The 17th Bruce Telecom Lighthouse Blues Festival is a carefully curated weekend where big‑name blues headliners share the bill with rising roots‑soul stars, family‑friendly acts, and hometown favorites.
Set against the backdrop of Kincardine Harbour and the town’s iconic lighthouse, the 2026 edition occurs on the weekend of July 9-12 and brings together a diverse mix of genres, from fiery blues‑rock and soul‑soaked vocals to gospel‑tinged jams and laid‑back roots storytelling. Whether you’re planning your sets in advance, scouting the free Saturday street festival stages, or deciding which Sunday “Music in the Park” act to linger for, this guide breaks down the full lineup and shows how each artist fits into the festival’s evolving blues‑centric identity.
Crystal Shawanda: Juno-Winning Blues Powerhouse from Manitoulin Island
Crystal Shawanda is a Juno Award–winning singer-songwriter from the Wikwemikong First Nation on Manitoulin Island, Ontario, whose career bridges country roots and powerful contemporary blues. Raised in a musical family, she began performing at age six and was playing paid gigs by ten, developing a relentless work ethic that led her to Nashville at sixteen. After years of grinding club shows, she signed with RCA Records and released three country albums between 2008 and 2014. Drawn back to her early love of blues, Shawanda shifted genres with her acclaimed 2014 release The Whole World’s Got the Blues. She has since established herself as a leading voice in modern blues with albums including Fish Out of the Water, Voodoo Woman, Church House Blues, Midnight Blues, and her 2025 chart-topper Sing Pretty Blues, earning multiple award nominations and critical recognition.
Ronnie Douglas Band: Ojibway Roots Blues with Timeless Grit
Ronnie Douglas Band is led by Ojibway vocalist and guitarist Ronnie Douglas of the Chippewas of Rama First Nation, delivering a traditional roots blues sound shaped by decades of live performance. Active across Southern Ontario since the early 1990s, Douglas built his reputation in clubs and on festival stages, drawing strong influence from blues legend Howlin’ Wolf. Formed in the mid-1990s, the band has become a steady presence on the Canadian blues circuit, with notable appearances at the Great Canadian Blues Festival, Mariposa Folk Festival, Southside Shuffle, and the Orillia Spring Blues Festival. Their authentic, no-frills approach to blues emphasizes powerful vocals, expressive guitar work, and deep respect for the genre’s origins, while also connecting with contemporary audiences. The Ronnie Douglas Band continues to represent a vital link between classic blues traditions and Canada’s modern festival scene.
Bruce County Allstars: A Showcase of Local Blues Talent
Bruce County Allstars brings together six standout musicians from across the region for a dynamic, one-of-a-kind blues collaboration. Featuring Mike Macdonald, Tyler Pantlin, Greg Ritchie, and Rodney Jewell, alongside a rhythm section of Adrian Mitchell and Mike Campbell, this collective highlights the depth of talent rooted in Bruce County’s blues scene. Members represent some of the area’s most popular acts, including Shakey Trill – finalists at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis – and Greg Ritchie’s trio, who reached the competition’s semi-finals. Rodney Jewell, a newer addition to the local scene, has quickly built a strong following with his own band. This all-star performance offers audiences a rare chance to experience these accomplished musicians sharing one stage, blending their styles into a powerful and celebratory set of modern and traditional blues.
Spencer Mackenzie: Electrifying Blues-Rock Virtuoso
Spencer Mackenzie is a Juno-nominated blues-rock artist from Fort Erie, Ontario, known for his fluid phrasing, resonant tone, and commanding stage presence. A Maple Blues Award winner, he has spent nearly a decade writing and performing music rooted in the raw emotion and authenticity of traditional blues, while bringing a modern edge to the genre. Mackenzie’s expressive guitar work and natural feel for the music have earned him recognition from blues fans worldwide, often drawing comparisons to legends far beyond his Southern Ontario roots. Performing with intensity and precision, he delivers high-energy shows that showcase both technical skill and emotional depth. Touring in support of his fourth album, Empty Chairs, Mackenzie continues to build momentum as one of Canada’s most exciting blues talents, leaving a lasting impression with every performance.
Albert Cummings: Modern Blues Guitar Master with Chart-Topping Power
Albert Cummings is an American blues guitarist, singer, and songwriter from Williamstown, Massachusetts, renowned for his commanding guitar work and soulful vocals. Since emerging in the early 2000s, he has built a reputation for electrifying live performances and exceptional technical skill. His early releases, including Feel So Good (2004), No Regrets (2006), and Someone Like You (2011), established him as a formidable presence in contemporary blues. In recent years, Cummings has reached new heights with TEN (2019) and Strong (2022), the latter earning the number one spot on the Billboard Blues Chart. Blending heartfelt songwriting with fiery, precision-driven guitar playing, he continues to evolve while staying rooted in the traditions of the genre. Cummings remains a vital force in modern blues, captivating audiences worldwide with his passion, intensity, and dedication to the craft.
Davy Knowles: Globally Acclaimed Blues-Rock Virtuoso
Davy Knowles is a British-born guitarist, singer, and songwriter whose dynamic blend of blues and rock has earned him international acclaim. Originally emerging from the Isle of Man with his band Back Door Slam, he gained widespread attention with the release of their debut album Roll Away (2007). Launching a solo career in 2009, Knowles released Coming Up for Air, produced by Peter Frampton, and quickly established himself as a formidable solo artist. His career includes multiple Top 5 Billboard Blues charting albums, major television appearances, and tours alongside legendary acts such as Jeff Beck, The Who, Joe Bonamassa, and Lynyrd Skynyrd. Whether performing solo acoustic sets or fronting a full band with his signature Telecaster in hand, Knowles delivers powerful, emotionally resonant performances. Widely praised by peers and critics alike, he remains one of the most versatile and compelling voices in modern blues and blues-rock.
Conor Gains Band: Road-Tested Blues with Americana Soul
Conor Gains Band delivers a compelling blend of Americana, alt-rock, and blues, driven by storytelling and a deep connection to life on the road. Born in Cambridge and based in Waterloo, Gains built his career performing in small-town bars across Ontario, steadily refining his sound and stage presence. His “song first” approach highlights thoughtful songwriting and emotional authenticity, allowing his music to resonate equally in intimate venues and on festival stages. An award-winning songwriter and recipient of the Cobalt Prize for Contemporary Blues Composition, Gains has earned recognition for his creativity and originality. Backed by a tight, road-tested band, his live performances showcase both musical versatility and the presence of a seasoned storyteller. The Conor Gains Band continues to stand out as a fresh and genuine voice in Canada’s modern blues and roots music scene.
Marcus Trummer: Old-Soul Blues with a Modern Edge
Marcus Trummer is a Calgary-born artist whose distinctive sound blends blues, R&B, soul, and roots rock with a maturity far beyond his years. Often described as a young talent with an old soul, he has quickly gained recognition for his expressive guitar work and deeply emotive vocals. Trummer earned a nomination for New Artist of the Year at the 2022 Maple Blues Awards, won the 2023 Telluride Blues Challenge, and made his U.S. debut at the Telluride Blues & Brews Festival in 2024. He was also nominated for Blues Artist of the Year at the 2025 Western Canadian Music Awards. His debut album, From the Start, draws on the timeless influence of 1960s and 70s soul, pairing heartfelt songwriting with inspiration from legends like Bill Withers, Marvin Gaye, B.B. King, and Jimi Hendrix, resulting in a sound that feels both classic and contemporary.
Ray Fuller and the Bluesrockers: High-Energy Slide Guitar Blues Veterans
Ray Fuller and the Bluesrockers deliver electrifying “rockin’ slide guitar blues,” backed by decades of experience and a reputation for high-energy performances. Based in Columbus, Ohio, Fuller has headlined major festivals and venues across the United States, Canada, Europe, and South Africa, captivating audiences with his dynamic stage presence and powerful musicianship. Over a career spanning more than 50 years, he has shared the stage with blues legends including Muddy Waters, John Lee Hooker, Albert Collins, Stevie Ray Vaughan, Buddy Guy, and The Fabulous Thunderbirds. Known for his fiery slide guitar work and commanding vocals, Fuller leads a tight, groove-driven band that consistently delivers engaging, crowd-pleasing shows. With relentless touring and enduring passion, Ray Fuller and the Bluesrockers remain a staple of the international blues scene.
Bywater Call: Soulful Seven-Piece Southern Blues
Bywater Call is a Toronto-based seven-piece band known for their dynamic fusion of Southern soul, blues, and roots rock, delivered through deeply emotional and high-energy live performances. Fronted by the commanding vocals of Meagan Parnell, the group creates a rich, immersive sound driven by tight musicianship and expressive interplay among its members. Their music explores the full spectrum of human experience, from intimate, introspective ballads to electrifying, full-throttle anthems. Drawing inspiration from artists such as The Band, Tedeschi Trucks Band, Otis Redding, and Sly and the Family Stone, Bywater Call blends classic influences with a modern edge. The band has toured extensively across Canada, the United States, and Europe, earning a 2024 UK Blues Award nomination for International Blues Artist of the Year. With a growing international reputation, Bywater Call continues to captivate audiences with their powerful and soulful performances.
Samantha Martin and Delta Sugar: Soulful Combination of Blues and Gospel Energy
Samantha Martin & Delta Sugar are a Toronto-based collective redefining blues with a bold fusion of soul, gospel, and roots influences. Fronted by two-time Juno nominee Samantha Martin, whose commanding voice and emotional depth have earned her seven Maple Blues Award nominations for Female Vocalist of the Year, the band delivers a rich and dynamic sound that transcends genre boundaries. Their music has achieved international acclaim, with chart-topping soul releases and recognition across blues and country circles, including praise from Rolling Stone. Known for her captivating stage presence, Martin balances raw power with nuanced storytelling, while Delta Sugar’s layered harmonies – what she calls her “co-vocalists” – create a powerful, gospel-tinged vocal blend. Together, they produce an electrifying live experience that is both deeply moving and sonically expansive, cementing their place as one of Canada’s most compelling blues-rooted acts.
Blackburn Brothers: Award-Winning Soul-Blues Legacy Band
The Blackburn Brothers are a Toronto-based band carrying forward a rich musical legacy rooted in soul, funk, and blues. Sons of R&B legend Bobby Dean Blackburn, whose influence on the Toronto music scene spans more than six decades, the group is led by Duane, Brooke, and Cory Blackburn, with contributions from brother Robert and cousin Nathan. Since first appearing on the Lighthouse Blues Festival main stage in 2017, they have risen to national and international prominence. Two-time JUNO Award nominees for Blues Album of the Year, their latest release, SoulFunkn’Blues, earned global acclaim, winning the 2024 Blues Blast Award for Soul Blues Album and securing multiple major nominations. The band also made history with three 2024 American Blues Music Award nominations and a record nine Maple Blues Award nominations. Known for their tight musicianship and vibrant performances, the Blackburn Brothers continue to set the standard for contemporary Canadian blues.
Angelica Jones: Next-Generation Blues with Power and Edge
Angelica Jones is an Ottawa-based blues artist redefining the genre with a bold, modern edge while staying rooted in its raw emotional core. Formerly known as the Angelina Hunter Trio, the band has evolved into a dynamic powerhouse built around Jones’ commanding presence as a vocalist and guitarist. Backed by longtime collaborators, the group delivers a tight, expressive sound shaped by years of shared musical experience. Jones’ performances are marked by versatility and intensity, moving effortlessly from tender, melodic passages to searing guitar-driven moments. With her Stratocaster in hand, she blends soulful vocals with sharp, expressive playing that captures both grit and nuance. Whether creating an intimate atmosphere or unleashing high-voltage energy, Angelica Jones brings a distinctive voice and fearless approach that continues to resonate with audiences and push Canadian blues forward.
Nicole Christian: Versatile Hamilton Roots Artist
Nicole Christian is a Hamilton-based singer-songwriter, flute player, and music educator whose sound blends blues, roots, and soul with an engaging live performance style. She is known for pairing thoughtful songwriting with expressive vocals and instrumental skill, giving her music both warmth and edge. Christian has built a strong presence on the Canadian scene through her own website, active show listings, and frequent performances with Nicole Christian and The Caravan. Her work moves easily between intimate storytelling and full-band blues energy, making her a versatile performer on festival stages and in club settings alike. With a background that includes both education and performance, she brings depth, musicianship, and authenticity to every set. Christian’s style connects classic influences with a modern, personal voice, making her a compelling addition to any blues or roots festival lineup.
Alfie Smith: Hamilton Blues Troubadour with Slide-Guitar Fire
Alfie Smith is a Hamilton-based singer-songwriter, guitarist, and multi-instrumentalist known for his gritty vocals, blues-rooted songwriting, and expressive slide guitar. A longtime fixture on Ontario’s blues, folk, and roots festival circuit, he has built a reputation as a crowd-pleasing live performer with deep local roots and wide musical range. Smith’s 2024 album Every Rome Needs A Nero reinforced his standing as a triple threat, blending eloquent songwriting, strong musicianship, and a powerful voice. His career includes years of performing across the province, plus recognition from the Toronto Blues Society at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis. With a sound shaped by blues, folk, and roots traditions, Smith brings both authenticity and energy to every stage.
Al Lerman: Veteran Blues Multi-Instrumentalist from Havelock
Al Lerman is a veteran Ontario blues artist from Havelock, known for his distinctive blend of singer-songwriter craft, blues tradition, and multi-instrumental skill. He first earned wide recognition as founder and leader of Fathead, the two-time Juno Award-winning band that helped define Canadian blues for more than two decades. As a solo performer, Lerman plays guitar and rack harmonica, bringing a highly personal style and deep roots knowledge to songs drawn from contemporary life and experience. Widely regarded as one of Canada’s top harmonica players, he has earned numerous Maple Blues Award nominations and has built a career that spans more than fifty years in the blues and roots scene. His long-running work as a performer, songwriter, and session musician has made him a respected fixture on stages across Ontario and beyond.
Suzie Vinnick: Award-Winning Roots and Blues Favourite
Suzie Vinnick is a Toronto-based roots, blues, and folk singer-songwriter originally from Saskatoon, known for her rich voice, exceptional guitar and bass playing, and warm, candid stage presence. A three-time Juno nominee, she has won 12 Maple Blues Awards, two Canadian Folk Music Awards, and multiple international songwriting honors, marking her as one of Canada’s most decorated blues artists. Her catalogue includes acclaimed solo releases such as Fall Back Home, Shake The Love Around, and Me ‘n’ Mabel, along with collaborative work in projects like The Marigolds and Betty and the Bobs. Vinnick’s music moves fluidly between blues, folk, gospel, and roots, backed by a career that has made her a fixture on Canadian festival stages and beyond. She brings powerhouse musicianship and emotional honesty to every performance.
Lily Sazz: Acclaimed Keyboardist and Blues-Roots Songwriter
Lily Sazz is a Dundas, Ontario-based keyboardist, singer-songwriter, and longtime fixture in Canada’s blues and roots scene. She spent years as a sought-after bandleader and musical director, including a decade steering the Toronto Blues Society’s Women’s Blues Revue band, while also touring with major Canadian artists such as Rita Chiarelli. Known for her expressive playing, soulful voice, and deep musical instincts, Sazz has built a respected career onstage and in the studio. In 2025, she released her debut solo album, What Just Happened, a deeply personal record shaped by life changes and health challenges. The album featured collaborations with artists including Colin Linden, Harry Manx, and Suzie Vinnick, underscoring her standing among Canada’s top roots musicians. Sazz continues to bring experience, warmth, and emotional depth to every performance, making her a standout voice in contemporary Canadian blues.
Shakey Trill: Raw Blues Duo from Saugeen Shores
Shakey Trill is an original blues/folk duo from Saugeen Shores, Ontario, made up of Mike MacDonald on guitar and vocals and Tyler Pantlin on harmonica and vocals. Their sound is described as gutsy, raw, and down-home, with a classic acoustic blues feel. The duo’s name comes from MacDonald’s childhood nickname and the fast back-and-forth “trill” of harmonica. They released their debut album in 2021 and have been active on the Ontario blues circuit, including appearances connected to Bruce County Blues and Blues Summit events.
The Heartless Saints: A Must-See in Ontario’s Blues Scene
The Heartless Saints are a high‑energy blues‑rock band rooted in Blenheim, within the Chatham‑Kent region of Ontario, where they have built a strong reputation for gritty, groove‑driven live shows. Comprising four seasoned musicians, the group blends classic blues boogie with modern rock and roots, delivering a sound that is both raw and tightly arranged. They helped put the region on the blues map by winning the 2022 “Road to Memphis” Blues Challenge and the Canada South Blues Society challenge, and have been nominated for the Forest City London Music Awards in the Blues category. Regulars at festivals such as the Lighthouse Blues Festival and the Blenheim Cherryfest, they also headline clubs and community events across southwestern Ontario, frequently sharing stages with other Canadian blues acts. Streaming and live‑video clips capture their in‑the‑room intensity, making them a standout live band in the province’s contemporary blues circuit.
Ian Andrews: Ontario’s Blues‑Rock Favourite
Ian Andrews is a Guelph‑based blues and rock‑n‑roll guitarist, singer‑songwriter, and bandleader whose mix of raw electric blues, boogie‑woogie piano, and vintage rock has made him a standout on Ontario’s live‑music circuit. Starting in 2012 with “Ian Andrews & The Smokin’ Scoundrels” in Hamilton, he built a reputation for high‑energy shows featuring original material and covers served with a loose, rootsy feel. His honors include “Blues Recording of the Year” at the Hamilton Music Awards and the Brian Griffith Guitar Bursary, underscoring his skills as both a frontman and an instrumentalist. Today he tours the province as a solo act, with The Smokin’ Scoundrels, and under the “Big Bad Blues Show,” playing clubs and festivals across towns such as Waterloo, Kitchener, London, and Toronto, while channeling the spirit of blues‑rock icons like Little Walter, Freddie King, and Paul Butterfield into his own gritty, crowd‑pleasing sound.
Breakwater Blues Band: Bruce County’s Blues Institution
Breakwater Blues Band is a long‑running roots and blues ensemble rooted in Bruce County, southwestern Ontario, where they have helped anchor the region’s live‑music scene since the late 1960s. Drawing from Texas‑style and Chicago blues as well as classic R&B, the band delivers a gritty, groove‑driven sound that keeps dance floors full at local clubs and festivals. They remain a staple at the Kincardine‑based Bruce County Blues circuit and are regularly featured at the Lighthouse Blues Festival, sharing stages with other Ontario blues acts under the Bruce County Blues umbrella. Though their original lineup has evolved over the decades, Breakwater still performs occasionally, carrying the legacy of the county’s early blues bands and maintaining a loyal following from Kincardine to the surrounding Lake Huron communities.
Nicky T & The Snake Charmers: Hard‑Driving Motor City Blues Heavyweight
Nicky T & The Snake Charmers are a high‑energy blues and rock band fronted by Detroit‑born, Ontario‑connected guitarist and vocalist Nicholas “Nicky T” Tabarias, whose slide‑heavy playing and gritty stage presence have made them a standout on both sides of the Windsor–Detroit corridor. Rooted in Motor City blues and classic Chicago‑style arrangements, the group delivers a tight, groove‑driven mix of originals and traditional covers that pay homage to icons like B.B. King, Bobby “Blue” Bland, Magic Sam, and Nicky T’s mentor Ronnie Earl. Based out of the border region, they regularly headline venues such as the Lion’s Head Tavern and Below the Tracks in Windsor, and appear on festivals like the Lighthouse Blues Festival and dates organized by the Canada South Blues Society in Chatham. Their latest work, including the 2026 album Ain’t Wasting Time, showcases both raucous blues‑rock cuts and soulful, slower numbers, reinforcing their reputation as a contemporary‑edged but deeply traditional blues band that keeps the Motor City spirit alive on Ontario stages.
Nicholas Tobias: Roots‑Rock Storyteller of Ontario’s Blues Circuit
Nicholas Tobias, performing as The Nico Tobias Band, is a roots‑rock and alt‑country singer‑songwriter whose rail‑rattling, outlaw‑tinged sound has carved out a niche on Ontario’s live‑music scene and beyond. Originally from Edmonton but frequently touring the Prairie and Great Lakes region, Tobias brings a dusty, highway‑driven style that braids classic rock swagger with the raw, storytelling heart of Americana and country, making his music feel at home in small‑town bars, festivals, and road‑trip playlists alike. His band’s catalog mixes gritty, foot‑stomping rockers with quieter, more introspective songs, all built on a foundation of lap and pedal steel, ringing guitar, and a vocal tone that sits somewhere between outlaw country and hard‑eyed blues. Tobias has appeared on multi‑stage lineups such as the Lighthouse Blues Festival in Kincardine, where his set offers a roots‑rock departure from pure blues while still feeding the same appetite for live, guitar‑driven storytelling that defines Ontario’s grassroots music culture.
Tim Woodcock: London‑Rooted Blues‑Rock Guitarist and Songwriter
Tim Woodcock is a London, Ontario–based blues and blues‑rock guitarist, bandleader, and songwriter whose raw, guitar‑driven sound has made him a staple of the region’s live‑music and festival circuit. Fronting outfits such as Tim Woodcock & The Thunder Kings, he mixes gritty, shout‑along blues numbers with more soulful, storytelling‑driven material, often tackling John Lee Hooker classics like “Boom Boom” while also performing original songs that showcase his knack for hook‑laden, rootsy melodies. Woodcock has appeared at key regional events such as the Wortley Village Jazz & Blues Festival, the Lighthouse Blues Festival, and “Blues on the Hill” at the Purple Hill Country Music Hall, where his sets blend electric slide work, tight band arrangements, and an easy‑going stage presence that draws in both longtime blues fans and casual listeners. Backed by an experienced band that includes longtime London bassist Jim Corbett and other local players, Woodcock bridges the gap between traditional Ontario blues and modern, high‑energy rock, keeping his music firmly rooted in the province’s working‑class club and festival scene.
Denny Snyder: South Bend‑Born Blues‑Rock Guitarist on the Ontario‑Quebec Circuit
Denny Snyder, widely known as “Southside Denny,” is an American‑born blues‑rock guitarist, singer, and songwriter who has become a fixture on the Ontario and Quebec live‑music scenes. Originally from South Bend, Indiana, Snyder built his reputation in the Chicago blues world before relocating to Canada, where he has spent decades touring festivals, clubs, and cultural venues across the two provinces, blending raw Chicago‑style blues with Southern‑tinged roots rock. Over a career spanning more than four decades, he has released over a dozen independent albums, including the award‑winning Full Circle, which took Album of the Year at the Lys Blues Awards in Québec and helped cement his standing as a hard‑driving blues‑rock guitarist whose tone and phrasing many fans liken to Buddy Guy and Johnny Winter. Snyder’s work includes family‑driven projects such as The Snyders – a roots‑blues trio with his children, Lorrie and Phil Snyder – as well as solo and duo shows that highlight his slide‑guitar work, acoustic storytelling, and deep command of blues form, making him a respected educator and sideman in addition to being a front‑of‑the‑band bandleader.
Henderson O’Connor: Vintage‑Blues Duo of Lap Steel and Juno‑Nominated Songwriting
Henderson O’Connor is a Southern Ontario‑based duo built around the distinct acoustic lap steel guitar of Richard Henderson and the seasoned vocals and songcraft of Juno‑nominated singer‑songwriter Gary O’Connor. Based in the Port Perry/Scugog area, the pair specializes in a retro‑infused blend of early‑rock‑’n’‑roll, roots, and straight‑ahead blues, leaning heavily on lap‑steel textures and tight, vintage‑style arrangements that echo jukebox classics from the 1950s and 1960s. Henderson, an acclaimed acoustic lap steel player and Instrumentalist of the Year in the Durham Region, shapes the band’s sound with edgy slide lines pulled from blues, country, and rockabilly, while O’Connor brings the front‑of‑the‑stage charisma he honed through his 1980s hit “Pay You Back With Interest” and further work writing for major Southern rock acts. The duo regularly plays legions, pubs, festivals, and community events across the Durham region and Southern Ontario, turning well‑loved songs by the likes of Chuck Berry and Willie Dixon into intimate, roots‑driven sets that showcase the lap steel’s ability to breathe new life into classic American styles.
Jellybean Blue: Huron County’s Folk‑Rock‑Pop Fiddle Trio
Jellybean Blue is a live acoustic trio based in Huron County, Ontario, that blends folk, rock, pop, and fiddle‑driven music into a family‑ and community‑friendly stage show. Fronted by violinist and vocalist Capucine “Cappy” Onn, the band mixes classic tunes with modern covers, using classical violin and fiddle lines over acoustic guitar and rhythm to create a bright, danceable sound that fits both small halls and outdoor festivals. Jellybean Blue serves as a regular live‑music draw throughout southwestern Ontario, appearing at events such as the Kincardine OPG stage, Bayfield arts festivals, and community concerts in Goderich and surrounding towns, often sharing bills with other local acts like The Lucky Charms, Alexa Yeo, and Ava Dawe. In addition to gigging, Jellybean Blue runs a music‑forward presence through its website and recordings, positioning itself as a key part of Huron County’s grassroots live‑music ecosystem and a go‑to choice for venues that want approachable, genre‑crossing acoustic entertainment.
Nuclear Vibes: Bruce County’s High‑Energy Blues‑Rock Duo
Nuclear Vibes is a husband‑and‑wife blues‑rock duo from Bruce County, Ontario, fronted by powerhouse vocalist Hannah Faith and driven by Ken’s guitar‑driven arrangements. The pair deliver a high‑voltage live show that blends blues grit with classic‑rock punch and strands of country and soft rock, giving them a wide‑appeal sound across beach‑town bars, festival stages, and Sunday‑matinee bookings from Port Elgin to Owen Sound. Known for both original tracks and spirited covers of songs by female‑fronted rockers like Janis Joplin, Stevie Nicks, and Sass Jordan, the duo has become a staple of the region’s “Sunday Spinoff” and similar matinee series, earning platinum‑level recognition in local community‑voting entertainment polls. Over time Nuclear Vibes has expanded into a full band for larger dates and “Battle of the Bands”‑style events, while still maintaining its core identity as an intimate, love‑driven duo bringing raw, connective, and radio‑ready blues‑rock to Ontario’s Lake Huron corridor.
Josh Ritchie: Ontario’s Story‑Driven Art‑Rock Singer‑Songwriter
Josh Ritchie is an Ontario‑based singer‑songwriter and multi‑instrumentalist whose music blends modern rock, experimental folk, and R&B‑tinged art‑pop, all anchored by lyrical storytelling about identity, social justice, and growing up in small‑town Bruce Peninsula communities. Drawing from his experiences as a BIPOC artist in rural Ontario, he channels themes of inequality, activism, and personal resilience into tightly produced albums and EPs that he often helps shape as producer‑arranger. Ritchie’s live shows mix high‑energy performance with intimate, conversational delivery, and his appearances at festivals like the Ottawa Grassroots Festival and other Ontario stages have cemented his status as an emerging voice in the province’s roots‑adjacent scene.
Steve Metcalf and Blue Grit: Ontario’s Hard‑Driving Blues‑Rock Stalwarts
Steve Metcalf is an Ontario‑based blues‑rock musician, singer, and bandleader best known for fronting the high‑energy band Blue Grit from the Owen Sound/Bruce Peninsula region. As the band’s founding member, lead guitarist, vocalist, and harmonica player, he anchors a sound that mixes raw 1970s‑style blues‑rock with punchy live‑show energy, making Blue Grit a fixture at venues like the Queen’s Bar in Port Elgin and the Bruce, as well as festivals such as the Lighthouse Blues Festival and other Ontario summer‑concert series. In addition to gigging, Metcalf operates Big Rock Studio, where he records and mixes for emerging local artists, reinforcing his role as both a working performer and an audio‑production hub in the local music scene.
Rodney Jewell Band: Ontario’s Motown‑Rooted Blues‑Rock Veterans
Rodney Jewell Band is a long‑standing blues‑rock act from Ontario’s Guelph and Bruce–Grey region, fronted by the veteran guitarist and vocalist “Rockin’” Rod Jewell, whose sound draws from Motown, classic rock, and bar‑room blues. The band has become a familiar presence on the province’s live‑music circuit, appearing at venues such as High Note Bar & Grill in Guelph, the Paisley Blues Festival, and other Southern Ontario clubs and festivals that showcase seasoned blues‑style acts. Over decades on the scene, Jewell has earned a reputation as a mainstay of the local blues community, blending warm, groove‑driven rhythms with straightforward, storytelling‑style vocals that keep longtime fans and new audiences engaged in the dance and drink.
Greg Ritchie Band: An Ontario Gospel‑Infused Blues‑Rock Force
Greg Ritchie Band is a blues‑rock act based along the Lake Huron shoreline near Port Elgin and Saugeen First Nation #29, fronted by guitarist and vocalist Greg Ritchie, whose sound blends classic blues, rock, and rootsy gospel influences. The band’s lineup – featuring Adrian Mitchell on bass and Mike Campbell on drums – brings a high‑energy, dance‑floor‑ready style that draws on the Hammond‑inflected traditions of Jimi Hendrix, Creedence‑style swamp‑rock grooves, and the call‑and‑response cadences of church‑gospel music. Over decades of gigs, including appearances at Ribfest X, Heartwood Concert Hall, and other Ontario live‑music venues, the Greg Ritchie Band has built a reputation as a dependable, groove‑driven engine of the region’s blues‑festival and outdoor‑concert circuit.
Thales Hunter Jazz Trio: Toronto’s Rising Voice in Contemporary Jazz
Thales Hunter Jazz Trio is a young, Toronto‑based jazz group led by guitarist and drummer Thales Hunter, a recipient of the 2024 Mary Alice Stuart Award from JAZZ.FM91 and a fixture on the city’s club circuit. The trio honours Canadian jazz traditions while playing a mix of bebop‑influenced originals, swinging standards, and contemporary jazz repertoire, often performing at Toronto venues like The Rex Hotel and The Emmet Ray. Hunter also works extensively as a sideman with vocalists and other instrumentalists, tours with the family‑collaboration “Between Two Hunters,” and supports the next generation of players through his own Thales Music Tutoring platform.
Bobby Dean Blackburn: Ontario’s R&B‑Blues Pathfinder
Bobby Dean Blackburn (born Robert Blackburn, 1940) is a Toronto‑based Black Canadian blues and R&B legend whose career has helped shape the sound of Ontario’s live‑music scene for over six decades. Emerging in the 1950s Yonge Street club circuit, he led acts such as Bobby Dean & the Gems, headlining the Bluenote and the Zanzibar Tavern while backing visiting American soul and blues artists and mentoring a generation of younger musicians. Known for his deep, soulful vocals and piano‑driven groove, Blackburn toured widely across Ontario and Quebec, later helping to anchor the Bruce‑Peninsula’s Emancipation Festival and earning a star on the Mississauga Music Walk of Fame. His legacy continues through his sons, the Blackburn Brothers, and through his role as a mentor and “finishing‑school” leader for singers including Liberty Silver, cementing him as a foundational figure in Canada’s R&B‑blues tradition.
Alfie Smith & Nicole Christian: Hamilton’s Blues‑Roots Power Duo
Alfie Smith and Nicole Christian are a husband‑and‑wife acoustic blues and roots duo based in Hamilton, Ontario, celebrated for their old‑style bottleneck slide guitar work, rich harmonies, and storyteller songwriting. A prolific troubadour and 12‑time Hamilton Music Awards nominee, Alfie brings decades of crowd‑pleasing performance on the Ontario blues and folk festival circuit, known for his fingerpicking, slide guitar, and deep connection to Gage Park and the city’s East End. Nicole, a multi‑instrumentalist, singer‑songwriter, and music educator, adds flute, keys, and a Delta‑influenced groove to their sound, and has been recognized as a finalist for the Toronto Blues Society’s Women’s Blues Revue. Together they released the acclaimed duo album Come On In My Kitchen and remain staples at events such as Mariposa, Home County, and the Lighthouse Blues Festival, embodying the heart of Ontario’s grassroots blues and roots scene.
Lighthouse Swing Band: Ontario’s Big‑Band Swing Institution
The Lighthouse Swing Band is an 18‑piece big band based in Kincardine, Ontario, dedicated to preserving the sound of the swing and big‑band era across Bruce, Grey, and Huron counties. Formed in 1984 as the brainchild of drummer Mike Palmer, the ensemble features a full brass section, rhythm group, and vocalists, playing classic swing standards alongside waltzes, Latin beats, and jazz. Directed by Al Mullin, the band has become a staple of beach‑pavilion dances, legion‑hall nights, and “concerts in the park,” drawing generations of dancers from small‑town pavilions to festivals in Sauble, Hamilton, Barrie, and beyond. With a reputation for tight, energetic arrangements and crowd‑pleasing songbooks, the Lighthouse Swing Band keeps the spirit of vintage dance‑hall jazz alive along Ontario’s Lake Huron shoreline.
Buy A Ticket to a Milestone Year for the Lighthouse Blues Festival
This year’s Lighthouse Blues Festival wraps into a single, high‑energy celebration how broad, rooted, and contemporary the Ontario blues scene has become.
From Juno‑winning headliners like Crystal Shawanda and the Blackburn Brothers to local standouts such as the Bruce County Allstars, Breakwater Blues Band, and Nuclear Vibes, the lineup spans generations and genres while keeping the blues groove front and center.
Add modern guitar‑slayers like Albert Cummings and Davy Knowles, soul‑driven acts like Samantha Martin and Delta Sugar, and swing‑era holdovers like the Lighthouse Swing Band, and you have a weekend that feels like a living map of Canadian blues history. See them all July 9-12, 2026.
Whether you’re there for the headliners, the hometown heroes, or the surprise discoveries on the side stages, Lighthouse 2026 is a reminder that Kincardine makes for a hell of a stop for Canadian blues music.
Pick up a weekend pass here and buy a ticket to this year’s Lighthouse Blues Festival to see what all the fuss is about!
