Mike Kennedy

"Mike grew up in Powell River, BC, and played with many, many musicians and bands there: Crystal Ship, Mike Kennedy Blues Band, and Frogge were well-known Powell River bands in the early 70's. In 1972, Mike moved to Cobble Hill and formed the band the Shameless Rockers: Mike Kennedy - lead guitar and vocals, Lenny Nelson (RIP) - rhythm guitar and vocals, Doug Saunders - bass, and Ron Campbell - drums and vocals. The Shameless Rockers played many times in Victoria, sometimes at Club Tango, often at the UVic SUB Pub. We would often play a regular 9 to 1 gig at UVic, then pack up our gear and do another 2 hours downtown at Reggie's Club. Mike was primarily a guitarist, but also played trumpet, blues harp,keyboards, and lap steel. He was a great bluesman, and in recent years also became passionate about vintage Country. By the mid-70's, Mike was back in Powell River. Bands he played in during this time included Peak, New Directions, and the River City Band. Mike eventually moved to Edmonton, where he played with the Twin Creek Band, and for eight years with Characters. His kind and gentle ways, his dry wit, his great musicianship and ability to connect deeply with an audienc... more...