Neil James Harnett

Neil James Harnett has enjoyed such highlights as a Juno Nomination, three singles on the Canadian charts, two full length CDs, three videos with national exposure and shared concert billings with Jeff Healey, Chuck Berry and The Doobie Brothers.

In 1988, Neil’s composition, Ain’t Good Lovin’ Enough was recorded by both Diamond in the Rough and Alibi. The Diamond in the Rough release made it to the top ten of the Canadian charts. The success of Ain’t Good Lovin’ Enough and the buzz created by Neil’s performances and growing catalogue of tunes earned him his own deal the following year.

Neil’s debut CD, Times Like These, met with enthusiastic response when it was released on Bruce Allen’s Penta label in the spring of 1989. The title track made it into the Top Ten of the Canadian AC charts as did the first release, That’s What I Need and included a supporting video that was played on Much Music. Neil was also nominated for a Juno Award, as Most Promising Male Vocalist.

National interest in Neil was at a peak when Penta suddenly folded, leaving him entangled in legal and contractual confusion. In mid-1995, finally free of the red tape, Neil entered Greenhouse Studios with some of Vancouver's finest talent and began recording a self-produced follow-up album. Rubber Room Day, received positive reviews and the two supporting videos for Nothing is Changing and Guardian Angel received maximum rotation on CMT.

Tom Harrison from The Province - “...As the title suggests, this is a record that contemplates state of mind and emotion. It is a thought provoking as well as soul-stirring work...”, Tony Montigue from The Georgia Straight - “...Rubber Room Day is a well produced album of music that is firmly in the pop-rock mainstream. Harnett is a fine guitarist and a strong singer...”, Brant Zwicker Station Manager CFBX 92.5 FM Kamloops - “...Neil is one of those rare and talented singer-songwriters who are equal parts of both – first-rate vocalist and composer – and when his tasty guitar playing is added to the mix, it simply does not get any better. Whether performing solo or with a band, Harnett can rock the house, and then turn around and break your heart with but a song...”

After a break from the industry, Neil has returned to his true passion is planning a new release in the near future. His live performances are better than ever, showcasing his trademark soulful delivery with a relaxed audience rapport and the ability to consistently inspire enthusiastic response.
Neil is available in configurations from solo to full band and although his main goal is to play the concert circuit his diverse list of cover tunes also make him suitable for just about any venue or occasion. When performing solo, in concert or otherwise, Neil showcases his guitar and vocals and is capable of delivering an energetic performance without backing tracks. Neil is also available as Little Boy Blues, which performs strictly R&B and Blues.

Whatever configuration you choose, you can be assured of high quality, professional entertainment that is sure to be a crowd favourite. Neil also utilizes a substantial mailing list and website and has been known to fill a room with his following.