Issue 16 - 11 August 2026

Bill Durst receives the 2026 Mel Brown Award

Presented by Peter Beacock, President of the Kitchener Blues Festival

Bill is congratulated by Greg Hambleton

Bill is a Canadian blues guitarist and songwriter. He was one of the founding members of the band Thundermug. Since 1983, he has also released several solo albums. Between 1972 and 1980, Bill recorded five Thundermug albums for Axe Records with bandmates, Joe DeAngelis, Jim Corbett and Ed Pranskus. Their breakthrough single was "Africa" and album "Strikes" in 1972. Bill is also the songwriter or co-writer of 50+ works published by Greg's Belsize Park Music.

Mel Brown

The Mel Brown Award is given at the Kitchener Blues Festival to honor individuals who have made significant contributions to the blues music scene. This award celebrates the legacy of Mel Brown, a prominent blues guitarist who had a lasting impact on the music community.

Past recipients of the Mel Brown Award include Holger Peterson, Matt Minglewood, John Lee and Donnie Walsh.

The Kitchener Blues Festival

A volunteer-driven festival celebrating blues music in downtown Kitchener for 26 years. Friday through Sunday in early August brings 35+ free acts across four stages, plus a Thursday night fundraising concert featuring Bill Durst, Sass Jordan, and The Fabulous Thunderbirds. Family-friendly, community-focused, and supported by local businesses and the City of Kitchener.

Axe Records CD's

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