Liner Notes: Revealing Chats With Canada's Retro Music Makers (Dusty Discs Radio)

Chris Birkett is a multi award-winning singer, songwriter, instrumentalist and producer who has collaborated with many world-renowned artists including Sinead O’Connor, Buffy Sainte-Marie, Quincy Jones, Peter Gabriel, and more. He has a Grammy, four Junos, the Polaris Music Prize and three international AMPEX Golden Reel Awards for excellence in the music business. In this chat with Dan Hare, Chris opens up about: the experience that put him on the path to a musical career; being homeless in England; how he came to work with Sinead O’Connor and Buffy Saint-Marie; his spiritual beliefs that influence his music and his life; what makes a good producer and engineer, and so much more. Find out about Chris @chrisbirkett.ca and check out his music on YouTube @ChrisBirkettMusic

Brian Miessner, songwriter and lead singer/bassist for North America’s first Beatles cover band, Liverpool, as well as the late ‘’70s, early ‘80s band Aerial in this revealing chat with Dan Hare, Brian talks about: his early musical experiences in Saskatchewan and his move to Toronto; the tremendous success of Liverpool and their U.S. exposure; why the band name changed to Aerial; his very busy solo career and what he’s doing now. Find out more about Brian @brianmiessner.com

Keith Hampshire - has had a wide ranging career including, DJ, actor, commercial voice over artist, jingle singer, TV show host and singer of three songs that hit the Top 10 here in Canada. In this chat Keith shares much of his remarkable journey with host Dan Hare including: his work in Pirate Radio in the UK; how renovating apartments landed him as a cast regular on The Wayne and Shuster Hour; why he chose to record ‘Daytime, Nighttime’ and ‘The First Cut Is The Deepest’; the story behind recording ‘OK Blue Jays’ and the Gold Record that came with it, and much, much more of his incredible journey. You can find out about Keith @keithhampshire.com

Dan Hare,  acclaimed entertainer and musician,  moves from hosting this podcast to becoming our special guest. In this chat with  Dusty Discs Radio’s Program Director Lori Dean, Dan spills the goods on the songs and recording of his new, retro-rock album ‘I Love This Life’. He talks about: the overall flavour of the album and why he chose these 10 songs; the inspirations for some of those songs: working with legendary recording engineer/producer Mike Fraser and the lifelong friendship that has developed; the stellar musicians who play on the album; recording “old school” and much more. Listen to ‘I Love This Life’ through https://rayzordistro.lnk.to/ILoveThisLife and find out more details on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/dawnhazemusicretrorock

This is the 23rd episode of our special series ‘Guest Glimpses’, short bits from longer conversations with previous guests. You’ll hear about 10 minutes of each guest’s 60+ minute chat with show host Dan Hare. Featured guests this week are:

RAY MATERICK - Canadian icon, singer-songwriter, and guitar player best known for his song "Linda Put the Coffee On", a major hit single in both Canada and the USA in 1975. In this bit from the much longer interview, Ray talks about: his early days and landing a record deal; how Bruce Cockburn ended up playing did a guitar solo ‘Linda’; why he took a break from performing and what he did instead and more.

RANDY HIEBERT - Winnipeg-born guitarist, bass player, recording engineer and producer who currently plays with, and engineers/produces for, The Bellamy Brothers. In this bit from his chat with Dan Hare, Randy talks about: his family’s band and early guitar influences; playing with The Charlie Daniels Band in a concert in Japan; joining The Bellamy Brothers and more.

MIKE FRASER - Legendary sound engineer, mixer and producer who has worked on iconic rock albums for AC/DC, Aerosmith, Van Halen, Metallica and many others. In this short bit Mike talks about: what a good sound engineer needs; working on Prism and Loverboy albums; how he came to engineer six records with AC/DC and more.

JOHN WEBSTER - keyboardist for Stonebolt and Red Rider and studio musician for such megastars as Aerosmith, AC/DC, Alice Cooper, Bon Jovi, Rush and many others. In this bit John shares highlight from; his early days in the business; his days with Stonebolt; why the band broke up and more.

LISTEN to the full interview with each guest @ linernotes.ca.

Robert Lawson, insider and expert on The Guess Who and author of ‘Wheatfield Empire’, the definitive comprehensive history on The Guess Who, returns for a second chat with Dan Hare. In this riveting conversation Dan and Robert wade through facts, rumours, insights, contradictions, complications, questionable conduct, and and an “unsavoury character” as they look at the controversy surrounding the lawsuit launched by Randy Bachman and Burton Cummings against the current usage of The Guess Who name and likeness. 

Bob Wegner, multi-instrumentalist, touring musician, and author of the Max Webster biography ‘High Class’ joins Dan Hare to talk about his book on this iconic band. In this superb chat Bob also shares: highlights from his own career in musical theatre and other ventures; the unique appeal of Max Webster and the many genres that influenced their sound; Kim Mitchell’s influence on the band and a look at his solo career in comparison; why the band didn’t have more international popularity; what makes them still relevant 40 years after they broke up, and much, much more. Get your copy of the book @highclassmax.com, check out his Max Webster website @maxwebsterlive.ca and find out more about Bob @bobwegner.ca

Dave Wanless, singer, songwriter and lead singer for the 1990s hard rock/heavy metal band Sven Gali. In this chat with Dan Hare Dave shares: the story of how the band got together in one night and came up with their name; his connection to some of the biggest artists in Canada; why an accident stopped the band for a period and how that impacted their career; information on new music and video from the band, and much more. Find out about Dave and Sven Gali on Facebook @SvenGaliCanada

Ronnie Robson, iconic bassist, multi-instrumentalist, producer and mixing/mastering engineer who has worked with, or recorded bass tracks, for the greatest acts in music such as Ozzy Osbourne, Black Sabbath, White Snake, Deep Purple, John Lennon, Thin Lizzy, Alice Cooper, Goddo, Jethro Tull and many, many others. In this fascinating, music-filled chat with Dan Hare Ronnie talks about: taking the “safe” route through the music industry and why that worked so well for him; his many and varied projects and his multi-faceted life and career; what he contributed to the book 'Titans of Bass: The Tactics, Habits and Routines from over  130 of the World’s Best', and much, much more. Find out about Ronnie @ronnierobson.com

Eddie Bullen is a pianist, composer, arranger, and producer and recipient of an abundance of awards (including a Juno) and recognition (including a Grammy nomination) for his outstanding talents. To date Eddie has produced over 200 albums. In this fascinating chat with Dan Hare, Eddie talks about: his musical background in Grenada; coming to Canada; fusing musical genres including jazz, reggae, calypso etc.; working with his sons; his mentoring programs and talks for youth; what he’s working on now, and so much more. Find out all about Eddie @ eddibullen.com and his Thunder Dome Sounds studio @thunderdomesounds.ca

Coral Andrews radio broadcaster, journalist and author of the book “The Back Door” returns for another an unique chat with Dan Hare. Coral shares: more tales for her time at The Back Door Bar, Kitchener. Ontario’s underground subculture of the 1970s to the 1990s including how she got her DJ name of “Squeaky Subversive”; the variety of radio shows she hosts; her take on radio and music today and much more. Find out about all of Coral’s endeavours @coralandrews.ca

Lisa Hartt, singer songwriter, guitar player and former lead of The Lisa Hartt band joins host Dan Hare to in a fascinating chat about: her adventurous, and sometimes dangerous, career; the variety of musical influences; what it was like living in L.A. and why she came back to Canada, and so much more. Find out about Lisa and her music @lisaharttmusic.com

This is the 26th episode of our special series ‘Guest Glimpses’, short bits from longer conversations with previous guests. You’ll hear about 10 minutes of each guest’s 60+ minute chat with show host Dan Hare. Featured guests this week are:

SASS JORDAN, Juno award-winner, talks about her new live concert album; working with the Montreal band The Box; hiring the late Taylor Hawkins and recognizing his potential, and more.

BAZIL DONOVAN, bassist for Blue Rodeo reveals: his varied musical styles; why he got into country music; the best musical advice he was ever given; how he was hired by Blue Rodeo and more.

HARRY HESS, songwriter/producer who has earned 14 top 40 hits worldwide, and the founder and lead singer for the band Harem Scarem. Harry reveals to Dan: why the band is still together and his take on longevity in the music business, and more.

KIM STOCKWOOD, singer/songwriter talks to Dan about: her musical influences, why piano lessons were difficult for her; the synchronistic events that brought her to Toronto and launched her career, and more.

LISTEN to the full interview with each guest @linernotes.ca

This is the 32nd episode of our special series ‘Guest Glimpses’, short bits from longer conversations with previous guests. You’ll hear about 10 minutes of each guest’s 60+ minute chat with show host Dan Hare. Featured guests this week are:

KEITH SHARP RETURNS, founder of the iconic Canadian music magazine Music Express and author of the book “Music Express: The Rise, Fall & Resurrection of Canada's Music Magazine”. In this clip Keith recaps a bit of the history of Music Express; talks about the complexities of the late Myles Goodwyn; explains the biggest problem facing legacy rock bands and more.

RICK MASON, composer, musician and drummer of the iconic band The Mynah Birds. In this short clip Rick talks how being friends and bandmates with Rick James; why The Mynah Bird’s record was pulled from radio hours before it’s debut; how Neil Young came to be in the band, and more.

KIM BERLY RETURNS, Juno award-winner, SOCAN lifetime achievement recipient, drummer, singer and songwriter for the Canadian classic rock band The Stampeders. In a clip from this follow-up chat, Kim talks about: what he does to keep in shape; his bandmates; performing live these days, and more. NOTE: since this interview originally aired in September of 2023, bassist/singer/songwriter Ronnie King has passed away. He is missed.

FRANK MARINO, Canadian icon and guitar virtuoso, singer and leader of the band Mahogany Rush. In this short clip Frank shares: the one thing he did that other bands of the time weren’t doing; why planning doesn’t work; his philosophy for life and music, and more.

LISTEN to the full interview with each guest @linernotes.ca

Kevin Stuart Swain is a songwriter, engineer, producer, vocalist, guitarist, bassist who has played with Barney Bentall, Idle Eyes, Al Harlow, Prism, Lee Aaron, and many more. In this chat between two fellow musicians and friends, Kevin shares: his connection to the Beatles; why the bands he was in kept getting fired; his ongoing work with Thor and Al Harlow; his philosophy of life and how that influences his career; his style of bass playing, and much, much more. Find out about Kevin @kevinstuartswain.ca and check out his YouTube channel here @kevinstuartswain

This is the 33rd episode of our special series ‘Guest Glimpses’, short bits from longer conversations with previous guests. You’ll hear about 10 minutes of each guest’s 60+ minute chat with show host Dan Hare. Featured guests this week are:

CLIFF EDWARDS - musician, composer, former lead male vocalist of the Juno award-winning group The Bells. In this short clip Cliff reveals: why the Five Bells became just The Bells; how they went from a nightclub act to a soft pop group; the famous band his brother was a member of, and more.

CORAL ANDREWS RETURNS - radio broadcaster, journalist and author of the book “The Back Door”. In this short clip from her return visit Cora shares: more tales from her time at The Back Door Bar, Kitchener. Ontario’s underground subculture club of the 1970s to the 1990s; her book tour experience ,and more.

“WILD” BILL RILEY - music Impresario and manager of the ‘60s bands The Churls and The Fringe; In this fascinating short clip Bill talks about: how he ended up in the Yorkville Village area of Toronto in 1966; becoming good friends with David Clayton Thomas; hanging out with Ian and Sylvia, and more.

PETER FOLDY RETURNS - musician, songwriter, photographer, screenwriter, film director, producer, and much more whose first single ‘Bondi Junction’ hit #1 in Canada in 1973. In this clip from his return visit Peter talks about: knowing the BeeGees as their career was just starting; what happened after his musical career ended; how he got into film making, and more.

LISTEN to the full interview with each guest @linernotes.ca.

JAIMIE VERNON, musician, author, president of Bullseye Records, and creator of The Canadian Pop Music Encyclopedia series. In this jam-packed clip Jaimie talks about: being a punk musician in the early ‘80s and writing a book about that scene; writing several encyclopedias on the Canadian music scene; producing and distributing 6 CDs of independent Canadian music in the 1990’s, and more.

EDDIE BULLEN, pianist, composer, arranger, and producer and recipient of an abundance of awards (including a Juno) and recognition (including a Grammy nomination) for his outstanding talents. In this clip Eddie talks about his musical upbringing in Grenada, his quick entrance into the Canadian music scene, producing records and more.

DEAN HAJAS, musician, composer, engineer, producer, multi-instrmentalist, and much more. In this clip Dean and Dan discuss; the history of, and current uses of, AI (or machine learning) when it comes to making music and Dean’s lack of conformity in music making and in life.

SUE FOLEY, multi award-winning blues guitarist originally from Ottawa but has lived in Texas for most of her career. In this clip Sue reveals: her fascination with with playing in clubs; why it was important for her career to be in Austin and who brought her there; the unique challenges of being a female in a male dominated industry, and more.

LISTEN to the full interview with each guest @linernotes.ca

Danny Casavant, guitarist extraordinaire best known as a member of the bands Graham Shaw and the Sincere Serenaders and The Bobcats joins Dan Hare for a fascinating chat about: the ‘60s Winnipeg music scene; his multiple styles of guitar playing and the bands he’s been a part of; getting together with Graham Shaw; working with Bob White and how they eventually formed The Bobcats; teaching guitar and musical history, and so much more.  Check out Danny’s Spotify podcast Danny’s Musical Chats and follow him on Facebook @DanCasavant.

This is the 31st episode of our special series ‘Guest Glimpses’, short bits from longer conversations with previous guests. You’ll hear about 10 minutes of each guest’s 60+ minute chat with show host Dan Hare. Featured guests this week are:

THOR, Canadian and U.S. bodybuilding champion, songwriter, singer, musician. In this bit Thor shares with Dan how he combined bodybuilding, his love of superheroes and music to create his wild, glam rock persona and stage show; insights into his friendship and professional relationship with Frank Soda and more.

SCOTT MERRITT, singer, songwriter, composer, guitar player, and producer with many accomplishments. In this bit Scott talks about being a singer/songwriter at his core, being in the right place at the right time career, and more.

BRIAN MEISSNER, songwriter and lead singer/bassist for North America’s first Beatles cover band, Liverpool, as well as the late ’70s, early ‘80s band Ariel. In this bit Brian talks shares his early musical experiences in rural Saskatchewan; the tremendous success of Liverpool and their U.S. exposure, and more.

RON SAKAMOTO, multi-award-winning music promoter who has represented the biggest names in music including Roy Orbison, the Beach Boys, Kiss, Shania Twain, Garth Brooks, Bryan Adams and many, many others. He is the recipient of the Walt Grealis Special Achievement Juno and, after 17 years of consecutive wins for Canadian Country Music promoter of the year, now has the award named after him. In this bit Ron talks about getting his start in Alberta; why the Mayor of Medicine Hat was his mentor; how a a go-go dance contest kick started his first club, and more.

LISTEN to the full interview with each guest @linernotes.ca

Ron Sakamoto is a multi-award-winning music promoter who has represented the biggest names in music including Roy Orbison, the Beach Boys, Kiss, Shania Twain, Garth Brooks, Bryan Adams and many, many others. In 2023 he received the Walt Grealis Special Achievement award at the Junos and, after 17 years of consecutive wins for Canadian Country Music promoter of the year, has now had the award named after him. In this chat with Dan Hare, Ron talks about: his humble beginnings on a farm near Medicine Hat; opening his first teen dance club when he was just 19 years old; how and why he started his promotion company; the variety of other acts he promoted - including Disney on Ice and the Harlem Globe Trotters - before returning to strictly music promotions; the many ways he gives back to his community of Lethbridge and why it’s so important to him; Turning 81 and the goal he has for himself for when he turns 100, and so much more. Find out about Ron @sakamotoagency.com

This is the 27th episode of our special series ‘Guest Glimpses’, short bits from longer conversations with previous guests. You’ll hear about 10 minutes of each guest’s 60+ minute chat with show host Dan Hare. Featured guests this week are:

EDDIE SCHWARTZ, iconic songwriter, multi award-winner, and Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee who’s song ‘Hit Me With Your Best Shot’ was a hit for Pat Benatar. In this clip Eddie talks about: being in Greenwich Village during the early ‘60s and seeing a then unknown Bob Dylan perform on many occasions; his defining moment as a songwriter-writer; the real motive for touring with Charity Brown, and much more.

DAVE CHESNEY, former radio executive, record company promoter and music business veteran. In this clip Dave “The Ches” talks about: his radio pioneering father Joe Chesney; the importance of radio in the ‘60s; his rise in the radio business; the biggest difference between the country music stars and rock stars, and much more

JOHNNY SINCLAIR, bassist, songwriter, recording artist and a founding member of The Pursuit of Happiness. In this clip Johnny reveals: why he moved from Saskatoon to Toronto; how The Pursuit of Happiness was formed; the ‘cheap’ video production for ‘I’m An Adult Now’; loosing one American record deal but ultimately signing to work with Todd Rundgren, and much more.

GEOFF EYRE, drummer/singer best know for his time with The Hometown Band. In this clip Geoff shares: details on his first band and how they opened for The Who; how he ended up in Vancouver; his work with Valdy and the rise of The Hometown Band, and much more.

LISTEN to the full interview with each guest @linernotes.ca

This is the 34th episode of our special series ‘Guest Glimpses’, short bits from longer conversations with previous guests. You’ll hear about 10 minutes of each guest’s 60+ minute chat with show host Dan Hare. Featured guests this week are:

ROBERT LAWSON RETURNS - expert on The Guess Who and author of ‘Wheatfield Empire’ the definitive comprehensive history on The Guess Who. In this short clip from his return visit, Robert debates with Dan some points of the lawsuit launched by Randy Bachman and Burton Cummings against the usage of The Guess Who name and likeness.

EDMUND PILLING - singer, songwriter, award-winning musician, composer founding member and lead singer of the band Fludd. In this short clip Edmund talks about playing music in England in the 1960s; hanging out with Jon and Robert Plant and joining Cat Steven’s band at the age of 16.

DAN HARE RETURNS - acclaimed entertainer and musician, moves from hosting this podcast to being a guest. In a short clip from his chat with Dusty Discs Radio’s Program Director Lori Dean, Dan shares why he recorded his is new, retro-rock album ‘I Love This Life’at this stage in his career; the trill of working with working with legendary recording engineer/producer Mike Fraser, and more.

JIMI (B) BERTUCCI - singer/songwriter, composer, musician, and founding member, bassist and songwriter for the band Abraham’s Children. In this short clip Jimi reveals his real name and why he goes by Jimi; the impact seeing the Beatles had on his musical career, and a bit about the band’s success.

LISTEN to the full interview with each guest @linernotes.ca

from longer conversations with previous guests. You’ll hear about 10 minutes of each guest’s 60+ minute chat with show host Dan Hare. Featured guests this week are:

STU JEFFRIES - Radio and TV broadcaster best known as the host of CBC TV’s Good Rockin’ Tonight. In this short bit Stu tells host Dan Hare

how he got the host job at Good Rockin’ Tonight, why he was “hated” for it, and how the show evolved.

MIKE KOZAK & MARCO BRADAC - Teaze band members Mike (drummer) and Marco (guitarist). In this clip which highlights the story of the ‘exploding pumpkins’, meeting Donald K Donald and The Rolling Stones, and becoming superstars in Japan then and Sweden now.

CONNIE KALDOR - multi Juno award-winner, singer/songwriter and Order of Canada recipient. This short bit features Connie revealing how her musical theatre training helps her career, the challenge of being a woman and a solo artist, and what being from the prairies taught her about forging her own path.

GARY FJELLGAARD - Juno winning and multi award-winning singer/songwriter, guitar player, and Canadian Country Music Hall of Fame inductee. In this clip Gary talks about how being a cowboy and lumberjack figure into his songs, working with Valdy and the expenses involved in touring with a band.

LISTEN to the full interview with each guest @ linernotes.ca.

This is the 29 th episode of our special series ‘Guest Glimpses’, short bits from longer conversations with previous guests. You’ll hear about 10 minutes of each guest’s 60+ minute chat with show host Dan Hare. Featured guests this week are:

SYLVIA TYSON, singer, songwriter, Order of Canada recipient, Songwriter Hall of Fame inductee and seven time Juno nominee and legend in the Canadian music scene. In this clip Sylvia talks about: the huge success of her first song ‘You Were On My Mind’; her personal and professional relationship with Ian, and much more.

ERROL STARR FRANCIS, Juno award-winning singer/songwriter, sound engineer, producer, SOCAN songwriter of the year recipient, multi award-winner for TV and radio production and best know for his 1989 hit song ‘Angel’. In this clip Errol shares: why he dropped the second “l” in Errol; what seeing KISS live brought to his performance and why that disqualified his band from a Battle of the Bands competition, and more.

LIONA BOYD, “The First Lady of The Guitar”, five time Juno Award winner, recipient of several Lifetime Achievement awards and an Officer of the Order of Canada. She has recorded 29 albums, many of which are Gold and Platinum. In this clip from a fascinating and jam-packed interview Liona reveals: how music has taken her around the world multiple times; the member of the Royal Family who was her pen pal; why dating Pierre Trudeau opened the door for her to meet world leaders; her friendship with Olivia Newton John and much more:

EDDIE SCHWARTZ, iconic songwriter, multi award-winner, and Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee who, in addition to his own career, has had his songs recorded by Rod Stewart, Carly Simon, Paul Carrack (‘Don’t Shed A Tear’) and Pat Benatar (‘Hit Me With Your Best Shot’). In this clip from a whirlwind interview Eddie reveals: the scenes in NY and Toronto that inspired him and his songwriting; how songwriting helps him deal with depression; why writing ‘Hit Me Hit Me With Your Best Shot’ at a low point turned everything around, and more.

LISTEN to the full interview with each guest @linernotes.ca

Jimi B (Bertucci) is a singer/songwriter, composer, musician, and founding member, bassist and songwriter for the band Abraham’s Children. In this chat with Dan Hare Jimi shares: how the band got its name; what people may not realize about their success; his solo career and time as a staff writer with A&M records; his experience of the bands 2004  reunion, and much more. Find out about Jimi and his latest work @jimib.com and more on Abraham's Children @thechildrenrock.com

This is the 25th episode of our special series ‘Guest Glimpses’, short bits from longer conversations with previous guests. You’ll hear about 10 minutes of each guest’s 60+ minute chat with show host Dan Hare. Featured guests this week are:

TY REVEEN - son of the famous mentalists/hypnotist Reveen and creator of iconic rock stage show visual effects for some of the biggest stars including Paul McCartney, Elton John and many others. In this short clip Ty shares how he was hired by Billy Gibbons of ZZ Top and what product he invented for their stage show that has since became one of the most popular visual effects in rock and roll.

BRAD ROBERTS - singer/songwriter and guitarist for the iconic Crash Test Dummies shares with Dan how his degrees in Literature and Philosophy influence his songwriting, some insights into the bands most famous hits such as Superman’s Song and how the Canadian music industry turned its back on them.

B. J. COOK - female vocalist for the ‘70s band Skylark which included keyboardist and her ex-husband David Foster. In this clip she talks about why she is called B.J., how she got together with David Foster and her “weird” connection to Ronnie Hawkins.

ROSS RHEAUME (Roman) & DAVID SMITH (Grey) - founders of the 1980s progressive, new wave band Roman Grey. Ross and David share with Dan how they got together right after high school, some of the various musical influences heard in Roman Grey and why they are hard to categorize.

LISTEN to the full interview with each guest @ linernotes.ca.

Rick Mason, composer, musician and drummer of the iconic band The Mynah Birds. In this chat with Dan Hare, Rick reveals: how Rick James recruited him into The Mynah Birds; the interchange of musicians between the bands of the day including Lighthouse, Steppenwolf and The Mynah Birds; his close relationship with Rick James: why the band’s record was pulled from radio hours before it’s debut; tales of working with Neil Young, and much more.

This week Dan chats with Mike ‘Mudfoot’ McDonald, blues artist, songwriter, producer, Tribute artist and in-house music director at legendary Grossman’s Tavern. Mike shares highlights of his stellar music career including: jamming with the likes of Jeff Healey and Alannah Myles; his musical influences; stories of the Yonge Street Music scene, Grossman’s Tavern and touring in Kandahar; the differences in styles of blues music and much more. Find out more about Mike on Facebook @MikeMudfootMcDonald

In this chat with Dan Hare, Cliff reveals: how the Five Bells got started and why the eventually became The Bells; who wrote their Juno award-winning hit Stay Awhile; their US exposure performing in well known venues, state fairs and on the biggest US TV show of the day such as The Tonight Show; why he left The Bells; details of his solo career; what he’s doing now and much more. Find out about Cliff on Facebook @CliffEdwardsMusic, and check out where to watch the documentary "Stay Awhile" @jessicaedwards.ca

Scott Merritt is a singer, songwriter, composer, guitar player, and producer with many accomplishments who has worked throughout North America since 1980. In this chat with Dan Hare, Scott talks about: songwriting; self producing his first album; working with a record label and when, and why, all that changed; making recordings for himself and others; the birth of Cottage Studios; technology and music and much more. Find out more about Scott, including his long and impressive list of credits, @scottmerritt.com

Keith Sharp is the founder of the iconic Canadian music magazine Music Express and author of the book “Music Express: The Rise, Fall & Resurrection of Canada's Music Magazine”. In this return chat with Dan Hare Keith talks about: his connections to the late Myles Goodwin and Gordon Lightfoot; the challenges for ‘retro’ bands in today’s musical landscape; the state of radio, music production, new music, and much more. Find out about Keith and Music Express @themusicexpress.ca

This is the 22nd episode of our special series ‘Guest Glimpses’, short bits from longer conversations with previous guests. You’ll hear about 10 minutes of each guest’s 60+ minute chat with show host Dan Hare. Featured guests this week are:

CATHY YOUNG - singer/songwriter, guitar player, producer, and voice over artist who won the 1974 Juno award for Best New Artist. In this bit Cathy shares: the watershed moment that started her career; how her face ended up on a 22 store mural: becoming part of the Yorkville music scene of the 1960s, and much more.

JOHN EINARSON - award-winning author, music historian and recipient of the Association for Recorded Sound Collections Award for Excellence who has researched and written a total of 19 music biographies and many articles about the Canadian music scene. In this short clip John talks about: becoming a music historian; his collaborations on the autobiographies of Randy Bachman, John Kay of Steppenwolf, and Ian Tyson; why Burton Cummings threatened to sue him, and more.

JIM VALLANCE - four time Juno award-winner for songwriter of the year, and one of Canada’s pre-eminent songwriters and the creative force behind top tracks for artists like Bryan Adams , Aerosmith, Glass Tiger, and Prism. In this clip from his chat with Dan Hare, Jim talks about: why it’s great to be ‘in the background’; meeting Bryan Adams and why this collaboration works; co-writing Bryan’s hit song ‘Summer of ’69’, and more.

JANE SIBERRY - incomparable, multi-fasciated person and performer known for such hits as ‘Mimi On The Beach’ and dueting with k. d. Lang on the song ‘Calling All Angels’. In this clip Jane shares: why studying science led her to meditation; the importance of the energetic connection between performer and artist; why she produces her own music, and more.

LISTEN to the full interview with each guest @ linernotes.ca.

Sue Foley, multi award-winning blues guitarist joins host Dan Hare to chat about: how she discovered the blue; her guitar style, technique and ongoing development; being female in the male dominated world of guitar players and her multi-level project on guitar women; what she’s doing now and much more. Find out all about Sue @suefoley.com

Dean Hajas is a musician, composer, engineer, producer, multi-instrmentalist, and much more. In this jam-packed chat with Dan Hare, Dean shares tales from his diverse experiences in creating music, producing and engineering and much more. He also talks about forging his own path and provides an in-depth look into the legalities of the music biz and how it has hurt artists, and much, more more. Find out about Dean @istreamguru.com, on Spotify @DeanHajas and on YouTube HERE.

Gary Kendall, bassist, vocalist, songwriter and band leader best known as bassist for the Downchild Blues Band. In this in depth chat with Dan Hare Gary talks about: his wide range of musical influences and his love for the blues; being in Downchild Blues Band, insights into it’s main members, and how he feels now that the band is calling it quits after over 50 years; his connections to Paul Shaffer and Dan Aykroyd; what he’s doing now, and much more. Find out about Gary and his projects at both garykendall.com and maplebluesband.com.  And find out more about The Downchild Blues Band, including their upcoming farewell shows @downchild.com

Terry Crawford and Rick Johnson are husband and wife bandmates who began performing together in 1971 in Winnipeg and have been doing so ever since. They formed The Terry Crawford band and Terry was nominated for a Juno in 1981 for Most Promising Female Vocalist. In this engaging chase with host Dan Hare, Terry and Rick chat about their versatile career including: touring as a band, duo and children’s entertainers; opening for The Beach Boys in the 1980s; the riggers and joys of touring; what they are doing now, and much more. Find out about Terry and Rick @terrycrawfordband.com

David Rashed is one of the original members of the Haywire as well as their keyboardist and a songwriter. In this chat with Dan Hare David talks about: the unique criteria they looked for in band members when forming Haywire in PEI back in 1981; winning tour battle of the band contests; touring in Japan and recording in Norway; not landing Bruce Allen as their manager; why the band broke up and how they reunited and still play together; the unreleased Haywire recording he hopes will see the light, and much more. Find out about David and Haywire @ haywireband.ca

Catherine McKinnon, singer and actress best known for her time on Singalong Jubilee and for popularizing the iconic Canadian classic song ‘Farewell To Nova Scotia’ is Dan Hare’s guest. In this chat 80 year old Catherine reveals career highlights including: why she almost didn't get to sing 'Farewell To Nova Scotia'; becoming friends, and working with, well known entertainers such as Gordon Lightfoot, Anne Murray, Ian and Sylvia, and Bob Newhart; her 17 year stint as the spokesperson for MS; working with The Famous People Players, and much more. Find out all about The Famous People Players @famouspeopleplayers.com

This is the 35th episode of our special series ‘Guest Glimpses’, short bits from longer conversations with previous guests. You’ll hear about 10 minutes of each guest’s 60+ minute chat with show host Dan Hare. Featured guests this week are:

KEVIN SWAIN - songwriter, engineer, producer, vocalist, guitarist, and bassist who has played with Barney Bentall, Idle Eyes, Prism, Lee Aaron, and many others. In this short bit Kevin shares: why and how he got into music; starting his professional career at age 16 with Barney Bentall, why he left that band and more.

MARK DUNN - musician, teacher, and author of the book ‘You Get Bigger As You Go’, a beginners guide to Bruce Cockburn’s music. In this short bit Mark talks about: his own career; why he wrote this book; Bruce’s musical diversity and more.

RONNIE ROBSON - iconic bassist, multi-instrumentalist, producer and mixing/mastering engineer who has worked with, or recorded bass tracks for, the greatest acts in music such as Ozzy Osbourne, Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, Jethro Tull and many, many others. In this short bit Ronnie talks about: his multi-faceted and his busy life; connecting with famous musicians and more.

LISA HARTT - singer songwriter, guitar player and former lead of The Lisa Hartt band. In this bit Lisa shares: her musical adventures in Europe in the ‘60s that included escaping dangerous situations, being in jail, and running for her life in Greece; working with the Vanelli family (including Gino) once she returned to Canada, and more.

LISTEN to the full interview with each guest @linernotes.ca

Betty Anne Keller is a retired music promoter, Manager of Arts Culture Festivals and Events for the City of Waterloo, and producer of the acclaimed documentary ’Rock This Town’ which captures how vibrant the Kitchener/Waterloo area was musically back in the ‘60s,‘70s and beyond. In this fascinating chat with Dan Hare, Betty Anne talks about: brining in musicians to the Kitchener/Waterloo region right as they were breaking or about to break, acts such as Chicago, Supertramp, Kiss, Led Zeppelin, The Guess Who, Neil Young, Rush and many, many others; why she wanted to create ‘Rock The Town’ and how other Canadian mid-sized communities will relate to the story, and much more. For more on Betty Anne and to find out how to watch ‘Rock This Town’, email her @bakeller11@gmail.com

Edmund Pilling , singer, songwriter, award winning musician, composer and the founding member and lead singer of the band Fludd is Dan Hare’s guest. In this chat Edmund talks about: being a part of Cat Stevens' band and touring in Europe; why he went to Birmingham, England as a teenager; the origins of Fludd and the members including Greg (Goddo) Godovitz; the loss of his brother Brian; recording records; his upcoming album and more.

This week Dan chats with Derry Grehan, songwriter and guitarist of the band Honeymoon Suite. Derry shares much from his long career including: his philosophy on songwriting and “serving the song; the longevity of Honeymoon Suite and the band’s signature sound; recording albums; opening for bands such as ZZ Top, Jethro Tull, Heart and others; why he isn’t bitter about some bad management and deals; Honeymoon Suite’s upcoming summer tour, and much more. Find out about Derry on Facebook @DerryGerhan

Frank Marino, Canadian icon and guitar virtuoso, singer and leader of the band Mahogany Rush. In this fascinating for musicians and fans alike, Frank talks about: his feelings on being compared to Jimi Hendrix; opening for Aerosmith and Ted Nugent; guitar playing; building pedals and amps; and so much more. Find out about Mahogany Rush @ mahoganyrush.com, Live at The Agora Theatre @mahoganyrush.net/dvd, and more about Frank's guitar gear @frankmarinoaudio.com

Mark Dunn, musician, teacher, and author of ‘You Get Bigger As You Go’, what he calls a beginners guide to Bruce Cockburn’s music. Host Dan Hare talks with Mark about Bruce Cockburn’s music, guitar playing, guitars, songwriting and much more from the book including why it took Mark 7 years to write. To get your copy of the book visit @YouGetBiggerAsYouGo and find out more about Mark @mddunn.com

‘Wild’ Bill Riley, music Impresario, manager of the ‘60s bands The Churls and The Fringe is Dan’s guest. In this fascinating chat Bill shares: what life was like in the Yorkville Village in the 1960s and hanging out with Gordon Lightfoot, Ian and Sylvia and others; how he became the band manager of The Churls and why that ended; the truth about The Churls songs we hear on the radio; how he got into radio and some of the famous people he interviewed such as James Brown; more about his current station Oldies108, and much more. Check out Bill and the music @oldies108.ca

This is the 28th episode of our special series ‘Guest Glimpses’, short bits from longer conversations with previous guests. You’ll hear about 10 minutes of each guest’s 60+ minute chat with show host Dan Hare. Featured guests this week are:

FRANK MILLS, Canadian music icon, three time Juno award-winner, two time SOCAN classic award-recipient, keyboardist, composer & arranger of 20 gold/platinum albums, producer, writer, and noted TV host/performer. It this bit Frank talks about: joining The Bells and playing piano on their Juno award-winning hit Stay Awhile; why his solo hit Love Me Love Me Love was actually a fluke; other jobs he had to make ends meet and the piano playing gig that turned things around, and more.

DAVID RASHED, original members of Haywire and the bands keyboardist and a songwriter. In this short clip David shares: winning two battle of the bands contests; why Haywire took their craft seriously; the early days of the band, and more.

EARL JOHNSON, co-founder, exceptional guitar player and songwriter for Moxy and founder of the band TRIBZ. Earl shares stories about: the influence of Led Zeppelin on his career; touring the states with King Biscuit Boy; why he was kicked out of the recording studio session for Moxy’s first album, and more.

RAY(Man) RAMSAY, retired promo man for Quality Records, RCA and other top record companies. Ray shares a bit about: how he went from commercial fisherman to being the top in the business; why PR is all about relationship builiding; designing posters for The Cowsills and Creedence Clearwater Revival; writing his own radio and TV spots, and more.

LISTEN to the full interview with each guest @linernotes.ca

(Jon Mikl) THOR is a former Canadian and U.S. bodybuilding champion, and a songwriter, singer, and musician. In this fascinating chat with Dan Hare, Thor (as he is known professionally) shares much about his varied career including: how he combined bodybuilding, his love of superheroes and music to create his wild, glam rock persona and stage show; insights into his friendship and professional relationship with Frank Soda; succeeding in spite of litigation within his management and record label; why he took a decade long break from performing and what he did during that time; his new music and upcoming shows, and much more. Find out about Thor and the show dates @thorcentral.net

Eddie Schwartz, is an iconic songwriter, multi award-winner, and Canadian Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee who, in addition to his own career, has had songs recorded by Rod Stewart, Joe Cocker, Carly Simon, Rita Coolidge, and some big hits for Paul Carrack (Don’t Shed A Tear) and Pat Benatar (Hit Me With Your Best Shot). In this fascinating and jam-packed chat Eddie: shares insights into his songwriting success; reveals his varied musical influences; explains why Paul Carrack swore at him; details on his ongoing advocacy for songwriters; the future of music and so much more.

Liona Boyd, “The First Lady of The Guitar”, is a five time Juno Award winner, recipient of several Lifetime Achievement awards and an Officer of the Order of Canada. She has recorded 29 albums, many of which are Gold and Platinum, and has performed around world with her solo classical guitar and in orchestral concerts. In this raw and revealing chat with Dan Hare, Liona talks about: the love of classical guitar and single-minded focus on her career; her famous friends including Gordon Lightfoot and Olivia Newton John; the member of the Royal Family who was her “pen pal”; surviving fires, earthquakes, and unwanted sexual advances from the likes of Henry Kissinger; jet setting around the world on the concord; TV appearances and specials: writing 2 autobiographies and a children’s book; her new album Once Upon A Time released in Dolby Atmos immersive audio, and much MUCH more. Find out all about Liona’s amazing life and career @ lionaboyd.com 

Jaimie Vernon - musician, author, president of Bullseye Records, and creator of The Canadian Pop Music Encyclopedia series. In this jam-packed chat with Dan Hare Jaimie delves into Canada’s music scene and talks about: the his rollercoaster ride in many areas of music; the journey of Bullseye Records; his life as a musician then and now; his unique ways of staying in the music industry and much more. Find out about Jaime @bullseyecanada.bandcamp.com and check out The Canadian Pop Music Encyclopedias @https://canpopencyclopedia.home.blog/

Les Stroud is a world famous adventurer, survival expert, musician, expert harmonica player, singer/songwriter, and perhaps best known as the creator, writer, producer, director, cameraman and host of the television series Survivorman. In this engaging, in depth and lively chat with Dan Hare, Les talks about: his vast musical influences; meeting and performing with Slash, Bruce Cockburn The Northern Pikes and others; his resilience and outlooks on life; his decision to bring nature into his music; the realness of Survivorman the series and much, much more. Find out about Les’s music @lesstroudmusic.com and on his YouTube channel @LesStroudMusic

Jeff “Jonesy” Jones - bassist extraordinaire, best known for his time with the bands Ocean, Red Rider and The Carpet Frogs chats with Dan Hare about his many projects and different career experiences including: his musical influences; joining the band Ocean when he was just 16 years old; his connections to Alex Lifeson and Lawrence Gowan; what he’s learned from Tom Cochrane over the years; his band The Carpet Frogs on their own and backing up Burton Cummings; how a visit to a NATO naval base inspired his new song Velvet Sky, and much, much more. Find out about Jeff @jeff-jones.com and @thecarpetfrogs.com

Cherrill Rae Yates is a singer and recording artist best known as one half of The Raes singing duo which also featured her then husband, the late Robbie Rae. In this very raw and honest chat with host Dan Hare Cherrill reveals: her complicated personal and professional relationship with the narcissistic Robbie; details of the couples wildly successful TV show ‘The Raes’ and why it ended after 2 seasons; the challenges of touring; why her and Robbie split up; her upcoming movie debut and much, much more. Check out Cherrill’s YouTube channe @CMCYATES

Ken Tobias was a well-known singer/songwriter, guitarist, producer and painter who has written hit songs recorded by others (Stay Awhile by The Bells) and himself, best known for his '70s radio hits I Just Want To Make Music, Dream #2, Fly Me High, Every Bit of Love and New York City.  In this interview from 2021, Ken chats with Dan Hare about everything from: his stints on Music Hop and Singalong Jubilee; being "discovered", and produced, by Bill Medley of The Righteous Brothers; turning down Stevie Wonder; the music biz in L.A. and England; partying with Gordon Lightfoot, Bob Dylan and others; producing demos for Corey Hart; why he returned to New Brunswick; his career as a painter and so much more.