last bite
singin' the blues
Big Dave McLean shares
his passion for music
with audiences and
young artists.
You were recently appointed into
the Order of Canada. What does it
mean to you? It means a lot. Not
many musicians have been appointed
into the Order of Canada. I am truly
honoured.
What has kept you firmly planted
in Winnipeg all these years? I love
Winnipeg - it's a beautiful place to
be. I’ve been all over the world, but I
love coming home.
What do you love about the blues?
It is the peoples’ music. It’s honest,
and there are many different kinds
of styles. The hardships endured by
the people in the Deep South formed
such a beautiful style of music; it
has captivated the whole world.
Who inspired you? The biggest
influence on me would be John
Hammond who got me started in
1969. I saw him and my jaw hit the
ground.
What does it take to be a blues
artist? You have to feel the music.
That is the most important thing.
What do you love about Winnipeg’s
music scene? Winnipeg is the
melting pot of everything. It has
everything. So many great artists and
styles come out of here.
What do you like about Winnipeg’s
audiences? They can be tough, but
when they truly appreciate your
music you bet they give it up for you!
What are your favourite places to
listen to music? Times Changed
High and Lonesome Club. I’ve been
playing there more than 34 years.
I’ve run the jam sessions for years
and I enjoy it every Sunday.
Big Dave McLean shares
his passion for music with
audiences and young artists.
Photo courtesy of Black Hen Music
44
ciao! / aug/sep / two thousand nineteen
You have experience mentoring
young musicians. What's your
advice for someone wanting to
break into the music scene? Make
sure it's what you want to do in your
heart because it's a tough business.
Put everything into it and stand
behind what you are doing!
What do you like to eat after
performing? If I’m being sensible I
might have a yogurt and fruit, but
other times I’ll have a hamburger.