Canoe-FM Blues DJ Patrick Monaghan Selected As Blues Booster of the Year

Toronto Blues Society Tips Hat To Haliburton Broadcaster at Maple Blues Awards

Haliburton resident and Canadian blues promoter/DJ Patrick Monaghan has been named Blues Booster of the Year by the board of directors of Toronto Blues Society. Monaghan, who has for over 40 years immersed himself in the music scene as a fan, researcher, promoter and radio host is well known as one of the biggest supporters of Canadian blues musicians through his travels and on his radio show “The Buckslide Blues Cruise” on Canoe-FM.

Derek Andrews, President of Toronto Blues Society had this to say “A champion enthusiast like few others, Patrick Monaghan is a classic Blues Booster. Canoe FM is lucky to have Patrick as an advocate, as are all blues musicians who benefit from his passion.”

In addition to his radio programming, Monaghan is the President of the newly formed Highlands Buckslide Blues Society, has volunteered as Artistic Director for the Monarchs & Music Blues Festival in Haliburton, followed by becoming the Assistant Artistic Director for the Stonebridge Wasaga Beach Blues Festival, talent buyer for McKeck's Tavern in Haliburton, and Mulligan's in Minden, Ontario.

“I would like to thank the Toronto Blues Society for choosing me for this prestigious award.

I am honoured and thrilled to receive the Blues Booster of the Year Award,” said Monaghan. “I would also like to thank my peers, colleagues and the blues community for their support. Many kind and helpful people have helped me along the way. About four years ago, I was diagnosed with a serious illness, again many members of the blues community stepped up to the plate ready to help in any way that they could. I am very grateful for their efforts. I consider my job as "Keeping The Blues Alive" but the last few years the blues have been keeping me alive!”

Patrick Monaghan will receive the Blues Booster of the Year award at the 26th annual Maple Blues Awards gala on January 30th, 2023 at Koerner Hall in Toronto.