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DIANA BRAITHWAITE & CHRIS WHITELEY

www.braithwaiteandwhiteley.com

As the revered jazz and blues bible DOWN BEAT MAGAZINE said about Diana Braithwaite and Chris Whiteley “It’s a rare and good thing when two talented performers join forces.”  Audiences, critics, and blues lovers all over North America and Europe seem to agree.

Although they met years ago, and had worked together on the Canadian blues scene, it wasn’t until 2004 that Chris Whiteley and Diana Braithwaite decided to compose, record and tour together.  Their first CD collaboration MORNING SUN, garnered rave reviews, extensive air play, and led to multiple Canadian MAPLE BLUES AWARD nominations, including Album of the year, and Acoustic Act of the year.

They have since toured North America and Europe appearing at Festivals and concerts, as well as numerous radio and television appearances.  Another highlight was a successful tour of Art Centers in the U.K.

Diana Braithwaite was dubbed a ”national treasure” by Bluz FM radio host Danny Marks.  Toronto born and raised, her ancestors traveled to Canada from the southern United States, via the Underground Railroad.  A gifted and captivating performer, Diana was chosen by Sarah Mclachlan to open Lilith Fair at the Molson Amphitheatre, before the 18,000 in attendance.  Her talent, and authentic blues shows have led her into the company of such stalwarts as Mel Brown, Albert Collins, John Lee Hooker and Jeff Healey.  Appearances at shows in North America, U.K. and Europe led to her reputation as a world class blues singer.

Kansas born Whiteley has had an extensive career on the blues scene.  As a teen age performer, he met blues legend Lonnie Johnson, who taught and encouraged him.  During the late 70’s Whiteley toured and recorded with Leon Redbone, appearing with him on Saturday Night Live.  He also met a great mentor in legendary Chicago piano player Blind John Davis, who had been the house piano player at Bluebird Records, Whiteley toured and recorded with Davis, as well as building a solid reputation as a multi-instrumental session player and solo artist, leading to 4 Canadian Maple Blues Awards, and Jazz Report Magazine Blues Album of the Year.

Together, Braithwaite and Whiteley continue to expand their horizons, and please audiences internationally.  Giving back to the community, they performed their original presentation about the Underground Railroad for over 14,000 students across Canada this year.  A steady force quickly gaining popularity and growing demand on today’s blues scene, there is a lengthy tour of Europe, Russia and the U.K. just ahead, along with the release of their new Electro-Fi CD NIGHT BIRD BLUES.