David Gogo
David Gogo is a renowned blues musician hailing from Nanaimo, British Columbia. Born in 1969, Gogo was raised in a musical family and began playing guitar at the age of five. He was deeply influenced by blues legends such as B.B. King, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Jimi Hendrix, and by the time he was a teenager, he was already a seasoned performer, playing in clubs and festivals across Canada.
In 1991, Gogo released his debut album, “David Gogo,” which earned him critical acclaim and caught the attention of blues fans around the world. He followed up with several more successful albums, including “Skeleton Key,” “Halfway to Memphis,” “Vicksburg Call” and “17 Vultures,” each showcasing his virtuoso guitar playing and soulful vocals.
Over the years, Gogo has shared the stage with numerous legendary musicians, including Johnny Winter, Albert Collins, ZZ Top, Buddy Guy and Bo Diddley. He has also been recognized with several awards and nominations, including six Juno nominations and multiple Maple Blues Awards for Guitarist of the Year and Songwriter of the Year.
Gogo’s music is deeply rooted in the blues tradition, but he also incorporates elements of rock, soul, and funk into his sound. He writes his own originals, covers classics like It’s a Man’s World and Nightlife, adds electric boogie blues to Depeche Mode’s Personal Jesus and Doug & the Slugs Tomcat Prowl while showing a deft R&B touch on Atlanta Rhythm Section’s So Into You and Michael Jackson’s The Way You Make Me Feel. His live performances are renowned for their high energy intensity, with Gogo’s searing guitar solos and powerful vocals captivating audiences around the world whether solo acoustic or with an electric band.
In addition to his music career, Gogo is also an advocate for mental health awareness and has been open about his own struggles with depression and anxiety. He has used his platform to raise awareness and funds for mental health organizations and has been recognized for his contributions with the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal.
David Gogo’s contributions to the Canadian blues scene and his influence on a new generation of musicians make him a true icon of the genre. With his passion, talent, and dedication, he continues to inspire and delight audiences around the world. You can catch him rocking Wicket Hall in the Strathcona Hotel Friday July 16th as a power trio. Tickets on sale now at strathliquor.com, $25 in advance and $30 at the door for his 8 pm show.
