Anybody who grew up listening to rock ‘n’ roll in Canada would be hard put not to find something of interest, if only for nostalgia’s sake, in Peter Goddard’s and Philip Kamin’s book
“Shakin’ All Over”…..the rock ‘n’ roll years in Canada that was published in 1989 by McGraw-Hill Ryerson Limited (Toronto/Montreal).
What did Little Caesar and the Consuls, since 1956 have in common with a number of bands mentioned in Goddard’s book?
For those who remember the sounds of Toronto in the 50’s, 60’s, and 70’s this is definitely a blast from the past, only to mention a few of the Toronto bands. 1956 was the year The Consuls came on the scene around the same time as Al Hepburn & the Hound Dogs. The “Sound of Toronto” and the city was alive with rock ‘n’ roll, rhythm and blues. Lineups to get in to see these bands at The Friars Tavern, Le Coq d’Or, the Hawk’s Nest and others…….the heart and soul of Yonge Street’s music strip.
The Ugly Ducklings
The Paupers
Mandala (formerly The Five Rogues)
The Majestics featuring Shawn and Jay Jackson
Ritchie Knight and the MidKnights
Robbie Lane and the Disciples
Jon and Lee and the Checkmates
The Hawks
When you are a musician, you require the “tools of the trade”…..instruments.
At the same time the city was bursting with live music. Long and McQuade music store opened in 1956. Little Caesar and the Consuls were honoured to perform in 2006 for their 50th anniversary at the Pheonix Concert Hall along with Lighthouse. Another highlight for Caesar was performing at Nathan Phillips Square for CHUM Radio’s 50th anniversary the same year.
But we must not forget that they all had something in common…..
PROUDLY CANADIAN
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