Kenny ’Blues Boss’ Wayne
Kenny “Blues Boss” Wayne is a veteran blues and boogie piano player, raised in New Orleans but a long-time Vancouver resident.
A three-time Juno nominee, and a winner for his second album, Let It Loose, on Electro-Fi, he’s powerfully influenced by Fats Domino and Johnnie Johnson (still remembered as Chuck Berry’s pianist of choice). He also counts pianists Amos Milburn and Bill Doggett as influences, as well as Johnny Otis, the king of the West Coast blues sound of the ‘50s.
A touring musician from his teens onward, Wayne settled in Vancouver some 30 years ago, but is rarely home — thanks to extended tours in Canada, the U.S. and Europe. His next trip to France is set for May, with an extended run in Paris.
His bass-heavy boogie piano work — as well as his original songs — makes for powerful live performances, enhanced by the sartorial splendor of his boldly colored, French custom-tailored stage suits. The new album has been produced by Duke Robillard who also plays guitar on all the tracks. Robillard’s take on Wayne? « Kenny "Blues Boss" Wayne, besides being a monster piano player and all around great guy, is a very imaginative songwriter and soulful singer who captures the essence of old school blues and boogie while simultaneously sounding totally fresh and contemporary. This album really WAS as much fun as it sounds to make and I think you will feel the joy in the music which is 100% Kenny "Blues Boss" Wayne. Enjoy! » Duke Robillard
