Canada’s legendary Downchild Blues Band is calling it quits after 55 years of touring the world.
In a series of posts on its Facebook page this week, the band announced it will be kicking off its farewell tour Oct. 3 at the Arden Theatre in Edmonton.
“As we celebrate our 55th Anniversary this year and 55 years of performing around the world, the time has come to say so long to touring and our loyal fans,” the band wrote.
“At our age, we won’t be able to get to every city in Canada but hopefully, we’ll get close enough for you to come and say farewell! You guys are the best, and we are so grateful for your many years of support, allowing us to do what we love to do….play the BLUES!!”
Founded in 1969 and named for Sonny Boy Williamson’s song “Mr. Downchild,” the band was a key inspiration for the Blues Brothers of Saturday Night Live.
Three of its songs, “I’ve Got Everything I Need (Almost),” “Shot Gun Blues,” and Downchild’s adaptation of “Flip, Flop and Fly” — all from its 1973 album, Straight Up, were featured on the debut Blues Brothers album.
Founding member Donnie “Mr. Downchild Wash” is the only band member to have lasted for Downchild’s entire run. Over the years, more than 50 musicians have come and gone from the line-up, including Parachute Club alumnus Billy Bryans, Grammy nominated bluesman Kenny Neal and Powder Blues Band founder David Woodward.
Other notable alums include keyboardist Jane Vasey, who died of leukemia at 32, and pioneering Canadian blues vocalist Tom Flaim.
The current Downchild line-up consists of Donnie, Gary Kendall, Pat Carey, Chuck Jackson, Tyler Yarema and Jim Casson.
