The Southside Shuffle began with humble roots in 1999. Event founder and artistic director Chuck Jackson (Downchild Blues Band) had only two bands in the inaugural line up. From there it grew exponentially. Now there are more than 140 acts over three days entertaining in the park, in the clubs and on the streets of Port Credit.

This year there was abundance of events in the newly re-developed Memorial Park including the massive Main Stage for the ticketed events as well as the Southstage and de'Eyre Square for free music. There was an excellent Vendor Village, a food court and, of course, a beer garden. There was also an plethora of live entertainment in the nearby restaurants, pubs, coffee houses, clubs and outdoor cafes of Port Credit. At times it was hard to decide where I wanted to be and who I needed to hear.

For a number of years, the Shuffle has been one of my "must see" events of the year. If you've never been, be sure to put it on your calendar for next year. The Street Shuffle alone attracts more than 35,000 people on Lakeshore Road creating a Mardi-Gras atmosphere throughout the village of Port Credit.

The headliners this year included Dr. Hook, Ronnie Hawkins (the Hawk), Elvin Bishop (of Paul Butterfield fame) and the incomparable Johnny Winter, still going after all these years, although maybe not so "sound".

The term "headliner" was really a misnomer as many of the supported acts are really prime acts in their own right. There was Mark Hummell's Harp Blow-Out with Mark Harman, Billy Branch and our own Steve Mariner (filling in for Magic Dick) as well as Award winning Monkey Junk from Ottawa with Mariner again along with Tony D and Mat Sobb. And don't forget Watermelon Slim & the Workman. If you've never seen Watermelon Slim you are in for an entertaining treat and some great blues. Also staring were the Downchild Blues Band (the quintessential Canadian Blues band) and the ever popular Raoul & the Big Time. All bands that I would happily pay to see as headliners.

Also on the main stage this year was Mark "Bird" Stafford's Junior Jam. Birdy has been working with a number of young musicians over the year and this was an opportunity to showcase their talents. Some very promising talent and a great venue for these kids to show off their stuff. Kudos to Mark for the dedication to work with these kids. I'm the parent of two musicians and know only too well what proper direction means in the musical development of young people. A personal "High Five" to you Mark.

The highlight of the side stages was the Toronto Blues Society's Talent Search winners, the 24th Street Wailers. Five young local musicians with some fabulous talent. I expect to hear much more form these "kids". Back for a second year was Mississippi blues man Bill Perry. A fine blues guitarist accompanied by his son, Bill Jr. on the keys. A fine array of southern blues sponsored by the Mississippi Tourist Board.

The street festival was, as always, amazing. Non stop music within a three block radius. Here you can hear anything from Stevie Ray Vaughan's Texas shuffle to down in the trenches Delta Blues and everything in between. Here you could check out bands like Larry Kurts and Friends, Gary Kendall Band, Ronnie Douglas with Roly Platt, Mr. Rick & the Biscuits, Jay Douglas, Harrison Kennedy, Danny Marks, David Rotundo, The Bluesers, and the list goes on & on. If you like music, there was never a silent moment. And I never did get into any of the clubs. I never thought there would ever be TOO MANY Blues Bands to see!

The Southside Shuffle Blues & Jazz Festival is a non profit festival organization. Much of the "profits" are redirected to various charities. Based on statistics provided by Festival, Events Ontario, the estimated economic

impact on the local economy is more than $5,000,000. And it all started with only TWO bands. Chuck, you've done a great thing here.

For more information about the Southside Shuffle, visit their web site at www.southsideshuffle.com . Looking forward to seeing you there next year.

Listening to live music is a privilege, get out and see a local band this weekend.

Larry "Dawk" McCarthy- www.dawk.ca

All photos copyright Larry "Dawk" McCarthy.