Pioneer Grooves

Episode Notes Clement Walker talks about growing up in St. Peter, Barbados, coming to Canada in the 1970s, as well as his musical influences and experiences from a young age. He also details his experiences with performing on stage and his favourite hymns and performances he's done.

Episode Notes Alan Prater talks about celebrity culture, growing up with music in Florida, playing for a marching band and learning new instruments, doing shows in Montreal, across Quebec and Ontario and around the world. He shares his thoughts about racism, his philosophy on music, spirituality, and his love for performing around the world to this day.

Episode Notes Vernon "Maytone" Buckley talks with host Pat Dillon about growing up in May Pen, Jamaica, leaving school for music, signing with GG Records, and falling in love with Canada. He talks about production, touring and performing, and writing and details experiences with fans, raising his kids, and living in Montreal.

Episode Notes Nancy speaks with Pat about her ancestor's roots as migrants to Nova Scotia, being Portia White's niece, and her experience with music in her family. The two discuss Nancy's experience studying at the University of Toronto for social work, marriage, and experiences with Expo 67. The Sir George Williams' Affair and musician Eileen Bourne are also discussed extensively in this illumina...

Episode Notes Your host Pat speaks with an old friend, Jah Cutta about his childhood and early beginnings as an artist, singer, and entertainer. Often called Canada’s King of Reggae, Cutta discusses his mother, his family, attending LaSalle High School, and his experience with his own lyrics vs. performing lyrics created by others. He goes in depth about artists in reggae, becoming a senior citize...

Episode Notes Pete speaks with host Pat Dillon-Moore about his roots in Saint Lucia and learning to play genres such as Soul and Calypso. He discusses the impacts of moving abroad to New York, England and Montreal, as well as racism in Europe and cultural differences between the cities he has lived in. The lessons he has learned from the last 60 years is a major theme in the interview, especially...

On a snowy afternoon, we had the privilege of spending hours with the legendary Oliver Jones in his home. He played music and shared captivating stories of 90 years of a wonderful life. Lovingly known as Ollie, he took us on a journey through his youth in Little Burgundy, with icons like Oscar Peterson and Daisy Sweeney, and gave us a glimpse into the dizzying heights of his remarkable career. We’...

One of the most important aspects of a legacy that an artist can have and leave is the artwork. We at Pioneer Grooves feel privileged to have been part of the creative process with the members of the original Exponians. To be working and creating alongside the descendants of the original musicians as well as the living members was extraordinary. The offerings include two pieces, The Age of Aquariu...

What is the legacy and future of the steelpan?

The Exponians discuss cultural differences experiences at Expo '67.

The Exponians take a trip to Expo '67.

From 1955 when little boys fall in love with the drums.

57 years of friendship culminates in a look back in time. Featuring the music of the Exponians recorded just after Expo '67.

57 years of friendship culminates in a look back in time. Featuring the music of the Exponians recorded just after Expo '67.