View on Zencastr
Spencer Evans is a working musician in Kingston, Ontario. He joins Mark and Joe to discuss the influence that Ray Charles had on him as piano player and entertainer, as well as the impact that Charles had on the history of music in America and the world.
Spencer is an old pal of Mark’s, back from their days at Queen’s University (in Kingston, ON), when they were both members of the cabaret group, Queen’s Players.
“I know for a fact that Spencer can play the hell out of a Ray Charles song. And sing the hell out of it too!” Mark says of Spencer’s choice of musical pick.
“He embodies everything that music is to me. The passion, the artistry, the individuality, the fighting against chaos,” Spencer says. He talks about how many facts of Ray Charles’ early life were stacked against him, yet did not prevent him from becoming an incredibly influential figure in American music.
Spencer spent his childhood surrounded by classical music and Gilbert and Sullivan records; his introduction to the soulful singing and music of Ray Charles unlocked something in him.
“I can sit behind a piano and feel a connection to him,” Spencer says.
The trio have an engaging and deep conversation, filled with humor and laughter, about Spencer’s musical journey, the history of music, and Spencer’s son, who is also a gifted musician.
Support Our Guest
Spencer Evans has done just about every kind of musical performing job that could be done––live shows, recordings, television, movies, and so much more––and he’s been doing it for 35 years.
The Picton native has made a career as a professional musician, based in Kingston Ontario.
Spencer plays piano, clarinet, accordion, sings, dances, and he can play in pretty much any musical genre, with some of his favorites being jazz, blues, funk and reggae.
He’s recorded and toured with musicians such as The Cowboy Junkies, Sarah Harmer, and Pat Temple. He’s performed with the likes of Jeff Healey, Willie P. Bennett, and Dan Aykroyd.
If you’re lucky enough to be in Kingston, Ontario, you can catch Spencer performing with Mourning Doves (Classic Jazz and Originals), Ghetto Express (Funk and Soul), the Goat Steppers (New Orleans street parade Jazz), and he’s a regular at The Toucan.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.