. Francis – Doug Springsted) 03. Who’s Julie 04. One nite stand (R.ay Francis) 05. Laura 06. Just let me know (Ray Francis) 07. Margie’s at the Lincoln Park Inn 08. Sweet misery (Ray Francis – Mike Francis) 09. Anita you’re dreaming 10. The downward side of lonesome (R. Francis) 11. If Ginny knew (Ray Francis) 12. In a mansion
Discography as of 1973:
Ray Francis and the Whippoorwills – 1963 – Country Jamboree
The Whippoorwills – 1964 – The Whippoorwills
Ray Francis – 1973 – The Countrey Way
Ray Francis – 1973 – An Olde Tyme Christmas
Ray Francis – 1974 – Two Sides of Country
Band: Ray Francis Release: The Country Way Format: LP Album Year: 1973 Label: Marathon Music Genre: Country Music
This is the first solo record from Ray Francis. He had recorded two records previously under the name “Ray Francis and the Whippoorwills”.
Tracks Side one: 01. Grazing in the greener pastures 02. Drinking champagne 03. Deep water 04. I’ll be there 05. Happy tracks 06. Running gun Side two: 07. Restless woman 08. If you leave me 09. Son of hickory holler’s tramp 10. You can take the boy out of the country 11. Four in the morning 12. Black jack
Cover Photo by: John Haslip
This debut solo record charted number one on radio. From coast to coast, the first single “Restless Women” did very well especially on the east coast. This song was an original that Ray had co-wrote and was not sure if it would make it on the album, but the record label liked it and rightfully so.
Ray had told me how he first heard it on the radio while driving home on the 401. He pulled over. He called his record company to see if they knew it was being played. He was informed that it was tracked and being played all over the country. The musician is always the last to know, and this is the perfect example. S. Beaulieu.
Liner Notes:
In a world of music, there is the entertainer and there is the singer, Ray Francis is both.
Ray Francis the entertainer, is a well known name throughout Southern Ontario…where he has been performing since the late 1950’s. He formed his first band, The Whippoorwills which soon gained the reputation of the best country band throughout the area. The group often appeared on “Opry” shows and for awhile the boys toured the U.S.A.
Ray was offered a job playing drums and fronting the Gary Buck band, so he moved his wife and son to Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario. Being constantly on the road and away from his family wasn’t the life for Ray so after a few months he moved back to Southern Ontario taking a job outside the music business. However his love of entertaining soon became strong again, so he formed another band and with his teenaged son, Mike, as lead guitarist. Shortly after Mike was offered a full time job in the music industry, so the band was dissolved. Ray joined another local group, The Rancheros (1973). The band enjoys a great success and is constantly in demand.
As one of the best “Front men” in the business today, Ray is always in demand to M.C. and his impersonations are always a hit of any show. As an entertainer he is superb.
This is Ray’s first album and listening to his beautiful rendition of “If you leave me tonight I’ll cry”, you’ll hear Ray the ballad singer. He’s equally at home with Country as witness, “Running Gun”. Listen to Ray the composer as he does his own “Restless Woman”. In face just buy this album and give yourself a treat.
I’m proud to have had this chance to introduce you to my friend, Ray Francis… all ‘round great person…husband…father…singer…composer and most of all entertainer. Marilynne Caswell, M.C. Talent Agency. London Ontario.
Band: The Whippoorwills Release: The Whippoorwills Format: LP Album Year: 1964 Formed: 1958 Disbanded: late 1964 Home: Chatham Ontario Canada
Label: Canatal Records Genre: Country Music
Members:
Ray Francis – Rythm guitar
Bill Taylor – Drums
John Tangelis – Bass
Ray Dauphin – Tenor guitar
Max Dauphin – Steel guitar and fiddle
Tracks: 01.Honey lovin’ (Bollington) 02.When two worlds collide (Roger Miller and Bill Anderson) 03.Lost in the islands (Reg Dauphin) 04.A wound time can’t erase (B. Johnson) 05.Ridin’ high (Max Dauphin) 06.Little darlin’ (John Tangelis) 07.Drivin’ nails in my coffin (Jerry Irby) 08.Dead end twist ( William S. Taylor) 09.What would you do (Jim Reeves) 10.South of the border ( Carr and Kennedy) 11.Tears broke out on me ( Hank Cochrane) 12.Tears will fall ( Ray Francis)
This is the second of two releases.
Liner Notes:
Most country music lovers in Canada and the U.S. have heard of Ray Francis and his western group – “The Whippoorwills”.
Ray and “The Whippoorwills” have appeared on the best loved country shows, including “Grand Old Opry”, with such well known artists as Brenda Lee, Ferlin Husky, Minnie Pearl, Tex Ritter and others of equal fame.
This versatile country and western group are constantly touring and making personal appearances, in both counties.
The vocal and instrumental selections recorded were carefully chosen and they feature the melodic sound of the steel guitar, which adds greatly to the rounded blend of this album. The groups first love is the type of music they recorded on this album.
Standing in the studio in their stocking feet, Ray Francis and his men played one of the finest western and country sessions we have ever heard. Why not share it with us?
Art Snider – Canatal Records.
Note:After this second album, Ray chose a solo career, recording four more albums and appeared on many TV shows.
Recorded at: Newberry Sound Studio LTD. Engineer: Dave Newberry and Art Snider Produced by: Art Snider Cover Photo: Robert Ragsdale, assisted by Margaret Epp
About Ray:
Ray bought his first guitar at the age of 13 and taught himself how to play by watching others in his area, including men living in railroad cars. Ray lived on Edgar Street which was behind the rail road station in Chatham. These train carts were home to men who worked for the rail road but travelled from city to city with their work. Ray would watch them play guitar then ask them to show him how to play that new chord he never saw before. He would then rush home and practice it until he got it down.
After a long run of it, the road took its toll on him and he decided to walk away from it all to be home with family and take on a job in his home town. Ray’s son Michael is one of Canada’s most accomplished studio musicians and carries the legacy on. S. Beaulieu
Artist: Bradley J. Preston Release: 45 RPM Single Year: 1983
Home: Chatham Ontario Genre: Country vocalist Born: 1951
Note: This is Bradley’s first professional recording.
Tracks Side A: In The Spring The Roses Always Turn Red (Dorsey Burnette) Side B: You Gave Me A Mountain (Marty Robbins)
Bradley J. Preston is currently a singer with the popular local country band “The Melody Ramblers”.
He has taken an extra step by recording a single and producing 1000 copies at his own expense of $5,000. This effort to branch out has taken Mr. Bradley to a career touring the U.S.A., Canada, and over seas.
In the 1970’s, Chatham was a hot spot for musicians with around 400 people in the local Union. There were more venues (Clubs, bars, legions etc) to play in Chatham than most surrounding cities offered. Bands would play six nights a week at a venue than move on to the next. They would have the calendar year booked solid before the year started.
Then, the drinking laws changed and venues were only able to offer bands two to three nights in a row to play. If you wanted to make a living playing music, you now had to travel to find the work. Bradley chose to pursue music and this took him on a journey into places he had never been before. It was a risk, a chance, and an adventure. Bradley went for it. S. Beaulieu
Band: Melody Ramblers Home: Chatham Ontario Circa: 1978 Style: Country Covers Band History: Ran from 1953-1994 with various line ups.
Members:
(Back Row)
Bruno Pinsonault – Bass
Mark Buckwheat – Lead Vocals, Rhythm Guitar
Larry St.Pierre – Drums
Dan St.Pierre – Guitar
(Front Row)
Dennis Smith
Notes: Mark Buckwheat would later join the band Home Grown.
Band: Melody Ramblers Home: Chatham Ontario Year: 1953 Band: 1953-1994 Style: Country and Western Covers
Original Members:
(From left to Right in above photo.)
Joe Barnier – Guitar
Marie Barnier – Vocals
Louella Barnier – Vocals
Francis Barnier – Drums
Ralph St. Pierre – Fiddle
Joe Demers – Pedal Steel
Rita Demers – Vocals
Theresa St. Pierre – Vocals
Sherley St. Pierre – Guitar
Who would have thought when Sherley St. Pierre and his wife Theresa formed a small country music band “The Melody Ramblers” that they started a country music tradition. Even though country music styles have changed over the years, the name “Melody Ramblers” had lasted 41 years.
Sherley St. Pierre performed in the band from 1953 to 1975, but the band carried on and has always involved several relatives.
In these early years, they did not have a bass player in the band, so the bass was simulated with the pedal steel guitar when needed. You would never know the difference by listening to it.
The very first live shows the band did were for $35 a night in the 1950’s. It was not unusual for them to perform two shows a day on the weekend, often doing something like a wedding in the day time and a night show at an establishment. Some of the places they played in these early years were Big Point, Stoney Point Club, Port Lambton, Chatham Polish Hall, Blenheim, and Tilbury. The group also performed at the Pyranon Ballroom in Chatham.
* Sherley St. Pierre was honoured and inducted into the Grande Point Hall Of Fame.
* Photo of Sherley with his Dobro Above: Taken Oct. 2nd 1949. He was only 17 in this picture (Born in 1932), just four years before forming the band.
* Gear photo: (Sherley St.Pierre) 1952 Gibson ES-5, his 1964 Gibson Titan III amp and even his old microphone. This is the gear he used way back in the day with the Melody Ramblers.
Photos donated to the Chatham Music Archive by the St. Pierre’s.
Les Hoffman – Lead guitar
Mark Wolfe – Drums
Waide Holland – Keyboards, Vocals
Randy Young – Bass, Vocals
Eddy Larsen (Ole) – Guitar, Vocals (Front)
Notes:
The band ran from 1980 to 1985 and was a road band. During this time, a new kind of country was emerging with bands like Alabama and the popularity of southern rock with the likes of Lynyrd Skynyrd. Texas was a popular cover band to see during this period of time. It was common for a band to play the same venue for six nights a week then move to the next.
Eddie Larsen and Waide Holland played together in their high school aged band “Zeke and the Moonshiners”. Zeke and the Moonshiners would later change their name to “The Missing Links”, the most popular rock and roll band to record a vinyl LP from this area in the sixties. Their old buddy drummer (from The Missing Links 1966) Bill McGrath became a booking agent in Toronto for high end acts and took on Texas as a client. This favour helped give Texas the ability to develop quickly and professionally into a solid band with greater opportunities.
Texas toured Ontario from Quebec to Michigan playing night clubs and shows which included a concert in The Royal York Hotel, Toronto. Texas also wrote and recorded several original songs slated for their first album.
Artist: Jay Allan Release: Please Don’t Change Year: 1998 Genre: Country Home: Bothwell (Chatham-Kent)
Notes: Ontario singer/songwriter Jay Allan has been writing songs since the age of 14.
Tracks
1. Please Don’t Change….3:50 2. Home Sweet Home…3:09 3. The Way That I Do…3:37 4. High School Dance…4:43 5. Silver Clay Road…3:50 6. Square One…3:26 7. I’m Gettng By (Lonely All the Time)…3:16 8. Sam (Reflections of a Man)…3:20 9. Until It Was Gone…2:14 10. Sure, I Could Say…3:20 11. (Not Just Another) Face in the Crowd…3:30
All songs written by Jay Allan Schnekenburger
Visit Jay online here and here.
Artist: Wendy Jenkins Release: Self Titled Format: Vinyl LP Genre: Country and Western Year: 1983
Notes: The CD contains a mix of original music and covers.
At age 21, Wendy is lucky to live two good lives as one. By day, she works as a quality control technician after graduating with honors from Ridgetown College. By night, she is a country singer with her single “Look out Love” that is in the top 50 of the country and western Charts.
Wendy has also been performing in ‘The Melody Ramblers’ for the past two years. They are a popular local country band that originally formed in 1953. The new album was recorded in Nashville and Toronto.
Tracks: 01. He’s Cheatin’ On Me 02. One Big Happy Family 03. Walk Softly When You Go 04. (Just) Two Lonely People 05. Look Out Love 06. Turn The Light On 07. Rivers Of My Mind 08. I Did My Best (not to love him) 09. Blame It On The Rain 10. It’s Not Me
Musician: Rene Brosseau Year: 2009 Home: Chatham-Kent Ontario Instrument: Pedal steel and slide guitar Style: Country Music
pictures from Sept. 11th. 2009
Rene Brosseau performs with 2008 New Male Vocalist in Canada Gord Bamford. His hit songs include “POSTCARD FROM PASADENA”, “BLAME IT ON THAT RED DRESS”,” LITTLE GUY,” “DRINKIN’ BUDDY” & “WENT FOR 1 BUT STAYED ‘TILL 2”.
Rene is a world class pedal steel and slide guitar player who chooses to keep Chatham as his home. He has played with many international acts and continues to be called upon by high profile groups that come through Canada.
Band: The Jubilaires Year: 2007 Home: Chatham Kent Area
Members:
Oscar Demers – Pedal Steel, Guitar
Ray Trahan – Drums
Ray Myers – Rhythm guitar, Vocal
Roland Myers – Bass, Vocal
Roland Lozon – Lead guitar, Fiddle
The group has a long and rich history in this community. The Jubilaires disbanded years ago with a new formation coming as the Jubilaires II. These pictures are from the induction of Oscar Demers into the Grande Pointe “Hall Of Fame” in 2007.
NASHVILLE STORM & FORTY BELOW Type: Cover band Home: Chatham Kent Year: 2009
Nashville Storm & Forty Below, performing a mix of new and old country, 50’s & 60’s music and classic rock.
Members:
Lead vocals / acoustic: Paul Larocque/Nashville Storm.
Lead Guitar/vocals: Chris Bird Drums/vocals: Adam Danielski Bass/vocals: Tammy Jones
Notes: Tammy has played with many different talents, such as Mark Lindsey, Rene’ Comeau, Tim Dee, Ken Ramsden, Frank Yankovitch, Greg Mankiss,Dale Revard,Chris Bird and Chuck Fitzgerald to name a few along with many known great drummers.
Some of the bands she played with were Shenendoah,at the age of 18 which was her Mothers band, Kanyon, The Continentals, Marquis, Crooked River Band, Tempist, No Conditions,JRB TRIO,Slip n Out, 40 Below, and XSTATIC!!! Catch them here: http://www.myspace.com/nashvillestorm , http://www.nashvillestormnet.com/ ,
Artists: The Laws Releases: Ride It Out Year: 2007 Connection: John Law was born in Chatham Ontario.
John Law – vocals, guitar, mandolin
Michele Law – vocals, bass
Note: Recorded in Nashville with producer Regie Hamm. The Laws trademark “tight-as-a-glove” harmony singing is highlighted throughout the 11 songs.
…..Cut to 2007, and John and Michele are not only husband and wife but are also partners in music, performing as The Laws and getting ready to make a strong move for greater recognition in the Americana ranks in this country behind a typically ambitious touring schedule (200-plus nights a year on the road) and a stirring new album for their own label, JML Music, titled Ride It Out. The duo’s fifth long player, Ride It Out is noticeably lacking any false notes in its compelling original songs, empathetic musicianship and emotionally charged vocal performances.
Recorded in Nashville with producer/writer Regie Hamm, and co-written with some of Music City’s top tunesmiths, Ride It Out showcases all the Laws’ strengths. Stylistically its songs range far and wide within a roots framework. Smooth country folk powers the album opening “Am I Still the One”; “Put Some Love Into It” is a jazz -tinged frolic keyed by Michele’s saucy vocal; the guitar-mandolin instrumental “Texacadia” is a Nickel Creek-style display of assured, hot pickin’; the classic country-tinged “Too Lonesome to Cry” features lyrics as simple, direct and devastating as the Steve Earle of “Valentine’s Day” and “Hometown Blues”; and, to close things out, “Getting Over You” is a bopping little folk-flavored ditty that evinces an ironic, Steve Goodman-like sense of the absurd in its account of someone doing everything but getting over a lost love. Vocally, Michele ranges from a soothing, plaintive, Emmylou Harris-like harmony (“Am I Still the One”) to assertive, Martina McBride-style belting (“Getting Over You”), whereas John’s rich, nasally tenor bears some semblance to that of the estimable Texas craftsman and New Traditionalist pioneer Radney Foster. And despite the presence of a few other players on the album, Ride It Out has the intimate feel of a Laws stage show, where the only sounds come from the duo’s voices and instruments.
John and Michele, who have become accustomed to living in their van (in fact, their personal possessions are in storage in Canada; they are, in essence, homeless), have made a commitment of sorts by putting down roots in Nashville, where they have rented an apartment and have signed a publishing deal with SWITR, Inc.
Not least of the Laws’ selling points is their acumen in the kitchen. They published a cookbook and have appeared on numerous cooking shows through the years, generating almost as much press for their culinary skills as for their music. They also offer shows that are part cooking workshop, part musical performance. This sprang from their determination to eat healthy while touring constantly.
Cooking or music? Music or cooking? At one point that might have been a tossup. Now, however, with the assured, resonant performances on exhibit on Ride It Out, it appears the Laws are really ready to start cooking. But not in the kitchen
Chatham Music Archive 