Rock for Dimes Montreal; Raising Eyebrows and Money for Great Causes!

Rock for Dimes Montreal is entering it’s eight year. By the amount of money raised so far – it would appear to be in it’s 20th incarnation. A lot of money raised in a short time means two things; Montrealers are generous and Montrealers love to Rock n Roll! Rock for Dimes is a charity evening which places ‘cover’ bands in direct competition with one … Continue reading Rock for Dimes Montreal; Raising Eyebrows and Money for Great Causes!

Ask Dave the Bartender; Episode Eight

He knows where you’ve been sleeping, he knows who you’ve been sleeping with … He knows if you are naughty. He knows if you are nice. There is not much he does not know, hear or see. Then – he goes to work behind the bar … He is … Dave the Bartender … Got a Question for Dave the Bartender? Rickkeene2@gmail.com     Continue reading Ask Dave the Bartender; Episode Eight

This Week on Rick Keene Music Scene …

Just like a household with nineteen children … There is a lot going on Rick Keene Music Scene. Kick off your shoes, disconnect the telephone wire and discover a whole bunch of stuff including a couple of new songs and some words from Jerry Mercer of April Wine fame. Join Sean Mckeogh and myself live on k103.7fm this Thursday @ 6:15pm We welcome Gary Moffet … Continue reading This Week on Rick Keene Music Scene …

Edwin Brownell – ‘Classical’ Rock; Part Three

In the conclusion (for now) of my talk with Edwin – the pianist discusses his upcoming album launch at Place des Arts as well as working with Jerry Mercer of April Wine fame. His new album is titled; Forever Laughter. A concept not too far removed from Edwin’s personality. Take it away Mr. Brownell …   Visit Edwin Here Here Too!       Continue reading Edwin Brownell – ‘Classical’ Rock; Part Three

Jerry Mercer- AsThe Years Go By; Part Six

In this final segment of my interview with Mr. Mercer – the drummer discusses working with Trevor Payne in this summer’s upcoming version of Porgy and Bess. He also speaks of his legacy, his integrity and what he has learned over the years about life. Oh ya – he will also tell you his favorite April Wine songs! Thanks to Jerry for taking the time … Continue reading Jerry Mercer- AsThe Years Go By; Part Six

Jerry Mercer – As The Years Go By; Part Five

In this segment of my interview with Jerry Mercer – the drummer discusses opening up for the Rolling Stones, hearing Janis Joplin sing from the heart and thoughts on April Wine’s late great bass player; Jimmy Clench. He also talks about the downside of being a performer and the loneliness that sometimes comes with it … Please enjoy this latest installment. Very insightful and poignant … Continue reading Jerry Mercer – As The Years Go By; Part Five

Jerry Mercer – As The Years Go By; Part Four

In this ongoing saga which is known as the Jerry Mercer story – the drummer discusses the differences between the days of yesteryear and today when it comes to ‘the life of a musician’ in Montreal. He also talks about some of his memorable moments including opening up for Steppenwolf at the Montreal Forum … Please enjoy the interview and come back for more. Thank … Continue reading Jerry Mercer – As The Years Go By; Part Four

Jerry Mercer- As The Years Go By; Part Two.

As my interview with Jerry Mercer goes on – the legendary drummer discusses the rudiments of drumming, his battle with cancer and how it brought him together with an old friend. His musical education continues as he educates us … Please stay tuned as this interview will be in five parts …. What I’d say ….?   Continue reading Jerry Mercer- As The Years Go By; Part Two.

Jerry Mercer – As the Years Go By; Part One

Jerry Mercer heard Ray Charles’ song ‘What I’d Say’ on the radio. His life was never the same … Starting with Trevor Payne and the Triangle, Mashmakhan and eventually April Wine – Mercer’s career has taken him on trips with Janis Joplin, Roy Buchanan, The Band and many, many others … At the young age of seventy-four, four years following his ‘retirement’ – Jerry continues … Continue reading Jerry Mercer – As the Years Go By; Part One

A Triple Threat to End Suffering in the Phillipines

A whole bunch of Blues in a whole bunch of bars … That is the setting this Sunday, December 8th. Five bucks will get you in to hear the likes of Jerry Mercer of April Wine fame along with Breen Leboeuf- formerly of Offenbach. What a deal! Especially considering the money spent goes to help the poor unfortunate folks in the Phillipines … Listen below … Continue reading A Triple Threat to End Suffering in the Phillipines

Pssst! April Wine Rocks! (Just Between You and Me)

The year was 1981 … Hockey’s New York Islanders won their second of what would become four Stanley Cups. Actress Natalie Wood died in what was an ‘apparent’ and questionable drowning. The film ‘Cannonball Run‘ – starring Burt Reynolds, was enticing people everywhere to race the world disregarding rules and general etiquette. On the music front – MTV began its sucessful run giving music another … Continue reading Pssst! April Wine Rocks! (Just Between You and Me)